MMA News

Author: Andrew Ravens

  • Aljamain Sterling On UFC 310 Prelim Placement: ‘I Am A Main Card Fighter!’

    Aljamain Sterling On UFC 310 Prelim Placement: ‘I Am A Main Card Fighter!’

    Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling was puzzled to see his crucial featherweight clash with Movsar Evloev demoted to this weekend’s preliminary card.

    Sterling is widely regarded as one of the best fighters in the world, showcasing his talent across two weight classes. He excelled as a 135-pound kingpin before transitioning to 145 pounds, where he continues to make waves.

    “Funk Master’s” rise to prominence included an impressive winning streak that culminated in capturing the bantamweight title at UFC 259 with a disqualification victory over Petr Yan. He then successfully defended the belt three times, defeating Yan in a rematch, TJ Dillashaw, and Henry Cejudo.

    However, his reign ended at UFC 292, where he lost the title to Sean O’Malley. Undeterred, Sterling moved to the featherweight division and secured a notable victory over Calvin Kattar at UFC 300 this past April

    Now, Sterling is set to face top-five contender Movsar Evloev at UFC 310 on Dec. 7. Surprisingly, the fight will be featured on the prelims rather than the pay-per-view main card. In a video uploaded to his YouTube channel, Sterling expressed mixed feelings about the placement.

    “I didn’t know if I should have been insulted by the placement on the fight card or glass half-full. I guess that’s the best way I try to look at everything in life,” Sterling said. “I get to fight earlier and get to be done earlier. I get to pop open a fresh bottle of Funk Harbor, hang out with the friends, and celebrate a big win. I was a little confused by it, of course.

    “I guess they have their rhyme or reason for what they do, the UFC brass, and it is what it is. At the end of the day, it’s not my organization. I don’t call the shots. I just go out there and compete, and it’s up to me to go out there and prove these guys wrong,” Sterling continued. “Hey, I am a main card fighter. I think people are going to be in for a very big surprise, and the UFC is going to realize we messed up big time by not putting this on the main card.”

    Sterling’s confidence and determination to prove his worth as a main card fighter could make his bout against Evloev one of the most talked-about moments of the night, regardless of its placement.

  • Ciryl Gane Addresses ‘Total Misunderstanding Of What Was Happening’ In Jon Jones Loss

    Ciryl Gane is just days away from stepping back into the Octagon, where he will face former Bellator heavyweight champion Alexander Volkov in a rematch at UFC 310 on Dec. 7. This bout was initially scheduled for October at UFC 308, but Volkov withdrew due to a knee injury.

    Ahead of his next outing, Gane continues to reflect on his devastating loss to UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones at UFC 285 in March 2023 — a defeat he describes as a pivotal learning experience.

    He rebounded impressively with a TKO victory over Serghei Spivac at a UFC Fight Night event in Paris six months later.

    Speaking during the UFC 310 Countdown episode, Gane opened up about his mindset during the Jones fight, admitting that he felt disconnected in the cage.

    “When I look back at it, it was obvious that I was not there. It represented exactly how I felt on the day of the fight. It was a total misunderstanding of what was happening,” Gane said. “I don’t recognize myself there. It’s something I’ve never done in my life. I’ve never fought that way before. My distance management, my movement, the alertness that I love to show — I had none of that.”

    Despite the setback, Gane views the experience as a turning point in his career.

    “Looking back, I think that this experience may have been beneficial,” Gane continued. “For me personally, it helped me to refocus on myself. It gave me a spirit of revenge, a competitive spirit.”

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EBuiZj5Jzlc

    Now fully refocused and determined, Gane will look to capitalize on his growth as he prepares for a second meeting with Volkov, hoping to solidify his path back to the top of the heavyweight division.

  • Michael Bisping Reveals The One Thing Ian Garry Must Avoid Or He’ll Get Finished By Shavkat Rakhmonov

    Michael Bisping Reveals The One Thing Ian Garry Must Avoid Or He’ll Get Finished By Shavkat Rakhmonov

    Ian Garry is set to make his return at UFC 310, stepping into the Octagon against fellow unbeaten contender Shavkat Rakhmonov in a highly anticipated, non-title co-main event. The bout, scheduled for five rounds, promises to test the limits of both fighters.

    Garry comes into this matchup riding the momentum of three consecutive decision victories over notable opponents: Neil Magny at UFC 292, Geoff Neal at UFC 298, and Michael “Venom” Page at UFC 303. Despite this impressive streak, the stylistic challenge presented by Rakhmonov has raised questions, even among MMA analysts.

    Former UFC champion Michael Bisping has expressed admiration for Garry’s decision to accept such a tough matchup but also noted the challenges he faces. Bisping is particularly concerned about whether Garry can handle Rakhmonov’s relentless grappling and takedown attempts.

    “Ian Garry is probably going to dance around the Octagon and use the exact same game plan he did against Geoff Neal,” Bisping said. “He’s got to keep Shavkat Rakhmonov off him. If he can’t stop the takedown, he will get finished, and that is no disrespect to Ian Garry.

