MMA News

Author: Pranav Pandey

  • Kayla Harrison On Amanda Nunes Rift: ‘Don’t Play With My Homies!’

    Kayla Harrison On Amanda Nunes Rift: ‘Don’t Play With My Homies!’

    Kayla Harrison recently opened up about her lingering rivalry with Amanda Nunes, voicing her wish for the Brazilian to come out of retirement.

    One of the MMA world’s most tantalizing “what if” matchups has long centered around a potential showdown between Harrison and Nunes. Harrison, a two-time Olympic judo gold medalist, spent the majority of her MMA career in the PFL before making her highly anticipated UFC debut this past April. The former PFL women’s lightweight champion’s move to the UFC sparked renewed speculation about a possible clash with “The Lioness”.

    The biggest hurdle to making this super fight a reality is that Nunes had already hung up her gloves following a unanimous decision win over Irene Aldana at UFC 289 in June 2023. That was nearly a year ago when “Doug” made her first Octagon appearance against Holly Holm at UFC 300.

    Harrison and Nunes share a rich history, having long expressed mutual interest in facing off ever since their days as training partners at American Top Team (ATT) in Florida. However, following her shocking loss to Julianna Peña at UFC 269 in December 2021, “The Lioness” chose to sever ties with the gym.

    Nunes later disclosed that her decision to leave ATT was fueled by unease, as she often found herself training alongside two fighters who could potentially become her opponents, Harrison and Yana Kunitskaya, making her departure feel inevitable.

    Harrison Hopes For Nunes’ Return to Settle Unfinished Business

    During a recent interview with MMAFightingonSBN, the former Olympic gold medalist shared her thoughts on Nunes, who had hinted at a possible comeback after witnessing Harrison’s victory over Holm at UFC 300. However, since then, Nunes has gone completely silent, leaving Harrison and fans in suspense over whether the long-anticipated showdown will ever happen.

    The 34-year-old Ohio native clarified that there’s no bad blood between her and “The Lioness”, yet she remains hopeful that the former two-division UFC champion will come out of retirement to face her.

    “Selfishly, I hope that she does [come out of retirement], but again, I have no beef with Amanda other than her trying to throw American Top Team under the bus,” Harrison said. “You don’t play or don’t f**k with my homies. But listen, if she’s happy and she’s living her dream, that’s great, but selfishly, I would love for her to come back so that I can put all of the noise to rest.”

    Harrison, who is gearing up for a high-stakes bantamweight showdown against Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307 next month, emphasized that her primary focus is locked on the upcoming fight. She added that her sights are set on capturing the title first before entertaining any potential matchup against Nunes.

    “Again, one step at a time: Ketlen first, then the title, and then Amanda, if she wants some.”

  • Alexander Volkanovski Compares Noche UFC 306 Fighter To Himself In Prediction

    Alexander Volkanovski Compares Noche UFC 306 Fighter To Himself In Prediction

    Alexander Volkanovski recently likened Merab Dvalishvili’s resilience to his own in his prediction for Noche UFC 306.

    Dvalishvili is set to challenge reigning UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley in the headlining bout of the highly anticipated pay-per-view event, slated to take place this Saturday at The Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    Despite riding the wave of an impressive 10-fight win streak, “The Machine” had to tirelessly push for his long-awaited title shot. Now, standing in his path is one of the UFC’s most skilled strikers. While Dvalishvili is widely believed to hold the grappling edge, he plans to use constant forward pressure and sharp boxing to wear O’Malley down.

    Dvalishvili has long proven his ability to turn his cardio into a relentless force, making it one of the defining strengths of his fighting style. Volkanovski believes this unmatched endurance is what truly sets him apart in his upcoming showdown with “Suga”


    Volkanovski Says Keeping Dvalishvili At Bay Is A Tough Task

    In a recent prediction video for Noche UFC 306 on his YouTube channel, “The Great” shared his thoughts on the O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili matchup. The former UFC featherweight champion acknowledged that while “The Machine” boasts exceptional wrestling prowess, he remains susceptible to O’Malley’s razor-sharp striking accuracy.

    “Is he [Dvalishvili] gonna be open to being hit? Yes, I believe so,” Volkanovski said. “I think Sean O’Malley’s eye is incredible. His movement’s gonna make it a little bit hard, but his relentless takedown pressure, or his pressure on takedowns, I think he’s gonna eventually get it unless he gets knocked out. I don’t care how good your footwork is, you’re not going to keep Merab away from you unless you put his lights out. That’s the only way you don’t get taken down. I think Merab is going to eventually get the takedown. I don’t care how good Sean O’Malley’s footwork is, the clinch is going to be there.”

    Volkanovski went on to say that Dvalishvili shares the same unyielding, never-back-down mentality that he himself possesses, a trait that makes fighters like them incredibly difficult to defeat.

    “I believe, like myself, there are quite a few fighters out there who just never give up. They’re constantly there, just grinding and grinding, and it’s just too much for people. For someone like Merab, I feel like the only way I see him losing is by getting knocked out. That’s how I’ve always seen myself. I’ve always been quite confident, but I don’t believe anyone’s going to go out there and out-grind me or out-work me.”

    While “The Great” predicted that Dvalishvili could clinch a win by methodically imposing his will over the entire 25-minute bout, he also warned that the ever-present danger of a knockout from O’Malley looms large.

  • Dana White Praises ‘In The Shadows’ Al Haymon For Snagging MGM Grand Canelo Fight

    Dana White Praises ‘In The Shadows’ Al Haymon For Snagging MGM Grand Canelo Fight

    Dana White recently lauded Al Haymon, the mastermind behind Premier Boxing Champions (PBC), for securing the iconic MGM Grand as the venue for Canelo Alvarez’s upcoming bout.

    On September 14, White will be in a rare showdown in Las Vegas as two major combat sports events clash. Alvarez is set to defend his unified super middleweight title against Edgar Berlanga at the MGM-owned T-Mobile Arena, while the UFC makes history by hosting the first-ever live combat sports event at The Sphere with Noche UFC.

    Over the past two years, the UFC has consistently hosted four pay-per-view events annually at the T-Mobile Arena. For years, MGM held a firm grip on all prime live sporting venues along the Las Vegas Strip. That all changed in September 2023, when the Madison Square Garden Company shattered the monopoly by unveiling The Sphere, a cutting-edge, one-of-a-kind venue featuring 16K wraparound LED screens and immersive sound technology.

    This allowed the UFC to stage one of its most expensive events on September 14, despite PBC securing the date with MGM Resorts International. Last year, White outpaced Canelo by launching the inaugural Noche UFC at T-Mobile Arena after the UFC claimed the date first. Alvarez fought Jermell Charlo two weeks later at the same venue.

    The UFC and Canelo have previously locked horns over scheduling conflicts on the same night. However, White gained the upper hand on November 2, 2019, when Alvarez’s light heavyweight title fight against Sergey Kovalev was delayed by nearly two hours to avoid competing for viewers as Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal fought for the inaugural BMF title in the main event of UFC 244.

    The UFC CEO initially wasn’t thrilled when PBC also locked in the September 14 date for a Canelo fight, but now he appears unfazed by the rival spectacle…

    White Commends PBC For Going Head-to-Head with Noche UFC

    During a recent interview with Vegas PBS, White was asked if the UFC was sending a message by going head-to-head with a Canelo event on the Mexican Independence Day weekend. The UFC head honcho, however, took the high road, praising PBC’s Haymon for his promotional acumen in securing both the September 14 date and the T-Mobile Arena for the showdown.

    “I knew that there was going to be an event. You have to assume it’s going to be Canelo that night,” White said. “It is what it is. They’re going to do their thing; we’re going to do our thing. Al Haymon slid in there and stole that date from us, which I’ve got to give him props for. Al Haymon is a boxing promoter who is very, very bright, very sharp, and what makes him fascinating as a boxing promoter is that when you think of all the promoters throughout life, whether it’s P.T. Barnum, Vince McMahon, or [Bob] Arum, you’ve seen them a million times. Al Haymon is in the shadows; he’s a guy that you’ve never seen, yet he is one of the biggest fight promoters in the boxing business.”

    White further added that if PBC hadn’t locked down the T-Mobile Arena for that same date, the UFC wouldn’t have opted for The Sphere as the venue for Noche UFC.

