Author: Timothy Wheaton

“Boxing Gave Me a Voice”: Claressa Shields on Fighting, Discipline, and Changing the Game

Claressa Shields, one of the all-time greats in women’s boxing, recently spoke about the impact the sport has had on her life and career. Shields, a multiple-division world champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, credits boxing with giving her a sense of purpose and discipline.

Claressa Shields

“Boxing gave me a voice. It gave me physical strength and it helped develop me mentally,” Shields said, in an interview with Sway. She explained that even if she had stopped boxing, the lessons she learned from the sport would have stayed with her. “In order to have anything in life, you have to work hard and you have to be dedicated and have discipline. And that’s what everybody needs in life to do whatever that they’re doing.”

Claressa Shields also reflected on her influence in women’s boxing and how she has contributed to changing the landscape of the sport. She compared her approach to that of earlier champions, noting, “I think that with women’s boxing, I brought a whole new game. I think that Laila [Ali] came in, you know, she came with the class and everything, but it wasn’t no trash talk back then.” Shields said she brought a different energy to the ring, combining her Olympic success with a confident attitude. “I kind of came out the gate with the trash talk, the Olympic gold medals. I made sure, I’m a beast, but I’m also a beauty.”

Claressa Shields has held world titles in multiple weight classes and has become an outspoken advocate for women’s boxing. Shields often addresses the need for greater visibility and respect for female fighters, using her platform to push for equal opportunities in the sport. Her willingness to speak out, both inside and outside the ring, has made her a leading voice for change.

Claressa Shields’ most recently faced Danielle Perkins she defended her undisputed title. Priot to that she knocked out Vanessa Lepage-Joanisse in Detroit, USA, to capture the heavyweight crown. As of May 2025, Shields has not officially announced her next bout, but she has expressed interest in both high-profile boxing matches.

For Claressa Shields, boxing is a passion that has shaped her identity. “Just let them know it’s okay to be passionate about what you do. I’m passionate about boxing. I love fighting. There’s nothing I can do about it.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Timothy Wheaton MMA (@timwheatonmma)

May 20, 2025
Jon Jones Drops Bombshell: UFC Champion Says He’s “Done” With Fighting

UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones has once again cast uncertainty over his fighting future, suggesting he may be stepping away from competition. During a recent trip to Asia, Jones delivered a cryptic message in which he claimed he is “done” with fighting, raising questions about whether fans will see him in the Octagon again.

Jon Jones: I’m Done

‘Bones’ Jones, who last fought at UFC 309 in November, has been the subject of ongoing speculation regarding a potential title unification bout with interim champion Tom Aspinall. Despite widespread anticipation for this matchup, Jones has remained noncommittal, fueling rumors with his latest remarks on social media.

Image: MMA Crazy/YouTube

On a video call, he was asked when he is fighting next. Jon Jones reponded by saying, “I’m done, I’m done.”

In a recent video, Jones addressed accusations that he was avoiding a fight with Aspinall, saying, “I’ve got people in the chat calling me a duck. Meanwhile, I’m living my absolute best life. I don’t know if it’s considered ducking when you’re living good. I don’t think it works like that.”

The Rochester native’s comments come after he successfully defended his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic at Madison Square Garden, securing a third-round knockout. Since then, Jones has kept fans guessing about his next move, neither confirming nor denying plans for future bouts.

Adding to the intrigue, Jones revealed this week that the UFC is already aware of his intentions and expressed surprise that the organization has not shared this information with the public. As speculation continues to swirl, the future of one of the sport’s most decorated fighters remains unclear, leaving fans and analysts alike eager for official word on whether Jon Jones will compete again.

Image: @espnmma/X

May 20, 2025
“She Saw the Damage” Michael Morales Makes It Personal, Knocks Out Gilbert Burns in Front of His Mother

Michael Morales delivered a first-round knockout victory over Gilbert Burns in the main event of UFC Vegas 106, marking the most significant win of his undefeated career. The bout lasted just over three and a half minutes, with Morales using his strength and speed to overwhelm Burns.

After breaking free from a brief grappling exchange, Michael Morales unleashed a series of strikes that sent Burns to the canvas, prompting referee Herb Dean to stop the fight.

