MMA News

Author: Andrew Ravens

  • Arman Tsarukyan Breaks Down ’50-50′ Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight

    Arman Tsarukyan Breaks Down ’50-50′ Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight

    The lightweight division is buzzing with excitement as Islam Makhachev holds the championship, with several contenders eager for a title shot. Amid this competitive landscape, Arman Tsarukyan has shared his thoughts on a potential showdown between Makhachev and former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria.

    Tsarukyan, who was originally slated to challenge Makhachev at UFC 311 before a back injury forced him out, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. Weighing in on the potential matchup, he sees it as a close contest, acknowledging Topuria’s striking prowess while questioning his ability to withstand Makhachev’s relentless grappling.

    “It’s a tough fight,” Arman Tsarukyan told The Schmo. “Ilia, he is a better striker; good boxing. I don’t know—like, he’s never fought with guys who can wrestle very well like Islam, so we will see. It is a 50-50 fight.”

    The intrigue of this matchup lies in the stylistic clash between Topuria’s striking power and Makhachev’s elite grappling. While Topuria’s boxing has been a dominant weapon, Makhachev’s wrestling follows the well-established blueprint of Khabib Nurmagomedov. Having faced Makhachev himself, Tsarukyan offers valuable insight into the champion’s approach, making his analysis all the more compelling.

  • UFC Commentator ‘Pissed Off’ By Alex Pereira’s ‘Lazy’ UFC 313 Performance

    UFC Commentator ‘Pissed Off’ By Alex Pereira’s ‘Lazy’ UFC 313 Performance

    Alex Pereira’s ascent to light heavyweight dominance — marked by five straight wins, four knockout title fights, and victories over former champions — had built an aura of invincibility.

    At UFC 313, however, Magomed Ankalaev dismantled that perception, ending Pereira’s reign in a decisive five-round encounter.

    While the fight remained competitive, Pereira appeared uncharacteristically passive, often yielding ground to Ankalaev’s relentless pressure and cage control.

    UFC color commentator Michael Bisping discussed Pereira’s performance on the Believe You Me podcast, with fellow analyst Paul Felder voicing strong criticism. “The Irish Dragon” called out Pereira for what he perceived as a lack of urgency.

    “He never really opened up,” Felder said of Alex Pereira. “I was getting — I don’t wanna say mad, I’m not his coach, I’m not a training partner — but as a fan of the guy and somebody that I like to see perform, I was p*ssed off, dude.

    “I agree that it was a bit lazy and one-sided on his part for a guy that’s got dynamite and apparently rocks in those hands,” Felder continued. “He never let them go. That’s just lazy.”

  • Matt Brown: UFC ‘Overplayed Their Cards’ With Alex Pereira Hype

    Matt Brown: UFC ‘Overplayed Their Cards’ With Alex Pereira Hype

    Alex Pereira’s light heavyweight journey, marked by five consecutive wins, four title fight knockouts, and victories over multiple former champions, had elevated him to another-level status. However, at UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev ended the Brazilian’s reign, outpointing him in a five-round main event.

    Despite the competitive nature of the fight, Pereira appeared hesitant at times, spending much of the bout under Ankalaev’s pressure and control. The Dagestani strategically avoided takedowns while maintaining control, exposing vulnerabilities in “Poatan’s” previously impenetrable aura at 205 pounds.

    While the loss is a setback, it doesn’t mean Alex Pereira has been fully figured out. Instead, Ankalaev’s calculated approach highlighted areas for the former champion to address, suggesting that his story is far from over.

    “I don’t think exposed is the right word, but I think it humanized him,” UFC legend Matt Brown said of Alex Pereira on the latest episode of MMA Fighting’s The Fighter vs. The Writer. “Because he was living off all this hype. The UFC is masterful at hyping guys up. I think all of us — it’s hard for anybody, even astute followers of the game like me or you or fighters that understand all the intricacies — it’s hard for us to ignore the amount of hype people put into him. They do this all the time.

    “They did it with Conor [McGregor], they did it with Ronda [Rousey], they do it with Alex. It’s a constant thing. Jon Jones is the only guy that’s kind of lived up to that, and I say kind of because he lost to [Dominick] Reyes. He had some close fights, but he’s kind of the only guy who really just lived up to that hype and not lost,” Brown continued. “(Alex Pereira’s) still a great fighter. He’s still everything we thought he was, but the UFC kind of overplayed their cards.”

    Pereira’s rapid rise through the light heavyweight division has sometimes overshadowed the challenges he faced earlier in his UFC tenure.

    While he has been dominant in his title fights at 205 pounds, his knockout loss to Israel Adesanya before moving up in weight serves as a reminder of his past struggles.

  • ESPN’s Technical Issues For UFC 313 ‘On Purpose’, Claims Former Fighter

    UFC 313 experienced significant technical issues with ESPN+’s streaming service, which caused widespread frustration among fans and reportedly angered UFC leadership. The problems were particularly disruptive at the start of the main card.

    ESPN acknowledged a “technical issue” that affected PPV purchases and later offered a free event replay for ESPN+ subscribers. UFC CEO Dana White also addressed the situation, noting that there were “a lot of pissed-off people.”

