MMA News

Category: Boxing

Latest news covering the world of professional boxing.

  • Zuffa Boxing 07 Results: Billam-Smith vs. Rozicki Live From Bournemouth

    Zuffa Boxing 07 Results: Billam-Smith vs. Rozicki Live From Bournemouth

    Zuffa Boxing 07 results are coming in live from Bournemouth International Centre in Bournemouth, Dorset, England, as the seventh event from Dana White’s boxing promotion will see the promotion’s first event outside the United States — let alone outside Las Vegas.

    The TKO Group-backed boxing league’s debut in England is headlined by Chris Billam-Smith taking on Ryan Rozicki in cruiserweight action.

    Joe Tessitore calls the action alongside analysts Max Kellerman and Andre Ward.

    How to Watch Zuffa Boxing 07

    • Date: Saturday, June 6, 2026
    • Venue: Bournemouth International Centre, Bournemouth, Dorset, England
    • Streaming: Paramount+ (exclusive)
    • Prelims: 11:30 AM ET / 8:30 AM PT
    • Main Card: 4:30 PM ET / 1:30 PM PT

    Zuffa Boxing 06 Results

    Preliminary Card (Paramount+, 12 PM ET)

    Welterweight – Alex MacMillan (3-0) vs. Leo Fanthome (7-2)

    Result: Alex MacMillan def. Leo Fanthome via TKO (Rd. 2, 1:44)

    Light Heavyweight – Leon Hughes (4-0) vs. Mario Vergiev (8-4)

    Result: Leon Hughes def. Mario Vergiev via TKO (Rd. 2, 0:52)

    Heavyweight – Harvey Dykes (7-0-1) vs. Ivan Dychko (15-1)

    Result: Ivan Dychko def. Harvey Dykes via split decision (97-92 x2, 94-95)

    Main Card (Paramount+, 2 PM ET)

    Middleweight – Sam Hickey (4-0) vs. Todd Tompkins (4-0)

    Result: Sam Hickey def. Todd Tompkins via KO (Rd. 2, 1:22)

    Middleweight – Stevie McKenna (15-1) vs. Casey James Streeter (15-3-2)

    Result: Stevie McKenna def. Casey James Streeter via TKO (Rd. 1, 1:04)

    Middleweight – Lee Cutler (15-2) vs. Aaron Sutton (19-2)

    Result: Lee Cutler def. Aaron Sutton via TKO (injury) (Rd. 3, 0:32)

    Cruiserweight – Jack Massey (23-3) vs. Cheavon Clarke (11-2)

    Result: Cheavon Clarke def. Jack Massey via TKO (Rd. 7, 1:24)

    Cruiserweight – Chris Billam-Smith (21-2) vs. Ryan Rozicki (21-1-1)

    Result: Chris Billam-Smith def. Ryan Rozicki via TKO (corner stoppage) (Rd. 7, 3:00)

  • Anthony Joshua Considering MMA Crossover Fight

    Anthony Joshua Considering MMA Crossover Fight

    Anthony Joshua wants to flip the combat sports crossover trend on its head. The former boxing heavyweight champion, who knocked out Francis Ngannou inside the boxing ring, says he is now seriously weighing a move into MMA to see how a boxer fares on the other side.

    “Believe me, I was thinking, why don’t I step over into one of their territories because they keep on coming to our territory?” Joshua said during an appearance on the Ring Magazine Mr Versace podcast.

    The 36-year-old framed the idea as a fair reversal, pointing out that fighters from other disciplines have repeatedly tested themselves in boxing while boxers rarely return the favor.

    “Obviously, this is big business. It’s big boxing, it’s heavyweight boxing. You are talking about the best in their chosen field. MMA, Kickboxing. These aren’t amateurs, these are actually experienced fighters. It would be good if one of us went into that side and see how we get on over there,” Joshua continued.

    Joshua Plans To Fight Until At Least 40

    The MMA talk carries weight because Joshua has no plans to walk away soon. He had previously teased retirement following his loss to Daniel Dubois, and a future away from the sport seemed likely after he survived a fatal car crash this past January.

    Instead, Joshua revealed he intends to keep competing until he is at least 40, leaving a multi-year window for a crossover bout.