    “He might be able to dance around, use the reach, use the range, use the movement. Be fast, be elusive, be nice and crisp, be light on his toes, and be disciplined enough to not get involved in a brawl,” Bisping continued. “If he does that, Shavkat is going to get a hold of him. If he gets a hold of him, he’s going to get him down, and if he gets him down, it’s going to be lights out.”

    Bisping emphasized that Garry’s path to victory lies in utilizing his range, sticking and moving, and staying upright to avoid grappling exchanges with Rakhmonov.

  • Aljamain Sterling: Merab Dvalishvili Is ‘Standing On Business’ With Umar Nurmagomedov Dismissal

    Aljamain Sterling: Merab Dvalishvili Is ‘Standing On Business’ With Umar Nurmagomedov Dismissal

    Aljamain Sterling has voiced his opinion regarding UFC Bantamweight Champion Merab Dvalishvili’s decision to reject a fight with Umar Nurmagomedov.

    This follows Dvalishvili’s call for a rematch against Petr Yan after the Russian’s recent victory over Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC Macau. The proposed bout with Yan has history behind it, as the Georgian previously secured a decision win over him.

    The champion has dismissed Nurmagomedov’s claim to a title shot, arguing that his single win over a ranked contender, Cory Sandhagen, is insufficient to warrant a championship opportunity. Sterling has come forward to support his friend and teammate’s stance, refuting claims that the champ is ‘scared’ of Nurmagomedov.

    “Some people actually think he’s afraid, which is actually hilarious,” Sterling commented. “From what I understand when we talk, Merab is just standing on business. Like, ‘Bro, you haven’t done anything, and I’m supposed to be busting my ass over here?’

    “’I’m from the same area as you, in relation to the Caucasus Mountains, and I had to come here and bust my ass just to get a title shot. And you’re going to get it off of one win? And I had to fight all these contenders.’ That’s crazy.”

    Sterling believes Yan’s record, which includes multiple accolades and high-profile opponents, makes him a more deserving contender for the next title shot.

    He argues that the competitive road Yan has traveled adds weight to his claim, reinforcing Dvalishvili’s decision to prioritize him over Nurmagomedov.

  • Jon Anik Names UFC Champion Who Still ‘Doesn’t Get His Due’

    UFC play-by-play commentator Jon Anik hopes to see flyweight kingpin Alexandre Pantoja getting more appreciation for his status as one of the promotion’s best.

    Pantoja has solidified his reputation as one of the top fighters in the UFC, earning accolades for his skill, tenacity, and dominance in the 125-pound division. At UFC 310 on Dec. 7, “The Cannibal” is set to defend his title for the third time against Kai Asakura, a formidable newcomer known for his electrifying style.

    Despite his success, Pantoja, like many flyweight champions before him, struggles to gain the widespread recognition enjoyed by fighters in larger weight classes. This sentiment echoes the experiences of former flyweight great Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson, whose technical brilliance often went underappreciated due to the division’s lower commercial draw.

    UFC commentator Jon Anik highlighted this ongoing issue during a recent interview with MMA Junkie, praising Pantoja while expressing frustration at the lack of recognition the champion receives.

    “Very excited to see Kai Asakura live for the first time – electric fighter,” Anik said. “I just think that Pantoja is the absolute man. He just doesn’t get his due.”

    This bout was initially scheduled as the UFC 310 co-main event, with the original headliner featuring welterweight champion Belal Muhammad defending his title against Shavkat Rakhmonov.

    However, “Remember the Name’s” injury led to his withdrawal, promoting Pantoja vs. Asakura to the main event slot.

  • ‘Rampage’ Jackson Thought Miocic Would Be A Tougher Challenge For Jon Jones Than Aspinall

    ‘Rampage’ Jackson Thought Miocic Would Be A Tougher Challenge For Jon Jones Than Aspinall

    Quinton “Rampage” Jackson joined the MMA community in reflecting on the clash between Stipe Miocic and UFC heavyweight king Jon Jones.

    The UFC 309 headliner saw the Rochester native claim victory in spectacular fashion, finishing the former two-time champion with ease. This dominant performance fueled discussions among fight fans about Jones’ status as the greatest of all time in MMA given his impressive résumé, which includes titles in two weight classes.

    Jackson, who suffered a loss to “Bones” over a decade ago, initially believed Miocic would pose a significant threat to the reigning champ. However, in light of the fight’s outcome, “Rampage” revised his perspective, especially regarding a potential matchup between Jones and interim heavyweight titleholder Tom Aspinall.

    “I feel like Jon Jones’ last performance, I don’t even think any heavyweight could beat (him),” Jackson said on Uncrowned’s The Ariel Helwani Show. “I think he solidified himself as one of the greatest fighters on the planet. No disrespect to Aspinall — I think he’s a great fighter, and I’m a fan of his — but I thought Stipe would be a tougher challenge on paper. I think Jon Jones is the Neo of MMA. He’s Neo.”

    The heavyweight kingpin has hinted at discussions with the UFC about a potential 2025 return, targeting a bout with current light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.

