MMA News

Category: UFC

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

  • Islam Makhachev’s retirement: Khabib gives honest opinion of his timeline

    Islam Makhachev’s retirement: Khabib gives honest opinion of his timeline

    UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has given his thoughts on a potential timeline for the mixed martial arts retirement of Islam Makhachev.

    At the age of 33, Islam Makhachev has already achieved some incredible things in the sport of mixed martial arts. Now, though, he’s hoping to take things to a whole new level as he prepares to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for the UFC welterweight championship. If he wins, he would join an exclusive club of fighters who have won UFC world titles in two different weight classes.

    One question that has been circulating recently is also a pretty important one: when will Islam Makhachev retire?

    Nobody knows for sure but in a recent interview, Islam Makhachev’s close friend and long-time training partner Khabib Nurmagomedov provided some insight.

    Khabib Nurmagomedov discusses Islam Makhachev’s eventual MMA retirement

    “Islam maybe, my honest opinion, one and a half, two years because [his] age [in] October is going to be 34. Nobody is going to be [the] same. When time comes, they don’t ask what’s your name… When you become 35, you need to stop doing this because [you should] leave this sport for young guys.

    “When you become 35 and you don’t finish, somebody is going to finish you. Why? It’s better to finish. After 35, you’re never going to be the same. People can talk whatever they want, when you’re past your prime, you [are] going to fight only for money.”

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

    Enjoy him while you still can, folks.

  • Dricus du Plessis explains why he’s so confident heading into Khamzat Chimaev fight at UFC 319

    Dricus du Plessis explains why he’s so confident heading into Khamzat Chimaev fight at UFC 319

    UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis has explained why he’s feeling so confident as he prepares to defend his belt against Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC 319.

    Later this month, Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev will finally square off. While there have been many words exchanged between the two men, it’s safe to say that the fight itself is what is drawing in the attention of the masses.

    These two warriors are incredibly talented in their own right and when it comes to Dricus du Plessis, he has made a career out of proving people wrong. Now, he’s hoping to do the same again against a man who was once seen as the scariest fighter in mixed martial arts – and, for some, he perhaps still is.

    In a recent interview, Dricus du Plessis spoke candidly about this contest and why he’s feeling so confident in himself.

    Dricus du Plessis explains his confidence heading into UFC 319

    “With my style that is a very controversial style in the UFC, unlike anything that most people have ever seen,” Du Plessis told FOX 32 Chicago, “it’s only a benefit because it’s proven to be effective. But then again, how do you prepare for that? How do you find somebody to mimic that? And at the end of the day, that’s almost my niche. It’s impossible to prepare for me because I have this unique style that, where do you find somebody to mimic it?”

    “I’m the underdog, I’ve been the underdog for most of my career, yet I am the champion,” Du Plessis said. “So, odds don’t make fights and for me, I 100 percent believe this is the best opponent that I have faced to date. But so was the previous one. 

    “Every time you step in there, you’re going to face the next most dangerous guy – especially as the champion. So for me, yes, this is the best opponent I’ve ever come up against, but once again, I’ll show my improvements and why I am the champion.”

    Quotes via MMA Junkie

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov Offers Hope to Conor McGregor, Claiming He Can Still Change

    Khabib Nurmagomedov Offers Hope to Conor McGregor, Claiming He Can Still Change

    UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov is of the belief that his long time rival Conor McGregor is still capable of changing his ways.

    As we know, Khabib Nurmagomedov is one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time. He was able to retire from the sport with an undefeated record of 29-0, and his most notable win came against Conor McGregor. The two battled it out back in late 2018 in the most lucrative fight in the history of the sport, and in the end, it was Khabib who managed to secure the win via submission.

    Ever since then, it feels like McGregor has been on something of a downward spiral. While Khabib Nurmagomedov was able to ride off into the sunset during the pandemic, Conor hasn’t quite retired – or, at least, not properly. He’s also been embroiled in numerous controversies outside of the cage, and that’s putting it lightly.

    During a recent interview, Khabib Nurmagomedov surprised many by suggesting that there is a route back from the edge for the Irishman.

    Khabib Nurmagomedov believes there’s a way back for Conor McGregor

    “I don’t wanna mention his name,” the 29-0 Russian began.

    “This is punishment… The most beautiful part of this is Allah always give the chance to come back.

    “We always have in this world the chance to come back, and this is the most beautiful thing.

    “It doesn’t matter how you’ve been, Allah is gonna give you a chance always to come back.

    “I think he has a chance. He has to change how he is living.

