MMA News

Author: Harvey Leonard

  • Jan Blachowicz Hopes To Be The One To Dethrone Glover Teixeira

    Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jan Blachowicz has expressed his desire to be the man who dethrones reigning titleholder Glover Teixeira.

    Blachowicz was one of the most unlikely champions in UFC history. In 2017, a defeat to Patrick Cummins left him 1-4 across a five-fight period. Just as many expected him to be released, the Pole began a remarkable turnaround. In his next 10 appearances, Blachowicz won nine, defeating the likes of Jared Cannonier, Jimi Manuwa, Nikita Krylov, Luke Rockhold, Corey Anderson, and Jacaré Souza.

    After Jon Jones vacated the 205-pound gold, Blachowicz faced Dominick Reyes for the title at UFC 253. Despite entering the fight as a considerable underdog, the 38-year-old secured a memorable championship crowning with a second-round TKO. Six months later, he defended it for the first time by adding the first blemish to middleweight king Israel Adesanya’s record.

    While many expected veteran Teixeira to be a brief stop-off on the way to a European showdown with the rising Jiƙí ProchĂĄzka, that couldn’t have been further from the reality. At UFC 267, the Brazilian became the second oldest UFC champion in history by submitting Blachowicz in the second round.

    Blachowicz Has His Sights Set On Revenge

    Having left Abu Dhabi slightly lighter with the absence of the light heavyweight gold, Blachowicz’s attention has now turned to redemption. The Cieszyn native will look to rebound in the coming months, something he’s been used to doing across his seven-year career on MMA’s biggest stage.

    During an appearance on Ariel Helwani’s The MMA Hour, Blachowicz made it clear that his desire to be on the 205-pound throne is as strong as ever. When asked to predict the likely next title fight between Teixeira and ProchĂĄzka, the Polish star said he hopes the Brazilian retains so that he can be the one to dethrone him in a rematch.

    “I don’t know if Glover (is) gonna be in the same shape like (when he faced) me. Maybe him. I will keep fingers crossed for him because I would like to take the belt from his hands, you know? And I hope he still will be, you know, he not going to be retired when I get the second chance for the title. I would like to take the belt from him.”

    Blachowicz may well have the chance to secure his shot at redemption when he returns to action in 2022. The 38-year-old revealed he’s targeting March as the month for his first Octagon outing of 2022. Having shut down any talk of a clash with former title challenger Anthony Smith, Blachowicz expressed his desire to face Austrian contender Aleksandar Rakić.

    How do you think rematch between Jan Blachowicz and Glover Teixeira would play out?

  • Marlon Vera Wants Aldo To “Be A Man” And Accept Five-Round Rematch

    UFC bantamweight Marlon “Chito” Vera has called out top-five contender JosĂ© Aldo for a five-round rematch following the Brazilian’s victory over Rob Font this past weekend.

    The pair first collided on a stacked UFC Vegas 17 card last December. At the time, Aldo was on a three-fight losing skid, having fallen to defeats against Alexander Volkanovski, Marlon Moraes, and Petr Yan. Vera, meanwhile, was riding high after becoming the first man to beat Sean O’Malley four months prior.

    Across a competitive three rounds, Aldo had the edge and secured a unanimous decision victory. While he marked his first win at bantamweight, Vera fell short of breaking into contention.

    Since their clash, both men have been in exceptional form. After avenging his previous loss to England’s Davey Grant in a Fight of the Night contest earlier this year, Vera faced former UFC Lightweight Champion Frankie Edgar at UFC 268 last month. Inside Madison Square Garden, “Chito” recorded a memorable highlight-reel knockout courtesy of a front kick.

    For Aldo, two wins in 2021 against top contenders have seen him once again enter the title scene. First was a co-main event triumph over his compatriot Pedro Munhoz at UFC 265 in August. The former featherweight titleholder then extended his streak to three on Saturday with a commanding main event performance against Font, who many had tipped to fight for the title in 2022.

    Vera Shoots His Shot

    Despite their places in the rankings, which sees Vera narrowly outside the top 10 and Aldo firmly inside the top five, the Ecuadorian wants a second chapter with “Junior.”

    Taking to Twitter in the aftermath of Aldo’s latest success, “Chito” challenged the Brazilian to a five-round headliner. As far as ambitious callouts go, this is certainly up there…

    “Let’s do it again @josealdojunior be a man and take a 5 rounder with me.”

    The chance of the rematch happening is slim, at least for now. Aldo firmly has his sights set on reaching the top of the food chain again, something a victory over Vera would not help to achieve.

    While Vera will likely to have to re-adjust his target to the likes of Marlon Moraes and the loser of the upcoming Dominick Cruz vs. Pedro Munhoz clash, Aldo will be hoping to secure a title eliminator against former two-time bantamweight champ TJ Dillashaw.

    Would you like to see Marlon Vera and José Aldo run it back down the line?

  • Hooker On FW Move: We’ll Cross Volkanovski Bridge When We Get To It

    Dan Hooker has spoken about the prospect of moving down to a featherweight division currently ruled by teammate Alexander Volkanovski.

    Hooker, who began his UFC career at 145 pounds, has seen the initial success he achieved after moving up to lightweight stall. Having followed a 3-3 featherweight stint with a 7-1 start at 155 pounds, which saw “The Hangman” add the names of Gilbert Burns, Al Iaquinta, Paul Felder, and James Vick to his rĂ©sumĂ©, Hooker’s pursuit for gold hit a roadblock at the top five.

    Since a main event victory in his home country last February, Hooker has seen Dustin Poirier, Michael Chandler, and Islam Makhachev have their hands raised at his expense. In an effort to revitalize his career, the 31-year-old looks set to return to his old stomping ground in 2022.

    https://twitter.com/danthehangman/status/1462956932486946820

    Hooker Not Fazed By Joining Division Ruled By Teammate

    The UFC featherweight throne is currently occupied by Volkanovski, a City Kickboxing teammate of Hooker. “The Great” successfully ascended the weight classes’ mountaintop with a victory over Max Holloway in 2019, a feat he repeated in his first title defense seven months later.

    Having now brushed aside the challenge of Brian Ortega, Volkanovski, who is riding a 20-fight winning streak, has staked his claim as one of the most dominant active champions in the promotion.

    In a recent interview with It’s Time For Sports, Hooker was asked about the possibility of meeting his friend and teammate inside the Octagon if he commits to a featherweight switch. After stating they’d “cross that bridge” when they arrive at it, “The Hangman” suggested having multiple members of the team high up in a division is not a bad scenario.

    “It’s like, cross that bridge when it comes to it. That is the same as like, Brad (Riddell) in my division at lightweight. It’s never a bad position to be in. To have your training partners or your group of friends so good at fighting that you might, potentially, have to fight each other to be the best fighter in the world. That’s not the worst situation. But it’s like, I want Volk to win as well and I see him being super successful as well.”

    With the ever-changing scope of each division, Hooker also mentioned that his path may never cross with that of Volkanovski, who he predicts will go onto big things in the next few years.

    “The landscape of something can change so quickly in this sport. Over the next year you could see Volk doing some incredible things. You could see Volk moving up to lightweight and being a double champ, and then, you know, fighting Conor McGregor and walking away with $20 million or something crazy. That’s what I see for Volk. You can’t beat me. I want him to win as well, I want Brad to win as well, I want my teammates to be successful as well. It’s not like I want to be successful at their expense. I want to be successful but I want to see them do some incredible things as well.”

    Before reaching the stage where he enters contention, Hooker will first have to establish himself at 145 pounds and record some wins. In what would be a pretty tough first assignment, “The Hangman” recently revealed a clash with “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung would be at the top of his list of desired fights.

    Whoever he ends up facing, there are certainly some exciting matchups for Hooker, with the likes of Calvin Kattar, Giga Chikadze, and Shane Burgos all awaiting him at featherweight.

    Would you like to see teammates Dan Hooker and Alexander Volkanovski collide at featherweight?

  • Peña Says People Are “Sleeping On” Her Ahead Of Nunes Title Fight

    UFC women’s bantamweight contender Julianna Peña believes people are unfairly writing her off ahead of her title fight with Amanda Nunes at UFC 269 this weekend.

    After COVID-19 saw her initial championship challenge postponed, Peña will finally fight for UFC gold for the first time in Las Vegas this Saturday. “The Venezuelan Vixen” will enter the pay-per-view co-main event having gone 2-2 in her last four outings.

    Defeats to Valentina Shevchenko and Germaine de Randamie were split with a decision victory over inaugural flyweight champ Nicco Montaño. A third-round submission win against Sara McMann at UFC 257 in January was enough to secure Peña a date with the “Lioness.”

    Prior to her loss against the current 125-pound queen, Peña defeated the likes of Jessica Eye and Cat Zingano on her way to a perfect 4-0 start on MMA’s biggest stage. The Ultimate Fighter 18 winner will be looking to add the name of Nunes to an already impressive rĂ©sumĂ© on December 11.

