MMA News

Category: MMA

  • Dana White’s Reaction To AI-Generated UFC Pound-For-Pound List After It Omits Jon Jones

    Dana White’s Reaction To AI-Generated UFC Pound-For-Pound List After It Omits Jon Jones

    Dana White was recently amused with an AI-generated list of UFC pound-for-pound (P4P) fighters, but he found the underlying concept quite intriguing.

    As the daily integration of AI technologies expands across nearly every field, leading to improved and more accurate results, their application in the sports world has become increasingly unavoidable.

    White has also previously conveyed his enthusiasm for integrating AI models, such as ChatGPT, into the UFC’s ranking system. He envisions a future where these advanced algorithms take precedence over the current rankings panel, which consists of media representatives from various outlets.

    During a recent interview with MMA journalist Kevin Iole, White’s vision gained momentum as he lambasted the rankings panel for failing to elevate Renato Moicano in the lightweight standings. This scrutiny came on the heels of “Money Moicano’s” commanding TKO victory via doctor’s stoppage against Benoît Saint Denis in the main event of UFC Fight Night Paris last weekend.

    “The rankings are definitely a problem,” White said. “Moicano, I agree with you 100 percent. But don’t worry my friend; AI will be here soon, and this will all be fixed. We get all these bums that know nothing about fighting out of this sh*t and get AI in here, and we can fix all these rankings.”

    White Shares Excitement About AI In UFC Rankings

    At the post-fight press conference for the latest episode of Dana White’s Contender Series on Tuesday night, the UFC head honcho was handed a ChatGPT-generated list ranking the top five pound-for-pound fighters in the organization by a reporter. The list featured Alexander Volkanovski leading the pack, followed closely by Islam Makhachev, Leon Edwards, Charles Oliveira, and Aljamain Sterling – completely omitting Jon Jones.

    “I don’t know what AI you’re using, MMA Junkie AI?” White joked. “When we get a real AI platform in place… I can’t wait.”

    White’s response to the AI-generated pound-for-pound rankings was not quite surprising, particularly given that the system omitted the reigning UFC undisputed heavyweight champion, Jon Jones. White has been quite outspoken in his belief that “Bones” holds the status of the greatest fighter of all time.

    • Read More: Jon Jones Reacts To Inclusion On Dana White’s MMA Mount Rushmore
  • Khalil Rountree Names What He Brings To The Table Different To Alex Pereira’s Former Opponents

    Khalil Rountree Names What He Brings To The Table Different To Alex Pereira’s Former Opponents

    Khalil Rountree comes into his first UFC title shot as a pretty sizable underdog at UFC 307, this weekend.

    In what will be his 15th time stepping inside the Octagon, he will challenge Alex Pereira for the light heavyweight title in Salt Lake City.

    A big reason why a lot of people believe that “Poatan” will retain his title on Saturday night is the style that his next challenger brings to the table.

    The #8-ranked contender finds himself in position for a title shot because he’s able to produce devastating knockouts with his striking skills which, ultimately, makes him an ideal match-up for Pereira because of his elite kickboxing background.

    Khalil Rountree Says That His Belief And Overall Ability As A Fighter Sets Him Apart

    Only Israel Adesanya has been able to defeat Pereira since the Brazilian entered the UFC and he did that whilst striking with “Poatan”.

    That being said, it’s hard for many to imagine Rountree out-striking the champion because though he’s very dangerous, he doesn’t have the same extensive kickboxing pedigree of either Adesanya or Pereira.

    In fact, the challenger believes that rather than his striking being better than the champion’s, it’s his overall ability as a fighter and current self-belief that makes him different to Pereira’s previous opponents.

    He is confident that this is the right time and place for him to capitalize on this opportunity, as he spoke about in a recent interview with ESPN MMA on fight-week.

    “It’s a little bit difficult for me to say this but I’m going to do this because I should. What makes me different is my overall ability compared to the guys that he’s fought. I feel like my strength and my athletic ability and my discipline, my skills, my experience, I think that like all of that kind of plays into me and my style and I don’t think that there’s been a fighter that is as like put together as I am and feel now.

    “I’ve been through a lot and I’ve spent my whole career in the UFC and this is the first time that like I can fully back myself. I don’t have to talk and yap and sometimes it’s uncomfortable for me to say, like I feel amazing. I am 100%, I have belief in myself and I don’t know who can present the same… the same stuff that I have right now. I don’t know, there’s just something that I feel in myself right now.”

    Read also: Kayla Harrison Brands Henry Cejudo ‘Asinine’ For Breakdown Of Ketlen Vieira Fight

  • ‘Out Of 8 Billion People He Picked A Former UFC Champion To Steal From’ – Fans React To Theft Of Michael Bisping’s Wife’s Bag

    ‘Out Of 8 Billion People He Picked A Former UFC Champion To Steal From’ – Fans React To Theft Of Michael Bisping’s Wife’s Bag

    During the UFC’s recent return to Paris, France this past weekend, commentator Michael Bisping looked to take in his surroundings during the work trip.

    However, as he revealed on social media, his leisure time was disrupted by a thief who attempted to run away with his wife’s bag.

    Little did the thief know that he was now going to have to outrun one of the UFC’s all-time great cardio machines.

    After tracking him down, the former UFC champion showed restraint, much to the benefit of the man that he had pursued.

    He told the story in a video posted on X, claiming that he left him with a swift kick “up the a**” before returning back with the bag.

    “Earlier today I had to stop a crime. Sitting there having breakfast with Rebecca in the streets of Montmartre, Paris and some little s*** snatches Rebecca’s bag, runs away. So I chase after him, get a hold of him, he had the bag already hidden in like a towel. Got the bag off him, he didn’t speak a word of English obviously. Didn’t do anything to him, got the bag back, he was s******* his pants, poor guy.”

    MMA Fans React To Michael Bisping Running After And Catching The Thief

    This situation could have ended very differently if Bisping wasn’t the type of person who was able to be calm in this moment.

    The thief likely has no idea what could have happened to him after he stole something from the wrong family, and could have been faced with “left hook Larry” as a result.

    MMA fans reacted on social media to Bisping’s retelling of events:

    “Bet the little thieving c*** was like this when Bisping stepped to him”

    “Out of 8 billion people he picked the a former ufc champion to steal from lmao. He wins the Darwin Award.”

    “Imagine being gripped up by a one-eyed, cauliflower eared mob boss looking UFC champion. He must’ve thought it would be his end.”

    “Glad you’re both ok and that you got her bag back. Those trail runs and good cardio came in handy.”

    “‘I didn’t…. *smirk* I didn’t do anything’”

    Read also: Kayla Harrison Brands Henry Cejudo ‘Asinine’ For Breakdown Of Ketlen Vieira Fight

  • Kayla Harrison Addresses Potential Amanda Nunes Return Stealing Title Shot Away From Her

    Kayla Harrison Addresses Potential Amanda Nunes Return Stealing Title Shot Away From Her

    Kayla Harrison is focused on earning her second win inside the Octagon when she returns this weekend at UFC 307.

