MMA News

Author: Harvey Leonard

  • Khamzat Chimaev Unhappy About Leaked Training Footage

    UFC welterweight Khamzat Chimaev is far from amused at the recent footage of him training at the renowned Tiger Muay Thai gym in Phuket, Thailand.

    Having risen to prominence in the UFC with four dominant first-round finishes, including a submission victory over ranked welterweight Li Jingliang at UFC 267 last October, Chimaev is looking to contend for gold on MMA’s biggest stage soon.

    With that in mind, he’s continuing his pursuit of development and growth by training with some of the best in the game.

    Ahead of his first challenge of 2022, “Borz” has been training alongside the likes of UFC lightweight Rafael Fiziev, interim bantamweight titleholder Petr Yan, 135-pound contender Marlon Moraes, Bellator Welterweight Champion Yaroslav Amosov, and ONE Championship kickboxers Chingiz Allazov and Roman Kryklia.

    He’s certainly not short of talented sparring partners during his time in Asia…

    Chimaev Discusses The Biggest “Mess” At Tiger Muay Thai

    While he’s working with some of the best MMA and Muay Thai coaches in the game during his stint in Thailand, the experience isn’t all positive for Chimaev. During a recent interview with RT Sport MMA, the #11-ranked UFC welterweight discussed the biggest issue at Tiger Muay Thai: the cameras.

    “It’s hard to keep any secrets here, everybody has a camera,” said Chimaev. “Every time I am doing pad work or rolling, everyone around starts filming. Kind of a mess here in the gym. I don’t get it.”

    While the host of professionals developing their trade at the gym is often publicized, Chimaev suggested the number of amateur fighters significantly outweighs the pros. With that, the Chechen-born Swede says, comes an incessant amount of filming, something the gym doesn’t restrict.

    “The thing is, there are much more amateur fighters around than pro fighters. They keep filming all the time,” added Chimaev. “They don’t understand that it’s a bad idea to film sparring sessions and post them. They don’t have any strict rules about filming. No such rules. It’s probably good for the gym. People make videos, post them on social media, and the gym becomes popular.

    “But as for our gym (Allstar Training Center), you can’t film there,” Chimaev continued. “We have a lot of videos from our gym, but nobody has ever posted them during the four years I have trained there. Here, nobody cares about it. I am busy with training, so I can’t take care of all those cameras around. It’s not good.”

    Describing just how bad the level of recording is at Tiger Muay Thai, Chimaev joked that he could drop a glove and a video of it would end up online. “Borz” suggested gyms must control filming in order to prevent out-worked sparring partners getting upset at leaked footage.

    “If I outwrestle a guy, he won’t be happy to see that footage online. I am a famous person. I may even drop a glove on the floor or jump; they post it right away, ‘Look, Khamzat Chimaev is jumping!’ When they tag me on Instagram, I see it all. Some guys who are on my level may get upset after all those videos get posted. Some guys are more skilful than others, so you have to control the cameras to not let your friends get upset,” concluded Chimaev. (Translated by RT Sport)

    Perhaps a prime example of the footage Chimaev is referring to came in the form of a recent video that showed him dropping a sparring partner with a vicious body shot. Seemingly to keep his development and progress close to his chest, and protect his training partners, Chimaev believes foootage such as that should remain private.

    One man who may be keeping a close eye on Chimaev’s progression at Tiger Muay Thai and any leaked footage is top-five contender Gilbert Burns. While nothing is confirmed, “Durinho” appears set to be the next man in the way of Chimaev’s rapid rise to the top.

    Given the above video, it appears Burns would do well to avoid too many shots to the body…

    Do you agree with Khamzat Chimaev? Should gyms control filming and prevent training leaks?

  • Israel Adesanya Pleaded With Jared Cannonier To Beat Derek Brunson

    UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya has revealed the encouragement he gave to top contender Jared Cannonier ahead of UFC 271.

    Two of this weekend’s biggest fights on pay-per-view saw crucial middleweight clashes go down. While the reigning king ran it back with former rival Robert Whittaker in the main event, top-five veterans Cannonier and Derek Brunson collided earlier in the night, with a title shot seemingly on the line.

    Towards the end of the opening round, it appeared the undefeated run of “Blonde” Brunson was set to continue. But after the round-ending horn cut short a rear-naked choke attempt, the tide turned.

    “The Killa Gorilla” came out in the second and made the most of his stand-up advantage. After one early shot appeared to affect Brunson’s movement and posture, Cannonier went in for the kill.

    With a vicious elbow and clean backhand, the #3-ranked 185lber rocked his counterpart and sent him to the ground. From there, some sickening elbows signaled the end.

    Adesanya Gets His Fresh Meat

    While predictions were largely split heading into the contest, with many backing Brunson’s previous form and five-fight win streak, one man was firmly supporting Cannonier on fight night—that man being the champ.

    Having already faced and defeated Brunson on his way to the title in 2018, as well as dispatching most other contenders in the weight class, “The Last Stylebender” favored the idea of facing a fresh challenge next.

    During his appearance at the UFC 271 post-fight press conference, which came after he successfully defended the middleweight gold for the fourth time, Adesanya revealed the encouragement he gave Cannonier during fight week.

    “I just saw bits and pieces. I think he even got rocked. I saw he got taken down, and then he elbowed Brunson. And so I didn’t really take stock. I’ll go back and watch the fight later on and see what it is,” said Adesanya. “But he made a statement. And I even told him after the weigh-ins, I said, ‘Look, please take this guy out so I can get some fresh meat.’ And he said, ‘Bro, I’m trying to work.’ I said, ‘Me, too.’ So I’m a man of my word.”

    With apparent post-fight confirmation from all parties, including UFC President Dana White, it seems Adesanya’s next challenger is locked in. Targeting a June return, “The Last Stylebender” looks set to have the chance to add another name to his résumé in the form of Cannonier.

    Would you like to see Israel Adesanya’s Next Fight be against Jared Cannonier?

  • Sonnen: Strickland Is Misinterpreting Laughter For Support

    Former two-division UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen believes middleweight contender Sean Strickland is misinterpreting the reaction to his outgoing personality.

    Since returning to the Octagon from a two-year absence in 2020, Strickland has quickly risen up the 185-pound ladder, developing both his status as a contender and prominence across the fanbase in the process. But while his fighting has certainly done some talking, his mouth has done a significant amount more.

    Before and after his latest victory, a five-round decision triumph over Jack Hermansson at UFC Vegas 47, “Tarzan” put his controversial nature on full display. In the past, Strickland has drawn flak for his remarks about homosexuality and apparent desire to kill a fellow fighter.

    While some praise the #6-ranked middleweight for his lack of censorship and willingness to speak his mind, others believe he routinely crosses the line.

    Sonnen Thinks Strickland Is Going In The Wrong Direction

    Perhaps surprisingly, one man who has warned Strickland about the path he’s going down is Sonnen. Not many fighters have played up to a ‘heel’ character quite like the former middleweight and light heavyweight contender.

    But while he acknowledges the need to accentuate a character in order to rise the ranks, the 44-year-old has suggested it’s time for Strickland to tone it down now that he’s reached title contention.

    During a recent video uploaded to his YouTube channel, Sonnen warned Strickland that he’s misinterpreting the laughter from fans and pundits as support. Instead, the Oregon native believes many are uncomfortable with the 30-year-old’s antics and are usually laughing at him, not with him.

    “Sean is a character, man. He’s doing a gimmick, he’s a character, he’s an entertainer. It makes me nervous,” said Sonnen. “I think he’s going in the wrong direction. I think there was a time for that, to get some focus, to get some attention, to get the better fights, to work your way up the card. Once you get there, you can now go down main street.

    “There’s always room for a straight man, for sure. You start playing that game, and I made a living playing that game, it’s a risky one,” added Sonnen. “I think Sean makes some people uncomfortable. I know everyone’s laughing and everyone’s cheering him on, but I don’t think they’re really supporting him. I think they’re laughing at him. I think they’re in shock at what he’s doing. I think he’s misinterpreting it.”

    Interestingly, Strickland has followed a different route. Rather than playing up to a character in order to rise the MMA ladder, Strickland recently suggested he suppressed his personality early in his career in order to ensure he was signed by the UFC. Now that he’s at the top, he feels the freedom to say what he wants.

    Sonnen is not the first to speak out against Strickland’s mindset and controversial statements. Last week, top-five contender Derek Brunson criticized “Tarzan” for his remarks, suggesting he hopes his UFC peer can change his ways soon.

    Given Strickland’s recent posts on social media, and promise to go “full McGregor” if he becomes champion, an adjustment or alteration seems unlikely.

    Do you agree with Chael Sonnen? Should Sean Strickland adjust his attitude?

  • Chris Weidman: I Know I Can Shock The World Again

    Despite his horrific injury last year, former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman is as hungry as ever to find success inside the Octagon.

    In the immediate aftermath of the UFC 261 pay-per-view in April 2021, not many would have expected us to be in a position to discuss a return to fighting for Weidman.