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

    A victory will certainly be no easy task. Nunes is the consensus Female GOAT and holds both the bantamweight and featherweight titles. Since a 2014 defeat to Zingano, the Brazilian has won 12 straight contests, defended her titles seven times, and beaten names like Shevchenko, Miesha Tate, Ronda Rousey, Cris Cyborg, Holly Holm, and Raquel Pennington.

    With that in mind, it’s unsurprising not many are giving Peña a chance at having her hand raised at UFC 269. But in an interview with TMZ Sports, the number one contender suggested fans and pundits are wrongly “sleeping” on her, and admitted she’s relishing the underdog status.

    “I feel like a lot of people are sleeping on me, and they think that I’m a sacrificial lamb. But I definitely think that, you know, I know I’m definitely not a sacrificial lamb, and everybody loves an underdog. So, I’m just ready to get out there and bring something better to the table.”

    While many expect another easy ride for Nunes, former two-division title challenger Chael Sonnen shared a similar view as Peña. Although he didn’t predict an upset victory, he did suggest the 32-year-old is a lot more likely to do it than any of the champ’s previous challengers.

    Peña Has ‘Never Felt More Prepared’

    Julianna Pena
    Image Credit: Esther Lin of MMAFighting.com

    In her last two defenses, Nunes successfully retained her 145-pound gold with triumphs over Felicia Spencer and Megan Anderson, the latter of which came via a destructive first-round armbar at UFC 259 in March.

    It’s no secret that to have any hope of dethroning Nunes, Peña will have to be at the top of her game and hope that the two-division titleholder isn’t at the top of hers. According to the Washington native, she’s done everything she can ahead of the final pay-per-view of the year.

    “I am ready. I am in the zone. I have never felt more physically or mentally prepared in my life and it’s my time. It just feels so great to know that I have literally left no stone unturned. I’m ready to go. I’m in the zone… I am more ready than I’ve ever been in my life.”

    Whether her preparation will be enough remains to be seen, but Peña certainly has an aura of confidence that not many have seemed to have prior to facing Nunes. That could, of course, be shut down with another dominant performance from the Brazilian, but anything can happen in MMA…

    Do you think Julianna Peña has what it takes to dethrone Amanda Nunes?

  • Jake Paul vs Tyron Woodley 2 Set After Tommy Fury Pulls Out

    Tommy Fury has reportedly pulled out of his boxing match with YouTube sensation Jake Paul just over 10 days before the pair were scheduled to meet inside the squared circle.

    Fury and Paul have built quite the rivalry in recent weeks and months, one that was expected to come to a head at a Showtime pay-per-view on December 18. But after an initial report from YouTube personality Keemstar, sources confirmed to SunSport’s Chisanga Malata that the grudge match is off after the Englishman was forced to withdraw.

    Both men were heading into their contest unbeaten as professionals. Tommy, the younger half-brother of WBC and The Ring heavyweight champion Tyson Fury, has built an unblemished 7-0 record since his debut in 2018.

    He was last in action on the undercard of Paul’s clash with former UFC welterweight titleholder Tyron Woodley in August. In his first fight outside of the United Kingdom, Fury faced former Bellator MMA fighter Anthony Taylor. After four rounds of action, “TNT” took home a unanimous decision win.

    Paul, meanwhile, is yet to face a boxer. His 4-0 record is comprised of a victory over fellow YouTuber AnEsonGib, former NBA star Nate Robinson, former ONE and Bellator 170-pound champ Ben Askren, and Woodley. While his ability with the gloves is hard to deny at this point, as many in the combat sports community have admitted, his place in the sport will likely not be legitimized until he faces and defeats a professional boxer.

    It appeared he’d have the chance to do just that on December 18, but with today’s news, the wait for that will seemingly go on. Given Paul’s pre-fight comments, which suggested he was skeptical about Fury showing up to fight, the reported withdrawal will likely begin another war of words between the pair.

    Woodley Steps In As Short-Notice Replacement

    MMA reporter Ariel Helwani has now revealed that Tyron Woodley will be stepping in on short notice to fight Jake Paul in a rematch of their August bout that saw Paul take home a decision victory.

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

    From his immediate callout in the ring to getting the previously agreed tattoo, “The Chosen One” has shown he’ll do whatever it takes to secure a chance for redemption. With Fury’s withdrawal, the former UFC champ now has the opportunity he’s been seeking.

    Despite Woodley adhering to the tattoo bet, Paul previously ruled out the possibility of fighting the veteran again. It now looks as though Paul has reneged on his renege.

    Would you like to see Tyron Woodley replace the injured Tommy Fury and rematch Jake Paul?

  • Dustin Poirier Hopes To Test Gaethje’s Oliveira Theory At UFC 269

    UFC lightweight contender Dustin Poirier is looking to test Justin Gaethje’s theory on champion Charles Oliveira’s resolve when he meets the Brazilian at UFC 269.

    Oliveira had UFC gold wrapped around his waist for the first time at UFC 262 in May this year. After the great Khabib Nurmagomedov vacated the title, “Do Bronx” faced relative promotional newcomer Michael Chandler for the belt in a memorable main event clash.

    Despite looking moments away from defeat in the opening round, Oliveira survived and mounted a remarkable second-frame comeback, emerging victorious via TKO. The result saw Oliveira reach the UFC mountaintop after 26 fights in the promotion. His championship crowning was added to a host of accolades, including the records for most submission wins, most finishes, and highest finishes-per-win percentage in UFC history.

    After the post-crowning euphoria, Oliveira’s focus will now be on his upcoming first defense. In the main event of UFC 269 on December 11, he’ll face #1 contender Poirier. “The Diamond” is coming off two victories over megastar Conor McGregor and has now turned his attention back to the title.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CWoEEA5rAV4/

    Poirier Aims To Drag Oliveira To Deep Waters

    Following his victory over Chandler, one of Oliveira’s lightweight peers wasn’t impressed. Former interim champ Justin Gaethje claimed that even in defeat, “Iron” showed that Oliveira is a “quitter.” That’s despite the fact the Brazilian overcame early adversity to finish Chandler. According to “The Highlight,” Poirier will make the champ quit this Saturday.

    Despite not necessarily agreeing with his fellow former interim titleholder, Dustin Poirier does intend on testing his theory when he enters the cage with “Do Bronx.” In a recent interview with MMA Junkie, the Louisianan revealed his intention to test Oliveira’s perseverance by dragging him to deep waters.

    “I would love for the fight to reach that point to where we’ll find out (if Oliveira can dig deep) in front of the world. That’s a goal of mine; to get this fight into deep waters and see who really wants it more, who is willing to bleed more, and leave it all out there. Because I know I will. No question about it.

    Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier
    Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier, Credit: Getty Images

    “But going to what Justin said, dude, I’ve said this. I’m saying the same shit over and over again every interview. It feels corny but when a fighter goes out there, our last fight is the most important. He (Oliveira) got hurt, came back second round and showed his championship grit and finished Michael Chandler; a guy that just took Justin to hell. So, if that says anything, you’re as good as your last fight. He’s a world champion.”

    Perhaps Gaethje will have his own chance to test Oliveira’s toughness if the reigning champ successfully defends his gold against Poirier. After his victory over Chandler at UFC 268, it stands to reason “The Highlight” will challenge the UFC 269 victor in the first half of 2022.

    What do you make of Charles Oliveira’s resolve and toughness?

  • Julianna Peña Predicts “Very Long Night” In UFC 269 War

    Julianna Peña says Amanda Nunes shouldn’t be expecting another comfortable first-round win when they meet in the Octagon.

    After defending her featherweight gold at UFC 250 and 259, Nunes will be returning to 135 pounds this Saturday when Peña becomes the latest challenger to the dominant two-division reign of the “Lioness.” Despite going 2-2 in her last four bouts, which includes defeats to Valentina Shevchenko and Germaine de Randamie, Peña secured a title shot after an exchange with the Brazilian on social media following the champ’s last fight.

    The #3-ranked women’s bantamweight was last in action at UFC 257. A third-round submission victory over Sara McMann brought her back into the win column and was ultimately enough for her to earn a championship opportunity.

    UFC on Twitter: "The UFC BW title is back on the books for December ? ? @Amanda_Leoa and @VenezuelanVixen are set to square off at #UFC269. https://t.co/ANSTPeqyYX" / Twitter

    While many have suggested Nunes is set for another short night at the office, similar to her two-minute submission victory over Megan Anderson last time out, Peña sees the fight playing out very differently.

    While speaking with Jim Varsallone, “The Venezuelan Vixen” suggested her fight with Nunes will go long and be competitive. The 31-year-old went on to add that she’s preparing for a war against the most dominant woman in MMA history.