    “Why am I talking about this? If he’s gonna change, he can change with him so many other lives too.

    “That’s why I wish him to change himself. If he’s not gonna change, it will be punishment all his life.”

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

  • Muhammad Mokaev Maps His Path Back To the UFC: “There’s no bad blood”

    Muhammad Mokaev Maps His Path Back To the UFC: “There’s no bad blood”

    Former UFC flyweight Muhammad Mokaev seems to be pretty confident that he will eventually make his return to the promotion.

    At the age of just 25, Muhammad Mokaev is already one of the most talented flyweights in all of mixed martial arts. However, despite his undefeated record, the younger was ousted from the company following several disagreements behind the scenes with higher-ups. Since then, he’s been able to win two more fights in his post-UFC run, although many are still hoping to see him back in the big dance one day.

    Of course, that all depends on what kind of attitude the company is going to have here. We all know that flyweight is full of some top guys, but the addition of Muhammad Mokaev would certainly inject some real life into proceedings. Alas, the UFC were clearly quite unhappy with him, and there are some problems that need to be resolved before things can move any further.

    In a recent interview, Muhammad Mokaev made it crystal clear that he expects to be back inside the octagon at some point in the future.

    Muhammad Mokaev expects eventual UFC return

    “I believe one day, if I get a couple finishes, UFC will sign me back. There’s no bad blood between me and the UFC.”

    Mokaev is still young and he still clearly has a lot left to learn about the sport. With that being said, Alexandre Pantoja is one of the most interesting champions out there in MMA right now – and this is a matchup that would be pretty fascinating.

  • Nassourdine Imavov Reveals UFC Paris Gameplan: “I will just demolish him”

    Nassourdine Imavov Reveals UFC Paris Gameplan: “I will just demolish him”

    UFC middleweight star Nassourdine Imavov has revealed his plan of action heading into his upcoming UFC Paris main event against Caio Borralho.

    Over the course of the last few years, Nassourdine Imavov has been on a pretty solid run at 185 pounds. After a loss to Sean Strickland and a no contest against Chris Curtis, he has been able to string together four straight wins – with his latest being an emphatic TKO triumph over former champion Israel Adesanya, which served as the biggest victory of his career to date.

    As we look ahead to the immediate future, Nassourdine Imavov knows the next challenge that he has in front of him: Caio Borralho. Both of these men are considered to be future title contenders in their own right, but whoever gets the win in the French capital will be the one who really gets on the radar of Dana White and the UFC.

    In a recent interview, Nassourdine Imavov wasn’t shy when discussing his game plan as we get closer and closer to fight night.

    Nassourdine Imavov reveals Caio Borralho game plan

    “I’m a complete fighter. I consider myself complete, so if it has to go to the ground, we will, and I will welcome him.”

    “I will just demolish him.”

    Imavov has been getting progressively more confident inside the cage and at the age of 30, he’s starting to really come into his prime. Of course, Borralho is equally as dangerous in the eyes of many, which makes this a really fascinating clash.

  • Nassourdine Imavov Explains Why He Declined the Backup Role for UFC 319’s Title Headliner

    Nassourdine Imavov Explains Why He Declined the Backup Role for UFC 319’s Title Headliner

    Nassourdine Imavov has no interest in being a backup fighter.

    Sitting as the top-ranked contender in the middleweight division, Imavov is ready for his first UFC title opportunity. But to get it, he’ll have to go through surging 185-pound sensation and Fighting Nerds co-founder Caio Borralo. The two will headline a loaded Fight Night card in Paris, France, when the promotion heads back to ‘The City of Light’ on September 6.

    A mere three weeks before that, Imavov and Borralho will have their eyes on UFC 319’s highly anticipated clash between reigning and defending middleweight champion, Dricus du Plessis, and undefeated Chechen monster Khamzat Chimaev.

    Despite Imavov being the No. 1 ranked contender in the division, Borralho will step on the scale as the official backup in Chicago. As it turns out, that’s because ‘The Sniper’ had already turned down the UFC’s offer to be the backup for du Plessis vs. Chimaev.

    “He’s just taking my leftover, because I declined the backup,” Imavov told MMA Junkie. “If I hadn’t declined, the UFC wouldn’t have called him. For me, being the backup fighter for a title shot is not an honor. When I want to fight for the title, I want my face on the poster.”

    “After the fight between Khamzat and DDP, everyone will forget that Caio was a backup—it’s something that has no sense.”