    At the event, which represented the return of fans after a lengthy spell behind closed doors due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Weidman ran it back with former rival Uriah Hall. While he emerged victorious in their 2010 Ring of Combat clash, the rematch was to end significantly less positively for the two-time Division l All-American.

    After 17 seconds, Weidman threw the first and last strike of the main card contest. When he stood back and crumpled to the mat, it was clear all was not well. Weidman had suffered a gruesome leg break, reminiscent of the injury Anderson Silva suffered against him eight years prior.

    A certain level of immunity to injury and blood comes with the task of being a fight fan. But you’d be hard-pressed to find someone who didn’t grimace at the sight of this one.

    Weidman: “I Haven’t Slowed Down”

    After multiple surgeries and intense rehab, Weidman is nearly back to full fitness. While he admits his leg isn’t 100% healed yet and still needs to develop enough strength to where he’ll feel confident pushing off it again, the 37-year-old is back sparring and open to discussing his comeback.

    While some will undoubtedly question the motivation behind a return given the fact he’s already experienced championship status in the UFC, Weidman feels as good as ever and hasn’t lost his hunger and desire to compete.

    During a recent appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, Weidman suggested he still has what it takes to beat the best of the best at middleweight. The New York native, who knows a thing or two about upsetting the odds, firmly believes he can “shock the world again.”

    “I honestly feel great man. I’m not coming back just to get a fight and show people that you can come back from tough things,” said Weidman. “It’s more that I really do think I’m in a very selective group of top guys in the world in this division, and I can beat any of those guys on any night.

    “I haven’t slowed down somehow. I’m in there with some really good guys in the gym and if I start seeing that I don’t have what I used to be, and I don’t see myself progressing and getting better and better every day, man, I wouldn’t be doing this,” Weidman continued. “I’m not doing this for the money, I’m not doing this for the glory, I’m doing this because I love to train and I love to do this. I love to compete against the best guys in the world, and I know I can do it; I can shock the world again.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZMy-hhLoa7/

    Prior to his devastating injury, Weidman had rebounded from a two-fight skid by earning a unanimous decision win against Omari Akhmedov. He’ll no doubt be hoping to pick up where he left off in that fight when he returns to action, which he believes could be as early as July.

    Given the recent championship crowning of 42-year-old Glover Teixeira, who dethroned 38-year-old Jan Blachowicz at UFC 267 last October, a late surge for Israel Adesanya’s gold isn’t as hard to picture as it perhaps used to be.

    Do you think Chris Weidman can return to his best following his injury?

  • O’Neill: Focus On Modafferi’s Retirement Pre-UFC 271 Was “Disrespectful”

    UFC women’s flyweight Casey O’Neill believes the pre-fight focus on opponent Roxanne Modafferi’s retirement ahead of UFC 271 was “disrespectful.”

    In the one and only women’s fight on this past weekend’s pay-per-view card, two 125lbers at opposite ends of the MMA scale collided. While O’Neill was looking to extend her unbeaten record to 9-0 and climb further towards title contention, Modafferi was hoping to close out her 46-fight career with a triumph.

    After 15 minutes of action on the prelims, it was O’Neill who had her hand raised via split decision. While “The Happy Warrior” gave it her all and made a good account of herself, there was little debate about who earned the nod, despite one dissenting judge.

    What followed was a heart-warming final Octagon interview and farewell to active competition for a woman widely regarded as a pioneer for female MMA.

    While O’Neill gave credit to Modafferi following the fight and showed respect for the veteran campaigner, she also revealed her frustration at the amount of attention directed towards Modafferi’s retirement ahead of their clash inside Houston’s Toyota Center.

    While speaking to the media at the UFC 271 post-fight press conference, “King Casey” admitted her annoyance at the fact her own goals and pre-fight preparations were being overlooked.

    Given that her opponent’s retirement wasn’t official until after their fight, the Scottish-Australian contender suggested the questions and discussion about it were “premature” during fight week.

    “I was (annoyed). I felt like nobody was giving me any respect or asking me anything about myself,” admitted O’Neill. “It was all about the retirement. To be honest, the retirement wasn’t happening until after the fight, so I felt like it was a little bit premature to just be talking about that. I wanted to talk about myself, and what I’d been doing, and my game plan, and everything. I just felt like I was being brushed over and it was a little bit disrespectful.”

    O’Neill: I Deserved More Respect From The Crowd At UFC 271

    During her post-fight interview, O’Neill was showered with boos from the Houston crowd, who showed an immense amount of love for Modafferi. The 24-year-old employed the tactic of telling them not to boo her. Who’d have thought that wouldn’t work?

    After being asked about the crowd reaction at the post-fight presser, O’Neill pinpointed the boos as another element of disrespect she felt at the PPV. While she expected a negative reaction given the scenario and her nationality, “King Casey” believes she deserved more respect from the fans.

    “Listen, Roxanne is liked by everybody, so of course, I’m gonna get booed,” said O’Neill. “I’m also not American and I’m fighting in America. To be (honest), I feel like I deserved a little more respect than that.”

    Having said she’s happy to be the “bad guy” if that’s what fans want, O’Neill’s latest remarks certainly continued that narrative…

    What do you make of Casey O’Neill’s comments? Is she right to feel disrespected at the pre-UFC 271 focus?

  • Amanda Nunes: I Was Lying To Myself Pre-UFC 269

    UFC Women’s Featherweight Champion Amanda Nunes says she was “lying” to herself by believing she could compete at UFC 269.

    After extending her win streak to 12, her two-division rule, and her seven-year unbeaten run at UFC 259 last March with a dominant submission win against Megan Anderson, Nunes returned to bantamweight to defend her 135-pound gold against Julianna Peña.

    While many saw the challenger as a gift-wrapped delivery for the Brazilian’s first outing in the weight class since 2019, Peña switched the ‘And Still’ bunting to ‘And New’ in December.

    After their initially scheduled UFC 265 clash was pushed back after the then-champ returned a positive COVID-19 test, the pair finally collided at the last pay-per-view of the year.

    Providing one of the most memorable moments of the year, and across the promotion’s entire history, “The Venezuelan Vixen” submitted Nunes in the second round to be crowned the new queen of the bantamweights.

    During a recent media scrum, Nunes, who still owns the featherweight gold, looked back on her crushing defeat inside Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.

    Having branded her camp as a “mess” due to the negative effect the UFC 265 cancelation had on her training, as well as numerous injuries she claims to have carried into the event, Nunes suggested the smart thing to do would have been to delay the matchup for the second time.

    According to the Brazilian, she was lying to herself by attempting to fight through her issues and by believing she could compete at 100% of her abilities at UFC 269.

    “I thought it wouldn’t look good if I let that fight fall through one more time. So I put what I was (dealing with) aside, but I didn’t have a very good camp, that was the honest thing,” said Nunes. “I tried putting into my head that I was ready, I was 100%, but I was lying to myself. That is exactly what I was (doing). But as a fighter, as a warrior, I wanna fight. I want to do that. I’m gonna fight whatever, even if I have an injury. But at this level, you cannot do those stupid moves. So, I paid for it.

    “I was supposed to let the fight fall through, get 100% again, and fight Julianna,” Nunes continued. “And I know Julianna is a very tough opponent. I know that (defeat) could have a chance at happening cause my timing was very off. I wasn’t even able to do sparring in my camp.”

    Nunes Reveals Doctor Advised Her Not To Fight At UFC 269

    To put into context how serious her troubles and physical issues were prior to UFC 269, Nunes revealed her doctor had advised her to pull out of the UFC’s year-ending PPV.

    The “Lioness” described her decision to ignore that advice as a “dumb” move, and one she certainly paid for at the hands of Peña.

    “Unfortunately, sometimes we do dumb things, and especially at the level I’m at, we’re not supposed to do those things,” said Nunes. “Sometimes I say, ‘Man, I really should’ve listened to my doctor.’ He told me, ‘Let me handle it with the UFC, I’ll tell them exactly what you’re going through right now, and you have to have time to rest and recover. If you don’t you’re not gonna perform as well.’ I was like, fighting with my doctor. I said, ‘You’re not gonna do that, you don’t have my permission to do that. I’m gonna fight.’

    “So, I went back to his offices (after UFC 269) and he looked at me like, ‘I told you,’” added Nunes. “So now, after watching the fight as well, I had a hard time for a little bit watching the fight because I was like, ‘Man, I don’t know what happened.’ Like, I kept lying to myself after the fight.”

    After losing the bantamweight title in 2021, Nunes will be hoping to reclaim her spot on the throne this year when she meets Peña for the second time. The pair are set to run it back following a stint coaching this year’s edition of The Ultimate Fighter.

    Are you excited for the new season of TUF and Julianna Peña vs. Amanda Nunes 2?

  • Sean O’Malley: The UFC Could Lose Its Top Stars & Still Be The Best

    Rising UFC bantamweight star Sean O’Malley believes the UFC would remain the best MMA promotion, even if its top stars departed.

    Not too long ago, serious talk surrounding fighter pay and the possibility of elite stars exploring free agency would have been largely unheard of, bar a few “rebels” in that regard. Now, the topic is one of the most widely debated and discussed in the sport by fans, pundits, and fighters.