    Former UFC fighter Brendan Schaub weighed in on the controversy during the latest episode of The Schaub Show, suggesting that the disruption may have been intentional.

    “Big Brown” pointed to ongoing negotiations between ESPN and the MMA leader over media rights as a possible motive, arguing that ESPN could use the issue as leverage in talks.

    “The whole ESPN+ PPV not working — they’re in negotiations right now. If you think that wasn’t on purpose, you’re out of your mind,” Schaub said. “That is ESPN, who doesn’t give a flying f*ck about UFC really — they’re in turmoil. But if you don’t think that’s a flex by them — I’ve never had issues.

    “All of a sudden, issues just pop up during negotiation rights? That is somebody going, ‘Oh really, you want to play hardball? This is what your numbers will look like without us.’ That’s what I think with a tinfoil hat on,” Schaub continued. “I’ve never had issues, and all of a sudden, half the f*cking world has issues? That’s weird.

  • Former UFC Fighter On Justin Gaethje’s Unique Style: ‘His Kicks Look Like Trash’

    Former UFC Fighter On Justin Gaethje’s Unique Style: ‘His Kicks Look Like Trash’

    Josh Thomson has offered an honest assessment of Justin Gaethje and his unique fighting style following the former interim UFC lightweight champion’s latest victory.

    Gaethje was originally scheduled to face Dan Hooker at UFC 313 on March 8 but the Kiwi fan favorite withdrew due to a hand injury. Rafael Fiziev stepped in for a rematch, and Gaethje went on to defeat him by unanimous decision, earning yet another Fight of the Night award.

    Speaking on the Weighing In podcast, Thomson highlighted how Gaethje’s striking differs from traditional techniques, emphasizing that he does not conform to conventional boxing or kickboxing styles. He also critiqued Gaethje’s leg kicks, despite their well-documented effectiveness.

    “Justin Gaethje is not a striker like any other striker we’ve seen,” Thomson said. “Not so much in terms of how he fights—it’s really about how he moves his body. He’s not a traditional boxer or kickboxer or any of those styles.

    “Even his kicks — look how hard they are. Fighters have told everyone how hard he kicks, but his leg kicks look like trash,” Thomson continued. “You see him, and you’re like, it’s a weird kick. Like, it just looks weird, but everybody, everybody says they’re so painful.”

  • Dana White Responds To Kash Patel’s Push For UFC-FBI Partnership

    Dana White Responds To Kash Patel’s Push For UFC-FBI Partnership

    Dana White has reacted after newly appointed FBI Director Kash Patel discussed how he is considering making MMA training a mandatory requirement for agents, an initiative that has received support from at least one former agent.

    This idea is part of Patel’s broader agenda, which includes aligning the bureau with the Trump administration’s priorities and enhancing the physical fitness of FBI personnel.

    In addition to the MMA training regimen, Patel is reportedly focused on removing agents who do not align with the administration’s goals. The focus on physical fitness, particularly through MMA, is seen as a way to ensure agents are prepared for the physical demands of their roles.

    Jody Weis, a former FBI special agent in charge and former superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, has publicly backed the idea. He believes it would be a beneficial addition to agent training.

    Patel was in attendance at UFC 313 on Saturday, where he spoke with UFC CEO Dana White about a possible collaboration. White later addressed the conversation, indicating that Patel is serious about the initiative.

    “Well, after he (Patel) said that, my phone blew up,” Dana White said. “You know, everybody wants to be the trainers to the FBI now. … But he’s dead serious about that. I talked to him about it tonight. Yeah, he’s dead serious. So, we’ll see. We’ll see how that starts to come together.”

  • Watch Adesanya React To Magomed Ankalaev Nearly KO’ing Alex Pereira At UFC 313

    Watch Adesanya React To Magomed Ankalaev Nearly KO’ing Alex Pereira At UFC 313

    Israel Adesanya, a close observer of UFC 313 due to his storied rivalry-turned-friendship with Alex Pereira, strongly contested the judges’ scoring in “Poatan’s” defeat to Magomed Ankalaev.

    Pereira’s unanimous decision loss to Ankalaev prompted Adesanya to share his reaction on his YouTube channel. His main point of contention was the 49-46 scorecard, which he dismissed as “stupid,” while also expressing his continued passion for the sport.

    Adesanya’s scoring differed significantly from the official verdict by the judges. He believed the fight was tied 1-1 after the first two rounds, then awarded rounds three and five to Pereira, giving him a 3-2 edge overall. This discrepancy underscored his disagreement with the judges’ decision.

    “I had Alex winning, but I’m not sure,” Adesanya said of the Brazilian’s defeat to Magomed Ankalaev. “I’d have to watch it again and score the fight properly. Round two might have played a factor just because he dropped him, but then holding against the fence — I don’t really remember him getting any takedowns.

    “It was a competitive fight, back-and-forth,” Adesanya added. “They’re both going to level up, and I’m sure he’s going to get a rematch. Spin the block.”

    Given the controversial scoring and the close nature of the fight, Israel Adesanya believes an immediate rematch between Pereira and Ankalaev is a strong possibility. He pointed to Pereira’s past willingness to step in on short notice and headline major UFC events, such as UFC 300 and UFC 303, as a factor that could influence the UFC to grant him a second chance.

