MMA News

Author: Harry Kettle

  • Dustin Poirier’s retirement: UFC veteran explains the brilliance of The Diamond

    Dustin Poirier’s retirement: UFC veteran explains the brilliance of The Diamond

    UFC veteran Matt Brown has explained what made Dustin Poirier so special ahead of The Diamond’s retirement fight at UFC 318.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will make the walk to the octagon for the final time. He is set to retire from mixed martial arts following his main event bout against Max Holloway, which will also see the BMF title being put on the line.

    One thing we know to be true about Dustin Poirier is that he’s an absolute warrior. While he may never have held the undisputed UFC title, he went in there and put on a show against just about everyone he faced. That, in itself, is a testament to who he is as a fighter.

    In a recent podcast, Matt Brown gave his thoughts on what made Dustin Poirier special.

    Matt Brown analyzes Dustin Poirier

    “I think Dustin really maximized everything he has, that he was born with,” Brown said. “I think he did a great job. When he came into the UFC, I remember after Conor [McGregor] beat him, I don’t think anybody thought Dustin Poirier was going to be s***. At that point, I remember interviews asking me what do you think about Conor McGregor? He really hasn’t fought anybody. We didn’t know what Dustin Poirier would be at that time, but I don’t think anybody looked at him like ‘wow this is the next big guy.’

    “He didn’t come in with insane gifts or anything. I love and respect that so much. I hope he has an amazing life after. I hope that his life treats him well. Maybe he gets some books, speaking tours, makes a lot of money and lives a great life, and I think he’s earned every f*cking minute of it.”

    Quotes via MMA Fighting

  • Derrick Lewis vs Tallison Teixeira: Chael Sonnen believes stoppage was accidental

    Derrick Lewis vs Tallison Teixeira: Chael Sonnen believes stoppage was accidental

    MMA analyst Chael Sonnen has given his thoughts on the stoppage in the UFC Nashville main event between Derrick Lewis and Tallison Teixeira.

    As we know, Derrick Lewis was able to defeat Tallison Teixeira via TKO in the very first round at UFC Nashville. However, the stoppage was considered to be controversial by some, with many believing that Teixeira would’ve been able to continue. He was, however, grabbing the fence on his way back up to his feet.

    In a recent video, Chael Sonnen weighed in on the Derrick Lewis vs Tallison Teixeira controversy with an interesting point of view.

    Chael Sonnen’s view on Derrick Lewis vs Tallison Teixeira stoppage

    “You have to watch the ending of that fight, fairly closely to see this. But there is a clear rule infraction not once, but twice, with the grabbing of the fence,” Sonnen said.

    “It changed the position, got him back up to his feet. A lot of times a referee will let an exchange finish and then make a ruling. Not in a case like that when you lose position, the ref has to step in right then and put Teixeira down, put the Black Beast on top of him, and they’ll continue from there. I don’t think he intended to call that a TKO, I don’t think he intended to stop that fight.

    “My own conspiracy, but I believe he was stopping the action to offer discipline, 1 point for the fence grab. Derrick starts celebrating, crowd starts reacting…all the makings of a TKO and my own belief is that they just went with it. I believe that’s what I saw! They called it an early stoppage because, well yeah, it wasn’t supposed to be a stoppage.”

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

    Do you agree? Let us know, fight fans.

  • Dustin Poirier’s Notorious Guard: Former UFC Champ Explains Why It Gives Fighters So Many Issues

    Dustin Poirier’s Notorious Guard: Former UFC Champ Explains Why It Gives Fighters So Many Issues

    MMA analyst and former fighter Dominick Cruz has given his thoughts on the guard of Dustin Poirier ahead of his retirement fight.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will make the walk to the octagon for the final time. He’ll do so in the main event of UFC 318 when he squares off with Max Holloway for the BMF title.

    With this being his last fight, a lot of fans and pundits have taken the time to analyze the overall quality of Dustin Poirier’s game and his body of work. After all, he’s been fighting at the elite level for a long time now, and there’s a great deal of tape on him and what he can do inside the cage.

    In a recent video, Dominick Cruz decided to break down several aspects of Dustin Poirier’s style, including his guard.

    Dominick Cruz’s view on Dustin Poirier’s guard

    “It’s like a mixture of like a Philly roll and a shoulder roll. Keeps his elbow up like this. And this stays planted. Because if you decide to come up with a high kick or an overhand, he’s blocked. He’s always right here. Overhand, he’s blocked.”

    “What makes Dustin Poirier really dangerous, too, is he’s pulling you. He’s trying to always do this to get you to reach and he’s so good at sliding back and you think you’re hitting this, but he’ll just take one little baby step back and he’ll clip you with this right hook and then that sets his sequence up.”