    A title opportunity hangs in the balance as Nassourdine Imavov gears up for his fight with Borralho

    Imavov goes into his second straight main event riding a four-fight win streak. That includes a stunning second-round knockout of former two-time titleholder Israel Adesanya in February.

    Meanwhile, Borralho enters the biggest fight of his career with a perfect 7-0 record inside the Octagon, his most recent W coming against perrenial contender Jared Cannonier.

    The winner between Imavov and Borralhoh is expected to leave Paris as the next man up for either du Plessis or Chimaev, depending on how things play out in ‘The Windy City’ later this month.

  • Michael Bisping Recounts When He Defeated a Serial Killer: “Somebody did really try and kill me.”

    Michael Bisping Recounts When He Defeated a Serial Killer: “Somebody did really try and kill me.”

    Michael Bisping was nearly the victim of a notorious serial killer that terrorized northern England two decades ago.

    In August 2021, ‘The Count’ revealed on his YouTube channel that as a teenager, he was the victim of a home invasion. Bisping delivered disturbing details of the account, claiming that a man had stormed into his home armed with a hammer, gasoline, and ill intent.

    “But if you really want to know about a time somebody did really try and kill me, I’ll take you back to 1997.”

    Bisping continued, “He drops the petrol canister and kind of looks at me a bit weird; he pulls his jacket to one side and pulls out a lump hammer… and he just comes storming towards me like that and I’m like, oh my god!”

    At the time, Bisping believed the intruder was someone he knew looking to settle a score.

    “So I think it’s Roy… and he’s come back to get revenge or whatever. So that gives me a ton of confidence. So I open the door and I go to go with him—he swings the lump hammer and I move back and I just feel the wind of the lump hammer going past my face. He throws my ironing board at me, I knock that out of the way, and I’m chasing after him—now I’ve only got a pair of shorts, no shoes… He gets away.”

    As it turns out, the unidentified assailant may have been England’s infamous ‘Hammer Killer.’

    Did one of England’s most brutal serial killer’s target Michael Bisping?

    Between 1991 and 2004, a string of unsolved murders in northern England followed a similar pattern, with forced entry, petrol-soaked crime scenes, and blunt force trauma from a hammer. The attacks ceased abruptly and investigators have been unable to identify the killer, but the confession of a man currently serving a life sentence for rape and arson has brought the horrific incidents back into light and attracted the attention of the former UFC star. 

    The convict recently became the subject of a prison interview titled Face-to-Face with a Monster: My Exclusive Prison Interview with the Man Claiming to Be Northern England’s Elusive Hammer Killer, and he claims that Bisping was one of his intended targets. 

    “He terrorized a region for over a decade, left a trail of unsolved murders, and now he says Michael Bisping was his next victim,” read a post on X that Bisping reposted adding: “Where you see this? This did happen to me.”

  • Disney Earnings Report Indicates UFC PPV Purchases Continue To Decrease

    In the wake of ESPN making major moves in the sports broadcasting world, its parent company, Disney, released its third quarter earnings report. And the report indicates concerns regarding UFC pay-per-views.

    The report’s sports category indicated a one percent increase in domestic revenue for ESPN in the 2024-25 fiscal year, as well as a -7% change in operating income (loss). As it pertains to the increase in revenue, one of the points noted to cause such is listed as “lower Ultimate Fighting Championship pay-per-view fees due to lower average buys per event.”

    In layman’s terms, as noted by Robert Joyner, ESPN has paid the UFC less over the past year due to pay-per-view numbers decreasing.

    This is particularly noteworthy, as the UFC’s U.S. broadcasting rights deal with ESPN, which was signed in May 2018 and began in January 2019, is set to expire at the end of the year. Previous reports have stated the UFC is looking for a $1 billion broadcasting agreement.

    Netflix, who has a connection with the UFC’s parent company, TKO — thanks to its broadcasting agreement with the WWE that started earlier this year — has been a name brought up in potential suitors. Given this news, it is noted that many have speculated whether or not a UFC deal with Netflix would have a pay-per-view paywall element to it for those numbered cards.

    UFC PPV Numbers Reportedly On Continued Noteworthy Decrease

    It is also not the first time that a report concerning UFC pay-per-view numbers like this has come out this year. Back in March, the New York Post reported that ESPN and UFC relationship had turned sour. The UFC was reportedly unhappy with the broadcast technology used by ESPN, especially in the wake of a particularly troubling UFC 313 broadcast, while ESPN was dissatisfied with a significant decrease in pay-per-view purchases since the deal began.

