MMA News

Author: Pranav Pandey

  • Who Is Salahdine Parnasse? Ex-KSW Double Champ Now Fighting On Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Card

    Who Is Salahdine Parnasse? Ex-KSW Double Champ Now Fighting On Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Card

    Salahdine Parnasse has quietly built one of the most impressive résumés in modern MMA, even if his name hasn’t fully crossed into mainstream conversation yet.

    That could change this weekend. The 28-year-old will take on Kenny Cross at the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card on May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, marking his first appearance on a major U.S. platform. He enters the bout with a 22-2 professional record and growing recognition as one of the top lightweights competing outside the UFC.

    A Champion Built In Europe

    “Super Prodige” became a headline act under the KSW banner, a promotion widely viewed as Europe’s MMA powerhouse. During his time there, he didn’t just win titles; he held two at once, becoming a simultaneous champion at featherweight and lightweight.

    His resume includes victories over seasoned opponents such as Marcin Held, Marian Ziółkowski, Wilson Varela, and Daniel Torres. Earlier this year, he reinforced his dominance by stopping Held in the second round to retain his lightweight belt at KSW 114.

    Why UFC Move Never Happened

    Despite his success, “Super Prodige” has yet to sign with the UFC, and that decision has been intentional. Financially, he was already in a strong position in KSW, reportedly earning six-figure purses.

    When offers came from the UFC, they reportedly fell well below what he was making in Europe. With that gap, there was little incentive to leave a situation where he was both well-paid and firmly established.

    Skill Set That Stands Out

    Parnasse brings a complete toolkit into the cage. Operating out of a southpaw stance, he blends sharp striking with controlled movement, while also posing a threat on the ground with his submission game.

    His numbers reflect that balance, with seven knockouts and seven submissions across 22 wins, underlining his ability to finish fights in multiple ways.

    Defining Moment In The U.S.

    Now, “Super Prodige” faces Kenny Cross in a bout that could change everything. Competing in front of a global audience on Netflix, Parnasse has the opportunity to showcase his talent to a much wider fan base.

    A standout performance would not only elevate his profile but could also reignite talks about a long-awaited move to the UFC, this time on his own terms.

  • Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven Sparks Massive Title Controversy Before May 23 Showdown

    Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven Sparks Massive Title Controversy Before May 23 Showdown

    Oleksandr Usyk is set to defend his heavyweight titles against Rico Verhoeven on May 23 at the Pyramids of Giza in Egypt, but the championship picture surrounding the fight is anything but straightforward.

    The undefeated Ukrainian enters the bout holding the WBC, WBA, and IBF titles after previously relinquishing the WBO belt. However, due to the unique nature of this crossover clash, each sanctioning body has taken a different stance on what is actually at stake.

    Confusion Surrounds Usyk’s Titles Ahead Of Verhoeven Fight

    Out of Usyk’s three remaining belts, only the WBC title will officially be on the line for Verhoeven. The governing body approved the fight as a voluntary defense, allowing the champion to face a non-traditional opponent instead of his mandatory challenger.

    That decision has sparked backlash, especially considering Verhoeven’s limited boxing experience. Still, the WBC justified its stance by pointing to Usyk’s activity level and the history of fighters transitioning from other combat sports into boxing.

    The WBA, meanwhile, has taken a more unusual position. While “The Cat” will enter the fight recognized as champion, Verhoeven will not be eligible to win the belt even if he pulls off a massive upset. Instead, a victory would only earn him a place in the rankings, with the organization set to review the title situation if Usyk loses.

    The IBF has also imposed strict conditions. If Usyk is defeated, the belt will be declared vacant immediately. If he wins, the sanctioning body will move forward with its mandatory title defense rotation.

    Mandatory Obligations And Growing Controversy

    The situation has drawn criticism across the boxing world, particularly because it delays a mandatory title defense against top contender Agit Kabayel. Promoter Frank Warren has already warned of potential legal action if the WBC fails to enforce that obligation after the fight.

    Despite the controversy, “The Cat” has remained firm in his decision, making it clear he wanted the freedom to choose this matchup. Now, with multiple titles governed under different rules for the same fight, the May 23 showdown has become one of the most unusual championship scenarios in recent boxing history.

  • Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Card Gets Elite Referee Crew For Top 3 Fights

    Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Card Gets Elite Referee Crew For Top 3 Fights

    Referee assignments have been finalized for the biggest fights on this weekend’s Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card, with several veteran officials set to oversee the action.

    The event takes place on Saturday, May 16, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, and streams live on Netflix. Headlining the card, Ronda Rousey faces Gina Carano in a historic featherweight bout marking both fighters’ long-awaited return to MMA.

    For the main event, legendary referee John McCarthy has been assigned to officiate the clash. Widely regarded as one of the most experienced officials in the sport, his involvement adds further weight to the high-profile matchup.

    In the co-main event, Nate Diaz squares off against Mike Perry, with Mike Beltran set to handle officiating duties. The bout brings together two of the sport’s most unpredictable personalities, both known for their durability and fan-friendly styles, making it one of the most anticipated fights on the card.

    Meanwhile, Francis Ngannou returns to MMA against Philipe Lins, with Herb Dean assigned to referee the contest. It marks Ngannou’s continued comeback following a difficult stretch that included a move into boxing and personal adversity outside the cage.

  • Sean O’Malley Blasts UFC Freedom 250 Fight Kits Ahead Of White House Clash – ‘Did They Go On Fiverr?’

    Sean O’Malley Blasts UFC Freedom 250 Fight Kits Ahead Of White House Clash – ‘Did They Go On Fiverr?’

    Sean O’Malley is never one to shy away from speaking his mind, and this time his target is the UFC’s newly unveiled fight kits for the upcoming White House card.

    Set to compete at UFC Freedom 250 on June 14 in Washington, D.C., O’Malley will face Aiemann Zahabi in a high-profile bantamweight clash. But ahead of the historic event, the former champion has taken issue with the gear he’s expected to wear.

    The promotion recently revealed special red, white, and blue themed kits designed for the event, complete with White House branding. While the concept leans heavily into the patriotic theme, “Suga” made it clear he’s not impressed with the execution.