  • UFC 318 Is Missing Hot Sauce – MMA Insider Breaks it Down: ‘There’s very little flavor’

    UFC 318 Is Missing Hot Sauce – MMA Insider Breaks it Down: ‘There’s very little flavor’

    MMA analyst Luke Thomas has questioned the overall quality of this weekend’s UFC 318 pay-per-view event.

    As we know, UFC 318 takes place on Saturday night with the main event being Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight against Max Holloway. The two men will also compete for the BMF title, but of course, the bigger story is the fact that this is the last time we’ll see ‘The Diamond’ make the walk to the octagon.

    Beyond the main event, though, it’s safe to say that UFC 318 isn’t the most stacked event in the world. In a recent interview, the aforementioned Luke Thomas weighed in on the state of the card.

    Luke Thomas says UFC 318 is missing something

    “Who’s a star on that card? Who has any juice as a star on that card? And I’m talking like beyond the MMA bubble, which is what you’re considering. Who is somebody who you could pinpoint outside of the main event that you would look at and say future champion? Who is somebody who is doing something special in the sport…?”

    “It’s missing all of the things that make a pay-per-view special in the way that just the mechanical fight itself cannot. MMA is about—and fight sports more broadly are about—great fights for sure. I mean, if you don’t have that, you know, forget the rest of it. But the magic of fight sports is that plus… drama, plus aura, plus star power, plus rivalry, plus something that elevates the whole thing.”

    “It’s like getting some kind of delicious food and you know, the ingredients are high quality, but there’s like no sauce on it. You know what I mean? Like there’s no—there’s very little flavor. You didn’t put salt. You didn’t put the hot sauce or whatever.”

    Do you agree, fight fans?

  • Marvin Vettori Ready To Kill or Die in His Next UFC Bout In Memory of His Brother

    Marvin Vettori Ready To Kill or Die in His Next UFC Bout In Memory of His Brother

    UFC star Marvin Vettori has a kill or be killed mentality ahead of his UFC 318 collision with Brendan Allen this weekend.

    On Saturday night, Marvin Vettori will once again step into the cage to battle Brendan Allen. While it may be just another fight in the eyes of some fans, many know that this is far more important for the Italian sensation. That’s because he will be fighting for the first time since the death of his brother earlier this year.

    Marvin Vettori is an absolute warrior and we all know that to be true, but something as devastating as this is bound to impact you in unspeakable ways. He is a veteran in the Ultimate Fighting Championship and he always goes out there with the intention of putting on a show, but this is different.

    In a recent video, Marvin Vettori opened up about his mentality ahead of this contest.

    Marvin Vettori’s mentality ahead of UFC 318

    “It’s now or never. It’s a kill or be killed. That’s my mentality.

    “It’s not just for me. This fight is for everybody that is very close to me and for my brother, obviously, and he would have wanted me to do this, you know.

    “It’s the example that I set for him since the beginning and I refuse to be just miserable and just stay at home and just don’t do nothing.”

    Hopefully, we get the very best version of Vettori as he attempts to go out there and make a statement.

  • Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway: Daniel Cormier’s thoughts on who should put the BMF belt on the winner

    Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway: Daniel Cormier’s thoughts on who should put the BMF belt on the winner

    UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has given his thoughts on who should put the BMF title on the winner of Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway, depending on who picks up the victory.

    On Saturday night, Dustin Poirier will fight Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 318. The two will compete for the BMF title, in what will also serve as the final fight of Poirier’s career. As you can imagine, it’s expected to be a pretty emotional moment.

    Throughout the history of the BMF championship, some holders have had different people wrap the belt around their waist. Ahead of Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3, some are speculating that it could happen again.

    Daniel Cormier recently came up with an idea for both Dustin Poirier and Max Holloway regarding who would receive that honor.

    Daniel Cormier’s view on Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway

    “If Lil Wayne is walking him out, Lil Wayne should walk out there and put the belt on Dustin Poirier,” Cormier said on Good Guy / Bad Guy.

    “I think Lil Wayne should do it…

    Cormier went for something more personal for Holloway.

    “It’s kinda like personal because I watched the disappointment of the last fight,” Cormier referenced Holloway’s recent KO defeat.

    “I’d let his wife do it because they’re so close, and she means so much,” Cormier added.

    “I would let Max’s wife do it because I saw how sad they were after the last fight.

    “It’s not just Max fighting. It’s his entire team, his entire family. I would let his wife do it because of how much it means to the family, or I’d let his son do it. I’d let his wife or his son do it.