    He also made clear that any MMA venture would need to be a marquee attraction. “100 percent (I’d want a big name opponent). So that means it’s big business then. MMA, kickboxing, or boxing. It can be done, I believe it should be done. I think that will be the next thing we want to see,” he said.

    A Reversal Of The Ngannou Crossover

    Joshua has already lived the crossover dynamic from the boxing side, welcoming former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou into the ring and stopping him in the second round.

    He acknowledged that a boxer entering MMA would not draw the same spectacle as an MMA fighter coming to boxing. “So even if let’s say, Anthony Joshua, speaking in third person, was to crossover into MMA, it wouldn’t be as big as them coming over to boxing. Boxing is just the pinnacle of combat sports,” he said.

    Boxing’s track record in MMA is thin. Former boxing champion James Toney remains the only major name to make the leap, losing to Randy Couture at UFC 118 in 2010.

    For now, Joshua’s focus stays on the squared circle. He is set to face Albanian contender Kristian Prenga on July 25, with a heavyweight clash against Tyson Fury lined up for the fourth quarter of the year.

  • Holly Holm Loses Majority Decision To Stephanie Han In Rematch And Believes She Was Robbed

    Holly Holm Loses Majority Decision To Stephanie Han In Rematch And Believes She Was Robbed

    Holly Holm lost a majority decision to Stephanie Han in their lightweight title rematch in El Paso on Friday night and expressed frustration with the scoring, saying she felt she clearly won the fight.

    “I feel like I was dictating the pace, I do feel like she won a few rounds, but not six. You have to win six rounds to win a ten round fight, I don’t give her six rounds and I feel it in my heart that I won, I’m a very honest and self-reflecting fighter. If I don’t feel I won then I’ll say it but I did.”

    Holm also pointed to the broader frustration of fighting in a sport where judges hold so much power.

    “Here’s what’s frustrating about it; a lot of these judges haven’t fought before. You leave a piece of yourself in there every time and then it’s just up to them to take it away from you if they want. Every fight you put so much into it. If I didn’t feel like I did enough, I wouldn’t be saying this. I feel I won the fight.”

    Despite the loss, Holm made clear she still wants the Katie Taylor fight.

    “I still want the big fights and to call out Katie Taylor, hopefully I can still do that.”

    Two judges scored the fight 96-94 for Han with one judge having it a draw. The original meeting between the two ended in a technical decision after a clash of heads caused a cut to Han. Holm, 44, is a Boxing Hall of Famer and a former UFC bantamweight champion.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

    But what followed is where confusion set in.

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Aspinall’s reaction was instant and emotional.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • Was Rico Verhoeven Robbed Against Oleksandr Usyk? Breaking Down The Controversial Stoppage At Glory In Giza

    Oleksandr Usyk walked away with his undefeated record intact, but his latest victory over Rico Verhoeven has sparked heavy debate following a controversial finish in Egypt.

    Fighting in front of the Pyramids of Giza for the WBC heavyweight title, “The Cat” secured a technical knockout at 2:59 of Round 11. However, the timing of the stoppage has quickly become the biggest talking point of the night.

    Verhoeven, competing in just his second professional boxing bout, delivered a surprisingly competitive performance against one of the sport’s most accomplished champions. With constant movement, size, and physical pressure, the Dutchman troubled Usyk for long stretches of the fight.

    In fact, heading into the championship rounds, many observers believed “King of Kickboxing” was either ahead or well within reach on the scorecards. Open scoring only added to the intrigue, as all three judges had the fight deadlocked at 76-76 after eight rounds.

    The challenger’s approach was clear. He targeted the body consistently, used his weight advantage in close exchanges, and disrupted Usyk’s rhythm with an awkward, mobile style. While Usyk had his moments, including a sharp uppercut in Round 4, Verhoeven repeatedly answered back and built momentum in the middle rounds.

    That momentum appeared to carry into the later stages until Round 11 changed everything.

    With less than 30 seconds remaining, Usyk landed a clean uppercut that sent Verhoeven to the canvas. The former kickboxing champion beat the count and got back to his feet, visibly shaken but still responsive. As the action resumed, Usyk pressed forward with a flurry of punches.

    Here’s where the controversy erupted.