  • Bo Nickal On Abandoning Wrestling At UFC 309: ‘A Great Step In The Right Direction’

    Bo Nickal On Abandoning Wrestling At UFC 309: ‘A Great Step In The Right Direction’

    Bo Nickal secured another impressive victory earlier this month at UFC 309, defeating Paul Craig on the main card at Madison Square Garden.

    This win added to Nickal’s growing undefeated record, which now includes four victories under the UFC banner. His previous finishes came against Jamie Pickett, Val Woodburn, and Cody Brundage.

    While many expected Nickal to lean on his world-class wrestling skills in the Craig fight, he surprised fans by focusing on his striking. This decision drew mixed reactions from fight fans, some of whom questioned his strategy.

    However, Nickal defended his approach during an appearance on the Pound 4 Pound podcast, expressing joy about his performance.

    “I think that this last fight, even though people didn’t love the performance, was a great step in the right direction,” Nickal said. “I dominated a veteran — a guy who has 26 fights — for three straight rounds just using striking. I didn’t even use my biggest asset. I think people now are saying, ‘Oh, Bo, he can’t wrestle,’ this or that. Bro, trust me, I can wrestle.”

    Nickal reassured fans that his wrestling remains a key weapon in his arsenal and promised to continue dominating opponents in future fights.

  • Paddy Pimblett Explains Dramatic Weight Gain After UFC Fights: ‘I Can Go Up To About 95 kg’

    Paddy Pimblett Explains Dramatic Weight Gain After UFC Fights: ‘I Can Go Up To About 95 kg’

    Although Paddy Pimblett competes in the UFC lightweight division at 155 pounds, he is notorious for walking around at a much heavier weight between fights.

    Known for his love of food, Pimblett frequently undergoes dramatic weight fluctuations. Despite these challenges, the fan-favorite Scouse fighter continues to rack up impressive victories.

    Pimblett has extended his winning streak to eight, with his most recent victories coming over Tony Ferguson via decision at UFC 296 and King Green via submission at UFC 304.

    During an appearance on the Still Talking Show, Pimblett revealed that he typically walks around at 194 pounds before cutting down to the lightweight limit. However, after fights, he can balloon up to as much as 205 pounds due to the body’s reaction to his extreme weight-cutting process.

    “Now I’m just back to my normal weight,” Pimblett explained. “I’m walking around at 88kgs (194 pounds). After a fight week, I can go up to about 95 kg (209.4 pounds) or 93 (205). It’s just where you have depleted your body — it holds onto everything.

    “Where I’ve half put it in starvation mode for the week making weight, your body holds on to everything. So, as soon as I have salty stuff, it just retains the water. That’s why I look bloated, and I look fat. It’s my cheeks—it’s just bloated because I go overboard, I’ll be honest.”

    Although Pimblett does not currently have his next fight scheduled, the UFC is set to return to the UK with a Fight Night event at The O2 Arena on March 22.

  • Jon Anik Predicts When Jon Jones Will Fight Tom Aspinall

    Jon Anik Predicts When Jon Jones Will Fight Tom Aspinall

    UFC broadcaster Jon Anik believes Jon Jones’ next fight should keep him in the heavyweight division, fueling ongoing debate among fans.

    While the heavyweight champion has dismissed a potential clash with his interim counterpart in the division, Tom Aspinall, he has expressed interest in a showdown with reigning light heavyweight titleholder Alex Pereira.

    Regardless of the opponent, Jones is reportedly in talks with the UFC for a return in 2025. Anik speculates that the ideal matchup would see Jones face Aspinall in a unification bout.

    “I have no inside information. I truly don’t. You can call it informed speculation,” Anik shared in an interview with MMA Junkie Radio. “But I do believe that fight is going to happen, and I think what was most telling was the way Jon Jones handled his post-fight interview with Joe Rogan. I also spoke to him backstage for ESPN, and he sounded far from retirement. That’s very encouraging.”

    And Anik envisions International Fight Week in July 2025, traditionally held in Las Vegas, as the perfect stage for such a high-stakes fight.

    “It just comes down to what Jon Jones’ number is,” Anik explained. “What is Jon Jones’ net worth? What number is he looking for? Is it $25 million to show? What is Michael Jordan worth? What is the greatest of all time worth? I feel like the company is in a great position to make this fight happen. And I think you’ve got to do Las Vegas, you’ve got to do International Fight Week 2025.”

  • Former Rival: Michael Chandler ‘Looked Like Crap’ In ‘Embarrassing’ UFC 309 Loss

    Former Rival: Michael Chandler ‘Looked Like Crap’ In ‘Embarrassing’ UFC 309 Loss

    Michael Chandler’s recent struggles in the octagon have provided an opportunity for his former rival, Brent Primus, to weigh in on his performance.

    Chandler’s latest fight occurred at UFC 309, where he was defeated by former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira. Over his last six fights, the former Bellator star has a 2-4 record, with his most recent victory being a knockout of Tony Ferguson at UFC 274 in May 2022.

    Primus and Chandler share a contentious history. Their first bout in June 2017 ended with the latter suffering a TKO loss. However, Chandler evened the score in their rematch at Bellator 212 a year later, earning a decision win.

    Speaking to MMA Fighting in a recent interview, Primus didn’t hold back in his criticism of Chandler’s recent performance.