    “It’s gotta be one of those two to strap the belt on that man because I know what it meant when I walked into that locker room after that Ilia loss, I know what it would mean to one of them to do it,” Cormier said.

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

  • Conor McGregor mocks Mike Perry in tense BKFC face-off

    Conor McGregor came face to face with Mike Perry at a BKFC event yesterday as rumors continue to swirl regarding a possible future fight between the two men.

    As we know, Conor McGregor plays a pretty big role in the operation over at BKFC – or, at least, that’s how it seems. He also isn’t a big fan of Mike Perry, to the point where he even seemed to ‘fire’ him once upon a time. Now, though, ‘Platinum’ is back in BKFC, and it would appear as if they’re teasing the idea of these rivals actually battling it out in the ring.

    Conor McGregor hasn’t been in active competition since breaking his leg against Dustin Poirier four years ago, and it’s not quite clear as to if he’ll ever compete again. If he does, though, this would seem to indicate that Mike Perry is definitely a potential foe for him.

    Conor McGregor teases Mike Perry

    “You’re welcome back because I welcomed you back,” McGregor said, referencing when he claimed Perry was fired from BKFC after losing to Paul. “Oct. 11 is your date, and you’ll dance for me, boy. You’ll dance for the owner, and then we can talk.”

    “Your date is Oct. 11, Michael Perry, the return of ‘Platinum’, and we’ve got [one] hell of an announcement for an opponent for you,” McGregor teased. “One of the baddest men to ever grace the Ultimate Fighting Championship, but when it comes to bare-knuckle, he’s going to throw down with you in front of me for my viewing pleasure, and then I’ll decide if you’re worthy.”

    Quotes via MMA Fighting

  • Daniel Cormier reveals who hit him hardest in his MMA career

    UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has revealed who hit him the hardest throughout the course of his mixed martial arts career.

    It’s safe to say that Daniel Cormier is one of the greatest of all time. In addition to his wrestling credentials, he went on to become a two-weight world champion in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. There aren’t many fighters who can claim to have done that, and DC is within that group.

    He’s also taken on some of the hardest hitters in the history of the game. From Anthony Johnson to Derrick Lewis and beyond, Daniel Cormier has never been afraid to take someone on. He’s never been a guy who shies away from a challenge, which is one of the reasons why he’s so highly thought of.

    In a recent podcast, Daniel Cormier revealed who it was that actually hit him harder than anyone else when he was in the cage.

    Daniel Cormier talks about hardest hitter he’s faced

    “I think you and I could agree with one though, one guy that hit harder than just about everyone. Dan Henderson. Dan Henderson never got to hit me. He never really got to hit me outside of him being on his back and hitting me or in the clinch hitting me a couple of times. I could not believe how much impact he was making from such a short distance. I was like, ‘What is this dude made out of?’”

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

    God bless Dan Henderson and the violence he brought to this wonderful sport.

  • Jon Jones continues to tease the idea of UFC return for White House event

    Jon Jones continues to tease the idea of UFC return for White House event

    Former UFC fighter Jon Jones continues to tease the idea of a comeback, just a few weeks after announcing his retirement from mixed martial arts.

    One thing we’ve come to learn is that you should expect the unexpected with Jon Jones. He likes to keep the mixed martial arts world on its toes, and he doesn’t really care how he does it. For the longest time he was stringing Tom Aspinall along, not fighting him for the undisputed championship. Then, he retired, and it’s safe to say that a lot of people weren’t happy about that decision.

    For Jon Jones, trolling fans and critics alike is just what he does. He flip flops between one thought process and the other, and after it was announced that the UFC plans on taking an event to the White House, things have only ramped up even further.

    In a recent series of tweets, Jon Jones made it pretty clear that this is a venture he’s interested in pursuing – and you’d have to imagine he’ll be coming back to fight Tom Aspinall.

    Jon Jones teases return at UFC White House event

    “Donald made his announcement on the morning of the Fourth of July, I called the UFC headquarters that very same afternoon. I’ll just leave it at that. America! Now that tickles my pickle.”

    “It would be, for me it’s about the opportunity to represent America at the White House. I don’t care who I fight that night. I found my reason why, that’s what I needed, something that was more than money.”

    “Who knows what the future holds, but the moment I heard Donald Trump‘s announcement, I started training again.”

  • Joshua Van Says Loss Changed Everything: “The Greatest Thing That Ever Happened”

    Joshua Van Says Loss Changed Everything: “The Greatest Thing That Ever Happened”

    UFC flyweight contender Joshua Van has said that his knockout loss to Charles Johnson last year was one of the best things that could’ve happened to him.