    Despite “King of Kickboxing” remaining upright, with his guard partially intact and attempting to defend himself, the referee stepped in and waved off the fight with just one second left in the round. The abrupt stoppage immediately drew protests from Verhoeven and his corner, who believed he was denied the chance to survive the final moments and recover between rounds.

    Given how close the fight appeared to be, the decision left many questioning whether Verhoeven was unfairly robbed of a potential historic upset.

    “The Cat” improves to 25-0 with the victory, further cementing his legacy as one of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world. Verhoeven, now 1-1 in boxing, exits with his stock arguably rising despite the loss.

    In the aftermath, talk of a rematch has already surfaced, with interest building in giving Verhoeven another opportunity following a performance that exceeded nearly all expectations, even if it ended under a cloud of controversy.

  • Mizuki Hiruta Shuts Down Mai Soliman To Defend Titles At Glory In Giza

    Mizuki Hiruta successfully defended her WBO and Ring Magazine super flyweight titles with a composed and calculated performance against Mai Soliman at the “Glory in Giza” event.

    Fighting in front of a high-profile crowd in Egypt, Hiruta showcased her technical edge over the hard-hitting challenger, earning a unanimous decision victory with scores of 99-91 and 98-92 twice. The win marked her seventh successful title defense and kept her undefeated record intact at 11-0.

    From the opening round, the contrast in styles was clear. Hiruta relied on speed, movement, and volume, while Soliman looked to make her presence felt with power shots. Although the Egyptian-born Australian landed some eye-catching right hands early, Hiruta’s activity and precision allowed her to dictate the pace.

    As the fight progressed, Hiruta’s control became more pronounced. Using sharp footwork, she consistently moved in and out of range, stringing together combinations that kept Soliman on the back foot. While Soliman continued to search for openings, her opportunities grew increasingly limited against the champion’s disciplined approach.

    The challenger had her most effective stretch in the later rounds, particularly in the eighth, where she connected with several clean punches that briefly put Hiruta on the defensive. She attempted to build on that momentum heading into the ninth, again finding success with straight right hands.

    However, Hiruta weathered the pressure and quickly re-established control, closing out the fight with smart boxing to secure the decision.

    For Soliman, who entered the bout riding a six-fight winning streak with multiple stoppage victories, it was a tough but valuable experience against one of the division’s most refined operators. Her record now stands at 10-2, while Hiruta continues to strengthen her position as one of the leading names in the super flyweight division.

  • Rico Verhoeven Explains Why He Snubbed UFC For Massive Fight Against Oleksandr Usyk

    Rico Verhoeven had no shortage of options when he decided to walk away from GLORY as its long-reigning heavyweight champion. After more than a decade of dominance and an unbeaten run that made him one of the sport’s most recognizable figures, the Dutch star found himself at a crossroads.

    With his contract nearing its end, “King of Kickboxing” began exploring new opportunities, and interest came quickly. The UFC was among the promotions that showed serious intent, especially given his training experience alongside Tom Aspinall.

    During a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Verhoeven explained how the decision ultimately played out.

    “It’s been one hell of a ride, I can tell you that,” Verhoeven said. “I really felt like my GLORY contract was coming to an end, and I was like, we did it all. Kickboxing, it was just played out. From there on, we just started looking around and seeing what other opportunities were there.”

    Both MMA and boxing were legitimate paths at the time.

    “We were looking at UFC, we were looking at a big crossover in boxing, and both options were on the table,” he continued. “The boxing opportunity looked more interesting, so that’s the road we took.”

    That choice now leads “King of Kickboxing” to one of the most unique settings in combat sports. Verhoeven is scheduled to face Oleksandr Usyk this Saturday in Egypt, with the fight taking place in front of the Pyramids of Giza. The bout will see him challenge for Usyk’s WBC heavyweight title.

    Usyk enters the contest with an unblemished 24-0 professional record and is widely regarded as one of the greatest boxers of his era.

  • Floyd Mayweather Files $175 Million Bombshell Lawsuit Alleging Massive Fraud By Former Associate

    Floyd Mayweather Jr. is at the center of another major legal battle, this time alleging he was the victim of a long-running financial scheme that cost him a staggering $175 million.

    According to reports, including details obtained by TMZ Sports, Mayweather has filed a lawsuit in New York accusing former associate Jona Rechnitz, along with Ayal Frist, Frist Apex Ventures, and attorney Alexander Seligson, of orchestrating a complex fraud operation over several years.