    The man behind the latest surge for additional contractual benefits is “the baddest man on the planet,” Francis Ngannou. Leading up to the first pay-per-view of 2022, the heavyweight champion’s quarrel with the UFC was public, with his manager suggesting it goes far beyond just money.

    Ngannou’s unification showdown with Ciryl Gane at UFC 270 represented the last fight on his deal. While a defeat would have likely seen him depart the promotion, a victory would secure a strong negotiation position, both in the context of his own desires, and the greater pursuit of improved contracts for fighters on MMA’s biggest stage.

    After five rounds in Anaheim, “The Predator” accomplished the latter.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZFVJznP7iU/

    From Dana White’s Octagon and press conference absence following the main event to the revelations since, including a legal threat sent to Ngannou’s team prior to the event and the undisputed titleholder’s willingness to do “whatever it takes” to get what he wants, it’s clear the tension and uncertainty around Ngannou’s future have intensified since UFC 270.

    With the promotion facing the possible departure of its heavyweight champ later this year, renowned MMA journalist Ariel Helwani pondered whether this could set the tone and get the ball rolling for a mass exodus of UFC stars.

    Israel Adesanya, Nate Diaz, and Conor McGregor are likely to fight out their active deals this year. With that in mind, Helwani questioned what would happen if they all decided to test the waters of free agency.

    According to Sean O’Malley, not much…

    During a recent episode of his YouTube podcast, the #12-ranked 135lber suggested the UFC could lose all of its top stars and still remain the best promotion in the sport of MMA.

    “The UFC could lose all those motherf*****s and still be the best,” said O’Malley. “They’ll still have the biggest names, still do the biggest numbers, it’s crazy… I think the UFC does it the best.” (h/t Sportskeeda)

    O’Malley Defended Dana White On Fighter Pay

    O’Malley’s comments come after he defended Dana White and the UFC’s stance amid the rising controversy on the current fighter pay structure.

    While many point to the discrepancy between MMA and boxing, and the fact the lowest purses on UFC cards see fighters walk away with as little as $12,000, “Sugar” thinks the debate is as simple as ‘take home what you bring in’.

    “Dude, like I don’t even blame Dana. It’s like, some of these f*cking people have zero following. They’re not making the UFC one hundred thousand,” O’Malley said during an episode of the TimboSugarShow. “I mean, they’re not making the UFC fifty thousand. They’re not making the UFC any money really. But that’s from a business perspective, from Dana’s business perspective, I can see that.” 

    O’Malley was last in action at UFC 269 in December, where he impressively finished Raulian Paiva via first-round TKO. As well as earning a place in the rankings, the Montana native seemingly secured a handsome pay rise, as teased by Dana White in the aftermath of the event.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CY4im9ZviMk/

    While Ngannou and perhaps a number of others will be considering a move away from the UFC this year, one man who appears more than happy with his current situation is O’Malley. If a mass exodus of stars does happen, “Sugar” certainly expects to still be part of the “best” promotion in MMA.

    Do you agree with Sean O’Malley? Could the UFC lose its top stars and remain the MMA leader?

  • Poirier: Oliveira Has More Ways To Win Than Gaethje

    Former interim UFC lightweight champion Dustin Poirier has given his thoughts on the upcoming title fight between reigning 155-pound king Charles Oliveira and challenger Justin Gaethje.

    In a year full of memorable crownings, including Glover Teixeira at light heavyweight and Brandon Moreno at flyweight, it was perhaps the triumph of Oliveira that represented the greatest resurgence. From 10-8-1 in his first 19 Octagon outings, “Do Bronx” has built a 10-fight win streak, culminating in championship glory and a successful defense.

    Despite coming back from extreme adversity against Michael Chandler at UFC 262 to secure his place on the throne, Oliveira was still doubted by many, with his toughness coming into question.

    He proved his naysayers wrong at the final pay-per-view of 2021 by retaining the gold with a third-round submission victory over Poirier, who was coming off consecutive wins against former two-division champ Conor McGregor.

    Having further legitimized his reign, Oliveira’s first test of 2022 will come against a contender who’s previously been vocal about the Brazilian’s apparent “quit.”

    At UFC 274, Gaethje, who previously failed to reach the undisputed mountaintop against Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2019, will have his second chance to mount the throne. “The Highlight” secured the shot with victory in a FOTY-worthy clash against Chandler last November.

    Poirier: “It’s An Interesting Fight”

    Having defeated Gaethje in 2018 and gone 11 minutes with Oliveira just two months ago, Poirier is in a unique position to analyze and predict this year’s first lightweight title clash.

    During an interview with Robby Clark for InsideFighting, “The Diamond” discussed the may pay-per-view showdown. He suggested that while Gaethje has the power and striking prowess to finish anyone, that will be his sole way to leave the Octagon with the belt on May 7.

    In comparison, Poirier believes Oliveira has multiple ways to emerge victorious and defend his title for a second time.

    “You know, Charles has more ways to wins. Justin has to knock him out. I think Charles can knock Justin out, Charles can submit him, Charles can win a decision; he has more ways to win,” said Poirier. That’s not saying that Gaethje won’t knock him out.

    “Charles is a guy who gets hit a lot. In his last two fights, he’s touched the canvas in both fights,” added Poirier. “And Gaethje’s a guy that if he gets you hurt, he usually puts you away, and he has big power. So, if you’re able to get touched, you might not recover. It’s an interesting fight. But Charles has more ways to win.”

    In his last two outings, Oliveira has recovered from knockdowns to find a finish. Whether or not he can do that against an instinctive killer like “The Highlight” remains to be seen.

    While Oliveira will hope to prove he can withstand his opponent’s power later this year, Gaethje will be looking to prove his theory on the Brazilian champion’s grit to be true.

    Who do you think will leave UFC 274 with the lightweight title, Charles Oliveira or Justin Gaethje?

  • Usman On Why He Considered LHW Jump: “It’s Jan”

    UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman has shed some more light on why he considered challenging for former light heavyweight king Jan Blachowicz’s title.

    Since ascending to the 170-pound mountaintop in 2019, an achievement that came through a dominant five-round performance against Tyron Woodley, Usman has firmly established himself as one of the most dominant champions in the UFC, in a one-on-one race for welterweight GOAT status, and arguably in the conversation for the greatest of all time, period.

    Having beaten off two challenges each from Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal and finishing Gilbert Burns, “The Nigerian Nightmare” sits comfortably on the welterweight throne, but also with the pound-for-pound crown in his possession.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZb1zYVLjab/

    Looking to prove and demonstrate his P4P dominance, Usman recently revealed he’d considered jumping two divisions to light heavyweight to challenge Polish powerhouse Blachowicz, who, at the time, reigned over the 205-pound landscape.

    Since that revelation, a number of contenders have given their thoughts on how Usman would fare in their home turf. While the upcoming title challenger Jiří Procházka suggested “The Nigerian Nightmare” would lack his usual speed and power, the rising Jamahal Hill told MMA News that Usman would be “tiny” for a light heavyweight.

    Usman’s Two-Division Aspirations Derived From One Matchup

    Now, as the discussion surrounding a potential pursuit of glory at a second weight continues, Usman has clarified his comments.

    During an interview with CBS Sports, the welterweight titleholder explained that his desire to jump up to 205 pounds derived from his feelings towards a fight against Blachowicz, an opponent he believes he’d match up well with.

    “I was very serious. I got some flak for it, and people were thinking, ‘Oh, no, he’s just saying this.’ No, I was very serious,” said Usman. “Because Israel Adesanya is the middleweight champion and Jan Blachowicz was the light heavyweight champion, I saw that matchup and I said, ‘Hey, that’s a fight that I can deal with. It’s Jan. 

    “No disrespect to Jan. I think he’s a great competitor, he’s a very powerful guy, he’s got a lot of power in his hands, but I thought that was a matchup that favored me,” Usman added. “I thought if I had skipped the middleweight class, went up to light heavyweight, I definitely would be a champ-champ. But unfortunately, he’s no longer the champ, so I will stay put where I am, and we’ll have that conversation if it happens.”

    With compatriot and friend Israel Adesanya on the middleweight throne, any push for champ-champ status would have to see Usman skip the 185-pound class.

    However, with Blachowicz losing the gold to veteran Brazilian Glover Teixeira at UFC 267 last October, it remains to be seen whether or not Usman fancies his chances against light heavyweights beyond the recently-dethroned Blachowicz.

    How do you think Kamaru Usman would have fared against then-champion Jan Blachowicz in 2021?

  • Swanson Was Not A Fan Of Hernandez’s Prelim Complaints

    UFC featherweight Cub Swanson sent some advice to Alexander Hernandez after the lightweight complained about his original placement on this Saturday’s UFC 271 card.

    Entering 2019, Hernandez was a highly-touted and fast-rising prospect following victories over current top-five contender Beneil Dariush and Olivier Aubin-Mercier in his first two Octagon outings.

    But since then, “The Great” has exchanged wins and losses, going 3-3 in his last six. After rebounding from his latest setback against Thiago Moisés with a first-round knockout against Mike Breeden last October, Hernandez will be looking to begin his first win streak since 2018 when he returns to action this weekend.

