MMA News

Category: UFC

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

  • Jon Jones and Alex Pereira Trade Barbs in Heated Weekend Exchange

    Jon Jones and Alex Pereira Trade Barbs in Heated Weekend Exchange

    Jon Jones and Alex Pereira spent the weekend firing shots at each other on social media, fueling speculation about a potential champion vs. champion superfight.

    The exchange kicked off Saturday when Pereira posted a video from the tire shop in Brazil where he worked before his UFC stardom. The clip showed a tire marked “Next Jones” alongside a hammer labeled “Poatan” — a not-so-subtle challenge to the former heavyweight champion.

    https://x.com/acentraldomma/status/2012573294214381961

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DTnEM1NlKH5

    Jones didn’t take long to respond. The UFC legend posted a video on Instagram warning Pereira about what he’s asking for.

    “I’ve beat a lot of legends from your country, my friend. I know you’d love to avenge the boys, but boy, would you be a good one to add to my list. Be careful what you wish for. Chama,” Jones said, borrowing Pereira’s signature catchphrase.

    Jones’ record against Brazilian fighters speaks for itself — he holds victories over Maurício “Shogun” Rua, Lyoto Machida, Vitor Belfort, Glover Teixeira, and Thiago Santos throughout his legendary career.

    The back-and-forth comes as both fighters position themselves for the UFC White House event scheduled for June 14, 2026. Jones retired last June but re-entered the USADA testing pool weeks later after President Trump announced the historic card. Pereira has been on a tear since reclaiming his light heavyweight title with an 80-second demolition of Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 320 in October.

    UFC CEO Dana White remains skeptical about booking Jones, previously telling Complex: “Can I count on Jon Jones? I can’t have Jon Jones doing something bad or pulling out of the White House fight.”

    Whether the trash talk leads to an actual booking remains to be seen, but Jones and Pereira have made their interest abundantly clear.

  • Conor McGregor Claims UFC Contract ‘Voided’ by $7.7 Billion Paramount Deal

    Conor McGregor Claims UFC Contract ‘Voided’ by $7.7 Billion Paramount Deal

    Conor McGregor has declared his UFC contract is essentially void following the promotion’s massive media rights deal with Paramount, setting the stage for high-stakes negotiations next month.

    The former two-division champion made the revelation during a recent live stream, explaining that his existing contract was structured around pay-per-view sales — a model that no longer exists under UFC’s new broadcasting agreement.

    “My contract, essentially, is void right now because there’s no more PPV, whereas my contract was based on PPV sales,” McGregor stated. “I’m the highest-generating PPV fighter of all time. The PPV system is done, I’m due a new contract.”

    McGregor confirmed he will enter negotiations with the UFC in February, expressing interest in how talks will unfold given the promotion’s dramatically improved financial position.

    “They’ve actually got a new deal with Paramount, it’s worth $7.7 billion. So the company has 4xed its profit,” he added. “We’re going into negotiations in February, and I’m very interested to see how it goes.”

    The 36-year-old Irishman, who holds a 22-6 professional record, hasn’t competed since suffering a broken leg against Dustin Poirier at UFC 264 in July 2021. He reportedly has two fights remaining on his current deal.

    McGregor has been vocal about returning at UFC White House on June 14, previously telling Sean Hannity the fight is a “done deal, signed, delivered.” A potential showdown with Michael Chandler remains the most likely matchup for the historic event.

    The contract situation highlights broader questions about fighter compensation in the post-PPV era, with several athletes reportedly restructuring their deals for higher guaranteed payouts under the new Paramount agreement.

  • Justin Gaethje’s Final Mission: ‘The End Is Near’ But He’s Chasing History at UFC 324

    Justin Gaethje’s Final Mission: ‘The End Is Near’ But He’s Chasing History at UFC 324

    Justin Gaethje admits what many fighters refuse to acknowledge—his career is in its twilight phase. But the 37-year-old isn’t ready to walk away. Instead, he’s chasing what he believes could be the most inspirational championship run in UFC history.

    Speaking with TNT Fight Sports ahead of his interim lightweight title clash against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 on January 24, Gaethje showed rare vulnerability about where he stands while simultaneously expressing unwavering hunger for one more title run.

    “I’m 37 years old. There’s no, you know, I’d be a fool to think that we’re just getting started here. The end is near,” Gaethje admitted.

    Despite acknowledging father time, “The Highlight” made clear his competitive fire hasn’t diminished. When asked whether he still has hunger for the interim title, Gaethje described fighting as an addiction he simply cannot escape.

    “Every single one of these is a traumatic life experience. There’s no matching the high or the low of winning or losing this sport. It kind of ruined other parts of life, but no, I am so hungry. I’ve never felt more alive than when I feel it. I will miss it when it’s gone,” Gaethje explained.

    All-or-Nothing Philosophy

    Gaethje has a signature phrase that captures his fighting philosophy better than any pre-fight hype. Asked if he’s already thinking about a potential Ilia Topuria fight after Pimblett, his answer was vintage Gaethje.

    “I’ve said it before. I don’t ever plan on being alive after the fight. So, if that’s how it ends, that’s how it ends,” Gaethje said.

    The former BMF champion enters every bout with total commitment, refusing to look past opponents or plan for what comes next. His complete focus remains on the task at hand, but he’s well aware that Topuria has been publicly offering advice to Pimblett, suggesting the champion would rather face the Liverpool star than “The Highlight.”

    “Yeah. I’m gonna Khabib and Ferguson this thing,” Gaethje said, referencing one of MMA’s most infamous cursed matchups—a fight scheduled and cancelled five times before Gaethje stepped in to replace Ferguson at UFC 249.

    Chasing the Most Inspirational Run in UFC History

    Gaethje believes a championship run at 37 years old would cement his legacy as one of the most inspirational stories in UFC history. He outlined his dream scenario with characteristic passion.

    “I just love the challenge. I love the opportunity to inspire people. If I can go out there, beat Paddy, beat Ilia, it’ll be the most inspirational thing that I think this sport has ever seen. I’m trying to do that for countless people. That’s my goal,” Gaethje said.