    In the filing, “Money” claims Rechnitz gained his trust before effectively taking control of key financial dealings, including investments, banking activity, and real estate transactions. The lawsuit outlines multiple instances where large sums of money were allegedly diverted without his authorization.

    Among the claims, the undefeated boxing legend says he wired $7.5 million into an investment that never materialized, while another $15 million tied to a real estate settlement was transferred without his approval. He also alleges that more than $8.8 million from a $16.4 million loan involving four properties was redirected, with only $2.5 million reaching his promotional company.

    The suit further states that $2.1 million from an $8.2 million refinance of a Las Vegas property was sent to outside accounts without his consent. In another instance, a $1 million deposit intended for a New York property purchase was allegedly rerouted, causing the deal to collapse.

    One of the most striking accusations involves Mayweather’s jewelry collection. He claims nearly $100 million worth of pieces were handed over to jewelers for just $13 million, with a significant portion of the assets still unaccounted for.

    The lawsuit also raises questions about the fate of his private jet. The 49-year-old American alleges he unknowingly signed documents transferring ownership of his 1996 Gulfstream IV aircraft without a listed buyer and has no clarity on where the proceeds ended up.

    Through his legal team, “Money” is seeking at least $175 million in damages, along with a full financial accounting of the alleged transactions.

  • Floyd Mayweather Hit With $1M Child Support After Being Declared Father Of Strip Club Dancer’s Child

    Floyd Mayweather Jr. is facing a significant legal and financial ruling after being declared the father of a young child in a case that has been unfolding for several years.

    According to a report from TMZ Sports, a Nevada judge ruled in March 2026 that Mayweather is the legal father of a four-year-old girl, bringing clarity to a paternity dispute that dates back to 2023. The child’s mother, Paige Moorehead, had filed a petition seeking official recognition, alleging a long-term relationship with the boxing legend.

    Court documents indicate that “Money” was served multiple times and ordered to undergo DNA testing, but failed to comply. As a result, the judge issued a default judgment establishing paternity.

    The ruling comes with substantial financial obligations. Mayweather has been ordered to pay approximately $933,050 in back child support, along with ongoing monthly payments of $32,850. Reports state that he has only paid a portion of the amount so far, prompting the court to allow Moorehead to place a lien of up to $2 million on certain properties to secure the remaining balance.

    Moorehead claims she was involved with “Money” for several years before becoming pregnant in 2021, with the child later born in December of that year. She also alleged that their relationship ended shortly after she informed him about the pregnancy.

    The development adds to a growing list of legal matters surrounding the former world champion, who has remained active in the public eye despite retiring from professional competition years ago.

  • Alistair Overeem Issues Strong Warning To Rico Verhoeven About One Fighter He Should Never Face in MMA – ‘Stay Away From That’

    Alistair Overeem doesn’t believe a potential clash between Rico Verhoeven and Francis Ngannou would be competitive — and he’s urging the kickboxing star to stay far away from that matchup.

    Speaking during a recent appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show, the former UFC title challenger explained why Verhoeven’s skillset wouldn’t translate well into mixed martial arts against someone like Ngannou.

    “I think against Francis, he would not stand much of a chance,” Overeem said. “Just basically because he’s missing the wrestling and the submissions. He’s just not training that.”

    Overeem emphasized that the gap isn’t something that can be closed quickly, no matter how elite Verhoeven’s striking may be.

    “It takes years to develop that, and it shouldn’t be underestimated,” he continued. “You’re just not gonna catch up with those years of experience just like that in a training camp.”

    While Verhoeven has dominated kickboxing for years, Overeem believes stepping into the cage against a well-rounded heavyweight like Ngannou would be a completely different challenge.

    “Francis Ngannou is totally a no-go area,” Overeem added. “Stay away from that. Francis is clever. He’s just going to win the fight — and it would not even be a difficult fight.”

    Instead of pursuing MMA, Verhoeven has opted to test himself in boxing, where he is set to face Oleksandr Usyk at the “Glory in Giza” event in Egypt. The bout represents a massive opportunity for the longtime kickboxing champion to elevate his profile on a global stage.