    “Man, he looked like crap in his last fight,” Primus remarked. “His footwork, he was falling everywhere. He was throwing his right hand like he was throwing a baseball. I was not impressed with his performance.

    “His callout was kind of cringey. I don’t like that guy. I think Chandler, he’s a cheater. I feel like he’s a dirty fighter. I just don’t like that guy at all,” Primus continued. “Watching Oliveira pick him apart like that, it was kind of fun to see for sure.”

    Primus went on to describe his ex-opponent’s loss as “embarrassing,” particularly in light of his two-year hiatus while waiting for a fight with Conor McGregor.

    “You sit out for two years and wait for somebody, that’s what happens,” he said.

  • Frank Mir Recalls The Time He Nearly ‘Killed’ Jason ‘Mayhem’ Miller In Training

    Frank Mir Recalls The Time He Nearly ‘Killed’ Jason ‘Mayhem’ Miller In Training

    Frank Mir is not someone to take lightly, and things can escalate quickly when ego enters the equation — as it often did with Jason “Mayhem” Miller.

    The two were teammates for years, with Mir becoming a UFC heavyweight champion and Miller experiencing a mix of success and struggles both inside and outside the Octagon. Known for his antics, “Mayhem” often tested the limits with his teammates in training — a habit Mir experienced firsthand.

    During one infamous training session, things reached a boiling point, nearly resulting in a serious injury to Miller. Mir shared the story during an appearance on the JAXXON podcast.

    “We were training at Marc Laimon’s gym, and Laimon said, ‘Hey, Frank, practice is over … once you finish somebody.’ So I just turned it on and started tapping everybody,” Mir recounted. “Then I got to Mayhem, and I put him in a guillotine, and he almost killed himself. He ran his feet up the f***ing cage, trying to flip over me — it was weird. So I let it go, and then I caught him in a kimura.

    “I started cranking it and thought, ‘I’m not letting go. F*** this. Today you’re going to learn!’ So I put his hand to the back of his head.”

  • Ngannou On Claim Jon Jones Is ‘Ducking’ Tom Aspinall: ‘There’s A Negotiation Situation Here We Don’t Know’

    Ngannou On Claim Jon Jones Is ‘Ducking’ Tom Aspinall: ‘There’s A Negotiation Situation Here We Don’t Know’

    Francis Ngannou has shared his perspective on the ongoing situation involving Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall.

    Recently, Jones revealed that he is in discussions with the UFC to make a comeback in 2025 for at least one fight. However, the question remains: who will the heavyweight champion face in his return?

    After his dominant third-round victory over Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, Jones outlined his future aspirations. He expressed interest in fighting reigning light heavyweight champ Alex Pereira. Despite speculation about a logical showdown with interim heavyweight titleholder Tom Aspinall, “Bones” has made his preference clear, suggesting that Aspinall needs the fight more than he does.

    Ngannou, now a prominent figure in the world of combat sports beyond the UFC, offered his take on the situation while speaking with TMZ Sports. He hinted at possible behind-the-scenes negotiations influencing Jones’ decision.

    “I think there’s a negotiation situation here that’s involved that we don’t know all the ups and downs (about),” Ngannou said. “We all know the situation that they use in the negotiation to say, ‘Oh no, he doesn’t want to fight this guy – he’s scared.’ And then that’s how the machine works.”

    Ngannou pointed out that Jones holds significant leverage in determining his next fight, while Aspinall, as an emerging name, stands to gain much more from the potential matchup.

    “He’s in the position to claim what he wants, as he said. He said, ‘Aspinall needs that fight. I don’t need it.’ And when you look at it, it’s pretty much true. There’s nothing that he’s going to have more in that fight other than money. But for Aspinall, who’s someone coming and trying to cement his way in the division, that will be everything.”

    Ngannou’s comments shed light on the complexities of high-stakes negotiations in combat sports, where fighters balance legacy, risk, and financial incentives.

    As Jones weighs his options, fans will eagerly await confirmation of his next opponent — whether it’s a return to his light heavyweight roots against Pereira or a heavyweight unification clash with Aspinall.

  • Dana White Touts The Major Success UFC Had Because Of The COVID-19 Pandemic

    Dana White Touts The Major Success UFC Had Because Of The COVID-19 Pandemic

    During the global shutdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, most sports leagues went on hiatus for several months. However, organizations like the UFC and WWE resumed operations relatively quickly.

    The UFC utilized its Apex facility, conveniently located near its headquarters, to host events without fans in attendance. This setup proved ideal, as Nevada’s relatively lenient restrictions at the time allowed the UFC to avoid disruptions caused by stricter state mandates elsewhere.

    The UFC continues to hold Fight Night events at the Apex, though CEO Dana White has indicated a potential reduction in their frequency in 2025. White recently highlighted the pivotal role the Apex and the UFC’s quick adaptation played during the pandemic — a period that significantly contributed to the organization’s current success.

    “Going through COVID definitely didn’t hurt us,” Dana White told Bloomberg. “There were no sports on TV except for us. Fights that should have been doing 300,000 buys were doing a million. Our fan base grew something like 68 percent during COVID.”