    A Yahoo report from May indicated that month’s UFC 315 was trending to be one of the lowest, if not the lowest, bought pay-per-view in UFC history.

    Adam Stern of Sports Business Journal, however, reported in early June that the UFC’s talks with ESPN were the “furthest along” amongst all potential broadcasters.

    As Joyner posted on social media, a mostly agreed-upon issue amongst the online MMA community is that the UFC is struggling with star power.

    When looking at some of the UFC’s biggest needle movers, it’s noted that Conor McGregor has not fought for the promotion since UFC 264 in July 2021. Furthermore, Jon Jones had a three-year break from MMA before competing just once in 2023 and 2024 before his two-week retirement this year. Other names from some of the UFC’s most-bought pay-per-views, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Nate Diaz, Ronda Rousey, and Jorge Masvidal are no longer under UFC contract, if not retired from MMA completely. It’s believed the UFC’s recent attempts of making new stars is not working.

    Fans and pundits, on a related note, have also criticized the UFC for an oversaturation of the market with the number of cards it runs per year. While some bigger pay-per-view cards might be filled with notable names, other cards, whether pay-per-view or Fight Night, may not be.

    This is a trend that has followed the UFC since the early days of its U.S. broadcasting deal with Fox during the 2010s. It was, however, reported in 2020 that ESPN expected 42 events from the promotion in order for the UFC to not risk a guaranteed payout (which, on a side note, is reportedly why UFC pushed heavily for events go on even in the earliest portions of the COVID-19 pandemic).

    ESPN’s broadcasting deal with rival promotion PFL, meanwhile, is set to expire after 2026.

    This Disney Earnings Report’s release also comes mere hours after ESPN agreed to a five-year deal with WWE, worth $325 million per year, to air WWE’s Premium Live Events (PLEs) in the U.S. This deal is expected to go in effect with WrestleMania 42 this coming April, following the conclusion of WWE’s current PLE U.S. broadcasting deal with Peacock, which began in 2021.

    Just days ago, it was confirmed that ESPN would also be acquiring a number of assets from the National Football League (NFL), including its NFL Network and NFL RedZone channels, in exchange for a 10 percent stake in ESPN.

    ESPN is set to replace the current ESPN+ streaming service with a new direct-to-consumer streaming service, also called ESPN, on Thursday, August 21. The new app will cost $29.99 per month.

  • Conor McGregor Faces $7.5 Million Lawsuit from Ex-Training Partner

    Conor McGregor Faces $7.5 Million Lawsuit from Ex-Training Partner

    Mixed martial arts figures Artem Lobov and Conor McGregor, once close training partners and public allies, are now entrenched in a high-stakes legal dispute over the lucrative Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey brand. Lobov has filed a lawsuit against McGregor in Ireland’s High Court, claiming he played a foundational role in conceiving and launching the whiskey, and that he is owed a 5% share of proceeds from the company’s eventual multi-million dollar sale.

    Conor McGregor Being Sued By Artem Lobov

    Lobov alleges that in 2016 or 2017, he and McGregor reached a handshake agreement in which Conor McGregor promised him a 5% stake in the business, equivalent to a multi-million dollar payout based on subsequent company valuations. Lobov contends he originated the idea to pivot McGregor’s planned spirits venture from an Icelandic vodka to an Irish whiskey, leveraging his own market research and knowledge of the sector. According to Lobov, his negotiations secured a favorable deal with the distillery and ensured McGregor would have full ownership of the business from the outset, without financial investment.

    In his statements, Lobov has produced what he claims are WhatsApp message records and other evidence to support his contention that he was instrumental at every stage, from conceptualization to brand development. Lobov further asserts he declined remuneration for years of training with McGregor, emphasizing loyalty and prior unpaid contributions.

    Proper No. Twelve Irish whiskey

    The financial context for the lawsuit is significant. Proper No. Twelve, founded in 2018, quickly rose to become one of the fastest-growing Irish whiskey brands in the United States, with annual sales reportedly in excess of 330,000 cases domestically. Lobov has cited independent market data indicating the brand generates around $120 million in yearly U.S. sales and may be valued as high as $2 billion, ranking second in the nation’s Irish whiskey market behind Jameson. In 2021, McGregor and his business partners sold their controlling stake to Proximo Spirits for approximately $600 million. Lobov seeks $7.5 million – a figure he says reflects his purported five-percent ownership stake from the business’s high-water valuations.