    “I don’t know if I’m even supposed to say this, but they’re ugly,” O’Malley said on his YouTube channel. “Mine were ugly. I don’t like them.”

    Known for his colorful style and preference for standout looks, O’Malley also pointed out that the design doesn’t reflect his personality.

    “They’re not pink, which is fine… I’ll make my f*cking hair pink, whatever,” he said. “But I’m just like… did they go on Fiverr and say, ‘Hey, you know, we got these guys getting into a fight on the White House lawn? Can you just come up with something?’”

    Despite his criticism, O’Malley isn’t letting the wardrobe choice distract him from the fight itself. In fact, he believes the white shorts could add a different kind of visual impact once the action begins.

    “I do truly believe I’m gonna crack Aiemann,” O’Malley said. “I think I’m gonna beat the f*ck out of him… I’m excited for my white shorts to be red. Like, I want to see how red I can get my white shorts from his blood.”

    “Suga” enters the bout following a win over Song Yadong at UFC 324 in January, looking to build momentum after setbacks in his title pursuits.

  • UFC 328 Aftermath Sees Several Fighters Hit With Lengthy Medical Suspensions

    UFC 328 Aftermath Sees Several Fighters Hit With Lengthy Medical Suspensions

    UFC 328 delivered an action-packed night in Newark, but the aftermath shows just how much damage the fighters endured inside the cage.

    Following the May 9 event at Prudential Center, the New Jersey State Athletic Control Board issued a lengthy list of medical suspensions, with 11 fighters receiving indefinite suspensions pending medical clearance. The card was headlined by Sean Strickland reclaiming the title in a grueling split decision over Khamzat Chimaev, and both men were among those sidelined.

    Strickland was handed an indefinite suspension until his left hand is cleared by an orthopedist, along with a mandatory 45-day suspension and 30 days of no contact. “Borz” received a 45-day suspension with 30 days no contact.

    The co-main event fighters also did not escape unscathed. Joshua Van and Tatsuro Taira were both issued indefinite suspensions. “The Fearless” must receive clearance on his left hand, while Taira requires a CT scan after suffering a late stoppage loss. “The Best” also faces a 90-day suspension with 60 days no contact.

    Several other fighters across the card were also handed medical suspensions, highlighting the physical toll of the event.

    Full UFC 328 medical suspensions:

    • Sean Strickland: Indefinite (left hand), 45 days, 30 no contact
    • Khamzat Chimaev: 45 days, 30 no contact
    • Joshua Van: Indefinite (left hand), 30 days, 21 no contact
    • Tatsuro Taira: Indefinite (CT scan), 90 days, 60 no contact
    • Alexander Volkov: No suspension
    • Waldo Cortes-Acosta: 30 days, 15 no contact
    • Sean Brady: No suspension
    • Joaquin Buckley: 30 days, 21 no contact
    • King Green: No suspension
    • Jeremy Stephens: Indefinite (groin)
    • Ateba Gautier: No suspension
    • Ozzy Diaz: Indefinite (right eye), 60 days, 30 no contact
    • Yaroslav Amosov: No suspension
    • Joel Alvarez: No suspension
    • Grant Dawson: Indefinite (tibia), 30 days, 21 no contact
    • Mateusz Rebecki: Indefinite (orbit), 30 days, 15 no contact
    • Jim Miller: Indefinite (left hand), 30 days, 15 no contact
    • Jared Gordon: 30 days, 15 no contact
    • Roman Kopylov: 45 days, 30 no contact
    • Marco Tulio: Indefinite (foot/ankle), 45 days, 30 no contact
    • Pat Sabatini: No suspension
    • William Gomis: No suspension
    • Baysangur Susurkaev: Indefinite (hand/foot), 45 days, 30 no contact
    • Djorden Santos: 45 days, 30 no contact
    • Jose Ochoa: 30 days, 21 no contact
    • Clayton Carpenter: Indefinite (lower leg), 45 days, 30 no contact

    Notably, clearance from a medical professional can shorten these suspensions.

  • Francis Ngannou Admits He Wanted To Quit Fighting After 15-Month-Old Son’s Death

    Francis Ngannou Admits He Wanted To Quit Fighting After 15-Month-Old Son’s Death

    Francis Ngannou is set to return to action this weekend, but this fight carries a far deeper meaning than anything inside the cage.

    “The Predator” faces Philipe Lins on the undercard of Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, streaming live on Netflix. It marks just his second outing since the devastating loss of his 15-month-old son, Kobe, in 2024.

    Speaking during an emotional interview with Daniel Cormier, the 39-year-old Cameroonian admitted the tragedy had completely altered his outlook on life.

    “You know, it is something you’d never forget, but it definitely brings you to see life in a different way,” Ngannou said. “It was a trigger to find out that I’m still sensitive and I’m still human.”

    The loss left him questioning everything, including his fighting career.

    “I did not want to keep fighting; there was no reason,” he said. “What’s the point of fighting if I cannot fight for my son?”

    “The Predator” also revealed how deeply the trauma continues to affect him, recalling a frightening moment involving his daughter.

    “I remember a few months after my son passed away, I was with my daughter and she had a cold,” Ngannou said. “At some point she stopped reacting and was getting fatigued, and it was the biggest fear of my life. It was a normal reaction for my kid, but for me, I was traumatized.”

    The former UFC heavyweight champion added that his final memory of his son still weighs heavily on him.

    “I think about the last time I saw him… he was crying because he did not want me to leave,” Ngannou said. “Those moments you take for granted.”

  • UFC Legends And Top Analysts Join Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Broadcast Team

    UFC Legends And Top Analysts Join Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Broadcast Team

    Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano is already one of the most talked-about combat sports events of the year, and now the promotion has added even more star power with the official reveal of its broadcast team.

    Set to take place this Saturday at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, the event will stream exclusively on Netflix under the Most Valuable Promotions banner. The card is headlined by the long-awaited return of Ronda Rousey against Gina Carano in a five-round featherweight showdown.

    For the live broadcast, veteran commentator Mauro Ranallo will handle play-by-play duties, joined cageside by former UFC fighter Kenny Florian as the color analyst. Sibley Scoles will serve as the roving reporter throughout the night, while Sean Wheelock takes on rules and scoring analysis. The in-cage announcing responsibilities will be handled by Kody Mommaerts.

