MMA News

Author: Pranav Pandey

  • UFC Legends Junior dos Santos And Fabricio Werdum Running It Back Again In Trilogy Clash on August 8

    Two former UFC heavyweight champions are set to run it back once again as Junior dos Santos and Fabricio Werdum prepare to collide for a third time at Kings Championship on Aug. 8 in Florianopolis, Brazil.

    This time, however, the rivalry is heading to the grappling mats instead of the cage.

    The upcoming bout marks another chapter in a feud that stretches back nearly two decades. Their first meeting came in 2008 when a relatively unknown dos Santos shocked the MMA world by flattening Werdum in just over a minute.

    Years later, the Brazilian heavyweights met again under bare-knuckle MMA rules in Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred promotion, where “Cigano” earned a hard-fought decision victory to move to 2-0 in the series.

    While dos Santos has historically had the upper hand in fights, the switch to pure grappling could significantly favor Werdum.

    Widely regarded as one of the most accomplished heavyweight grapplers in MMA history, Werdum owns elite credentials in Brazilian jiu-jitsu, including world titles at ADCC and IBJJF. The former UFC champion famously submitted Cain Velasquez to capture heavyweight gold in 2015.

    Dos Santos, meanwhile, has remained the more active competitor in recent years. Following the 2023 rematch with Werdum, he picked up a knockout win over Alan Belcher before suffering a quick stoppage loss to Robelis Despaigne at MVP MMA earlier this year.

  • Joe Rogan Stresses UFC White House Event Could Be A Disaster Due To Uncontrolled Conditions – ‘I Don’t Like The Idea’

    Joe Rogan Stresses UFC White House Event Could Be A Disaster Due To Uncontrolled Conditions – ‘I Don’t Like The Idea’

    Joe Rogan may be set to call the action at UFC Freedom 250, but the longtime commentator still has major doubts about the promotion’s ambitious White House event.

    During a recent episode of his podcast, Rogan questioned whether hosting championship fights outdoors on the South Lawn is the right move, especially with unpredictable weather conditions expected in Washington, D.C., in mid-June.

    “I don’t like the idea of fighting outside at all,” Rogan said. “The White House thing is odd.”

    One of his biggest concerns is the potential heat. The renowned podcaster noted that temperatures around the same date last year reportedly climbed close to 100 degrees, raising concerns about how fighters will perform under extreme conditions.

    “That’s hot as f–k,” Rogan said while discussing the outdoor setup.

    Rogan also pointed to another issue that could impact the event once the giant lighting structures are switched on.

    “And then the lights… bugs,” he said. “What are you gonna do? How are you gonna stop the bugs?”

    According to Rogan, world title fights should take place inside a fully controlled arena rather than in an open-air environment where heat, humidity, wind, or insects could potentially affect the outcome.

    “I just don’t think you should compete in a world championship fight in a non-controlled environment,” Rogan explained. “It should be inside an air-conditioned arena.”

    Despite his criticism, Rogan is still expected to work the historic card on June 14, which will feature a lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje, along with an interim heavyweight title clash between Ciryl Gane and Alex Pereira.

    Construction for the event officially began this week on the White House South Lawn.

  • Conor McGregor Return Sends UFC 329 Ticket Prices Through The Roof Amid Near Sellout

    Conor McGregor Return Sends UFC 329 Ticket Prices Through The Roof Amid Near Sellout

    Conor McGregor’s long-awaited UFC return is already proving to be one of the biggest events in MMA history — and fans hoping to attend UFC 329 in Las Vegas may need deep pockets to witness it live.

    With “The Notorious” set to face former featherweight champion Max Holloway in a rematch on July 11 at T-Mobile Arena, early presale ticket prices for UFC Fight Club members have reportedly surfaced online, and the numbers are staggering even by McGregor standards.

    According to listings circulating on social media, front-row seats are priced above $43,000, while floor tickets are reportedly starting at over $4,000. Lower bowl seats are listed above $1,200, with even upper-level tickets crossing the $600 mark before public sales officially begin.

    Shortly after those prices surfaced, ticketing platform AXS also appeared to show the event as sold out during the early presale window, highlighting the enormous demand surrounding the former two-division champion’s comeback.

    While the prices are eye-catching, they are hardly unexpected for a McGregor comeback fight. UFC 329 marks the Irish superstar’s first appearance inside the Octagon in five years and serves as the centerpiece of International Fight Week in Las Vegas.

    The event is expected to bring a massive fight-week atmosphere back to the city, with additional attractions planned throughout the weekend, including the UFC Hall of Fame ceremony, ceremonial weigh-ins, fan events, and other combat sports showcases connected to the promotion.

    McGregor has not competed since suffering a broken leg against Dustin Poirier in 2021, while Holloway enters the rematch looking to avenge his loss to “The Notorious” from their first meeting more than a decade ago.

    Even for fans unable to secure tickets inside the arena, UFC 329 is shaping up to be one of the promotion’s most heavily watched cards in years, fueled by McGregor’s return, the Holloway rivalry, and the spectacle surrounding International Fight Week.

    Public ticket sales are expected to open later this week, though demand is already appearing sky-high well before general access becomes available.

  • Boxing Star Gervonta Davis Wanted By Police In Maryland After Judge Issues Arrest Warrant

    Gervonta Davis is reportedly facing yet another major legal setback after a judge in Maryland issued an active arrest warrant tied to an alleged probation violation.

