MMA News

Category: UFC

Latest UFC news articles, interviews and more covering the world’s top Mixed Martial Arts promotion.

  • Javier Mendez: Usman Nurmagomedov Will Win the UFC Title

    Javier Mendez: Usman Nurmagomedov Will Win the UFC Title

    If one were to believe Javier Mendez, Usman Nurmagomedov will have the same success with a quest for gold in the UFC as he did in PFL.

    Nurmagomedov, the current PFL lightweight champion, will be a free agent at the end of the year. While there is no guarantee yet on what his future will be, let alone what his next fight is, many speculate he will jump to the UFC.

    This is a move that Mendez sees happening. The American Kickboxing Academy leader, who trains Nurmagomedov, as well as the longtime trainer of his cousin — the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov — guarantees that if Usman Nurmagomedov goes to the UFC, he will become a champion.

    “When he gets in there, I believe he’s going to win the title,” Mendez told Submission Radio. “He’s that good. People just — they’re going to doubt because he’s not in the UFC. Whatever; this kid’s that good.”

    Mendez quickly followed and clarified that this would be a prediction if he gets to the UFC, saying there is a chance Usman Nurmagomedov never becomes part of the UFC roster during his career.

    Javier Mendez Confident Usman Nurmagomedov Will Succeed With a Move to UFC

    Lightweight has been a prominent division within the UFC over the last decade. To this day, it is filled with a high level of talented athletes, especially those in the top-10 of the title picture.

    A move to the UFC would bring about ideas of new and potentially entertaining matchups for Nurmagomedov that can include the likes of current undisputed champion Ilia Topuria, interim champion Justin Gaethje, Paddy Pimblett, Arman Tsarukyan, Max Holloway, and Charles Oliveira.

    Of course, concern will be had over how Nurmagomedov would fare in the UFC. While some fighters who have jumped from one promotion to the UFC, including Gaethje and Kayla Harrison, have fared well for themselves, others like the recently released Patchy Mix have not.

    Mendez feels Nurmagomedov’s work with his cousin, as well as fighters like former UFC lightweight champion and current UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, gives him an edge in being able to hang with this crop of talent.

    “That’s why I make some bold statements, because I get to see that,” Mendez said. “If I didn’t get to see that, I don’t think I would make those bold statements. I get to see him, so I can see what he can do.

    “…I get to watch him with the best that’s ever done it.”

    Nurmagomedov fought in the main event of PFL Dubai earlier this month, retaining the PFL lightweight championship with a finish of Alfie Davis.

    The question as of now becomes if the PFL will give him another title defense fight to finish out his contract before the end of 2026 — or leave him on the shelf to end his contract at the latest date possible while trying to work out a new deal with him.

  • Justin Jaynes Suspended 18 Months For Cocaine; Faces Nevada Ban

    Justin Jaynes Suspended 18 Months For Cocaine; Faces Nevada Ban

    The Nevada State Athletic Commission (NSAC) has suspended Justin Jaynes retroactively for 18 months after a failed drug test following his most recent MMA fight.

    Per Damon Martin of MMA Fighting, Jaynes will be eligible to compete again after April 24, 2027 — a suspension that goes back to his fight with Marlon Gonzales at Tuff-N-Uff 149 on October 25.

    Jaynes tested positive for benzoylecgonine, a cocaine metabolite.

    During the NSAC meeting to approve the measure, chairman Dallas Haun implied that another drug-related sanction against Jaynes could result in “Guitar Hero” being outright banned for life by the commission.

    “I have a problem, the third drug offense,” Haun said. “The proposed adjudication agreement I think is fine, but I think we need to add that if Mr. Jaynes comes back for any drug-related [offense] then he will be barred from the state of Nevada permanently, would be my input.”

    In addition to the suspension, Jaynes was fined $200 and had to pay $250.60 in prosecution fees.

    The status of Jaynes’ victory over Marlon Gonzales in October is unclear. Martin reports the commission upheld the victory; however, Tapology lists the fight as a no-contest.

    Jaynes, who is 17-11 in MMA, fought for the UFC in 2020 and 2021. Jaynes earned a performance bonus in his debut with a 41-second finish of Frank Camacho, but he then lost to Gavin Tucker, Gabriel Benitez, Devonte Smith, and Charles Rosa before being cut by the promotion.

    Jaynes went 1-3 after being released by the UFC and lost to Lloyd Mix in a bare-knuckle boxing bout last year.

  • Ronda Rousey Predicts Netflix Fight Will Out-Draw UFC on Paramount+

    Ronda Rousey Predicts Netflix Fight Will Out-Draw UFC on Paramount+

    Ronda Rousey is confident her upcoming return to MMA will make a major splash — and she’s not shy about saying so at the UFC’s expense.

    On Wednesday, Rousey responded to coverage of her announced fight against Gina Carano, set for May 16 on Netflix, by taking a direct shot at her former employers. “This rivalry has so many layers – @netflix isnt playing around – bet you we can beat @paramountplus @ufc numbers,” she wrote on X.

    It’s the second public statement from Rousey since the fight was announced. She previously praised Most Valuable Promotions as the “fighter-first” promotion.

    The comparison isn’t exactly apples-to-apples, however. Netflix is available in significantly more homes than UFC’s streaming partner, with more than 325 million paid subscribers worldwide at the end of 2025. Paramount+ had approximately 79.1 million subscribers as of Q3 2025 — less than a quarter of Netflix’s footprint.

    Interestingly, while Rousey’s marketing push involves taking shots at the UFC, she admitted on ESPN SportsCenter on Tuesday (Feb. 17) that she actually approached Dana White first about the Carano fight. “It didn’t exactly work out,” she said, which is what led her to partnering with MVP. MMA News previously reported on the UFC passing on the fight.

    Rousey vs. Carano on May 16 marks the return of one of MMA’s most anticipated potential matchups, a rivalry that dates back to both women’s time as the faces of women’s MMA in the sport’s early mainstream growth period.

  • Gina Carano’s Coach: “She Has the Capabilities to Shock the World”

    Gina Carano’s Coach: “She Has the Capabilities to Shock the World”

    Gina Carano’s head coach is not interested in just showing up on May 16. John Wood, head coach at Syndicate MMA, spoke to MMA Fighting this morning and made clear that Carano’s return against Ronda Rousey on Netflix is being treated as a genuine competitive fight – not a cash grab.

    “She’s fired up and we’re firing on all cylinders already,” Wood said. “She’s coming out there to win that fight. There is no intention of just showing up. Showing up for me isn’t even acceptable. It’s we’re going out there to win the fight.”