    “Props to him; he [Haymon] slid in and stole my date at MGM. But if that didn’t happen, I believe everything happens for a reason. If that doesn’t happen and things don’t line up the way they did, I’m not at The Sphere, I’m not first, and a lot of other things. So this was meant to happen, and the fact that we’re going head-to-head with him that night—MGM is guaranteeing the gate to them, they’re guaranteeing them the money no matter whether they sell tickets or don’t. We actually sold the tickets that we’re selling.”

    Noche UFC boasts a stacked roster of Mexican fighters and will showcase two title fights. Headlining the event, Sean O’Malley will defend his UFC bantamweight title against Merab Dvalishvili. In the co-main event, Alexa Grasso will put her UFC flyweight championship on the line in a trilogy bout against former champion Valentina Shevchenko.


  • UFC CEO Dana White Takes Credit For WWE’s Production Improvements: ‘A Lot Of Influence
’

    UFC CEO Dana White Takes Credit For WWE’s Production Improvements: ‘A Lot Of Influence
’

    Dana White recently claimed responsibility for the noticeable enhancements in WWE’s production quality.

    Last September, the UFC and WWE united to form a formidable force in the world of combat sports: TKO Group Holdings. Since their merger, the company has thrived, reaching new levels of success and redefining industry standards.

    WWE fans have experienced a wave of changes recently, with a dramatic shift in production quality. The exit of WWE co-founder Vince McMahon ushered in a major transformation in the company’s operations.

    Following the creation of TKO Group under the Endeavor banner, WWE continued its forward momentum. However, the departure of longtime executive Kevin Dunn marked a significant milestone for the production team.

    Taking over from Dunn, former ESPN executive Lee Fitting stepped into the role of head of media and production this past January. Under his leadership, WWE fans have witnessed a wave of fresh, dynamic camera work, with new angles and walking shots that were previously unseen in WWE broadcasts. The UFC CEO proudly attributes these changes to his own impact…

    White On WWE’s Production Changes: ‘Our Team Has A Lot Of Influence Over What’s Going On’

    During a recent interview with Johnny Resendiz, White was questioned about the possibility of the UFC adopting innovative camera angles and production techniques, similar to the ongoing changes WWE has been implementing.

    The UFC head honcho asserted that many of the recent changes WWE has undergone are largely the result of his MMA promotion’s production team playing a key role behind the scenes.

    “Don’t you find it weird that we got involved in WWE not too long ago, and now they’re experimenting with that?” White said. “Our production team has a lot of influence over what’s going on.”

    Although both combat sports powerhouses now operate under the same umbrella, White has repeatedly dismissed the idea of a competitive crossover between WWE and UFC. He emphasized that any transition between pro wrestling and MMA is handled individually, with no formal plans for cross-promotion between the two worlds.

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Coach: ‘King’ Belal Muhammad Turned The Tables On UFC

    Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Coach: ‘King’ Belal Muhammad Turned The Tables On UFC

    Khabib Nurmagomedov’s coach, Javier Mendez, recently expressed that Belal Muhammad has earned the right to dictate his own terms now that he has claimed the UFC welterweight championship.

    “Remember the Name” made waves by toppling 170-pound champion Leon Edwards with a commanding unanimous decision victory at UFC 304 this past July in Manchester. The highly anticipated rematch followed their initial clash in March 2021, which ended in controversy when an accidental eye poke in the second round forced Muhammad out, resulting in a no contest.

    Muhammad has invariably demonstrated his dominance in the Octagon, as highlighted by his remarkable 11-fight unbeaten streak. But he has struggled to earn the respect he deserves.

    However, now that the 36-year-old Chicago native has claimed the title, he’s elevated his trash-talking game and flipped the script on his critics. Mendez fully supports the shift, believing Muhammad has earned the right to bask in the spotlight…

    Mendez On Muhammad’s New Attitude: ‘They Belittled Him, Now Belal Is The Man’

    During a recent episode of the Javier Mendez Podcast, the esteemed MMA coach shared his thoughts on Muhammad’s shift in approach after capturing the UFC welterweight title. Mendez remarked that despite being overlooked for years, even with an impressive win streak, Muhammad has now rightfully earned the power to dictate his own path.

    “Look at Belal Muhammad, look at what he had to do,” Mendez said. “That poor guy had to do everything, waiting; he was undefeated for how many fights, and he’s knocking on the door, and everybody was like, ‘Oh, he didn’t deserve it,’ and he kept pushing. He finally got his shot, and he did what he needed to do—he won a decisive victory over Leon Edwards. And now, it’s like, who’s doing all the talking? Now Belal is doing all the chirping because they belittled him, and now Belal is the man. Now he’s in charge, and I kind of love what he’s doing because it was done to him.”

    Mendez further added that now, as a champion, “Remember the Name” has the power to pick his next opponent.

    “He bided his time, and now he’s the king. I don’t care what you say—he can do whatever he wants, chirp as much as he wants. He can chirp all he wants because he’s the champ, and that was done to him. He got his opportunity, and he rose to the occasion, coming out with the victory. So now he’s the champ, and now he’s calling the shots like he wants to. Obviously, at the end of the day, the UFC decides who they’re going to give him, but he can decide the date. If he turns down an opponent, then obviously he doesn’t have to fight that opponent, but I don’t think Belal is going to do that. Right now, why not have fun with it like he’s doing?”

    Muhammad has embraced the idea of defending his title against Shavkat Rakhmonov, all while engaging in a fiery social media exchange with Kamaru Usman. The question of who will stand across from Muhammad for his first title defense remains up in the air, and only time will reveal his next challenger.

  • Usman Nurmagomedov Sets Undefeated 100-0 Combined Record Target For Family: ‘I Have Goal For This’

    Usman Nurmagomedov Sets Undefeated 100-0 Combined Record Target For Family: ‘I Have Goal For This’

    Usman Nurmagomedov recently announced an ambitious goal for the Nurmagomedov family: to achieve an undefeated combined record of 100-0 collectively.

    Nurmagomedov successfully defended his lightweight title with a dominant unanimous decision victory over Alexander Shabliy in the main event of Bellator Championship Series 4, held at the Pechanga Arena in San Diego last weekend.

    Usman hails from the legendary Dagestani fighting team, carrying on the family legacy as the younger brother of UFC bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov and the cousin of former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

    “The Eagle” is widely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. Although he may have retired from active competition in October 2020, the Nurmagomedov legacy lives on. Usman, following in his cousin’s legendary footsteps, is determined to etch the family name deeper into MMA history


    100-0 Dream for Nurmagomedov Family Requires Usman and Umar to Win 35 More Bouts

    During the post-event press conference following his victory over Shabliy last weekend, Usman shared his ambitious vision of reaching an almost unblemished 100-0 collective record for the Nurmagomedov family by the time he hangs up his gloves.

    “We want to make like 100-0,” Nurmagomedov said. “Inshallah, one day it’s going to be 100-0, almost 100, not exactly 100. I have [goal] for this, like I have realized, and we’ll see what’s going to happen. You know, the world is changing every second—you don’t know what’s going to happen tomorrow.”

    Both Usman and Umar currently boast flawless professional records of 18-0, while “The Eagle” retired with an undefeated 29-0. Together, this puts the Nurmagomedov family’s collective record at 65-0.

    To achieve their bold vision of a 100-0 record, Usman and Umar—both still early in their careers—must secure 35 more victories combined, all while maintaining their undefeated streak.

    Usman secured his second successful defense of the lightweight title, a belt he originally claimed in November 2022. His unanimous decision victory over Brent Primus at Bellator 300 in October 2023 was overturned to a no contest after Nurmagomedov tested positive for a banned substance.

  • Movsar Evloev On Aljamain Sterling’s PED Accusations: ‘Where I’m From, Girls Talk Like That’

    Movsar Evloev On Aljamain Sterling’s PED Accusations: ‘Where I’m From, Girls Talk Like That’

    Movsar Evloev recently clapped back at Aljamain Sterling after being accused of using performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

    Evloev is gearing up to put his undefeated record on the line against Sterling in a high-stakes featherweight clash on the main card of UFC 307, set for October 5 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    As their fight draws near, “Funk Master” took to social media, hurling serious accusations at Evloev. He boldly suggested that his upcoming opponent is among those slipping under the radar while using PEDs.

    Evloev promptly dismissed the allegations, firing back with a series of posts on X. He even shared a photo of what appeared to be urine samples, subtly suggesting a recent visit from the UFC’s anti-doping partner, Drug Free Sport International.

    However, Sterling escalated his accusations, asserting that the rumors surrounding Evloev closely mirror the speculation that once swirled around his former opponent, T.J. Dillashaw, before he eventually tested positive for PED use.