    According to multiple reports, the warrant stems from Davis’ ongoing probation connected to his 2020 hit-and-run case in Baltimore, an incident that injured several people. The undefeated boxing star had previously pleaded guilty to multiple traffic-related offenses and remained under court supervision.

    The latest development reportedly centers around allegations involving an October 2025 altercation at a Miami nightclub involving Davis’ ex-girlfriend, Courtney Rossel. Authorities claim the incident may have violated the terms of his probation.

    Per reports, Rossel accused “Tank” of physically grabbing her and attempting to take her phone during a confrontation at Tootsie’s Cabaret in Miami, where she worked as a VIP cocktail server. Surveillance footage from the club was also reportedly reviewed by investigators as part of the case.

    Davis was arrested in Florida earlier this year on charges including battery and attempted kidnapping. While one charge tied to false imprisonment was eventually dropped, other charges remain active.

    Court records indicate a Maryland judge initially issued a warrant in February, then recalled it after Davis’ legal team argued he was cooperating with authorities. However, a second warrant issued in April has reportedly remained active after another motion to dismiss it was denied in May.

    The legal cloud now creates further uncertainty around Davis’ boxing future. The WBA lightweight champion has not fought since his controversial majority draw against Lamont Roach Jr. in March 2025, while a planned crossover fight with Jake Paul was scrapped following the civil lawsuit filed by Rossel.

    Despite the mounting legal issues, “Tank” remains one of boxing’s biggest stars with a professional record of 30-0-1 and 28 knockouts. However, the active warrant now threatens to further sideline one of the sport’s most recognizable names.

  • Dana White Defends Low UFC Fighter Pay Amid WNBA Comparisons – ‘Should I Pay You $370K?’

    Dana White is once again defending the UFC’s fighter pay structure amid growing criticism surrounding how little many newcomers earn despite the promotion’s massive financial success.

    The debate intensified after reports surfaced that the UFC’s new media rights agreement with Paramount could be worth roughly $7.7 billion over several years. At the same time, entry-level fighters signed through Dana White’s Contender Series are still believed to start on contracts around $10,000 to show and $10,000 to win.

    Speaking to Rolling Stone, White argued that critics often ignore one key factor when discussing those numbers: many fighters entering the UFC are still unproven.

    “When people talk about fighter pay, you know what they don’t compare it to?” White said. “What a guy makes when he goes into his boxing debut.”

    White pushed back strongly against the idea that every new UFC signing should immediately receive major contracts before proving they belong on the roster.

    “If you come into the UFC, let’s say you sign a three-fight deal,” White explained. “We’re gonna find out if you even belong in the UFC. So, I should pay you $370K to see if you belong in the UFC?”

    The UFC boss also emphasized how dramatically fighter compensation has evolved since the Fertitta era began in 2001, noting that many athletes previously needed second jobs just to survive while competing.

    “When we first bought this, most of these guys had jobs where they would train on the side and fight in the UFC,” White said. “Now it is at a level where everyone is a professional athlete.”

    White further insisted that fighter pay has consistently risen alongside the company’s growth.

    “Since 2001, the pay has gone like this,” he said while motioning upward. “If you look at the deal we just cut with Paramount, imagine how it’s going to look over the next seven years.”

    Still, criticism surrounding UFC pay remains one of the sport’s hottest talking points, especially as the organization continues generating record-breaking revenue while lower-tier fighters reportedly take home only a fraction of their contracts after expenses, taxes, and coaching fees are deducted.

  • Ilia Topuria Claims UFC Is Avoiding Islam Makhachev Mega Fight On Purpose

    Ilia Topuria Claims UFC Is Avoiding Islam Makhachev Mega Fight On Purpose

    Ilia Topuria believes the long-discussed super fight with Islam Makhachev isn’t falling apart because of either fighter. In his eyes, the UFC simply doesn’t want to make it happen right now.

    Speaking during an appearance on DeepCut with VicBlends, Topuria addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding a potential showdown with the former lightweight king after months of public back-and-forth between both camps.

    “I don’t think that it’s because of him that the fight is not happening,” Topuria said. “I truly believe that the UFC doesn’t want to make it happen.”

    The undefeated Spaniard had been heavily linked to a blockbuster clash with Makhachev for the UFC White House card on June 14. Instead, Topuria is now set to defend lightweight gold against Justin Gaethje in the event’s headliner, while Makhachev is expected to move forward with a welterweight title defense later this summer.

    Despite the disappointment surrounding the matchup not materializing, Topuria made it clear he holds no resentment toward Makhachev personally.

    “I don’t hate him. I don’t have anything personal with him,” Topuria explained. “He achieved great things in the sport. He’s a double champion like me.”

    At the same time, Topuria acknowledged just how massive the fight could become if it eventually happens.

    “If you do that crossover, me and Islam, it will be one of the biggest fights in UFC history without any doubt,” he said.

    Still, the reigning lightweight champion insisted his legacy won’t depend on sharing the Octagon with Makhachev.

    “For me personally, it wouldn’t change anything if that fight doesn’t happen,” Topuria said. “I will be happy and proud about myself anyways. I don’t need Islam to feel realized or proud about myself.”

  • UFC Legends Glover Teixeira And Shogun Rua Set For Long-Awaited Clash In Brazil On August 29

    Two legendary Brazilian MMA veterans are finally set to share the ring after more than a decade of near misses.