    As we know, 23-year-old Joshua Van is the number one contender for the UFC flyweight championship. He looks set to challenge Alexandre Pantoja for the belt in a fight that pits the old guard against the new, with many wondering whether or not Van has what it takes to become one of the youngest UFC champions of all time.

    However, while he may be on a great five-fight win streak, Joshua Van has two losses to his name – both by finish. In the latest of those two defeats, he was knocked out by Charles Johnson last year in what was fairly surprising for those who always knew his full potential.

    In a recent interview, Joshua Van spoke candidly about how losing in such a way actually helped him grow.

    Joshua Van reveals impact of defeat

    “It was just the faith thing. The loss was the greatest thing that ever happened to me, because if not, I would have been out of the world—get a big head and things like that. I got humble real quick. Now, I never want to go back to that type of moment. So, I’m just staying in my lane, doing what coach is telling me to do, so that none of that type of thing will ever happen to me again.”

    Get ready, folks, because a new star is rising.

  • Alexander Volkanovski admits he suffered bad concussion against Islam Makhachev

    Alexander Volkanovski admits he suffered bad concussion against Islam Makhachev

    UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has spoken candidly about the concussion he suffered in his short notice rematch against Islam Makhachev.

    As we know, Alexander Volkanovski is one of the most beloved fighters in recent memory. He made history as featherweight champion during his first run and now, he has the belt back once again. With that being said, prior to his triumph over Diego Lopes, he suffered nasty knockout losses at the hands of Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria.

    While some may think that the Topuria defeat was worse, Alexander Volkanovski himself has revealed that he got a pretty bad concussion off the back of losing the rematch to Makhachev.

    Alexander Volkanovski reveals Islam Makhachev concussion

    “I had a decent concussion from Islam,” Volkanovski said on Demetrious Johnson’s MightyCast. “I feel like I had more of a concussion from the Islam one. Even though I was knocked out longer with Ilia, I had a lot more of the symptoms with the Islam one. … So I didn’t have head contact [training afterward], but then when you’re easing into it, now you’re easing into it, making sure you’re not getting hit. Trying to put yourself in safer positions and you even start camp wrong. I should have had the break.”

    “I can accept the situation and I’ll tell myself to make it work even though it’s probably not going to,” Volkanovski said. “I’m telling you, I went in there [ahead of the Makhachev rematch] going I’m going to be more dangerous now because I’m at 11 days. I literally told myself that. … I’m literally like, ‘This is the most dangerous you’ve seen me.’ I’m not beating him by decision, I have to go, I’m going to have to be more aggressive, I’m going to take more risks, and I literally believed it.”

    Quotes via MMA Fighting

  • Max Holloway reveals why he was happy to see Ilia Topuria move to lightweight

    Max Holloway reveals why he was happy to see Ilia Topuria move to lightweight

    UFC veteran Max Holloway has explained why he was so happy to see that Ilia Topuria opted to make the move up to the lightweight division.

    As we know, Max Holloway is one of the most exciting featherweight fighters of all time. However, in his last fight in the weight class, he was knocked out by Ilia Topuria – who proceeded to announce that he was moving up to lightweight to try and claim a second belt. He achieved that goal, whereas ‘Blessed’ will be returning to the cage later this month to face Dustin Poirier in the latter’s retirement bout.

    Max Holloway is a warrior and we all know that to be true, and in a recent interview, he made it known once again that he wants to meet ‘El Matador’ again.

    Max Holloway reveals his happiness at Ilia Topuria’s lightweight move

    “(How a fight would go between us at 155lbs?) we’ll just have to find out, right?” Holloway told MMA Junkie.

    “A 155lb fight? We’re just gonna have to find out. First things first, I was over the moon, a lot of people thought I’d be like ‘Oh my god, what the hell, why is he coming to 155lbs?’ I was over the moon when he announced he’s coming to 155lbs.

    “And then when I found out he got the title shot, I was like ‘Oh my gosh’. Even the title shot with both of them, when they announced Oliveira and Topuria for the title shot, I think I was the happiest man alive because I have history with two guys.

    “I know (Ilia) likes walking around with a BMF title but if he wants an authentic one he knows where to find me,” Holloway continued.

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

  • Islam Makhachev’s welterweight move: Stephen Thompson provides interesting analysis

    Islam Makhachev’s welterweight move: Stephen Thompson provides interesting analysis

    UFC legend Stephen Thompson has given his thoughts on Islam Makhachev‘s impending move from the lightweight division to welterweight.

    As we know, Islam Makhachev is no longer the UFC lightweight champion. He gave up that belt in order to pursue a second world title up at 170 pounds. It’s an achievement that only a handful of fighters have to their name, and Islam wants to join that incredibly exclusive group.