    His resume speaks for itself—he’s headlined nine or ten UFC events and fought top-five opponents in nearly every Octagon appearance. Now headlining the first numbered card on Paramount+, he sees an opportunity to cap his career with the ultimate achievement.

    “There’s a reason I’m still here is because I’m one of the best in the world. If they could have got rid of me, they would have got rid of me. But I continue to prove I’m one of the best,” Gaethje said.

    Looking beyond Pimblett, Gaethje revealed his ultimate dream matchup. He’s hoping Max Holloway defeats Charles Oliveira in their BMF title fight, setting up an incredible opportunity.

    “I hope Max wins. I hope he goes up and then I can fight Max on the White House card and take the BMF belt and the championship,” Gaethje said.

    When asked what fight he’d most like to see happen in 2026, Gaethje didn’t hesitate.

    “I would say myself versus Ilia Topuria on the White House card,” Gaethje concluded.

    Gaethje has twice fallen short in undisputed title fights, losing to Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira by submission. A win over Pimblett would position him for one final championship run against Topuria—and potentially the historic ending his career deserves.

  • Ilia Topuria Teasing Spring Return Against Winner Of Justin Gaethje Vs. Paddy Pimblett

    Ilia Topuria Teasing Spring Return Against Winner Of Justin Gaethje Vs. Paddy Pimblett

    A warning message to Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett: Ilia Topuria is watching.

    Topuria’s fighting career was left uncertain late last year when he announced that he would be stepping away indefinitely due to personal matters. The UFC lightweight champion has been dealing with a harsh custody battle involving his ex-wife.

    The champ’s unavailability led to the UFC’s decision, as revealed on Thanksgiving, to book Gaethje vs. Pimblett in an interim title fight to serve as the main event of UFC 324. But it doesn’t seem like the winner will have to wait long before unifying with “El Matador.”

    In a reply to fan questions on X, Topuria said he is aiming for a spring bout with whoever comes away with the interim gold.

    Ilia Topuria Aiming For Undisputed Title Fight In Spring

    The opponent he’s aiming for comes at a time where Arman Tsarukyan has recently spoken out on The Ariel Helwani Show about not receiving a lightweight title opportunity. Tsarukyan claims the UFC wants Pimblett to be a champion and teased the idea of either dropping to featherweight or going for the BMF belt.

    UFC CEO and President Dana White recently told Complex that Tsarukyan needs to work his way back to a title shot, citing the controversial headbutt in his staredown with Dan Hooker and pulling out of a title fight with Islam Makhachev with one day to go before UFC 311 at this time last year.

    Topuria knocked out Charles Oliveira at UFC 317 last year to win the UFC lightweight championship, which was vacated after Makhachev moved up from lightweight to welterweight.

    Topuria had been featherweight champion in 2024, winning the belt by finishing Alexander Volkanovski before retaining with a knockout of Max Holloway.

    UFC 324 takes place on January 24 from the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. It will be the UFC’s first event as part of its lucrative deal with Paramount.

  • Jorge Masvidal Teasing Return To Action, Addresses UFC White House Rumors

    Jorge Masvidal Teasing Return To Action, Addresses UFC White House Rumors

    Perhaps we’ll be seeing Jorge Masvidal returning to action for at least one more matchup soon? Masvidal is teasing such in a new interview, and it has rumors swirling about what Masvidal could be referencing.

    In an interview with MMAJunkie, Masvidal said that while he isn’t allowed to reveal much right now, he can confirm he has been training at American Top Team in Florida.

    Masvidal says he is in the midst of preparing for “something big.”

    “Some of it is like level-five only access, so I can’t really say too much,” Masvidal said. “I can say it’s some big news. I have some fight news coming soon, and it’s very big news.”

    Jorge Masvidal Willing To Take Any Spot To Be On UFC White House Card

    Plenty of speculation around this news points to the possibility that Masvidal could compete at the UFC White House card on June 14.

    Masvidal is a longtime supporter of U.S. President Donald Trump, and Trump was present for UFC 272. That event saw Masvidal and former teammate-turned-rival Colby Covington, also a devout Trump supporter, facing off in the main event.

    This also comes off the heels of a recent interview UFC CEO and President Dana White did with Complex, shooting down rumors of a Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler matchup for the event.

    White, however, has also shot down the idea of a McGregor vs. Masvidal matchup in the past, worried about a noteworthy size disadvantage for McGregor.

    While Masvidal could not provide more details about his ongoings, he did emphasize the honor it would be to compete at such a unique, once-in-a-lifetime kind of event like UFC White House.

    “Really, just the honor of fighting at the White House card,” Masvidal said. “I’ve fought at the Playboy Mansion, I’ve fought in Russia, I fought in South Korea, South America – I’ve fought in many places. Madison Square Garden. There’s not too many things I didn’t get to do throughout my career, and a lot of unexpected turns as well…So, I would definitely like to do this because, in my opinion, in my book, I don’t think this gets done again.

    “I get it if people don’t want to fight for the elitists or however they distribute the tickets, but I just want to fight at the White House. I’m a Latin m***********, from immigrant parents on both sides, putting my crafts and skills on display, at the highest level in the White House lawn. Who’s ever done that? Nobody. It should be a great honor for me and also to represent my Latin community.”

    Masvidal’s UFC career ended on a four-fight losing skid, last fighting at UFC 283 in a loss to Gilbert Burns.

    The inaugural BMF belt holder’s last taste of combat action came in July 2024, losing a boxing matchup to Nate Diaz.

  • Josh Emmett Vs. Kevin Vallejos Set To Headline UFC Vegas 114 In March

    Josh Emmett Vs. Kevin Vallejos Set To Headline UFC Vegas 114 In March

    After pulling off a finish in what was the biggest fight of his life, Kevin Vallejos has now earned his first UFC main event opportunity.

    Vallejos is scheduled to meet UFC veteran and former interim featherweight title challenger Josh Emmett in the main event of UFC Vegas 114 on 14.

    Emmett confirmed the news on his social media.

    Josh Emmett vs. Kevin Vallejos To Headline UFC Vegas 114

    For Emmett, this fight presents the opportunity of a needed rebound. Emmett has lost four of his last five, stemming back from his interim title fight loss against Yair Rodriguez at UFC 284. Emmett’s losses in that span have come against Rodriguez, Ilia Topuria, Lerone Murphy, and Youssef Zalal.