    In his way of doing so will be another of the promotion’s once-thought-to-be future stars who’s been unable to reach his potential, Renato Moicano.

    While the Brazilian does boast UFC triumphs over Calvin Kattar, Jeremy Stephens, and Zubaira Tukhugov, defeats at the hands of Brian Ortega, José Aldo, “The Korean Zombie,” and Rafael Fiziev have prevented the 32-year-old from breaking into contention.

    Having returned to form last time out with a second-round submission against Jai Herbert, Moicano will look to continue his momentum at UFC 271.

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    Despite this matchup pitting two recognizable names against each other, it initially found itself on this weekend’s early prelims, before being bumped to the main card following post-weigh-in alterations.

    While some would be eager to impress on the grand stage of a pay-per-view card wherever their placement on it, Hernandez was less than pleased before the change.

    “Man, I’m fired the f*ck up because of the amount of disrespect that the UFC is showing me on this card,” Hernandez told MMA Fighting on the We Got Next podcast. “We have to wait four months and then I’m on the early f*cking prelims. I mean, that incites such a rage in me so I’m coming to make a statement. I’m so fired up about that. I’m so pissed off and I’m so motivated, so I’m really eager to make a statement.”

    Hernandez went on to suggest that those who were above him in the previous bout order are “statistically” below him in the promotion. That, coupled with the fact his home in San Antonio is less than 200 miles from the location of UFC 271, left the 29-year-old incredibly “frustrated” at his position.

    “I’m in my state, I’m practically in my city, the only other guy [from] there [fighting outside of the early prelims] is Derrick Lewis—and rightfully so, he’s the co-main,” Hernandez added. “But how the f*ck did I get on the early, early prelims? It’s not even the prelims. Not on the main card, not on the [ESPN] prelims, it’s my peers that are barely above me, or people that are statistically below that are above me [on the card]. I’m frustrated, plus we’re in Texas.

    “I’m gonna go out there, please the 15 people in the audience, get my 20-30 homies hyped. I’m gonna take out Moicano and make a statement and let them know not to discredit, or disrespect me like that again. I’m so fired up about it.”

    Swanson Sends Hernandez Some Advice

    After receiving some heavy criticism for his comments from fans, it didn’t take long for one of Hernandez’s UFC peers to give his take.

    In a tweet, featherweight veteran Cub Swanson cited the example of his rise from the early prelims to a main event spot in the space of two fights as the reason Hernandez shouldn’t have looked down on his place on the UFC 271 card.

    “I once got bumped from Co-main to FightPass prelims. Instead of complaining, I made it a point to hype up FightPass. I ended up getting a handwritten letter from the UFC thanking me and I headlined a card two fights later.”

    Wherever his placement on the card, whether on the early prelims as initially planned or on the main card as is now set, one thing has always been clear ahead of Hernandez’s first appearance of 2022: a win is crucial.

    With that sentiment being similar across the cage in Moicano’s corner, this clash should provide an intriguing affair inside Houston’s Toyota Center.

    What’s your take on Alexander Hernandez’s comments? Should he have followed the mindset of Cub Swanson?

  • Tuivasa Turns The Tables On Lewis’ ‘Cup Shoey’ Proposal

    UFC heavyweight Tai Tuivasa has turned the heat up on the UFC 271 ‘shoey’ stakes by offering to drink a beer from Derrick Lewis’ cup.

    Has there ever been a matchup in the UFC where the possible post-fight celebration was talked about as much as it has been ahead of Tuivasa vs. Lewis?

    In the UFC 271 co-main event this weekend, we’ll see the UFC’s most prolific knockout artist face one of the hardest-hitting heavyweights, who’s on a knockout trail that’s left unconscious bodies in his wake.

    But what is the leading narrative ahead of this Octagon-shaking collision? Drinking beer from a shoe. Actually, scratch that, from a cup…

    In 2021, Tuivasa accomplished many things. He brought ’90’s pop back on the agenda with his memorable walkout anthems, he developed into a bona fide contender by extending his win streak to four with brutal KOs of Greg Hardy and Augusto Sakai, he cemented himself as perhaps the most universally loved athlete on the UFC roster, and he brought the ‘shoey’ into the mainstream.

    What has last year’s success brought him in 2022? Well, aside from his own business venture in the form of the ‘shoeyvasa’, a date with “The Black Beast.”

    Ahead of the highly-anticipated heavyweight bout, which represents a big opportunity for the 28-year-old to throw his name into the title conversation, Lewis hinted he could match Tuivasa’s trademark celebration with his own interesting take on the beer-drinking practice.

    Carrying on from his UFC Vegas 45 cup throw, the two-time title challenger suggested he could treat himself to a beer from inside his own groin guard if he’s successful in front of his home crowd on Saturday night.

    Having heard that proposal, Tuivasa went one better at UFC 271 media day on Wednesday. Wanting some of that “latte” action, as Lewis described it, “Bam Bam” said he was keen to chug a beverage from Lewis’ cup.

    “He can throw it to me when I win and I’ll do a cuppy out of his ball guard then [LAUGHS]. I’m keen.”

    Judging by Lewis’ response, the Australian appears to have found his American UFC peer’s line…

    Lewis On Tuivasa’s ‘Cuppy’ Request: “That Guy’s Nasty”

    During his own media day appearance, Lewis was told about Tuivasa’s willingness for a warm-ball “Black Beast” special (don’t expect to see that in your local anytime soon…).

    It’s fair to say the 37-year-old will be keeping his guard firmly inside his shorts if the Aussie gets the win on Saturday night.

    “Oh, that guy’s nasty man, I can’t do that,” said Lewis. “I don’t know. USADA needa be knocking on his door all the time, he’s gotta be taking something for his immune system. That is just nasty.”

    Whatever happens, it seems fans can be sure of a few things come fight night; a KO/TKO, a can of beer entering the Octagon in the aftermath, and either a ‘shoey’ or a ‘cuppy’. Outside of that, we could see a new contender enter the heavyweight fray or an eight-year UFC veteran maintain his place among the heavyweight elite.

    The term “people’s main event” gets thrown around more and more these days, but not many matchups embody the phrase quite like the UFC 271 co-main.

    Who do you think will be left celebrating with a ‘shoey’ or ‘cuppy’ in the UFC 271 co-main event, Tai Tuivasa or Derrick Lewis?

  • Whittaker: I Don’t Like Adesanya’s Character & How He Conducts Himself

    Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker says he doesn’t like rival Israel Adesanya’s “character” and the “way he conducts himself.”

    As far as active rivalries go in the 185-pound weight class, not many have as much history and intrigue as the one shared by reigning middleweight king Adesanya and top contender Whittaker.

    The pair first met at UFC 243 back in October 2019. At the time, “The Last Stylebender” was a fast-rising and undefeated star who held the interim gold. On the other side, “The Reaper” was riding a nine-fight, five-year unbeaten streak, and had been champion since 2017.

    Inside Melbourne’s Marvel Stadium, it was Adesanya who walked away with undisputed status after emerging victorious in a grudge match that came after weeks of back and forth and personal remarks.

    After finding success on their own journeys since, Adesanya and Whittaker’s paths are set to cross again this weekend at UFC 271. While the titleholder will be looking to record his fourth successful defense and firmly establish his superiority over Whittaker, the New Zealand-born Australian is out for redemption.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZuVMrshaEw/

    Whittaker: “We’ll Always Be Rivals”

    Ahead of their rematch, the build-up is certainly less hostile and more respectful. Having suggested the media narratives at play in 2019, especially the accentuated New Zealand vs. Australia rivalry, played a part in the build and his defeat, Whittaker appears to be enjoying a more relaxed and calm approach for Saturday’s Houston-held pay-per-view.

    But despite that, the pair are certainly not friends. During a recent interview with RT Sport, Whittaker suggested a number of factors means he and Adesanya will always be rivals.

    “I think we’ll always be rivals. It’s just, I think it’s a personality thing,” said Whittaker. “The fact that we’re both middleweights, strikers, from that part of the world; I think we’ll always be rivals.”

    When asked if he can foresee a route to friendship with “The Last Stylebender” in the future, Whittaker admitted it’s unlikely, largely because he’s not a fan of Adesanya’s outgoing personality and the way the champ carries himself.

    “I don’t like the way he conducts himself. I don’t like his character. It doesn’t suit.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZx3vvOI6gm/

    While tensions and hostility are levels below where they were prior to UFC 243, UFC 271 still promises to be a fiery affair and certainly has a lot at stake.

    The result has been heavily discussed, debated, and predicted. However, the fact Whittaker and Adesanya will always share some form of animosity doesn’t seem to be arguable.

    Do you agree with Robert Whittaker? What are your thoughts on Israel Adesanya’s character and personality?

  • O’Malley Shares Why He Doesn’t Want To Be On A McGregor Card Again

    UFC bantamweight contender Sean O’Malley has revealed why he’s not keen on sharing cards with MMA’s biggest superstar Conor McGregor.