    “The Predator”, meanwhile, has already shown his ability to transition between sports, recently returning to MMA competition on MVP’s debut event after a stint in boxing.

  • Mike Tyson Injury Throws Floyd Mayweather Exhibition Fight Plans Into Uncertain Territory

    Mike Tyson Injury Throws Floyd Mayweather Exhibition Fight Plans Into Uncertain Territory

    Plans for a crossover exhibition between Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather Jr. have been pushed back after an unexpected setback in training.

    The bout, which had originally been targeted for the spring with dates like April 25 and May 30 previously floated, is now expected to take place later this year. Promoters confirmed that the delay comes after Tyson suffered a hand injury while preparing for the contest.

    The former heavyweight champion had been seen wearing a cast on his right arm earlier this year, initially downplaying the issue as a minor problem.

    “Training, punching stuff. Just a little sprain, I have to go hard, it’s the only way I’ve got to go,” Tyson said during an appearance on The Ariel Helwani Show.

    However, it has since been clarified that the injury was more serious than first suggested, ultimately forcing organizers to postpone the event until the fall. While no official date or venue has been locked in yet, promoters have indicated that updated details will be announced soon.

    The exhibition itself has already experienced a complicated build, with shifting locations and timelines since it was first revealed. At one point, the fight was linked to a card in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, though those plans never materialized.

    Adding another layer of uncertainty is Mayweather’s own schedule. The undefeated boxing legend is currently expected to face Manny Pacquiao in a professional rematch later this year in Las Vegas, which could impact the eventual timing of the exhibition.

  • Who Is Mai Soliman? Everything To Know About Egyptian-Born Boxer’s Record Ahead Of Historic Glory In Giza Fight

    Mai Soliman is set to compete on one of the most unique fight cards in recent memory, stepping into the ring at the Pyramids of Giza on May 23.

    The Egyptian-born Australian will challenge Mizuki Hiruta for the WBO and The Ring super-flyweight titles as part of the “Glory in Giza” event, headlined by Oleksandr Usyk vs. Rico Verhoeven.

    For Soliman, the setting adds another layer. She was born just outside Cairo before moving abroad at a young age, and now returns to fight for her first world title on one of boxing’s most historic stages.

    Who Is Mai Soliman?

    Soliman is a 28-year-old super-flyweight boxer representing Australia, though her roots trace back to Egypt. She has built most of her professional career fighting on the Australian circuit, often competing at the Revesby Workers’ Club, far removed from the global spotlight she is about to step into.

    She enters this bout with an impressive 10-1 professional record, including six knockout victories.

    Her most recent outing came in November 2025, where she picked up a win over Jasmine Parr to extend her momentum heading into her first world title opportunity.

    The only setback in Soliman’s career came in September 2022, when she suffered a loss to Bec Moss. Since then, she has responded with a consistent run of wins to put herself in position for a world title shot.

  • Did Rousey vs Carano Just Break All-Time U.S. MMA Viewership Record? Numbers Might Surprise You

    Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano delivered massive numbers for its debut on Netflix, rewriting the record books in the United States.

    According to figures released by Most Valuable Promotions, the event averaged 9.3 million viewers in the U.S., with a peak of 11.6 million during the main event. That officially surpasses the long-standing benchmark set by Cain Velasquez vs Junior dos Santos on FOX in 2011, which drew 8.8 million viewers.

    Globally, the numbers were even more impressive. The card pulled in 12.4 million live viewers worldwide, with peak viewership reaching nearly 17 million as Ronda Rousey secured a quick submission victory over Gina Carano in just 17 seconds.

    Beyond viewership, the event also generated a $2.2 million gate and reportedly produced over one billion impressions across Netflix’s global platforms, signaling strong engagement beyond the broadcast itself.

    The card featured several notable names alongside the headline bout. Francis Ngannou made his return to MMA, while Mike Perry picked up a stoppage win over Nate Diaz, helping maintain momentum throughout the night.

    While the event did not reach the same scale as some of Netflix’s biggest boxing broadcasts, it still marked a significant step forward for MMA on the platform. Previous combat sports events featuring names like Anthony Joshua and Canelo Álvarez have posted larger figures, but few MMA cards outside the UFC ecosystem have approached this level of reach.