    “You can predict everything. You can predict the sky’s gonna be pink tomorrow. But at the end of the day, you’re not gonna know until you make it to that point. And when it’s all said and done, then, you’ll be able to say oh, this, this, and look like Nostradamus.

    Julianna Peña
    Photo via Instagram @venezuelanvixen

    “But at the end of the day, I’m not guaranteeing anything other than she is not gonna be in some fight where it’s gonna go a minute and it’s gonna be this gigantic blowout. Absolutely not. It’s going to be a very long night for both of us, and I’m expecting a long, tough, grueling fight. And that’s what I’m preparing for. I’m preparing for war,” said Peña.

    Nunes’ latest title defense won’t be the only championship fight on the UFC 269 card. Her clash with Peña will be followed by a lightweight championship clash between Charles Oliveira (c) and Dustin Poirier in the PPV’s main event.

    Do you think Julianna Peña has what it takes to dethrone Amanda Nunes at UFC 269?

  • Kamaru Usman Pays Covington A High Compliment After UFC 268 Bout

    UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman has described arch-rival Colby Covington as the “most complete” opponent he’s ever faced inside the Octagon.

    Covington has challenged for Usman’s gold on two occasions. In their first meeting, which took place at UFC 245 in December 2019, “Chaos” took the champ to the limit. Having won the 170-pound title with a win against Tyron Woodley nine months earlier, Usman was defending the belt for the first time. It’s arguable that he hasn’t faced a stiffer test since.

    After four rounds of grueling action on the feet, most had the fight level heading into the fifth and final frame. Despite the former interim titleholder’s best efforts, it was Usman who secured a late TKO stoppage.

    After seeing off the threat of Gilbert Burns and two challenges from Jorge Masvidal, Usman ran it back with Covington for his fifth title defense earlier this month. In the main event of UFC 268, “The Nigerian Nightmare” once again defeated the #1-ranked contender, this time on the judges’ scorecards.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CV9peNUMBnR/

    Usman Can’t Pinpoint A Weakness In Covington’s Game

    Having consistently admitted Covington’s ability and strengths inside the Octagon prior to their rematch, the champ has continued to do so in the aftermath of his latest defense and 15th straight UFC triumph.

    During a recent appearance on the Full Send Podcast, Usman discussed where Covington ranks among the other contenders and fighters he’s traded leather with. According to the welterweight kingpin, the 33-year-old is the most well-rounded of them all.

    “Yeah, I wanna say he was probably the most complete. He was the most complete because he can wrestle, he can strike, he has a good gas tank. Usually everybody else, I could kind of pinpoint something about them that’s like… it might be a weakness that I can exploit and I can push for but, you know, he probably was the most complete.” (h/t Sportskeeda)

    Usman’s next step appears to be yet another rematch, this time with Leon Edwards. The Englishman had been set to meet Masvidal at UFC 269 next month. After “Gamebred” withdrew due to injury, “Rocky” announced his intention to wait for a title shot.

    The champ has also made his desire to set-up a blockbuster crossover showdown with boxing’s pound-for-pound best Canelo Álvarez known, something Covington laughed off in a recent interview with MMA News. Whichever route he goes down, Usman will certainly be hoping to further cement his place in the GOAT conversation.

    What should be next for Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington?

  • GSP On Welterweight GOAT Debate: Usman Is “On His Way”

    Former UFC welterweight and middleweight titleholder Georges St-Pierre has suggested Kamaru Usman is “on his way” to achieving GOAT status at 170 pounds.

    With every appearance in the Octagon, Usman is further establishing his reign over the welterweight roster and cementing his status as one of the greatest to have ever fought in the UFC. At 15-0 on MMA’s biggest stage, “The Nigerian Nightmare” boasts the most consecutive wins in the 170-pound division, is just one victory away from equaling Anderson Silva’s tally, and is two more triumphs from leveling Jon Jones’ overall UFC streak record.

    Since dethroning Tyron Woodley at UFC 235 in 2019, Usman has defended the gold five times, twice against Jorge Masvidal and Colby Covington, and once versus Gilbert Burns. After marking his third win of the year by seeing off the challenge of “Chaos” for the second time, many, including UFC President Dana White, believe the champ has secured top spot in the welterweight GOAT debate.

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

    Has St-Pierre Been Dethroned?

    The consensus best-ever at 170 pounds has long been Georges St-Pierre. The UFC Hall of Famer is a two-time champ, having won the belt from Matt Hughes in 2007 and regained it against Matt Serra in a 2008 unification clash. Across an incredible nine title defenses during his second reign, “Rush” saw off the challenges of stars like BJ Penn, Thiago Alves, Dan Hardy, Carlos Condit, and Nick Diaz.

    Despite his incredible accomplishments, which also transcended over to middleweight, GSP has seemingly come to terms with the possibility of Usman surpassing his legacy in the weight class.

    During a recent episode of SPORF’s Hot Takes, the Canadian was shown a tweet in which the user suggested “The Nigerian Nightmare” has what it takes to be the welterweight GOAT. In response, St-Pierre admitted the current champ is “on his way.”

    “Well he’s on his way. Rome was not built in a week. It took years. So, same thing with Kamaru Usman. He’s on his way. He’s doing fantastic and I’m a big fan of him. I truly believe, right now, he’s probably the best fighter right now, and probably the best active fighter in the UFC. He’s doing very well. Only the future will tell us.”

    While St-Pierre continues to push away talk of a return to the Octagon, Usman will be analyzing the current welterweight landscape in preparation for his next challenger. Most believe the champ will run it back with Leon Edwards next. “Rocky” is unbeaten in 10 fights since a loss to Usman.

    With Vicente Luque, Khamzat Chimaev, and Sean Brady all looking to rise up and earn a shot at the king, Usman could get close to St Pierre’s title-defense record if he can continue his dominance in the cage.

    Do you think Kamaru Usman can surpass Georges St-Pierre to become the welterweight GOAT?

  • Quote: Francis Ngannou Could Leave The UFC If He Loses To Ciryl Gane

    Former referee and current broadcaster John McCarthy believes UFC Heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou could depart the promotion if he’s beaten by interim titleholder Ciryl Gane at UFC 270.

    Ngannou has been fighting on MMA’s biggest stage since 2015. After failing to capture gold in his first title shot, “The Predator” fought his way back to the top with a destructive tear through Curtis Blaydes, Cain Velasquez, Junior dos Santos, and Jairzinho Rozenstruik. In a rematch with Stipe Miocic at UFC 260 earlier this year, Ngannou secured his place on the throne with another brutal knockout.

    Meanwhile, another name to come out of Paris’ renowned MMA Factory gym made his way up the heavyweight ladder. Since a transition to MMA from Muay Thai in 2018, Gane has made it to the UFC, defeated the likes of dos Santos, Rozenstruik, and Alexander Volkov, main evented three cards, and won the interim title.

    The two former teammates are now set to collide in a blockbuster unification bout in the main event of UFC 270 on January 22.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CVYuAm1h47d/

    McCarthy Says All Isn’t Well between Ngannou & The UFC

    Despite currently occupying the top step in the heavyweight division, Ngannou’s reign hasn’t been without frustration. Despite only winning the belt in March, an interim strap was created just five months later. The decision to do so came despite the champ’s willingness to defend his newly won title a month later in September. That led to UFC President Dana White clashing with Ngannou’s manager.

    That certainly created some friction between Ngannou and the UFC, with “The Predator” even suggesting the promotion sought to discredit and sabotage him. To go along with that, the Cameroonian powerhouse has also expressed concern over his contract.

    Speaking on a recent episode of the Weighing In podcast, John McCarthy discussed Ngannou’s gripes with the Dana White-led organization. Given the champ’s fractured relationship with the UFC, the 59-year-old wouldn’t be surprised to see him choose to leave if he fails to hold onto his title in January.

    “If we’re gonna take a look and say, realistically, what is someone that could jump right (to another promotion), I’m telling you right now – Francis Ngannou. That’s the guy that can make the jump. That’s the guy that could leave his promotion. If he does not beat Ciryl Gane, I see him leaving the UFC and going elsewhere because he’s not happy with the way he’s been treated. I do think that that could be a possibility if you see Ciryl Gane taking that belt away from him.” (h/t Sportskeeda)

    Having built a reputation as one of the biggest names in the sport and one of the most renowned knockout artists in the world, it would certainly be a surprise to see “The Predator” part ways with MMA’s premier promotion.

    However, the champ’s disdain for the way he’s been treated is clear, and he may well choose to pursue greener pastures if “Bon Gamin” takes his gold next year.

    Do you agree with John McCarthy? Could you see Francis Ngannou leaving the UFC if Ciryl Gane defeats him at UFC 270?

  • Dariush: Khabib’s Double Bonus Makhachev Claim Is Just A Drama Show

    UFC lightweight contender Beneil Dariush has responded to Khabib Nurmagomedov’s claim that Islam Makhachev will receive a “double bonus” if he finishes him.