    A Serious Camp, Not a Cash Grab

    Wood said he would have been upfront with Carano if she had walked into Syndicate looking like she wasn’t ready. That’s not what he found. Carano is training twice a day, taking her diet seriously, and has had to be reined in during sparring sessions.

    “Had she come in and just been a pile of hot garbage, I’d have been like, ‘Hey, do you need the money? Cause we’ll do it for this, but…’ That’s not been the case, man. She looks great. She’s training every day, twice a day. She’s killing it.”

    Wood also pushed back against the idea that this fight is a novelty act.

    “This isn’t just a cash grab of like, hey, we’re going to do this. This is a woman.. two women, who actually want to fight and want to come back and get into it. And I can tell you that the fire is there.”

    The Fighter Who Never Actually Retired

    Carano’s last professional fight was in 2009. But according to Wood (and reportedly per Carano herself) she never formally retired. She just stopped fighting. Wood says the competitive instinct was never fully extinguished.

    “Her goal is.. she misses the fight game. She still loves to fight. She’s a fighter at heart. I think she probably retired a little early and so I think there’s still that need to get out there and prove that she can still do it – and I know she can.”

    Wood has known Carano for over 20 years, going back to her K1 days before her first MMA fight. He said her willingness to absorb new techniques has been one of the highlights of camp so far.

    “She’s kind of like a sponge now, absorbing things. There’s not a lot of bad habits to break. So we’re learning new habits and she’s picking things up very, very fast.”

    “The Best Gina Carano You’ve Ever Seen”

    Wood was direct about where he stands on the outcome. Carano enters the fight as a significant underdog, a position Wood says he actually prefers.

    “I truly believe she has the capabilities to go out there and shock the world. And that’s what our plan is. Come May 16th, you’re going to see something that I don’t think has ever been seen from her before. You’re going to see the best Gina Carano that’s ever stepped into a ring or cage.”

    Rousey vs. Carano is set for May 16, 2026 on Netflix, promoted by Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions. The fight was previously discussed for the UFC as far back as 2015 before those negotiations collapsed.

  • “I Need This Belt” – Anthony Hernandez’s Game Plan for UFC Houston

    “I Need This Belt” – Anthony Hernandez’s Game Plan for UFC Houston

    Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez arrived at UFC Houston media day with one message: he’s not here to survive a main event, he’s here to take over the UFC middleweight division.

    In a sit-down with Full Send MMA’s Shawny Mack, Hernandez laid out his strategy against former champion Sean Strickland and made clear the stakes couldn’t feel higher to him heading into Saturday night.

    “I don’t know what I’m going to get, but at the end of the day I’m going to cut off the cage and I’m going to stay in his face and make him hate his life and regret calling me out,” Hernandez said. “I need that spot. I need this belt. This is the perfect fight for me.”

    Who Goes Backwards First?

    Much of the pre-fight chatter around this matchup has centered on which version of Strickland shows up. Will it be the aggressive pressure fighter or the more passive, disengaged version that appeared in some recent bouts? Hernandez isn’t building a game plan around either option. He’s focused on imposing his own.

    “He says he always brings it and he comes forward. We’ll see who goes backwards first.”

    His strategy is built on cage-cutting — suffocating Strickland’s ability to create distance and making the fight ugly and physical from the opening bell. The main event is five rounds, which plays directly into Hernandez’s relentless pace.

    More Than a Grappler

    Hernandez has built his eight-fight win streak largely on the strength of his wrestling and grinding pressure, but he pushed back firmly on being labeled a one-dimensional fighter. Against Strickland, he says, fans are going to see the full package.

    “Everybody knows me as this grappling guy, but I’ve said it myself — I like to strike. I’m really good at grappling, but that’s just what I’ve done to win,” he said. “And now I finally get a guy that I can strike with. I’m planning on giving everyone a show. I’m going to go out there and show that I know how to do martial arts at the highest level of MMA. I’m going to mix it up and I’m going to keep it nasty. I’m going to make his life hell.”

    Strickland, meanwhile, has said publicly he believes he’s the better wrestler and predicts the fight becomes a kickboxing match. Hernandez isn’t buying it — but he’s also not spending energy on the back-and-forth. His focus is the performance.

    “Tune in. It’s two violent motherf***ers getting to face each other. I hope you guys enjoy the show.”

    UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez goes down Saturday, February 21 from Toyota Center in Houston, Texas, streaming live on Paramount+. The winner is widely expected to be next in line for Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC Middleweight Championship.

  • Islam Makhachev Rules Out Ilia Topuria Fight at UFC White House

    Islam Makhachev Rules Out Ilia Topuria Fight at UFC White House

    Islam Makhachev has clarified that a superfight with Ilia Topuria will not be happening at the UFC’s planned White House event in June, citing that the featherweight champion already has another opponent lined up.

    Speaking to Russian outlet MatchTV, the welterweight champion stated there “definitely won’t be a fight with Topuria at the White House” because “he already has an opponent.”

    The comments walk back Makhachev’s own public enthusiasm for the matchup just days prior, when he said he “liked” the idea and was “ready” if the UFC wanted to make it happen.

    The UFC is targeting a historic card at the White House on June 14, 2026, a date that coincides with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday. UFC CEO Dana White has called it potentially the promotion’s most-watched event ever.

    Makhachev had previously expressed interest in competing on the card, noting the timing aligns well with his post-Ramadan training schedule. However, reports have consistently pointed to Topuria being booked against another opponent at lightweight — with Justin Gaethje’s interim title situation frequently mentioned in connection with the show.

    Makhachev has also questioned the legacy value of a Topuria fight if it required him to drop back down to lightweight again, suggesting his focus is on defending against top welterweight contenders going forward.

    The Makhachev-Topuria superfight remains a compelling long-term possibility, but it won’t be materializing on the White House card.

    Just days ago …

  • The Dana White Text That Killed Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano in UFC

    The Dana White Text That Killed Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano in UFC

    With Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano finally signed for May 16, it’s worth revisiting the offensive text message from Dana White that killed this superfight a decade ago — and ended his relationship with Carano entirely.

    In a 2019 interview with Ariel Helwani, Carano revealed the full story of how close she came to fighting Rousey in the UFC, and how spectacularly it fell apart over broken trust and a text message that was never meant for her to see.

    The Setup: A Million Dollars and One Request

    Around 2015, at the height of Ronda Rousey’s dominance, UFC president Dana White and then-owner Lorenzo Fertitta took Carano to a “nice dinner” and offered her $1 million to fight Rousey. Carano left the meeting “stoked” about the opportunity.