Michael Morales Knocks Out Gilbert Burns in Front of His Mother

This event was particularly meaningful for Michael Morales, as his mother was in attendance for the first time. In his post-fight remarks, Morales said:

“I’m very happy. Obviously, this is now behind us, it’s over, but I’m just very happy and very grateful-very grateful for all the people that have been around me all along, for my mom. This is the first time she’s here now, and she was able actually to see the damage that her son is doing to all the welterweights. As we continue to do this damage, we keep putting their lives in rumors and keep going up in the division.”

The presence of his mother added a personal dimension to a professional milestone, as she witnessed firsthand the impact her son is making in the sport. Morales entered the fight ranked No. 12 in the UFC welterweight division, while Burns held the No. 8 spot. With this win, Morales is expected to move into the top eight, likely taking Burns’ ranking when the official standings update. The victory also extended Morales’ unbeaten record to 18-0 and gave him the third-longest active winning streak in the division, behind only Jack Della Maddalena and Shavkat Rakhmonov.

Michael Morales’ rapid rise since his UFC debut in 2022 has positioned him as a strong contender in the welterweight division. Analysts and fans now see him as a potential future title challenger, with his latest performance reinforcing his status among the division’s elite. Morales has openly invited the rest of the division to face him, stating he is always prepared for new challenges.

May 19, 2025
“There Are Levels to This Game”: Heavyweight Boxing Champ Warns Jake Paul Over Anthony Joshua, Dubois Callouts

Boxing heavyweight world champion Joseph Parker has issued a warning to Jake Paul after the American influencer-turned-boxer called out top-tier heavyweights Anthony Joshua and Daniel Dubois.

Heavyweight Champion Joseph Parker Warns Jake Paul Over Callouts to Anthony Joshua and Dubois

Joseph Parker, who holds teh WBO interim heavyweight title, cautioned Jake Paul about the risks of stepping up against elite fighters with extensive experience in the sport. Speaking in an interview, Parker explained:

“Whatever Jake Paul is doing right now, he should stick to it because that is what is working for him. When you start messing with fighters that have been doing this longer than you have – and who have also achieved massive things in the sport, it can get dangerous for you. If Jake Paul genuinely wants to challenge these guys [Daniel Dubois and Anthony Joshua], then credit to him for having the bravery and courage within himself. However, there are levels to this game. Anthony Joshua will knock him out. I am not sure what round but if AJ lands clean, he will knock Jake Paul out.” He said to Casino Hawks – who offer the latest UK Casino Sites.

Image: @jakepaul/Instagram

Jake Paul has made headlines by calling out established heavyweights, including Dubois, who recently invited Paul to fight for the heavyweight championship following Paul’s victory over Mike Tyson. Despite the public challenge, there are currently no confirmed plans for a bout between Paul and Dubois.

Jake Paul, 28, began his boxing career in 2020 after rising to fame as a social media influencer and actor. He holds a professional record of 10 wins and one loss, with seven victories by knockout. Most of his opponents have been celebrities, MMA fighters, or athletes from other sports, with his only defeat coming against Tommy Fury in 2023. Paul has since returned to winning ways, defeating Nate Diaz, Andre August, Ryan Bourland, Mike Perry, and most notably, Mike Tyson in a high-profile event.

Image: @jakepaul/Instagram

Joseph Parker, 33, is a seasoned heavyweight who won the WBO world title in 2016 and has fought top contenders throughout his career. Parker’s record stands at 36 wins and 3 losses, with 24 victories by knockout. He has faced and beaten notable opponents such as Andy Ruiz Jr., Deontay Wilder, and Zhilei Zhang, and suffered defeats only to elite fighters like Anthony Joshua, Dillian Whyte, and Joe Joyce. Joseph Parker’s recent form includes a series of wins, positioning him for another world title shot.

As Paul continues to pursue high-profile opponents, the debate over his place in tboxing remains active. For now, Parker’s message is clear: there are levels in boxing.

Images: @pflmma/Instagram

May 19, 2025
Julio César Chávez Jr.: “Jake Paul is Scared – I See It in His Eyes”

The boxing world is set for a high-profile clash as Julio César Chávez Jr. prepares to face Jake Paul on June 28, 2025, in a bout that has captured the attention of both traditional fight fans and a new generation of viewers.