    McGregor, through counsel and public statements, has denied that Lobov has any rightful financial claim or entitlement to a share of Proper No. Twelve. His legal team characterizes the creation and commercial development of the whiskey as solely McGregor’s work, with no official written partnership or binding obligation to Lobov. McGregor’s representatives have stated that any suggestion that Lobov is owed part of the proceeds is incorrect, and that McGregor’s role as the founder and public face of the brand is undisputed.

    Court proceedings remain ongoing. The High Court has ordered McGregor to disclose records of his financial gains from the whiskey sale as part of discovery. Lobov, in interviews, has indicated he provided evidence of his involvement to McGregor in attempts to resolve the dispute privately, but contends that McGregor rebuffed these efforts and offered him a one-time payment of $1 million – an offer Lobov declined, seeking recognition as a co-founder instead.

    As of August 2025, the case has not gone to full trial. Additional filings and cost orders have been reported, but the outcome remains pending.

    Artem Lobov and Conor McGregor shared a close personal and professional bond for years, both as training partners and friends. They first connected in the mixed martial arts community, training together under John Kavanagh at SBG Ireland, where Lobov often cornered and supported McGregor during major fights. Their relationship extended beyond the gym, with Lobov frequently appearing alongside McGregor at events and in media.

    Conor McGregor has been frequently involved in headline-grabbing controversies extending beyond the fighting arena. In November 2024, a civil jury in Dublin found McGregor liable for sexually assaulting a woman named Nikita Hand at a hotel in 2018, resulting in an order for him to pay over €248,000 in damage.

    Separately, McGregor publicly admitted in 2025 to infidelity in his long-term relationship with Dee Devlin, acknowledging “mistakes” and expressing regret for stepping out on his fiancée, particularly in the context of the civil rape case’s fallout. He has also faced new cheating allegations after photos surfaced showing him with another woman in Florida.

    Beyond legal and relationship controversies, McGregor’s behavior has sparked additional criticism. In June 2025, a video emerged of him repeatedly punching a partygoer in Ibiza’s Pacha nightclub. Witnesses described the altercation as unprovoked, and while the victim was reportedly unharmed, Spanish police did not pursue an investigation.

    Additionally, Conor McGregor has been named in harassment claims by public figures, such as rapper Azealia Banks, who accused him of sending unsolicited and explicit photos and threatening messages via social media.

    Conor McGregor Reportedly Appeals Civil Sexual Assault Verdict
    Image: @thenotoriousmma/Instagram
  • “Believe In Yourself…” – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 11 Recap

    “Believe In Yourself…” – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 11 Recap

    Welcome, everyone, to the 11th edition of The TUF Stuff!

    Each week, I’ll be guiding you through a recap of this season’s edition of The Ultimate Fighter, providing updates on what happens in each episode — from the drama and storylines out of the Octagon, to the looks into who the competing fighters are, to what goes down inside the cage.

    This season celebrates the 20th anniversary of TUF. That inaugural season from 2005 helped to influence many future MMA fans, media members, and fighters (yours truly included). And now, two more fighters this summer will get the opportunity to call themselves TUF champions when it’s all said and done.

    Last week saw the first welterweight semifinal, with Team Cormier’s Rodrigo Sezinando defeating teammate Jeff Creighton to secure his spot in the finale fight, which will take place during the prelims of UFC 319.

    Recap of The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 – Episode 11

    Now, Team Cormier’s Imanol Rodriguez will take on Team Sonnen top pick Joseph Morales to see who faces Team Cormier’s Alibi Idiris in the flyweight finale!

    Let’s get into episode 11 of The Ultimate Fighter!

    TUF House

    The guys are playing chess in the house when they are surprised by Mairon Santos, one of the winners of last year’s TUF season.

    Santos is stopping by because he’s preparing for an upcoming match. Dana White reflects on how Santos went from being one of the last Team Grasso picks and went on to become a TUF champion.

    Santos tells the TUF contestants that the show taught him about believing in himself. Santos says while others were drinking and goofing off, he was training and staying true to himself.

    “You have to believe in yourself. Nobody’s gonna do that for you,” Santos said.

    Rodrigo Sezinando says as a fellow Brazilian, Santos’ success is influential on him.

    Joseph Morales Fight Prep

    Morales says he feels good about the matchup. He says he feels Rodriguez will be speedy. Sonnen tells him when he feels Rodriguez’s power, it won’t be what Morales is used to.

    Morales says he’s going to make Rodriguez commit to his shots and work exchanges to score a takedown and submit him.

    Sonnen tells Morales to mix things up with his striking, even putting an example of the different kinds of striking Urijah Faber has (Morales is a member of Team Alpha Male).