    Evloev on Sterling’s Cheating Allegations: ‘Everybody Thinks I’m Using Something Because I’m Strong’

    During a recent interview with MMAFightingonSBN, Evloev fiercely rebutted Sterling’s PED allegations. The undefeated Russian dismissed “Funk Master” for speaking without solid evidence, stating that he prefers to let his actions speak for themselves when the two are locked inside the Octagon next month.

    “I don’t know what the point of this is, but I don’t care,” Evloev said. “We have doping control here, and I’m always clean. I’m happy being in the UFC because I know there is good doping control, and I can be confident knowing that my opponent also takes a doping test. So if you talk without proof, you know where I’m from—girls talk like that, and men don’t talk like that. And yeah, I can’t wait to beat his a**, and in four weeks, we’ll see.”

    Evloev went on to say that many accuse him of cheating simply because he outmatches his opponents in strength and possesses exceptional cardio. However, he emphasized that, in reality, he’s a clean fighter who trains hard to achieve his physical advantages.

    “Everybody thinks that I’m using something because, like, I’m strong, I breathe well, and I’m never tired. I’m clean, 100%. I eat well, I sleep well, I train hard—everything to be as strong as I am. And if you’re lazy, you can talk like that.”

    Evloev currently boasts an impressive undefeated professional record of 18-0, with eight of those victories coming in the UFC. He most recently secured a unanimous decision win over Arnold Allen at UFC 297 in January. The 30-year-old native of Sunzha has also claimed notable victories against elite fighters such as Dan Ige, Diego Lopes, and Hakeem Dawodu.

    • Read More: Aljamain Sterling Accuses Sean O’Malley Of Being Given The ‘Jake Paul Route’ By The UFC: ‘Stacking The Deck Against His Opponent’
  • Jon Anik Labels Noche UFC At The Sphere The ‘Sickest Sh*t’ He Has Ever Seen

    Jon Anik Labels Noche UFC At The Sphere The ‘Sickest Sh*t’ He Has Ever Seen

    Jon Anik is now hyped for Noche UFC after witnessing the impressive production quality of the upcoming pay-per-view event at The Sphere.

    UFC 306, known as Riyadh Season Noche UFC, is scheduled for September 14 at The Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada, in honor of Mexican Independence Day. The landmark event will represent a significant milestone for the promotion, as it will be the first time a sponsor secures the prestigious title partner status in UFC history.

    The fight card, stacked with a lineup of Mexican fighters, will feature two title bouts. In the main event, Sean O’Malley will defend his UFC bantamweight crown against Merab Dvalishvili, while the co-main event will see Alexa Grasso put her UFC flyweight title on the line in a highly anticipated trilogy bout against Valentina Shevchenko.

    Noche UFC could be Dana White’s most extravagant venture yet, with the UFC CEO reportedly investing over $20 million to craft an unforgettable experience. The event is set to be the first-ever live sporting spectacle at The Sphere, a massive arena featuring stunning wraparound LED screens in 16K resolution and immersive sound technology.

    With cutting-edge audio and visual technology at its disposal, the UFC plans to deliver a groundbreaking production level at Noche UFC. Anik, having already caught a sneak peek, is buzzing with anticipation…

    Anik Blown Away by Noche UFC’s Spectacular Production At The Sphere

    Anik recently took to X to share a report from MMA Fighting, unveiling that the UFC, in partnership with ESPN, will premiere a series of six short films during Noche UFC, celebrating Mexico’s profound impact on combat sports.

    These 90-second vignettes, crafted to air between the main card fights, are helmed by acclaimed director Glenn Weiss, known for producing major live events like the Oscars and Emmys, with Carlos Lopez Estrada contributing his talents to bring the project to life.

    In another post, the UFC’s play-by-play commentator revealed that he got an exclusive preview of what the promotion has in store for their upcoming event, and he’s absolutely stunned by the sheer scale and brilliance of the production.

    “Earlier this week, I got my first look at some of the visual experiences for the UFC’s September 14th Sphere show,” Anik tweeted. “Maybe the sickest sh*t I’ve ever seen. This is the most involved, sophisticated live broadcast of which I’ve been a part. Gonna be absolutely nuts. #NocheUFC”

    The Sphere, located just off the iconic Las Vegas Strip behind the grand Venetian and Palazzo resorts, was brought to life by James L. Dolan, the owner of Madison Square Garden, in collaboration with the New York Knicks and the New York Rangers. Construction began in 2018 with a jaw-dropping $2.3 billion price tag.

    The venue’s LED exterior covers a massive 580,000 square feet, towering 366 feet tall and stretching 516 feet wide. Inside, an astonishing 167,000 individually amplified speakers fill the space, while the video wall boasts 173 million individual LED light nodes. The Sphere can accommodate 17,600 attendees for concerts, though the seating will be slightly reduced for Noche UFC, holding around 17,000 for the historic event.

  • ‘Did You Jab Him To A Split Decision?’ – MMA Fans React After Sean Strickland Recounts Being A High School Bully

    ‘Did You Jab Him To A Split Decision?’ – MMA Fans React After Sean Strickland Recounts Being A High School Bully

    Former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland’s recent admission of having bullied a fellow student during his high school years sparked a wave of backlash from fans online.

    Strickland has drawn as much attention for his abrasive and controversial antics outside the Octagon as for his impressive prowess within it. With his unapologetically bold and raw demeanor, the 33-year-old Californian has become a divisive figure in the MMA world, regularly igniting debate with his provocative takes on everyday matters.

    “Tarzan” has never shied away from stirring the pot, frequently finding himself at the center of controversy. Whether it’s dishing out a ruthless beatdown on popular streamer Sneako during a sparring session, advocating for bullying as a way to push overweight individuals to lose weight, or receiving a sharp rebuke from UFC CEO Dana White about potential deportation from Canada ahead of his UFC 297 bout with Dricus Du Plessis due to his divisive comments on the LGBTQ community, Strickland’s behavior has consistently kept him walking a razor’s edge.

    Following a recent school shooting in Georgia, Strickland took to X to reflect on his past, admitting that during his high school years, he had bullied and beaten a classmate named Dunkin. Attempting to make amends, he offered a brief and seemingly casual apology for his actions.

    “Public schools=hell. There was this one kid, Dunkin,” Strickland tweeted. “My full-time HS punching bag until he vanished. I was so hard on this guy. Beating him up in the locker room daily, calling him colombine. My bad, man, truly it’s not an excuse
 but I got it way worse than I gave it.”

    Strickland’s Bullying Admission Draws Heavy Criticism From MMA Fans

    The MMA community responded to Strickland’s confession about being a high school bully with a wave of reactions, many of them calling him out for perpetuating the cycle of abuse he endured from his troubled childhood and abusive father.

    One fan sarcastically mocked him for relying on split-decision victories in most of his bouts.

    “Did you jab him to a split decision?”

    https://twitter.com/fightexpert_2/status/1831888949826220340

    Another fan shared a meme of Du Plessis taking a verbal jab at Strickland’s turbulent upbringing during the UFC 297 press conference.

    “Same happened here.”

    https://twitter.com/Lizard69Talking/status/1831839022697869378

    Another fan suggested that “Tarzan” should track down the person he bullied in high school and offer a car as a peace offering.

    “Find him. Buy him a car or something.”

    One fan called out Strickland for his half-hearted apology.

    “‘My bad man’ gotta be up there with the top 10 worst apologies ever.”

    “Bro, you’re a literal walking piece of garbage.”

    “What would you do to protect your son from people like you (as a kid)?”

    “Maybe you guys can catch up with a sparring session.”

    “That boy was Dricus Du’nkin Plessis, who came back and ultimately got his revenge.”

    “You deserve to be cast in a WWE Marine movie sequel for that.”

    “At least Sean admits he was in the wrong. I see 1000s of clips on X where people gang up on others or beat up handicapped people. It’s sick .”

    “Sean, you were born too late. You were meant for different things for a different time”

  • Robert Whittaker: You Have To Match Dricus Du Plessis’ ‘Superpower’ To Beat Him

    Robert Whittaker: You Have To Match Dricus Du Plessis’ ‘Superpower’ To Beat Him

    Robert Whittaker recently showered Dricus Du Plessis with praise, commending his fierce mentality and determination to secure victories in the Octagon.