    UFC Apex
    Image: UFC/Zuffa LLC

    Looking ahead, the UFC is showing no signs of slowing down. The organization has ambitious plans for 2025, including its first pay-per-view event at the state-of-the-art Intuit Dome near Los Angeles.

    Additionally, the UFC will return to Saudi Arabia for a major event on February 1 and begin negotiations for a new television deal.

  • Bisping Compares Jon Jones Dismissing Tom Aspinall To Jake Paul’s Boxing Approach

    Bisping Compares Jon Jones Dismissing Tom Aspinall To Jake Paul’s Boxing Approach

    After his latest victory, UFC heavyweight kingpin Jon Jones has once again been dismissing a clash with interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall, instead targeting a showdown with reigning light heavyweight titleholder Alex Pereira.

    However, UFC CEO Dana White isn’t sold on that matchup, believing Jones has a clear advantage over Pereira. On the other hand, “Bones” has stated that a fight against Aspinall would require a significant financial incentive to entice him.

    Former UFC fighter and analyst Michael Bisping weighed in on the situation during his Believe You Me podcast, voicing concern over Jones potentially bypassing tougher challenges like Aspinall in favor of perceived easier fights.

    “My only issue is, as a man and as a fighter, him saying he doesn’t have this obligation to fight these young, up-and-coming, hungry, dangerous guys that have an ability to beat him,” Bisping said. “I don’t get that. That’s what my problem is with Jake Paul.”

    Bisping elaborated on why a Jones vs. Pereira fight might not excite fans the same way a heavyweight clash with Aspinall would.

    “Fighting guys that [Jones] knows he can beat – Alex Pereira, he has a very blatantly obvious path to victory. He just took down Stipe. He took down Ciryl Gane. He will take down Alex Pereira. Would he be able to take down Tom? That’s the question. That’s the fight. That’s what we want to see.”

    With both potential matchups offering unique narratives, the decision now lies in the hands of Jones, the UFC, and the negotiating table.

  • Jorge Masvidal Sets Sights On Conor McGregor Or Leon Edwards For Return Fight

    Jorge Masvidal Sets Sights On Conor McGregor Or Leon Edwards For Return Fight

    Jorge Masvidal is gearing up for a return to competition and has his sights set on two marquee opponents: Conor McGregor or Leon Edwards. The former UFC title challenger retired from MMA in April 2023 but appears eager to make a high-profile comeback.

    Masvidal, currently on a four-fight losing streak, saw his skid begin in July 2020 when he lost a decision to Kamaru Usman for the welterweight title at UFC 251. Their rematch at UFC 261 in April 2021 ended with Usman delivering a devastating knockout to retain his belt.

    The Miami native then dropped a decision to Colby Covington at UFC 272 in March 2022 and again to Gilbert Burns at UFC 287 in April 2023. Following his MMA retirement, Masvidal ventured into boxing, where he lost a decision to Nate Diaz in July 2023.

    Speaking with MMA Junkie in Spanish, Masvidal explained why both McGregor and Edwards make sense as opponents, citing their winnability and storyline appeal.

    “I’d like for it to be Conor [McGregor] because I heard he also wants to fight on that same date,” Masvidal said. “He’s never mentioned my name because he knows I’ll rip his head off. However, if him and the UFC make that mistake, I’ll take his head off in Miami in April. But I don’t know if he wants it. He knows I’ll break him and make him look bad. I won’t take him down. I’ll strike with him and take him out of this orbit. He’s never mentioned my name, and it’s for a reason.”

    Masvidal also addressed the possibility of facing Leon Edwards, the current UFC Welterweight Champion, with whom he shares a heated history stemming from their infamous backstage altercation in 2019.

    “They’re saying [McGregor] might want to do it, but I’m chilling. If he wants to do it, great, I’ll kill him. If not, Leon Edwards. He and I have history, and it’s time to settle it. He’s not booked, and neither am I. Let’s go, sign the contract, and I’ll break your face.”

    Masvidal hinted at a possible April 2024 return, which could align with UFC’s plans for a major event in Miami.

  • Michael Chandler Targets Conor McGregor For UFC International Fight Week 2025

    Michael Chandler Targets Conor McGregor For UFC International Fight Week 2025

    Despite falling short in his previous outing, Michael Chandler remains focused on securing a long-awaited fight with Conor McGregor.

    Chandler last fought at UFC 309, where former UFC lightweight champion Charles Oliveira defeated him. Over his last six fights, Chandler holds a 2-4 record, with his most recent victory being a knockout of Tony Ferguson at UFC 274 in May 2022. That win earned him Performance of the Night honors. Later in the year, Chandler engaged in a grueling bout against Dustin Poirier at UFC 281, which was awarded Fight of the Night despite ending in a submission loss for Chandler.

    The highly anticipated matchup with McGregor was once within reach but ultimately fell apart. However, Chandler remains optimistic. While appearing on Bussin’ with the Boys, he expressed interest in reigniting the fight, targeting the summer of 2025.

    “I think me and Conor International Fight Week is the next fight,” Chandler said. “That’s what I’m throwing out there. I think June, July.”