    We all know that Islam Makhachev is one of the most exciting fighters in the sport today, and he’s also one of the pound-for-pound best. Alas, adding 15 pounds is certainly going to change the conversation, especially when going up against a guy as formidable as Jack Della Maddalena.

    In a recent interview, welterweight Stephen Thompson gave his thoughts on Islam Makhachev’s decision to make the switch.

    Stephen Thompson’s view on Islam Makhachev’s welterweight switch

    “Well, number one, if I was in the top-five, I would be very upset that this guy who just got the title is already looking at somebody from a different division,” Thompson told MMA Fighting. “If it was me who, if I’m in the top-five, more deserving than this guy coming up, like I’ve been waiting here.

    “Now, I think it’s a good fight,” Thompson explained. “I think it’s a very tough fight for Islam Makhachev coming up. [Della Maddalena’s] a bigger guy, a guy with great takedown defense, and a guy who just won the title from somebody very similar to himself in Belal Muhammad. Cardio for days, strong grappling background.

    “I do believe that Islam has a better striking than than Belal does, so I think that would be interesting, but I think it’s a very tough fight for Islam, for sure.”

    Quotes via MMA Fighting

  • Alexander Volkov’s Unexpected Adventures Outside the Octagon: Power Slap Coach for a Day?

    Alexander Volkov’s Unexpected Adventures Outside the Octagon: Power Slap Coach for a Day?

    UFC heavyweight Alexander Volkov has spoken about his recent experience as a coach in Power Slap as he prepares to make his return to the cage.

    As we know, Alexander Volkov is one of the top contenders in the UFC’s heavyweight division. He has achieved some incredible things in the sport of mixed martial arts but up to this point, he hasn’t been able to get over the finish line when it comes to winning a world title. Following his controversial split decision loss to Ciryl Gane in his last outing, he opted to take some time off and reflect on what he needs to do in order to break through that glass ceiling.

    For Alexander Volkov, it seems as if that included going on some side quests. He even popped up as a coach during a Power Slap event which, as we know, ties in very well with the UFC due to the influence of Dana White.

    In a recent interview, Alexander Volkov spoke candidly about the experience and how much fun he had.

    Alexander Volkov reveals slap fighting side quest

    “I don’t know, it’s just myself—my style of life. I usually do a lot of funny things with my friends everywhere. When I came to the US, I had more time to make videos, create content. I just do it for fun, with no purpose or hype.”

    “One day I was cornering a fighter from Russia in Power Slap. I trained with him for a week, and he won the fight with just one slap, knocked the guy out. After his fight, I put in my bio: I’m a Power Slap coach now. It was fun.”

  • Derrick Lewis Breaks All the Rules Fight Week: Shrimp, Grits, and a Heavyweight Mystery

    Derrick Lewis Breaks All the Rules Fight Week: Shrimp, Grits, and a Heavyweight Mystery

    UFC star Derrick Lewis has opened up on his current diet as he prepares to return to the cage on Saturday night to battle Tallison Teixeira.

    In the main event of UFC Nashville this weekend, Derrick Lewis will once again take on a rising contender in the heavyweight division. The 40-year-old will be throwing down with Tallison Teixeira, who is currently undefeated in his mixed martial arts career. While we all know just how dangerous Teixeira can be, he’d be foolish to overlook the incredible power of ‘The Black Beast’.

    For the longest time, Derrick Lewis has been known as one of the funniest fighters in the UFC – and, in fact, the entire sport. He says and does things that constantly get fans cracking up, but on the flip side of that, he’s also an unbelievably talented fighter who is able to knock out the very best heavyweights on the planet.

    In a recent interview, Derrick Lewis opened up on his current weight ‘cut’ as we get closer and closer to fight night.

    Derrick Lewis discusses fight week meals

    “I’m on weight right now. So, I’m happy. I’ve been eating shrimp and grits. I’ve been eating whatever I want this whole week. So, it’s like—it’s crazy. I’ve never been able to do that before.”

    Lewis knows that all he needs is one shot to shut his opponent’s lights off, no matter how good we all believe Teixeira to be. In the heavyweight division, you can’t afford to blink, so we’d advise you don’t when watching this one unfold on Saturday.

  • Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev: UFC icon hints at upset win

    Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev: UFC icon hints at upset win

    UFC legend Stephen Thompson has explained why he believes Dricus du Plessis has a great chance of defeating Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319, despite many believing he can’t get the job done.

    For the longest time now, fight fans have been doubting Dricus du Plessis – and every single time, at least since he arrived in the UFC, they’ve been made to pay for it. He is one of the most unconventional fighters out there but he’s also turning into one of the most exciting champions on the roster, especially after successfully defending his belt twice.