    She had one specific request: six months to step away from her Hollywood career, find a legitimate gym, build a proper team, and get back into fighting shape. Most importantly, she asked White to keep the negotiations quiet during that preparation period.

    White agreed.

    The very next day, he began publicly discussing signing Carano.

    “I asked him to just keep it quiet for six months while I built a team and got ready,” Carano told Helwani. “The next day, he’s talking about it publicly. That broke the trust.”

    The Text Message

    As public pressure mounted and Carano struggled to prepare under the media spotlight she’d specifically asked to avoid, White sent her a text message clearly intended for someone else:

    “This b**** isn’t f**king us around.”

    Carano’s response was ice-cold: “I think you sent that to the wrong person.”

    White’s reply was even colder: “I don’t think I did.”

    That exchange marked their last communication. The million-dollar superfight was dead.

    Why It Hurt

    The text wasn’t just offensive. It represented everything Carano had come to resent about her dealings with White and the UFC. Years earlier, when she was fighting for Strikeforce and preparing to face Cris Cyborg, White and Fertitta had approached her with an offer to join the WEC instead, specifically encouraging her not to take the Cyborg fight. Carano refused, stating she’d given her word to Strikeforce and her fans.

    When the Rousey opportunity came around, the pattern repeated: an agreement made in private, immediately broken in public, followed by pressure tactics when she tried to hold White to his word.

    “I have a problem with the abuse of authority. People holding money over my head has never been a turn-on for me. That’s ultimately what led to me cutting off communication.”

    Gina Carano to Ariel Helwani

    The Apology That Didn’t Matter

    White did eventually apologize to Carano in person at a Sports Hall of Fame event where both her father and Mike Tyson were being honored. But by then, the damage was irreversible.

    The text message had confirmed what Carano already suspected about how White viewed her — not as a partner in negotiations, but as someone to be controlled and pressured into compliance.

    A Decade Later

    What the UFC couldn’t make happen in 2015, Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions has now delivered. Rousey vs. Carano is signed for May 16, 2026 — a fight that represents the resolution of one of women’s MMA’s most infamous “what if” stories.

    The fight is happening a decade late and under a completely different banner than anyone expected. Despite Rousey being heavily favored, at least Dana White won’t be anywhere near the negotiations.

  • Conor McGregor UFC Return: Fight Accepted, Tweet Deleted

    Conor McGregor UFC Return: Fight Accepted, Tweet Deleted

    Conor McGregor briefly sent the MMA world into a frenzy on Wednesday by posting — and then quickly deleting — a tweet confirming he had accepted a UFC fight offer. The Irish superstar posted on X:

    “I have been offered an opponent and a date and I accept. Waiting on my contract.”

    He deleted the post within minutes, but not before screenshots were captured and spread widely online. Notably, he did not reveal who his opponent would be or when the bout was scheduled to take place.

    Conor McGregor’s Road Back to the Octagon

    The tweet comes just days after UFC CEO Dana White confirmed he had been building a fight card for a historic event on the lawn of the White House this summer. White later walked back his comments slightly, clarifying: “I didn’t say it was done; I said the card was built.” McGregor has been linked to the event and has publicly suggested the White House card could be his comeback stage.

    Several names have surfaced as possible opponents for McGregor’s return. Michael Chandler remains the most frequently mentioned, as the two were previously booked for June 2024 before McGregor withdrew with a broken toe. Jorge Masvidal, Colby Covington, and Nate Diaz have also been floated as potential matchups. Diaz recently told TMZ he wants the McGregor trilogy, and McGregor responded on Instagram hinting at the same.

    McGregor hasn’t competed since July 2021, when he broke his leg in the first round of his trilogy fight with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264. He becomes eligible to compete again on March 20, after completing an anti-doping suspension stemming from three whereabouts failures.

  • Gable Steveson Calls Out Pereira, Aspinall, Gane

    Gable Steveson Calls Out Pereira, Aspinall, Gane

    Gable Steveson isn’t waiting for a UFC contract to start calling out the biggest names in the heavyweight division. In an interview with Submission Radio ahead of his third professional MMA fight on February 19 at MFL 3 in Mexico, the Olympic gold medalist made it clear he believes he already belongs with the division’s elite.

    “Those three big names — Pereira, Aspinall, Gane — I can compete with most definitely. Especially right now,” Steveson told host Denis Shkuratov. “But if you keep giving me time, the gap will keep coming in — with the youthfulness that I have, with those guys being a little older. Tom is a little older, but Pereira — really older. Gane — really older. As time goes on, you don’t get any faster.”

    It’s a bold claim from a fighter who is just 2-0 as a professional, but Steveson has never lacked confidence. The two-time NCAA Division I National Champion and 2020 Olympic gold medalist has been on an accelerated path toward the UFC since making his MMA debut at LFA 217 in September, where he finished Braden Peterson in 98 seconds.

    Steveson Embraces the “Savior” Label

    The heavyweight division has been in a state of uncertainty, with Jon Jones flirting with retirement and the top contenders jockeying for position. Many fans and media members have started attaching the “savior” label to Steveson, and while he deflects the title, he doesn’t shy away from the expectations that come with it.

    “It’s a one of a kind thing when a lot of people put your name as the savior. But I’m young. I’m hungry. I’m ready to work, and I work hard every single day to make that possible,” Steveson said. “The next version of Gable you’ll see is even better than the one you saw last time.”

    When asked about the pressure of being called a future UFC champion before even fighting in the promotion, Steveson pointed to his track record of performing under the brightest spotlights.

    “That pressure has been put on Steveson and I feel like I’ve directed all the things you could possibly say about: can he do it or can he not? I feel like I’ve proved everyone wrong every single time,” he said. “Pressure makes diamonds, and the diamond in the rough is found now. It’s just me.”

    White House Card and Getting Paid

    Steveson also made his pitch for the UFC’s rumored White House card, an event he’s been vocal about wanting to be part of for months.

    “It would be an honor to be on the White House card. I would love to be the face of it — Olympic champion from USA coming to support the American company, the UFC, and kind of grow myself in that area,” Steveson said. “But if it happens, it happens. If it doesn’t, the world keeps going on. Whether I’m on the White House card or the next card or the one before that, people will watch.”

    As for navigating the attention that comes with his rapid rise, Steveson offered a motto that captures his approach: “If they’re going to love you one day, they’re going to hate you the next day — just make sure you get paid both times.”