    Emmett’s sole win in that time period was his highlight knockout of Bryce Mitchell at UFC 296.

    Vallejos is 3-0 in the Octagon since earning a contract by knocking out Cam Teague on Dana White’s Contender Series in 2024. Last year, Vallejos put away Seung Woo Choi, earned a decision over Danny Silva, and finished Giga Chikadze.

    UFC Vegas 114 takes place on March 14 from the UFC Meta Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada.

  • Mohammed Usman Earns Lengthy Suspension For Failed Drug Test

    Mohammed Usman Earns Lengthy Suspension For Failed Drug Test

    You won’t be seeing Mohammed Usman putting on the gloves for a while — if ever again.

    The brother of former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman has accepted a two-year, six-month suspension as a result of violating the UFC’s anti-doping policy.

    Usman’s failed test stems back to October, when he was pulled from his scheduled UFC Rio matchup against Valter Walker for elevated testosterone levels.

    Usman’s suspension began retroactively on October 9, the day he was informed of the violation.

    Mohammed Usman Suspended For 2.5 Years For October 2025 Failed Drug Test

    “While Usman ultimately took responsibility for the above details, he did not do so in a timely fashion and not until CSAD confronted him with evidence they had independently collected during a detailed investigation of his use of these multiple prohibited substances as well as his attempt to deceive CSAD with a false explanation,” the UFC said in a statement. 

    “Under the UFC ADP [Anti-Doping Program], if a UFC athlete uses multiple substances like Usman did and engages in deceptive or obstructive conduct to avoid the adjudication of an Anti-Doping Policy Violation like he did, then aggravating circumstances are determined to exist. While aggravating circumstances can double a standard suspension, because Usman ultimately admitted to the prohibited behavior, CSAD determined that a six-month addition to the standard 2-year suspension for using these substances was appropriate for these aggravating factors.”

    Usman’s suspension will end on April 9, 2028. He will be 39 years old by that point.

    “The Motor” is 11-4 in MMA and last fought in June, defeating Hamdy Abdelwahab at UFC Baku. He is 4-2 in the UFC and won the heavyweight tournament of The Ultimate Fighter season 30.

    Prior to the UFC, Usman competed in Titan FC and had one bout with the PFL.

  • ‘Pick Who Ya Want’ – Conor McGregor Doesn’t Mind Dana White Shutting Down Fight With Michael Chandler

    ‘Pick Who Ya Want’ – Conor McGregor Doesn’t Mind Dana White Shutting Down Fight With Michael Chandler

    Conor McGregor says he’s ready to make his long-awaited UFC return — regardless of who that may be against.

    In a recent interview with Complex, UFC CEO and President Dana White said he has no interest in trying to make a fight between McGregor and Michael Chandler happen. Chandler had been on CBS recently promoting a positive sign that the two could face off at UFC White House.

    Now, McGregor has taken to social media, seemingly to respond to White’s remarks. And it appears that McGregor is not crying over the spilled milk that would be a fight with Chandler never coming to fruition.

    “Pick who ya want!” McGregor posted. “The Mac sweats nothin [sic] and nobody. I’m tasty shots.”

    Conor McGregor Open To Any Fight After Dana White Scraps Potential Fight With Michael Chandler

    McGregor and Chandler had been rumored to fight for about three years now. This stretches back to when the two were opposing coaches on season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter in 2023.

    Despite no rumblings of a fight in that year, the two were booked to fight in the originally planned UFC 303 main event. Less than a month before the fight, however, McGregor withdrew with a toe injury.

    McGregor re-joined the UFC drug testing pool this past summer, following U.S. President Donald Trump’s first revelation of the UFC’s plans for a card at the White House.

    The UFC card on the White House lawn is scheduled for Sunday, June 14.

    McGregor has not been seen in the Octagon since losing to Dustin Poirier at UFC 264.

  • Dana White Dismisses Michael Chandler’s Claims Of Conor McGregor Fight At UFC White House

    Dana White Dismisses Michael Chandler’s Claims Of Conor McGregor Fight At UFC White House

    Michael Chandler can hope all he wants, but UFC CEO and President Dana White claims a fight between Chandler and Conor McGregor is dead in the water.

    A fight between Chandler and McGregor has been nearly three years in the making now, stretching back to when the pair faced off as opposing coaches on season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter.

    Chandler recently appeared on CBS as part of the network’s New Year’s Eve Live: Nashville’s Big Bash show to ring in 2026 and promote the UFC’s new partnership with Paramount. As part of his time there, Chandler claimed that things were looking up for a fight with McGregor to finally happen — and happen at the UFC’s card on the White House lawn in June.

    In a new interview with Complex, however, White suggested that the fight is no longer possible.

    Dana White Says No Shot To Conor McGregor Vs. Michael Chandler At UFC White House

    “I mean, that was a couple years ago,” White said. “No.”

    Despite promotion that the two would face off at the end of TUF 31, the year 2023 came and went without a hint of a matchup announcement.

    Finally, at the UFC 300 post-fight press conference, White announced that the two would face off in the main event of UFC 303. The fight went up in smoke less than a month before the event, however, due to a toe injury suffered by McGregor.

    Since then, no fight announcement has been made, and Chandler has gone on to lose to Charles Oliveira and Paddy Pimblett at UFC 309 and UFC 314, respectively.

    Since the first announcement of the UFC White House card this past summer, McGregor has publicly advocated to make his UFC return at the event, going as far as to re-join the UFC’s drug testing pool.

    McGregor has not fought in the UFC since losing his trilogy bout with Dustin Poirier at UFC 264.

  • Kate Scott Joins UFC 324 Broadcast Team

    Kate Scott Joins UFC 324 Broadcast Team

    CBS Sports veteran Kate Scott has been added to the UFC 324 broadcast team as the on-site desk host for the promotion’s first event under its new Paramount+ media deal.

    Scott will anchor studio coverage from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on January 24, hosting pre-fight, intermission, and post-fight segments alongside analysts Michael Bisping, Dominick Cruz, and Chris Weidman. The broadcast will also feature Joe Rogan, Jon Anik, and Daniel Cormier on commentary.