    The desk coverage will be anchored by Elle Duncan, alongside former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley and veteran journalist Ariel Helwani. The panel is expected to feature several high-profile guest appearances during the broadcast, including former UFC champions Jon Jones and Cain Velasquez, as well as Cat Zingano.

    The event marks a significant moment for Netflix as it continues expanding into live combat sports, with this being one of its most high-profile MMA broadcasts to date.

    Fight week coverage will also include multiple live elements. Open workouts are scheduled for Wednesday, followed by the official press conference on Thursday hosted by Helwani. Ceremonial weigh-ins will take place on Friday, with analysis from Woodley and Florian alongside additional commentary from Velasquez.

    Fans will be able to tune in early, with the preliminary card beginning at 6 p.m. ET on MVP’s YouTube channel, while the main card kicks off at 9 p.m. ET exclusively on Netflix.

  • When Was Gina Carano’s Last MMA Fight? Taking A Closer Look At “Conviction’s” Record Ahead Of May 16 Return Against Ronda Rousey

    When Was Gina Carano’s Last MMA Fight? Taking A Closer Look At “Conviction’s” Record Ahead Of May 16 Return Against Ronda Rousey

    Gina Carano was one of the original crossover stars in women’s mixed martial arts, long before the UFC even introduced female divisions. With her charisma, striking style, and mainstream popularity, Carano helped push women’s MMA into the spotlight during the late 2000s and became one of the sport’s first recognizable female stars.

    Now, nearly 17 years after stepping away from professional competition, Carano is slated to return to the cage against Ronda Rousey on May 16 at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. The bout headlines a Most Valuable Promotions card streaming live on Netflix and marks one of the most unexpected comeback fights in recent MMA history.

    With “Conviction” finally making her long-awaited return, many fans have started revisiting her MMA career and asking one major question: when exactly did she last compete, and what happened in that fight? Let’s take a closer look.

    Image: @MostVpromotions/X

    Gina Carano’s Last MMA Fight

    Carano’s final MMA appearance took place at Strikeforce: Carano vs. Cyborg on August 15, 2009, in San Jose, California. She faced Cris Cyborg for the inaugural Strikeforce women’s featherweight championship in what became the first women’s bout to headline a major MMA event.

    The fight ended late in the opening round after Cyborg overwhelmed “Conviction” with strikes, earning a TKO stoppage at 4:59 of Round 1. That defeat marked the lone loss of Carano’s professional MMA career.

    Following the fight, the 44-year-old Texan stepped away from MMA and transitioned into acting, eventually appearing in major Hollywood projects such as Haywire, Fast & Furious 6, Deadpool, and The Mandalorian. Over the years, speculation about a comeback surfaced several times, but no fight materialized until the announcement of her clash with Rousey earlier this year.

    Carano initially retired with a professional MMA record of 7-1, including notable victories over Julie Kedzie, Kelly Kobold, and Kaitlin Young. Now, after almost two decades away from competition, she finally gets the chance to step back into the cage once again.

  • Did Ronda Rousey Win Her Last Fight? Revisiting “Rowdy’s” MMA Record Before May 16 Comeback Against Gina Carano

    Did Ronda Rousey Win Her Last Fight? Revisiting “Rowdy’s” MMA Record Before May 16 Comeback Against Gina Carano

    Ronda Rousey once stood as the defining face of women’s MMA, turning a niche division into a global attraction. An Olympic bronze medalist in judo, she translated her elite grappling into a dominant run that helped bring female fighters into the UFC spotlight.

    Nearly a decade after stepping away from competition, the former UFC bantamweight champion is now preparing to step back into the cage.

    “Rowdy” is set to headline a historic return bout against Gina Carano on May 16. The fight will take place at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles under the Most Valuable Promotions banner. Contested at 145 pounds over five rounds, the matchup brings together two pioneers of the sport who have been away from MMA for a combined 25 years.

    With her comeback approaching, many fans are revisiting her career and asking a key question. Did Rousey end her MMA run with a victory or a loss? To understand that, it is worth taking a closer look at how her final fights played out.

    Image: @MostVpromotions/X

    Ronda Rousey’s Last MMA Fight

    Ronda Rousey’s final MMA appearance came at UFC 207 in December 2016, where she faced Amanda Nunes for the bantamweight title in Las Vegas.

    The fight was brief and one-sided, as Nunes overwhelmed Rousey with striking and secured a first-round TKO stoppage. It marked a difficult end to Rousey’s fighting career and confirmed a second straight defeat.

    The 39-year-old Californian’s previous outing had already shaken her dominance. At UFC 193 in November 2015, Rousey lost her title to Holly Holm via a stunning head kick knockout. That result snapped her unbeaten streak and remains one of the biggest upsets in UFC history.

    Those two defeats remain the only setbacks on her record, which stands at 12-2, with every victory coming by finish. She secured notable wins over fighters such as Miesha Tate, Cat Zingano, and Liz Carmouche during her title reign.

    As “Rowdy” prepares for her return on May 16, the question now is whether she can bounce back and get her hand raised once again.

  • Khamzat Chimaev Books Surprise June 13 Return Against Polarizing MMA Star After UFC 328 Defeat

    Khamzat Chimaev Books Surprise June 13 Return Against Polarizing MMA Star After UFC 328 Defeat

    Khamzat Chimaev isn’t wasting any time getting back into competition after suffering the first loss of his professional MMA career at UFC 328.

    Just days after dropping the middleweight title to Sean Strickland in a grueling five-round battle, Chimaev already has his next matchup booked, though it won’t take place inside the Octagon.

    Instead, “Borz” will return to the wrestling mats next month as part of Real American Freestyle’s upcoming RAF 10 event in St. Louis.

    The matchup marks Chimaev’s promotional debut for RAF and his first official wrestling appearance in several years.

    His opponent will be none other than Dillon Danis, the controversial grappling specialist and longtime combat sports agitator who recently competed under the RAF banner against former UFC interim welterweight champion Colby Covington.

    Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dillon Danis Booked For RAF 10

    RAF officially announced the matchup on Tuesday, confirming the bout will headline RAF 10 on June 13 at Chaifetz Arena in St. Louis, Missouri.

    The event comes less than a week after “Borz” lost a split decision to Strickland at UFC 328, ending both his undefeated MMA streak and his short-lived middleweight title reign.

    While the Chechen star remains focused on eventually reclaiming UFC gold, the RAF appearance gives him an opportunity to stay active without immediately jumping back into another brutal MMA training camp.

    It also potentially signals the beginning of his long-rumored move to light heavyweight. Chimaev has openly discussed being finished with difficult middleweight weight cuts, and competing in a heavier wrestling matchup could serve as a transition toward a future UFC run at 205 pounds.

    Danis, meanwhile, enters the matchup looking to rebound after losing to Covington via technical fall during his RAF debut earlier this year. Once viewed as one of the elite grapplers in the sport, Danis initially rose to prominence as a training partner of Conor McGregor before building his own polarizing reputation through MMA, boxing, and social media controversies.

    RAF 10 will also feature additional high-profile names, including Tony Ferguson vs. Arman Tsarukyan and Aaron Pico vs. Lance Palmer.

  • UFC Reveals Custom Fight Kits And Special White House-Themed Gear For UFC Freedom 250 Card

    UFC Reveals Custom Fight Kits And Special White House-Themed Gear For UFC Freedom 250 Card

    UFC Freedom 250 continues to lean heavily into its patriotic theme after the promotion officially unveiled the event’s custom fight kits ahead of the historic June 14 card in Washington, D.C.

    Created in partnership with Venum, the specially designed uniforms feature a bold red, white, and blue color palette inspired by the United States’ 250th anniversary celebration. The kits also prominently include White House-inspired branding and commemorative USA 250 patches, further tying the event to the unprecedented setting on the South Lawn.

    According to promotional details released alongside the reveal, the gear was designed to reflect what the UFC described as “the American fighting spirit” while commemorating one of the most unique events in combat sports history.

    UFC Freedom 250 Fight Kits Feature Special White House Branding

    Unlike standard UFC apparel, the Freedom 250 kits include exclusive details created specifically for the event, including collaboration branding involving the White House, Fanatics, and America250.

    The custom uniforms are expected to be worn throughout fight week festivities and during the event itself, which will take place at a temporary outdoor arena being built on White House grounds.

    Fans will also be able to purchase the limited-edition kits online through UFC Store, Venum, and Fanatics, while additional merchandise locations will reportedly be available throughout Washington during fight week festivities.

    The UFC has also already revealed a special one-off championship belt for the card featuring heavy American flag themes and patriotic detailing designed specifically for the White House event.

    The UFC Freedom 250 event itself is shaping up to be one of the biggest cards of the year.

    In the main event, Ilia Topuria is scheduled to defend his lightweight title against interim champion Justin Gaethje. Meanwhile, Alex Pereira will move up to heavyweight to face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight championship in the co-main event.

  • Dricus Du Plessis Has Hilarious Reaction to Sean Strickland’s Upset Win Over Khamzat Chimaev At UFC 328

    Dricus Du Plessis Has Hilarious Reaction to Sean Strickland’s Upset Win Over Khamzat Chimaev At UFC 328

    Dricus du Plessis may have been one of the happiest people in the building after Sean Strickland shocked the MMA world by defeating Khamzat Chimaev in the UFC 328 main event.

    Strickland reclaimed the middleweight title with a grueling split-decision victory over Chimaev on Saturday night in Newark, handing “Borz” the first loss of his professional career and ending his title reign after just one defense.

    Watching cageside was Du Plessis, who suddenly finds himself right back in the middle of the championship picture thanks to the result.

    The South African previously defeated Strickland twice during his own title reign, first capturing the belt against him at UFC 297 before successfully defending it in their rematch at UFC 312.

    However, Du Plessis later lost the title to Chimaev after being controlled for long stretches in their clash at UFC 319 last year.

    Following UFC 328, “Stillknocks” made it clear he wasn’t surprised by how the fight unfolded.

    Dricus du Plessis Believes Sean Strickland Broke Khamzat Chimaev’s Pace At UFC 328

    “The fight went exactly the way I thought it would,” Du Plessis said in a backstage UFC interview. “Great, great fight by Strickland. Like I said, it’s so hard to keep that man on the ground.”

    Du Plessis explained that Strickland’s ability to repeatedly work his way back to his feet eventually drained Chimaev’s gas tank and shifted the momentum of the fight.

    “He is incredibly tough to hold down,” Du Plessis said. “He made Khamzat tired and that’s exactly what happened.”

    The former champion also reiterated his belief that once the fight stayed standing for extended periods, Strickland held the advantage.

    “And like I said, in the stand-up, [Khamzat] just won’t be able to hang with him,” Du Plessis added. “So congratulations.”

    Du Plessis then jokingly closed his reaction with a line that immediately caught fans’ attention online.

    “I guess this makes me world champion again.”

    Videos circulating on social media also showed Du Plessis celebrating Strickland’s victory cageside, smiling and applauding after the judges announced the decision.

    Although the UFC has not confirmed what comes next at middleweight, Strickland’s win potentially places Du Plessis in a strong position for a trilogy fight, given his two previous victories over the newly crowned champion.

  • WATCH: UFC Star Paddy Pimblett Leaves British TikToker Gassed And Throwing Up After Sparring

    WATCH: UFC Star Paddy Pimblett Leaves British TikToker Gassed And Throwing Up After Sparring

    Paddy Pimblett recently gave a popular TikTok creator a harsh lesson inside the gym during a friendly sparring session.

    British influencer Dean Alex, who built a following online through bizarre fan-requested challenges and his viral catchphrase “do you not know who I am, kid?”, recently teamed up with Pimblett for a sparring session at Next Generation MMA in Liverpool.

    The collaboration came together after one of Alex’s followers challenged him to fight the UFC star.

    At the start of the session, Pimblett appeared to take it easy on the influencer. The former interim UFC lightweight title challenger was noticeably holding back early on and even allowed Alex to land a few shots during the exchange.

    During the spar, Pimblett eventually connected with a spinning elbow before following up with several additional strikes that visibly overwhelmed the TikToker.