    If the former PFL star is able to get past Ketlen Vieira in Salt Lake City, there will be no denying that she is the next contender in line.

    In fact, she had hoped to be fighting for the title in the fight that will happen later on in the night between the champion Raquel Pennington and Julianna Peña.

    There is potentially one scenario that could prevent this from happening, though, if a certain former champion decides that she wants her belt back.

    Kayla Harrison Says She’s Happy For Amanda Nunes To Cut The Line Only After She Is Champion

    Harrison has expressed some concern that Peña could hold the title up if she becomes champion this weekend because she isn’t the most active fighter on the roster.

    The other factor to consider is that if Peña does win the belt back against Pennington, there’s a trilogy fight with Amanda Nunes that she has been very vocal about getting.

    Nunes announced her retirement in June last year and vacated the title in the process, meaning that she would seemingly be granted a title shot if “The Lioness” decided to step back in.

    Harrison has spoken about welcoming Nunes back but obviously, her title shot may have to wait if the former champion calls next.

    In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Harrison said that she hopes this doesn’t happen, at least until she already has the belt in her hands.

    “Yeah I mean, I hope not. I just don’t think she’ll ever fight me so I don’t think that her cutting the line, beating up Peña again and taking another big payday and then leaving, like that would really p*** me off. So I hope that I fight for the title and then if she wants to come cut the line, she’s more than welcome.”

    Read also: UFC Vet ‘Feels Bad’ For Those Sharing A Division With Kayla Harrison: ‘I Don’t Think Anybody Has A Chance’

  • Dana White Not Keen On Alex Pereira’s Boxing Talk: ‘I Want Everybody To Stay In Their Own Lane’ 

    Dana White Not Keen On Alex Pereira’s Boxing Talk: ‘I Want Everybody To Stay In Their Own Lane’ 

    Alex Pereira may have risen to star status in the UFC, but he’s still not at the level to convince Dana White that a crossover boxing match would be a good idea.

    Pereira is currently in Utah gearing up for his latest defense of the light heavyweight title, which headlines the UFC 307 pay-per-view at Salt Lake City’s Delta Center this Saturday night.

    But while his reign and dominance in the cage continues, the former middleweight kingpin has also had his eyes elsewhere in recent times.

    During an interview with Kevin Iole, “Poatan” commented on White’s recent revelation regarding a move into the boxing realm. The UFC CEO warned the sport that he’s coming in “guns blazing,” and it sounds like Pereira wants to be on the front lines.

    “Honestly, man, I feel very good about this (White’s boxing venture),” Pereira said. “I like boxing. I’ve wanted to fight boxing and I’ve been saying this for a while. In the next few days, I’m going to release video footage of me sparring the best heavyweight boxer in Brazil, it was a few years ago but I believe I am much better now.”

    He later reiterated that sentiment while speaking to The Schmo.

    “Absolutely I want to express my will to go boxing one day,” Pereira stated. “I think that this partnership of the UFC and boxing is a very good thing going for the sport.”

    Unfortunately for the Brazilian, it would appear that White is not convinced…

    White Once Again Shares ‘Hatred’ For Crossover Fights Amid Pereira’s Boxing Tease

    During a recent interview with Kevin Iole, White was asked for his take on Pereira’s ambitions in the ring and whether his planned entry into boxing promotion could lead to the Brazilian having his wish granted.

    “I don’t know. I mean, when you look at where he’s at right now in his career, he’s at the top of this game, he’s about to break (Ronda Rousey’s) record if he wins the fight on Saturday night, and God knows what other records he could break here,” White said. “He’s 38 years old, which is even more impressive when you add that on top of anything else.

    “I don’t know (about boxing). I’m not even thinking about that kind of stuff,” White continued. “I’m not thinking about crossover fights. I hate crossover fights. I respect the fact that he wants to do it. I know there’s tons of other fighters that probably want to do it. But I want everybody to stay in their own lane.”

    For now, Pereira has business to attend to inside the Octagon.

    And should he extend his reign beyond the threat of Rountree this weekend, a possible middleweight return to challenge Dricus du Plessis has been teased. Meanwhile, the likes of Magomed Ankalaev continue to push for a shot at his 205-pound gold, leaving “Poatan” with plenty of options in MMA.

  • Vitor Belfort: Jake Paul, Mike Tyson Didn’t Want To Risk Career Fighting Me

    Vitor Belfort: Jake Paul, Mike Tyson Didn’t Want To Risk Career Fighting Me

    November 15 sees Mike Tyson return to the ring to face Jake Paul in what will undoubtedly be one of the most talked about fights of the year.

    Given the stature that both men bring to the table, getting the opportunity to share the ring with either of them is a huge opportunity for other fighters.

    One man that wants a piece of that action is MMA legend Vitor Belfort.

    After retiring from competing in the UFC back in 2018, Belfort has made the move over to boxing where he has had several bouts since. But despite being 47 years old, he believes that big name opponents still aren’t willing to fight him.

    Vitor Belfort Says That He Wants Either Paul Or Tyson But It Probably Won’t Happen

    The Brazilian legend has won both of his boxing contests since hanging up the MMA gloves, beating Evander Holyfield in an exhibition and fellow former UFC fighter Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza.

    In a recent interview with Inside Fighting, he claimed that though he would be open to the idea of stepping in against Paul or Tyson, it’s not likely to happen.

    It makes sense on his end but Belfort doesn’t believe that either man is willing to risk fighting him because of their own legacies.

    “I would love to do it but both guys didn’t want to fight me for sure but I would love to fight the winner. I just wish they can have a great fight but they don’t have the courage to bring that fight [to me]. I think that would be a great fight to put together but I think none of them wanted to risk their – how they can call – career or their legacy.

    “I’m in a stage of my life where for me to step up and fight someone, has to make sense for me, for the fans. I think the fans would love to see that but at the end of the day, Jake Paul fights who he wants to fight. He’s making the decision and I mean we’ll see what will be but I mean I can promise you, I think that fight is not going to happen.”

    Read also: Chael Sonnen: Khalil Rountree Won’t ‘Wilt’ To ‘Mike Tyson-esque Fear Factor’ Alex Pereira Has

  • Dan Hooker Makes Plans To Earn Conor McGregor Fight At BKFC Event In Spain

    Dan Hooker Makes Plans To Earn Conor McGregor Fight At BKFC Event In Spain

    After making his way back into the top rankings in the lightweight division, Dan Hooker is looking to pick the right fight this time around.

    “Hangman” admitted after this recent win over Mateusz Gamrot that the last time he was in this position, he made a mistake by agreeing to face Michael Chandler in less than ideal circumstances.