    Glover Teixeira and Mauricio Rua, better known to fight fans as “Shogun,” are scheduled to headline Spaten Fight Night 3 in São Paulo, Brazil, on August 29 in a heavyweight boxing match contested over eight two-minute rounds.

    The matchup is especially notable because the former UFC light heavyweight champions were once expected to fight inside the Octagon back in 2012, though the bout never materialized. Now, years after both men stepped away from MMA competition, they’ll finally collide under boxing rules instead.

    Teixeira enters the event after remaining deeply involved in the sport following his retirement in 2023. While his final UFC appearance ended in a title fight loss to Jamahal Hill, the 46-year-old has stayed active as the longtime coach and mentor of Alex Pereira, who is currently preparing for an interim heavyweight title fight against Ciryl Gane at the UFC White House event.

    Shogun, meanwhile, remains one of the most respected names of the PRIDE era. The 44-year-old built his legacy through violent finishes and memorable wars against names like Quinton Jackson, Alistair Overeem, and Antonio Rogerio Nogueira before eventually becoming UFC light heavyweight champion.

    Spaten Fight Night has quickly become known for bringing iconic MMA names into crossover combat events. Previous editions featured exhibition-style bouts involving Anderson Silva, Chael Sonnen, and Wanderlei Silva.

    The upcoming card will also include high-level judo matches featuring Olympic gold medalists Rafaela Silva and Beatriz Souza, adding another layer to the Brazil-based combat sports showcase.

  • Young MMA Fighter’s UFC Dream Ends In Tragic Bear Attack In Canada

    A tragic story out of northern Saskatchewan has revealed the heartbreaking final chapter of a young man chasing a dream of fighting in the UFC.

    Hrishikesh Koloth, a 27-year-old originally from Kerala, India, was killed in a rare bear attack on May 8 while working at a uranium exploration site near Nordbye Lake.

    According to his family, Koloth had spent years training in mixed martial arts and moved to Canada to pursue a professional fighting career.

    Speaking in an interview with CBC News after the tragedy, his brother Arjun described Hrishikesh as someone completely devoted to combat sports.

    “That was his dream. That’s why he came here,” Arjun said. “He wanted to fight in the UFC.”

    Koloth had reportedly trained for more than a decade and worked with Skoden Martial Arts in Penticton, British Columbia. His brother said he was also preparing to begin a new job as a boxing coach in Vancouver next month.

    Authorities confirmed the bear was later shot and killed at the scene. The incident marks only the fourth recorded fatal bear attack in Saskatchewan history.

  • Misfits Boxing Star DeenTheGreat Arrested In Miami On Felony Attempted Robbery Charge

    DeenTheGreat reportedly spent part of Wednesday in police custody after being arrested in Miami-Dade County on a felony charge tied to an alleged altercation involving a woman’s cellphone.

    According to TMZ, the influencer boxer and streamer, whose real name is Nurideen Shabazz, was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami on a charge listed as “robbery/strongarm/attempt.” Jail records reportedly showed that a bond had not yet been set at the time details of the arrest surfaced.

    Per the police report cited by TMZ, the incident allegedly began aboard a yacht involving a woman identified as Destiny Aleman. She claimed Shabazz became upset after other men attempted to speak with her despite allegedly warning her not to entertain anyone else during the outing.

    The situation reportedly escalated once Aleman exited the yacht. She told police that Shabazz grabbed her forearm and attempted to take her phone while she was recording, allegedly causing a minor scratch in the process.

    Authorities also reportedly reviewed surveillance footage provided voluntarily by the yacht owner. According to police, the footage appeared to show Shabazz yelling for someone to take the woman’s phone and stop her from recording before allegedly trying multiple times to grab the device as she attempted to pull away.

    TMZ further reported that the footage allegedly showed Aleman curling up on the ground while trying to protect the phone before eventually getting free.

    The arrest comes as Shabazz continues building his presence in both livestream culture and influencer boxing. Known online for viral streams, internet feuds, and crossover boxing appearances, DeenTheGreat has competed seven times under the Misfits Boxing banner, compiling a 6-1 record. His most recent fight came at Misfits Mania in December 2025, where he suffered a unanimous decision loss to Amado Vargas.

    Just hours before news of the arrest surfaced, Shabazz had been livestreaming alongside Tekashi 6ix9ine and others.

  • Dana White Admits Relationship With Anderson Silva Completely Fell Apart After UFC Exit- ‘I Said It’s Over’

    Dana White has opened up about his fractured relationship with UFC legend Anderson Silva, revealing that the former middleweight champion still refuses to speak to him years after leaving the promotion.

    Speaking in a recent interview with Rolling Stone ahead of UFC Freedom 250, White reflected on the difficult reality of telling aging fighters that their time in the UFC has come to an end. Silva, according to the UFC CEO, took that conversation especially hard.

    “Anderson Silva… that guy won’t talk to me to this day because I said it’s over, and he was in his 40s,” White said. “His thing was, ‘Who are you to tell me that I’m done doing what I love to do?’”

    Silva’s UFC exit in 2020 came after a rough stretch late in his career. Although White exaggerated the losing streak in his comments, Silva had struggled in the latter stages of his Octagon run and ultimately departed following a TKO loss to Uriah Hall.