    Sonnen tells Morales to be “Bopo,” which Sonnen describes as an “alter-ego” who’s “another animal” that he would be scared of. Sonnen discusses the timing of “flipping the switch” and turning things up.

    Imanol Rodriguez Call Home

    Rodriguez’s girlfriend calls him and, in Rodriguez’s words, his inner child came out.

    Rodriguez is filled with tears and admits he could not speak. Rodriguez emotionally says he is sorry for leaving his girlfriend and his family. His girlfriend assures Rodriguez that she and his family are all proud of him and support him. More of Rodriguez’s family is shown in the background, and Rodriguez becomes emotional again.

    Rodriguez swears he won’t be away from them for so long again. His family assures him, however, that they have his back.

    Rodriguez says this call has motivated him to a point that he’s more dangerous than ever before.

    Imanol Rodriguez Fight Prep

    Rodriguez recognizes Morales’ previous UFC experience, and that means he has to approach Morales differently and be smarter.

    Cormier says Rodriguez is one of his favorites and has so much potential for his age. Cormier, however, says Morales is a tough guy with a lot of skills.

    Cormier says because Morales is so well-rounded, Rodriguez needs to use his powerful hands and needs to be wrestling offensively.

    Cormier says he worked with Rodriguez on entries because he thinks with enough pressure, Rodriguez can take Morales down and de-moralize the Team Sonnen fighter.

    “If you put [a wrestler] on his back, you start to realize what kind of mixed martial artist he is,” Cormier said, adding that he feels Rodriguez is a better fighter than Morales.

    Rodriguez says no matter how experienced and talented Morales is, anyone can fall, and he swears he will prove he is ready for the UFC.

    Joseph Morales Call Home

    Morales talks with his family and is very emotional seeing them. His wife admits one of their children broke their 75-inch TV, which Morales earned with his first UFC performance bonus.

    She says all of the parents and kids are asking about him and are excited to see him back soon. Despite the sacrifice, his family told Morales to pursue the once-in-a-lifetime dream.

    Morales says while he misses his family, and their love filled his heart again, he needs to stay extra focused and do whatever to win.

    The Fight: Imanol Rodriguez vs. Joseph Morales

    —–IF YOU HAVEN’T WATCHED THE EPISODE AND DON’T WANT TO BE SPOILED, THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO TURN AWAY NOW.———

    Morales weighs in at 126. Rodriguez weighs in at 125.5. The fight is on!

    Roybery Echeverria says he gives the edge to his teammate, Morales, because of how well-rounded Morales is. He, however, won’t count Rodriguez out because of his power.

    Tumelo Manyamala says Rodriguez’s boxing will play a role in the fight, and his wrestling and pressure will help take Morales down.

    White says both guys are well-rounded and he’s excited to see who has what it takes to reach the finale.

    Imanol Rodriguez vs. Joseph Morales

    Round 1

    Rodriguez on the outside. Morales throws a jab. Right hand by Rodriguez. Cormier tells him not to reach. Rodriguez flashes the left and then lands a one-two. Morales with a left hand. Morales’ head kick is blocked. Combination to the body by Rodriguez. One-two by Morales. Right hand by Rodriguez. Morales grabs a hold and takes Rodriguez down! Morales quickly gets on Rodriguez’s back, next to the fence. Rodriguez is back up, but Morales returns him to the mat. Morales locks up a body triangle and is looking for the choke! Rodriguez is trying to fight the hands and work out of the body triangle. Cormier yelling directions, telling Rodriguez to wrestle.

    Rodriguez still fighting the hands, though Morales is perfectly in control here. Morales works his way into mount! He lands a couple of punches before taking the back again. Rodriguez continues to fight, and he eventually grabs a wrist and starts to turn himself. Morales still has the body triangle, however. Rodriguez keeps turning with wrist control and he ends up on top. Morales threatens a triangle choke! He’s still controlling Rodriguez. Rodriguez gets free and back to the feet with 20 seconds left. One-two by Rodriguez. Left hand by Morales.

    Round 2

    Left hand by Rodriguez. Left hand from Morales as Rodriguez throws a one-two. Rodriguez lands a one-two after Cormier tells him to pressure. Right hand by Rodriguez. Morales lands a punch now. One-two by Rodriguez. Cormier suggests it’s a pressure battle — and Rodriguez comes forward with a big flurry! Morales scores a takedown, but Rodriguez quickly gets back to the feet. Rodriguez attacks again, with Cormier telling his fighter that Morales is desperate. Left hand from each man. One-two by Rodriguez, and he prevents a takedown. Cormier says if he keeps going, he’ll finish Morales. Morales with a right hand. Rodriguez misses a body shot. Morales shoots in, but Rodriguez prevents it. Morales misses the one-two and misses the right hand.