    Now he’s wanting to secure the fight that will put him into title contention, unless of course, something bigger comes around.

    Conor McGregor is without an opponent for his return now that Chandler will be facing Charles Oliveira at UFC 309, next month.

    Hooker, who would be more than happy to be the Irishman’s dance partner, just so happens to be in the same place as him next week.

    Dan Hooker Says He’s Hoping To See If Conor McGregor Wants The Fight When He’s In Spain

    McGregor is sure to be in attendance at the BKFC show in Marbella, Spain on October 12, after becoming a part owner of the promotion earlier this year.

    Hooker recently stated on an episode of Fox Sports’ mainevent that he will also be making the trip over.

    The City Kickboxing fighter had previously said that he would be cornering his friend Oscar Willis from The Mac Life in his bare-knuckle debut on that card.

    Considering that they’re likely to be in the same room, Hooker said that he may try to get a quick word in with the Irishman before heading back home.

    “I know that I’ve got a big fight coming up next but I am actually heading over to Bare Knuckle Fighting Championships in Spain next week which Conor McGregor so happens to own. So yeah, by the end of next week, hopefully get a chance to either just have a word to him and see if he’s interested in the fight.”

    Read also: Israel Adesanya Opens Up On Viral Car Altercation: ‘Within An Hour I Found Out Where He Lived…’

  • Kayla Harrison Brands Henry Cejudo ‘Asinine’ For Breakdown Of Ketlen Vieira Fight

    Kayla Harrison Brands Henry Cejudo ‘Asinine’ For Breakdown Of Ketlen Vieira Fight

    UFC bantamweight contender Kayla Harrison returns this Saturday night at UFC 307 to take on Ketlen Vieira in a huge fight for the division.

    Harrison has been working hard on her overall MMA game in recent years to make sure that she is able to compete in all areas.

    Every fight starts on the feet and developing her striking skills was always going to be an important part of her journey in the sport.

    Describing it as a process of no longer “faking it till you make it”, the former PFL star is confident in her all-round MMA abilities in comparison with her opponent.

    And as a two-time Olympic gold medallist in judo, there aren’t many people on the planet who can compete with her in her area of specialty either.

    Kayla Harrison Fires Back At Henry Cejudo Over Fight Prediction

    During their preview of the card on a recent episode of the Pound 4 Pound podcast, former UFC champions Henry Cejudo and Kamaru Usman predicted the fight between Harrison and Vieira.

    Cejudo made the case that with Vieira having some judo pedigree of her own, she might be able to keep the fight standing – where she could be a big problem for Harrison.

    This take wasn’t particularly well received by the #3-ranked contender, who gave her response in a recent interview with Submission Radio.

    Harrison believes that Cejudo’s point was meaningless due to the huge gap between a judo black belt and one of the all-time greats in the sport.

    “I don’t know why the hell they’re talking about a judo black belt making a difference like there are levels. That would be like me telling Henry, ‘Oh this kid wrestling in varsity in high school so you’re gonna struggle to take him down’. Benign. Asinine. That’s all right, I look forward to showing once again why Henry is a jealous little man.”

    Read also: UFC Vet ‘Feels Bad’ For Those Sharing A Division With Kayla Harrison: ‘I Don’t Think Anybody Has A Chance’

  • UFC Vet ‘Feels Bad’ For Those Sharing A Division With Kayla Harrison: ‘I Don’t Think Anybody Has A Chance’

    UFC Vet ‘Feels Bad’ For Those Sharing A Division With Kayla Harrison: ‘I Don’t Think Anybody Has A Chance’

    A longtime UFC fan favorite is high on Kayla Harrison, so much so that he doesn’t see anybody in the bantamweight division being able to beat her.

    Harrison, a two-time title winner under the PFL banner, will feature on the main card of this weekend’s UFC 307 pay-per-view in Salt Lake City, Utah, where she’s set to make her second outing inside the Octagon.

    After establishing herself as a dominant force outside MMA’s leading promotion, Harrison got her pursuit of gold in the UFC underway in strong fashion this past April with a submission win over former champ Holly Holm.

    To secure a likely title shot down the line, the 34-year-old former judoka is next tasked with getting the better of #2-ranked contender Ketlen Vieira in the “Beehive State.”

    And by the sounds of things, recently retired UFC veteran Matt Brown has little doubt about who will have their hand raised in that matchup…

    Brown On Harrison Joining BW Division: ‘If I’m The Champion, I’m Retiring’

    During the latest episode of MMA Fighting’s The Fighter vs. The Writer, Brown discussed Harrison’s successful arrival into the UFC women’s bantamweight division earlier this year.

    Having seen the manner with which the Ohio native dispatched Holm, “The Immortal” doesn’t see anybody on the roster at 135 pounds capable of halting Harrison’s charge.

    “I feel bad for the girls in that division. If I’m the champion, I’m retiring. If I’m Raquel Pennington or I’m Julianna Peña and I win the fight, I’m out. I’m pulling an Eddie Bravo here. Win the big one and I’m done,” Brown said. “I wasn’t quite as big of a believer until the way I watched her beat Holly Holm. Because I just didn’t know about the weight cut, and how she was going to perform (after) the weight cut, and sometimes people change when they come to the UFC. They’re just not what we thought they were when they were in a different organization.

    “I think she answered every question very clearly. She’s going to come in, and I don’t think anybody has a chance against her,” Brown continued. “We’re on the way to the Kayla Harrison era. I think she wrecks everybody in that division, including Amanda if she comes back. I don’t think anybody stands a chance against Kayla. I think she is a major problem for everybody in there. … She is an absolute terror for this division.”

    Harrison will look to prove Brown right come fight night in Salt Lake City this weekend, when she shares the card with another “terror” in UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira.

    The pair recently got familiar with one another on the mats, with Harrison teaching “Poatan” some judo moves. Her ability to take the Brazilian down is perhaps strong evidence for Brown’s prediction of dominance for the two-time Olympic gold medalist at 135 pounds.

  • VIDEO: PFL Releases Destructive Trailer For Francis Ngannou’s MMA Return

    VIDEO: PFL Releases Destructive Trailer For Francis Ngannou’s MMA Return

    The build-up toward Francis Ngannou’s MMA return and Professional Fighters League (PFL) debut has picked up with the official trailer for the upcoming pay-per-view event.

    For the first time since January 2022, Ngannou will make the walk for a mixed martial arts contest on October 19 in Saudi Arabia. There, the former UFC champion will collide with Renan Ferreira in the main event of the “Battle of the Giants” card.

    Since defending the UFC gold against Ciryl Gane over two years ago, Ngannou’s combat sports outings have come inside the ring, where he threw down with two heavyweight greats in Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

    While he took “The Gypsy King” to the limit, he was brutally knocked out by “AJ” earlier this year, and his sights are now back on the cage for the time being.