    Earlier this week, another blockbuster clash in the 155-pound division was revealed. In November we had a barnburner between Justin Gaethje and Michael Chandler, this month will see Dustin Poirier challenge for Charles Oliveira’s gold, and February 2022 will now see top-five elites Dariush and Makhachev collide in a UFC Fight Night main event.

    Both men will enter the five-rounder riding lengthy winning streaks. For the Iranian-born American, victories over names like Drew Dober, Drakkar Klose, Diego Ferreira, and Tony Ferguson have seen him have his hand raised in seven straight fights. Makhachev, meanwhile, got past Arman Tsarukyan, Thiago Moisés, and Dan Hooker on his way to nine consecutive triumphs.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CWyQIc0twjW/

    In the aftermath of the booking being reported, Makhachev’s compatriot, friend, and teammate Khabib appeared to make a revelation. “The Eagle” claimed the #4-ranked lightweight will receive a special reward from the UFC if he’s able to put Dariush away inside the 25-minute distance on February 26.

    Dariush Says The “Double Bonus” Is In His Contract As Well

    According to Dariush, Khabib’s comments were simply an attempt to add a little drama to the matchup, as he boasts the same bonus in his own contract. During an interview with ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto, the 32-year-old confirmed that Makhachev isn’t receiving anything special or unheard of.

    “I don’t know if I feel like I’m in competition with him (Khabib), but I feel like, maybe, he’s trying to do a little bit of a drama show. Like when he talks about contracts and how Islam is getting a bonus to finish me and stuff like that. You know, I feel like he’s throwing a little digs in there, which, in reality, I think is funny… I was gonna joke, I was like, ‘Man, I’m gonna call Ali (Abdelaziz) and tell him, listen Ali, give me Khabib’s number, I wanna make this guy my manager because I don’t understand why he’s getting bonuses.’

    “But I’m just kidding. In reality, I get the same thing. I have the same thing in my contract… I have that double bonus in my contract. Yeah, yeah, I have the same assurances… It has nothing to do with the name of the fighter, it’s just in your contract. So, you know, drama show, everywhere you go it’s a little bit of a drama show. But at least the way Khabib does it, it’s not like, personal. So I don’t mind it, I actually appreciate it.”

    While he knows he’ll be receiving the same double bonus as Makhachev if he finishes the Dagestani, Dariush isn’t so sure he has the same assurances when it comes to a title shot. Despite a victory over Makhachev, on paper, making him the clear top contender, the 32-year-old recognizes that the promotion will do whatever is best for business.

    “I don’t know about if I’m going to get a title shot. Listen, with me, just because the way I am, you never know when I’m gonna get this title shot. And I don’t think it’s because Dana (White) or Sean (Shelby) don’t like me, I think they like me, but like, they’re businessmen. They have to make the right choice for their business; what’s gonna sell more pay-per-view, what’s gonna get more eyes on the fights, and I recognize that… If I continue doing what I’m doing inside that Octagon, I’m eventually gonna get the eyes and the people to open up their pocketbooks and pay for that pay-per-view.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CW3c3wapzgR/

    Should Beneil Dariush receive a title shot if he halts the charge of Islam Makhachev in February 2022?

  • JosĂ© Aldo: “I’m Not Going To Stop Until I Get This Title”

    UFC bantamweight contender José Aldo has no intention of calling time on his career until he has gold wrapped around his waist again.

    Also is widely regarded as the greatest featherweight of all time. Between 2011 and 2015, the Brazilian defended the 145-pound UFC title seven times, the most in the division’s history. Before falling to his first loss in the promotion at the hands of Conor McGregor, Aldo defeated names like Chad Mendes, Frankie Edgar, and Chan Sung Jung.

    After going 3-4 at featherweight between 2015 and 2019, Aldo made the move down to 135 pounds. Following a controversial divisional-debut loss to Marlon Moraes, which many believe “Junior” won, Aldo fought Petr Yan for the vacant belt last July. He fell short of reaching a second mountaintop after being brutally finished in the fifth round.

    But that hasn’t damaged the veteran’s title aspirations. Having gotten on the board in his new weight class with decision victories over Marlon Vera and Pedro Munhoz, Aldo will be looking to move one step closer to a second bantamweight title shot when he returns to action this weekend at UFC Vegas 44. In his way will be #4-ranked contender Rob Font.

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

    Aldo Maintains Championship Aspirations

    Despite recording back-to-back wins over a couple of well-established bantamweight contenders, not many believe Aldo can attain championship status again. The great Khabib Nurmagomedov, who retired as an unbeaten lightweight champion following his victory over Justin Gaethje last year, even suggested it would be impossible for “Junior” to experience a second peak.

    Nevertheless, that isn’t fazing Aldo. During UFC Vegas 44 media day, the Brazilian claimed he won’t be hanging up his gloves until he secures his place on the bantamweight throne. The 35-year-old cited Glover Teixeira’s recent light heavyweight championship crowning at UFC 267, which came two days after his 42nd birthday, as proof he can mount another run for gold.

    “If you look at Glover Teixeira, I’m still a kid,” Aldo said. “I want to continue doing this and I’m not going to stop until I get this title and I’m going to continue fighting at this high level.” (h/t FanSided)

    If Aldo can stop the surge of the charging Font in this weekend’s main event, he’ll certainly arrive back into contention. From there, he’s targeting a title eliminator with former two-time champ TJ Dillashaw, who returned from suspension with a victory over Cory Sandhagen last year.

    Given his emphatic defeat to Yan last summer, it stands to reason Aldo will need Aljamain Sterling to walk away from his unification bout against the Russian with the belt still in his possession. if that’s the case, and Aldo has his hand raised against Font and Dillashaw, perhaps there’s another title fight in the legend yet.

    Do you believe José Aldo has what it takes to become a UFC champion again?

  • Rob Font Doesn’t Believe Aldo Win Will Get Him A Title Shot

    UFC bantamweight contender Rob Font believes he’ll need a couple more victories before he earns a shot at 135-pound gold.

    Since an inconsistent start in the promotion saw him go 5-3, which included losses to John Lineker, Pedro Munhoz, and Raphael Assunção, Font has been in fine form. After decision wins against Sergio Pettis and Ricky Simón put him back on track, the 34-year-old shot into contention with a TKO victory over former title challenger Marlon Moraes.

    Font jumped even closer to the bantamweight title this year with a headlining five-round triumph versus former champ Cody Garbrandt. Having leaped into the top five, the Massachusetts native is set for his second main event of 2021 this weekend at UFC Vegas 44. He’ll face former featherweight kingpin JosĂ© Aldo.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdjK7DpasY/

    In a recent interview with MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Font said that while his December 4 clash isn’t an interim title opportunity, which he was forced to turn down in October, Aldo is still a huge name that he hopes to use to cement himself further into contention.

    “We had to turn it (UFC 267 interim title fight) down, but at the same time it was like, ‘This doesn’t work, but we might have something for you in a couple of weeks after that.’ I kind of had an idea it would be Aldo. So I was like, ‘Yeah, alright, that works, perfect.’ It’s not, obviously, an interim belt, but it’s just as big a name, just as big of a challenge, and it puts me right back into title contention. This’ll be my fifth win (in a row). You can’t deny I’m there (in contention).”

    With a win, Font will add yet another former UFC titleholder to his rĂ©sumĂ© and extend his winning streak to five. Despite that, the #4-ranked contender doesn’t see himself getting a title shot with a victory over “Junior.”

    “It’s weird, it’s tough, because the division’s all jacked up. You’ve got Sterling still out, I’m pretty sure Cory is still in the mix, obviously, even though he lost two in a row, and then you’ve got TJ (Dillashaw) coming back. So it’s like, even after this win, I still think I have one more before I even get like, a real title shot.”

    Font Targets Dillashaw Or Loser Of Yan vs. Sterling 2 

    Having revealed his expectation that he’ll have to fight again before securing his first championship opportunity, Rob Font discussed the options he’ll have for 2022 if he emerges victorious on Saturday.

    As well as the possibility of facing Cory Sandhagen, who was granted the interim title shot at UFC 267 after Font’s inability to make the date, the 34-year-old mentioned TJ Dillashaw or the loser of the inevitable unification fight between UFC Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling and interim titleholder Petr Yan.

    “It’s frustrating (the current bantamweight situation). It’d be more frustrating not knowing when I’m gonna fight. But at least I have options. I feel like I have options, as far as maybe fighting the loser of Aljamain and Yan fight or, you know, maybe get in there with TJ… That’s all cool, but I’ve still gotta win these fights; I’ve gotta win the Aldo fight. I feel like we’re there. I’ve got this fight, then one more fight, obviously Cory Sandhagen’s still out there, too. I just gotta go out there, do my job, and see how this all shapes out.”

    Do you think Rob Font will move further into contention with a victory over José Aldo this weekend?