    In 2021, O’Malley rebounded from his first defeat in professional MMA with three wins, three finishes, and three bonuses in as many appearances, all of which helped “Sugar” rise into the 135-pound rankings. As far as years go, the last 12 months haven’t been too shabby for the Montana native.

    While he recorded brutal knockouts against Thomas Almeida and Raulian Paiva, perhaps O’Malley’s most complete performance of 2021 came against promotional newcomer Kris Moutinho at UFC 264, a pay-per-view headlined by McGregor and Dustin Poirier’s trilogy clash.

    On his way to a third-round TKO stoppage, which came with less than 30 seconds until the final horn, O’Malley broke records with his slick striking and opened the event’s main card in Fight of the Night style.

    O’Malley: I’m Bigger Than Everyone But McGregor

    While the majority of fighters on the UFC roster would love to be on a card headlined by McGregor given the incredible number of eyes and exposure drawn to it, O’Malley sees things differently.

    “Sugar” has never shied away from expressing his thoughts on his own star power, something he recently put on display during an interview with Helen Yee.

    Believing he no longer needs the help of McGregor to bring fans’ attention to his performances, O’Malley suggested he’d much rather be the main attraction, rather than the Irishman’s understudy.

    Given his belief that no one other than the former two-divison UFC champion sits above him when it comes to stardom and drawing power, O’Malley expects to be the lead interest if he avoids sharing cards with McGregor.

    “I’d rather fight with less attention on the card. I’d rather fight on a non-Conor card,” said O’Malley. “Because no matter what, even if I go out there and perform beautifully and (Conor) breaks his foot or whatever, it’s all the ESPN, Sportscenter, everything’s just gonna pick up Conor. So for me, I’d prefer to be on a smaller card—basically not Conor. I feel like everyone else I’m bigger than.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CX14GhFvzUG/

    Having accelerated his rise up the bantamweight ladder in 2021, O’Malley will hope to join the elite at 135 pounds when he returns to the cage this year.

    Given the thumb injury he suffered versus Paiva in December and his desire to fight in Las Vegas, it appears fans could be waiting until the summer to see “Sugar” throw down next.

    Do you agree with Sean O’Malley? Is he the second-biggest name in the UFC?

  • Poirier: Besides Money, Why Would I Fight McGregor Again?

    Dustin Poirier has questioned why, aside from the lucrative paycheck, he would consider fighting Conor McGregor again.

    While 2021 may have ended in another failed bid for undisputed champion status, the rest of Poirier’s year represented redemption, success, business, and the last laugh. He achieved all of those through back-to-back fights against the sport’s biggest superstar, McGregor.

    Having been finished by the Irishman way back in 2014, the first task for “The Diamond” was leveling the score. In the UFC 257 main event, he did exactly that by becoming the first man to knock McGregor out.

    After turning down a shot at vacant gold in favor of another money fight with the former two-division champion, Poirier met McGregor again in the main event of UFC 264 last July. Towards the end of what was a dominant opening round for the Louisianan, McGregor suffered a gruesome broken leg, handing Poirier another triumph.

    As far as six-month success goes, not much can top two pay-per-view main events, both of which sold in excess of 1.5 million buys and a pair of victories over the biggest name in the sport.

    Poirier: “I Beat The Guy Two Times In A Row”

    After the conclusion to their trilogy clash, a fourth fight seemed inevitable. Following the anticlimactic ending last July, Poirier and McGregor both shared a sentiment along the lines of “this isn’t over yet,” and UFC President Dana White suggested as much, too.

    However, with Poirier’s second championship defeat and subsequent uncertain future, it seems there are a number of more preferable options for both men in 2022. For “The Diamond,” a welterweight bout with fellow veteran fan favorite Nate Diaz appears to be leading the charge.

    During an interview with Robby Clark for InsideFighting, Poirier suggested the only factor that could draw him into a tetralogy with McGregor is the money. Beyond that, another date with the “Notorious” Irishman doesn’t intrigue him.

    “I think, besides money, what would I be doing it for? I beat the guy two times in a row last year, you know; knocked him out, 10-8ed him in the first round of our last fight. It’s just like, we’ll see,” said Poirier. “We’re not currently talking about it with the UFC, but I’m sure it’s never out of the question. He wants to fight me. No doubt about it, he wants to get those wins back. We’ll see what happens when they call, but they haven’t said a word about it yet. I’m not sure if they have a plan for him.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZFTR43KIJH/

    While Poirier potentially closes the lid on his time at lightweight and pursues “fun” fights, McGregor looks set to return this year with redemption on his mind.

    With two of his potential comeback opponents, Diaz and Poirier, looking likely to face each other, another leading contender in Michael Chandler reportedly set to share the cage with Tony Ferguson, and Justin Gaethje booked for the next shot at Charles Oliveira’s gold, it remains to be seen who McGregor will be standing opposite from when he returns.

    Would you like to see Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor share the Octagon for a fourth time?

  • Iaquinta Admits Regret Over Accepting Green As UFC 268 Opponent

    Former UFC lightweight title challenger Al Iaquinta has admitted he holds some regret over his decision to face Bobby Green for his return fight at UFC 268.

    After two years away from action, Al Iaquinta made a comeback to the Octagon last November. Prior to his hiatus, the New York native fell to consecutive unanimous decision losses against Donald Cerrone and Dan Hooker.

    Inside the prestigious Madison Square Garden, “Raging” Al hoped to return to the win column in front of a hometown crowd. In his way of doing so was Green, a fellow veteran whose level of activity represented the opposite of Iaquinta’s across 2020 and 2021.

    Having narrowly fallen to defeat against rising star Rafael Fiziev in his previous outing, “King” was also hoping for a rebound performance. With his first finish since a 2013 body kick against James Krause, Green did exactly that.

    Inside the opening round, the 35-year-old dropped Iaquinta, before swarming him for the early stoppage and spoiling the homecoming.

    https://twitter.com/MMAFighting/status/1457154646083051527

    Iaquinta: “I Should Have Picked A Different Opponent”

    While Green hopes to ride the momentum from that result into his first appearance of 2022 this weekend, a main-card clash with Nasrat Haqparast at UFC 271, Iaquinta may be hanging up his gloves

    Shortly after the devastating loss, Iaquinta suggested that his appearance at UFC 268 was likely his last fight, which would call an end to a memorable 22-fight career. Iaquinta has since walked back these suggestions, taking a “we’ll see” approach to what may lie ahead.

    Three months beyond his failed comeback, the former lightweight contender, who recorded wins against the likes of Jorge Masvidal, Diego Sanchez, and Kevin Lee during his UFC tenure, has looked back on his decision to return against an opponent as tough as Green.

    During an appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, Iaquinta admitted that he regrets choosing “King” as his 14th foe on MMA’s biggest stage.

    “Bobby Green is a tough guy. I should have picked a different opponent than that after a two-year layoff, coming off of two losses. I’m like, I wanted the best opponent, I was like, ‘I want Bobby Green, that guy is looking good right now,’” said Iaquinta. “Looking back, I should have known. I did know he was good, but maybe we’ll take it back a notch on the competition and ease it into it a little bit. I don’t know if there are tune-up fights in the lightweight division, but I don’t know about Bobby Green.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CV6aB6pJ8w0/

    If this is the end for Iaquinta, while he may have regrets about his most recent opponent, Iaquinta can certainly be proud of everything he has accomplished in the UFC up to this point. Despite never having gold wrapped around his waist, “Raging” Al went five rounds with the great Khabib Nurmagomedov for the vacant belt and faced the best of the best in the promotion across his decade on its roster.

    Do you think Al Iaquinta should have returned to the Octagon against a lesser opponent in 2021?

  • Whittaker Reveals The Changes He’s Made Ahead Of Adesanya Rematch

    UFC middleweight contender Robert Whittaker has detailed the host of changes he’s made ahead of his second fight against reigning 185-pound king Israel Adesanya.

    At UFC 243 in 2019, then-interim champion Adesanya secured undisputed status by ending the nine-fight, five-year unbeaten streak of then-titleholder Whittaker. Inside Melbourne, Australia’s Marvel Stadium, “The Reaper” was finished in front of a home crowd in the main event’s second round.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZfQZv_s0Bf/

    What followed was a period of uncertainty for the New Zealand-born Australian, who took time away from the sport to figure out what his future held. In the end, he returned to training revitalized and with a rejuvenated love for martial arts.

    In his three fights since returning to action, Whittaker has been at his best, outpointing Darren Till and Kelvin Gastelum in UFC Fight Night main events, and securing a comfortable unanimous verdict on the scorecards against Jared Cannonier in the UFC 254 co-main event.

    Those performances have led him back to the man who made him question his place in the sport. At UFC 271 this weekend, Whittaker will look to re-establish his middleweight dominance by taking the gold back from Adesanya.

    Whittaker: “I’ve Changed So Many Things Since That Fight”

    In the period since his championship defeat, it’s understandable Whittaker has made an abundance of changes to his team, training, and personal life.

    While some have suggested it’s unlikely he’ll be able to make the necessary adjustments needed to hand Adesanya his first loss at middleweight, Whittaker and his team are confident of the opposite.