    Despite that decline, “The Spider” has remained active in combat sports since leaving the UFC. The Brazilian icon transitioned into professional boxing and picked up notable wins over Tito Ortiz, Tyron Woodley, and Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., while also sharing the ring with Jake Paul.

    The UFC head honcho acknowledged that fighters often struggle to recognize when their prime has passed, especially after spending years performing in front of massive crowds and competing at the highest level.

    “You just never know it’s over until you actually get in there, and you can’t pull the trigger the way you used to,” White explained.

    The tension between the two has quietly lingered for years. Silva notably skipped his UFC Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 2023, as well as the following year’s ceremony honoring his legendary fight against Chael Sonnen.

    Even so, White made it clear that his stance was never about preventing “The Spider” from fighting altogether.

    “He can still fight, you just can’t do it here,” White said.

    For many fans, Silva remains one of the greatest fighters in MMA history. But according to White, their relationship may never fully recover from the moment the UFC decided “The Spider’s” run inside the Octagon had reached its end.

  • Ray J Hospitalized Following Brutal Brand Risk 14 KO Against Supa Hot Fire

    Ray J has reportedly been hospitalized in Las Vegas following his viral knockout loss at Adin Ross’ Brand Risk 14 event over the weekend.

    According to TMZ, the R&B star checked himself into a hospital just hours after his amateur MMA bout against internet personality Supa Hot Fire, whose real name is DeWayne DeShawn Stevenson. Sources close to Ray J told the outlet that he has remained under medical supervision for multiple days while doctors continue evaluating his condition.

    The report claims medical staff are investigating a possible concussion stemming from the knockout, while also monitoring concerns related to his heart rate allegedly slowing down after the fight.

    The frightening update comes after the 45-year-old appeared visibly disoriented during the second-round stoppage loss at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas last weekend. Supa Hot Fire landed a heavy right hand that sent Ray J stumbling into the ropes before collapsing to the canvas in a sequence that quickly spread across social media.

    The aftermath of the fight drew even more attention when Ray J made bizarre comments during his post-fight interview, appearing to suggest there had been some sort of pre-fight understanding between the two competitors.

    “Yo, I thought we had a plan,” Ray J said after the bout, fueling online speculation surrounding the fight.

    The hospitalization also raises further concern because Ray J has publicly discussed ongoing health issues throughout the year. Earlier in 2026, he revealed he had been dealing with pneumonia, heart-related complications, and other medical concerns serious enough to require hospitalization and extended bed rest.

    Despite those issues, Ray J still stepped into the cage for the chaotic influencer event promoted by Adin Ross, which featured a mix of celebrity fights and viral personalities.

  • Chris Weidman Stunned By UFC Hall Of Fame Honor After Career Highs And Lows – ‘I Was Completely Clueless’

    Chris Weidman never saw this moment coming.

    The former UFC middleweight champion is set to be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026, but the announcement caught him completely off guard.

    Known for one of the biggest upsets in MMA history when he dethroned Anderson Silva in 2013, Weidman’s legacy has long been debated due to the contrasting chapters of his career.

    That’s part of why the honor came as such a surprise.

    “It’s a huge honor – I was completely caught off guard with it,” Weidman said in an interview with MMA Junkie Radio. “Was not expecting it… I was completely clueless and it was an awesome surprise.”

    The reveal was orchestrated during UFC 328 in Newark, where “The All-American” was brought cageside under the pretense of a routine broadcast segment. Instead, he was met with a tribute video announcing his induction.

    Weidman’s early career run remains one of the most impressive in middleweight history. He began with 13 straight victories, including two wins over Silva, and successful title defenses against elite contenders like Vitor Belfort and Lyoto Machida.

    However, the latter part of his career told a different story. A series of losses after his championship reign left Weidman unsure if his accomplishments would ultimately be enough for Hall of Fame recognition.

    “After I had my first loss, I lost a lot,” he admitted. “Thank God they measure you from your prime… I’m glad I did some great things while I was young.”

    “The All-American” now joins a stacked 2026 class that includes Demetrious Johnson and Dominick Cruz, further cementing his place in UFC history.

  • Justin Gaethje Claims UFC Tried To Push Him Out Before White House Showdown

    Justin Gaethje has built a reputation on chaos inside the cage, but heading into the biggest fight of his career, his mindset is rooted in something much simpler — survival at the top.

    Set to face Ilia Topuria in a lightweight title unification bout at the UFC’s historic White House event on June 14, Gaethje knows exactly what’s at stake. Despite multiple runs with interim gold and years spent among the elite, undisputed championship status has remained just out of reach.

    Speaking to Grind City Media, “The Highlight” reflected on how he’s managed to stay in the title picture for so long, even as a new generation continues to rise.

    “Honestly, I just stayed the course and I win when I need to win,” Gaethje said. “I’ve only lost to past champions or in championship fights… then I come back, I get back to work.”

    The road hasn’t been easy. Gaethje believes the UFC has consistently matched him against dangerous, hungry contenders looking to take his spot.

    “They’ve tried to get rid of me… I’ve held off these young up-and-comers… these guys are so hungry,” he said, referencing names like Paddy Pimblett and Rafael Fiziev.

    Rather than shy away from that pressure, “The Highlight” has embraced it. In fact, he claims setbacks have only made him more dangerous.

    “Coming off losses, I’m much more dangerous than I am coming off wins,” he explained, pointing to his knockout defeat to Max Holloway as a constant motivator in training.