    Moments later, Alex was seen running off the mat before eventually throwing up from exhaustion and the punishment he absorbed.

    The 31-year-old Liverpool native last competed at UFC 324 in January, where he challenged Justin Gaethje for the interim lightweight title. Pimblett ultimately dropped a unanimous decision, bringing his UFC record to 7-1.

    Before the setback against Gaethje, “The Baddy” had built serious momentum in the lightweight division with victories over names such as Tony Ferguson, Michael Chandler, and King Green.

    Pimblett is now scheduled to return at UFC 329 on July 11 during International Fight Week, where he’ll face Benoit Saint Denis at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.

  • Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Card Suffers Big Blow After Fighter Withdraws Due to Visa Issues One Week Out From May 16 Event

    Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Card Suffers Big Blow After Fighter Withdraws Due to Visa Issues One Week Out From May 16 Event

    A highly anticipated matchup between two of the world’s best non-UFC flyweights has fallen apart just days before the blockbuster Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card.

    Most Valuable Promotions confirmed Saturday that Muhammad Mokaev has been forced out of next weekend’s Netflix event due to visa complications, resulting in a late opponent change for Adriano Moraes ahead of the May 16 card at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

    Instead, undefeated prospect Phumi Nkuta will now step in on short notice to face Moraes in a 130-pound catchweight bout.

    Muhammad Mokaev Suffers Frustrating Setback Ahead Of Massive Netflix Card

    Mokaev’s withdrawal is a significant blow to the event, given the intrigue surrounding the matchup. The undefeated flyweight was widely viewed as one of the standout names attached to the card, and many fans saw the fight as a potential statement opportunity that could help reopen the door to a UFC return.

    The 25-year-old remains unbeaten in professional MMA with a 16-0 record and previously went 7-0 inside the UFC before his surprising release in 2024. During his time with the promotion, Mokaev picked up victories over notable names such as Manel Kape, Alex Perez, and Tim Elliott.

    Since leaving the UFC, Mokaev has continued winning outside the promotion and even captured the inaugural Brave CF flyweight championship last year.

    His replacement, Nkuta, enters the spotlight carrying an undefeated 11-0 professional record. The South African-born flyweight has competed for promotions such as Bellator, LFA, and CFFC, where he previously held championship gold.

    Meanwhile, Moraes enters the matchup looking to rebound from recent struggles. The longtime ONE Championship standout famously defeated Demetrious Johnson during his title reign, though he has dropped three of his last four fights heading into the Netflix event.

    The May 16 card remains stacked despite the late change, featuring appearances from stars such as Francis Ngannou, Nate Diaz, and Junior dos Santos.

  • WATCH: Ilia Topuria And Josh Hokit Nearly Throw Down Before Security Intervention At UFC Freedom 250 Press Conference

    WATCH: Ilia Topuria And Josh Hokit Nearly Throw Down Before Security Intervention At UFC Freedom 250 Press Conference

    UFC Freedom 250’s press conference in Newark completely descended into chaos after heavyweight contender Josh Hokit launched into an explosive tirade aimed at multiple fighters on stage before security was forced to remove him from the event.

    The press conference, held Friday at the Prudential Center ahead of the historic White House card on June 14, initially followed the usual format as fighters answered questions. But things spiraled once Hokit grabbed the microphone.

    The outspoken heavyweight, who is scheduled to face Derrick Lewis at UFC Freedom 250, first began directing trash talk toward Alex Pereira. “Poatan”, however, appeared largely unfazed by the comments and barely reacted as Hokit attempted to provoke him.

    As Hokit continued ranting, Ilia Topuria interrupted from his seat, which immediately sent the situation into chaos.

    “I’m gonna Chama on yo mama,” Hokit shouted while pointing toward Pereira. “Look how I speak to him, like my dog, like my b*tch. F*uck you.”

    “El Matador” immediately fired back from his seat.

    “F*ck you, little b*tch. Sit down,” the reiging lightweight champion responded.

    Security Forced To Intervene After Josh Hokit And Ilia Topuria Nearly Clash

    Instead of backing down, Hokit continued jawing at Topuria and pushed the confrontation even further.

    “Ilia Topuria you shouldn’t find your wife in Miami,” Hokit yelled, triggering an immediate reaction inside the room.

    The two fighters quickly rose from their seats and came face-to-face before security rushed in to separate them. Multiple guards surrounded the stage as tensions escalated, eventually escorting Hokit out before the press conference could completely unravel.

    The heavyweight contender was removed so abruptly that he never even got the opportunity to face off with Lewis afterward.

    UFC Freedom 250 is scheduled to take place on June 14 in Washington, D.C., with Topuria set to headline the event against Justin Gaethje while Pereira faces Ciryl Gane in the co-main event for the interim heavyweight championship.

  • Islam Makhachev Explains Why Sean Strickland Could Give Khamzat Chimaev Serious Problems at UFC 328

    Islam Makhachev Explains Why Sean Strickland Could Give Khamzat Chimaev Serious Problems at UFC 328

    Islam Makhachev believes Sean Strickland could present far more problems for Khamzat Chimaev than many fans expect ahead of their UFC 328 showdown this weekend.

    While Chimaev enters Saturday’s title fight in Newark as a sizeable betting favorite, the reigning UFC welterweight titleholder suggested the matchup may become much more complicated if Strickland can survive the early grappling exchanges and force “Borz” into deep waters.

    During a recent interview with Red Corner MMA (via Championship Rounds), Makhachev explained that Chimaev’s success may ultimately hinge on whether he can consistently keep Strickland grounded.

    “It’s going to be a good fight,” Makhachev said. “I have already told my teammates that if Khamzat manages to get takedowns, it’s going to be a very easy fight. But if it goes all five rounds, then he would have to work really hard.”

    Islam Makhachev Believes Sean Strickland’s Ability To Stand Back Up Could Change The Fight

    Makhachev pointed to the key difference between Strickland and former champion Dricus du Plessis, whom Chimaev defeated to capture the middleweight belt at UFC 319.

    “Unlike it was with Dricus du Plessis, who was lying on his back and couldn’t get up, I think Strickland will be working his way up, getting up and fighting back,” Makhachev said.