    At UFC 305 last month, Du Plessis successfully defended his middleweight crown for the first time, securing a stunning fourth-round submission victory over former champion Israel Adesanya—a win that Whittaker had confidently predicted beforehand.

    “The Reaper” is no stranger to Du Plessis. The 33-year-old Aussie clashed with “Stillknocks” at UFC 290 in July 2023, where Du Plessis stopped him in the second round. Before that bout, Whittaker had an impeccable 12-0 record in the UFC’s 185-pound division against everyone except Adesanya, to whom he had fallen twice.

    Whittaker is now preparing for a high-stakes showdown against Khamzat Chimaev in a five-round middleweight clash, serving as the co-main event of UFC 308. The bout is set for October 26 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

    The victor of this matchup is expected to earn a title shot against Du Plessis, and Whittaker is focused on sharpening his skills, determined to first conquer “Borz” and then settle the score with the South African…

    Whittaker On Du Plessis’ Toughness: ‘He’s Literally Willing To Die Out There’

    During a recent interview with mainevent, “The Reaper” opened up about his preparations for his upcoming showdown with Chimaev. The former middleweight champion revealed that he’s working hard to refine all aspects of his game, whether it’s striking or wrestling, as he aims to be more well-rounded than ever before.

    “My striking is only getting better,” Whittaker said. “You can believe that every second you don’t see me in a ring or in an Octagon striking, I’m out there—I’m on the mat wrestling. Like, I’m constantly wrestling, I’m constantly grinding, and I’m perfecting myself. I’m really looking to come into this next fight as the best version of myself, with every box ticked.”

    Whittaker also weighed in on Du Plessis’ victory over Adesanya, offering insight into what sets “Stillknocks” apart. He noted that while Du Plessis boasts an unorthodox fighting style, it’s his ironclad mentality and toughness that truly drives his success in the cage.

    “I think he’s got a really solid headspace and mentality for winning fights. I think that’s like his superpower because he’s an awkward dude, he obviously hits really hard, and he’s tough as nails. But I think all of that stems from his relentlessness mentally. He’s literally willing to die out there, and I think if you don’t match that mentality, if you don’t come into the Octagon with the same headspace, you’re not going to take it from him.”

    Whittaker is riding a wave of momentum with consecutive dominant victories over Paulo Costa and Ikram Aliskerov. Now, he’s setting his sights on delivering a statement performance against Chimaev, hoping to solidify his position as the next in line to challenge Du Plessis for the title.

  • ONE’s Mikey Musumeci Stripped Of Title After Failing Three-Day, 35-Pound Weight Cut

    ONE’s Mikey Musumeci Stripped Of Title After Failing Three-Day, 35-Pound Weight Cut

    ONE Championship flyweight submission grappling titleholder Mikey Musumeci recently became embroiled in controversy after being stripped of his belt for missing weight ahead of his upcoming bout.

    Musumeci was originally set to challenge lightweight grappling champion Kade Ruotolo in the co-main event of ONE 168: Denver on Friday night. However, in a dramatic twist during fight week, Ruotolo was forced to withdraw due to injury. Consequently, the promotion quickly arranged for reigning IBJJF world champion Carlos Oliveira to step in as a last-minute replacement, facing Musumeci for his flyweight title.

    With just three days’ notice, “Darth Rigatoni” was tasked with dropping to 135 pounds, a significant cut from the originally planned 170-pound limit. Despite the extreme difficulty of such a rapid weight loss, Musumeci gave it his all. However, at Thursday’s official weigh-in, the 28-year-old New Jersey native came in at 142 pounds, missing the mark by seven pounds.

    To make matters worse, he also failed the hydration test, resulting in Musumeci being stripped of his ONE Championship title. The fight will still proceed as a catchweight bout, but now only Oliveira has a chance to win the belt if he secures the victory.

    Musumeci Labels Title Stripping The ‘Worst Day’ of His Jiu Jitsu Career

    After failing to meet the required weight and hydration benchmarks, which resulted in the loss of his title, Musumeci took to Instagram to share his emotional response to the situation. In a heartfelt message, ‘Darth Rigatoni’ expressed his sincere apologies to both his supporters and Oliveira for missing weight.

    “Probably one of the worst days of my life in jiu jitsu,” Musumeci wrote. “I wanted so bad to compete in ONE 168 in Denver. I felt horrible for the fans who were coming to see me, and I felt I was letting them down. I tried to make the championship 135 pounds weight in about 72 hours, but it was too much on short notice after preparing for the Kade match. My body and hydration shut down when I got to 136 [pounds] earlier today.”

    “Today I lost my belt, today I let down the fans, and I want to apologize to my opponent Bebeto, someone I respect greatly, for not being able to make the weight. I’m so sorry to everyone, but I gave it my all. But God has everything happen for a reason. I’m so sorry again, everyone.”

    Musumeci is fresh off a dominant first-round submission victory over Gabriel Sousa at ONE 167 this past June. Boasting an undefeated 7-0 record in the promotion, he’s proven himself a force to be reckoned with, maintaining an impressive 71% submission win rate.

  • Merab Dvalishvili Feels Former Champ More Deserving Of Next Title Shot Than Umar Nurmagomedov

    Merab Dvalishvili Feels Former Champ More Deserving Of Next Title Shot Than Umar Nurmagomedov

    Merab Dvalishvili recently voiced his belief that a former UFC champion is far more deserving of the next bantamweight title shot than rising star Umar Nurmagomedov.

    Dvalishvili is gearing up for his first title opportunity against bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley in the main event of UFC 306, which is set to go down next weekend at The Sphere in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    “The Machine”, currently riding an impressive 10-fight win streak, has been relentlessly campaigning for this title shot but already has someone in mind who he believes is more fitting for the next opportunity. Following Nurmagomedov’s dominant unanimous decision victory over Cory Sandhagen at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi last month, there’s been growing chatter that the undefeated Dagestani is the frontrunner to face the winner of the upcoming O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili showdown.

    However, Dvalishvili thinks that former UFC flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo is the more rightful contender for the next bantamweight title shot over Nurmagomedov…

    Dvalishvili Shares His Rationale For Choosing Figueiredo Over Nurmagomedov

    During a recent interview with SHAK MMA, “The Machine” was asked to weigh in on who he believes deserves the next crack at the 135-pound title. The 33-year-old Georgian fighter acknowledged that while Nurmagomedov is undeniably talented, he still has more to prove in the division.

    “I don’t know because he [Nurmagomedov] never fought somebody—well, not never; he only fought one guy from the top 15,” Dvalishvili said. “And the guy, Sandhagen, gave him a hard time, and how would I know? He fights people who are nobody, and they gave him #2. Yes, he got the win, but I mean, he’s a good fighter for sure, but he hasn’t earned it to be here.”

    In contrast, Dvalishvili thinks “Deus da Guerra” has already solidified his place by showcasing his skills against three of the division’s top contenders.

    “Figueiredo deserves to fight for the title next because he beat three top contenders. He finished one former champion, he dominated title challenger [Marlon] ‘Chito’ Vera, he beat Rob Font, and he finished Cody Garbrandt. Figueiredo is a former champion, he has a big name, and he called my name respectfully. I would like to return that respect, and I believe he is more deserving. Umar, I’m not interested.”

    Figueiredo secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Vera at UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, extending his undefeated streak to 3-0 since moving up to the bantamweight division.

    The Brazilian standout also threw down the gauntlet, offering to serve as the backup fighter for the highly anticipated O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili title bout. However, the UFC has yet to confirm any plans regarding his involvement.

  • Jake Paul Provides Excellent Explanation Why UFC Isn’t Offering Conor McGregor A Fight

    Jake Paul Provides Excellent Explanation Why UFC Isn’t Offering Conor McGregor A Fight

    Jake Paul recently shared his take on why the UFC seems to be holding back on offering Conor McGregor a fight.

    “The Notorious” has remained absent from the Octagon ever since suffering that severe leg break in his trilogy bout against longtime rival Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. For nearly two years, fans and analysts alike have been left in suspense, wondering when MMA’s biggest star will make his highly anticipated return.

    When McGregor stepped into the role of coach opposite Michael Chandler on The Ultimate Fighter 31 last year, it sparked widespread anticipation that the two would eventually square off in 2023. Despite the constant buzz surrounding the matchup, the fight never came to fruition. Finally, it was set to headline UFC 303 in June. However, just over two weeks before the event, the former two-division champion had to withdraw due to a toe injury.