    Now, though, Dricus du Plessis faces an entirely new kind of challenge in the form of Khamzat Chimaev. This was always going to be a tough test for him no matter how you try and spin it, and while we know what the South African is capable of, we also know that Chimaev has the ability to finish anyone in the blink of an eye.

    In a recent interview, the aforementioned Stephen Thompson gave an interesting analysis of the upcoming Dricus du Plessis vs Khamzat Chimaev showdown.

    Stephen Thompson backs Dricus du Plessis to defeat Khamzat Chimaev

    “Oh man, I think it’s a tough one for Khamzat. Du Plessis, his awkwardness makes him very difficult to deal with. He’s got great grappling. He’s a very strong opponent. If he can weather the storm in a five-round fight, I’m leaning towards Du Plessis.”

    Get ready, fight fans, because this one has the potential to be truly chaotic.

  • The 25-Minute Test: Cory Sandhagen’s Mental Gameplan for Merab Dvalishvili

    The 25-Minute Test: Cory Sandhagen’s Mental Gameplan for Merab Dvalishvili

    UFC star Cory Sandhagen has spoken candidly about the mental aspect of preparing to battle UFC bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili in a 25-minute war.

    As we know, Cory Sandhagen appears to be the new number one contender for the UFC bantamweight championship. While Merab Dvalishvili has done a remarkable job as champion up to this point, Sandhagen will firmly believe that he has what it takes to snatch the belt from ‘The Machine’.

    Regardless of whether or not you agree with that assessment, he’s going to be preparing for the fight of his life. The bantamweight division is as stacked as it has been in a long time, and it speaks volumes to Cory’s abilities that he’s been able to earn this opportunity.

    Ahead of fight night, Cory Sandhagen has opened up on what he’s expecting when he gets in there with Dvalishvili.

    Cory Sandhagen prepares for battle

    “I think a major key component to fighting Merab is going to be to make sure that I’m the one leading the dance. I need to mentally keep up with the pace he sets, and also mentally keep up when I get tired—because everyone gets tired in fights. My brain has to be ready to handle Merab for 25 minutes.”

    Cory Sandhagen has been so close to reaching the top of the mountain in the past but now, he’s on the verge of making history. Sure, he’ll be going up against a seemingly unstoppable champion, but this is mixed martial arts we’re talking about – and anything can happen.

  • Kayla Harrison Silences Critics with UFC Gold: ‘It Feels Pretty Damn Good – Shut The Hell Up’

    UFC star Kayla Harrison has opened up on how it feels to have shut up her critics once and for all after she captured the UFC women’s bantamweight championship.

    In the co-main event of UFC 316, Kayla Harrison finally reached the top of the mountain in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. She was able to submit and defeat Julianna Pena, capturing the bantamweight crown in the process. Now, she’s gearing up for an even bigger challenge as she prepares to welcome Amanda Nunes back to the promotion.

    It’s set to be a battle of epic proportions, but of course, Kayla Harrison has earned the right to take some time off and bask in the glory of her recent triumph. It’s especially important for her to do so after people doubted her abilities for so many years, suggesting she wasn’t fighting the best of the best in the PFL.

    In a recent interview, Kayla Harrison was more than happy to send a message to those who tried to put her down.

    Kayla Harrison’s message to her critics

    “It feels pretty damn good. I’m not going to lie. It’s not even that—now, everybody can just shut the hell up. You know, I did it.”

    Soon, it’ll be time for Kayla Harrison to re-group and focus on the biggest fight of her life. While this could potentially be an entirely new version of Amanda Nunes that she’ll be facing, she can’t afford to be complacent – especially given how many eyes are going to be in this superfight.

  • Stephen Thompson Discusses The Gatekeeper’s Gambit: Why Does Everyone Want a Shot at Wonderboy?

    Stephen Thompson Discusses The Gatekeeper’s Gambit: Why Does Everyone Want a Shot at Wonderboy?

    UFC legend Stephen Thompson has given his thoughts on being called a gatekeeper in the welterweight division.

    This weekend, Stephen Thompson will return to the cage when he goes head to head with Gabriel Bonfim. It serves as yet another example of the 42-year-old veteran giving an opportunity to a younger guy as he attempts to prove that he still has what it takes to compete at the elite level.

    Regardless of whether or not you think he should still be competing in the UFC, there’s no denying that Stephen Thompson is one of the easiest fighters to like in the entire sport. He carries himself with grace and dignity, and he always goes in there with the intention of putting on a show.