    During an interview with LowKick MMA, Whittaker detailed the fresh looks and alterations he’s made to his preparation in the years since his first Octagon meeting with “The Last Stylebender,” changes which he believes have aided him both inside and outside the cage.

    “All the ideas are fresh. There’s been so many changes. How long ago was that now? That’s a long time between fights. I’ve changed so many things since that fight,” said Whittaker. “I’ve changed coaching staff, I’ve changed locations, I’ve changed the way I train, why I train. I’ve changed myself as a person outside the Octagon, which directly impacts how I am inside, walking into it, how I deal with my training, how I develop my training, how I’m going through it all, how I’m going through the process. So, there’s been a lot of changes.”

    Ultimately, whether he’s victorious on February 12 or not, Whittaker knows he’s made the necessary changes to feel satisfied with the UFC 271 result either way.

    “I guess that’s the overriding feeling moving into this next fight,” Whittaker continued.

    “It’s just that I am confident and I am satisfied with who I am and why I do it, and what I’m doing to get to this fight that when I get in there, I’m gonna give it my absolute 100%. And I will be satisfied with the result if I can do that. I didn’t get that satisfaction after the first fight.”

    We’ll soon find out if Whittaker’s changes are enough to help him do what the likes of Paulo Costa, Yoel Romero, Anderson Silva, and Marvin Vettori couldn’t: beat Israel Adesanya.

    Do you think Robert Whittaker can exact revenge on Israel Adesanya this Saturday?

  • Derek Brunson: Sean Strickland Is A Cringe “Weirdo”

    UFC middleweight Derek Brunson has given his firm take on the antics and remarks of his fellow contender Sean Strickland.

    While talk about Strickland has been on the rise in general, it’s picked up in recent weeks owing to his first Octagon outing of 2022. After returning to action and to 185 pounds in 2020, the 30-year-old recorded wins against Jack Marshman, Brendan Allen, Krzysztof Jotko, and Uriah Hall.

    In his second consecutive main event last weekend, “Tarzan” faced his toughest middleweight test to date in the form of Jack Hermansson. While he perhaps didn’t entertain and thrill as much as many had expected on fight night, Strickland successfully extended his undefeated record in the weight class and moved closer to a potential title shot.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZnu543Nifj/

    While his ability inside the Octagon is hard to question, Strickland’s antics and remarks outside of it haven’t followed suit. From controversial comments on homosexuality to his statements on an apparent desire to “kill” inside and outside the cage, “Tarzan” has certainly split opinions with his outspoken personality.

    One man who firmly falls on the side of those criticizing the #7-ranked middleweight contender rather than being entertained by him is Brunson.

    Brunson Hopes “Tasteless” Strickland Changes His Ways

    During his appearance at UFC 271 media day ahead of his crucial clash with Jared Cannonier this weekend, the 38-year-old gave his thoughts on the man two positions below him on the 185-pound ladder.

    “Sean Strickland is a weirdo. I mean, slightly funny. I guess funny in this era,” said Brunson. “But, that’s definitely kind of cringe. Super weird. I heard some of the stuff he said. I don’t know if he’s trying to get a lot of attention or whatever, but I don’t think it’s cool to just be a jerk or an asshole, saying like, ‘Oh, I’ll kill people and I wouldn’t care.’

    “It’s like, if you say, ‘Hey, if somebody harms my family, I’d kill somebody and I wouldn’t care,’ that’s a bit different than saying, ‘I’d just kill a random person and wouldn’t care.’ That’s some tasteless stuff and I don’t really think there’s a place for it,” Brunson continued. “It’s kind of annoying. I hope he changes his ways, for sure.”

    Speaking of killing and dying, here’s Strickland’s latest interesting post…

    “WHEN PEOPLE ASK ME “WHY ARE YOU THIS WAY” There is no god, we’re all animals, life is random, there is no meaning, morality doesn’t exist.. go fuck hookers and do cocaine. If we die now or later it makes no difference……”

    Given the fact this tweet came hours after Brunson’s appearance at UFC 271 media day and his previous comments on how he’ll be if he becomes champion, it seems unlikely Strickland will be following his UFC peer’s advice and changing his ways.

    Do you agree with Derek Brunson? Does Sean Strickland need to tone down his statements?

  • Israel Adesanya on Robert Whittaker: “I Humbled Him”

    UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya doesn’t expect Robert Whittaker to talk trash ahead of UFC 271 having “humbled” him in their UFC 243 contest.

    Adesanya completed his undefeated climb to the top of the 185-pound mountain in October 2019. After beating Marvin Vettori, Derek Brunson, and Anderson Silva, and having collected interim gold in a FOTY-worthy clash with Kelvin Gastelum, “The Last Stylebender” had his chance for undisputed glory.

    In Whittaker’s own backyard, Adesanya secured his crowning moment. After nearly finishing “The Reaper” in the opening round, the Nigerian-New Zealander completed the feat in the second frame. As well as earning his spot on the middleweight throne, Adesanya also ended the nine-fight, five-year unbeaten run of Whittaker.

    Adesanya: “He Can’t Say The Sh*t He Was Saying The First Time”

    Now, with their rematch set for UFC 271 this weekend, the main question on everyone’s lips is what will we see different this time around? That includes in terms of pre-fight build, performance, and result.

    One thing Adesanya expects to play out differently is the fight week and interview back and forth. While narratives surrounding a personal feud and an Australia vs. New Zealand rivalry were accentuated ahead of their Melbourne clash, a factor Whittaker believes played a part in his loss, the champion expects the now-“humbled” former titleholder to approach the rematch quietly.

    “I humbled him to the sense that he can’t say the sh*t he was saying the first time around because he was talking all that sh*t saying this and that. ‘I think Adesanya isn’t as good as he thinks he is.’ I remember that,” Adesanya said in a video uploaded to his YouTube channel. “I’m the elephant in the f*cking room. I never forget. ‘Oh, Israel’s not as good as he thinks he is.’ I’ll show you how great I think I am.”

    According to Adesanya, Whittaker’s ego was his downfall in 2019 and will likely contribute to another defeat this Saturday in Houston. While Whittaker says he’s feeling rejuvenated and with a newfound love for the sport of MMA, “The Last Stylebender” isn’t buying it yet.

    “I saw a little snippet of what he was saying. It’s like he finds it hard to swallow,” Adesanya added. “It’s a hard pill for him to swallow. He’s admitting it, he’s saying the right things, but he’s not believing it. His ego won’t let him and that’s his downfall. His ego. People tried to say that about me leading to the first fight. ‘Oh, he’s too egotistical. He’s not humble like Whittaker.’ I’m like, bro, stop. I am extraordinarily humble. I know my limits as a human being and my capabilities. So I know I’m the sh*t but at the same time, I know I ain’t sh*t. He needs to check himself. He’s got this newfound mental clarity and it would help him positively if it was true. I just don’t buy into it.” (h/t MMA Fighting)

    While Adesanya looks to prove his superiority over Whittaker again, the New Zealand-born Aussie will be targeting redemption and a second reign on the middleweight throne. We’ll find out which party leaves the Toyota Center happy on Saturday night.

    Do you expect Israel Adesanya to beat Robert Whittaker for the second time this weekend at UFC 271?

  • Casey O’Neill Wants To Fight Entire FW Top 15 Before Title Shot

    UFC women’s flyweight prospect Casey O’Neill isn’t looking to rush her rise to the top of the 125-pound food chain.

    In eight professional MMA fights, O’Neill has worked her way to the UFC and firmly established herself as a name to keep an eye on. In her three appearances in the Octagon to date, “King Casey” has TKO’d Shana Dobson and Antonina Shevchenko, and choked Lara Procópio unconscious.

    O’Neill’s fourth task in the UFC will be to dispose of Roxanne Modafferi. “The Happy Warrior” will be making her 45th and final appearance in the cage at UFC 271 this Saturday. While she’ll be hoping to end her career on a high, O’Neill will be looking to spoil the retirement party inside Houston’s Toyota Center.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZkb5c6PB_8/

    O’Neill Targets Slow & Steady Build

    It’s fair to say a prospect’s development to a legitimate contender is often a ‘sink or swim’ affair.

    Edmen Shahbazyan, for example, was about as hot a future star as the promotion had at the start of 2020, having recorded three consecutive first-round finishes at the age of just 22. Fast forward two years and he’s now on a three-fight skid having failed to adjust to the step-up in competition Derek Brunson, Jack Hermansson, and Nassourdine Imavov represented.

    With that in mind, O’Neill is looking to follow a different route to the top, one that is becoming considerably more popular among rising stars.

    During a recent appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, “King Casey” discussed her future plans, suggesting that, in an ideal scenario, she’d fight every ranked flyweight on her way towards the title.

    “I’m still happy to slow build. But obviously, I can’t say no when Mick (Maynard) calls the phone. And every time he’s called, I’ve answered and been like, ‘OK, we can do that.’ But I just want to fight as many times as possible, get as much experience,” said O’Neill. “So however that ends up playing out, I guess is the way that it’s gonna be. But in my perfect world, I would fight everybody in the top 15 before I got there.”