    Since then, McGregor has been resolute in his claims that he’ll make his return to the cage before the end of 2024. However, UFC CEO Dana White has poured cold water on the idea of the Irishman fighting between September and November, as all pay-per-view slots for those months are already booked.

    “The Problem Child” believes the UFC is intentionally keeping McGregor on the sidelines, suggesting that the organization is doing so to protect its own financial interests…

    Paul Claims UFC Is Banking On McGregor’s Star Power For Lucrative Media Deal

    During a recent episode of BS w/ Jake Paul, the YouTuber-turned-boxer shared his theory on why the UFC is delaying McGregor’s return to the Octagon despite the Irishman still having two fights left on his current contract.

    Paul, a vocal critic of UFC’s fighter pay structure, suggested that the promotion is intentionally holding McGregor back to capitalize on his star power. He believes the UFC is leveraging McGregor’s brand to secure a massive broadcasting deal.

    “For the people at home who don’t understand it, basically they’re like, ‘Why is Conor not fighting?’” Paul said. “Conor has two fights left on his fight deal, but the UFC is trying to renew their rights deal because they license their content, which are the fights, to platforms. So they’re trying to renew their deal and are negotiating with multiple people, but let’s say it’s going to go with ESPN.”

    “They’re trying to renew the deal and get the most amount of money. A part of that negotiation is, ‘Hey, we have Conor McGregor for two more fights,’ but if he were to fight now, that wouldn’t be a part of the negotiation. The company would be like, ‘Oh yeah, well, you only have Conor for one fight,’ so that’s why Conor is not fighting right now.”

    The UFC’s existing broadcast agreement with ESPN is set to run through 2025, and they are currently in talks with multiple platforms for a new contract. Back in 2018, the UFC inked a five-year, $1.5 billion deal with ESPN for exclusive domestic broadcast rights, which took effect in 2019.

    Early in 2019, the partnership was extended by two years with the addition of pay-per-view streaming rights. Before transitioning to the ESPN era, the UFC had spent seven years on FOX networks.

  • TUF 32 Fighter Hints At ‘Favoritism’ From Valentina Shevchenko Ahead Of UFC Vegas 97 Scrap

    TUF 32 Fighter Hints At ‘Favoritism’ From Valentina Shevchenko Ahead Of UFC Vegas 97 Scrap

    Nathan Fletcher recently hinted that his upcoming opponent may have been receiving special treatment from Valentina Shevchenko ahead of their showdown at UFC Vegas 97.

    Fletcher is set to make his promotional debut this weekend in a featherweight clash against fellow Team Shevchenko newcomer Zygimantas Ramaska. Originally scheduled to fight at UFC Vegas 96 on August 24, Fletcher was forced to withdraw on fight day due to an undisclosed medical issue. Although the severity of the issue remains unknown, the 26-year-old Englishman wasted no time, and the bout was swiftly rescheduled for UFC Vegas 97.

    Fletcher’s upcoming entry into the UFC has caught many fans off guard, especially given his recent loss to Team Grasso’s Kaan Ofli on The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) season 32. Despite the setback, it’s clear the UFC sees untapped potential in the Team Shevchenko standout, granting him this golden opportunity to prove himself on the big stage.

    Fletcher Admits He Hasn’t Kept In Touch With Shevchenko After TUF

    During a recent interview with Inside Fighting, Fletcher opened up about his journey on TUF 32. The UFC newcomer shared that the experience allowed him to connect with former champions like Cody Garbrandt and Aljamain Sterling, as well as fighters like Diego Lopes, whom he had previously only seen on screen.

    “Diego’s a guy who I look up to, and he’s a very exciting player,” Fletcher said. “Obviously, he’s pretty new on the scene himself, but I like the splash that he’s made. There’s been another one also, Cody Garbrandt, because sort of early in my career when he was on his tear, I really looked up to him—he was one of my favorite fighters. There’s been so many, to be honest. Aljamain Sterling, another cool dude who I’ve spoken to a couple of times.”

    Fletcher went on to mention that, despite having a strong rapport with coach Shevchenko, he hasn’t been in touch with “Bullet” since the show wrapped up. He attributed this to her focus on preparing for her trilogy bout against flyweight champion Alexa Grasso in the co-main event of UFC 306, set to take place next weekend.

    “I haven’t spoken to Valentina since the show, to be honest. We had a good relationship on the show—she was cool and everything—but I just haven’t really [talked to her]. That’s not somebody I’ve stayed in touch with afterward. She’s obviously got her own stuff going on, a big fight coming up, and also the guy I’m fighting went out to Tiger [Muay Thai Gym] to prepare for this fight, so I don’t know if maybe there’s a bit of favoritism there, perhaps.”

    Not only did Fletcher lose his TUF fight, but he also faced a devastating setback with a serious injury. Early in the first round, he broke his fibula, robbing him of the chance to fully display his skills. Despite this, Fletcher’s grit was undeniable as he battled through the entire bout, pushing it to a decision while fighting on a broken leg.

    Fletcher built his entire professional MMA career under the European promotion Cage Warriors, where he holds an 8-1 record. His sole career defeat came at the hands of Dominique Wooding in September 2021.

  • Conor McGregor Sets Sights On Irish Presidency: ‘I Am The Only Logical Choice’

    Conor McGregor Sets Sights On Irish Presidency: ‘I Am The Only Logical Choice’

    Conor McGregor once again reignited his ambition to pursue the Irish presidency.

    McGregor’s potential dive into the political arena gained traction after he voiced his confidence in stepping into a position of power in Ireland. His remarks followed accusations against Irish authorities for unfairly using him as a “scapegoat” in the wake of last November’s riots in Dublin.

    The former two-division UFC champion claimed that the government sought to divert attention from a stabbing attack, which sparked anti-immigrant protests and widespread chaos in the nation’s capital last year.

    At the time, “The Notorious” unleashed a flurry of tweets, fiercely criticizing Ireland’s immigration policies and national security concerns. In one post, McGregor drew a sharp contrast between his youthful stance and that of other presidential hopefuls, remarking that figures like former Sinn FĂ©in leader Gerry Adams and ex-prime ministers Bertie Ahern and Enda Kenny were bound by “unbreakable ties” to their party’s political agendas.

    The president of Ireland is a directly elected head of state with a seven-year term, wielding powers akin to those of the American president, particularly in matters of signing or vetoing new legislation. Meanwhile, the prime minister, known as the Taoiseach, leads the majority party in parliament and is responsible for proposing and shaping the nation’s laws.

    McGregor Shares His Agenda For Irish Presidency

    McGregor seems to be positioning himself as a contender for Ireland’s 2025 presidential race, boldly declaring that he’s the most qualified candidate to lead his fellow countrymen.

    On Thursday, “The Notorious” took to X with a lengthy statement outlining his political ambitions and detailing the actions he would take if entrusted with the office.

    “As President, I hold the power to summon the DĂĄil [Éireann] as well as dissolve it,” McGregor tweeted. “So, as I said before, I would have all the answers the people of Ireland seek from these thieves of the working man, these disrupters of the family unit, these destructors of small businesses, and on and on and on! These charlatans, in their positions of power, would be summoned to answer the people of Ireland, and I would have it done by the end of the day. Or I would be left with no choice but to dissolve the DĂĄil entirely.”

    “Stop the train until. The people of Ireland deserve the answers they seek. Point blank. This would be my power as President. I know very well. Ireland needs an active president wholly employed by the people of Ireland. It is me. I am the only logical choice. 2025 is upcoming
”

    McGregor’s last appearance in the Octagon dates back to UFC 264 in July 2021, where he suffered brutal fractures in his left leg during his trilogy fight against Dustin Poirier. Since that setback, the former UFC lightweight champion has shifted his focus to various ventures, including his Hollywood debut in the remake of Roadhouse, starring alongside Jake Gyllenhaal.

    “The Notorious” was set for a much-anticipated return to the Octagon in a showdown against Michael Chandler at UFC 303 this past June. However, just two weeks before the scheduled bout, McGregor was forced to withdraw due to an injury. He has since vowed to make his comeback later this year, though the UFC has yet to make any official announcement.

  • Former Champ Cautions Alex Pereira: Don’t Overlook ‘Kickboxer Killer’ Khalil Rountree

    Former Champ Cautions Alex Pereira: Don’t Overlook ‘Kickboxer Killer’ Khalil Rountree

    Michael Bisping recently warned Alex Pereira, urging him not to underestimate the formidable threat that Khalil Rountree brings to their upcoming clash.