    MMA journalist Ariel Helwani praised the hiring on social media, calling it an “unbelievable coup for the UFC.”

    “She is one of the absolute best, most professional talented hosts/broadcasters I’ve ever worked with. Fight fan. She instantly raises the profile of the events, IMO. Massive,” Helwani wrote.

    Scott brings extensive sports broadcasting experience to the UFC, having hosted major UEFA club competitions and global football events for CBS, along with previous work for CNN, Sky, and Fox.

    UFC 324 is headlined by an interim lightweight title fight between Justin Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett, with Sean O’Malley vs. Song Yadong also featured on the card. The event marks the UFC’s transition to Paramount+ streaming rather than traditional pay-per-view in the United States.

  • Kayla Harrison Confirms Emergency Neck Surgery Forced UFC 324 Withdrawal

    Kayla Harrison Confirms Emergency Neck Surgery Forced UFC 324 Withdrawal

    Kayla Harrison has revealed that emergency neck surgery forced her withdrawal from UFC 324, postponing her highly anticipated bantamweight title defense against Amanda Nunes.

    The two-time Olympic judo gold medalist shared an emotional video from her hospital bed in New York City, appearing in a neck brace following surgery to repair herniated discs. Harrison called the situation “a tough one,” confirming she is now on “day one” of her recovery and comeback.

    Fighting back tears, Harrison repeatedly apologized to Nunes, the UFC, and fans for the late withdrawal from the January 24 event.

    “I’ll be back soon,” Harrison promised.

    The champion also spoke about her faith during the difficult moment, saying she wants to honor God “in the good and the bad” and hopes her story can be used “in a powerful way.”

    Harrison thanked her surgeon Dr. Kim, UFC medical staff, her coaches and teammates at American Top Team, and her mother for caring for her children during her recovery.

    The UFC has not announced a new date for Harrison vs. Nunes, though the superfight between the reigning champion and the promotion’s most decorated women’s fighter is expected to be rescheduled once Harrison completes her rehabilitation.

  • Paulo Costa Making Light Heavyweight Debut Against Azamat Murzakanov At UFC 327

    Paulo Costa Making Light Heavyweight Debut Against Azamat Murzakanov At UFC 327

    Despite a win in his last outing, Paulo Costa will be taking on a new challenge — a new weight class — in his next bout.

    Per a report from Laerte Viana, the former UFC middleweight title challenger will be moving up to light heavyweight.

    Costa’s first fight at the weight class will be quite the test, taking on the undefeated Azamat Murzakanov at UFC 327.

    Costa had been scheduled to compete at UFC 326 against Brunno Ferriera. He’s since been replaced in the bout by Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues.

    Paulo Costa vs. Azamat Murzanakov Booked For UFC 327

    Costa has gone 2-4 in the UFC, with a number of withdrawals and re-bookings, since unsuccessfully challenging Israel Adesanya for the UFC middleweight title at UFC 253.

    After missing all of 2023, Costa dropped decisions to Robert Whittaker and Sean Strickland in 2024. He, however, successfully returned at UFC 318 with a decision win over Roman Kopylov.

    Murzakanov is 16-0 in the sport, including a 6-0 UFC record since arriving from Dana White’s Contender Series. Murzakanov scored the biggest win of his career at UFC 321 in October, knocking out Aleksandar Rakic.

    UFC 327 takes place on April 11 in Miami.

  • Justin Gaethje Plans to Test Paddy Pimblett’s Knockout Resistance at UFC 324

    Justin Gaethje Plans to Test Paddy Pimblett’s Knockout Resistance at UFC 324

    Justin Gaethje has a straightforward response to Paddy Pimblett’s claim that “Scousers don’t get knocked out”—he’s going to test that theory at UFC 324.

    Speaking with TNT Fight Sports ahead of their interim lightweight title fight on January 24, Gaethje laid out his game plan against the rising Liverpool star while acknowledging the challenges Pimblett presents.

    “We’ll see. We’ll see. I would try to test that theory,” Gaethje said when asked about Pimblett’s Liverpool toughness claims.

    The former interim champion identified what makes Pimblett dangerous while expressing confidence in his superior striking arsenal. Gaethje knows he needs to solve the puzzle early.

    “His aggression and funkiness is something that I’m going to have to figure out. And it’s going to have to figure out early,” Gaethje explained.

    While Gaethje plans to keep the fight standing where his power advantage is most pronounced, he made clear the grappling exchanges don’t scare him. The loss to Charles Oliveira by submission forced a significant training shift.

    “I’m not scared to go there. I’m not going to go out there and look to engage in wrestling or grappling because I think my skills on the feet are obviously better than his,” Gaethje said. “Ever since Charles Oliveira took me out, I’ve been grappling my ass off.”

    Gaethje also pointed to his takedown defense statistics as evidence of his wrestling credentials. As for Pimblett’s fight week antics, the 37-year-old veteran isn’t interested in participating.

    “It doesn’t involve me, so I won’t be part of that. Home relaxed, cutting weight, eating good food, and mentally preparing for war,” Gaethje said about handling the Liverpool fighter’s pre-fight showmanship.

  • Paddy Pimblett Predicts Early Finish of Justin Gaethje at UFC 324

    Paddy Pimblett Predicts Early Finish of Justin Gaethje at UFC 324

    Paddy Pimblett is confident he will stop Justin Gaethje inside three rounds when the two meet for the interim lightweight title at UFC 324 on January 24.

    Speaking with TNT Sports ahead of the bout, Pimblett revealed his game plan involves standing and trading with one of the most dangerous strikers in the division. Despite Gaethje’s reputation for devastating power, “The Baddy” isn’t planning to rely solely on his grappling credentials.

    “I’ll keep it on the feet with him,” Pimblett said. “There’s the blueprint there to beat him. Max done it.”

    Pimblett pointed to his performance against Michael Chandler as evidence that his striking has been underestimated. The Liverpool native believes he can outwork Gaethje on the feet while implementing a strategic approach that leads to an early stoppage.