  • Top UFC Lightweight Appears To Leak Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight

    Top UFC Lightweight Appears To Leak Dustin Poirier’s Retirement Fight

    Beneil Dariush has seemingly heard something about Dustin Poirier’s spectacular farewell to his UFC career.

    Poirier, who last fought in a title bout against Islam Makhachev at UFC 302, had been contemplating retirement in the aftermath of his latest setback but recently confirmed his intention to return for one final fight.

    With 40 professional bouts under his belt, Poirier has hinted at a set date and an “incredible” location for his farewell appearance, likely being in his home state of Louisiana.

    However, he has remained secretive about his opponent, revealing only that it will be a “legends only” matchup.

    And the bout Dariush suggested is in the works during a recent appearance on Submission Radio would certainly fit that billing.

    “Right now, my understanding is Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway are going to fight,” Dariush said. “I don’t know if it’s 100 percent sealed and done, but that’s what I am hearing.”

    Holloway, who last fought in October, is looking to rebound from his first career knockout loss against Ilia Topuria. Despite that setback, he remains the reigning BMF champion, a symbolic title he claimed with a stunning knockout victory over Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 in April 2024.

    In their initial encounter at UFC 143 in January 2012, a young Holloway, making his UFC debut at just 20 years old, faced a tough introduction to the octagon. His more experienced opponent, holding an 11-1 record, quickly secured a submission victory, highlighting the significant experience gap between the two fighters.

  • Alex Pereira Addresses ‘Boring Style’ That Led To UFC 313 Loss

    Alex Pereira Addresses ‘Boring Style’ That Led To UFC 313 Loss

    Alex Pereira’s post-fight demeanor at UFC 313 reflected his disappointment after losing the light heavyweight title to Magomed Ankalaev in a five-round decision.

    Known for his knockout power and exciting fights, Pereira struggled to find his rhythm against Ankalaev’s pressure. 

    “Poatan’s” offensive output was limited in the fight. Aside from his last-round surge, there were few notable moments for him. The most significant strike of the night came from Ankalaev — a powerful left hook in the second round that visibly hurt Pereira.

    Ankalaev’s constant forward pressure and prolonged cage control during the championship rounds further compounded the Brazilian’s struggles. Ultimately, the judges awarded Ankalaev a unanimous decision victory with scores of 49-46, 48-47, and 48-47, crowning him the new UFC light heavyweight champion.

    “I knew it would be a war,” Alex Pereira said during his post-fight interview. “Every fight of mine is a war. He put some pressure in the second round. I felt some of his strikes, but putting me up against the cage, he didn’t really do anything. We followed our strategy. We know that he puts people against the fence, and he plays that game.

    “Giving him the win with a game plan like that kind of incentivizes people to do that,” he continued. “People might say it’s a boring style, but when a guy gets a win doing that, it kind of makes people want to do that, too. I hurt him against the fence — the only difference is I was the one against the fence.”

  • Justin Gaethje Says One Matchup Definitely Off The Table After UFC 313 Win

    Justin Gaethje Says One Matchup Definitely Off The Table After UFC 313 Win

    Despite his past title failures, Justin Gaethje remains determined to capture the UFC lightweight championship.

    His recent victory over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313 has reignited his hopes of reclaiming the title, currently held by Islam Makhachev.

    Gaethje, bouncing back from a knockout loss to Max Holloway, expressed his interest in facing the Dagestani post-fight. While he acknowledges that his second win over Fiziev may not guarantee him a title shot next, “The Highlight” recognizes its positive impact on his position in the division.

    His recent record showcases a strong run, with three wins in his last four fights, including decision victories over Fiziev and a knockout of Dustin Poirier that earned him the BMF title. His only loss in that span came against Holloway at UFC 300.

    “I want to fight for the belt, obviously,” Justin Gaethje said at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference. “That’s a much different matchup than the one I just had. They tried to give me a doughnut. I took a bite, but I’ve got to get back to running if I’m going to fight Makhachev.”

    Following his UFC 313 victory, Gaethje is weighing his options for his next fight. One potential matchup is off the table: a third bout against Poirier.

    “No, I’ve stated many times that I don’t think either one of our families deserves that,” Gaethje said. “We’re 1-1. I’m OK with it. If he’s OK with it, then no. I think we’re contenders, but we need to beat other people. If I beat him, I don’t think either one of us would be considered a contender.”

  • Magomed Ankalaev: Alex Pereira Was ‘Running For 20 Minutes’ In UFC 313 Title Fight

    Magomed Ankalaev: Alex Pereira Was ‘Running For 20 Minutes’ In UFC 313 Title Fight

    Magomed Ankalaev has addressed criticism surrounding the perceived lack of excitement in his UFC 313 main event victory over Alex Pereira, placing the blame on his opponent.

    Ankalaev’s unanimous decision win, which secured him the UFC light heavyweight championship, was notably less explosive than Pereira’s previous title fights, drawing criticism from both fans and fellow fighters.

    During the post-fight press conference, the Dagestani defended his strategic approach, arguing that Pereira’s reluctance to engage was the primary reason for the fight’s subdued nature. The judges scored the closely contested bout 48-47, 48-47, and 49-46 in Ankalaev’s favor. However, some people thought otherwise.