    “I mean, the guys who worked with him at Xtreme Couture in Las Vegas say that he’s constantly trying to get up from the ground.”

    Strickland’s durability and defensive grappling have become major talking points heading into UFC 328. Despite competing professionally 37 times across MMA, the former middleweight champion has never been submitted in his career.

    The outspoken American enters the fight with momentum after scoring a knockout victory over Anthony Hernandez at UFC Houston back in February. Since joining the UFC, Strickland has compiled a 17-7 promotional record, earning notable wins over Paulo Costa, Israel Adesanya, and Nassourdine Imavov.

  • UFC Boss Dana White Says Men Shouldn’t Publicly Share Their Emotional Struggles Online

    UFC Boss Dana White Says Men Shouldn’t Publicly Share Their Emotional Struggles Online

    Dana White is drawing heavy backlash online after making controversial comments about men’s mental health and modern masculinity during a recent podcast appearance.

    Speaking on The Katie Miller Podcast, White criticized what he described as the growing culture of men publicly discussing emotional struggles on social media.

    The longtime UFC boss argued that men are expected to serve as providers and leaders for their families, suggesting that openly sharing personal hardships online projects weakness. Dana White also weighed in on the ” toxic masculinity ” debate.

    “I hate this whole men’s mental health stuff that they talk about,” White said. “Unfortunately, when you’re a man, you are the provider, you can’t be that guy posting on social media, ‘Oh I had a bad day and I’m so sad.’ It’s unattractive to other males, let alone women.”

    The comments quickly sparked debate across social media, with many criticizing White for discouraging men from speaking openly about mental health issues. Others defended the UFC CEO, arguing he was emphasizing personal responsibility and traditional masculinity rather than dismissing mental health entirely.

    Dana White Also Weighed In On “Toxic Masculinity” Debate

    The conversation expanded beyond mental health as White discussed what he sees as the changing role of young men in modern society. Referencing the COVID era and broader cultural shifts, he claimed many men have felt “displaced” in recent years.

    “These young men, I think, we went through COVID and the whole woke era and all the weird sh*t that went on during that period,” White said. “A lot of the young males felt displaced.”

    The UFC head honcho also mocked criticism surrounding so-called “toxic masculinity,” a term frequently associated with online debates about gender roles and modern male culture.

    “I grew up in the 80s when men were men,” White said. “Now it’s a whole other world out there.”

    During the discussion, podcast host Katie Miller suggested many women still ultimately want men who fulfill traditional protector and provider roles. White agreed strongly with that viewpoint.

    “It is never, ever going to change,” White said. “I don’t care how powerful a woman is, what she does. Women want to be taken care of, treated right, and they want to feel safe. It’s a man’s job to do all that.”

  • Boxing Star Amanda Serrano Claps Back After Fan Crosses Line With Inappropriate Request – ‘I’m A Boxer, Not A Stripper’

    Boxing Star Amanda Serrano Claps Back After Fan Crosses Line With Inappropriate Request – ‘I’m A Boxer, Not A Stripper’

    Amanda Serrano fired back at a fan on social media this week after receiving an inappropriate request under one of her recent posts.

    The seven-division world champion shared a photo online when one user responded by asking Serrano to post feet pictures. The comment quickly caught the attention of the boxing star, who didn’t hold back with her response.

    “I’m a boxer, not a stripper,” Serrano wrote. “I’ll post boxing content & nothing showing body. We have enough that love taking their clothes off. Follow them.”

    The exchange sparked support from many fans who praised Serrano for shutting down the comment and defending herself against the kind of disrespectful messages female athletes frequently deal with online.

    Amanda Serrano Remains One Of Boxing’s Most Accomplished Champions

    The Puerto Rican superstar owns a professional record of 51-3-2 with 31 knockouts and has captured world championships across seven different weight divisions, a feat very few fighters in boxing history have accomplished.

    Serrano last competed earlier this year when she defeated Nina Meinke by unanimous decision in a dominant performance to bounce back from consecutive losses to longtime rival Katie Taylor.

    The victory helped Serrano regain momentum after the highly competitive Taylor trilogy cemented itself as one of the defining rivalries in women’s boxing.

    “The Real Deal” is scheduled to return to the ring on May 30 in El Paso, Texas, where she’ll defend her unified featherweight titles against Cheyenne Hanson as part of the MVPW-03 card promoted by Most Valuable Promotions

  • TKO President Says UFC Has “Never Been Stronger” Despite Fans Complaining About Recent Fight Cards Quality

    TKO President Says UFC Has “Never Been Stronger” Despite Fans Complaining About Recent Fight Cards Quality

    Mark Shapiro is dismissing growing criticism surrounding the UFC’s recent run of events, insisting the promotion remains stronger than ever despite increasing complaints from fans about card quality.

    Over the past several months, frustration has steadily built online regarding UFC matchmaking, particularly with smaller Fight Night cards and the growing number of relatively unknown fighters appearing on major events. The criticism has only intensified since the UFC began its new broadcast era with Paramount earlier this year.

    Still, Shapiro made it clear during a recent TKO financial call that the company does not believe the product has declined.

    “Look, bottom line is we don’t buy it,” Shapiro said. “Let’s just start with this premise. The product is great at the UFC, the brand has never been stronger, our reach has never been greater, so the foundational elements of UFC are in concrete.”

    TKO Believes UFC Is Simply Entering New Era Of Stars

    Shapiro pointed to recent events like UFC 327 and the UFC’s Perth card as examples of why the company remains confident in the direction of the promotion.

    “Anyone that came to our last numbered fight in Miami, which was UFC 327, was flat-out blown away,” Shapiro said. “Or anyone that went to our last Fight Night, which happened to be last week in Perth, Australia.”

    Rather than seeing the current roster transition as a weakness, Shapiro argued that the UFC is in the middle of building its next generation of stars.

    “We are always building in the UFC,” he said. “We find the best up-and-coming talent around the world and we match them continually in the best fights.”

    Shapiro specifically highlighted rising names such as Joshua Van, Carlos Prates, and Michael Morales as examples of the promotion’s future direction.