  • MVP Drops Hammer On Claressa Shields After Physical Altercation With Alycia Baumgardner At Rousey vs. Carano Event

    Claressa Shields has been barred from attending future events hosted by Most Valuable Promotions following a heated altercation with Alycia Baumgardner during last weekend’s high-profile fight card in California.

    The incident took place at the Rousey vs. Carano event at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, which marked MVP’s first MMA show in partnership with Netflix. According to multiple reports and video clips circulating online, tensions between the two champions escalated in a VIP area, where Shields appeared to make physical contact with Baumgardner during a verbal exchange.

    In response, MVP released a firm statement confirming disciplinary action against Shields.

    “Most Valuable Promotions is aware of the incident… involving physical contact by Claressa Shields toward Alycia Baumgardner,” the statement read. “MVP maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy for hostile, threatening, or aggressive behavior… Physical altercations outside the ring or cage are unacceptable.”

    The promotion went on to confirm that Shields is now banned from all future MVP events until further notice, emphasizing that her actions did not align with the standards they aim to uphold.

    “There is a time and a place for fighter tension and banter, but to physically attack a fellow athlete while there as a guest… is unacceptable,” the statement continued, while also acknowledging venue security for quickly stepping in and preventing further escalation.

    The rivalry between the two fighters had already been brewing on social media in the days leading up to the event, making their in-person confrontation unsurprising, though the situation quickly crossed a line.

    Shields later addressed the incident online, defending her actions and claiming she had been provoked, while Baumgardner responded with a brief but pointed message: “Checkmate.”

  • Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Goes No. 1 On Netflix Across North America As UFC Vegas 117 Records Lowest Numbers Of Paramount Era

    Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano Goes No. 1 On Netflix Across North America As UFC Vegas 117 Records Lowest Numbers Of Paramount Era

    It was a rare weekend where the UFC found itself sharing the spotlight, and the results turned out to be surprisingly one-sided.

    While the promotion staged UFC Vegas 117 at the Apex, a new player entered the scene with its debut event on Netflix. Headlined by Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano, the MVP MMA card drew significant attention across North America.

    Despite some criticism around matchmaking, the event still managed to generate strong viewership. According to analyst Dave Meltzer, the broadcast climbed to the No. 1 spot on Netflix in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Interestingly, the event was categorized under “movies” rather than sports or television, yet still performed well globally, even breaking into the top rankings worldwide.

    The timing makes the achievement more notable. The main event aired late on the East Coast, yet still attracted a wide audience, outperforming other major programming in the same category.

    The prelims, streamed for free on YouTube, also gained traction, reportedly reaching over 400,000 concurrent viewers at one stage. While exact figures remain unclear, the early signs suggest strong engagement for a first-time promotion.

    In contrast, the UFC’s offering that night struggled to gain similar momentum. UFC Vegas 117 reportedly delivered the lowest viewership of the promotion’s Paramount+ era, falling significantly below its usual benchmarks.

    Adding to the buzz, the MVP card featured recognizable names beyond its headline bout, including Francis Ngannou and Nate Diaz, helping drive curiosity among a broader audience.

  • MVP MMA: Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano Attendance Revealed, And It’s Not What Fans Thought

    The numbers are in for the first-ever MVP MMA event on Netflix, and they tell a very different story from what some viewers believed during the broadcast.

    The card, headlined by Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano, took place at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. While social media chatter suggested the arena looked sparse on TV, early attendance figures paint a much stronger picture.

    According to industry analyst Dave Meltzer, the event drew 15,795 fans inside the venue. The Intuit Dome typically holds over 18,000 spectators for combat sports events, meaning the show fell short of a sellout but still filled a significant portion of the building.

    “The idea that the building was empty was ludicrous, but it was not sold out,” Meltzer wrote, pushing back against claims that the turnout was disappointing.

    The perception of empty sections may have been influenced by the arena’s layout, which some fans say does not always translate well on camera. Despite that, the turnout stands as a notable achievement, especially for a promotion outside the UFC banner.

    For context, recent UFC events at the same venue have drawn similar paid attendance figures, highlighting that MVP MMA’s debut effort managed to compete in a space typically dominated by the sport’s biggest promotion.