    Now 32 fights into his career, the interim UFC lightweight champion has also started thinking about the endgame. But his criteria for walking away is clear.

    “When I think my younger self would beat myself now, then it would be time to call it quits,” he said.

    For now, though, retirement is the last thing on his mind. Standing across from an undefeated champion in Topuria, Gaethje is preparing for yet another test against a fighter many see as the future of the division.

    “I’m fighting a guy that is absolutely incredible… but I have a great coach, we’re going to have a great plan, and I’m going to change his face just like I always do,” he said.

  • Rico Verhoeven Breaks Silence On Final Sequence Against Oleksandr Usyk, Admits Confusion Over Controversial Stoppage

    Rico Verhoeven has now offered one of his most detailed accounts yet of the chaotic final moments in his fight against Oleksandr Usyk, and from his perspective, the ending felt anything but clear.

    Speaking during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, Verhoeven walked through the sequence that led to the controversial Round 11 stoppage, starting with the uppercut that put him on the canvas.

    “I got hit with the uppercut. People who know my fights know I’ve been dropped multiple times… No matter how much time is left on the clock, I get back up, and I end up winning,” Verhoeven explained.

    Despite the knockdown, the Dutch star said his mindset never wavered. Once back on his feet, he believed survival, not recovery, was the immediate goal.

    “That was the mindset… I got back up, they put the mouthpiece back in, and I heard there were only 10 seconds left. So I thought, ‘Oh, okay, that’s good.’”

    With the round nearly over, Verhoeven expected a final push from “The Cat” and planned accordingly.

    “Let me keep my hands up and get to the 12th round. I knew he was going to come straight at me, so I thought, ‘Pop, pop, keep my hands up and wait until the bell goes.’”

    But what followed is where confusion set in.

    “And then it was just like, when is the bell gonna go? Those 10 seconds were taking a long time,” he said. “Then he jumped in, and I was like, ‘Ok, f—, the round is over.’”

    Instead of hearing the bell, “King of Kickboxing” was met with the referee stepping in to stop the fight, a moment that caught him completely off guard.

    “He’s like, ‘No, it’s over.’ I was like, ‘What the heck is going on here?’”

  • UFC Boss Dana White Lands TIME Cover Ahead Of Historic White House Event

    Dana White has added another milestone to his long list of achievements, landing on the cover of TIME as the UFC prepares for one of its most ambitious events yet.

    The feature arrives just weeks before the promotion stages its historic card on the White House grounds on June 14, a moment that reflects how far the organization has come under White’s leadership.

    The magazine piece focuses on the UFC’s journey from a fringe spectacle to a mainstream powerhouse, while also highlighting White’s longstanding connection with former U.S. President Donald Trump.

    While much of the story revisits familiar ground for longtime fans, it underscores the significance of the upcoming event in Washington, D.C., which will mark the first time the UFC hosts a fight card at such a high-profile location.

    The card itself is expected to feature a lightweight title unification bout between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje in the main event. In the co-main, Alex Pereira is set to move up in weight to face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title.

    The TIME cover serves as another sign of the UFC’s growing cultural footprint, with the promotion now preparing to deliver one of the most unique events in combat sports history.

  • Drake Set To Enter Influencer Fight Business With Part Ownership Of Adin Ross’ Brand Risk Promotions

    Drake could be the next big name stepping into the influencer fight game.

    Following the buzz around Adin Ross’ latest Brand Risk event in Las Vegas, the popular streamer has revealed that Drake is in talks to become an owner of his rapidly growing fight promotion. The development came shortly after the chaotic Brand Risk 14 show at the UFC Apex, which drew massive online attention despite mixed reactions to the fights themselves.

    Speaking during a livestream after the event, \Ross claimed the deal is already in motion.

    “I can’t believe we did it, it’s really going to go down and be legendary. The clips are going everywhere, everyone’s happy with the event,” Ross said on his stream.

    “So I talked to Drake about it, bro. Drake is now an owner of Brand Risk. I’m finalizing that s— today. Like, the thing with this s— is that it’s going to keep getting better… we’re going to keep finding ways to reach new limits.”

    The potential partnership comes after Ross made a significant financial push to elevate his promotion, reportedly spending around $1.5 million to take Brand Risk from its usual Miami warehouse setup to the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.

    The event featured a mix of influencer bouts and amateur fights, along with appearances from UFC executives like Dana White and Hunter Campbell, who even joined the broadcast.

    While the fight card itself sparked plenty of debate online, it undeniably generated attention, with viral clips spreading across social media and viewership peaking in the hundreds of thousands.

    Drake’s interest in the event also ties back to his close relationship with Johnny Manziel, who headlined the card. But if Ross’ claims hold true, the rapper’s involvement could go far beyond casual support and into a serious business venture.

  • Wang Cong Rips UFC Champ Valentina Shevchenko For Skipping Q&A Appearance With Her

    Wang Cong has reignited her rivalry with Valentina Shevchenko — and this time, it’s happening outside the cage.

    The Chinese contender took to social media ahead of UFC Macau, claiming the reigning flyweight champion pulled out of a planned joint fan Q&A appearance to avoid sharing the stage with her. The two were expected to appear together during fight week festivities, but according to Cong, those plans changed at the last minute.

    “Valentina and I were originally scheduled to appear together at the UFC Macau fan Q&A,” Cong wrote on Instagram. “However, she submitted a request to UFC to opt out of the joint appearance, refusing to share the stage with me.”