    Rodriguez tries to get inside. One-two again by Rodriguez. Rodriguez slips up Morales with a right hand. Uppercut by Rodriguez. Cormier tells Rodriguez to take Morales down. He tries, but Morales prevents it. Cormier tells Rodriguez to use it with his strikes. “Be first!” Morales lands a right. Morales with two shots. Morales aims for the body. Hook by Morales. Left hand by Rodriguez. Morales shoots in and scores the takedown. Morales survives the scrambles and gets to the back. Rodriguez scrambles and gets on top. Rodriguez escapes a triangle attack and returns to the feet. Morales coming forward now and he lands to the body. Left hand by Rodriguez. Morales returns. Morales with a one-two. Left hand by Morales. Right hand by Rodriguez. Right hand by Morales. And again. And again. Morales fakes a level change and lands again. Left hand by Morales. A couple of more jabs by Morales. Rodriguez finally throws, but Morales responds. Failed spinning attack by Rodriguez before the bell.

    Rodriguez’s coach asks if he really wants this fight and, if so, then to throw everything he’s got.

    Round 3

    One-two by Morales. Left hand from Rodriguez. Morales landing the left jab. Right hand by Morales. Combination to the body by Rodriguez. Rodriguez catches a kick. Left hand by Rodriguez. Right hand by Morales. Rodriguez shoots in and brings Morales to the fence. Rodriguez scores the takedown. Sonnen tells Morales to create space. Morales giving up his back. Rodriguez is on him. Morales grabs the fence briefly. Rodriguez presses Morales forward. Rodriguez gets a body triangle on Morales. Morales’ corner tells him to turn and to use his elbows.

    Rodriguez’s corner tells him to win wrist control. Rodriguez hunts for the choke. He’s on the neck! He’s under it now. Morales fights and avoids it. Rodriguez back under it briefly. Cormier tells Rodriguez to attack the left wrist. Morales sitting up, but Rodriguez is still on his back. Morales still unable to escape. Rodriguez holds the position for most of the round. Morales finally escapes with mere seconds left, but it’s way too late for him to do any offense.

    Winner: Morales via split decision

    Conclusion

    Sonnen says Morales was trading with Rodriguez and was working combinations in the first round. He adds Morales picked Rodriguez up with ease. White said it was complete control; however, Rodriguez avoided significant damage.

    Cormier says Rodriguez fought exactly how he was supposed to in round two, emphasizing the need for Rodriguez to be first in this matchup. Morales started to come back late in the second round, however, with White admitting Morales’ shots late in the round made it a toss-up.

    Then, Cormier said, as they trained, Rodriguez took Morales down and controlled him the entire round. Sonnen said he wasn’t nervous and felt they just needed to grind down the clock — though you can’t think like that.

    Morales says it felt great holding his picture of his family, victorious and gives respect to Rodriguez.

    Morales and Rodriguez hug in the Octagon.

    Morales is emotional in the locker room, saying he couldn’t do it without his coaches and teammates. Now, he’s ready to prep for Idiris.

    Rodriguez says he’s left speechless in disappointment, feeling that he won. Rodriguez is emotionally in pain in the locker room, while his coach tries to console him and tell him it’s not over till it’s over.

    Next week, it’s the last fight of the semifinals, as Team Cormier’s Daniil Donchenko faces Team Sonnen’s Matt Dixon!

    Also, UFC Hall of Famer and TUF season two winner Rashad Evans visits to help Team Sonnen in their training session!

    What will happen next week? Join alongside us then for the final TUF episode of the season!

    Thanks for joining me for another edition of The TUF Stuff!

  • Robert Whittaker is heading for MMA retirement says fellow UFC middleweight

    Robert Whittaker is heading for MMA retirement says fellow UFC middleweight

    UFC middleweight Caio Borralho believes that Robert Whittaker could be getting closer and closer to retiring from the sport of mixed martial arts.

    As we know, Robert Whittaker is an absolute legend when it comes to his run in the middleweight division. He’s had some major wins and he’s even held the world title. However, after losses to Khamzat Chimaev and Reinier de Ridder, some have questioned whether or not he still has what it takes to compete at the elite level.