    Despite the close scores and differing opinions, the new champ remained firm that the outcome was never in doubt while speaking at the post-fight press conference. He maintained that Pereira’s hesitancy to engage was the reason for the fight’s lack of action, and therefore, the criticism was unwarranted.

    “It was very different from what we envisioned because, as you know, usually Pereira hunts for the finish,” Magomed Ankalaev said via a Russian translator. “He moves forward, he tries to hunt down his opponents for the finish. Here, it was very different, as you can see. He was running away from me, he wasn’t letting me work, and he himself wasn’t really working much, so you saw the way it played out.

    “I was confident. I kept on moving forward, I kept pressuring him, and he kept running away from me. For 20 minutes, this guy was running away from me. Then I heard at the end of the fight he was saying that he wasn’t sure why the victory was given to me. Who’s supposed to be given the victory? I’ve been pressuring him the entire time, he was running for 20 minutes, and then he’s wondering who’s supposed to get the victory? Listen, I’m happy for a rematch if he wants one. But maybe in the rematch, he can fight for real and not just run away the entire time.”

  • Anik Ponders Division Change For Alex Pereira After UFC 313 — And It’s Not Heavyweight

    Anik Ponders Division Change For Alex Pereira After UFC 313 — And It’s Not Heavyweight

    At UFC 313, Alex Pereira faces a pivotal moment in his MMA career as he defends his light heavyweight title against the formidable Magomed Ankalaev.

    This matchup is widely considered the toughest test of Pereira’s stint at 205 pounds, sparking debate about his ability to overcome a highly skilled contender.

    Despite the challenge, Pereira’s devastating power and striking precision always make victory a possibility. And should that be the case, beyond this weekend’s fight, speculation continues to swirl about the future of “Poatan.”

    Jon Anik, a leading voice in commentary for the UFC, has presented intriguing possibilities for Pereira’s next move.

    One notable suggestion is a potential return to the middleweight division, where Alex Pereira previously held the championship. This scenario could set up exciting matchups and compelling narratives for the Brazilian fighter.

    “Alex Pereira can still make middleweight, and he wants to fight Dricus du Plessis,” Anik said. “He did not defend the UFC middleweight championship. Of all the accolades for the future UFC Hall of Famer Alex ‘Poatan’ Pereira, he never defended the middleweight championship, and if you think for a second that he doesn’t have an appetite — no pun intended — to go back down to 185 (pounds), you’re absolutely crazy.

    “If the calendar doesn’t align for him to challenge Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall in the heavyweight division, I don’t think he’s going to stick around at 205 to fight Bogdan Guskov, even though you and I f*cking love the guy. He’s probably going to try to go down to 185 and fight Dricus Du Plessis.”

  • UFC 313 Fighter Hopes ‘Miracle’ Allows Him To Break Jon Jones Record

    UFC 313 Fighter Hopes ‘Miracle’ Allows Him To Break Jon Jones Record

    Jon Jones’ early UFC career is particularly notable for making history as the youngest champion in the promotion’s history. While unlikely, one rising fighter set to see action at UFC 313 still holds slim hopes of breaking that record.

    Jones claimed the light heavyweight title at UFC 128 on March 19, 2011, when he defeated Maurício “Shogun” Rua at just 23 years of age. He’s since gone on to have one of the most decorated careers in UFC history, setting multiple records at 205 pounds before moving up to heavyweight, where he later won the championship.

    Now, UFC 313’s Joshua Van is hoping for a chance to surpass Jones’ record — but time is running out.

    Van, who made his professional MMA debut in 2021, has compiled a 12-2 record, including six fights in the UFC. The 22-year-old is riding a two-fight winning streak and remains optimistic about his chances, even if he acknowledges the challenge of making history.

    “Nah, I never thought about it (becoming the youngest UFC champion) until I made it to the UFC, and then I was like, ‘Oh, I’m pretty young… maybe I can make it happen,’” Van told MMA Knockout ahead of his return at UFC 313. “If, like, a miracle, some opportunity pulls up and I get to fight for the belt, then hey, so be it. Let’s hope.”

    For Van to achieve this feat, he would need an unexpected title shot within the next four months, as he turns 23 soon. Current flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja is expected to defend his belt against Kai Kara-France in June, meaning Van would likely need an injury or unforeseen circumstances to open the door for him.

    Van was originally scheduled to fight Bruno Gustavo da Silva on March 8 at UFC 313. However, Silva withdrew due to undisclosed reasons and was replaced by Rei Tsuruya, the winner of Road to UFC Season 2 in the flyweight division.

  • Jake Paul: Serrano Will Break Major Rousey Record In Upcoming Netflix Fight

    Jake Paul’s MVP Promotions has solidified its commitment to Amanda Serrano, the Ring, WBA, and WBO featherweight champion, by signing her to a lifetime deal.

    This announcement, which coincides with the confirmation of Serrano’s highly anticipated trilogy fight against Katie Taylor, marks a long-term partnership that extends beyond her active boxing career.

    The agreement ensures Serrano will fight exclusively under the MVP banner for the remainder of her professional boxing journey. Additionally, she will take on the role of chairwoman of MVP’s women’s boxing initiatives, where she will lead efforts to discover, sign, develop, and promote female athletes within the company.