  • Jake Paul Blasts Dana White Over Conor McGregor vs Max Holloway UFC 329 Announcement

    Jake Paul recently fired back at UFC President Dana White as the latter announced Conor McGregor’s return.

    The boxing promoter accused White of attempting to steal attention from his MVP’s debut MMA card.

    On Saturday, White went live on Instagram to officially announce McGregor’s Octagon return, confirming a July 11 main event clash against former rival Max Holloway at UFC 329. The announcement will serve as the headline attraction for this year’s International Fight Week.

    The timing raised eyebrows across the combat sports world. White’s reveal coincided exactly with Francis Ngannou’s walk to the cage at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California for his heavyweight bout against Philipe Lins on the undercard of the debut MVP MMA event streaming on Netflix.

    Jake Paul Accuses Dana White of Piggybacking Off MVP Event

    During the MVP MMA post-event press conference, Paul was asked about White’s announcement timing. The co-founder of Most Valuable Promotions didn’t hold back in his response.

    “Oh, the cokehead is back,” Paul said, according to LowKickMMA. “That’s cool, bro. Drop it during our event. Insecure boys trying to piggyback.”

    Paul appeared largely unfazed by the tactic despite fans and pundits anticipating White might attempt to divert attention from the MVP card. The boxing promoter has maintained an ongoing public feud with the UFC president, including past criticisms of fighter pay and UFC business practices.

    The MVP MMA debut event featured a card headlined by Ronda Rousey versus Gina Carano and streamed on Netflix.

  • UFC Star Arman Tsarukyan Jumps Barrier To Confront Namo Fazil After Heated Feud At Rousey vs Carano Card

    Arman Tsarukyan found himself at the center of controversy once again, this time during the Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano card in Los Angeles.

    The incident unfolded after Namo Fazil secured a submission victory over Jake Babian in the final preliminary bout. During his post-fight interview, Fazil used the moment to call out “Ahalkalakets”, signaling that tensions between the two had been building throughout fight week.

    Moments later, Tsarukyan, who was in attendance, reacted from the stands. Video circulating online shows the top UFC lightweight contender attempting to climb over the barrier before being stopped. He later made his way backstage, where he confronted Fazil again as both fighters exchanged heated words before security intervened.

    The bad blood stems from earlier comments Tsarukyan made during a livestream, where remarks about the Kurdish community sparked backlash. Fazil, who represents Kurdistan, responded publicly during the week, warning that the comments would not go unanswered.

    Despite the confrontation, the situation did not escalate into a physical altercation, with multiple people separating both camps.

    Tsarukyan’s actions have once again drawn attention away from his in-cage accomplishments. The No. 1 lightweight contender has not fought since his win over Dan Hooker in late 2025 and is still awaiting his next UFC booking.

    The 29-year-old Armenian is also set to serve as the backup fighter for the UFC Freedom 250 main event between Ilia Topuria and Justin Gaethje on June 14.

  • Ronda Rousey And Gina Carano Get Face-To-Face At Weigh-Ins

    Ronda Rousey And Gina Carano Get Face-To-Face At Weigh-Ins

    Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano delivered an intense faceoff at Friday’s ceremonial weigh-ins ahead of Saturday’s MVP MMA 1 main event on Netflix, with the two pioneers finally letting their competitive sides show after a respectful buildup.

    Rousey got right in Carano’s face during the staredown, millimeters separating the two. Carano met the energy, squaring up and going nearly nose-to-nose before dancing as they continued to hold eye contact.

    After the faceoff, Carano addressed the crowd and revealed she had lost 100 pounds to make weight for the fight.

    “I had no idea I could get down to 141. I got lighter than Ronda today. That was pretty cool. Live your dreams, don’t give up on yourself, do the hard thing. That was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, but here I am. That was the first victory. I’m going to give you another victory tomorrow night.”

    Rousey, who has confirmed this will be her final fight, took a moment to reflect on the occasion.

    “Usually, I’m just trying to skip through this part and get to the end, but man, it’s really cool to be here. Thank you guys for all coming out. This is my very last weigh-in. I’m glad you could all be part of it, and I can’t wait to kick some ass tomorrow.”

    Carano came in at 141.4 pounds at Friday morning’s official weigh-ins, with Rousey at 142. Both came in under the 146-pound featherweight limit. The two face off Saturday night at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.

  • 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.