    PFL Releases ‘Official Trailer’ For Ngannou vs. Ferreira

    Ahead of Ngannou’s debut in the SmartCage, which comes 17 months on from his signing with the PFL, an “official trailer” has been released.

    The cinematic video has a Godzilla vs. Kong look to it, with Ngannou and Ferreira taking out a city amid their “Battle of the Giants.”

    While all eyes will be on “The Predator” as he returns to MMA action in the main event, a number of intriguing bouts are set for the undercard.

    That includes another major debut, with Bellator Women’s Featherweight Champion Cris Cyborg colliding with two-weight PFL title winner Larissa Pacheco in the co-headliner.

    Gold will also be on the line on the main card, as Bellator Middleweight Champion Johnny Eblen and Fabian Edwards run it back following the postponement of their scheduled rematch in London last month.

  • Chael Sonnen: Khalil Rountree Won’t ‘Wilt’ To ‘Mike Tyson-esque Fear Factor’ Alex Pereira Has

    Chael Sonnen: Khalil Rountree Won’t ‘Wilt’ To ‘Mike Tyson-esque Fear Factor’ Alex Pereira Has

    Former UFC title challenger Chael Sonnen doesn’t think Khalil Rountree will be buying into the reputation that precedes Alex Pereira whenever he enters the Octagon.

    Rountree is days away from the biggest fight of his career to date, as he gears up to headline a pay-per-view and compete with gold on the line for the very first time at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    If “The War Horse” is to continue his winning form all the way to the light heavyweight throne, he’ll have to unseat Pereira. That’s a task that former champions Jamahal Hill and Jiří Procházka have both failed to achieve in 2024.

    Destructive performances against “Sweet Dreams” and “BJP” have only enhanced Pereira’s status as one of the promotion’s most feared knockout artists.

    But when it comes to how opponents handle such a reputation, Sonnen doesn’t expect Rountree to be one who “wilts” come fight night…

    Sonnen: Rountree A ‘Real Problem’ For Pereira

    During the latest episode of his Good Guy / Bad Guy show alongside Daniel Cormier on ESPN MMA’s YouTube channel, Sonnen reiterated his belief that an upset could be brewing in Salt Lake City.

    In part, that’s down to the mindset of Rountree. According to “The American Gangster,” the challenger won’t crumble to the “fear factor” Pereira has developed in the way that others in the division would.

    “I’m telling you, Daniel, every upset has a couple of commonalities. This fight, you’ve got to keep your eyes on it,” Sonnen said. “Number one battle Khalil’s got is to show up and fight. Pereira’s gonna get to a point where guys don’t do that.

    “Pereira is entering that Mike Tyson-esque fear factor, where guys are going to wilt in the back. I just don’t believe that’s Khalil,” Sonnen continued. “I think Khalil’s got one more good one in him. I think he can overcome this, and I think he is a real problem for Pereira.”

    Rountree’s history of violent knockouts may also have created a “fear factor” behind his own striking game. And that might especially be the case for kickboxing standouts given “The War Horse’s” habit of stalling their charges inside the cage.

    It remains to be seen whether history will repeat itself in that regard this Saturday.

  • Dana White’s Contender Series Season 8, Week 8 Highlights As 5 Prospects Secure Contracts

    Dana White’s Contender Series Season 8, Week 8 Highlights As 5 Prospects Secure Contracts

    The latest season of Dana White’s Contender Series continued with some memorable highlights on Tuesday night in Las Vegas.

    DWCS, the inaugural season of which took place back in 2017, sees some of the top prospects in mixed martial arts enter the cage in front of White and the matchmakers, looking to put in a performance worthy of a place on the UFC roster.

    Last year’s edition saw 46 fighters bag a deal with the sport’s premier promotion across 10 events, up on the 43 from 2022. Through seven episodes of season eight, 29 prospects moved a step closer to their title dreams on MMA’s biggest stage.

    And the eighth added another five talents to the UFC roster. That included Kazakhstan’s Diyar Nurgozhay, who delivered the highlight of the night by knocking out Bartosz Szewczyk in the final fight.

    There were three other finishes on the card, all of which earned the victors contracts. Torrez Finney secured his at the third time of trying after stopping Abdellah Er-Ramy with strikes in round one. While Jacobe Smith delivered a similar TKO to open the card, the highly touted Alberto Montes locked in an anaconda choke to put Carlos Calderon away by way of submission.

    David Martinez’s win came in the only bout that required the scorecards, but that didn’t stop him from joining sister Melissa Martinez on the UFC roster.

    With that in mind, see below for the moments that landed five athletes contracts with the UFC.

    Jacobe Smith Def. Christien Savoie Via TKO (Strikes): R2, 2:55

    Torrez Finney Def. Abdellah Er-Ramy Via TKO (Punches): R1, 4:10

    David Martinez Def. Xavier Franklin Via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

    Alberto Montes Def. Carlos Calderon Via Submission (Anaconda Choke): R2, 2:38

    Diyar Nurgozhay Def. Bartosz Szewczyk Via KO (Head Kick): R2, 3:32

  • Jon Jones’ Coach On Not Fighting Tom Aspinall Next: ‘Stipe Miocic Deserves Better…’

    Jon Jones’ Coach On Not Fighting Tom Aspinall Next: ‘Stipe Miocic Deserves Better…’

    Jon Jones’ coach, Greg Jackson, recently explained why his star pupil is slated to face Stipe Miocic next rather than Tom Aspinall.

    “Bones” is preparing for what could be both the first and final defense of his undisputed heavyweight title as he faces former champion Miocic in the headlining bout of UFC 309. The highly anticipated showdown is set for November 16 at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City.

    This matchup has been a priority for Jones since his heavyweight debut in March 2023. He’s even considered retiring after potentially defeating Miocic, widely regarded as the greatest heavyweight champion.

    The Jones vs. Miocic matchup has faced considerable backlash from the MMA community, with many arguing that interim heavyweight champion Aspinall, who is also the backup fighter, is the rightful challenger.

    Some have even suggested that Jones should remain available after UFC 309 for a title unification bout. However, “Bones” has consistently dismissed the prospect, making it clear he has no interest in facing Aspinall.

    Jackson Defends Jones vs. Miocic Matchup: ‘It’s Really Two Legends Fighting Each Other’

    During a recent episode of the WEIGHING IN podcast, Jackson was prompted to shed light on Jones’ fervor to face Miocic next, rather than focusing on rising contenders like Aspinall or Curtis Blaydes.

    The Jackson’s MMA Acoma founder elaborated that this fight represents a legacy moment for “Bones.” He emphasized that while there will always be emerging challengers, the upcoming bout at UFC 309 is a legendary clash aimed at determining who truly stands out among the elite.

    “I think because Stipe is so legendary—I mean, the guy’s one of the best heavyweights,” Jackson said. “You could argue he’s one of the best heavyweights ever—so I think that’s the challenge that Jon needs because there’s always going to be young guys coming up, there’s always going to be a new phenom, and there’s always going to be another guy that’s like, ‘Oh, this guy’s super tough.’ So I think the attraction for Jon in that is it’s really two legends fighting each other.”