    “Poatan” is preparing for his third light heavyweight title defense in 2024, as he is set to square off against Rountree in the main event of UFC 307, scheduled for October 5 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    Pereira has been an indomitable force since storming into the 205-pound division, kicking things off with a decisive win over Jan Blachowicz at UFC 291. His meteoric rise continued as he claimed the vacant light heavyweight title with a dominant victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295.

    From there, the Brazilian striking phenom wasted no time solidifying his reign, successfully defending his belt twice in just two months. His most recent triumph came with a second-round knockout of Prochazka in their rematch at UFC 303.

    As for Rountree, many have raised concerns about the fight, citing “The War Horse’s” suspension for the consumption of the banned substance Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is set to end on September 18. Meanwhile, others contend that Magomed Ankalaev would have been a more deserving challenger for Pereira’s title.

    However, “The Count” believes that Rountree possesses the complete arsenal needed to threaten Pereira’s striking-centric style…

    Bisping Uncertain About Pereira’s Chances Facing Rountree

    In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Bisping weighed in on ‘Poatan’s’ callout of UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. The UFC Hall of Famer was quick to point out that Pereira has a more immediate challenge looming in the form of Rountree, one he can’t afford to overlook.

    “He’s the light heavyweight champion of the world,” Bisping said. “Being the light heavyweight champion comes with some responsibility. Now, as I said, first and foremost, number one, he’s got people to fight already—he’s fighting Khalil Rountree. You cannot look past killer Khalil. He’s the kickboxer killer, he really is. Think about this: he beat Gokhan Saki, a very good kickboxer who transitioned to MMA, and Dustin Jacoby, another excellent Glory kickboxer who moved to MMA. Could he do the same to Alex Pereira? I don’t know—it’s a tough ask.

    Widely regarded as one of the most dangerous strikers in MMA, Pereira’s legacy as a two-division Glory Kickboxing champion strikes fear into opponents. While conventional wisdom suggests that wrestling is the blueprint to topple him, Rountree sees things differently.

    Though Rountree doesn’t dispute the wrestling strategy, he’s made it clear that he wants to keep the fight standing and deliver a striking masterclass.

  • ONE Muay Thai Champion Jonathan Haggerty Lists Best Strikers In The UFC

    ONE Muay Thai Champion Jonathan Haggerty Lists Best Strikers In The UFC

    Jonathan Haggerty recently revealed his picks for who he believes are the top strikers in the UFC.

    Over the course of UFC history, a multitude of elite strikers have etched their names into the sport’s legacy. Icons like Anderson Silva, Mirko “Cro Cop” Filipović, and JosĂ© Aldo not only defined their eras but revolutionized the art of striking.

    However, the current generation of fighters has evolved alongside the ever-changing landscape of mixed martial arts, showcasing even more refined and diverse striking repertoires.

    As a reigning ONE bantamweight Muay Thai and kickboxing champion with elite striking prowess, it’s no surprise that Haggerty keeps a close eye on the sport. His expertise gives him a sharp understanding of the top fighters in the world’s premier MMA organization, making his opinions on striking particularly insightful…

    Haggerty Says Strikers Are Best Suited For UFC Championships

    During a recent interview with talkSPORT MMA, Haggerty was asked to share who he believes are the most elite strikers to ever grace the UFC Octagon. “The General” wasted no time in naming former middleweight king Israel Adesanya, former strawweight champion Joanna Jędrzejczyk, and former flyweight titleholder Valentina Shevchenko, alongside a list of other accomplished UFC champions.

    “I think the strikers are mainly all the champions,” Haggerty said. “I quite like Adesanya. Joanna Jędrzejczyk, she was great. Valentina Shevchenko, she was an amazing fighter. Alex Pereira, you know, he’s very lethal. I think being a stand-up striker, all the fights start on their feet, so we get the head start, really. I think Sean O’Malley’s there as well.”

    He also went on to say that if he had to choose one MMA champion across promotions who he’d like to challenge for the belt, it would be UFC’s bantamweight king O’Malley.

    However, “The General” did mention that he is very happy at ONE Championship, where he is preparing to defend his bantamweight Muay Thai title in a highly anticipated showdown against the current ONE flyweight kickboxing champion, Superlek, in the main event of ONE 168: Denver this weekend.

    Haggerty is riding the momentum of an impressive seven-fight win streak, with his only two setbacks in his ONE Championship career coming at the hands of the formidable Rodtang Jitmuangnon.

  • Gilbert Burns Clarifies Sean Brady’s BJJ Black Belt Credentials

    Gilbert Burns Clarifies Sean Brady’s BJJ Black Belt Credentials

    Gilbert Burns recently shared his thoughts on whether Sean Brady poses a legitimate threat on the ground, given his black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

    Burns is gearing up to face Brady in a crucial welterweight showdown, set to headline this weekend’s Fight Night event at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    “Durinho” has been absent from the Octagon since suffering a third-round knockout at the hands of Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 299 this past March. That setback came just two months after another tough loss, when the 38-year-old Brazilian veteran was defeated by newly crowned welterweight champion Belal Muhammad at UFC 288 in May 2023.

    Meanwhile, Brady is stepping into uncharted territory with his first-ever five-round bout under the UFC banner. The 31-year-old American has only gone past the third round once in his career. In his last appearance, he secured an impressive submission victory over seasoned veteran Kelvin Gastelum at UFC Fight Night Austin last December, bouncing back from the first setback of his career against Muhammad at UFC 280 in October 2022.

    Burns is a formidable force on the mat, a dangerous grappler who has dominated since his return to the welterweight division in 2019, racking up the second-highest number of takedowns in the division. On the other hand, Brady is no slouch on the ground either, bringing his own savage submission game to the table, potentially making their matchup a fascinating chess contest of technical prowess and ground control…

    Burns Holds Brady’s Grappling Skills In High Regard

    During a recent interview with MMA journalist Kevin Iole, Burns was asked to weigh in on just how dangerous he believes Brady’s grappling game truly is. As a decorated BJJ black belt world champion himself, ‘Durinho’ acknowledged that his opponent is far from an ordinary grappler, noting that Brady trains under the tutelage of BJJ legend Daniel Gracie.

    “He’s legit. His coach is Daniel Gracie, you know. Daniel Gracie grew up with Renzo [Gracie], so he’s very, very good,” Burns said. “Daniel Gracie saw Brady since he was a kid, so he’s a legit black belt.”

    Burns went on to highlight Brady’s impressive grappling credentials, pointing out that Brady managed to defeat ADCC submission champion Craig Jones—an accomplishment that Burns himself couldn’t achieve.

    “He beat Craig Jones even when [the bout] was set with no leg locks. When I lost to Craig Jones, it was with leg locks—he went quick on my leg. So, Sean Brady beat him under no leg lock rules. Yeah, he’s a great fighter.”

    “Durinho” is currently navigating the first back-to-back losses of his career, and he’s well aware that the outcome on Saturday night carries critical weight if he hopes to climb back into title contention.

  • Michael ‘Venom’ Page Wants MMA Judging To Stop Fighters From ‘Sneaking’ Wins

    Michael ‘Venom’ Page Wants MMA Judging To Stop Fighters From ‘Sneaking’ Wins

    Michael Page recently voiced his opinion that MMA judges should deliver verdicts in a manner that discourages fighters from narrowly securing victories by relying on a single fighting style.

    MMA judging has been a hotly debated topic within the sport for years. Many argue that certain cage-side judges occasionally stray from the sport’s established guidelines, possess limited expertise, and sometimes deliver decisions that raise eyebrows or award points that are hard to justify.

    Accusations of an inconsistent scoring system and insufficient quality control in the training and selection of judges fuel the ongoing controversy, making it a persistent source of contention at numerous events. And “Venom” is pushing for a reform in how judges evaluate and score fights…

    Page on MMA judging: ‘There’s So Many Wayward Decisions’

    During a recent Q&A video on his YouTube channel, Page delved into the changes he believes are necessary in the MMA world, touching on topics like judging, weight cuts, and more. The 37-year-old striking sensation highlighted the recent incident involving judge Howie Booth, who was removed from his position following a controversial scorecard in the heavyweight clash between Tai Tuivasa and Jairzinho Rozenstruik at UFC 305.

    “The game is slowly changing, and there have been some adjustments,” Page said. “So with the judges, I feel like we’ve had so many just random scores to the point where, even the other day, a judge got told to bounce. Yeah, so it means that there are these guys—I don’t know what’s going on—are they getting tired, or do they need to change judges like every other fight or something? But there are so many wayward decisions sometimes, so something is going wrong.”