    In a recent interview, Stephen Thompson opened up on how it feels to be in the position of testing just how good these younger guys really are.

    Stephen Thompson gets honest

    “I’m kind of like the go-to guy when it comes in the welterweight division… I’m notorious for giving these guys a shot, right? I did it with Vicente Luque, Geoff Neal, Kevin Holland. You know, I’m just the guy to allow these guys to come up and test themselves.”

    The man known as ‘Wonderboy’ will continue to do his job for as long as the UFC allows, and for as long as his body continues to hold up. Hopefully, he’s able to go in there on Saturday and – at the very least – show the best version of himself.

  • Behind the Gloves: Paddy Pimblett Explains Why Hollywood Gets Fighting All Wrong

    UFC star Paddy Pimblett has explained why he doesn’t tend to be a big fan of Hollywood movies about combat sports.

    Throughout the course of his career, Paddy Pimblett has done a great job of building up his star power and general name value. He is one of the most valuable assets that the Ultimate Fighting Championship has at its disposal right now, and there’s a very real chance that he’ll soon be competing against Ilia Topuria for the UFC lightweight title.

    Of course, while he may be quite marketable, Paddy Pimblett rarely holds back from voicing his thoughts on the world. ‘The Baddy’ has no filter whatsoever and whether you love him or you hate him, one thing is for sure – you’re always going to get an honest opinion out of him.

    So, when Paddy Pimblett was asked about his favourite fighting-based Hollywood movies, he certainly didn’t mince his words.

    Paddy Pimblett discusses Hollywood fighting movies

    “Most fighting movies are s***, aren’t they? You know what I mean? Most of them are s***. But you’d probably have to say The Fighter, ’cause it’s not realistic, but a little bit. And I’ll probably use a boxing one like Raging Bull, Million Dollar Baby, you know what I mean? Stuff like that. I wouldn’t use Rocky.”

    For Paddy Pimblett, it doesn’t seem like Hollywood is going to be on the cards for him. Still, if the right offer came in, you’d have to think he’d at least consider it – especially if he wins the strap.

  • Derrick Lewis’ Game Plan Out the Window: What Happens When He Enters the Cage?

    Derrick Lewis’ Game Plan Out the Window: What Happens When He Enters the Cage?

    UFC heavyweight Derrick Lewis has explained what kind of game plan he has when he enters the cage.

    For the longest time now, Derrick Lewis has been an ever-present member of the UFC’s heavyweight division. He has already done some incredible things at the elite level and this Saturday night, he’ll head back into the lion’s den when he locks horns with Tallison Teixeira.

    As we know, Derrick Lewis is a huge fan favorite in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. Although it may seem like he’s in the twilight of his career, he has two wins in his last three, and another knockout at the weekend could really put the cat among the pigeons.

    In a recent interview, Derrick Lewis gave an insight into what his mindset is when he gets in there to compete.

    Derrick Lewis discusses his game plan during fights

    “Whenever that cage door closes, I turn into a completely different person. So, ain’t no telling what can happen. The game plan, everything might be out of the window that day. So, I don’t know what’s going to happen.”

    ‘The Black Beast’ is as unpredictable as he’s ever been and at this point in his career, it feels like he’s going in there to have some fun and make some money. Sure, he could have a title on his mind, but he clearly wants to put on exciting fights for the fans to enjoy.

    Buckle up, folks, because there are plenty of fireworks coming around the next corner.

  • Kayla Harrison: ‘Send a Location’ Is the Amanda Nunes Fight Closer Than We Think?

    Kayla Harrison: ‘Send a Location’ Is the Amanda Nunes Fight Closer Than We Think?

    UFC women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has made it crystal clear that she is ready for her superfight with Amanda Nunes as fans await an official announcement regarding a date and location.

    After defeating Julianna Pena to win the belt at UFC 316, Kayla Harrison found herself immediately facing off with her next opponent – the GOAT Amanda Nunes. It’s safe to say that this is now one of the most highly anticipated fights in the history of women’s mixed martial arts, and nobody really knows how it’s going to go.

    As we wait for more information on the fight, Kayla Harrison noted in a recent interview that she’s ready, even though it may be a while before we get to see it.

    Kayla Harrison is ready for Amanda Nunes

    “Obviously, Amanda’s next. We spoke to her at the Hall of Fame yesterday. She says Q4. But she’s not in the drug testing pool yet, so she might not be able to fight till Q1 of next year.

    “I’m sure they’re talking to Ali and letting him know about everything. That’s why I pay him the big bucks—so I don’t have to think about stuff like that. I just show up, train, work hard, stay ready. Send a location, I’ll be ready.”