    Steveson faces Hugo Lezama, a 14-fight veteran, on Thursday at MFL 3 in Mexico. A dominant performance could be the final step before the UFC call he’s been working toward.

  • Michael Chiesa Announces UFC Seattle Will Be Final Fight

    Michael Chiesa Announces UFC Seattle Will Be Final Fight

    Michael Chiesa has announced that his upcoming fight against Carlston Harris at UFC Seattle on March 28, 2026, will be the final bout of his MMA career, ending a 14-year run in the UFC.

    Chiesa revealed his retirement plans during an appearance on The Anik & Florian Podcast, confirming that the matchup at the Climate Pledge Arena will be his last time competing inside the Octagon.

    The welterweight bout serves as a homecoming for “Maverick”, who hails from Spokane Valley, Washington, roughly four hours from Seattle. The Washington native will have the opportunity to compete in front of friends, family, and home-state supporters for his final walk to the cage.

    14-Year UFC Career

    Chiesa earned his UFC contract by winning The Ultimate Fighter: Live tournament in 2012, defeating Al Iaquinta in the finale. He compiled a 19-7 professional record with the majority of those bouts coming inside the Octagon.

    Known for his grappling-heavy style and back-taking ability, “Maverick” earned double-digit submission victories throughout his career. The 38-year-old picked up notable wins over Rafael dos Anjos, Carlos Condit, and Diego Sanchez while competing at lightweight and welterweight.

    After moving to 170 pounds, Chiesa enjoyed a strong surge with back-to-back wins over Condit and Sanchez. Most recently, he snapped a lengthy skid by defeating Court McGee at UFC Atlanta in June 2025.

    What’s Next For Michael Chiesa?

    Chiesa has already built a decent presence as an analyst and commentator on various MMA broadcasts, positioning him for a seamless transition once he retires. Given his experience and comfort on the microphone, the welterweight veteran expected to remain a visible figure in the UFC and wider MMA landscape.

    Harris enters the bout looking to halt his own struggles after dropping back-to-back fights, making this a pivotal matchup for both welterweights at UFC Seattle.

  • Nate Diaz Backs Max Holloway Over Charles Oliveira at UFC 326 For BMF Title

    Nate Diaz believes Max Holloway (27-8) will successfully defend his BMF title against Charles Oliveira (36-11) at UFC 326, setting up a potential return to the promotion in June.

    Holloway is set to put his BMF title on the line against Oliveira on March 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas in the main event of UFC 326, where he aims to be the first fighter to successfully defend the ceremonial UFC belt.

    Nate Diaz Claims He’ll “Slap” Max Holloway on UFC White House Card

    Nate Diaz last fought in the UFC in 2022, choking out Tony Ferguson at UFC 279. Since then, he has fought Jake Paul and rematched with Jorge Masvidal in the boxing ring.

    Despite his success outside the UFC, Diaz has expressed interest in returning at the UFC White House event this June. He also claimed he started a whole division with his initial BMF title fight in 2019.

    Regarding the Holloway vs. Oliveira rematch, Diaz is predicting a Holloway victory.

    “I like Max (in that fight),” Diaz told ClockedNload. “Yeah [I like Max in that fight]. I’ll slap the sh*t out of him, though. That was rude what I just said, but I’ll f*ck him up. Yeah, the White House [event] would be perfect.”

    Dana White Left The Door Open For Nate Diaz’s UFC Return

    Throughout his UFC career, Nate Diaz and Dana White didn’t always see eye to eye, with the UFC CEO often joking about the difficulty of dealing with the Diaz brothers.

    However, White indicated that the door is open for Diaz to return to the promotion.

    “This will always be Nate’s house. Nate grew up here… He fought some of the biggest fights ever here. We love the kid. I don’t know about fighting in the future, but this will always be his house. We’ll see,” White said at the DWCS 57 post-fight press conference.

  • Sean O’Malley Still Awaiting Call for UFC White House Card

    Sean O’Malley Still Awaiting Call for UFC White House Card

    Sean O’Malley revealed he hasn’t received any communication from the UFC regarding the historic White House event scheduled for June 14, 2026. The former bantamweight champion shared his uncertainty on social media, stating he hasn’t gotten a call about the highly anticipated card.

    “I haven’t got a call, I haven’t heard nothing,” O’Malley said. “Suga Show might not be on the White House.”

    The revelation comes despite O’Malley’s recent unanimous decision victory over Song Yadong at UFC 324 in January, where he bounced back from consecutive losses to Merab Dvalishvili. Following that win, O’Malley called for a rematch against current bantamweight champion Petr Yan, specifically targeting the White House event.

    White House Card Still Shrouded in Mystery

    O’Malley’s comments highlight the broader confusion surrounding the June 14 card, which remains without a single officially announced fight. UFC President Dana White confirmed in early February that matchmaking meetings were underway, stating fights would be “dialed in by this weekend.” However, no official announcements have followed.

    The UFC White House card is expected to feature approximately 6-7 fights on the South Lawn, with 3,000-4,000 live spectators and an additional 85,000 fans watching from The Ellipse on large screens. The event will stream on Paramount+ as part of the UFC’s $7.7 billion broadcast deal.

    O’Malley’s Championship Path

    Currently ranked #3 in the bantamweight division, O’Malley lost his championship to Dvalishvili twice in 2025 — first by unanimous decision at UFC 306, then by submission at UFC 316. His victory over Yadong at UFC 324 marked his return to the win column and potentially positioned him for another title opportunity.

    A showdown with Yan at the White House would represent a significant redemption opportunity for O’Malley, who previously defeated “No Mercy” at UFC 280 in October 2022. That victory ultimately led to his championship reign, making a White House rematch particularly meaningful for the polarizing star.

    With only four months until the historic event and zero confirmed matchups, the UFC’s silence continues to fuel speculation about which fighters will make the exclusive card. Whether O’Malley receives that call remains to be seen.

  • MMA Legend Questions Charles Oliveira’s Hunger Before Max Holloway UFC 326 Fight

    MMA Legend Questions Charles Oliveira’s Hunger Before Max Holloway UFC 326 Fight

    UFC legend Frankie Edgar has expressed concerns about Charles Oliveira’s mindset ahead of his rematch against Max Holloway at UFC 326.

    Oliveira (36-11-0, 1 NC), the No. 3-ranked UFC lightweight, is set to challenge BMF titleholder Holloway in the main event of UFC 326 in Las Vegas on March 7. “Do Bronx” aims to regain the lightweight title, which he lost after missing weight before his victory over Justin Gaethje in 2022.