    Jackson further emphasized that Jones has accomplished so much in his career that he no longer feels the need to validate himself against any competitor; he can choose whoever he wants to fight.

    “At this point in Jon’s career, he doesn’t need to fight; he could stop today and be fine. But I think that gets him up for Stipe—the idea of Stipe and how great he is, and how tough he is, and to compete against that. I think he’s looking for a legacy thing, in my opinion… I do know that we had this fight locked up before any of that drama happened, so to me, it would be a terrible move to tell Stipe, ‘Oh, never mind, we’re not gonna fight you after all; we’re gonna go after this guy.’ I mean, Stipe deserves better than that. He’s not only a great fighter but also a great guy.”

    Jones was last active when he captured the heavyweight title by submitting Ciryl Gane at UFC 285. He was scheduled to fight Miocic at UFC 295 last November, but “Bones” was forced to withdraw just days before the bout due to a pectoral injury.

  • Israel Adesanya Opens Up On Viral Car Altercation: ‘Within An Hour I Found Out Where He Lived…’

    Israel Adesanya Opens Up On Viral Car Altercation: ‘Within An Hour I Found Out Where He Lived…’

    Israel Adesanya recently broke his silence on the viral confrontation he had with a passerby on the streets of Auckland, New Zealand.

    Last month, a video emerged on social media showing the former UFC middleweight champion in an intense exchange with an individual on the streets. The confrontation quickly escalated into a heated, expletive-filled argument, during which Adesanya could be seen spitting in the direction of the person.

    While the exact cause of the wrangle remains unclear, TMZ reported that the unidentified individual in the video approached “The Last Stylebender” as he was parking his vehicle on K Rd. The person allegedly hurled the N-word at the UFC superstar and even challenged him to a fight. Fortunately, the situation didn’t escalate into a physical confrontation.

    Picking a fight with a trained MMA fighter—especially someone of Adesanya’s caliber—would be a terrible decision for any ordinary person. If the Nigerian-born Kiwi had chosen to, he could have easily wiped the floor with the heckler.

    However, “The Last Stylebender” had a very specific reason for holding back and choosing not to engage physically with the individual.

    Adesanya Reveals He Avoided Escalating Confrontation With Heckler To Prevent Street Violence

    During a recent appearance on the Adam Carolla Show, Adesanya recounted the now-viral street encounter with the provocateur. The Auckland native explained that he was making a quick stop at an eatery when the individual suddenly confronted him, challenging him to a fight—a move Adesanya suspects was a setup.

    “The Last Stylebender” remained relatively composed and didn’t take the situation too seriously but admitted that if the person had invaded his personal space, he would have been forced to defend himself. However, he held back, explaining that the tragic death of his City Kickboxing teammate, Fau Vake, who was killed in a senseless road rage incident in 2021, made him determined not to let the situation escalate into violence.

    “When he pulled up in front of the car, I was just like, ‘Okay, if this guy breaches my [space], then I have to attack him,’” Adesanya said. “But I had a good day; I was in a good mental space, and I gave him a lot of grace because one of our teammates, Fau Vake, got killed by senseless street violence. He got coward-punched by a d*ckhead, and he’s dead now. So in the moment, I knew if I hit this guy, he’s going to hit his head because it’s a sloped street. He’s going to fall down, hit his head on the concrete, and probably bleed out.”

    Adesanya further mentioned that he never took the individual seriously from the start of their verbal exchange, admitting he found the entire situation amusing and couldn’t help but chuckle throughout the encounter.

    “”I was like, what the f**k, and I was laughing, so I think me laughing kind of p*ssed him off. Then him flexing and all that—look, within an hour I found out where he lived. It’s my city, but again, I think Karma will get him.”

    “The Last Stylebender” is enduring the most difficult stretch of his career, having faced consecutive losses for the first time. Adesanya’s effort to reclaim the UFC middleweight title fell short against reigning champion Dricus Du Plessis, succumbing to a fourth-round submission at UFC 305 in August.

  • CSAC Release Video Featuring Urijah Faber On New MMA Rules From November 1

    CSAC Release Video Featuring Urijah Faber On New MMA Rules From November 1

    The California State Athletic Commission (CSAC) recently teamed up with UFC veteran Urijah Faber and seasoned referee Mike Beltran to demonstrate the upcoming MMA rule changes, which are set to take effect in fights starting November 1.

    In July, the Association of Boxing Commissions and Combative Sports (ABC) officially lifted the ban on twelve-to-six (12-6) elbow strikes, alongside revising the definition of a “grounded opponent” under the MMA Unified Rules.

    In the video, Faber, alongside another fighter, demonstrated how the updated definition of a “downed” opponent affects the legality of kicks and knees to the head. Under the new Unified Rules, a fighter is considered grounded—and thus protected from head strikes by knees or kicks—when any part of their body, aside from their hands or feet, touches the mat.

    Previously, a fighter was considered grounded if they had at least one hand on the mat, along with any other part of their body, and were also making contact with the floor.

    Later in the clip, Beltran explained the changes to what were once considered illegal elbow strikes. Under the new rules, the 12-6 elbow strike is now permitted in fights. This move is defined as a “straight up, straight down” motion targeting a grounded opponent. It involves the fighter raising their arm to the 12 o’clock position and driving it down forcefully in a vertical line to the 6 o’clock position.

    One of the most famous examples of a fight being stopped due to 12-6 elbows occurred during Jon Jones’ bout with Matt Hamill on The Ultimate Fighter season 10 in December 2009.

    In the final moments of round one, “Bones” unleashed the controversial strikes on Hamill, leading referee Steve Mazzagatti to step in and stop the fight. The disqualification resulted in what remains the only mark on Jones’ otherwise unblemished record.

    • Read More: Daniel Cormier Explains Why He Opposes 12-6 Elbows: ‘The Moment We Start Opening Those Rules…’

  • Khalil Rountree Wants To Honor Murdered Father’s Name At UFC 307

    Khalil Rountree Wants To Honor Murdered Father’s Name At UFC 307

    Khalil Rountree Jr. recently shared his determination to pay tribute to his late father by securing a victory at UFC 307.

    “The War Horse” has a chance to bring his dreams to life as he prepares to challenge reigning UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira this weekend at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    Rountree Jr. has been a fixture on the UFC roster since 2016, delivering numerous highlight-reel performances. However, many MMA fans may not be familiar with his personal journey. The Ultimate Fighter season 23 alum carries a legacy tied to his father, Roderick Khalil Rountree, who was a road manager for the iconic music group Boyz II Men.

    Tragically, in May 1992, when “The War Horse” was just two years old, his father was murdered by three armed robbers at the Gold Coast hotel in Chicago.