    “The Joker” didn’t stop there, launching into a sharp critique of Shevchenko’s character and fighting style while referencing their past encounter.

    “As my defeated opponent, it’s clear she’s afraid I’ll expose the truth behind her lies,” Cong added. “She’s a sore loser with no class—nothing more than a compulsive liar who can’t handle defeat.”

    “Oh, and one more thing. I call her ‘Box Office Poison,’ because boring fights are exactly what she’s good at.”

    The tension between the two dates back to 2015, when Cong defeated “Bullet” by decision in a kickboxing bout — a result that still stands as one of the few losses on the champion’s striking résumé. While Shevchenko’s team has long disputed the outcome, Cong has continued to lean on that victory as leverage in her pursuit of a UFC showdown.

    Currently riding a three-fight win streak, “The Joker” is working her way back into contention after a setback in 2024. She’s now scheduled to face Tracy Cortez at UFC 329 in July, a fight that could bring her closer to a long-awaited clash with Shevchenko.

  • Sean Strickland Wants UFC Exit To Fight Jake Paul After Influencer Boxer Lands Spot On Forbes’ Highest-Paid Athletes List

    Sean Strickland isn’t shy about speaking his mind, and his latest comments make it clear he’s seriously tempted by the kind of money being made outside the UFC.

    The reigning middleweight champion reacted to Jake Paul landing on Forbes’ highest-paid athletes list after reportedly earning around $70 million, and the numbers clearly caught his attention.

    Speaking during a livestream with Nina Drama, the outspoken MMA star openly floated the idea of leaving the UFC altogether to chase a payday against “The Problem Child”.

    “I gotta leave the UFC and go beat up Jake Paul. That’s it. Cut my contract, UFC. It’s time for me to leave,” Strickland said on Nina Drama’s livestream.

    The comments weren’t just made in passing. Strickland doubled down on the financial disparity between MMA and boxing, suggesting that even a partial payday from a Jake Paul fight would eclipse his UFC earnings.

    “If I made even a fraction of that, I’d be making more than the UFC is paying me,” he said. “I’d f—ing beat the s— out of Jake Paul.”

    Strickland also took aim at “The Problem Child’s” in-ring credentials, pointing to his loss against Tommy Fury as evidence that the YouTuber-turned-boxer isn’t operating at a high level.

    “Jake Paul lost against pretty much a reality star named Tommy… He’s not a real boxer,” Strickland added.

    Despite the bravado, Strickland acknowledged that the financial upside is the real driving factor behind his interest. He even claimed a single fight with Paul could surpass what he’s earned throughout his entire UFC career.

    “I’ll make more money f—ing up Jake Paul than I would my entire UFC career. How f—ed up is that?” he said.

  • Did Ray J Expose Fixed Fight With Supa Hot Fire? Adin Ross Responds After Brand Risk 14 Controversy

    The fallout from Adin Ross’ Brand Risk 14 event continues to grow after a bizarre fight between Ray J and Supa Hot Fire left fans questioning what actually happened inside the ring.

    The bout, which took place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas under the oversight of the Nevada State Athletic Commission, quickly became one of the most talked-about moments of the night. Not necessarily because of the action itself, but due to how unusual it looked from start to finish.

    In the opening round, Supa Hot Fire appeared reluctant to engage, circling and throwing little to no offense while Ray J pressed forward. The sudden shift in Round 2 raised even more eyebrows, as Supa Hot Fire abruptly turned aggressive and scored a knockout just moments later.

    It was Ray J’s reaction after the fight, however, that truly ignited controversy.

    “Yo, I thought we had a plan,” Ray J said during his post-fight interview. “I don’t wanna say too much because I don’t wanna get anybody in trouble, but damn… We took an L tonight. Do you know how much money we lost?”

    Those comments immediately led to speculation online about whether there had been some kind of pre-arranged understanding between the fighters. While there is no confirmed evidence to support those claims, the optics of the fight, combined with Ray J’s remarks, fueled widespread skepticism.

    Ross, who promoted the event, acknowledged the concerns and suggested the situation would be reviewed.

    “Ray J obviously what he said after the fight… Supahot not throwing a punch in the first round, we need to look into that,” Ross said during a livestream. “We need to investigate that.”

    The streamer also admitted the sequence of events didn’t look right.

    “Supa looked like himself in the second round… but it looked weird,” Ross added. “We’re taking that very seriously.”

  • UFC White House Event Takes Shape As First Construction Image Surfaces Online Ahead Of June 14

    Early signs of history in the making are now visible at the White House.

    MMA journalist Luke Thomas recently shared a birds-eye image on X showing heavy construction activity on the South Lawn, where preparations appear to be underway for the UFC’s unprecedented event.

    While massive cranes can be seen dominating the backdrop, with ongoing work tied to a new State Ballroom and a multi-level underground security complex, a section of the lawn shows clear signs of staging development.

    All of it points toward UFC Freedom 250, scheduled for June 14, which will mark the first time a professional fight card takes place on White House grounds.

    The UFC is reportedly preparing to move in around 350 truckloads of equipment, with each delivery potentially taking hours due to strict White House security protocols. With no existing arena infrastructure on the South Lawn, the promotion is expected to build everything from the ground up, including power supply, broadcast facilities, locker rooms, and operational areas.