    Frankie Edgar Doubts Charles Oliveira’s Hunger

    During a recent appearance on The Bohnfire podcast with MMA Junkie’s Mike Bohn, Frankie Edgar stated that while he sees Max Holloway on a resurgence, he isn’t sure if Charles Oliveira still has the same drive he once had.

    “I think Holloway is on a tear, kind of like a resurgence a little bit,” Edgar said. “[Lightweight] is definitely his weight class now. I think going down to 145 [pounds] was too taxing on him.”

    “Oliveira, I don’t know, sometimes you just wonder,” he continued. “He had such an up-and-down type of career until he became the champion, and you just wonder if he’s still hungry. That’s what I wonder. I feel like Holloway is still chasing the bone.”

    Oliveira most recently competed at UFC Rio in October, where he secured a dominant second-round submission victory over Mateusz Gamrot. Before that, “Do Bronx” suffered a brutal knockout loss to Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 in his third attempt to capture the lightweight title.

  • UFC Fight Night Houston Preview: Strickland vs. Hernandez Card

    UFC Fight Night Houston Preview: Strickland vs. Hernandez Card

    UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez takes place this Saturday, February 21, 2026 from the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas. The card streams live on Paramount+ and features a middleweight main event with massive title implications, as former champion Sean Strickland takes on the surging Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez in a five-round headliner.

    A Pivotal Night for UFC’s Middleweight Division

    The middleweight division has undergone a rapid changing of the guard over the past two years. Khamzat Chimaev captured the title with a dominant decision over Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 in August 2025, and the undefeated champion has indicated he plans to defend only once more at 185 pounds before pursuing a second belt at light heavyweight. That timeline makes Saturday’s main event feel like a true title eliminator, with the winner likely next in line for Chimaev.

    This card also marks the UFC’s tenth visit to Houston and its first since UFC 271 in February 2022, when Israel Adesanya defended his middleweight title against Robert Whittaker in front of nearly 18,000 fans.

    How to Watch

    • Date/Time: Saturday, February 21, 2026 — Prelims at 5:00 PM ET / 2:00 PM PT, Main Card at 8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
    • Venue: Toyota Center, Houston, Texas
    • Streaming: Paramount+ (entire card)

    Full Fight Card

    MatchWeight Class
    Main Card (8:00 PM ET – Paramount+)
    Sean Strickland vs. Anthony HernandezMiddleweight (Main Event – 5 rounds)
    Geoff Neal vs. Uroš MedićWelterweight
    Dan Ige vs. Melquizael CostaFeatherweight
    Serghei Spivac vs. Ante DelijaHeavyweight
    Jacobe Smith vs. Seokhyeon KoWelterweight
    Zach Reese vs. Michel PereiraMiddleweight
    Preliminary Card (5:00 PM ET – Paramount+)
    Chidi Njokuani vs. Carlos LealWelterweight
    Ode Osbourne vs. Alibi IdirisFlyweight
    Alden Coria vs. Luis GuruleFlyweight
    Nora Cornolle vs. Joselyne EdwardsWomen’s Bantamweight
    Ramiz Brahimaj vs. Punahele SorianoWelterweight
    Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani vs. Phil RoweWelterweight
    Yadier del Valle vs. Jordan LeavittFeatherweight
    Carli Judice vs. Juliana MillerWomen’s Flyweight

    Fight Previews

    Middleweight Main Event: Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez

    This is the fight the middleweight division has been building toward. Sean Strickland (29-7) hasn’t competed since losing to Dricus du Plessis in their title rematch at UFC 312 in February 2025. A suspension stemming from a physical altercation at a Tuff-N-Uff event last summer further delayed his return, but the former middleweight champion completed anger management and has been cleared to compete. At 34, the outspoken Californian insists he’s the only fighter at 185 pounds capable of dethroning Chimaev.

    Standing across from him will be one of the most dangerous contenders in the division. Anthony “Fluffy” Hernandez (15-2) owns an eight-fight win streak and holds the distinction of having the longest active winning streak in UFC middleweight history without receiving a title shot. Over that run, Hernandez has brutalized Michel Pereira, broken Chris Weidman’s UFC middleweight takedown record against Brendan Allen, and submitted Roman Dolidze for a Performance of the Night bonus. An injury forced him to withdraw from a scheduled title eliminator against Reinier de Ridder last October, but Hernandez is healthy and hungry.

    The stylistic matchup is fascinating. Strickland thrives standing behind his jab and forward pressure, while Hernandez’s relentless wrestling and grinding pace have overwhelmed everyone in his path. Former champion Dricus du Plessis predicted the fight will go the distance, noting that Strickland’s ability to get back to his feet after takedowns could neutralize Hernandez’s grappling. Hernandez is the significant betting favorite at nearly 3-to-1, but Strickland’s experience against elite competition — including wins over Israel Adesanya and Paulo Costa — makes him a live underdog. The stakes are enormous: a win likely earns a shot at Chimaev’s title.

    Welterweight Co-Main Event: Geoff Neal vs. Uroš Medić

    Houston native Geoff Neal (16-7) returns to his home city under emotional circumstances. In a candid recent interview, “Handz of Steel” revealed he has been privately battling drug and alcohol addiction for five years, dating back to the COVID-19 pandemic. The No. 12-ranked welterweight says he’s now sober and clear-headed for the first time in years, crediting his wife and a disciplined recovery program for the turnaround.

    Uroš Medić (12-3) is one of the most explosive finishers at 170 pounds. The Serbian striker has delivered back-to-back first-round knockouts and holds the rare distinction of having every single one of his UFC fights end in a stoppage. With eight career knockouts and seven first-round finishes, this matchup screams fireworks.

    Featherweight: Dan Ige vs. Melquizael Costa

    Veteran Dan Ige (19-10) continues to stay active against dangerous opposition. The Hawaiian featherweight has been a mainstay in the UFC’s 145-pound division for years and will look to use his experience edge against Melquizael Costa (25-7), a Brazilian finisher who adds international intrigue to the main card.

    Heavyweight: Serghei Spivac vs. Ante Delija

    Serghei Spivac (17-6) takes on 2022 PFL Heavyweight Tournament winner Ante Delija (26-7) in a battle of big men with grappling pedigrees. This bout was originally scheduled for UFC 325 before being moved to the Houston card. Spivac is the more established UFC heavyweight, while the Croatian Delija looks to make a statement in his ongoing Octagon career.