    “Everyone underestimates my strike and everyone thinks I’m just going to come in and I’m going to take him down,” Pimblett explained. “I had an absolute war with Chandler and I pieced Chandler up. You’ll see come January 24th when we have a perfect game plan and we finish him within three.”

    The 30-year-old also addressed concerns about Gaethje’s ability to defend takedowns, suggesting his unorthodox style will pose problems regardless of where the fight takes place.

    “I don’t wrestle like a normal person. I do everything differently. I’m not normal,” Pimblett said. “He’s not going to be able to get a sparring partner in what grapples like me or strikes like me because I’m a weirdo. I’m very awkward. You can’t really get a sparring partner in to do me because I’m so awkward.”

    Despite the confidence, Pimblett remains a fan of Gaethje and expressed genuine respect for the former interim champion’s legacy in the sport.

    “I am a Justin Gaethje fan. Not was, I am,” Pimblett said. “Anyone who is an MMA fan and isn’t a Justin Gaethje fan isn’t an MMA fan. He’s your favorite fighter’s favorite fighter. The fact that I’m now getting in there against him is what dreams are made of.”

  • Kayla Harrison Withdraws from UFC 324 Title Defense Against Amanda Nunes

    Kayla Harrison Withdraws from UFC 324 Title Defense Against Amanda Nunes

    Kayla Harrison has been forced to withdraw from her highly anticipated title defense against Amanda Nunes, originally scheduled for next week’s UFC 324 event in Las Vegas.

    According to a report from The Eagle Tribune, Harrison underwent surgery this week to repair herniated discs in her neck. The injury reportedly made it impossible for the reigning champion to continue her fight camp or compete as planned.

    The UFC has not yet issued an official statement regarding Harrison’s withdrawal or offered details on whether the fight with Nunes will be rescheduled for a later date.

    UFC 324 was set to mark one of the promotion’s most anticipated matchups of the year, pitting two Olympic-level competitors against each other in a blockbuster main event. With Harrison sidelined, it remains unclear if the organization will look to find a replacement opponent for Nunes or postpone the bout entirely.

    More details are expected to follow as the UFC finalizes its updated plans for the Las Vegas card.

  • Amanda Nunes Recalls Dominating Kayla Harrison in Sparring Sessions

    Amanda Nunes Recalls Dominating Kayla Harrison in Sparring Sessions

    Amanda Nunes has recalled the early sparring sessions with Kayla Harrison at American Top Team, revealing that her technical precision dominated those training encounters.

    Speaking on the Paramount UFC Crew ahead of their UFC 324 title fight on January 24, Nunes discussed her striking philosophy and how it played out against the two-time Olympic gold medalist.

    “I’m very precise with my punches, my kicks. I know the right time and everything. So yeah, probably was a bad day for her or I don’t know,” Nunes said when asked about their gym sessions.

    Nunes credited her mother for instilling the striking fundamentals that have made her one of the most dangerous finishers in UFC history.

    “My mother was a big thing in my whole life and then she’s like taught me so many things and she was in my uncle’s corner when my uncle used to fight. So she like taught me a bunch of things. She these days like tell me some strategy, some things and it’s pretty cool,” Nunes explained.

    Despite the apparent dominance in training, Nunes acknowledged Harrison as a legitimate threat and predicted she would eventually reach the UFC.

    “I knew right away when she started calling me out and then talk about I knew because it’s not a lot of people out there, you know, she’s an athlete, she’s a good fighter, you know, and it’s not a lot of people that can keep it up with her. I knew she would make her way to the UFC,” Nunes said.

    The bantamweight champion Harrison will defend her title against the returning Nunes in the co-main event of UFC 324.

  • Amanda Nunes Details Her UFC Comeback: Destiny, Betrayal, Chasing History

    Amanda Nunes Details Her UFC Comeback: Destiny, Betrayal, Chasing History

    Amanda Nunes has revealed the full story behind her return to the UFC, detailing how she struggled to stay retired, the gym split that turned former coaches into opponents, and her drive to make history as a three-time champion.

    Speaking on the Paramount UFC Crew ahead of her bantamweight title fight against Kayla Harrison at UFC 324 on January 24, Nunes opened up about the internal battle she faced during her brief retirement.

    “One year passed by and I was kind of like looking at Nina around the house and say like, ‘Nina, I can’t stay away though. I can’t I’m trying so hard in one year,’” Nunes admitted about conversations with her wife Nina Ansaroff.

    The timing of Harrison signing with the UFC aligned perfectly with Nunes’ growing desire to compete again. The Brazilian legend felt it was destiny bringing them together for this showdown.

    “When that thought started like be more strong and Kayla signed with the UFC they say like this is just meant to be you know so everything’s coming together,” Nunes explained.

    Nunes also expressed concern about the state of the bantamweight division during her absence, feeling obligated to return and restore its prestige.

    “I always like nobody’s going to do anything with my division so I got to go in there and then you know what I mean make this great again. Then Kayla sign like even better though so make everything perfect.”

    The American Top Team Split

    The comeback has also been fueled by an awkward situation that developed at American Top Team, where Harrison called her out while still training at the same gym.

    “If you calling me out, if you want to fight me, you’re not supposed to be here training with my coach in the same mat in the same gym,” Nunes stated. “If I’m gonna face you, you’re gonna be out of here.”

    The tension began when Harrison, a two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo, joined ATT and initially sought to be Nunes’ training partner. However, once Harrison started publicly calling out the former champion, Nunes felt the dynamic crossed a line.

    “When she started really talk about me, calling me out and at the same time is being the gym and try to be my training partner. I started get like a little bit even more photo from her because this is the challenge that I like,” Nunes revealed.

    The situation has evolved further, with Nunes now facing her former coaches who have aligned with Harrison. Rather than viewing this as a disadvantage, Nunes embraces the adversity.

    “The attachment that I used to have with the gym, with the coach, people that’s always around me is doesn’t have anymore. They all is against me. So I look at them as my opponent too. I like to feel the challenge that this bring to me,” she said.

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by Kayla Harrison (@kaylaharrisonofficial)

    Targeting History

    Beyond the personal stakes, Nunes is motivated by adding an unprecedented chapter to her legacy. The former two-division champion revealed that her trophy wall at home drives her forward.