    The unfortunate demise of his father cast a shadow over Rountree Jr.’s early years, leading him down a dark path of substance abuse that nearly cost him his life. Struggling to cope, he seemed headed for self-destruction before discovering MMA, which became the key to turning his life around.

    Rountree Fights To Honor His Father & Sees UFC Title As Perfect Tribute

    During a recent interview with New York Post Sports, Rountree Jr., revealed that his path into fighting was driven by a deep need to pay tribute to his late father. The Californian expressed that this title shot is the culmination of a lifetime of hard work and dedication. He sees this opportunity as a moment to bring new honor to his family’s legacy, especially in memory of his father.

    “I think, for me, it’s everything that I’ve worked for, really. Not knowing my dad growing up, but knowing what happened to him,” Rountree Jr. said. “I always just wanted to — or, not always, but there came a time, especially when I started fighting, that I wanted to honor him and make something of myself so that I can imagine him looking down and being proud.”

    “Like ‘wow, my son was this kid that had no courage and locked himself inside his room’ to — ‘wow, this guy’s fighting lions in the cage for a world championship.’ So it’s really big, and I’m so excited for this moment and just to be able to be in this situation to bring more honor and more light to the work that my father did and also the work that I’ve put in.”

    “The War Horse” is currently on an impressive five-fight winning streak, with his last appearance in the Octagon being a third-round knockout of Anthony Smith in December 2023. Rountree Jr. faced a setback this past May when he was handed a 4.5-month ban after testing positive for a steroid hormone. However, the suspension was lifted on September 18.

    • Read More: Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307
  • ‘They Don’t Want One More Belt To Go To Dagestan’ – Fans React After Highlight Reel Disproves “Poatan” Calling Ankalaev ‘Boring’

    ‘They Don’t Want One More Belt To Go To Dagestan’ – Fans React After Highlight Reel Disproves “Poatan” Calling Ankalaev ‘Boring’

    The UFC light heavyweight title is on the line this weekend in UFC 307 but to the surprise of some fans, it will not be Magomed Ankalaev serving as the challenger.

    Instead, Alex Pereira will be defending his title against the #8-ranked Khalil Rountree in a clash of two of the division’s most exciting strikers.

    Though there’s an argument to be made for Rountree being more active and coming into the fight on a great run of finishes, many expected Ankalaev to be the one standing opposite Pereira at UFC 307.

    The #2-ranked contender is unbeaten since his UFC debut back in 2018 but will instead be facing Aleksandar Rakić later this month at UFC 308.

    Those who agree with the decision to book Rountree as the next challenger, instead, will often divert to the argument that Ankalaev isn’t the most exciting fighter to watch, a point that Pereira has also made in the past.

    MMA Fans React To Magomed Ankalaev’s Underrated UFC Highlight Reel

    A video posted on social media showcased some of Ankalaev’s finishes inside the Octagon as proof that he isn’t the boring fighter that Pereira has labelled him as.

    For a Russian contender that has a strong grappling game, he isn’t afraid to strike with his opponents and has always been a dangerous fighter on the feet.

    In fact, 10 of his 18 wins as a pro are by knockout with 6 coming in the UFC.

    The video shows some stellar finishes including his latest win over Johnny Walker and the front kick that he landed against Dalcha Lungiambula back in 2019.

    MMA fans reacted to the highlight reel on social media and the mislabeling of Ankalaev’s style as ‘boring’.

    “UFC is saving Pereira from Ankalaev .. more like they don’t want one more belt to go Dagestan ..!”

    “Honestly ankalaev is far from boring, not sure how that narrative got placed on him”

    https://twitter.com/blondedmma/status/1840825715786178940

    “Third most KO in LHW history, great striker who refuses to wrestle most of the time. Anyone who says he’s boring is just biased against DGestanis”

    “I think when people say boring, they’re referring to his personality. idk”

    “People see the beard and assume another Kahbib clone.”

    Read also: Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

  • Renato Moicano Placed In Same Conversation As McGregor, Adesanya, & O’Malley: ‘He’s Doing That Good Of A Job…’

    Renato Moicano Placed In Same Conversation As McGregor, Adesanya, & O’Malley: ‘He’s Doing That Good Of A Job…’

    At 35-years old, Renato Moicano is on the best run of his career and really seems to have hit his stride in the lightweight division.

    The Brazilian has been a member of the UFC roster since 2014 and has stepped foot inside the Octagon 17 times, but it’s really in the last couple years that he has emerged as a major player.

    His latest appearance this past weekend saw him compete in his first main event where he delivered his most impressive display to date, stopping Benoît Saint-Denis in Paris before the third round could get underway.

    As he looks to secure a huge fight next time out, Moicano’s stock is only continuing to climb but the question is how much further can it go?

    Chael Sonnen Says Renato Moicano Is Capturing The Attention Of The Fans Like A Superstar Does

    Moicano’s profile has also increased because alongside this current run of form, his personality has really started to come across on the mic.

    Whether it’s in post-fight interviews or his YouTube content, the “Money” Moicano persona is that larger-than-life personality that is going to turn heads.

    Of course, none of that matters if you aren’t backing it up inside the cage and he’s covering that base very effectively.

    During a recent episode of the Good Guy / Bad Guy show on ESPN MMA, Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen reviewed all the action from Paris.

    Sonnen, who was extremely impressed by Moicano and knows a thing or two about getting over on the mic, said that the Brazilian is capturing that star quality which is a rare occurrence in MMA.

    “Moicano is just covering all aspects of this sport. You generally can only monetize one thing. Your only commodity that you offer the sport is your performance but there is other opportunities if you can find them and that’s where Moicano, “Suga” Sean, Izzy Adesanya, for example, these guys have found another way. Conor McGregor. That’s a very elite company and to put Moicano’s name in the same conversation as Izzy and Conor and Sean, Daniel, I’m not out of bounds here, he’s doing that good of a job.”

    Read also: Renato Moicano Plans To Prove He’s The Best UFC Lightweight: ‘Even If Khabib Comes Back…’ 

  • Alex Pereira On Difference Between Past Fights & UFC 307: ‘Now I Understand This Game’ 

    Alex Pereira On Difference Between Past Fights & UFC 307: ‘Now I Understand This Game’ 

    He may have already achieved champion status in two UFC divisions and continues to rule over the light heavyweight class through two successful defenses, but Alex Pereira insists he is still continuing to evolve as a mixed martial artist.

    Since a brief reign at middleweight, Pereira has emphatically conquered some of the top names at 205 pounds. In four fights, “Poatan” has defeated three former champions in Jan Błachowicz, Jiří Procházka, and Jamahal Hill.

    And after successfully retaining possession of the belt on two occasions this year thus far, Pereira will return for his third defense at UFC 307 in Utah this weekend, where the challenge of Khalil Rountree awaits him.