    The upcoming Serrano-Taylor trilogy fight, scheduled for July 11 at Madison Square Garden, will headline an all-female fight card. There is a possibility that some of the women MVP is working with will appear on the undercard.

    This event follows their previous encounter in November 2024, where Taylor secured a controversial unanimous decision victory in a bout that achieved record-breaking viewership. It became the most-watched professional women’s sports event in U.S. history, drawing 74 million live viewers globally.

    The storied rivalry between Serrano and Taylor has captivated audiences, and their upcoming trilogy fight is expected to be another landmark event.

    Jake Paul took to X to tout the upcoming Netflix fight, even stating that his fighter will surpass UFC legend Ronda Rousey’s peak purse.

    “When Amanda Serrano enters the ring on July 11th, she will become the highest-paid woman in sports history for a single event. ALL SPORTS. Ronda Rousey had the record previously,” Jake Paul wrote.

  • Canelo Optimistic Turki Alalshikh & Dana White’s Promotion Will Be Good For Boxing

    Canelo Optimistic Turki Alalshikh & Dana White’s Promotion Will Be Good For Boxing

    Canelo Alvarez, boxing’s global star, has recently made a series of high-profile moves that are reshaping his career. After signing a last-minute, multi-fight deal with influential advisor Turki Alalshikh, he parted ways with Premier Boxing Champions and potential clash with YouTube star Jake Paul. 

    This shift has positioned him for a reported blockbuster fight on Netflix. The unified super middleweight champion is set to make his Saudi Arabia debut on May 3, facing undefeated IBF titleholder William Scull in an undisputed 168-pound clash as part of Riyadh Season.

    However, the buzz surrounding Alvarez extends beyond his upcoming fight following the recent announcement of UFC’s Dana White and WWE’s Nick Khan leading TKO’s new boxing promotion, backed by Alalshikh and Saudi Arabia. 

    It has fueled speculation about Alvarez’s future. With the promotion’s anticipated debut in September, rumors are swirling that Canelo could headline against pound-for-pound boxing luminary Terence Crawford.

    This potential super-fight underscores the significant impact of the new promotion and the high-caliber matchups it aims to deliver.

    “There’s always an opportunity for me to fight in September in Las Vegas, those are my dates [along with Cinco de Mayo weekend in May] and everyone knows that,” Alvarez told CBS Sports HQ on Thursday. “We need to take care of the May fight first but there is an opportunity to fight in Vegas in September and be the first event for [TKO] as a promoter.”

    When questioned about the potential impact of Dana White and TKO’s foray into boxing, Canelo expressed optimism.

    “I think if it’s the best for the fighters out there, I’m fine with that,” Alvarez said. “I think [TKO] is going to do the best for the fighters, I’m pretty sure about that. I’m glad someone takes good care of the fighters because there are a lot of promoters that don’t take seriously the fighters. I think this is good for boxing and for the fighters, especially.”

  • Israel Adesanya Warns Magomed Ankalaev Of ‘Painful’ Experience vs. Alex Pereira 

    Israel Adesanya Warns Magomed Ankalaev Of ‘Painful’ Experience vs. Alex Pereira 

    Israel Adesanya will be paying close attention to Alex Pereira’s light heavyweight title defense at UFC 313, which presents him with a formidable challenge against Magomed Ankalaev, a fighter riding a 13-fight unbeaten streak. 

    Given their extensive history across multiple combat sports, Adesanya possesses unparalleled insight into Pereira’s fighting style. Their relationship, now marked by cordiality, lends significant weight to the former middleweight king’s analysis of Pereira’s fights.

    Ankalaev’s diverse skillset is widely anticipated to test Pereira’s abilities to their limits. “Poatan,” however, heads into the fight with significant momentum, having successfully defended his title three times in 2024. A victory this weekend would solidify his place in history, making him the fastest light heavyweight champion to achieve four title defenses (within 329 days), surpassing Jon Jones’ record.

    Adesanya’s prediction for the UFC 313 main event is decisive: he doesn’t foresee the clash between Pereira and Ankalaev going the full five rounds. Instead, Adesanya anticipates a decisive finish.

    “Leg kicks. Let’s just address the f*cking elephant in the room,” Adesanya said. “That’s gonna be a factor in this fight. (Ankalaev) might have to become a wrestler in this fight. He might have to go into his bag for this one ’cause you can’t just (stand with Pereira).

    “Maybe I’m banking so much on the leg kicks. I have experience with it. I know how painful it is and how effective it is,” Adesanya continued. “Regardless, I’m gonna go Pereira ’cause momentum. He’s just on a tear right now. When you have that kind of frame and power, you just trust in your skillset so much.”

  • Former FBI Agent Backs Kash Patel’s Plan For UFC Partnership

    Former FBI Agent Backs Kash Patel’s Plan For UFC Partnership

    The newly appointed FBI Director, Kash Patel, is considering implementing mixed martial arts (MMA) training as a mandatory requirement for agents, and one former agent supports the idea.

    This initiative is part of Patel’s broader agenda, which includes aligning the bureau with the Trump administration’s priorities and enhancing the physical fitness of its personnel.

    In addition to this proposed training regimen, Patel is reportedly focused on removing agents who do not align with the administration’s goals. The emphasis on physical fitness, particularly through MMA training, is seen as a way to ensure agents are prepared for the physical demands of their roles.