    Welterweight: Jacobe Smith vs. Seokhyeon Ko

    Keep an eye on Jacobe Smith (11-0). The undefeated welterweight prospect is a two-time NJCAA wrestling champion and Oklahoma State All-American who has finished every opponent since entering the UFC, including a first-round knockout of Preston Parsons and a submission of veteran Niko Price. He faces Seokhyeon Ko (7-0), who is also unbeaten. Something has to give in this clash of rising 170-pounders.

    Middleweight: Zach Reese vs. Michel Pereira

    Zach Reese and Michel Pereira round out the main card with a middleweight bout that should deliver action. Pereira is always one of the most entertaining fighters on any card he appears on, while Reese looks to continue climbing the 185-pound ranks.

    Stay tuned to MMANews.com for live results, fight recaps, and post-event analysis from UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez.

  • Nate Diaz Calls Out McGregor, Poirier & Perry For UFC White House

    Nate Diaz Calls Out McGregor, Poirier & Perry For UFC White House

    Nate Diaz has made his intentions clear: he wants back in “real action” and has his sights set on three potential opponents for the historic UFC White House event scheduled for June 14, 2026. In an interview with TMZ Sports, the 40-year-old Stockton native didn’t hold back when discussing his return plans.

    “I’m ready to get back in real action. I want to fight either McGregor, maybe Dustin Poirier if he stops being such a p*ssy, and maybe Mike Perry.”

    The callout comes as UFC President Dana White finalizes the fight card for the unprecedented White House event, which will take place on the South Lawn and coincide with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday and America’s 250th anniversary celebrations.

    Dana White confirmed this week that the six-to-seven fight card is already built and will meet with President Trump this week to finalize production plans.

    Diaz Praises Jake Paul, Confirms White House Interest

    Diaz also commented on Jake Paul’s recent performance against former heavyweight champion Anthony Joshua, praising Paul for taking on the toughest challenge of his career.

    “He’s doing a great job,” Diaz said of Paul, who lost via sixth-round knockout on December 19, 2025, suffering a double broken jaw in the process. Diaz previously defeated Paul by majority decision in their July 2023 boxing match.

    When asked about the UFC White House event, Diaz expressed clear enthusiasm for the opportunity.

    “Yeah, that’d be dope, to. America gang, baby. You already know what’s popping.”

    The fighter emphasized his desire for a legitimate MMA contest rather than another exhibition bout, stating he wants a “real fight” for the “right price.”

    Three Names, One Stage

    The most obvious matchup is the long-awaited trilogy with Conor McGregor. The two legends split their 2016 encounters, with Diaz submitting McGregor at UFC 196 before losing the rematch at UFC 202. McGregor has confirmed his participation in the White House event and hasn’t fought since breaking his leg against Poirier in July 2021.

    Diaz’s callout of Dustin Poirier escalates a feud that dates back years. Poirier retired in July 2025 after losing to Max Holloway at UFC 318, but still has multiple fights remaining on his UFC contract. The former interim lightweight champion has struggled with retirement and recently teased a comeback, specifically mentioning Diaz as a potential opponent for Zuffa Boxing.

    The wild card is “Platinum” Mike Perry, now a free agent after starring in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. Diaz’s emphasis on wanting a “real fight” for the “right price” suggests he’s prioritizing a UFC return over other formats.

  • Holloway Praises “Killer” Oliveira, Diaz Eyes UFC 326 Winner

    Holloway Praises “Killer” Oliveira, Diaz Eyes UFC 326 Winner

    Max Holloway is acknowledging Charles Oliveira’s evolution as a fighter ahead of their BMF title fight at UFC 326. Nate Diaz has also expressed interest in fighting the winner of the bout, which takes place March 7 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

    Holloway and Oliveira, both UFC lightweights, are set to headline UFC 326 for the BMF title. Their first fight in 2015 ended with an Oliveira shoulder injury at 1:39 of the first round. Oliveira has since claimed he was “just a boy” during that initial encounter.

    In episode 4 of his BMF Champ Champ series on YouTube, Holloway addressed Oliveira’s claim, noting they were both early in their careers at ages 23 and 25. Max Holloway said:

    “Oliveira is just a killer, you know? His striking came a long way and if you see most of his finishes, a lot of the times it’s not hail-Mary submissions that he’s finishing people with.

    He’s a real mixed martial artist, I saw an interview where he said the first time we fought he was jiu-jitsu Oliveira, now he’s MMA Oliveira and I respect that, I agree with that, come March 7, though, we get to find out everything. Oliveira is Oliveira.”

    Nate Diaz has declared his interest in returning to the promotion to take on the UFC 326 main event winner, predicting that Holloway will win. If Holloway (fighting out of Gracie Technics) is successful at UFC 326, he could become the first fighter to successfully defend the BMF title.

  • NBA’s Jaylen Brown Eyes UFC, Talks with Dana White

    NBA’s Jaylen Brown Eyes UFC, Talks with Dana White

    Jaylen Brown, the Boston Celtics star, revealed he has spoken with UFC CEO Dana White about potentially fighting in the UFC or boxing after his NBA career. The five-time NBA All-Star and 2024 NBA Finals MVP made the comments at NBA All-Star Media Day on February 15, 2026.

    Brown, 29, confirmed his interest in combat sports after his basketball career and that he has spoken with Dana White about it.

    “To be honest, I’ve toyed with this, and I’ve talked to some people, maybe post part of my career, I would love to take part in something like UFC, or even boxing,” Brown told reporters. “I’ve talked to Dana White about some stuff, but we’ll see as things go on.”

    He is listed at 6-foot-6 and weighs 223 pounds, which would place him in the UFC heavyweight division. Brown also has training in Muay Thai.

    Boston Celtics head coach Joe Mazzulla is a well-known MMA fan who attends UFC events and uses fight footage as teaching tools with the team.

  • Cain Velasquez Released On Parole, Plans Seminar

    Cain Velasquez Released On Parole, Plans Seminar

    Cain Velasquez was released on parole today and is exploring hosting a one-day Holotropic Breathing Seminar in the San Jose area. Velasquez posted on Instagram about his release and plans for the seminar, which will include guided breathing, a mental/emotional reset, a meet-and-greet, a Q&A, and a group photo.

    Velasquez wrote, “After my release on February 15th, I’m exploring the idea of hosting a one-day Holotropic Breathing Seminar in the San Jose area.” He added that breathwork has been a powerful tool for him and he’d like to share it with others. The seminar would be a paid, limited-capacity event.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DUwSMgfkiQs/?utm_source=ig_embed&utm_campaign=loading

    Velasquez’s Legal Issues

    In August 2024, Velasquez pleaded no contest to charges of attempted murder, felony assault with a firearm, and shooting at a motor vehicle. The charges stemmed from a February 2022 incident in Santa Clara County, California. He was sentenced to five years in prison but was eligible for parole after time served, house arrest, and good behavior. Velasquez still faces four years of supervised parole.