    “There’s a huge movement right now with all these young fighters coming up in the ranks,” Shapiro said. “Many of them are taking over slots in the top 10 from guys that have been names in the rankings for years.”

    He also referenced the UFC’s upcoming White House event, UFC Freedom 250, which is expected to be one of the biggest cards of the year and will feature lightweight champion Ilia Topuria in the main event.

    “It’s all very cyclical,” Shapiro added while addressing the criticism. “With any sport, there’s natural ebbs and flows.”

  • Henry Cejudo Shares Controversial Opinion On Alex Pereira’s Place In UFC History

    Henry Cejudo Shares Controversial Opinion On Alex Pereira’s Place In UFC History

    Henry Cejudo believes Alex Pereira is already building one of the greatest résumés in UFC history, but he still isn’t ready to place “Poatan” at the very top of the all-time list.

    During a recent episode of the Pound 4 Pound podcast, Cejudo and Kamaru Usman discussed what the Brazilian’s legacy could look like if he defeats Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title at UFC White House on June 14.

    A victory would potentially make Pereira the first fighter in UFC history to capture championships across three different weight classes after previously winning titles at middleweight and light heavyweight.

    Despite acknowledging the magnitude of that achievement, “Triple C” stopped short of calling Pereira the greatest fighter ever.

    “He’s in the top 5 greatest of all time,” Cejudo said.

    Henry Cejudo Questions Alex Pereira’s Path To UFC titles

    When Usman pushed back and suggested that becoming a three-division champion should automatically place Pereira at No. 1, Cejudo argued that Pereira’s road to championship opportunities differs from many of the sport’s legendary figures.

    “No, because there’s a big difference because he was kind of pushed to the title at 185,” Cejudo said. “He was pushed to the title at light heavyweight. And now he’s being pushed to the title.”

    “It’s different when you actually run through the weight class like you did, like Jon Jones did, that sh*t is f*cking hard,” he continued. “Now, if you’re able to do that, go up, run through the next one, go up, run through that next one, that’s a big difference. I’m not hating, I’m just telling the truth.”

    Still, Pereira’s accomplishments since joining the UFC have been remarkable.

    After arriving from kickboxing in 2021, “Poatan” rapidly climbed through the middleweight division before knocking out Israel Adesanya to win the 185-pound title. He later moved to light heavyweight, where he captured another championship and scored high-profile victories over fighters such as Jiri Prochazka, Magomed Ankalaev, and Khalil Rountree Jr.

  • UFC Veteran Explains Why Alex Pereira Could Struggle in Heavyweight Debut Against Ciryl Gane

    UFC Veteran Explains Why Alex Pereira Could Struggle in Heavyweight Debut Against Ciryl Gane

    Alexander Volkov isn’t fully convinced that Alex Pereira’s highly anticipated move to heavyweight will go as smoothly as many fans expect.

    The former two-division champion is set to make his heavyweight debut on June 14 at UFC Freedom Fights 250, where he’ll face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight championship while undisputed titleholder Tom Aspinall continues recovering from an eye injury.

    While much of the MMA world has rallied behind the Brazilian’s pursuit of a third UFC title in a new division, Volkov believes Gane’s style could create serious problems for “Poatan.”

    Speaking during UFC 328 media day in Newark, “Drago” explained why he currently favors the French heavyweight in the matchup.

    “Honestly, Ciryl is more favorite right now,” Volkov said. “He has really great footwork. I respect Alex Pereira and his power, but I don’t know how he will show up in the heavyweight division, and I don’t know how he will do with Ciryl Gane’s style in the octagon

    Alexander Volkov Questions Whether Alex Pereira Can Solve Ciryl Gane’s Movement

    Volkov pointed specifically to Gane’s mobility and movement-heavy striking approach as a potential nightmare matchup for Pereira.

    “Because Pereira needs to pressure the guy and work on counterattacks, and Ciryl Gane don’t give him the opportunity,” Volkov said. “He just punches and kicks and moves a lot. It’s a hard thing for Alex Pereira to solve in the fight. I’m not sure he can do this.”

    Volkov’s opinion carries weight, given his own history with Gane. The Russian heavyweight fought the former interim champion back in 2024 and lost a razor-close split decision, many observers felt could have gone the other way.

    Outside of that defeat, Volkov has quietly built one of the strongest recent runs in the heavyweight division, winning five of his last six fights heading into his UFC 328 clash with Waldo Cortes-Acosta this weekend.

  • Dana White Doesn’t Want Dillon Danis Anywhere Near UFC 328 Amid Khamzat Chimaev-Sean Strickland Fight Week Chaos

    Dana White Doesn’t Want Dillon Danis Anywhere Near UFC 328 Amid Khamzat Chimaev-Sean Strickland Fight Week Chaos

    Dana White has once again made it clear that Dillon Danis is not welcome anywhere near the UFC, especially during one of the most volatile fight weeks the promotion has seen in years.

    Speaking during a recent appearance on Nina Marie Daniele’s KICK stream, White joked — while also sounding genuinely cautious — about the possibility of Danis showing up at UFC 328 in Newark this weekend amid the already explosive tensions surrounding Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland.

    “Dillon, if you show up on Saturday, maybe the Muslim Brotherhood will be so focused on you they won’t be able to go after Sean,” White said.

    The comment comes as security has already been heavily increased throughout UFC 328 fight week following repeated hostile exchanges between Chimaev and Strickland.

    The two middleweights nearly erupted into a physical altercation during Thursday’s press conference, where “Borz” kicked Strickland during an intense faceoff that immediately triggered a massive security response.

    UFC 322 Crowd Brawl Still Hangs Over Dillon Danis

    White’s warning also ties directly back to the chaos that unfolded at UFC 322 at Madison Square Garden late last year.

    During the event, “El Jefe” became involved in a massive crowd brawl linked to members of Islam Makhachev’s entourage after allegedly provoking them cageside. Videos from the incident appeared to show multiple people throwing punches inside the packed arena.

    Several fighters connected to Team Makhachev were reportedly involved in the altercation, including Abubakar Nurmagomedov and Magomed Zaynukov, also known online as “John Pork.”

    The UFC CEO later publicly blamed Danis for the incident and announced that the polarizing fighter would never attend another UFC event again.