    “When I see the wall in my house, I just make like a very special wall for everything that I all my trophies and everything that I got in my whole career,” Nunes said.

    “And then when I wake up and it looks that that wall for me is enough. Now it’s going to be even more like something more that people never see before. I’m gonna become a champ again. So this is going to be in the history like in the top in the history.”

    A victory over Harrison would make Nunes only the second fighter in UFC history to win a title three separate times, joining Randy Couture in that exclusive club. The Brazilian legend dominated women’s MMA during her initial run, holding championships in both the bantamweight and featherweight divisions simultaneously.

    Nunes acknowledged that she wants more recognition in overall GOAT conversations that typically focus on male fighters like Jon Jones, Georges St-Pierre, and Anderson Silva. However, she maintains that external validation is not her primary motivation.

    “It doesn’t bother me honestly because this is what I like to do. I like fight. I do this for myself because I love this sport,” Nunes explained.

    UFC 324 marks the first major card of the Paramount Plus era, with Nunes vs. Harrison serving as the co-main event behind Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title.

  • Kayla Harrison’s Real Goal for UFC 324: Inspiring ‘Thousands of Little Girls’

    Kayla Harrison’s Real Goal for UFC 324: Inspiring ‘Thousands of Little Girls’

    UFC women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has revealed her ultimate goal heading into the biggest fight of her career isn’t personal glory—it’s inspiring thousands of young girls to pursue martial arts.

    Speaking with Daniel Cormier on the Paramount UFC Crew ahead of her UFC 324 title defense against Amanda Nunes on January 24, Harrison outlined a vision for her legacy that extends far beyond her own accomplishments.

    “On January 24th, Amanda and I are going to have a ridiculous amount of new eyes on the sport and we’re having potentially the greatest fight in women’s MMA history,” Harrison said. “The goal is for thousands of little girls to watch that and I become the greatest and maybe I’m the greatest for a day, maybe I’m the greatest for a week.”

    How Kayla Harrison Will Define Success

    The two-time Olympic gold medalist emphasized that her true measure of success lies in what comes after her fighting career concludes.

    “There are thousands of little girls who watch that and they start doing judo and they start doing wrestling and they start doing Muay Thai and then they grow up,” Harrison continued. “Not only do they stand on my shoulders, they just surpass everything I could have ever imagined for myself. They’re not a two-time Olympic champion, they’re a three-time Olympic champion. They’re a 10 time MMA world champ.”

    Harrison acknowledged she doesn’t fit the typical mold of a combat sports superstar but has embraced her authentic identity.

    “I’m not like the flashiest. I’m not like a knockout artist. I’m not the craziest on the mic, but I’m unapologetically myself.”

    The Ohio native summarized her philosophy with a simple but powerful statement about her purpose.

    “The goal is never for me to be the greatest of all time for all time,” Harrison explained. “That’s the goal is to leave this world better than I found it. In my little pocket of it.”

    Harrison’s perspective has been shaped by her own journey through adversity. Having been on the mat since age six and doing two-a-day training sessions since age 12, she understands the power of having role models to look up to.

    “To give anything less than your best is to sacrifice the gift,” Harrison said. “I just want to go out here every day and squeeze as much life out of the day as I can every day.”

  • Kayla Harrison Reveals Humbling Sparring Session with Amanda Nunes

    Kayla Harrison Reveals Humbling Sparring Session with Amanda Nunes

    UFC women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has revealed the exact moment she knew Amanda Nunes was the fighter to measure herself against, recalling a humbling sparring session during her second day at American Top Team.

    Speaking with Daniel Cormier on the Paramount UFC Crew ahead of their historic showdown at UFC 324 on January 24, Harrison opened up about her first encounter with the woman widely considered the greatest female fighter of all time.

    “I trained at a bunch of different gyms. I went to American Top Team. I sparred Amanda my second day there. I had never had a fight before,” Harrison recalled.

    “And I was like, ‘Oh like I got to move here. This girl.’ Like I had never been bested like that. With a woman, you know? Like sure, maybe guys like get the better of me, but like I was like, ‘Oh, no. This is the place to be.’”

    Training With Amanda Nunes Not What Kayla Harrison Expected

    The two-time Olympic gold medalist explained that she immediately recognized the level Nunes operated at and committed to training alongside her. However, Harrison admitted the training relationship she envisioned never quite materialized.

    “Not as much as I had pictured if I’m being honest,” Harrison said of their gym dynamic. “There wasn’t the training bond that I had pictured in my head. And I think that that’s just different in MMA than it is in Judo. In Judo you have kind of a training partner. I wanted to be that for Amanda.”

    Harrison referenced the traditional Japanese concept of kohai-senpai, explaining she had been ready to adopt a respectful subordinate role. “I was ready to come in and be her kohai. Where do you need me? Where do you want me? But it’s I don’t think it’s quite the same in MMA.”

    Despite the gym dynamic not developing as hoped, Harrison said her admiration for Nunes has never wavered.

    “It was never like I wanted to challenge her or defeat her in a ‘I’m going to prove I’m better than you,’” she explained. “It was just like a place of honor in my mind. You’re the greatest. I want to someday be what you are.”

    Now, eight years after that first sparring session, Harrison finally gets her chance to test herself against the woman who inspired her MMA journey.

    “This has been eight years in the making. I think that it’s a testament to my coaches, to my training, my work ethic,” Harrison said. “People would be surprised where you can get with a little bit of stubbornness and determination.”

  • UFC Renames APEX Facility to Meta APEX, Opens Public Ticket Sales for First Time

    UFC Renames APEX Facility to Meta APEX, Opens Public Ticket Sales for First Time

    The UFC has announced a naming rights partnership with Meta, officially rebranding its Las Vegas production facility as “Meta APEX.”

    The deal extends Meta’s role as UFC’s Official Fan Technology Partner, a multiyear agreement established in April 2025. Under the new arrangement, Meta branding will be integrated throughout the venue, with plans to create interactive experiences featuring VR, AI, and wearable technology for fans attending events.