  • Rob Font: JosĂ© Aldo Hasn’t Faced A Jab Like Mine

    UFC bantamweight contender Rob Font believes he’ll be bringing a weapon to JosĂ© Aldo that the former featherweight champion has never faced before.

    The pair are set to collide in this weekend’s UFC Vegas 44 main event, which will be held in the familiar surroundings of the Apex facility in Las Vegas, Nevada. For Font, Saturday’s clash will represent his second headliner of the year.

    Since defeats to Pedro Munhoz and Raphael Assunção stalled his rise up the 135-pound ladder, Font has been unstoppable. In three straight wins, the 34-year-old defeated Sergio Pettis and Ricky Simón on the scorecards, and finished former title challenger Marlon Moraes.

    Those victories earned him a main event slot against Cody Garbrandt. Across five rounds at UFC Vegas 27 earlier this year, Font outstruck the former champ on his way to a comfortable unanimous decision.

    With his place in the top five and title contention cemented, Font will look to jump one step closer to the throne with a victory over Aldo this weekend.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CW5-zkpNek9/

    Font “Lives And Breathes” With His Jab

    Aldo is widely regarded as the greatest featherweight of all time. The two-time and inaugural 145-pound titleholder defended the gold a record seven times between 2011 and 2015. In that period, he fended off the challenges of Chad Mendes, Frankie Edgar, and “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung.

    Given his upcoming foe’s success at featherweight, and reported weight struggles earlier in his career, Rob Font told MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck that he never thought a fight against Aldo was a possibility.

    “I’d have thought you were crazy man (if you pitched a fight with Aldo years ago), especially (because) he was having trouble making weight for a little bit at 45, you know. There was a couple times where there was rumors that he wasn’t gonna make the weight and all that. So, I definitely wouldn’t have believed he’d make his way down to 35. I don’t know what he did with a nutritionist, if he got a nutritionist or whatever, but he’s making weight… Now we get to jump in there and mix it up, and become a legend.”

    Despite his opponent’s immense experience, which has seen him rack up 37 professional fights across over 17 years in the sport, Font expects to have something new for Aldo. The Massachusetts native doubts that “Junior” has ever faced a jab quite like his.

    “It’s crazy because he’s fought everybody you could think of, from Max Holloway to Volkanovski to Faber, back in the day with WEC. He’s seen it, done it, so there’s nothing that I can throw at him that he hasn’t seen, except for how consistent I am with my jab and how much I believe in it; how dedicated I am to it. I do believe that I’m really consistent and accurate with it, and I don’t think he’s ever fought anyone that lives and breathes with their jab.”

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

    As well as the blockbuster main event between Font and Aldo, a number of other matchups are set to thrill fans on Saturday night. In the co-main event, lightweight friends Brad Riddell and Rafael Fiziev will throw down in a fight many believe will earn the Fight of the Night honor.

    Elsewhere, the likes of Jimmy Crute, Jamahal Hill, Alonzo Menifield, Mickey Gall, Louis Smolka, Clay Guida, and Brendan Allen will all be in action. It stands to reason they’ll set the table nicely for the night’s bantamweight main course.

    Who do you think will have their hand raised in the UFC Vegas 44 main event, Rob Font or José Aldo?

  • Cannonier Vows To “Turn Blonde Brunson Into Blood Brunson” At UFC 270

    UFC middleweight Jared Cannonier is confident he’ll become the first man to defeat “Blonde Brunson” when they collide at UFC 270.

    The two top-five contenders are set to meet in an apparent title eliminator at the first pay-per-view of 2022. Having competed across three different weight classes in the UFC, a victory would likely lead to Cannonier’s first title shot on MMA’s biggest stage.

    Since moving down to 185 pounds, “The Killa Gorilla” has gone 4-1. Three straight victories over David Branch, Anderson Silva, and Jack Hermansson established himself in the championship conversation. While a loss on the scorecards and a broken arm at the hands of former champ Robert Whittaker stalled his charge to the top, Cannonier revived his title aspirations with a main event win against perennial contender Kelvin Gastelum in August.

    Brunson, meanwhile, has transcended from the status of divisional gatekeeper to contender with an impressive five-fight winning streak since a defeat to current champ Israel Adesanya. After decision triumphs over Elias Theodorou and Ian Heinisch, “Blonde Brunson” entered the scene and dominated Edmen Shahbazyan, Kevin Holland, and Darren Till. The veteran will be looking to secure a rematch with “The Last Stylebender” at Cannonier’s expense come January 22.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CVyuh3ConYP/

    Despite his opponent’s hot form, Cannonier is confident he’ll impose his will and end Brunson’s unbeaten run as a blonde fighter when they enter the Octagon together. In an interview with The Schmo, the 37-year-old revealed his intention to adjust Brunson’s new moniker in a brutal way.

    “Get ready. I’m about to bust open this UFC middleweight division wide open as soon as I turn blonde Brunson into blood Brunson, because I’m gonna bloody him up, I’mma batter him up. Ground beef Brunson, whatever the hell you wanna call him, I’mma beat this man up. Then I’m gonna move on to my title, and I plan on doing the same thing to each and every person after that.”

    Cannonier: I’m A Terrible Matchup For Brunson

    Despite mostly being known for his standup skills, which has helped him record nine knockouts in his 19-fight professional career, Cannonier believes he has the grappling pedigree to hang with the best in that regard.

    For that reason, “The Killa Gorilla” believes his all-round abilities make him a terrible matchup for Brunson, who has often been criticized for his technique on the feet.

    “I think it’s a perfect matchup for me. It’s a classic grappler vs. predominant striker in myself. But I can grapple with the best as well. And I feel that, you know, this is a perfect matchup for me, a terrible matchup for him. So yeah, I plan on going in there and making that happen.”

    A victory for either man should see them book a meeting with either Adesanya or Whittaker for the second half of 2022. The reigning middleweight king is expected to defend his title against former champ “The Reaper” at the UFC 271 pay-per-view in February.

    Who do you think will have their hand raised at UFC 270, Jared Cannonier or Derek Brunson?

  • Sandhagen: Font Beats Aldo 9 Times Out Of 10 In A 5-Rounder

    UFC bantamweight contender Cory Sandhagen has given his prediction for the upcoming 135-pound main event between Rob Font and José Aldo.

    The pair are set to headline next weekend’s UFC Vegas 44 event inside the UFC Apex facility. Font, who has surged up the rankings after an inconsistent start to his career in the promotion, will enter the clash riding a four-fight winning streak. Since losses to Pedro Munhoz and Raphael Assunção, the 34-year-old has outpointed Sergio Pettis, Ricky SimĂłn, and Cody Garbrandt, and finished Marlon Moraes.

    After a dominant main event victory over “No Love” earlier this year, Font will be preparing for his second consecutive main event. His opponent will also be carrying some form into the December 4 card.

    After three consecutive defeats, including an 0-2 start at bantamweight, Aldo rebounded with controlling decisions over Munhoz and Marlon Vera. He’ll look to continue his road back to UFC gold with a victory over #4-ranked Font.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CUdjK7DpasY/

    Sandhagen Confidently Backs Font

    Sandhagen, a former interim title challenger and undoubtedly one of the top contenders in the bantamweight division, has given his take on next weekend’s main event. Speaking to MMA journalist James Lynch, “The Sandman,” who is yet to meet either man inside the Octagon, suggested there’s little chance of the former featherweight champion getting the job done on December 4.

    “Yeah, that’s a good one. I think Font will win. Is that one a five-rounder? I definitely think Font would win that 9 times out of 10 in a five-rounder. (I’ve) definitely got Font.”

    Given the fact Sandhagen, who sits at #3 on the bantamweight ladder, recently fell short of an interim title crowning against Petr Yan at UFC 267, and has already fought and lost to #2-ranked contender TJ Dillashaw, it seems inevitable the 29-year-old will be matched up with the Font vs. Aldo victor in 2022.

    Do you agree with Cory Sandhagen? Will Rob Font defeat José Aldo at UFC Vegas 44?

  • Dana White Compares Conor McGregor To Rocky Balboa

    UFC President Dana White believes former two-division champion Conor McGregor currently has as much desire to fight inside the Octagon as ever.

    While McGregor’s global superstardom and prominence hasn’t dwindled, his form inside the Octagon has plummeted off a metaphorical cliff. By the end of 2016, the Irishman boasted a 9-1 UFC record and was the promotion’s first-ever simultaneous two-division champion. In just four fights since, which came in-between large periods of inactivity, McGregor has gone 1-3.

    Aside from a sole welterweight victory over veteran Donald Cerrone, McGregor has struggled, losing to Khabib Nurmagomedov and twice to Dustin Poirier. Having been knocked out for the first time in his career by “The Diamond” in January this year, McGregor hoped to revive his pursuit to regain the lightweight title at UFC 264 in July. Instead, the 33-year-old left the Octagon with another setback and this time on a stretcher, courtesy of a gruesome broken leg.