    Jody Weis, a former FBI special agent in charge and former superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, has publicly expressed support for the idea, indicating that he believes it would be a beneficial addition to agent training.

    “You know, I actually do like it,” Weis told The National News Desk’s Jan Jeffcoat. “I probably wouldn’t have made it my first call to the field offices, but I like the idea.”

    Weis believes that while FBI agents receive training in arrest procedures and defensive tactics, incorporating mixed martial arts (MMA) skills would provide a valuable enhancement. He specifically highlighted the potential benefits of agents learning MMA fighting techniques, with a particular emphasis on jiu-jitsu.

    “Most fights will end up on the ground, so it just makes sense to me to incorporate some MMA training — maybe Brazilian jiu jitsu to give the agents options besides strikes and weapons,” Weis told Jeffcoat. “For example, if properly applied, a naked choke or an arm bar could help gain compliance without having to use pepper spray or use a baton. And, I think, more importantly, this type of training can boost the confidence and safety for the agents.”

    Jody Weis acknowledged the controversial nature of chokeholds, noting their “bad press” and the fact that many police departments have prohibited their use. However, he went on to say it pales in comparison to current tactics.

    “As someone who’s been sprayed with pepper spray (and) who’s been choked out, if you give me the option of those two, I’ll take being choked out any time,” he said. “It’s far less painful. It’s got to be incorporated throughout their career. I think that applies in all sports.

    According to ABC News, citing anonymous sources, FBI Director Kash Patel is reportedly exploring the possibility of establishing a formal partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the UFC, led by UFC CEO Dana White.

    This potential collaboration is notable given White’s vocal support of President Donald Trump, who has frequently attended UFC events and been seen alongside White.

  • Dana White Gives Major Update On Jon Jones’ UFC Return

    Dana White Gives Major Update On Jon Jones’ UFC Return

    Jon Jones’s return to the Octagon is generating significant buzz, with UFC CEO Dana White providing an update. 

    The most pressing question remains: will Jones finally face interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall?

    Jones’ avoidance of Aspinall has fueled accusations of “ducking” from fans, especially considering his controversial title defense against a 42-year-old Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 rather than facing the interim champ.

    Despite past avoidance, White has repeatedly stated that Aspinall is Jones’ next opponent. This potential clash is one of the most anticipated in MMA history, with Aspinall being widely regarded as the Rochester native’s toughest test at heavyweight.

    The fight’s realization, however, hinges on negotiations and getting the right figure agreed to.

    While appearing on ESPN’s First Take on Wednesday, White confirmed that the heavyweight champion will fight sometime “this summer.” This announcement could put to rest earlier retirement speculations that had swirled around Jon Jones.

    While a definitive date and opponent are yet to be finalized, UFC International Fight Week (IFW), culminating in UFC 317 on June 28, is a strong possibility. However, rumors of a potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria superfight headlining could leave room for Jones to compete later in the summer.

    The summer showdown, if it materializes, promises to be a landmark event in Jon Jones’ legendary career. It would also be one of the biggest fights that the UFC could do.

  • Turki Alalshikh Backs Dana White To Make ‘Boxing Great Again’

    Turki Alalshikh Backs Dana White To Make ‘Boxing Great Again’

    A groundbreaking partnership has been forged between Turki Alalshikh and TKO Group Holdings, heralding the launch of a new boxing promotion.

    This boxing venture will be jointly steered by two prominent names in combat sports and entertainment: UFC CEO Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan.

    White’s renewed interest in boxing has been a subject of speculation for some time, with reports earlier in 2025 indicating advanced discussions between him and Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. These reports have now been confirmed with the official announcement of the partnership on Wednesay. 

    The collaboration, revealed through a press release, unites Alalshikh, TKO Group Holdings (formed by Endeavor through the merger of WWE and Zuffa LLC, UFC’s parent company), and the entertainment conglomerate Sela.

    Their shared ambition is to establish a new, “premier” platform that will redefine the landscape of professional boxing.

    “I am very happy today,” Alalshikh said. “I am very happy today. I give the flag of boxing to the best man who can handle it. We have a tough job now, but I am sure he will be delivering to the people and the fans the magnificent league and get boxing great again.”

    The landscape of combat sports is undergoing a significant shift, with Alalshikh playing a pivotal role in funding the effort. His involvement in high-profile boxing events has solidified his presence in the boxing world.

    The recent announcement of Saudi Arabia’s funding for a new boxing promotion, spearheaded by TKO, was largely anticipated. TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro had previously hinted at ongoing negotiations, teasing the possibility of two major cards in 2025 and 2026.

    Alalshikh’s influence extends beyond traditional boxing. He recently demonstrated a willingness to blend elements of MMA into boxing events with “The Last Crescendo” in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This card, held on Feb. 22, featured a stacked lineup of title fights, culminating in a captivating undisputed light heavyweight championship rematch between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev.

  • 47-Year-Old UFC Vet With Only 8 KOs In 80 Fights Set For BKFC Debut

    47-Year-Old UFC Vet With Only 8 KOs In 80 Fights Set For BKFC Debut

    Aleksei Oleinik, a veteran of 80 professional MMA fights, is transitioning to a new combat sports arena: Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).