    Harrison is a warrior and she won’t mind waiting until Nunes is 100% ready to go. Regardless of when this fight happens, it absolutely needs to be a pay-per-view main event – and the UFC needs to give it the kind of promotion and hype that it deserves.

  • Molly McCann on Boxing’s Brutal Learning Curve: ‘It’s Hard to Switch Off Old Habits’

    Molly McCann on Boxing’s Brutal Learning Curve: ‘It’s Hard to Switch Off Old Habits’

    Former UFC star Molly McCann has spoken about her transition from mixed martial arts to professional boxing.

    As we know, Molly McCann was a pretty popular figure within the UFC. She had a series of highlight reel knockouts and alongside that, fans were captured by her personality – as well as her friendship with Paddy Pimblett. Unfortunately, after a poor run of form, ‘Meatball’ walked away from MMA – but she didn’t leave combat sports entirely.

    Fast forward to the present day and Molly McCann has signed a multi-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing. After the announcement, she spoke candidly in an interview about what the transition has been like up to this point.

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y23jdEBqjcI

    Molly McCann discusses boxing transition

    “There was a lot of that that came, which was probably a lot more money, but that’s just not— I didn’t retire from the UFC to go and fight in, sorry, I shouldn’t say B-leagues, like circus kind of stuff with influencers. My body couldn’t sustain MMA, but it can still compete at the highest level. The dream for me is to always win a boxing world title.”

    “I wouldn’t always advise an MMA fighter to box because we’re so used to not too much head movement—you’re going to get kneed or kicked in the head. To have to relearn that is hard. That’s the toughest part: to not be switched off in those moments.”

    McCann has always been a passionate fighter and although she’s starting her journey late, it’ll be interesting to see how far she can go.

  • Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall: The White House Showdown That Could Rewrite History “1776 All Over Again

    Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall: The White House Showdown That Could Rewrite History “1776 All Over Again

    UFC commentator Michael Bisping has given his thoughts on Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall potentially taking place after all – at the White House.

    As we know, Jon Jones decided to retire from mixed martial arts just a few short weeks ago. However, he then proceeded to tease the idea of a comeback, implying that he’s re-entered the UFC testing pool. Regardless of whether or not you’re a fan of him, it’s safe to say that the majority of MMA hardcore fans aren’t happy by his indecisiveness.

    In a recent video on his YouTube channel, the aforementioned Michael Bisping weighed in on the Jon Jones/Tom Aspinall ordeal.

    Michael Bisping’s view on Jon Jones vs Tom Aspinall

    “I don’t know if Jon’s having a laugh, if he’s being silly, if he’s just taking the piss, or if he’s actually serious. I mean, what has changed in two weeks’ time? Of course, Trump talking about a fight at the White House. Maybe that’s it. I don’t think it is that. I do think that he would want to fight at the White House, and I’m sure every single fighter is going to want to do that.”

    “Of course, him versus Tom Aspinall—England versus USA, 1776 all over again at the White House. Unbelievable. Of course that should be top of the bill, right? But is that really what’s going on? Is it just the fact that they’re going to do a fight at the White House or has something else changed? The fact that he’s re-entered the testing pool means he’s not messing around.”

  • Max Holloway is backed to beat Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 by top lightweight star

    Max Holloway is backed to beat Dustin Poirier at UFC 318 by top lightweight star

    UFC star Paddy Pimblett believes Max Holloway has a great chance of defeating Dustin Poirier in the latter’s retirement fight at UFC 318.

    Later this month, Max Holloway will take on Dustin Poirier with the BMF title being on the line. It will serve as the third and final time that they collide, and currently, Poirier holds a 2-0 lead in the series. With that being said, ‘Blessed’ is on the hunt for a return to winning ways after being knocked out by Ilia Topuria in his last outing.

    Ahead of fight night, Paddy Pimblett has become the latest lightweight to give his opinion on how this one is going to play out.

    Paddy Pimblett backs Max Holloway

    “It would be heavy for Holloway if there’s two different fighters who have beat him three times,” Pimblett said on the “Verse Us Podcast” with Eric Nicksick. “I’ve seen him say something like, ‘He took a lot from me, he gave me my first loss, and he took away my win streak, so I’m going to take his retirement fight.’

    “I think Holloway’s motivated. I can see Holloway winning, to be honest. Don’t know why. I think it’s just one of them. Dustin fighting in his hometown, his last fight, everyone expects him to win, the pressure. I think he might (win). You might think it’s a bit more favorable because he beat him twice, though.”

    Quotes via MMA Junkie

    Get ready, fight fans – because Dustin Poirier vs Max Holloway 3 could prove to be a classic.