    White Is Confident Motivation Isn’t An Issue For McGregor

    Given his form in recent years, the severity of the injury he suffered in the trilogy fight with Poirier, and the immense wealth he already owns, many predicted we’d seen the last of the former double champ inside the Octagon. But if McGregor is to be believed, he’s as eager as ever to fight.

    Having consistently showed the progress he’s been making on his journey to recovery, McGregor has recently been discussing his return to action heavily on social media. After revealing his intention to make his comeback against whoever is holding the lightweight title at the time, the Dublin native suggested he’ll return to full MMA sparring by April.

    During a recent appearance on the Jim Rome Podcast, UFC kingpin Dana White said McGregor’s eagerness to return is genuine, and agreed that a return to sparring in the second quarter of 2022 is an accurate timeframe.

    “Yeah, he’s chomping at the bit to get back in there and compete again. It’s gonna be a while before he can start to put some thwark on that leg so, April, for him to start training again in April, is probably about right.”

    Busting the myth that McGregor has lost his Octagon appetite, White claimed the Irishman’s desire to fight at the highest level still exists.

    “Listen, he obviously still has the desire to compete. You know, you don’t ever hear Conor going, ‘You know what, man? I just don’t have the desire for this anymore.’ Yes, he’s obviously very rich and he’s training like Rocky in Rocky 3, you know what I mean? But he still has the desire to compete and the desire to fight. We’ll see what happens.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CW-lAT3JoWC/

    What’s certain is that McGregor won’t be short of options when his comeback is due. Aside from the lightweight title shot he desires, which could come in the form of a fourth clash with Poirier, and the fact virtually everyone would accept a fight with him, a number of contenders have made their desire to face him known.

    Ahead of his clash with Yair Rodriguez, Max Holloway made it clear that he’d be willing to run it back with the Irishman, who defeated him back in 2013. Meanwhile, Michael Chandler is continuing to look for big fights, and called out McGregor for a 2022 booking.

    Do you think Conor McGregor can make a successful comeback?

  • Rob Font: Sterling’s Lack Of Rhythm Will Give Yan The Win In Rematch

    UFC bantamweight contender Rob Font doesn’t see any path to victory for Aljamain Sterling in his unification bout with arch-rival Petr Yan.

    Yan and Sterling met in the octagon earlier this year at UFC 259. At the time, the Russian was undefeated in the UFC and occupied the 135-pound throne. “Funkmaster,” meanwhile, entered his first championship opportunity off the back of a five-fight winning streak that included victories over Cody Stamann, Jimmie Rivera, Pedro Munhoz, and Cory Sandhagen.

    After three rounds, Yan was firmly in the driving seat and looked on his way to a comfortable first defense. However, disaster struck for “No Mercy” in the fourth frame when he delivered an illegal knee to a downed Sterling. With the 32-year-old unable to continue, Yan was disqualified and the belt left the Apex in the possession of Sterling.

    Font Backs The Interim Titleholder

    Since their controversial March clash, Sterling has been on the sidelines having undergone neck surgery. After being unable to put the strap on the line in a rematch with Yan at UFC 267 in October, the former champ met Cory Sandhagen in Abu Dhabi for interim gold.

    Having left Fight Island with a belt around his waist again, courtesy of a five-round win against “The Sandman,” Yan has set up a blockbuster second fight with Sterling. And according to one top contender, who sees the Russian as the true bantamweight champion, he shouldn’t have much trouble unifying the titles.

    During an interview with MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, the #4-ranked Rob Font discussed Yan’s incredible standup skills inside the Octagon, describing the interim titleholder as “on fire” right now.

    “Petr Yan is real calculated. He’s real efficient with his movement and his energy, and he kinda has, almost like a boxer’s approach where he kinda like, I don’t wanna say takes a round off, but he kinda feels you out for the first round, and then out of nowhere just turns it up as far as the cardio and the pressure and the power that he throws. It’s almost like he’s touching, touching, touching, and then out of nowhere big shots come in.

    “He’s accurate and he’s confident right now. He’s beating everybody, he basically was winning that last fight versus Aljamain and just beat Cory Sandhagen, so he’s confident. That guy’s on fire. There’s nothing but killers in this division, man.”

    Turning his attention to Yan vs. Sterling 2, which is expected to go down in the first quarter of 2022, Font suggested “Funkmaster” has little chance of emerging victorious. The 34-year-old believes Sterling has no rhythm on the feet, and unless he’s improved his wrestling exponentially, will have nothing to trouble Yan.

    “You know what it is, man? It’s kind of messed up like, he just doesn’t have any rhythm. Aljamain doesn’t have any rhythm. It’s the weirdest thing ever. He doesn’t know how to string together combinations. It’s either touch, touch, touch and a big shot, and if he doesn’t get a takedown it’s kinda like, it’s obvious what he’s tryna do. He’s not putting together crazy power shots, so it’s tough man. You got a guy like Yan and you’re not really hitting him with something he has to respect. Why would he (Yan) stop coming forward?

    “Then you saw the wrestling, and if he’s (Sterling) not a total different fighter when it comes to that wrestling pace and getting those takedowns, I don’t see him just dominating the takedown either, so it’s kinda like, you know, anything can happen. I don’t think he’s got a puncher’s chance. I don’t see it happening. I think Yan wins a decision.”

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CW9oKM9olms/

    Given his place on the bantamweight ladder, Font will certainly be keeping a close eye on the division’s next title fight, especially if he extends his winning streak to five with a victory over JosĂ© Aldo this weekend. The pair are set to meet in the main event of UFC Vegas 44 on Saturday.

    Despite admitting he’ll likely have to win two more fights to secure a title shot, Font will be looking to set up a meeting with the champ for the second half of 2022.

    Do you agree with Rob Font? Will Petr Yan exact his revenge on Aljamain Sterling in their rematch?

  • Brandon Moreno Reveals Advice Compatriot Canelo Alvarez Gave Him

    UFC Flyweight Champion Brandon Moreno has revealed the important advice his fellow Mexican titleholder Canelo Alvarez gave him.

    In one of the most heart-warming title wins of 2021, Moreno reached the 125-pound mountaintop at UFC 263 in June. It came just two years and six fights after he was released by the promotion following back-to-back losses against Sergio Pettis and Alexandre Pantoja.

    Having returned to MMA’s biggest stage and built a three-fight winning streak that included triumphs over Kai Kara-France and Brandon Royval, Moreno earned a shot at Deiveson Figueiredo’s gold. At UFC 256 last December, the pair went to war in a Fight of the Year contender, which ended in a majority draw.

    As expected, the two elite flyweights collided once again exactly six months later. This time, in front of a sold-out Arizona crowd, “The Assassin Baby” dominated, finishing “Deus Da Guerra” with a third-round rear-naked choke.

    After injuries to Askar Askarov and Alexandre Pantoja prevented them from challenging for the title, Moreno will defend his belt for the first time in a trilogy fight against Figueiredo at UFC 270 on January 22.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CVY_1xfPR4y/

    Moreno Learned A Thing Or Two From Boxing’s P4P King

    Moreno will certainly be looking to put in a similar display when he shares the Octagon with Figueiredo for the third time. And a meeting with fellow Mexican champion Canelo Alvarez would certainly have done no harm to that quest.

    A month out from his championship victory, Moreno joined boxing’s pound-for-pound best in the gym. Not only was it an opportunity for the flyweight champ to mingle with his nation’s top sportsman, but it was also a chance for him to learn from one of the greatest pugilists of all time.

    During a recent appearance on Ariel Helwani’s The MMA Hour, Moreno discussed his first meeting with the 31-year-old, and dispelled a myth about the Guadalajara native’s character.

    “Yes, (it) was my first time (meeting Canelo). I just wanna say, that guy is amazing. He’s a really good guy because, a lot of people thing he’s a little bit like, I don’t know how you say in English, but a bad guy, not a good people, but the guy is serious, definitely is a little bit serious, but he’s very honest and he has a really good vibe. With him, and around him, all the people around him, it’s like, very professional, with really good vibes.”

    Canelo boasts a remarkable 57-1 record inside the squared circle. His only blemish came at the hands of the consensus greatest of all time Floyd Mayweather. Thanks to wins over the likes of Billy Joe Saunders, Gennady Golovkin, Amir Khan, and Sergey Kovalev, the Mexican became the first boxer in history to become an undisputed champion at super middleweight.

    Given Canelo’s incredible success and accomplishments in the ring, it stands to reason not many are more qualified to give lessons on dealing with fame and championship glory. With that in mind, Moreno said the boxing great reminded him to remain focused on his career, even with the “luxury” that will begin to surround him.

    “I talked a little bit with him, with Canelo. He give me some advice about, you know, about the success, about the glory, what happens when you have all this success, what happens with the people around you. (He said) ‘You need to be focused on the goal, and you need to be focused in your career with all the luxury around you.’ But man, now I know why the guy is the best in the world right now in boxing.”