Julio César Chávez Jr. Talks Jake Paul

Julio César Chávez Jr. has expressed confidence ahead of his upcoming boxing match with Jake Paul. In an interview with The Schmo, he explained:

“Ready. Ready to beat Jake Paul. Ready to beat Jake Paul! … He’s scared, man. He’s so nervous. I feel-I see in his eyes. So I’m ready to put it down.”

The fight has generated attention due to the contrasting backgrounds of the two competitors. Chávez Jr. is a former WBC middleweight world champion and the son of Mexican boxing legend Julio César Chávez. He began his professional career in 2003 and has fought established names in the sport, including Sergio Martínez, Canelo Álvarez, and Daniel Jacobs. Although his career has seen ups and downs, Chávez Jr. brings significant experience and a professional record that includes multiple title fights.

Image: @jakepaul/Instagram

Jake Paul, on the other hand, is a social media personality who transitioned to boxing in recent years. Since his professional debut in 2020, Paul has won several fights against a mix of fellow influencers, former MMA fighters, and athletes from other sports. His bouts have drawn large audiences and considerable media coverage, though he has yet to face an opponent with the professional pedigree of Chávez Jr.

Image: @jakepaul on Instagram

The upcoming fight between Chávez Jr. and Jake Paul is seen as a test for both men. For Chávez Jr., it is an opportunity to re-establish himself in the boxing world. For Paul, it is a chance to prove he can compete with a seasoned professional. The match has attracted interest from both traditional boxing fans and followers of celebrity boxing events. The outcome may influence the future paths of both fighters in the sport.

May 16, 2025
“I Had to Change a Lot After Back-to-Back Losses,” Gilbert Burns Reveals Hard Truths Ahead of UFC Main Event

Gilbert Burns is set to headline this weekend’s UFC Fight Night, marking a significant moment in his career after enduring consecutive losses. The Brazilian welterweight, known for his aggressive style and grappling skills, has been a mainstay in the UFC since his debut in 2014.

Gilbert Burns vs. Michael Morales

Brazil’s Gilbert Burns has faced some of the division’s top fighters, including Kamaru Usman and Jorge Masvidal, and has consistently remained in the title conversation.

The stakes are high for Gilbert Burns as he enters the main event of UFC Fight Night against undefeated prospect Michael Morales. Burns, currently ranked No. 8 in the welterweight division, is looking to halt a three-fight losing streak and prove he still belongs among the elite after recent setbacks against top contenders. A win would not only preserve his place in the top 10 but also reassert his relevance in a division that has seen a surge of new talent.

For Morales, ranked No. 12, this fight is a major opportunity to break into the upper echelon of the division by defeating a seasoned former title challenger. The outcome will shape the immediate future for both fighters: Burns fights to maintain his status, while Morales aims to announce himself as a legitimate contender at 170 pounds.

Gilbert Burns Needs a Win

Ahead of his main event bout, Burns addressed the media at the pre-fight press conference. He spoke candidly about the challenges he has faced following his recent setbacks. Burns admitted that his performances had not met his own expectations, citing issues with weight cuts and recovery as factors that affected his last fight. He emphasized that his focus is now on delivering the kind of performance he knows he is capable of, rather than being concerned about his opponent. Gilbert Burns explained:

“I’m putting pressure on myself just because of my performance. I want to perform. I don’t think the last time I performed the way I want. I had a little problems-no excuse-I had a little problems with my weight cut, my recovery… I want to be here, but it’s not about my opponent, it’s about me performing. I want to go there and put on the work that I’ve been training, and I’m excited to be here, to be back, to show up, to put on a show.”

The Brazilian-born athlete Gilbert Burns also revealed that a difficult conversation with his coach after his last loss forced him to reevaluate his approach to training and competition. He acknowledged that he was not putting in the level of work required to succeed at the highest level. This realization led him to make several changes in his preparation and mindset, which he believes have helped restore his confidence. He added:

“After my last loss, I had a real conversation with my coach. It was painful, but I needed to hear it. He told me, ‘You’re still working, but you’re not putting in the work you should.’ That was hard to hear, but it changed everything. I had to change a lot of things in my career to get here. I felt a little rejuvenated. Let’s right those wrongs. Those losses, especially back-to-back, sucked. I never had two losses back-to-back in MMA. I had to change a couple of things, and they helped me bring my belief back.”