    With that said, Valentina Shevchenko can seemingly focus her efforts elsewhere for the next few years.

    “I still think I’m a couple years away from being ready for that, just because of my experience,” O’Neill acknowledged.

    With a win on the pay-per-view stage this weekend, and perhaps another finish, O’Neill will make yet another statement to the 125-pound roster. Sending Modafferi into retirement off the back of a one-sided loss would also likely see the Scottish-Australian fighter matched up with a top-10 opponent next time out.

    Do you think Casey O’Neill is a future UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion?

  • Robert Whittaker: Derek Brunson Was Always This Good

    Former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker believes fellow contender Derek Brunson has always been as good as his recent results suggest.

    This time three years ago, not many would have expected or predicted Brunson to be in position for a title eliminator in 2022. But that is exactly the spot the veteran has placed himself in. He’s set to face Jared Cannonier at UFC 271 next month, with the winner expected to challenge for gold later in the year.

    To get to this spot, Brunson has built a five-fight win streak that has firmly broken him beyond the status of gatekeeper and into the elite at 185 pounds. After going 0-2 in 2018, Brunson rebounded with unanimous decision victories over Elias Theodorou and Ian Heinisch.

    Then, “Blonde Brunson” arrived.

    Blonde Brunson

    In a main event against the then-unbeaten Edmen Shahbazyan, Brunson showed his quality. He dominated and beat up the youngster on his way to a third-round TKO.

    In 2021, the North Carolina native turned things up a notch, first by dominating rising contender and 5-0 2020 fighter Kevin Holland, and then by submitting former welterweight title challenger Darren Till in his third consecutive headliner.

    Whittaker: Brunson Seems More Experienced Now

    Now sitting at #4 in the middleweight rankings, Brunson has firmly exceeded expectations and made a late surge towards the title. But while most are surprised by his resurgence, one of his former opponents isn’t.

    During an interview with LowKick MMA, Whittaker, who defeated Brunson via first-round TKO in 2016, suggested not much has changed in Brunson’s approach for him to find his recent success. “The Reaper” said that the middleweight mainstay has always been this good, but has simply faced tough opposition.

    “He kind of fights the same way (as before) doesn’t he? [LAUGHS] He gets in your face, then he grinds you up against the fence, and then takes you down and makes your life a living hell,” said Whittaker. “I think he was always that good, it’s just he fought some good opponents and had some bad nights. He definitely seems more experienced and (is) making smarter decisions.”

    Brunson’s strength of schedule is certainly up there with the best at 185 pounds. His five UFC defeats came against powerhouse and former title challenger Yoel Romero, legendary former champion and GOAT contender Anderson Silva, Brazilian grappling great Ronaldo Souza, current middleweight king Israel Adesanya, and former titleholder and now-top contender Whittaker.

    Brunson will hope to avoid adding Cannonier’s name to that list when they collide in February. Discussing that matchup, Whittaker said the key for Brunson will be taking “The Killa Gorilla” to the ground and keeping him there.

    “Brunson’s a good fighter. You can see, the only guys he’s really lost to have been previous champs, really,” added Whittaker. “I think Cannonier’s a tough guy to beat though. I think to get this win, (Brunson) takes him down and holds him down and makes him uncomfortable and just grinds him out there for three rounds. But Cannonier is very hard to hold down. And he hits like a truck. His standup striking is very technical, very textbook. It’s an interesting fight.”

    As well as Brunson’s likely title eliminator against Cannonier, UFC 271 will also see another crucial middleweight contest go down. In the main event, Whittaker will look to exact revenge on Adesanya in their rematch and regain his spot on the 185-pound throne.

    How do you think Robert Whittaker and Derek Brunson will fare in their respective matchups at UFC 271?

  • Casey O’Neill On Modafferi: “You Can’t Teach An Old Dog New Tricks”

    UFC women’s flyweight Casey O’Neill doesn’t expect upcoming opponent Roxanne Modafferi to follow through on her promise to try new things at UFC 271.

    In the pay-per-view’s one and only women’s fight, veteran campaigner Modafferi will enter the Octagon for one last hurrah. “The Happy Warrior” has fought 44 times since entering the sport as a professional in 2003, including bouts under the promotional banners of Strikeforce and Invicta FC.

    Having fought nine times in the UFC since falling short of capturing gold against Nicco Montaño in 2017, a period that includes wins against Maycee Barber and Andrea Lee, Modafferi’s 10th walk to the Octagon will represent her last.

    In her way of a happy entry to retirement will be O’Neill, an undefeated rising prospect who is riding three finishes against Shana Dobson, Lara Procópio, and Antonina Shevchenko into her fourth UFC outing.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CV21CrtpET5/?utm_source=ig_embed

    O’Neill Promises To Meet Crazy With Crazy

    After the announcement of her final fight, Modafferi detailed her decision to hang up her gloves and analyzed her final MMA foe. While she acknowledged O’Neill’s strengths, she warned the Scottish-Australian 24-year-old to be prepared for anything and everything come February 12.

    But while “The Happy Warrior” hopes to end her year by trying out all the moves she’s kept in her back pocket, including spinning and flying manoeuvres, “King Casey” is expecting the same Modafferi UFC fans have seen in the Octagon nine times.

    Nevertheless, if she is met with anything unexpected, she promises to fight fire with fire.

    “OK, well, in my opinion, you can’t teach an old dog new tricks,” O’Neill said during an appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani. “So I think she’s gonna come out and have the exact same fight that she always has, that she’s had for 50 fights now. So I’m not gonna fall into that. And if she wants to try to do all that crazy stuff, she better be ready for some crazy stuff coming back at her.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZcswYyPvle/

    While a victory for Modafferi this weekend would provide a memorable upset and add the cherry on top of what has been a lengthy and fruitful MMA career, O’Neill will be looking to send the veteran out of the sport in emphatic fashion.

    If “King Casey” can extend her promotional record to 4-0 and perhaps maintain her 100% finishing rate in the UFC, she’ll certainly have a big opponent awaiting her next time out.

    Who do you think will have their hand raised at UFC 271, Casey O’Neill or Roxanne Modafferi?

  • Tuivasa On Felipe: “How Did He Get Done For Steroids, He’s Fat As S**t”

    UFC heavyweight contender Tai Tuivasa has given his thoughts on Carlos Felipe’s recent failed drug test and subsequent suspension.

    Felipe has been competing in the UFC’s heaviest weight class since 2020. Although it’s worth noting the Brazilian was initially signed in 2017 but was suspended by USADA prior to his debut after testing positive for stanzolol metabolites.

    After arriving as an undefeated prospect, eventually, the 27-year-old fell to a majority decision against Sergey Spivak on debut. But in his following three appearances, including a memorable scrap against Justin Tafa on Fight Island, the Brazilian got back on track with three consecutive triumphs on the judges’ scorecards.

    It’s fair to say that run of success has come to a crashing halt.

    After suffering his second defeat in the promotion against veteran Andrei Arlovski last October, Felipe has found himself locked to the sidelines and unable to rebound for at least the next 18 months, owing to a failed drug test.

    “Boi” tested positive for the anabolic agent boldenone and its metabolites in relation to his co-main event clash with Arlovski at UFC Vegas 40. With that revelation, which Felipe’s team branded as a “huge surprise,” the Feira de Santana native will be unable to compete until April 16, 2023.

    Tuivasa: Felipe Should Get A Refund

    While most have expressed their disappointment and disdain at the failed drug test, Tuivasa sent Felipe a message during a recent appearance on The MMA Hour: get a refund.

    When discussing Felipe’s case, “Bam Bam” questioned how Felipe could have tested positive for steroids given his size, although he said it in a less polite way…

    “Yeah, f*ck that, how did he get done for steroids? He’s fat as sh*t. That’s like f*cking me getting done for steroids or some sh*t like that,” Tuivasa said. “How the hell did that happen?”

    Comparing his own size with that of Felipe, Tuivasa claimed if he used performance-enhancing drugs and remained in the same shape, he’d be requesting his money back.

    “F*ck, I’d be calling my dealer up and getting a refund or something [LAUGHS]. Imagine that, f*cking what.”

    This isn’t the first time Tuivasa has commented on Felipe’s troubles. In an Instagram post uploaded a number of weeks ago, the #11-ranked heavyweight contender mocked “Boi,” pointing out that he lost to “an old man” in Arlovski while using PEDs.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CY5ogmULF2F/

    While Felipe begins his long period away from the cage, Tuivasa will at least be providing the Brazilian with some entertaining action to enjoy from the comfort of his home this weekend. In the UFC 271 co-main event, the Australian will face fellow knockout artist Derrick Lewis.

    Perhaps Felipe should follow Tuivasa’s example and swap the PEDs for the shoeys…

    What did you make of Carlos Felipe’s failed drug test?

  • Modafferi Admits Retirement Comes As “Young” Generation Takes Over

    Retiring UFC women’s flyweight Roxanne Modafferi has admitted she’s felt “muscled” around by the rising crop of young fighters in her recent Octagon outings.