    The home of @Zuffa_Boxing, @ufcbjj, and DWCS is now named @Meta APEX!!! pic.twitter.com/yJkeKFbbYx

    — danawhite (@danawhite) January 14, 2026

    “Meta is always at the forefront of technology and immersive experiences, and their enhancements will change the way fans view live fights,” said UFC CEO Dana White. “For the first time ever, fans can come to Meta Apex and experience UFC fights with interactive VR, AI, and wearable technology. I can’t wait for fans to see it.”

    Perhaps the biggest news for fans: tickets to Meta APEX events will be available to the general public for the first time in the venue’s history. Since opening in 2019, attendance has been limited to expensive VIP Experience packages costing thousands of dollars. Public tickets will now be sold through AXS.

    The facility is also undergoing significant renovations, expanding capacity to 1,000 attendees with new concessions, hospitality areas, retail space, and a remodeled entrance featuring a box office. The upgrades are expected to be completed later this year.

    Meta APEX will host select UFC Fight Nights, Dana White’s Contender Series, and Zuffa Boxing events, including the promotion’s inaugural card on January 23.

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

  • Israel Adesanya vs. Joe Pyfer, Alexa Grasso vs. Maycee Barber Announced For UFC Seattle

    Israel Adesanya vs. Joe Pyfer, Alexa Grasso vs. Maycee Barber Announced For UFC Seattle

    UFC Seattle’s headliner will see a former middleweight champion attempt to prove he is still a top talent in the division, while a rising star looks to make his biggest stride toward a future title shot.

    Former UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya will face Joe Pyfer in the main event of UFC Seattle, which takes place on March 28 at the Climate Pledge Arena.

    UFC CEO and President Dana White confirmed the news in an announcement on Instagram Live.

    Israel Adesanya vs. Joe Pyfer Headlines UFC Seattle On March 28

    This fight is perhaps a must-win for Adesanya, who enters with three straight losses and four defeats in his last five fights. Adesanya, a former two-time champion, has not recovered since losing the title to Sean Strickland in one of the UFC’s biggest upsets at UFC 293.

    Adesanya was knocked out by Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia last February, marking the first time he was finished in a non-title fight.

    Pyfer has risen up the UFC’s middleweight ranks since coming into the promotion off his known 2022 Dana White’s Contender Series appearance. Pyfer is 6-1 in the Octagon, most recently submitting Abus Magomedov at UFC 320 in October.

    The UFC Seattle co-main event will see Alexa Grasso facing off with Maycee Barber. This will be a rematch from UFC 258, which saw Grasso take a unanimous decision.

    Grasso is winless in her last three fights, which include the latter two fights in her women’s flyweight title trilogy with Valentina Shevchenko. Grasso comes into this fight off a loss to Natalia Silva at UFC 315 this past May.

    Barber has won seven straight since losing to Grasso. After medical issues kept her away from the Octagon for nearly two years, Barber defeated Karine Silva at UFC 323.

  • Arman Tsarukyan Potentially Eyes BMF, Featherweight Titles

    Arman Tsarukyan Potentially Eyes BMF, Featherweight Titles

    Arman Tsarukyan is done waiting around for gold, and he is now teasing looking at other championships in the UFC if the path is closed to the lightweight title.

    Tsarukyan was scheduled to challenge for that particular title, originally booked for the UFC 311 main event against then-champion Islam Makhachev. But on the day of weigh-ins, Tsarukyan pulled out of the title fight due to a back injury, and he appears to have had heat on him ever since.

    Tsarukyan finally returned to the Octagon this past November, submitting Dan Hooker in the main event of UFC Qatar.

    That fight was billed as a No. 1 contender’s matchup. Days later, however, the UFC announced that due to Ilia Topuria unable to defend the lightweight title currently, Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for an interim lightweight title was named the UFC 324 main event.

    When pressed by Ariel Helwani on a recent edition of The Ariel Helwani Show about why he isn’t in the interim title, Tsarukyan has a couple of ideas.

    “Because it’s a [sic] first Paramount fight. And second one, I’m too dangerous,” Tsarukyan said. “My opinion is that they want Paddy Pimblett to be a champion.”

    Arman Tsarukyan Addresses Lack Of Lightweight Title Shot; What Could Be Next?

    Tsarukyan acknowledged controversies he’s been involved in over the past couple of years, which he says the UFC has used as claims for why he shouldn’t get the next title shot.

    “They [are] saying the headbutt [on Hooker], [the UFC 311] pull out, that I punch [a] fan but I didn’t punch him,” Tsarukyan said.

    “I can just say yes and wait my chance.”

    Tsarukyan and a UFC fan appeared to get into it during his entrance at UFC 300, an event that saw him defeat Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan was suspended for the incident, delaying his title shot that would get scrapped by his UFC 311 pull out.

    Tsarukyan also came under fire for a headbutt that landed during the face-off with Hooker at the UFC Qatar ceremonial weigh-ins.

    Not helping matters at claiming the undisputed lightweight title is Topuria, who won the lightweight title by defeating Charles Oliveira at UFC 317, currently tied up in a messy divorce and custody battle.

    This has forced him to consider other avenues to become an undisputed champion. Tsarukyan told Helwani that there is a chance he could look to move down to featherweight for a title shot — or look to challenge for the BMF belt if Oliveira defeats Max Holloway at UFC 326.

    “I want the real title, but I don’t want to wait until then,” Tsarukyan said. “Ilia, he fights once a year. Maybe he defends his title in June and says, ‘Okay, I’ll fight next year, in June.’ Then what can I do?

    “I’m not that young to wait a lot, too. So, if they give me the BMF title, that would be great, too. If Charles Oliveira wins, it’s going to be good. We’ve got a story. [I’ll] just get that belt, and then the real belt.”

  • Alexander Volkanovski Addresses Retirement Rumors Ahead Of UFC 325 Title Defense

    Alexander Volkanovski Addresses Retirement Rumors Ahead Of UFC 325 Title Defense

    Plenty of people in the MMA community were left scratching their heads when Alexander Volkanovski’s next defense of the featherweight title was revealed to be a rematch with Diego Lopes at UFC 325.