Image: @gilbert_burns/Instagram

As he prepares to step into the octagon this weekend, Burns is motivated by the opportunity to prove himself and move past his recent defeats. He expressed a sense of renewal and determination to showcase the improvements he has made. For Burns, this main event is not just another fight, but a chance to demonstrate growth and resilience in the face of adversity.

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – DECEMBER 14: during the Power Slap event at UFC Apex on December 14, 2022 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Chris Unger/Sciaffo LLC)

May 16, 2025
“No Pressure Being Undefeated,” Says Michael Morales Ahead of Gilbert Burns Match: “It’s About Smart, Hard Work”

The unbeaten Michael Morales is set to face seasoned veteran Gilbert Burns in the main event of UFC Fight Night this weekend. The matchup brings together two fighters at pivotal points in their careers.

Michael Morales Feels No pressure

Michael Morales has maintained a perfect professional record thus far, addressed the topic of remaining undefeated during the pre-fight press conference. He emphasized that his unblemished record does not add pressure, but instead fuels his commitment to preparation. “Being undefeated, as I’ve always said, isn’t pressure for me; it’s not something to scare me, quite the opposite. You have to work harder. We don’t know what will happen; nothing is written in the cage. The fight, as I always say, is fought there, and whoever prepares well, performs well. So this is about smart work, hard work,” Morales said.

Image: @gilbert_burns/Instagram

Brazil’s Gilbert Burns, Michael Morales’ opponent, is a former title challenger known for his resilience. Burns enters the bout coming off a loss, which adds urgency to his performance. Morales acknowledged this, stating, “Gilbert is a fighter coming off a loss, as you said, so he’s a lion waiting for his opportunity and won’t waste it. I’m the same; we both have a hunger to win, we both want victory. He because maybe he’s afraid of being cut from the company. I because I want to keep climbing the rankings, keep fighting, and move toward the belt.”

“We all need this opportunity to keep advancing. He has his reasons for fighting. I have mine. So each of us is doing what we can with what we have, and I believe we both have the tools to keep moving forward in the division.”

For Michel Morales, a win would solidify his status as a legitimate contender and move him closer to a title shot. For Burns, victory is crucial to remain relevant in the division and to stave off any concerns about his future in the UFC. Both fighters bring strong motivation and a clear sense of purpose into the main event, setting the stage for a closely contested and meaningful matchup. Morales is one to keep an eye on, he boasts a perfect 17-0 record and has a knockout win rate over seventy-percent.

Photo by Tim Wheaton

May 15, 2025
Jake Paul Eyes World Title Run: “Badou Jack, Zordo, Joshua, Even Canelo Are on the Horizon”

Jake Paul is setting his sights higher than ever, declaring his intention to pursue a world title and naming established champions Badou Jack, Gilberto “Zordo” Ramírez, Anthony Joshua, and even Canelo Álvarez as potential opponents on his path. After building a professional boxing career that has moved beyond novelty matchups, Jake Paul now says he is in active discussions with several top fighters as he looks to prove himself against recognized names in the sport. With a record of 11-1 and an upcoming fight against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., Paul’s latest comments mark a clear shift toward challenging for legitimate titles and stepping into the ring with some of boxing’s most accomplished athletes.

Jake Paul Wants Canelo and Anthony Joshua

Jake Paul, a YouTuber-turned-boxer, has built an 11-1 professional boxing record since his debut in 2020, with notable victories over opponents from various backgrounds, including former MMA champions Ben Askren and Tyron Woodley, as well as ex-NBA player Nate Robinson. Paul suffered his first defeat in a split decision against Tommy Fury in February 2023 but rebounded with a win over Nate Diaz and three subsequent knockout victories. His next bout is scheduled for June 28, 2025, against former WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr., as Paul continues to seek legitimacy in the sport.