    “Venom” also stressed the importance of revamping the scoring system, calling for judges to favor fighters who actively seek to finish their opponents and take risks, rather than those who attempt to secure a victory by relying solely on one fighting style.

    “I think the rule set is changing a bit to accommodate more people who want to finish a fight. I’ve always said, if it’s wrestler versus striker, I don’t mind the wrestling if you wrestle with the intention of trying to finish the fight—whether it be from a submission or, you know, ground and pound, trying to take someone’s head off. But if you’re wrestling just to survive and sneak a win, I don’t believe you should be allowed to win a fight. There should be a lot more intention in what you’re doing.”

    Page had a turbulent introduction to the Octagon, earning a win against Kevin Holland in his UFC 299 debut, but later suffering a tightly contested decision loss to Ian Garry at UFC 303. As of now, there’s no official word on when “Venom” will make his return to the cage.

  • DC’s Coach Disputes Jon Jones GOAT Talk With One Name: Lance Armstrong

    DC’s Coach Disputes Jon Jones GOAT Talk With One Name: Lance Armstrong

    Daniel Cormier’s coach, Javier Mendez, recently stirred the debate around Jon Jones’ GOAT status by invoking a comparison to Lance Armstrong.

    In recent months, the conversation surrounding the pound-for-pound greatest MMA fighter of all time has intensified, with Jones’ name consistently leading the discussion. UFC CEO Dana White has been especially vocal, passionately championing the reigning heavyweight kingpin’s place at the top of the all-time rankings.

    Jones etched his name in the history books as the youngest champion in UFC history, seizing the light heavyweight title at just 23 years old with a commanding victory over Mauricio Rua at UFC 128 in March 2011. Since that momentous win, “Bones” has stepped into the octagon for 15 title fights, emerging victorious in every single one, save for the no-contest in his rematch against Cormier at UFC 214 in July 2017.

    Jones’ resume is arguably unmatched in the sport, but his illustrious career has been marred by a series of high-profile scandals, most notably his positive test for the banned substance turinabol. This tainted legacy is precisely why Mendez believes that, despite his achievements, Jones is unworthy of the GOAT status…

    Mendez Asserts Jones’ Doping Test ‘Disqualifies’ Him From GOAT Status

    During a recent episode of the Javier Mendez Podcast, the renowned MMA coach weighed in on White’s persistent endorsement of Jones as the GOAT. Mendez drew a striking comparison between “Bones” and legendary cyclist Armstrong, who famously won the Tour de France a record seven times, only to have all his titles and accolades stripped away following his admission to using performance-enhancing drugs.

    “Dana is still insisting that Jon Jones is pound-for-pound #1,” Mendez said. “He has his valid points, but my valid point is I just want to say one thing: Lance Armstrong. Lance Armstrong won the Tour de France how many times, and basically, he got all those titles taken away from him because of one thing—doping. And even though it was many years later that they caught him, he lost all the Tour de France titles. Well, it’s been a fact, it’s been proven, Jon Jones has been caught doping. So, I’m sorry, I think that disqualifies him just based on that alone.”

    “Bones” has been inactive since his move to the heavyweight division in March 2023, where he made a triumphant debut by securing a first-round submission victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 to clinch the vacant title.

    Jones was initially set to make his first title defense against former champion Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 in November 2023. However, just days before the fight, the heavyweight champ had to pull out due to a shoulder injury. Now, the highly anticipated clash between the two is rumored to headline UFC 309, scheduled for November.

  • Tyron Woodley Reveals How Nate Diaz Backtrack Led To Dana White Feud

    Tyron Woodley Reveals How Nate Diaz Backtrack Led To Dana White Feud

    Tyron Woodley recently opened up about how the fallout over a proposed fight with Nate Diaz sparked tension between him and Dana White.

    “The Chosen One” has always had a rocky relationship with the UFC CEO, with both men frequently exchanging sharp words about one another. Following Woodley’s one-sided defeat to Kamaru Usman at UFC 235, White didn’t hold back, openly criticizing the 42-year-old former welterweight champion for his fighting style.

    White was one of Woodley’s harshest critics, even after his victory over Demian Maia at UFC 214. The UFC head honcho chastised the Missouri native for what he perceived as a lackluster striking performance, ultimately costing Woodley the chance to fight Georges St-Pierre. In response, Woodley publicly fired back at White, demanding a public apology for the harsh treatment.

    The tension between the two became even more evident when White publicly dismissed any rumors that a Woodley vs. Nate Diaz fight was ever planned for UFC 219 in December 2017—a matchup that “The Chosen One” had previously claimed was on the table…

    Woodley Opens Up About Diss Track On White After Diaz Fight Fallout: ‘That Was My Way Of Expressing Myself’

    During a recent appearance on the Overdogs Podcast, Woodley shared the backstory of his frustration. After his victory over Maia, White and Hunter Campbell approached him with the idea of defending his title against Diaz, who was then competing in the lightweight division. Despite suffering a torn labrum in the previous bout, Woodley agreed to the challenge.

    However, when Woodley publicly announced the fight in an interview, he was met with a fiery denial from White, who swiftly dismissed the matchup. The UFC CEO’s abrupt U-turn left “The Chosen One” so infuriated that he chaneled his anger into creating a diss track aimed at White.

    “Why the f**k would you make me look stupid on air when you just asked me to fight this dude?” Woodley said. “Then I was so mad, but I recognized I don’t own the UFC—this is their promotion, they do what the f**k they want to do. I’m thankful and I’m blessed that I can go out there and show I’m the best. So, I couldn’t beat his a, but I surely went into the studio and made a song called ‘I Beat Your A**.’ When I made that song ‘I Beat Your A**,’ the story behind that song—it was really for Dana because I wanted to beat his a**.”

    “I wrote that song because that was my way of expressing myself. At that time, when I tried to speak on it, Fox would cut me off—they cut my microphone. They told me, ‘You can’t speak on this.’ Because after he made that statement, I was prepared to go back to work and defend my motherf**kin’ self.”

    Woodley parted ways with the UFC in March 2021 after enduring a tough stretch of four consecutive losses from 2019 to 2021. Before this challenging period, he was riding high on a seven-fight unbeaten streak, during which he successfully defended the welterweight title four times.

  • Torrez Finney Shares How Third Contender Series Call-Up Stopped Him From Signing Elsewhere

    Torrez Finney Shares How Third Contender Series Call-Up Stopped Him From Signing Elsewhere

    Torrez Finney recently disclosed that his third opportunity to join the UFC via Dana White’s Contender Series ultimately stopped him from committing to another promotion.

    Despite securing a unanimous decision victory over Cam Rowston at DWCS 68 on August 20, Finney found himself overlooked for a UFC contract by Dana White for the second time. The UFC CEO harshly criticized “The Punisher” in a segment that swiftly made headlines for its blunt severity.

    Additionally, White expressed disappointment that Finney had only taken one fight since his initial DWCS appearance last October, where he secured a second-round submission against Yuri Panferov. However, the door hasn’t closed on Finney just yet. He’s set to make his comeback on October 1, facing Abdellah Er-Remy in episode eight.

    Finney will have a rare third chance to clinch a UFC contract—an opportunity granted to only a select few fighters. However, this chance comes at a cost, as he had to forgo a more lucrative deal to chase his UFC dreams…

    Finney On His Third DWCS Spot: ‘I Didn’t Think Twice About It Too Much’

    During a recent interview with Inside Fighting, Finney revealed that just before receiving a call from his manager for the DWCS fight, he was on the verge of finalizing a deal with another promotion. However, he decided to walk away from it, choosing instead to chase his ultimate dream of fighting in the UFC.

    “Not going to point them out, but I was actually almost in the process of signing with another promotion,” Finney said. “Big deal, great pay. I was actually getting close to making that announcement, and then I get a phone call from Malki [Kawa] from First Round Management, and he’s like, ‘Have you signed that contract yet?’ I said, ‘No, not yet.’ He’s like, ‘Well, hold on,’ and I was like, ‘All right, what is it?’ ‘Cause there’s only one thing, there could only be one possible promotion that could hold me off from that. And I said, ‘What?’ And there was the opportunity. He told me all the details behind it, and I talked with my team. You know, I’m gonna be honest, I was happy.”

    “The Punisher” went on to express his excitement for the upcoming fight but admitted that his family is no longer supporting his pursuit of the UFC dream, especially after White’s harsh criticism.