    The terrain is also considered a major challenge. The South Lawn has a noticeable slope, and engineers are said to have used detailed measurements to design a raised platform system. This is expected to include large structural support, possibly even a wall on one side, to ensure a completely level surface for the Octagon.

    From a visual standpoint, the setup is expected to be unlike anything the UFC has done before. Plans suggest an open-air Octagon, positioned to keep the White House as a constant backdrop, with a large “claw” lighting rig, developed with assistance from live production specialists at Tait Towers, suspended above to handle lighting and broadcast needs.

    Seating is expected to be limited to around 4,000 invited guests, likely including military personnel and select VIPs, while a nearby fan zone at the Ellipse could accommodate tens of thousands of spectators for a live viewing experience.

    With Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje set for a lightweight title unification bout and Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane expected to clash for the interim heavyweight title, the historic card is no longer just a concept and is rapidly taking shape.

  • Conor McGregor Wanted Michael Chandler For Comeback But UFC Didn’t Approve It

    Conor McGregor Wanted Michael Chandler For Comeback But UFC Didn’t Approve It

    Conor McGregor’s long-awaited return could have looked very different.

    While the former two-division champion is now set to face Max Holloway in the main event of UFC 329 on July 11, new details reveal that wasn’t the original plan from his side.

    According to his longtime manager Audie Attar, McGregor had his sights set on settling unfinished business with Michael Chandler.

    Speaking to MMA Junkie, Attar explained that McGregor pushed hard to make the Chandler fight happen, especially given their history as opposing coaches on The Ultimate Fighter 31 and the previously canceled bout at UFC 303 in June 2024.

    “Conor really wanted to give that to Michael Chandler,” Attar said. “He just felt Michael deserved it, having gone through the show and experienced that camp, the unfortunate injury, and the cancellation of the bout. Conor really, really wanted that to happen, and we did everything to try to push it.”

    Despite those efforts, the matchup never materialized — not because of a lack of interest from McGregor’s team, but due to the promotion’s direction at the time.

    “At the time, it just didn’t make sense for the UFC,” Attar added. “But it doesn’t mean that it might not happen in the future… It can become a reality.”

    Instead, negotiations shifted toward a different high-profile option, ultimately leading to the Holloway rematch. The two first met back in 2013, with McGregor earning a decision win, and the sequel now offers both familiarity and intrigue.

    “Like I said, we pushed for Chandler. That was our main focus initially,” Attar continued. “Different names surfaced in the conversations, and in the negotiations… from a Max Holloway perspective, we know we got one on Max, and he wants to get that back.”

    The weight class also played a role in shaping the final decision.

    “With the time Conor has been out, it just made sense to do it at 170,” Attar said. “Max was game right away and willing to step up and take the matchup.”

    For Chandler, the wait for a showdown with “The Notorious” continues, though Attar made it clear the door isn’t closed. Meanwhile, both fighters move forward with separate fights scheduled this summer, leaving fans to wonder if the long-teased clash could still happen down the line.

  • Conor McGregor Hints At Massive New UFC Deal Ahead Of July 11 Comeback – ‘They Honored Me, Finally’

    Conor McGregor is finally set to make his long-awaited return, and it’s not just the fight that has him fired up — it’s the deal behind it.

    After nearly five years away from the Octagon, the former two-division champion is scheduled to headline UFC 329 against Max Holloway on July 11 in Las Vegas. But behind the scenes, McGregor’s comeback hinged on something much bigger than just an opponent.

    Earlier this year, “The Notorious” publicly stated that his previous contract had effectively become worthless following the UFC’s shift away from the traditional pay-per-view model in favor of a streaming deal with Paramount+. That change meant a renegotiation was inevitable for the promotion’s biggest draw.

    Now, with the fight officially booked, McGregor has made it clear he’s satisfied with how things played out.

    “The big fight is coming,” McGregor said in an interview with former Navy SEAL Rob O’Neill. “Let’s cheers to that. ‘The Mac’ is back, baby. Let’s go.”

    Beyond the excitement of competing again, McGregor emphasized that the UFC delivered what he was looking for financially.

    “I’ve got a great deal off the UFC. I’m very, very happy. They honored me, finally,” he added.

    The Irishman hasn’t fought since suffering a leg injury in his trilogy bout against Dustin Poirier in 2021, and he hasn’t recorded a victory since his quick finish of Donald Cerrone in early 2020. Despite the long layoff, McGregor insists he’s returning in peak condition.

    “I’m out so long, five years. My body’s fresh, my mind is sharp. I’m ready to come back,” he said. “Preparation has gone very well. We’re living, breathing, and sleeping in the gym.”

    As for the matchup itself, McGregor is confident heading into a rematch with a familiar opponent.

    “And the opponent is a man that I’ve beaten before in Max Holloway,” he said. “He is an established fighter, an accomplished fighter… This is a quality opponent. Our last bout was martial arts mastery by yours truly, so I plan on doing it again.”

  • ‘I Hate Myself’ – UFC Champ Sean Strickland Blasts Adin Ross’ Brand Risk 14 Event After ‘Shameful’ Experience

    Sean Strickland didn’t mince words after his brief appearance at the influencer-driven Brand Risk 14 event, making it clear he regretted showing up almost immediately after it ended.

    The reigning UFC middleweight champion was present at the show, even stepping in on commentary for one of the bouts. But what he witnessed inside the venue clearly didn’t sit well with him.