    With Canelo’s advice under his belt, Moreno will push forward with his reign atop the flyweight throne. Given Figueiredo’s work with former two-division UFC champion Henry Cejudo, it’ll seemingly be a battle of legends’ advice come January 22.

    What do you make of Canelo’s advice for Brandon Moreno?

  • Dana White: Nobody Wants To Fight Khamzat Chimaev

    UFC President Dana White has described surging welterweight contender Khamzat Chimaev as one of the “baddest dudes” he’s come across, and claimed nobody wants to face him inside the Octagon.

    Not many fighters have transcended from relative obscurity to the brink of stardom in a more impressive and rapid way than Chimaev. In four UFC outings, “Borz” has built a reputation as an always-game, destructive, and dominant athlete, who is seemingly already inches away from a title shot.

    After winning his opening three fights on MMA’s biggest stage against John Phillips, Rhys McKee, and Gerald Meerschaert within the space of 66 days, Chimaev found himself sidelined for over a year due to a tough battle with COVID-19. But when he returned at UFC 267, the Chechen-born Swede picked right back up from where he left off.

    Maintaining his 100% finishing record in the UFC, Chimaev submitted ranked contender Li Jingliang inside the opening frame. After choking “The Leech” unconscious in Abu Dhabi, the undefeated 27-year-old it made it clear he was ready to “smash” anyone and everyone.

    Chimaev’s Next Challenge

    Having jumped back onto the welterweight ladder in emphatic fashion, talk has turned to who Chimaev could face next. While some have called for him to be elevated to the top to face Kamaru Usman, Dana White suggested he needs “one or two” more victories over top contenders before competing for the title.

    During a recent appearance on the Jim Rome Podcast, the UFC kingpin said that while no opponent has been made official, they’re hoping to confirm Chimaev’s next matchup soon.

    “Khamzat Chimaev is one of the baddest dudes that I’ve ever come across. He is literally willing to fight anyone and doesn’t care what the timeframe is or any of that stuff… We’re working on (getting his next fight booked). Hopefully this week we’ll have an opponent for him.”

    However, finding that foe is seemingly proving to be a tough task. White suggested that, understandably, not many are throwing their name into the hat to be matched up with the wrestling brute. That’s despite what some contenders may say on Twitter and Instagram.

    “Nobody wants to fight this guy. Everybody wants to get out on social media and say this or that. But when it really comes down to it, nobody is trying to fight Khamzat Chimaev. I don’t blame them.” (h/t MMA Junkie)

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CWdrtf6M2Fm/

    Despite initially confirming he was 100% down to organize Chimaev vs. Nate Diaz, the radio silence on that booking seems to suggest the Stockton native will face another name for the final fight of his UFC contract.

    Attention has since turned to a potential clash with former title challenger and top-five welterweight Gilbert Burns. Last month, it was revealed that the UFC was targeting a clash between “Durinho” and “Borz” for January. While there’s yet to be any official word or update on the matter, Chimaev recently suggested the ball is in the court of the Brazilian’s manager Ali Abdelaziz.

    With Daniel Cormier, Leon Edwards, and even Brock Lesnar and Georges St-Pierre recently in the firing line, it’s anyone’s guess who Chimaev will call out next…

    Who would you like to see Khamzat Chimaev enter the Octagon with next?

  • Jan Blachowicz: I’d Have Lost To Anybody At UFC 267

    Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jan Blachowicz has addressed his UFC 267 loss to Glover Teixeira, claiming he’d have “lost to anybody” that night.

    Blachowicz’s career has often been a tale of resurgence and beating the odds. Having had a veteran complete his journey at the Pole’s expense in October, the 38-year-old will have to dig deep and bounce back from a setback once again.

    In 2017, a defeat to Patrick Cummins meant Blachowicz was 1-4 in his previous five fights and on the brink of being released from the UFC. From there, the Cieszyn native defeated the likes of Jared Cannonier, Jimi Manuwa, Luke Rockhold, and Corey Anderson on his way to a title shot. There, he defied the odds and finished Dominick Reyes to experience a heart-warming championship crowning.

    Having defended the gold at UFC 259 earlier this year by becoming the first man to defeat middleweight titleholder Israel Adesanya, Blachowicz faced his first challenge from the 205-pound roster in the form of 42-year-old light heavyweight mainstay Teixeira. Joining Randy Couture in the post-40 champions’ club, the Brazilian submitted Blachowicz in the second round in Abu Dhabi.

    It Wasn’t Blachowicz’s Night

    Given his run since a 2019 defeat to Thiago Santos, Blachowicz’s performance came as a surprise. Dominated in all realms, the Polish powerhouse was outclassed on the night. Now, in an interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour, the former champ has discussed what went wrong on Fight Island.

    In simple terms, Blachowicz admitted that nothing went right on October 30. Despite that, he won’t wallow in self-pity and believes he has what it takes to bounce back in 2022.

    “Everything goes wrong, you know. I shouldn’t fight that night. But what can I do? I can just, you know, (go) back to the training, back to the gym, train harder, and try to get that belt back, you know. And that’s it. I’m not gonna be sad, I’m not gonna be thinking about the fight because I don’t want to worsen my life about something like this. I think about the fight, why it goes wrong, but I don’t waste time to be sad. I will not hide under the bed and cry.”

    Despite not going into detail on why he doesn’t think he should have fought, Blachowicz did suggest it was bad enough day for him that he’d have fallen to defeat against anybody.

    “I wasn’t hurt, that was just bad day for me. I will, I think, I will lose with anybody that night, you know. I don’t want to explain myself. It wasn’t my night, that’s it. But sometimes I need something like this. Sometimes I think that I need to lose the fight; I need to do one step back to do two forward, you know. When you look to my career, always be like this. So I believe this time I learned something from this fight and I’m gonna be a better fighter. Same like Thiago Santos and different opponents who beat me.”

    It appears Blachowicz won’t have to wait long for his chance to rebound. Having suggested he’d be open to facing Aleksandar Rakić in March, Ariel Helwani recently reported that the bout is being targeted for the March 26 event.

    With the Austrian ranked at #3, it stands to reason a victory over the former champ will book his place opposite the winner of the likely next title fight between Teixeira and Jiƙí ProchĂĄzka in late 2022. Blachowicz will be looking to spoil those plans for “Rocket” by securing his chance for redemption.

    Do you think Jan Blachowicz can regain the light heavyweight title?

  • Dariush Won’t Be Happy If McGregor Jumps The Queue For A Title Shot

    UFC lightweight contender Beneil Dariush has admitted he harbors some concern over the possibility of former two-division champion Conor McGregor jumping him in the queue for a title shot.

    Given his hard-fought rise up the 155-pound ladder, it’s understandable Dariush wouldn’t be best pleased if the #9-ranked lightweight was granted a championship fight after back-to-back defeats in the division. While McGregor has been through large spells of inactivity, Dariush has been grinding inside the Octagon.

    Since 2016, McGregor has had his hand raised once with a victory over Donald Cerrone at welterweight. In the same period, Dariush has built his entire active seven-fight winning streak. Victories over the likes of Thiago Moisés, Drew Dober, Drakkar Klose, Diego Ferreira, and Tony Ferguson have seen the Iranian-born American climb to the #3 spot in the rankings.

    Now inches away from a title shot, Dariush will be looking to secure his place opposite the champion in 2022 when he meets surging Dagestani contender Islam Makhachev. The pair are expected to clash in the main event of a UFC Fight Night on February 26.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CWyQIc0twjW/

    Dariush Will Call Dana White Personally If McGregor Gets A Title Shot

    Despite his much-superior ranking, better form, and abundance of wins, Dariush isn’t as sure of his advantage over McGregor as he should be. That, perhaps, wasn’t helped by the former double champ’s recent claim that he’ll be fighting whoever sits on the lightweight throne when he returns.

    During a recent interview with ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto, Dariush admitted he remains concerned about the Irishman skipping the queue in order to face arch-rival Dustin Poirier for the fourth time. That, of course, also depends on “The Diamond” successfully dethroning Charles Oliveira at UFC 269 next weekend.

    Dariush said that if he finds himself below McGregor the pecking order, even with a headlining win against Makhachev, he’ll be upset at the promotion for the first time ever, and claimed he’d be having stern words with UFC President Dana White.

    “Yes, it’s definitely a concern. Because you know, I always make a joke about this but it’s true; Conor can make a highlight video of him training hard and (people will be) like, ‘Alright guys, title shot. Give the man a title shot. Look what he is doing. Look at the way he is hitting the bag or look at the way he’s, you know, pushing himself in the wheelchair.’ I don’t know man, he can do whatever he wants and he will get a title shot.