    Having held titles in two weight classes and established himself as a top name toward the top of the pound-for-pound ladder, some would be forgiven for forgetting that Pereira is just 13 fights and four committed years into his MMA career.

    With that in mind, the Brazilian’s success has come alongside his continued growth in the sport. And as he approaches his latest outing in the cage, a further evolved “Poatan” is feeling better than ever.

    Pereira Touts ‘Significant Strides’ In UFC 307 Camp

    During episode one of the UFC 307 Embedded: Vlog Series, Pereira looked ahead to his third Octagon outing in quick succession.

    While he’s not had much time to breathe between defenses in 2024, the Brazilian kickboxing specialist and his team have still spoken highly about the progress made behind the scenes.

    And in that regard, “Poatan” has seemingly had his best camp to date.

    “This camp I’ve made significant strides in my overall progress and my preparation,” Pereira said. “Like I said to Glover, ‘Now I understand this game.’ And he replied, ‘I can see that.’ So it seems like something has clicked. I feel very confident and great.

    Pereira will look to show those improvements come fight night in the “Beehive State” this weekend, where yet another successful title defense in 2024 could leave his case for Fighter of the Year undeniable.

  • Daniel Cormier Admits He ‘Preferred’ That UFC Paris Fighter Suffered Brutal Knockout Rather Than Decision Loss

    Daniel Cormier Admits He ‘Preferred’ That UFC Paris Fighter Suffered Brutal Knockout Rather Than Decision Loss

    There were some huge highlights from the UFC’s return to Paris this past weekend but none caught the eye as much as the main card opener.

    Fares Ziam has continued to improve during his time on the roster but on home soil, he secured his biggest win and highlight to date.

    The French fighter was dominant against Matt Frevola but sealed his fourth consecutive win in the lightweight division with a devastating knee.

    Frevola knew that he needed to try and make something big happen to turn the fight around and as a result, was knocked out inside the Accor Arena.

    Daniel Cormier Says He Would Prefer What Happened To Matt Frevola Over Decision Verdict

    In their recap of the weekend’s action, Daniel Cormier had a bold take on this fight during the latest episode of ESPN MMA’s Good Guy / Bad Guy with Chael Sonnen.

    “DC” made a point to say that he likes when corners are honest with their fighters about how the fight is going, which is a fair observation to make regarding this bout.

    “Every time a guy’s losing two rounds to zero Chael and sometimes the coach goes, ‘Oh it might be one-to-one, it’s very close.’ And then there’s the other coach that goes, ‘You’re down two, we got to finish this guy.’ And I’m like, that’s the coach I love. I love that he tells his guy the truth.”

    However, where some people may disagree with Cormier’s approach is him stating that he would prefer what happened in this fight over Frevola losing the third round and therefore the decision.

    “I prefer what happened to Frevola than him going out there and just losing by decision and really not showing no oomph.”

    Of course, showing desire to go out there and pull off the win is important but that also can lead to significant damage, like what happened with Frevola.

    He did try to go out there and make a big impact in the third and final round but as a result, he was knocked out cold rather than being on the wrong end of a decision.

    “Leaves openings, that happens, it is what it is, people get knocked out but you give yourself an opportunity because we have seen on so many different occasions where the guy overcomes and wins a third period to win the fight.”

    Read also: Raquel Pennington: UFC Staff Told Me They ‘Love’ To See Julianna Peña Get Beat Up

  • Renato Moicano Plans To Prove He’s The Best UFC Lightweight: ‘Even If Khabib Comes Back…’ 

    Renato Moicano Plans To Prove He’s The Best UFC Lightweight: ‘Even If Khabib Comes Back…’ 

    UFC lightweight contender Renato Moicano wants to make his case to be the best fighter at 155 pounds undeniable.

    Moicano advanced his ambitions on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage with a strong performance in Paris, France this past weekend, where he headlined in enemy territory opposite Benoît Saint Denis.

    The Brazilian got out the blocks fast, taking “God of War” down and inflicting a brutal beatdown on the Frenchman. While Saint Denis was able to enjoy a better second frame, the damage he sustained in round one was ultimately too much and led to the doctor’s stoppage.

    That result marked the latest triumph in a strong year for Moicano, who has defeated Drew Dober, Jalin Turner, and now Saint Denis since returning from injury.

    And with a title to win and a new house to pay for, the 35-year-old says not even a comeback from the division’s greatest could stall his surge…

    Moicano ‘Coming For The Gold’ After UFC Paris

    While appearing on ESPN MMA’s UFC Fight Night Post Show in Paris, Moicano reflected on his victory inside the Accor Arena and looked ahead to what could lie ahead of him at 155 pounds.

    The confident Brazilian reiterated his belief that his recent improvements have given him superiority over the entire division. And with his motivations branching beyond just a planned championship crowning, Moicano says he can’t be stopped.

    “I was expecting a complete beatdown like I did. … I don’t want to sound too cocky. But I have been training for that,” Moicano said. “You guys, be ready. ‘Money’ Moicano is coming for the gold. … Right now, I am the best 155er in the division. I just have to prove it.

    “I cannot afford to lose. I have a house to pay. … I want to see my kid grow in a great backyard with a pool,” Moicano continued. “Until the house is paid, until my debt is paid, I cannot afford to lose. It doesn’t matter even if Khabib will come back. I will beat Khabib.”

    It remains to be seen what will come next for Moicano, who hasn’t been rewarded with the kind of rank rise he expected as a result of his recent win.

    Despite remaining at #11 in the pecking order, though, the Brazilian believes he’s done enough to earn a potential title eliminator when he returns to action.

  • Former UFC Light Heavyweight Title Challenger Picks Between Alex Pereira & Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    Former UFC Light Heavyweight Title Challenger Picks Between Alex Pereira & Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

    The main event of UFC 307 sees the return of one of the biggest stars in the sport today, light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira.

    “Poatan” has put on some incredible striking displays since moving up to 205-pounds and that’s sure to be the case once again in Salt Lake City this weekend.

    His challenger, Khalil Rountree, is also used to stopping his opponents with strikes when he steps inside the Octagon.

    We’re sure to get a high-level game of violent chess when these two ruthless fight finishers collide this Saturday night at the Delta Center.

    Volkan Oezdemir Backs Alex Pereira To Retain The Title This Weekend At UFC 307

    In a recent interview with Inside Fighting, former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir gave his quick thoughts on the main event match-up.

    Oezdemir fought for the title back in 2018, coming up short against Daniel Cormier after securing three big wins in the division to get a championship opportunity.

    “No Time” is currently ranked at #6 following back-to-back wins and could be back in the title picture if he’s able to stop the winning streak of Carlos Ulberg next month.

    He believes that the belt will stay with “Poatan” this weekend because he’s the more efficient and polished striker of the two.