  • Colby Covington Wants Paddy Pimblett at UFC White House

    Colby Covington Wants Paddy Pimblett at UFC White House

    Colby Covington is actively negotiating with the UFC to secure a spot on the promotion’s unprecedented White House event scheduled for June 14, 2026. The historic card will take place on the South Lawn of the White House, coinciding with both the United States’ 250th anniversary celebration and President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday.

    For Covington, a vocal Trump supporter, competing at the White House would represent the pinnacle of his fighting career. During his appearance on Hot Cakes & Hot Takes, he said:

    “I’ve been negotiating with the UFC for the White House card. You know, that’s the one that I want,” Covington said. “This would be the biggest fight I’ve ever had. To fight on the south lawn in front of the President would be the greatest honor of my career.”​

    Recent Fighting Activity

    Covington enters these negotiations coming off a difficult loss at UFC Tampa in December 2024, where he was defeated by Joaquin Buckley via third-round TKO due to doctor’s stoppage. The loss marked a setback for the former interim welterweight champion, who holds a 17-5 overall MMA record.​

    During his UFC inactivity, Covington remained active by competing in a Real American Freestyle (RAF) wrestling match against former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold at RAF 5 in January 2026. The crossover wrestling event allowed Covington to showcase his NCAA Division I All-American wrestling credentials.​

    Potential Matchup

    Covington has identified Paddy Pimblett as his ideal opponent for the White House card, envisioning an American versus British rivalry that would resonate with the patriotic nature of the event.

    “I’d really like to fight with Paddy Pimblett. He had shown interest that he might want to come up a weight class to welterweight,” Covington explained.​

    The matchup would require Pimblett, who typically competes at lightweight (155 pounds), to move up to welterweight (170 pounds). Covington believes this makes sense given Pimblett’s significant weight cuts, noting that the Liverpool fighter “weighs 200 [pounds]” between fights.

    McGregor Fight Ruled Out

    While speculation had swirled about various high-profile matchups for the White House event, UFC President Dana White has definitively shut down rumors of Covington facing Conor McGregor. White called such speculation “total BS” and indicated that official matchmaking meetings were underway.​

    Event Details

    The UFC White House card will feature six to seven fights with a capacity of 3,000-4,000 attendees on the South Lawn. The event will be simulcast on CBS and Paramount+. Weigh-ins are expected to take place at the Lincoln Memorial.

  • Dustin Poirier: Gnarly Broken Toe Halts Training Session (Video)

    Dustin Poirier: Gnarly Broken Toe Halts Training Session (Video)

    Dustin Poirier suffered a broken toe during a training session on February 14, 2026, at American Top Team in Florida.

    Poirier showed off the injury on social media. “Broke my damn toe today,” he wrote, accompanied with a video showing off the mangled toe. An audible gasp can be heard from his training partners when he gives them a good look at the damage.

    The former interim UFC lightweight champion is still training regularly, leading to the injury. Poirier, who has a professional record of 30-10 with one no contest, retired after his fight against Max Holloway.

  • Du Plessis Blames Chimaev for ‘Terrible Fight,’ Wants Rematch

    Du Plessis Blames Chimaev for ‘Terrible Fight,’ Wants Rematch

    Former UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis is blaming Khamzat Chimaev for what he calls a “terrible fight” when they met at UFC 319 in August 2025. Du Plessis (record not provided) lost the title to Chimaev (record not provided) by unanimous decision. Now, he’s calling for a rematch.

    Du Plessis is targeting a return to the Octagon at UFC 327 in Miami on April 11, 2026. Speaking with Fight Forecast, Du Plessis stated he would “love to be on that April card.” He added that there is “no opponent yet, there’s no contract yet.” Chimaev has also been considering a move to light heavyweight.

    Du Plessis Aims to Counter Chimaev’s Wrestling

    Du Plessis anticipates Chimaev will rely on his wrestling in a potential rematch. He plans to counter it to force his own fighting style. In an interview with Fight Forecast, Du Plessis explained why he felt the fight with Chimaev was terrible and what he needs to do to win in a rematch:

    “It’s always great if you have a guy that comes and fights because it’s my style and it’s what I love to do entertain, to hear the crowd go crazy. But he knows that and that’s why he went for that style. Once again, I understand that it wasn’t the best fight to watch. In fact, it was a terrible fight to watch, but he did what he had to do to win that title and good for him. My responsibility is to stop him from doing that and that’s what I will do.”

    Du Plessis aims to regain the title before the end of 2026.

  • Gable Steveson: UFC Debut ‘Close,’ Jones Predicts Title in a Year

    Gable Steveson: UFC Debut ‘Close,’ Jones Predicts Title in a Year

    Gable Steveson says his jump to the UFC is approaching. The Olympic gold medalist told ESPN MMA’s Brett Okamoto that the promotion has been in regular contact and that his debut is “getting to that point where it’s close.”

    “We’ve been in actually a lot of contact. I would say after every single fight, it’s a call,” Steveson said. “It’s all good messages. It’s all positive things, good energy. We talk on a great basis. So when the time is coming, it’s just when I want the time to come.”

    Steveson (2-0 MMA) fights Hugo Lezama, a 14-fight veteran, on Thursday, February 19 in Mexico on the Mexico Fight League card. He says a dominant performance there could seal the deal.

    “I think a big knockout next Thursday will make it perfect,” Steveson said. “Just be ready for all aspects of it. But I think that’ll be a big jump for me if I can go out there and dominate a guy with a lot of experience and make that next step.”

    Jon Jones Predicts UFC Title Within One Year

    Steveson trains alongside former UFC champion Jon Jones at Jackson Wink MMA, and Jones has a bold prediction for his teammate: UFC champion within 12 months.

    “One year from now, UFC champion,” Steveson said, relaying Jones’s words. “I believe it because I got full confidence in myself. But with a guy like John kind of got in the way for me, I feel like the confidence just goes through the roof. The best thing about it is he sees me firsthand training with him and hitting the pads and going through all the motions. So, his word is gold with that.”

    Steveson acknowledged the timeline might shift slightly. “And if it’s not next year, it’ll be soon after that. It just depends how the cards fall.”

    White House Card in Play

    The UFC’s rumored White House card is on Steveson’s radar. As a U.S. Olympic champion, he believes there’s a natural fit.