    “It could happen but if it does happen, it’ll be the first time I’m upset with the UFC. And I’m gonna call Dana [White] personally and be like, ‘Listen buddy, you’re gonna triple my paycheck if we’re gonna do it this way. Because if you’re going to insult me this way, at least you’re gonna show me respect with your pocketbook.’”

    Conor McGregor
    Joe Rogan, Conor McGregor. Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC

    McGregor’s quest to regain the lightweight belt, which he won back in 2016 with a memorable victory over Eddie Alvarez inside Madison Square Garden, was firmly derailed this year.

    While a knockout loss in January did damage to his pursuit of gold, a defeat at UFC 264 further affected his title aspirations, but also did some significant physical damage. After a gruesome broken leg, the Irishman has been on the sidelines ever since, and is expected to be out until deep into 2022.

    How would you react if Conor McGregor was granted an immediate title shot upon his return from injury?

  • Khabib Reveals Incentive UFC Have Offered Makhachev For Dariush Fight

    If Khabib Nurmagomedov is to be believed, February 26 could prove to be a very lucrative date for surging Dagestani Islam Makhachev.

    Since a 2015 defeat to Adriano Martins, Makhachev has looked unstoppable. In nine straight wins, the 30-year-old has added the likes of Nik Lentz, Gleison Tibau, Arman Tsarukyan, Davi Ramos, and Drew Dober to his résumé. With triumphs number eight and nine, Makhachev turned it up a notch.

    In his first UFC main event, the American Kickboxing Academy product submitted Thiago Moisés with a fourth-round rear-naked choke. Having entered the lightweight top five, Makhachev had been set for a grudge match against rival Rafael dos Anjos at UFC 267. After the Brazilian withdrew, he faced perennial contender Dan Hooker. With a brutal first-round kimura, Makhachev secured his third submission win of 2021.

    Now inches away from a title shot, Makhachev will look to secure his place opposite the champion in 2022. He looks set to have the chance to do so in a UFC Fight Night main event against #3-ranked contender Beneil Dariush.

    It Could Be A Lucrative Night For Makhachev

    Like Makhachev, Dariush has also built an impressive winning streak in recent years. Since losses to Edson Barboza and Alexander Hernandez, the 32-year-old has defeated the likes of Dober, Moisés, Drakkar Klose, and Carlos Diego Ferreira. Dariush secured his place in the top five and in title contention with a dominant co-main event display against Tony Ferguson at UFC 262.

    Despite facing an in-form opponent with grappling credentials that could perhaps match his own, don’t be surprised if Makhachev pushes for a finish. That’s because, according to the Dagestani’s compatriot, friend, and teammate Khabib Nurmagomedov, the UFC has offered the #4-ranked contender a “double bonus” if he puts Dariush away inside the distance.

    “And Beneil and Islam, this is truly and 100% number-one contender fight. Who’s gonna win, they gonna fight for the title. And UFC told Islam (this),” Khabib told ESPN MMA. ” And you know what’s interesting? If Islam finish him, they gonna give him double bonus. And you know, it’s very interesting,” the former UFC champion said with a smirk. “This is just private news. I just want to share it with you and friends because it’s very interesting. And UFC really, really want this fight.”

    So a guaranteed title fight and a double bonus? Dana White is certainly playing the role of Santa for the Makhachev camp this Christmas.

    While “The Eagle” added that he’s not certain if Dariush has been offered the same, it’s hard to imagine this being a one-sided offer. Although if the promotion is as high on Makhachev as many believe, perhaps these are the lengths they’re willing to go to push a favored fighter..

    What do you make of the UFC’s offer of a double bonus to Islam Makhachev if he finishes Beneil Dariush?

  • Aldo Targets Dillashaw Clash On Sterling/Yan 2 Undercard In 2022

    With a victory over Rob Font at UFC Vegas 44 this weekend, José Aldo will be targeting a title eliminator against TJ Dillashaw in 2022.

    After falling short of the vacant bantamweight gold against Petr Yan last July, not many would have expected Aldo to mount another title run. At the time, the Brazilian was 3-5 since his first UFC defeat versus Conor McGregor, with setbacks against Max Holloway, Alexander Volkanovski, and a controversial decision loss to Marlon Moraes in his 135-pound debut.

    But since a brutal TKO at UFC 251, Aldo has won back-to-back contests and established himself back into title contention. A unanimous decision triumph over Marlon Vera last December put him in the bantamweight win column for the first time, before a similar result against perennial contender Pedro Munhoz in August this year cemented his place in the top five.

    “Junior” will look to climb closer to the top step when he collides with Font in this Saturday’s main event.

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

    Aldo Aims To Use Font & Dillashaw To Get Back To The Title

    Despite certainly having his hands full with Font, who’s regarded as one of the top strikers in the division and has won his last four Octagon outings, Aldo still has one eye on the future. And should he emerge victorious inside the Apex, the veteran has his sights set on one top contender.

    During an appearance on MMA Fighting’s Portuguese-language podcast Trocação Franca, the former UFC Featherweight Champion acknowledged that a clash with TJ Dillashaw could happen in 2022 if he can extend his winning streak to three on December 4. In a perfect world, Aldo says it would go down on the same card as the unification bout between Aljamain Sterling and interim titleholder Petr Yan.

    “It might happen. The fact Sterling is injured and we don’t know when he’s coming back, that (Dillashaw fight) could indeed happen in the future. Dillashaw and I, I don’t know if right now or in the near future, we want this fight. It’s a great fight for both of us, the UFC and the fans, so we’d all agree. I don’t know if it could be on the same card (as Sterling vs. Yan 2). If it is, I’ll be ready. My history is rich, so is his, and we need to make this fight.” (h/t MMA Mania)

    Nevertheless, Aldo knows he can’t take Font lightly. This weekend will mark the 34-year-old’s second UFC main event of the year. In the UFC Vegas 27 headliner, Font outpointed former champ Cody Garbrandt across five rounds.

    Prior to that, the Massachusetts native recorded victories over Sergio Pettis, Ricky Simon, and “Magic” Moraes. He’ll be looking to spoil Aldo’s plans and book a title eliminator for himself on Saturday.

    Would you like to see the winner of José Aldo vs. Rob Font face TJ Dillashaw next year?

  • Beneil Dariush: The UFC Offered Me Makhachev Matchup For UFC 267

    UFC lightweight contender Beneil Dariush has revealed that the UFC had hoped to book his matchup with Islam Makhachev for this year.

    Dariush’s rise towards the top of the 155-pound ladder has certainly been memorable. Since losses to Edson Barboza and Alexander Hernandez, the 32-year-old has built a seven-fight winning streak, which includes submission wins against Drew Dober and Frank Camacho, highlight-reel knockouts of Drakkar Klose and Scott Holtzman, and a display of total dominance against former interim champion Tony Ferguson.

    Now ranked #3 in the division and seemingly just one step from a meeting in the Octagon with the champion, Dariush will look to secure his first title shot when he faces Makhachev. The pair are set to collide in the main event of a UFC Fight Night on February 26.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/CWyQIc0twjW/

    A Fight Months In The Making

    Despite the booking being targeted for the second month of 2022, Dariush has revealed that the promotion’s original plan was for the two top-five contenders to meet in Abu Dhabi at UFC 267.

    During an appearance on DC & RC, the Iranian-born American told Daniel Cormier that he was unable to make the Abu-Dhabi-held event due to the birth of his child. While he’d initially hoped to push the matchup back to December, the UFC were keen to have Makhachev appear on Fight Island.

    “Man, I’m stoked. Big respect to Islam and Khabib and that team, they’re one of the best teams right now in the game. It was kinda hard getting this matchup because obviously, our manager (Ali Abdelaziz) was like, ‘You guys are the best in the division, I want you guys fighting for the title,’ and also, the timing for the last fight, for Islam, he needed to do Abu Dhabi, and I just had a baby, so I couldn’t do Abu Dhabi. I told them I could do December, and they said no, he had to be there. So it was a little bit tricky, but I’m stoked for this fight man. Islam is so good. He’s one of the best guys, if not the best.”

    When questioned on the failed plans, Dariush revealed that UFC President Dana White had proposed the fight with Makhachev after the surging Dagestani submitted Thiago Moisés in the main event of UFC Vegas 31 in July.

    “Remember when Islam fought Thiago MoisĂ©s? Dana said, ‘Hey, I want him to fight Dariush.’ And I was like, ‘Man, if we could do December, that makes perfect sense for me. Let’s go.’ And I found out that Islam had to do October 30 for Abu Dhabi because he has such a big fanbase and they love him over there and they had to have him over there, which I was like, ‘Alright, I understand but like, I just had a baby, I have no clue what I’m doing.’”

    In the end, Makhachev faced Dan Hooker at UFC 267 after original opponent Rafael dos Anjos withdrew through injury. With a brutal first-round kimura, the 30-yar-old burst into title contention and eventually set up a clash with the equally in-form Dariush.

    How do you think the fight between Beneil Dariush and Islam Makhachev will play out?