    Taking to Instagram shortly after leaving, Strickland delivered a brutally honest reaction.

    “I’ve never been a part of anything so shameful in my life, and I hate myself,” Strickland said on his Instagram Stories. “And I feel like less of a man after being here. Oh God, why did I agree to this?”

    The event, which featured a mix of influencer fights and unconventional matchups, left Strickland visibly disturbed. While he initially appeared to be going along with the spectacle during the broadcast, his tone shifted completely once he exited the arena.

    “I had to get the f— out of there,” he added. “I like Adin, but I’m sick to my stomach. That is the most f—ed up thing I’ve ever witnessed in my life.”

    According to Strickland, his appearance wasn’t about the event itself but rather supporting people he knows, including content creator Adin Ross. Still, the experience quickly turned into something he wanted no part of.

    “I was just trying to say hi to a friend, next thing you know, your dignity is gone,” he said. “I’m ready to go home and look myself in the mirror. I’ve never done anything so shameful in my life being a part of this.”

    Beyond just the event, Strickland also voiced concerns about the broader direction of entertainment culture, particularly the influence of streaming personalities.

    “You take these streamers and they have this massive following,” he said. “You just know they’re the next generation… It’s so bad. I just want it all to stop.”

  • Khamzat Chimaev Points Finger At ‘American Judges’ For UFC Title Loss To Sean Strickland

    Khamzat Chimaev Points Finger At ‘American Judges’ For UFC Title Loss To Sean Strickland

    Khamzat Chimaev is no longer staying quiet about his first loss inside the Octagon, and he’s pointing toward more than just the action inside the cage as the reason behind it.

    The former middleweight champion suffered a narrow split decision defeat to Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 328 in Newark, a result that saw Strickland reclaim the 185-pound title. While the fight was widely viewed as competitive, the scorecards immediately sparked debate among fans, media, and fighters alike.

    Now, weeks removed from the bout, Chimaev has voiced his own concerns — and they go beyond simple judging criteria.

    In a now-deleted post on X, later shared via Championship Rounds, Chimaev suggested that nationality may have played a role in how the fight was scored.

    “All judges are American, the organization is American, the opponent is American, and one is Chechen,” he wrote. “It’s a close fight. Who do you think will win?”

    Despite the implication, “Borz” was quick to shut down the idea that he was making excuses for the loss. In a follow-up message on X, he made his intentions clear.

    “No excuses I just wanna f— him up, this s— trying to run away,” he added.

    “Borz” has also continued to push for a rematch with Strickland, doubling down on his desire to run things back after what many viewed as a razor-close contest. Even among media members, scoring was split, with a notable portion favoring the 32-year-old Chechen’s performance on the night.

    The loss marked the first blemish on Chimaev’s previously perfect professional record and ended his reign as middleweight champion.

  • ‘What A Robbery, What A Fix’ – UFC Champ Tom Aspinall Explodes Over Oleksandr Usyk vs Rico Verhoeven Controversial Stoppage

    Tom Aspinall didn’t hold back after watching Rico Verhoeven fall short against Oleksandr Usyk in their WBC heavyweight title clash, labeling the ending as nothing short of outrageous.

    The UFC heavyweight champion was watching the fight live on his YouTube channel when the dramatic finish unfolded. With just one second remaining in Round 11, the referee stepped in to stop the bout following a late flurry from Usyk, a decision that immediately sparked widespread debate.

    Aspinall’s reaction was instant and emotional.

    “Oh, what? He stopped it? No f*cking way,” Aspinall said during the live stream on his YouTube channel. “For a world title fight, he stopped it with about five or six unanswered shots. What? Mate, what the f*cking hell is that? What a robbery. What a fix that is.”

    The British heavyweight, who has trained alongside Verhoeven in the past, made it clear he believed the stoppage wasn’t just premature but deeply questionable.

    “I think he’s fine there. Gum shield’s gone, but I think he’s alright… Last 10 seconds, Rico can survive this,” he said. “Oh what, he stopped it?! No f*cking way!”

    Aspinall went further by comparing the decision to other recent fights, arguing that far worse damage has been allowed to continue without intervention.

    “Two weeks ago, we were at Fabio Wardley and Daniel Dubois ringside,” he said. “Mate, that happened probably 10 times. Sent Fabio Wardley out there, big swollen eye, nose smashed, dropped multiple times… they let that go. Rico gets stumbled with 10 seconds left and they don’t even let him make it to the end of the round? It’s a f*cking robbery.”

    He also pointed to the timing of the stoppage, suggesting Verhoeven was denied a fair chance to recover between rounds.

    “The bell went. So he stopped it after the round, basically,” Aspinall said. “Why not give him a chance? It’s not like he was taking a beating for the full fight. He took a few punches late, with one round to go. I can’t believe that.”

    Beyond the stoppage itself, Aspinall hinted at a broader issue within the sport, questioning whether fighters from outside traditional boxing backgrounds are given a fair shake.

    “Boxing don’t want anyone else to win. Simple as that,” he said. “They want boxers with the amateur style, Olympic medals, unbeaten records. That’s what they want. They don’t like other combat sports. It’s bullsh*t.”

    Verhoeven had entered the fight as a heavy underdog with limited professional boxing experience, but his performance surprised many, with some believing he was competitive on the scorecards heading into the final rounds.