In recent comments, Jake Paul revealed ongoing discussions with several prominent fighters, including Gervonta Davis, Anthony Joshua, Badou Jack, Ryan Garcia, KSI, and Tommy Fury. Among these, Badou Jack stands out as a significant target. Jack is a Swedish boxer and three-division world champion, having held the WBC super-middleweight, WBA light-heavyweight, and WBC cruiserweight titles.

Jake Paul also mentioned interest in facing Zordo, a nickname for Gilberto Ramírez, another high-profile boxer, and highlighted Canelo Álvarez as a long-term goal. Canelo is a Mexican boxer and multiple-time world champion across four weight classes, widely regarded as one of the sport’s elite, and recently became a two-time undisputed super middleweight champion.

In an interview with The Schmo, Jake Paul explained:

“Yeah, look, I mean, we’re in discussions with a lot of names-Gervonta Davis, Anthony Joshua, Badou Jack, Ryan Garcia, KSI, Tommy Fury. So there’s a lot of people on the hit list. But Badou Jack excites me a lot and I definitely want to become world champions, so going after Zordo or Badou sounds like a good game plan to me. But Canelo’s still on the horizon”

Other names Paul referenced include Gervonta Davis, an American lightweight champion known for his knockout power; Anthony Joshua, a British former unified heavyweight champion; Ryan Garcia, a lightweight contender; KSI, a fellow YouTuber and boxer; and Tommy Fury, a British boxer and reality TV personality who handed Paul his only loss . This means that Paul is considering opponents ranging from the lightweight division at 135 pounds all the way up to heavyweight at over 250 pounds.

Jake Paul’s list of potential opponents covers a wide spectrum of boxing weight classes. Gervonta Davis is a lightweight, fighting at 135 pounds. Ryan Garcia currently competes at super lightweight, which is 140 pounds. Tommy Fury has fought around the light heavyweight limit, weighing in at about 175 to 183 pounds in recent bouts.

KSI and Paul himself have competed at cruiserweight, which has an upper limit of 200 pounds . Badou Jack has held world titles at super middleweight (168 pounds), light heavyweight (175 pounds), and cruiserweight (200 pounds). Gilberto “Zordo” Ramírez is a unified cruiserweight champion, also fighting at 200 pounds. Anthony Joshua is a heavyweight, typically weighing over 250 pounds, while Canelo Álvarez has competed from light middleweight (154 pounds) up to light heavyweight (175 pounds).

Paul’s ambitions signal a shift from celebrity-driven exhibitions to seeking bouts with established champions, aiming for world title contention in the cruiserweight division and beyond.

Images: @pflmma/Instagram

May 15, 2025
“Lock Him in with a Gorilla, The Gorilla Might Not Come Out”: Islam Makhachev’s Team Breaks Down Welterweight Move

Islam Makhachev has officially vacated his UFC lightweight championship to move up to the welterweight division, where he will challenge current champion Jack Della Maddalena. The decision follows Della Maddalena’s recent win over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315, which cleared the path for Makhachev’s transition to the 170-pound weight class. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed the move, noting that Makhachev will receive an immediate title shot in his first welterweight bout.

Islam Makhachev Moving To Welterweight

Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, explained that the shift to welterweight was motivated by a lack of remaining challenges at lightweight and a desire to avoid fighting his friend and former champion, Belal Muhammad. Abdelaziz, speaking to Submission Radio, stated, “If Belal had won, Islam was never going to compete against him, and he would have continued in the lightweight division. But now Jack has won. Islam has defeated everyone in this division, truly. He’s on a remarkable 15-fight winning streak, finishing nine of his last ten opponents. No one is more deserving of a shot at a second title than Islam.”

Image: @ufc/X

Ali Abdelaziz expressed strong confidence in Islam Makhachev’s abilities at welterweight, suggesting that the move will reveal an even stronger version of the fighter. He said, “I truly believe the Islam we’re going to see at welterweight is going to be a much, much better Islam. He’s the best grappler in the UFC, maybe one of the best wrestlers, and we see he can knock people out too. He’s not just a one-dimensional fighter-he’s the most well-rounded fighter in the UFC today… If you lock Islam with a gorilla in a cage, the gorilla might not come out. This is how good Islam is.”

Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the lightweight title marks the end of a dominant reign. His move to welterweight has been anticipated for years, with teammates noting that he has long considered leaving lightweight due to the strain of weight cutting and a lack of new challenges. The UFC lightweight division will now see Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira compete for the vacant title at UFC 317. Meanwhile, the MMA community will watch closely as Makhachev attempts to become a champion in a second weight class.

Photo by Tim Wheaton

May 14, 2025
Two Title Fights Set for UFC 317 as Full Card Revealed – June 28 in Las Vegas Ready to Rock the City

The full fight card for UFC 317 has been officially announced by UFC CEO Dana White. The event is scheduled for June 28 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, coinciding with the promotion’s annual International Fight Week.

The main event will feature former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira facing former featherweight titleholder Ilia Topuria for the vacant lightweight championship. This bout follows Islam Makhachev’s decision to vacate the lightweight title as he moves to the welterweight division, where he is expected to challenge Jack Della Maddalena at a future date.

UFC 317

Oliveira enters the fight after a win over Michael Chandler at UFC 309, while Topuria returns to lightweight after defending his featherweight title against Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. Topuria, undefeated in his professional career, is making his first appearance in the lightweight division since 2022.

Co Main Event

In the co-main event, flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja will defend his title against Kai Kara-France. Pantoja is on a seven-fight winning streak, with recent title defenses against Kai Asakura, Steve Erceg, and Brandon Royval. Kara-France, who recently secured a TKO victory over Erceg, will be making his second attempt at UFC gold, having previously fought for the interim flyweight title in 2022.

The rest of the UFC 317 card includes several notable matchups: Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape, Paulo Costa vs. Roman Kopylov, Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano, Jack Hermansson vs. Gregory Rodrigues, Jhonata Diniz vs. Justin Tafa, Viviane Araujo vs. Tracy Cortez.

All the these announcements were made public through Dana White’s Instagram on a live broadcast.

The announcement also included news about UFC 319, where middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis will defend his title against Khamzat Chimaev in Chicago on August 18. With two title fights and a lineup of established contenders, UFC 317 is set to be a central event during International Fight Week.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hKuuETqGfDI

May 14, 2025
Breaking: Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev Set for UFC 319 Middleweight Title Showdown in Chicago

UFC President Dana White announced live on Instagram that Dricus Du Plessis will defend his middleweight title against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. The event is scheduled for August 16 at the United Center in Chicago.

Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev

South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis, the reigning champion, has maintained an undefeated record in the UFC and recently defended his title against top contenders, including Israel Adesanya and Sean Strickland. Chimaev, also undefeated in his professional career, has quickly risen through the ranks with victories over former champions and is regarded as a formidable challenger.

Du Plessis began training in judo at age five, wrestling at 12, and kickboxing at 14. He is known for his well-rounded skill set, holding a second-degree black belt in kickboxing and a background in judo and wrestling. Du Plessis has a professional MMA record of 24 wins and 2 losses, with 9 victories by knockout and 11 by submission. He made his UFC debut in 2020.

Khamzat Chimaev is undefeated as a professional, with a 14-0 record, including 6 knockouts and 6 submissions. He began wrestling as a child, won Swedish national championships in freestyle wrestling, and transitioned to MMA in 2018. Chimaev quickly rose to prominence in the UFC with dominant performances, including a record-setting run of three wins in 66 days.

UFC 319

This middleweight title fight will headline UFC 319, marking one of the most anticipated matchups of the year. Both fighters bring significant win streaks and contrasting styles, setting the stage for a high-stakes contest in Chicago.

May 13, 2025
Sean Brady SLAMS Daniel Cormier Over Welterweight Rankings Snub ‘He didn’t know what to say’

Currently ranked as the number one contender in the UFC welterweight division, Sean Brady has expressed frustration after being omitted from Daniel Cormier’s list of top five welterweights during a recent interview.

Sean Brady Snubbed by Daniel Cormier

The US-born Sean Brady, who secured his position at the top of the division following a decisive win streak and a dominant performance against Leon Edwards at UFC London. Apparently he confronted hall of fame Cormier about the oversight during a weigh-in show.