    At 47, Oleinik is not retiring. Instead, he’s embracing a fresh challenge.

    Oleinik’s career has been a global odyssey, with appearances in prominent promotions like the UFC, KSW, and Bellator. Now, he’s set to make his BKFC debut on April 4 in Dubai, marking the promotion’s inaugural event in the United Arab Emirates.

    His opponent will be Gerônimo dos Santos, a 44-year-old Brazilian heavyweight with a wealth of experience, boasting 71 professional fights. Oleinik’s message of “Bone. Blood. Fist.” reflects his anticipation for the bare-knuckle challenge.

    This move follows Oleinik’s submission victory at RCC 17 in December 2023. Notably, he also showcased his striking prowess with a 34-second knockout in his boxing debut, demonstrating his versatility beyond his renowned submission skills.

    During his 17-fight UFC tenure, Oleinik secured seven of his nine wins via submission. This earned him the moniker “The Boa Constrictor” for his grappling expertise. 

    Interestingly, while he’s signed to compete for BKFC, Oleinik has also put pen to paper on a deal with the new MMA promotion, Global Fight League. He was drafted by Team New York City.

    His UFC record includes unique submission victories, such as Ezekiel chokes and neck cranks. He faced a who’s who of heavyweight talent, including Curtis Blaydes, Mark Hunt, Travis Browne, Alistair Overeem, and former UFC champion Fabricio Werdum.

    This event marks BKFC’s first-ever event into the Middle East, specifically in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event will be held at the Dubai Tennis Stadium. The main event features Austin Trout, the current BKFC welterweight champion, defending his title against Carlos “Snake” Trinidad.

  • Chael Sonnen Raises Suspicions Over Cause Of Death After Olympic Wrestling Legend ‘Fell Out A Window’

    Chael Sonnen Raises Suspicions Over Cause Of Death After Olympic Wrestling Legend ‘Fell Out A Window’

    There is a lot of speculation and talk regarding the tragic death of Buvaisar Saitiev, a three-time Olympic champion. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest freestyle wrestlers of all time, 

    This includes speculation from MMA personality Chael Sonnen, who has weighed in on the passing. Saitiev is alleged to have passed away after falling from a window while cleaning his home. 

    Many have claimed the details of the death to be odd considering the other mysterious deaths in Russia, often involving politicians or prominent figures in the country. Sonnen expressed skepticism about the circumstances surrounding Saitiev’s death in a post on X.

    “Hard to be in peace when the World accepts your death was caused by falling from your own window while cleaning a home you have a maid at.”

    He passed away at the sge of 49. Since his death, Saitiev has been given tributes from the likes of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev.

    This is just the latest incident, which adds to a troubling pattern of unexplained deaths among prominent Russians. With an investigation seemingly unlikely, it leaves people questioning what really happened.

    The circumstances surrounding the passing have come alongside tributes, with many people believe there is more than meets the eye regarding this. 

  • Tony Ferguson Explains How UFC Exit Came To Be: ‘Talking To Dana, Hunter, We All Agreed…’

    Tony Ferguson Explains How UFC Exit Came To Be: ‘Talking To Dana, Hunter, We All Agreed…’

    Tony Ferguson’s departure from the UFC marked the end of a long and tumultuous chapter in his career, a period filled with both remarkable highs and devastating lows. After nearly 14 years in the Octagon, Ferguson’s release was undoubtedly emotional.

    His UFC journey began triumphantly, winning Season 13 of The Ultimate Fighter in 2011 and eventually capturing the interim lightweight championship. However, his later years in the promotion were marred by a historic eight-fight losing streak, culminating in a submission loss to Michael Chiesa at UFC on ABC 7.  

    Despite the painful conclusion, Ferguson expressed a sense of acceptance and even relief. He framed his UFC experience as a valuable learning opportunity, emphasizing personal growth and future planning. 

    While he has found peace with his UFC exit, lingering bitterness remains, particularly regarding the circumstances surrounding his interim title. He felt deeply wronged by the UFC’s decision to strip him of the belt after a freak knee injury forced him to withdraw from his scheduled title fight against Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 223.  

    “When I left the UFC, everything was – I hate to say it because I wanted to fight another time – but obviously, even me, I had to be like, ‘I have to excuse myself guys, I don’t want to leave on bad terms,’” Tony Ferguson said on The Ariel Helwani Show. “So, talking to Dana [White], talking to Hunter [Campbell], and coming to terms with it, it was like we all agreed that it was in the best interest for me to move on, and honestly, it was awesome.

    “I have to tell you, I packed up all my UFC stuff, I put it into bags, and it was the hardest f*cking thing I had to do. It was a couple of days where it took time for me to be able to adjust. I put everything in big storage bags, and I was ready to move on. I went into The Ultimate Fighter with the purpose of winning a fat check so I can help my family out, my grandma and everything, and I ended up getting a contract. So, this whole entire process has never been a disappointment, but what it has been is a learning experience of how, one, about how I go about my business. Two, about how I treat my close circle. Three, about how I want to plan for the future.”

    Tony Ferguson has wasted no time in moving forward, signing with the Global Fight League and announcing a bout against Dillon Danis. 