    Having been less than a year since their first title clash, speculation started about why the fight was booked. Within that speculation came rumors that the fight would serve as Volkanovski’s retirement bout, win or lose — and debates on if it was time or not for Volkanovski to hang up the gloves.

    Now, in an appearance on the January 12 edition of The Ariel Helwani Show, Volkanovski publicly addressed the rumors of retirement for the first time.

    And he claimed that he has no idea where they came from.

    “I guess people are just going off of what I say,” Volkanovski said. “Like, I’m like, ‘How many more do I have?’ You know, if I was to get beaten up, am I going to come back and fight? No, but that’s not my plans.

    “Unless things go horribly wrong, I’m planning on going back out there.”

    Alexander Volkanovski Claims No Plans For Retirement After UFC 325

    This year marks Volkanovski’s 10th anniversary in the Octagon. Making his professional MMA debut in May 2012, Volkanovski arrived to the UFC as a 13-1 fighter in November 2016.

    He won his first seven Octagon fights, including wins over Jose Aldo, Chad Mendes, and Darren Elkins, before defeating Max Holloway for the UFC featherweight title at UFC 245. He made four consecutive title defenses, defeating Holloway (twice), Brian Ortega, and “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung-Jung.

    In 2023 and 2024, things seemed to hit a low point for Volkanovski. Outside of a successful title defense against Yair Rodriguez, he unsuccessfully challenged then-lightweight champion Islam Makhachev twice before dropping the featherweight title to Ilia Topuria at UFC 298. At UFC 314, however, he regained the then-vacant championship by defeating Lopes.

    Volkanovski admitted, however, that it wasn’t long after that fight that he had an honest conversation about his future.

    “There was a talk straight after my last fight.” Volkanovski said. “I’m like, ‘How many more?’ You never know. There were talks like that, but as soon I started training, I was like ‘Ah, let’s keep going.’”

    Volkanovski took a clear unanimous decision over Lopes in their first meeting, but Lopes rebounded with a finish of Jean Silva in the main event of Noche UFC 3 in September.

    Nevertheless, Volkanovski aims for a similar (or better) result this go-around.

    “Right now, I plan on everything going well, getting my hand raised, hopefully taking minimal damage so I can have a good turnaround,” Volkanovski said. “So the plan isn’t definitely to retire.”

  • Dana White Set for Big Announcement Amid ‘Disconnected’ Criticism

    Dana White Set for Big Announcement Amid ‘Disconnected’ Criticism

    UFC CEO Dana White is scheduled to go live on Instagram later today (Tuesday, January 13) for what the promotion is billing as a “special announcement.”

    Has Dana White Been Disinterested in UFC?

    The announcement comes just one day after MMA journalist Ariel Helwani devoted a segment of his show to criticizing White’s recent media appearances, calling him “disconnected and disinterested” in the UFC product.

    Helwani specifically pointed to White’s CBS Mornings appearance promoting the upcoming Kayla Harrison vs. Amanda Nunes fight, noting the UFC CEO failed to mention Harrison’s two-time Olympic gold medal credentials while calling it “the greatest female fight of all time.”

    Paramount+ added fuel to the speculation by responding to UFC’s announcement tease with an eyes emoji, strongly suggesting the news involves the promotion’s new streaming partnership. UFC officially transitioned to Paramount+ on January 1 as part of a $7.7 billion, seven-year deal that eliminates the traditional pay-per-view model.

    UFC 324, set for January 24 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, will mark the first live event of the Paramount+ era. The card features Justin Gaethje vs. Paddy Pimblett for the interim lightweight title and Harrison defending her women’s bantamweight championship against returning legend Amanda Nunes.

    While no specific time has been announced for today’s Instagram Live, fans can expect updates on UFC 324 and potentially broader scheduling news as the promotion kicks off its new broadcast era.

  • Francis Ngannou’s Coach on UFC Return: ‘Hopefully They Can Reconcile and Just Let That Sh*t Go’

    Francis Ngannou’s Coach on UFC Return: ‘Hopefully They Can Reconcile and Just Let That Sh*t Go’

    Francis Ngannou’s head coach Eric Nicksick is hoping his fighter and UFC CEO Dana White can put their differences aside, even if a return to the Octagon never happens.

    Speaking with MMA Fighting, the Xtreme Couture coach addressed the ongoing tension between Ngannou and White, which has intensified since the former heavyweight champion’s departure from the UFC in 2023.

    “I know what Francis brings to me and my family, and the way that he treats me, and that’s the way I judge him by his character. Same with Dana. Dana’s been nothing but nice and great to me,” Nicksick said. “I wish that somewhere down the line that these two could mend those fences, just on a personal level. I’d rather have friends than enemies.”

    White recently shared details of an alleged physical altercation with Ngannou from years ago, further straining their relationship. But Nicksick isn’t interested in the drama.

    “It’s like, f*ck, I don’t want to carry that energy every day. So hopefully they can reconcile and just let that sh*t go. Even if Francis never fights in the UFC ever again, like just move on.”

    Ngannou has competed just once since signing with PFL, stopping Renan Ferreira in the first round at PFL Battle of the Giants in October 2024. A potential matchup with PFL heavyweight champion Vadim Nemkov looms, though Nicksick admitted he’d love to see Ngannou back in the UFC.

    “He can do whatever the hell he wants to do. I think, on a personal level, I’d love to be able to see him compete in the UFC just because of the level of competition that he would go against.”

    Ngannou Open to UFC Return at White House Card

    Nicksick’s comments come as Ngannou himself has opened the door to a potential UFC return. The 39-year-old revealed on The Ariel Helwani Show that his PFL contract is nearing its end and could expire in time for the UFC’s planned White House event on June 14.

    “I’m getting very close on the PFL contract ending,” Ngannou said. “They have to give me a fight.”

    When asked about facing Jon Jones at the White House card, Ngannou expressed interest while acknowledging the uncertainty. He said he’s not “confident” a deal can be made but believes “there’s a chance” and that “anything can happen.”

    However, White has shown no signs of warming to the idea, recently dismissing any possibility of bringing Ngannou back for the event. Despite Ngannou’s openness, a UFC return appears unlikely unless both sides can find common ground — something Nicksick clearly hopes will happen.