    Chandler believes the fight is still on the table because both McGregor and the UFC want to finish the story they started on The Ultimate Fighter. He suggested that McGregor’s return to the octagon could lead directly to their long-awaited clash.

    “I’m not saying it’s a real reality, but I am saying if he does, his road comes straight through Nashville, Tennessee,” Chandler explained. “His road back to the UFC, we have to finish The Ultimate Fighter. The UFC wants us to finish it. Conor wants to fight me, and he can fight anybody. He made a commitment.

    “I’ve said this numerous times: I have no problem giving my opponents props. I think he is more sentimental and romantic about the sport than people give him credit for because he’s become this big, infamous brand. But he knows he’s nothing without the UFC octagon. He knows he’s nothing without the UFC. He was a plumber on welfare, sleeping on a couch. Without the UFC, he’s nothing. I don’t say that to take that away from him. We need our employers and brands to take us to the next level to create our lives.”

  • Francis Ngannou Waiting To See What PFL Offers Before Making Next Fighting Decision

    Francis Ngannou Waiting To See What PFL Offers Before Making Next Fighting Decision

    In his return to MMA, Francis Ngannou achieved a decisive victory over Renan Ferreira at PFL: Battle of the Giants. Now, fight fans are eager to see what the former UFC heavyweight champion has planned next for his career.

    Ngannou recently spoke with TMZ Sports about his future, revealing that his next fight is still undecided. He explained that the delay is due to his waiting for the PFL to present its next offer. If he doesn’t find their proposal appealing, Ngannou hinted at a potential return to boxing.

    “I will wait a couple of months to see if the PFL pulls something up. If not, I’ll see if there’s something in boxing. But it’s not like it’s top of mind—I know I can do either. Since we last spoke, nothing has changed. In my vision, if I have a couple of fights left, I’d like one of them to be in boxing.”

    There’s been speculation that Ngannou could face Jake Paul, the polarizing social media star-turned-boxer who recently scored a decision win over Mike Tyson. However, Ngannou made it clear he has no interest in such a matchup.

    “No, no, no, no. Come on. Don’t be silly,” he said dismissively. “Maybe if we put the two Paul brothers in the cage and locked it, there’d be something to do there. Come on. Respect me a little bit.”

  • Stipe Miocic Shares Heartfelt Message After UFC 309 Retirement

    Stipe Miocic Shares Heartfelt Message After UFC 309 Retirement

    Stipe Miocic fell short to UFC Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones in the main event of UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden. The fight concluded dramatically, with Jones landing a spinning back kick to Miocic’s body.

    Following the bout, the former two-time titleholder announced his retirement from the sport. Miocic later shared an emotional farewell message on Instagram, expressing gratitude to his team, family, and fans:

    “Let me start this post by saying I am good. Been through a lot worse. I hope everybody enjoyed the show on Saturday. What an incredible way to go out! I started this journey fighting in local bowling alleys & ended it selling out Madison Square Garden. It truly doesn’t get better than that. Sorry I didn’t get the W, but you can’t get them all. Sometimes it’s not your night; that is the nature of the beast. You can’t plan a perfect ending in this sport, but I guess the perfect ending is to have been lucky enough to do it at all. You all have given me so much, and I hope I did you all proud. Croatia & Cleveland, Ohio especially—I felt all of you with me at every battle.“

    Miocic extended heartfelt thanks to his coach Marcus Marinelli and the Strongstyle team, reflecting on their shared journey:

    “To Marcus Marinelli and the Strongstyle team: We started together, we finished together. We cried together & we bled together. If people only knew the whole story of everything we’ve been through… we could write a pretty badass novel. There is nobody else I would have shared this journey with… the best part is that we are family forever. Marcus, I know my father has passed, but I also know he appreciates you stepping in and being the father figure I needed in my life.“

    He went on to express love for his wife, children, and fans:

    “To my wife, you are my rock. The ship doesn’t sail without you. You sacrificed so much for this dream, and I love you. God knew I needed you & you motivate me more than anyone! To my kids, everything I have ever done is for the two of you. To my mom, I know this isn’t the career you would have chosen for me, but you have always been in my corner since day one—it was me & you.”

    Miocic concluded with gratitude to his fans and a playful note about retirement:

    “To the fans, you guys are the heartbeat of this sport. You are what makes MMA amazing! Without you, we fighters don’t even exist. The rush you gave me walking down to that octagon is forever engraved in my memory. Thank you for that. I’m not going anywhere—excited to start new projects, bring back the podcast, break down all my fights & share my reality with you! Until my next fight… just kidding, just kidding! Forever grateful. It’s been a hell of a ride!”

    Miocic, with a professional record of 20-5, leaves behind a storied career. Despite dropping his last two fights, including a knockout loss to Francis Ngannou at UFC 260, his legacy as one of the greatest heavyweights in UFC history is firmly established.

  • Dana White: Mike Tyson Was Right & I Was Wrong — Jake Paul Couldn’t Do S**t To Him

    Mike Tyson and Jake Paul faced heavy criticism following their highly anticipated fight on Friday night at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.