According to Brady, Cormier appeared surprised and unable to justify the omission when questioned directly. Brady stated, “I’m number one and you didn’t even put me on the list,” highlighting his disappointment at not being recognized among the division’s elite despite his recent achievements. Speaking to Ariel Helwani, he said:

“I’m listening to DC do an interview with Brett Okamoto. And he’s naming his top five welterweights and I’m not on the list. So I confronted him on the weigh in show, he didn’t know what to say he was flabbergasted. Dude, I’m number one and you didn’t even put me on the list.”

Following UFC 315, the welterweight title landscape has shifted. Jack Della Maddalena emerged as the new UFC welterweight champion after defeating Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision in Montreal. Speculation has already begun about his next opponent, with potential challengers including lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and several top-ranked welterweights. Despite Sean Brady’s number one contender status, the immediate title picture may involve a super-fight or other contenders, leaving Brady and others waiting for their opportunity. Ian Garry and Shavkat Rakhmonov remain at the top of the rankings alongside Sean Brady.

Sean Brady holds a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and began his martial arts journey after being introduced to the sport by a friend. He first made a name for himself on the regional scene, capturing the Cage Fury Fighting Championships welterweight title and entering the UFC with an undefeated record. Known for his grappling skills and evolving striking game, Brady has built a reputation as a well-rounded and disciplined fighter. Since joining the UFC in 2019, he has recorded notable victories over opponents such as Kelvin Gastelum, Michael Chiesa, and Jake Matthews, and is recognized for his ability to finish fights by submission.

Sean Brady’s exclusion from Cormier’s rankings has drawn attention, especially given Brady’s current standing and recent accomplishments. Brady remains focused on his career, expressing readiness to face any top contender or to compete for the title.

Photo by Tim Wheaton

May 13, 2025
Natalia Silva Calls Out the Champ: “Valentina Shevchenko Said She Didn’t Know Me – Time to Change That”

Brazil’s Natalia Silva is ready for her shot at Valentina Shevchenko. Natalia Silva has positioned herself as a leading contender in the UFC women’s flyweight division following her unanimous decision victory over former champion Alexa Grasso at UFC 315 in Montreal. Silva controlled the bout from the outset, using her movement and striking to outwork Grasso across all three rounds.

Number One Contender Natalia Silva

The judges scored the fight 30-27 in Silva’s favor, marking her seventh consecutive win in the UFC and extending her overall win streak to 13 fights. After the fight, Silva made her intentions clear, stating that her focus is on the championship belt.

She addressed comments previously made by reigning champion Valentina Shevchenko, who had said she did not know Silva, “Valentina once said she didn’t know me, and I think it’s about time she knows me,” Natalia Silva said in her post-fight remarks. She also referenced Manon Fiorot, noting that Fiorot had replaced her in a previous bout when Silva was sidelined by injury, creating potential storylines with both fighters.

UFC Champion Valentina Shevchenko

Valentina Shevchenko is a Kyrgyz professional mixed martial artist and the reigning UFC women’s flyweight champion, widely regarded as one of the sport’s all-time greats. Born in 1988, Shevchenko has held multiple championship reigns, defended her title numerous times, and is celebrated for her technical skill and dominance in the division.

Natalia Silva is a Brazilian mixed martial artist competing in the UFC women’s flyweight division, currently recognized as a top contender after a series of notable victories, including a unanimous decision win over former champion Alexa Grasso at UFC 315. Silva has built a 13-fight win streak and is ranked among the division’s best.

Natalia Silva emphasized her readiness for a title shot, regardless of who holds the belt. Silva described her performance against Grasso as the result of focused preparation. She noted that her use of distance and kicks was effective in neutralizing Grasso’s attacks, and that she was able to avoid most of Grasso’s punches through head movement. Silva expressed satisfaction with her execution, stating, “I trained a lot for this movement, and I’m happy I was able to pull it off.”

With Shevchenko having recently defended her title against Manon Fiorot at the same event, Silva’s victory over Grasso has placed her at the forefront of the title conversation. Fans and analysts have called for Silva to receive a title opportunity following her dominant performance.

Photo by Tim Wheaton

May 13, 2025