    “I think Pereira for me is gonna take it. Rountree is dangerous but I think is a little bit too wild, you know, hooks and stuff. Pereira is more complete but it’s tough, it’s not going to go to the ground for sure. It’s going to be a war.”

    Oezdemir was also asked about Rountree’s game plan of standing and striking with Pereira, which he also believes makes the fight harder for the challenger.

    “Of course you want to go in the best department and I think the ground is the easiest way to take Alex Pereira.”

    Read also: Chael Sonnen Explains Why Upset Could Be ‘Brewing’ In Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree At UFC 307

  • Raquel Pennington: UFC Staff Told Me They ‘Love’ To See Julianna Peña Get Beat Up

    Raquel Pennington: UFC Staff Told Me They ‘Love’ To See Julianna Peña Get Beat Up

    UFC bantamweight champion Raquel Pennington is excited to finally settle a long-standing score in her first title defence at UFC 307.

    Pennington and Julianna Peña first met back on The Ultimate Fighter many years ago where they were roommates during their time on the series.

    After growing to dislike one another, their paths somehow never crossed until this weekend in Salt Lake City.

    Though the champion has her own issues with Peña, it would appear that she isn’t the only one.

    Raquel Pennington Says Some People At The UFC Are Rooting Against Julianna Peña

    In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Pennington explained where some of her dislike of Peña comes from.

    The champ believes that her opponent hasn’t always earned the opportunities that she has been given and casts doubts on her credentials.

    As noted in the interview, the title challenger doesn’t have a win over anyone on the current roster because she’s been relatively inactive in recent years, aside from her fights with Amanda Nunes.

    When Pennington spoke about how the UFC are always looking to put together the biggest fights, she mentioned that some people within the promotion are rooting against her opponent this weekend.

    “I don’t understand how this girl can stay injured and then she comes back and all of a sudden she’s getting a big fight and then she’s injured and then she comes back and she’s getting something else and it’s like who’s managing you? Like what are you doing here? Whatever you’re doing, great, it’s working for you, congratulations, you had like whatever for yourself but it just doesn’t make sense to me and so I’m like alright. At the end of the day, UFC is going to do what UFC does and you know, I won’t say a name but some people in UFC have said like, ‘Hey, everybody loves watching Julianna get her a** beat for five rounds’, so why not?”

    Read also: Julianna Peña Gives Defiant Reaction To Underdog Status At UFC 307

  • Renato Moicano Explains Why Five Fighters Have No Business Being Higher Ranked Than Him After UFC Paris Win

    Renato Moicano Explains Why Five Fighters Have No Business Being Higher Ranked Than Him After UFC Paris Win

    Despite his dominant performance against Benoît Saint Denis in the main event this past weekend, Renato Moicano has been left unsatisfied.

    The lightweight contender earned his fourth consecutive win but did not move up in the rankings at 155-pounds.

    He came into the fight as the #11-ranked contender, facing Saint Denis who was one spot below him following his loss to Dustin Poirier early this year.

    “Money” Moicano is still sat on the fringes of the top 10 even after producing his best performance to date, and the Brazilian isn’t happy about that.

    Renato Moicano Explains Why He Believes He Should Be The #6-Ranked Lightweight Right Now

    Posting on X, Moicano voiced his frustration as to why he hasn’t moved up several places in the rankings.

    He made the case that regardless of him beating a fighter that was ranked below him, he should be just outside the top 5 based on his activity.

    “If UFC Rankings Aren’t Total Bullshit, I Should Be Ranked #6 in the Lightweight Division Tomorrow. Why? In the last 8 months, I’ve fought 3 times and I’m on a 6-fight win streak in the lightweight division, with 5 stoppages. Yet, ranked above me are:”

    Moicano proceeded to name five fighters that he believes he should be above in the rankings, due to their lack of activity and recent form.

    Going case-by-case, he gave reasoning for each person that by his logic, would see him jump all the way up to the #6 spot.

    “#10 Max Holloway: A legend, but he’s a 145 and will be facing Topuria for the featherweight belt at UFC 308. Even if he loses, his spot in the lightweight rankings makes no sense. He just beat Gaethje, so if anything, he should be ranked #3. I’d gladly take #7 if that was case.”

    “#9 Rafael Fiziev: Coming off 2 losses to Mateusz Gamrot and Justin Gaethje. His last fight was in September 2023. #8 Mateusz Gamrot: Coming off a loss to Dan Hooker in August 2024.

    “#7 Beneil Dariush: Coming off 2 losses to Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan. His last fight was in December 2023.”

    “#6 Michael Chandler: If anyone doesn’t deserve this spot, it’s Michael Chandler. He’s 2-3 in the UFC, coming off a loss to Dustin Poirier in November 2022. Since then, he’s been sitting out, waiting for Conor McGregor’s return, and only now decided to fight Charles Oliveira.”

    “There’s no way I’m not #6 in the lightweight division right now.”

    Read also: UFC Veteran Picks Justin Gaethje Over Dustin Poirier & Paddy Pimblett As Renato Moicano’s ‘Glaringly Obvious’ Next Opponent

  • Julianna Peña Gives Defiant Reaction To Underdog Status At UFC 307

    Given her history of upsetting the odds, former UFC Women’s Bantamweight Champion Julianna Peña is welcoming the underdog status attached to her this week.

    For the third straight fight in her career, gold will be on the line when Peña makes the walk at Saturday’s UFC 307 pay-per-view, set for the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

    “The Venezuelan Vixen” is set to co-headline the event in competition for Raquel Pennington’s 135-pound title. Peña previously won the belt and subsequently lost it in a two-fight series with Amanda Nunes.

    Having not competed since her rematch with the “Lioness” in June 2022, the former champ is being counted out by some. That’s reflected in the odds, with her line currently at +136 on DraftKings.

    But Peña has absolutely no qualms about entering her title challenge as the underdog…

    Peña Doesn’t Feel Like The Underdog At UFC 307

    During a recent interview with Kevin Iole, Peña looked ahead to her first outing in over two years and chance to regain the title at 135 pounds.

    While Pennington is favored to retain possession of the championship by the oddsmakers, “The Venezuelan Vixen” is more than ready to prove her doubters wrong — again.

    “It doesn’t (surprise me). I think I was an 11-1 underdog at one point when I was fighting Amanda,” Peña said. “If you go back to the majority of my fights, I am always the underdog. In fact, right off the top of my head, I can’t even think of a time when I was the favorite.

    “It’s just kind of like, I am that underdog role. I always have been,” Peña continued. “At the end of the day, it’s what I believe in my heart. I don’t feel like I’m the underdog. I’m very confident in what I am able to do. So you can call me an underdog, you can call me a favorite, you can call me whatever you want. Just remember that I am Julianna Peña, and I’m going to go in there and get my hand raised at any and all cost.”

    While it wouldn’t mark the kind of shock win she achieved back in December 2021, Peña will be hoping to upset the odds once again en route to the women’s bantamweight throne this weekend.