    The bout, which aired exclusively on Netflix, was plagued by streaming issues and an underwhelming performance that disappointed many fans as the fight went the distance.

    UFC CEO Dana White had expressed reservations about the event but chose not to dissuade his friend Tyson from participating. Reflecting on the fight, White commended Tyson for accurately assessing the matchup, predicting Paul would fail to knock him out despite the hype.

    “I told him, ‘Mike, you’re basically 60 years old,’ and he’s like, ‘You honestly think this f—ing kid’s gonna do anything to me? He’s not good. He’s not gonna f—ing knock me out. He’s not gonna do this. You saw him. He tripped when he was walking down to the ring. He had a hard time walking up the stairs. He had a knee brace on, and Jake Paul still couldn’t do anything to him. He made a ton of money, and I know people are mad. You stayed home on a Friday night, but you didn’t pay for it, you know what I mean?’”

    White further emphasized that Tyson’s presence guarantees profitability. He acknowledged Tyson’s savvy decision-making, even if the fight didn’t meet expectations.

    “Jake Paul couldn’t do s— to him. So he was right, and I was wrong,” White admitted. “(Dave) Portnoy went out and said it was the greatest con job of all time. But if you didn’t think that’s the way the fight would go — I don’t know what people expected. Mike’s almost 60 years old. He’s Mike Tyson, but he’s 60, and he knew Jake Paul couldn’t do anything to him.”

    Despite the controversy, the fight demonstrated Tyson’s enduring ability to captivate an audience and generate significant revenue.

  • Jon Jones Reiterates Desire To Fight Alex Pereira After UFC 309 Win: ‘I’m Not Worried About The Tom Fight’

    Jon Jones Reiterates Desire To Fight Alex Pereira After UFC 309 Win: ‘I’m Not Worried About The Tom Fight’

    If Jon Jones steps back into the Octagon, he’s made it clear he expects to be compensated handsomely. Following his dominant third-round victory over former champion Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, Jones addressed his future in the sport.

    The fight concluded with a spinning back kick to Miocic’s body, solidifying Jones’ position as one of MMA’s most formidable fighters. However, the conversation has now shifted to what—or who—comes next for the reigning heavyweight champion.

    Two potential matchups are on the table: a clash with interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall or a showdown with reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira. At the UFC 309 post-fight press conference, Jones made it clear which fight he prefers.

    “I’m not really worried about the Tom fight; I’m worried about the Pereira fight; that’s what I want to do,” Jones said. “I think if the UFC wants me back, that’s the fight they’ll make. I’ve been really clear about my intentions… I’ll retire the heavyweight belt if I have to. Give the dude what he wants at the end of the day. I feel like I’m at a place where I want to take super-fights. I don’t want to fight dangerous up-and-comers anymore. I want to fight dangerous, established champions. So, Tom can have the heavyweight championship; I don’t really care about it.”

    Jones also hinted at retirement if his terms aren’t met, stating, “One of the really good things about negotiating is being willing to walk away from a deal, and that’s the deal that I want. If that’s not what the fans want, I guess I’ll say Sayonara.”

    Additionally, Jones emphasized that he expects a lucrative payday, referencing his desire for “f—k you money,” should the UFC want him to fight Tom.

  • Dana White Reacts To Jon Jones’ UFC 309 Win: He’s The Best Pound-for-Pound Fighter In The World

    Fight fans were treated to an extraordinary performance from Jon Jones as he defeated former champion Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden.

    The dominant win culminated in the third round when Jones landed a spinning back kick to Miocic’s body, securing a spectacular finish. UFC CEO Dana White lauded Jones’ achievement, declaring it solid proof of his status as the greatest fighter in MMA history and the current best in the world.

    “This guy’s fight IQ is off the charts,” White said at the UFC 309 post-fight press conference. “Is everybody going to admit now he’s the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world? Let me tell you, this thing had upset written all over it. All the talk about Jon Jones—Stipe seemed pissed, focused, and he came here to win. He looked good, he was in phenomenal shape, and the list goes on. Jon picked him apart. … He looked incredible. I just don’t know how any of you guys don’t see how he’s the greatest fighter in the history of f*cking people fighting.”

    As for what’s next for Jones, his future plans remain uncertain. However, White suggested that a fight against rising star Tom Aspinall could be the biggest heavyweight bout in MMA history. Jones is leaning towards a fight with light heavyweight champ Alex Pereira.

  • Dana White On Khamzat Chimaev: ‘I Want Him To Fight For A Title Here In The United States’

    UFC CEO Dana White is keeping the hype alive for Khamzat Chimaev, whose meteoric rise in the MMA world continues to turn heads.

    At UFC 308, the undefeated star delivered a stunning performance, submitting former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker in the first round and breaking the Australian’s teeth in the process.

    Following this dominant victory, many believe Chimaev is now on a collision course with current middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. While White previously hinted that Sean Strickland was next in line for a title shot, Chimaev’s overwhelming display of skill has sparked speculation about a shift in plans.

    During an appearance on The Jim Rome Show, White praised Chimaev’s performance and hinted at big plans for the fighter.