    “There’s got to be a place for a guy that can represent in America,” Steveson said. “I don’t think there’s one American champion right now besides [Gaethje]. But he’s kind of the interim. So if the White House happens for me, it happens for me. If it doesn’t, I keep moving on.”

    A knockout win in Mexico would prompt a direct call for the spot. “Yeah, most definitely. I’ll call for it. I think it’s rightfully so,” Steveson said. “Especially if it’s a big knockout that happens next Thursday — it’d be my third in MMA, one in dirty boxing.”

    Heavyweight’s Missing Puzzle Pieces

    Steveson sees opportunity in a heavyweight division he describes as having “a lot of missing puzzle pieces.” His approach remains measured despite the accelerated timeline.

    “We’re still going slow, but slow in the heavyweight division is fast,” Steveson said. “I think with my potential, my speed, my technique, my durability, my endurance — everything and my wrestling included — is going to be a new thing for people to see.”

    His striking development has surprised even himself. “I got lightning in my hands. You would have never guessed,” Steveson said. His last outing lasted 20 seconds — a knockout of an experienced, 220-pound opponent.

    Whether Thursday’s fight goes the same way or runs the full 15 minutes, Steveson says he’s ready. “I’m going to give you hell for 15 minutes. If it goes 20 seconds, there’s nothing I can do about it.”

  • Alex Pereira Teases Heavyweight Move With Cryptic Social Post

    Alex Pereira Teases Heavyweight Move With Cryptic Social Post

    Alex Pereira has fueled growing speculation about his long-anticipated move to heavyweight with a cryptic post on Instagram. The UFC light heavyweight champion captioned a post “1-2-3 and go” on Thursday, with many fans interpreting the numbers as a nod to his pursuit of a third UFC title in a third weight class.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DUrEcmaibDh

    The post arrives just two days after UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall shared a gruesome photo following double eye surgery, leaving the 265-pound division without an active champion for the foreseeable future. Aspinall was diagnosed with significant traumatic bilateral Brown’s syndrome after Ciryl Gane’s eye poke at UFC 321 in October.

    Interim Title Fight With Gane Gaining Steam

    With Aspinall sidelined indefinitely, rumors of an interim heavyweight title fight between Pereira and Ciryl Gane have gained serious traction. UFC commentator Joe Rogan revealed in December that he had heard significant chatter about the matchup, and even Aspinall has endorsed the idea, telling Paddy Pimblett, “It would be a good fight. I think it’s a good stylistic matchup.”

    A report from MMA journalist Rueben Carter on January 14 claimed Pereira had informed the UFC that he intends to vacate his light heavyweight title to move up in weight. No formal announcement has materialized yet, but today’s post suggests momentum is building again.

    A Historic Move In The Making

    Pereira originally targeted a superfight against Jon Jones at the UFC White House card on June 14, but that path stalled after Jones’ retirement and Dana White’s reluctance to book the fight. In December, Pereira posted on Instagram, “Looks like the White House is a no go!!!”

    The only fresh matchup remaining at light heavyweight is Carlos Ulberg, who is on a nine-fight win streak and has publicly called for the Pereira fight. But with the 38-year-old walking around at 235 to 243 pounds and the heavyweight division in limbo, a historic third title run appears to be the more likely path forward.

  • Justin Gaethje Hypes Potential Ilia Topuria UFC White House Fight

    Justin Gaethje Hypes Potential Ilia Topuria UFC White House Fight

    Justin Gaethje has made it clear: he wants Ilia Topuria (c) at the UFC White House card on June 14, and he’s not interested in waiting around.

    Speaking with Helen Yee at the Celebrity Sweat flag football game during Super Bowl week at Cal Berkeley, the interim UFC lightweight champion laid out his ideal 2026 in plain terms.

    “I hope I fight in June and get a win versus Ilia and then we’ll see from there,” Gaethje said. “See you in June at the White House. Let’s go.”

    The 37-year-old earned the interim lightweight title with a unanimous decision over Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 last month, headlining the first numbered event of the Paramount+ era. Now he has his sights firmly set on unification against the undisputed champion.

    Gaethje Focused on Fighting His Best

    When asked whether he needs a knockout to make a statement, Gaethje kept things simple. “No, of course. I’m always trying to knock everybody out,” he said. “But I just will fight my best and hardest. And for the fans.”

    The tone was measured and professional throughout, a far cry from the trash talk that often defines high-profile UFC matchups. Gaethje appears locked in on preparation rather than promotion, which tracks with the disciplined approach he took heading into UFC 324.

    The Pieces Are Falling Into Place

    The timing lines up on multiple fronts. Dana White confirmed earlier this week that matchmaking for the historic White House event is officially underway, with UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard flying in for the session. White said fights would be “dialed in by this weekend.”

    On the other side, Topuria signaled his return from personal leave earlier this month, and he previously indicated he was targeting a spring or summer bout against whoever held the interim title. The undefeated champion sits at 17-0 and has been dominant since arriving in the UFC, winning titles at both featherweight and lightweight.

    The June 14 event on the White House South Lawn is expected to feature six to seven fights, and a lightweight title unification bout between Topuria and Gaethje would be a natural centerpiece for what White has called “the greatest fight card ever assembled.”

    For Gaethje, who has fallen short in two previous undisputed title fights against Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira, this represents what could be his final shot at undisputed gold — and he knows it.

  • Nate Diaz Teases MMA Return, Eyes ‘BMF’ Title Opportunity

    Nate Diaz Teases MMA Return, Eyes ‘BMF’ Title Opportunity

    Nate Diaz is teasing a return to MMA, setting his sights on the ‘BMF’ title. Diaz posted on X on Wednesday asserting his claim as the originator of the ‘BMF’ title and his intention to win it.

    “Let’s not act like I didn’t start a whole division bringing value to all these guys claiming they’re it. I gave opportunity and put notice on the dopest fights. I got unfinished business and I plan on going and taking what’s mine ASAP. First to ever start a division and the dopest one at that.”

    Diaz previously lost to Jorge Masvidal for the inaugural ‘BMF’ title at UFC 244.

    As a free agent, Diaz has been inactive in MMA since approximately 2023, but is interested in a UFC return including the White House event in 2026.

    Diaz last fought in the UFC nearly three years ago. He has expressed interest in returning to MMA, boxing, and jiu-jitsu to stay active, and confirmed his interest in fighting at the UFC White House event in 2026. Diaz has also targeted Paddy Pimblett as a potential opponent for 2026. His last pro fight was in 2004, winning a majority decision in boxing.