  • Deontay Wilder’s Coach Says Francis Ngannou’s Power Doesn’t ‘Come Close’ In Boxing

    Deontay Wilder’s Coach Says Francis Ngannou’s Power Doesn’t ‘Come Close’ In Boxing

    PFL star Francis Ngannou is expected to return to boxing next, fueling speculation of a long-discussed clash with Deontay Wilder.

    Ngannou’s transition from MMA to professional boxing has generated significant attention. It’s not often that you see a top fighter in the UFC move into boxing in his prime. 

    Ngannou, known for his incredible punching power in the UFC, had long been interested in boxing. He made his debut in the ring against Tyson Fury in October 2023. This was a very high-profile fight, and Ngannou surprised many by putting on a very good performance and even knocking Fury down. 

    After losing via a controversial split decision, the Cameroonian then faced Anthony Joshua last March, falling to defeat by second-round knockout. Now, he’s looking ahead. 

    During an interview with SpaceportSweden.com, Deontay Wilder’s coach, Malik Scott, spoke about the potential fight between the two heavyweights. 

    “I haven’t seen Ngannou work enough with 10 ounce gloves on in a boxing ring. Is he a big, strong, heavy-handed guy? Yes. But with Deontay, Deontay’s power is blessed because he gets to the target so fast. He puts his hip through you, he puts his shoulder through. It’s just so many different dynamics with the way Deontay has always knocked guys out.

    “He has a long resume of knocking guys out cold. That didn’t happen overnight. I haven’t seen Francis Ngannou enough in a boxing ring to think his power comes close to Deontay Wilder’s. I just haven’t.”

    Interestingly, Fury has previously shared the same sentiment, telling reporter Charlie Parsons than “The Bronze Bomber” had more power in his punches than “The Predator.”

  • UFC Legend Diego Sanchez To Make Boxing Debut On Rampage Jackson vs. Rashad Evans Undercard

    UFC Legend Diego Sanchez To Make Boxing Debut On Rampage Jackson vs. Rashad Evans Undercard

    Diego Sanchez, a beloved figure in UFC history, is transitioning to professional boxing, setting up a bout against fellow UFC veteran John Makdessi. 

    The fight is scheduled for the ICS Mania 1 card in Sanchez’s home state of New Mexico, marking a significant moment in his post-UFC career. Sanchez, known for his passionate fighting style and memorable moments in the Octagon, left the UFC in 2020 after a decision loss to Jake Matthews. 

    Since then, he’s continued to explore combat sports, including a decision loss to Kevin Lee in Eagle FC and a knockout loss to Austin Trout in a BKFC bout. In a recent interview, Sanchez expressed his excitement about his professional boxing debut, fulfilling a long-held dream. 

    “It’s a dream come true,” Diego Sanchez said to KRQE. “I was there when Johnny Tapia fought there and I always had the dream of fighting there and that was even before the dream I had of fighting. Later as I got older and I was in the UFC, I always worked hard to try and get the UFC there and it never happened. We know that the ghost of Johnny Tapia, I know he is going to be there, and yeah maybe he will be haunting our opponents.

    “I am ready to go in there and beat this dude with one hand, you know because this isn’t kickboxing, this isn’t the UFC,”  Sanchez explained. “I am going to put pressure, I am going to put pace, and I am going to fight for Albuquerque, I am going to fight for New Mexico. I am going to go in there and I am going to put it on this guy.”

    The ICS Mania 1 card will also feature a headline boxing rematch between former UFC light heavyweight champions Rampage Jackson and Rashad Evans, reigniting their storied rivalry in a different combat realm. This event is setting up to be a nostalgic night for combat sports fans.

  • Jean Silva Compared To ‘Conor McGregor In His Prime’ Ahead Of Bryce Mitchell Showdown

    Jean Silva Compared To ‘Conor McGregor In His Prime’ Ahead Of Bryce Mitchell Showdown

    Kenny Florian sees a potential future champion emerging in the UFC’s featherweight division: Jean Silva. He also sees “Lord” in the same light as Conor McGregor when he was in his prime.

    With four consecutive finishes inside the Octagon, Silva is rapidly building a formidable reputation. His recent first-round knockout of Melsik Baghdasaryan at UFC Seattle was a spectacular display of power, earning him significant praise from fight fans and fighters alike.

    Silva is set to face a significant test at UFC 314, where he’ll take on No. 13-ranked contender Bryce Mitchell, a considerable step up in competition. Florian, having experienced the challenges of both the featherweight and lightweight classes himself, and having fought for titles against legends like Jose Aldo and BJ Penn, recognizes the special talent Silva possesses.

    Florian’s high regard for Silva was evident during the Anik & Florian Podcast, during which he spoke glowingly of the Brazilian’s potential and even likened him to McGregor, the sport’s first simultaneous two-division champ.

    “This guy (Silva) is special. His ability to land shots at the right time. It reminds me of Conor McGregor in his prime,” Florian said. “How he can find your chin and the artistry that he shows in getting there, he’s not just winging punches with his eyes looking down at the canvas. He knows exactly what he’s doing and it’s just beautiful to watch.

    “He may very well be a champion in this sport in the near future,” Florian added.

    UFC 314 is scheduled to take place on April 12 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.