    This weekend, 44-fight MMA veteran Modafferi will close out her lengthy career in the sport. Having competed at the highest levels since her 2003 debut, including title challenges in the UFC, Strikeforce, and Invicta FC, “The Happy Warrior” will hang up her gloves on the pay-per-view main stage in Houston.

    In her way of a happy entry to retirement at UFC 271 will be Casey O’Neill, an undefeated rising prospect who showed her punching mettle in finishes over Shana Dobson and Antonina Shevchenko, and her submission prowess by choking out Lara Procópio.

    While “King Casey” will hope to continue her march up the 125-pound ladder and maintain her 100% finishing rate in the UFC, Modafferi will look to cause one last upset before exiting the crazy world of active competition for good.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZu1y5POc7z/

    Interestingly, Modafferi’s task this weekend represents one of the reasons behind her decision to call an end to her career.

    While she got the better of 23-year-old Maycee Barber and 32-year-old Andrea Lee in 2020, the 39-year-old says she’s begun to feel “muscled” around by the younger generation in her recent appearances, something she’s seen as a sign her time is up.

    “I feel like these young whippersnappers are coming up and like, I’m still working hard, I’m still trying to get stronger, but I feel like all these young guys are starting to kind of muscle me around a little bit,” Modafferi said in an interview with MMA Junkie. “I was not that happy with my performance in the last several fights.”

    The rise of young and upcoming prospects marks just one of many reasons Modafferi has decided now is the right time to retire.

    As well as previously admitting she’s been feeling the accumulation of damage from years of blows to the head, “The Happy Warrior” identified her relationship and newfound option to start a family as a key part of her decision.

    “Now I have found the love of my life in (fellow fighter) Chris Roman. So maybe I can think about having a family now. Like, that was never an option before. I’ve been single for like decades, but you know, now I can actually think about that, so yeah.“

    Modafferi Is Proud Of Her Accomplishments In MMA

    Despite not having a major piece of gold wrapped around her waist and boasting a visibly mixed record, Modafferi is proud of what she’s accomplished over her 17 years in the sport of MMA.

    For the Delaware native, the goal was always to make it to the big leagues and compete inside the UFC Octagon. Rather than a crucial part of her journey, becoming champion would simply have been an added bonus.

    “My goal (was) basically get to the UFC, right?,” Modafferi said.  “So I basically achieved my life goal because my life goal was never to be champion because that was not an option. But then when the opportunity presented itself, I was like, ‘Cool, let’s try it.’

    “But I really achieved my life goal – fighting in the UFC. I fought like 11 times in the UFC. Like, it’s awesome. I’m just so happy thinking about it. I didn’t win all of them, but I did my best,” Modafferi concluded.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CXnCtw7sHZu/

    This Saturday will see Modafferi walk to the Octagon for the final time. As one-half of the only women’s fight on the UFC 271 card, all eyes will be on “The Happy Warrior” in that regard.

    Do you think Roxanne Modafferi can end her career on a high by defeating Casey O’Neill at UFC 271 this weekend?

  • Derrick Lewis Open To ‘Cup Shoey’ At UFC 271 On One Condition

    UFC heavyweight Derrick Lewis has proposed an alternative celebration to the shoey if he emerges victorious over upcoming opponent Tai Tuivasa at UFC 271 this weekend

    In Saturday’s co-main event, we’ll see a collision of many things. As well as the incredible meeting of power that will take place when Tuivasa and Lewis share the Octagon inside Houston’s Toyota Center, we’ll also see two of the most entertaining and universally loved fighters on the roster compete.

    “The Black Beast” will be looking to carry the momentum of his impressive main event rebound performance last time out. At UFC Vegas 45 in December, Lewis quickly moved past his disappointing interim title loss to Ciryl Gane by brutally knocking out rising contender Chris Daukaus.

    “Bam Bam,” meanwhile, will be looking to extend his four-fight win streak and take a significant leap up the ladder. The #11-ranked heavyweight has knocked out Stefan Struve, Harry Hunsucker, Greg Hardy, and Augusto Sakai since falling to a three-fight skid in 2019.

    Despite two vicious KOs in 2021, the main attraction of Tuivasa’s latest wins have been his infamous shoeys, performed both atop the cage wall and throughout the crowd on his way to the back.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CXXY0h7pD-m/

    Ahead of Tuivasa and Lewis’ clash, one thing has appeared certain: a knockout.

    But while it seemed we’d only be getting treated to another entertaining display of post-fight beer-drinking if the Australian powerhouse gets the finish, the Houston native has proposed a unique celebration of his own.

    While it involves a different utensil, it’s certainly just as, if not more, nasty.

    Lewis Proposes A Shoey Alternative

    During a recent interview with Morning Kombat‘s Brian Campbell, Lewis was asked if he’s planning his own special celebration if he manages to secure a win in front of his hometown crowd.

    While he shut the door on the idea of a shoey, which he’s previously made his views on very clear, “The Black Beast” proposed a follow-up on his cup throw from UFC Vegas 45. But instead of throwing the cup to the crowd, how about a refreshing beverage from inside of it? Lewis said he’d be open to doing just that on the condition that he gets his arm raised Saturday.

    “Nah, I can’t do nothing like that (a shoey), nah. I’d say I’ll take my cup off and drink beer out of that. That’s as far as I’ll go.”

    While Lewis says that’s as far as he’d go, one has to wonder how much further than drinking a beer from a used cup he could go…

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CZPqYULhg8F/

    What have we learned from this? When it comes to beer and feet, Lewis says a big no; but with beer and balls, the answer is absolutely.

    What would you rather see at UFC 271, a traditional Tai Tuivasa shoey or an unorthodox Derrick Lewis cup shoey?

  • Brunson Lays Out Retirement Plan: Beat Cannonier, Beat Izzy, Peace Out

    UFC middleweight Derek Brunson has revealed he’s planning on retiring after two more appearances inside the Octagon.

    Brunson’s recent form has certainly been one of the more surprising stories of resurgence in recent memory. Entering 2019, the North Carolina native, who’s been a part of the UFC roster since 2012, was 2-4.

    A pair of two-fight skids, which featured defeats to reigning champion Israel Adesanya, former titleholder Robert Whittaker, GOAT contender Anderson Silva, and Brazilian grappling legend Ronaldo Souza, were separated by triumphs over Dan Kelly and Lyoto Machida.

    But since being finished by “The Last Stylebender,” Brunson has built an impressive five-fight win streak that has seen him climb to within touching distance of a title shot.

    After rebounding with wins against Elias Theodorou and Ian Heinisch, Brunson hit the form of his life following his transition to the now-infamous “Blonde Brunson.” Since making the hair alteration, the 38-year-old has finished Edmen Shahbazyan and Darren Till and outpointed Kevin Holland, all three of which came in main event contests.

    Having firmly placed himself in the title picture, “Blonde Brunson” will hope to maintain his unbeaten run against Jared Cannonier at UFC 271 this weekend, and secure a second clash with Adesanya, this time with gold on the line.

    Brunson Wants To Ride Out On Top

    While he may be on the best run he’s had across his decade in the promotion, Brunson is still planning on hanging up his gloves soon.

    During his appearance at UFC 271 media day, the #4-ranked middleweight was asked whether he’ll be content waiting for a title shot if Adesanya and Whittaker, who are set to headline this Saturday’s pay-per-view card, complete a trilogy later this year.

    After confirming that a championship opportunity is the only fight he’ll accept if he’s victorious over Cannonier, Brunson laid out his retirement plan, and it’s one that is perhaps further along than most would have expected.

    “I’m gonna sit and wait for a title fight after I win this fight. For sure. I’ve done everything I needed to do in this division,” said Brunson. “Honestly, I plan on fighting two more times. I feel like I’m lucky and blessed to like, fight in the UFC 20 times, and I’m super smart and got a good brain in my head, so I don’t wanna fight until I can’t fight no more. I’m in the best shape. I’m feeling good. So that’s all I’m thinking about right now; beat Cannonier, beat Izzy, and riding out. That’s it.”

    Brunson went on to confirm that regardless of the situation, he’s limiting himself to two more Octagon outings. He cited his desire for more family time and his target of retiring without accumulating significant damage as the reasons behind his decision.

    “Just two more times. You know, I spend a lot of time getting ready for these fights away from my family and stuff, and I’m 38,” Brunson continued. “I’m missing like, soccer games and stuff like that for my daughters. So, that’s more important to me than chasing money and stuff like that. I’ve been smart with my money, made enough money.

    “I have no excuses. I’m in really good shape. I feel really good. I’m motivated. I don’t even plan on losing. But I just know that you can’t do combat sports forever, and end peacefully. I feel like I’ve got a super good brain, my head is good, no injuries, nothing. I think finish my goal, finish my task, complete the mission, get the title, and be like, ‘Peace, I’m out,’” Brunson concluded.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CYM7iRlvcTh/

    With toes dipping in the realms of real estate, gym ownership, fight promotion, and management, Brunson certainly won’t be short of new ventures and exciting possibilities moving forward when he does call an end to his fighting career.

    Do you think Derek Brunson has what it takes to beat Jared Cannonier and dethrone Israel Adesanya?