    “He looked incredible. His manager was telling me before the fight that mentally, physically, and emotionally, he’s the best he’s ever been. He said, ‘I’m telling you, wait until you see him on Saturday,’ and he was right. He was dead on.

    “This guy’s never looked better, especially against the competition that he had. I’m looking forward to him getting a title fight in ’25. We’ll see how this plays out here, but I want him to fight in the United States. I want him to fight for a title here in the U.S.”

    With White’s endorsement and a flawless record, Chimaev’s path to a title fight appears inevitable. Whether it’s Du Plessis or another challenger standing across the Octagon, 2025 could mark the year Chimaev claims UFC gold.

  • Nick Diaz Out Of UFC 310, Themba Gorimbo Fills In To Fight Vicente Luque

    Nick Diaz Out Of UFC 310, Themba Gorimbo Fills In To Fight Vicente Luque

    Fan favorite Nick Diaz’s highly anticipated return to the Octagon has been delayed.

    Diaz was initially scheduled to face Vicente Luque at UFC 310 on Dec. 7, marking his first fight in over three years. However, the matchup has been scrapped as Diaz has officially withdrawn.

    Stepping in for the Stockton native, per MMA Mania’s Alex Behunin, Themba Gorimbo will now take on Luque at the event. While the UFC has not yet confirmed the new bout, an announcement is expected soon.

    Diaz last competed in September 2021 at UFC 266, where he suffered a TKO loss to Robbie Lawler. Before that, he endured a challenging stretch in his career, going 0-2-1. His losses include decision defeats to Carlos Condit at UFC 143 in 2012 and Georges St-Pierre at UFC 158 in 2013. Additionally, his 2015 bout with Anderson Silva at UFC 183 was overturned to a no contest after Silva failed a drug test.

    Gorimbo, who steps in for Diaz, boasts a professional record of 14-4 and is currently riding a four-fight winning streak. Since joining the UFC, Gorimbo has achieved a solid 4-1 record, with notable decision victories over fighters such as Ramiz Brahimaj and Niko Price.

    This reshuffle comes amid other significant changes to the UFC 310 lineup. A toe infection forced UFC Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad out of the main event, leading title challenger Shavkat Rakhmonov to pivot and now face Ian Garry.

    The event will be headlined by a UFC flyweight championship bout between current titleholder Alexandre Pantoja and challenger Kai Asakura.

  • Jon Jones: My Fight Against Stipe Miocic Has Become ‘Very Personal’

    Jon Jones: My Fight Against Stipe Miocic Has Become ‘Very Personal’

    Jon Jones is approaching his first UFC heavyweight title defense with a different mindset as he prepares to face Stipe Miocic in the main event of Saturday’s UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden.

    Although the two fighters had mutual respect for much of the lead-up to the fight, tensions have escalated. Jones has taken a more personal approach to the matchup due to Miocic’s alleged comments.

    The shift began when Miocic called Jones a “bitch,” a remark Jones did not take lightly. Matters escalated further when Miocic allegedly mentioned Jones’ children, which Jones interpreted as a direct attack on his family. However, Micoic has denied those remarks.

    “Everyone likes first responders, and I actually respect men and women in the armed forces and law enforcement, things like that,” Jones said during the UFC 309 press conference. “So I made it a point to try to be very respectful to him. But there’ve been two scenarios now. First, he said, ‘My kids will never look at me like I’m an asshole.’ That was a direct attack at me, my family, and my relationship with my kids. The second was him calling me a bitch. So, the respect is a little bit out the window, and we’ll see that on Saturday. It’s very personal to me, yes.” Don’t ever mention my kids again.

    Miocic replied, “I never mentioned your kids.” With these personal stakes adding fuel to the fire, fans can expect a charged performance from Jones as he looks to defend his title against the former UFC heavyweight champion.

  • Dana White: I Think Jon Will Eventually Come Back & Fight Tom Aspinall

    Dana White: I Think Jon Will Eventually Come Back & Fight Tom Aspinall

    Jon Jones is set to defend his UFC heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic in the main event of Saturday’s UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden. However, discussions about Jones’ future fights have taken center stage. There is speculation about potential matchups against UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira for a BMF title or against Tom Aspinall.

    Ahead of UFC 309, Jones stirred controversy by calling the interim heavyweight champion an “a**hole” and expressing disinterest in working with someone who engages in social media banter.

    In a recent interview on The Jim Rome Show, UFC CEO Dana White addressed Jones’ comments and his future in the sport.

    “I think Jon will eventually come back and fight Tom Aspinall. But, if he decides Saturday night, ‘That’s it, it’s over,’ it’s his right to make that decision. For anybody to say he’s ducking anybody… Jon Jones is 37, 38 years old, fought everybody, all the best in the world in their prime, and has been doing it since he was 23 years old. He doesn’t duck.”

    White added, “If he wins, he’ll disappear for a while, and that competitive spirit will start bubbling up again. If he doesn’t decide to retire, he will absolutely, positively fight Tom Aspinall. He’s not fighting [Alex] Pereira. If Jon Jones wants to fight again after Saturday night, he will fight Tom Aspinall.”