  • Alex Pereira Makes Surprise Pick For Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland At UFC 328

    Alex Pereira Makes Surprise Pick For Khamzat Chimaev vs. Sean Strickland At UFC 328

    Alex Pereira is backing Sean Strickland to shock the MMA world this weekend at UFC 328.

    Strickland enters Saturday’s main event in Newark as a sizable underdog against undefeated middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, but Pereira believes his former opponent and training partner has the tools to make things extremely difficult for “Borz.”

    During the UFC 328 Countdown, “Poatan” reflected on how his perception of Strickland changed after sharing the Octagon and later training with him.

    “Before our fight, I saw him differently,” Pereira said. “But once he stepped into the octagon, you could see it on his face. He was a different guy. He’s a warrior.”

    The Brazilian knockout artist famously stopped Strickland at UFC 276 to earn his shot at the middleweight title. But after the fight, the two eventually developed mutual respect and spent time training together at the UFC Performance Institute.

    “The first time we trained together was after our fight,” Pereira explained. “I learned a lot from those sessions. He’s got a lot of experience. He knows his craft.”

    Alex Pereira Believes Sean Strickland’s Jab Could Trouble Khamzat Chimaev

    Pereira specifically pointed to Strickland’s relentless pressure and jab-heavy style as key weapons heading into the title fight.

    “He’s always moving forward, firing that jab,” Pereira said. “That’s a great weapon he has.”

    The former two-division UFC champion also offered strategic advice for how Strickland can potentially neutralize Chimaev’s wrestling-heavy attack.

    “He’s got to stay composed, keep pressing forward, stay alert, watch out for the takedowns, and use his jab and front kick,” Pereira said. “I’m really excited and motivated for this fight, and I hope he gets the win.”

    While “Poatan” is focused on supporting Strickland this weekend, he also has a historic opportunity looming next month.

    On June 14, Pereira is scheduled to face Ciryl Gane for the interim heavyweight title at UFC Freedom 250 in Washington, D.C. A victory would make Pereira the first fighter in UFC history to capture championships across three different divisions since joining the promotion in 2021.


  • UFC 328’s Jeremy Stephens Questions Why Promotion Isn’t Giving Fighters $500,000 Bonuses

    UFC 328’s Jeremy Stephens Questions Why Promotion Isn’t Giving Fighters $500,000 Bonuses

    Jeremy Stephens isn’t convinced the UFC’s newly increased bonus payouts are nearly enough, especially considering how much bigger the company has become since the start of his career.

    Ahead of his UFC 328 showdown against King Green this weekend in Newark, Stephens spoke candidly about fighter compensation during an interview with Full Send MMA.

    The longtime UFC veteran, who made his promotional debut back in 2007, argued that the promotion’s current $100,000 post-fight bonuses still fail to reflect the UFC’s financial growth over the years.

    “Now it is just corporations,” Stephens said. “They are like, here you go, $50 gs here, $50 gs here, and now it is $100 gs, but they were already doing that in 2007 at UFC 71 when I started my UFC career.”

    “Lil’ Heathen” questioned why bonus money has not scaled more dramatically despite the UFC becoming a multi-billion-dollar business.

    “So what the fu*k happened to the money?” Stephens asked. “Where is the budget guy on this, because the UFC is making all this money? Why aren’t we getting $500,000 bonuses?”

    Jeremy Stephens Misses Old “Dana Duffle Bag” Era

    While the UFC recently doubled its standard performance bonuses under the Paramount era, Stephens suggested fighters were often rewarded more generously behind the scenes in previous years.

    “You are basically giving out what you gave out thirty years ago,” Stephens said. “For me, that doesn’t make sense; it is just really corporate. Back in the day, it was the ‘Dana duffle bag,’ bring back the good old days.”

    The 39-year-old Iowa native also reflected on how sponsorship changes altered relationships between fighters and brands. Before exclusive outfitting deals with companies like Reebok and later Venum, fighters were allowed to secure and display their own sponsors inside the Octagon.

    “Before the UFC sponsors took over, I had my own sponsors,” Stephens explained. “I had relationships, communication, and networking. There was so much more availability that opened up bigger platforms.”

    “Now I get a check from someone I don’t even know,” he continued. “I kinda miss that intimate relationship you have with the sponsors and their families.”

  • Tatsuro Taira Plans To End Japan’s Long Wait For UFC Champion With Potential Win At UFC 328

    Tatsuro Taira Plans To End Japan’s Long Wait For UFC Champion With Potential Win At UFC 328

    Tatsuro Taira believes he has the opportunity to accomplish something no Japanese fighter has ever achieved inside the UFC.

    This Saturday at UFC 328, Taira will challenge Joshua Van for the flyweight title in the co-main event at the Prudential Center in Newark. Despite entering as the challenger, oddsmakers currently favor “The Best” to leave New Jersey with championship gold.

    For the 25-year-old contender, the fight represents far more than a personal milestone.

    “It’s my dream and also Japanese fans’,” Taira said during UFC 328 media day. “Japanese fans have been waiting for the UFC belt. I will win and bring the UFC belt back to Japan. I’m ready to seize this opportunity.”

    Tatsuro Taira Looking To Make UFC History For Japan

    Japan has produced some of the most influential fighters in MMA history, but the country has never crowned an undisputed UFC champion despite several close attempts over the years.

    Seasoned veterans such as Kyoji Horiguchi, Kai Asakura, and Yushin Okami all came close to reaching the top of the UFC mountain, but none were ultimately able to capture a title.

    “The Best” now has the chance to change that.

    The Japanese standout enters UFC 328 with an impressive 18-1 professional record and an 8-1 mark inside the UFC. His lone career defeat came in a narrow decision loss to Brandon Royval in 2024

    Since then, Taira has continued building momentum and most recently earned a statement victory to secure his title shot against Van.

    Beyond winning the championship, Taira also hopes his success could help bring the UFC back to Japan for the first time in nearly a decade.

    “I must be the person,” Taira said. “After I win the belt, I want to help bring a big, big UFC event to Japan.”

    The UFC last held an event in Japan back in 2017, and Taira believes becoming champion could reignite the promotion’s presence in one of MMA’s most historic markets.