    “My team was behind me, but my family—they are not the biggest Dana White fans—and they were no longer on the side of me ever pursuing the UFC. Necessarily, like, obviously, they would support wherever I fight, but with the UFC, it was like, ‘Man, forget that,’ based off his comments. But I didn’t feel that way; I never have any personal issues with Dana
 If you look at the opportunity, based off of what you see—an opportunity to be the first guy ever to go 3-0 in the Contender Series—the story, it hit so big. Right now, I’m 25, so let’s go for it. I didn’t think twice about it.”

    Finney boasts an undefeated 9-0 record in his MMA career, with seven of those victories coming by way of stoppage. He made his professional debut in February 2022, taking on Wesley McCracken under the Conflict MMA banner.

  • ‘Rampage’ Jackson On How He Smoked Out Jon Jones’ Alleged Spy In His Camp With Injury Lie

    ‘Rampage’ Jackson On How He Smoked Out Jon Jones’ Alleged Spy In His Camp With Injury Lie

    Quinton Jackson recently shared how he cleverly exposed a spy allegedly sent by Jon Jones to his fight camp by faking an injury to flush them out.

    Jackson took on Jones for the light heavyweight title at UFC 135 in September 2011, but his efforts fell short as he was submitted in the fourth round. Despite being thoroughly outmatched in the bout, “Rampage” later criticized Jones for his fighting style and his tendency to extend his fingers during exchanges, a habit that has unintentionally resulted in eye pokes for several of his opponents.

    However, in the lead-up to their fight, Jackson stirred the MMA world by claiming that “Bones” had planted a spy in his camp to gather intel on him. To test his suspicions, Jackson fabricated a story and let the word out that he had a hand injury…

    Jackson on Jones Reportedly Planting A Spy: ‘It was Somebody That Worked For MusclePharm’

    During a recent episode of his JAXXON Podcast, “Rampage” revealed that Jones was allegedly in contact with someone from his supplement sponsor, MusclePharm, to spy on his fight camp. The former UFC light heavyweight champion recounted how he began to suspect that his every move was being monitored, so he devised a plan.

    He faked an injury and shared the news only with his Team Wolfslair, yet somehow, the information still leaked to the public.

    “He had a spy in my camp; it was somebody that worked for MusclePharm that was cool with him,” Jackson said. “He would come there and watch me train and stuff, and I don’t know—I can’t remember how I found out that somebody was watching me. Maybe some sh*t he was saying online, so I faked the injury, and I didn’t tell anybody. I told my tight team, ‘I think Jon Jones has a spy in my camp,’ so I faked the injury and didn’t say anything, and then it got out in the press.”

    In an interview with Yahoo! Sports in August 2011, Jackson revealed that just hours after planting the fake news, his manager received a call from then-UFC matchmaker Joe Silva, who was eager to find out what had happened.

    As Jackson anticipated, the response was swift and telling: Silva mentioned that Jones’ manager, Malki Kawa, had reached out. Although Jackson has never produced any concrete evidence to support his claims, “Bones” once playfully admitted to planting a spy in his opponent’s camp.

  • Rising UK Contender Lerone Murphy Feels Jon Jones ‘Deserves’ Special Treatment To Avoid Tom Aspinall Fight

    Rising UK Contender Lerone Murphy Feels Jon Jones ‘Deserves’ Special Treatment To Avoid Tom Aspinall Fight

    Lerone Murphy recently suggested that Jon Jones warrants special deference to avoid a potential showdown with Tom Aspinall.

    Aspinall’s patience appears to be wearing thin as he persistently calls out Jones for a UFC heavyweight title unification bout. The interim heavyweight champion has been unreservedly articulate about his eagerness to challenge “Bones” ever since he claimed the title at UFC 295 last November.

    However, “Bones” has shown little interest in the much-anticipated matchup with Aspinall. Instead of considering a showdown, the reigning heavyweight champion has made it clear that his focus is firmly on fighting Stipe Miocic, a bout expected to headline UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden this November.

    Jones has often teased the possibility of retiring after conquering an esteemed former heavyweight champion like Miocic, which would further solidify his status as the GOAT. Meanwhile, “The Miracle” believes that with everything Jones has already accomplished in the sport, there’s no need for him to prove himself against Aspinall…

    Murphy Thinks Jones Enjoys Perks Uncommon To Other Fighters

    During a recent interview with Title Sports Network, Murphy weighed in on the escalating tension between Jones and Aspinall, noting that things have taken a turn for the worse. The undefeated featherweight contender remarked that Aspinall should have taken a tougher stance from the start. However, he doubts his fellow countryman will secure the fight he’s after, as Jones enjoys certain well-earned privileges from the UFC.

    “I think he should have been doing that from the get-go,” Murphy said. “Obviously, he’s being respectful of the greatest of all time, and I feel like he should be doing that, and it’s good, but I don’t think he’s going to get the fight. But yeah, it’s good for him to do. I feel like Jon’s getting the treatment he deserves, though, but he’s getting a different treatment than everybody else because usually if there’s an interim champion, you have to come back and fight the champion.”

    Jones last graced the Octagon in March 2023, where he claimed the heavyweight title with a decisive submission victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285. He was set to defend his title for the first time against Miocic at UFC 295, but “Bones” was compelled to withdraw just two weeks before the fight due to a severe pectoral injury.

  • UFC Veteran Joe Lauzon On Limbo Status: ‘I Don’t Exactly Know A Valid Way To Get Out Of The Contract
’

    UFC Veteran Joe Lauzon On Limbo Status: ‘I Don’t Exactly Know A Valid Way To Get Out Of The Contract
’

    Joe Lauzon recently opened up about the lingering uncertainty surrounding his UFC career.

    Lauzon is a name that might not resonate with newer MMA fans, but he was once celebrated as one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC lightweight division of his era, holding the third-highest number of post-fight bonuses in the company’s history.

    “J-Lau” has been absent from the Octagon since delivering a first-round TKO victory over Jonathan Pearce in October 2019, a win that ended his three-fight losing streak. In August 2023, Lauzon lobbied for a spot at UFC 292 in Boston, but the promotion declined, signaling that his services were no longer required. Even UFC CEO Dana White publicly urged him to hang up his gloves for good.

    The 40-year-old Massachusetts native has considered himself semi-retired during his five-year hiatus, admitting that he’d only return to active competition if a truly compelling matchup came his way. However, with no such opportunity on the horizon, Lauzon now finds himself at a crossroads


    Lauzon Still Training While Not Actively Seeking A Fight

    During a recent interview with MMAFightingonSBN, Lauzon opened up about his time away from the Octagon. The seasoned UFC lightweight admitted he’s unsure about the future of his career, yet he remains committed to training regularly despite not actively pursuing any fight opportunities.

    “I’ve been focused more on my gym than I have on training,” Lauzon said. “Everyone’s always asking, like, ‘Oh, are you going to fight again? Are you not going to fight again?’ and my answer is always kind of ambiguous—I don’t really know. I wanted to fight Chase Hooper last summer when they were going to come to Boston, but that didn’t work out; they didn’t want to do that. So, I don’t know. If they came to me with a fight and a matchup that I liked
 I’m still training all the time, but I’m not pressing the issue.”

    “J-Lau” also revealed that, despite his inactivity, he’s still under contract with the UFC. However, he admitted that he’s unclear on how to exit the agreement, especially since he’s not actively pursuing a fight.

    “I don’t exactly know a valid way to get out of the contract—not that I’m trying to—but I think that there’s a bunch of reasons it can kind of freeze or get prolonged, right? So I think it’s if you turn down a fight, if you are injured, or if you retire—you know, those things all prolong and extend it, right? So, from my perspective, I’m not really trying to fight anywhere else, so I don’t really care. I’m still in the USADA pool, which is not even annoying, but a little bit annoying.”

    “I still have USADA—or not USADA, but Drug Free Sport—show up, and they test me every once in a while. But otherwise, I mean, I think it’s just extended perpetually, like until whenever. I’m in a weird spot where I don’t really care about actively fighting.

    Lauzon stands as the longest-serving fighter on the current UFC roster. Since his promotional debut at UFC 63 back in 2006, he has stepped into the Octagon 27 times.

    “J-Lau” has faced numerous hurdles in securing fights over the years. He was set to clash with Donald Cerrone on three separate occasions, but the bout was postponed once and canceled twice, all before “Cowboy” eventually called it a career.