    Of course, Robert Whittaker himself is the only one who knows for sure how much longer he wants to continue competing, and whether or not he wants to test the waters with a venture up to light heavyweight.

    In a recent interview, though, Caio Borralho became the latest person to weigh in on the state of Robert Whittaker’s career.

    Caio Borralho believes Robert Whittaker will soon retire

    “I don’t think so,” Borralho told The Schmo on Whittaker returning to the top five. “Robert Whittaker is a f*cking legend. I’m a big fan of him and all that he’s done in the sport. (He’s) one of the GOATs in the middleweight (division). But right now, I feel that it seems like he doesn’t want to be there anymore.

    “His face says that. His body expressions say that. I don’t think he wants to go there and do, like, a five-round war again. I don’t believe that. With all due respect to him, I’m a big fan – but right now, it’s just not his moment anymore. I think he’s very close to retire or something like that.”

    Quotes via MMA Junkie

  • Renato Moicano Explains Why He Refused Settlement Money Amid UFC Controversy: “I don’t think UFC is a monopoly”

    Renato Moicano Explains Why He Refused Settlement Money Amid UFC Controversy: “I don’t think UFC is a monopoly”

    UFC star Renato Moicano has revealed why he refused the settlement money offered to him from the UFC antitrust lawsuit agreement.

    As we know, Renato Moicano is one of many fighters on the roster of the Ultimate Fighting Championship. He was also someone who was part of the UFC antitrust lawsuit, which was intended to try and give back to the fighters who have, in the eyes of many, been severely underpaid over the years.

    However, following the settlement, Renato Moicano noted that he turned down the financial offering that was presented to him. As you can imagine, this led to plenty of questions from those in the community, including some of his fellow fighters.

    In a recent interview, Renato Moicano opened up on why exactly he made that decision.

    Renato Moicano explains why he turned down settlement money

    “The lawsuit was about labeling UFC as a monopoly, but I don’t think UFC is a monopoly. If they were, there would be legal barriers that prevent other shows coming in. UFC is better than the competition.”

    “It’s not up to the government or the judges to decide what is right or wrong. I believe in a free market and people making their own decisions.”

    Regardless of whether or not you agree with Moicano’s stance, it certainly feels as if the issue of fighter pay is one that will continue to cause great debate within this sport for many years to come – especially in the UFC, given their size and overall control in the MMA landscape.

  • Khabib Nurmagomedov Sends a Message of Inspiration to Palestine

    Khabib Nurmagomedov Sends a Message of Inspiration to Palestine

    UFC legend Khabib Nurmagomedov has sent a message of positivity to the people of Palestine in the midst of the ongoing occupation and genocide in the country.

    For the longest time now, Khabib Nurmagomedov has served as an inspiration to people all over the world. In addition to his magnificent mixed martial arts career, he’s also done everything in his power to help the masses. Khabib is a proud Muslim and, as you can imagine, he’s been deeply impacted by what has been going on in Gaza over the course of the last few years.

    Unfortunately, it doesn’t appear as if there is any immediate end to the tragedies that are happening, despite the outcry from so many. In a recent video, Khabib Nurmagomedov sent out a wonderful message to those who are currently suffering.

    Khabib Nurmagomedov sends a message to the people of Gaza

    “I just wanna tell you guys, you guys inspire the world. Because of you guys, so many millions of people understand who is who, and they understand how beautiful is our religion. Alhamdulillah. Keep inspiring the people, keep inspiring the world. One day, Inshallah, Allah will make easy.”

    “We will land in Palestinian airport one day.”

    Khabib is a man who sticks by his morals and has done for his entire life. While the people of Palestine may not currently be free, we can only hope and pray that as the days, weeks and months continue to tick by, we get closer and closer to a peaceful resolution.

  • Roman Dolidze Demands a Title Shot against Khamzat Chimaev “I always wanted to fight Khamzat”

    Roman Dolidze Demands a Title Shot against Khamzat Chimaev “I always wanted to fight Khamzat”

    UFC middleweight Roman Dolidze has made it crystal clear that he wants to battle Khamat Chimaev for the world title at some point in the future.

    Of course, a lot of things need to happen before then. Firstly, Roman Dolidze needs to defeat Anthony Hernandez, who he’ll battle in his next outing. If he does that, the 37-year-old would’ve extended his current win streak to four – and in a division like this one, that’s certainly a solid enough run to raise a few eyebrows in the conversation for championship opportunities.

    In addition to that, though, Khamzat Chimaev also needs to defeat Dricus du Plessis at UFC 319 to become the new UFC middleweight champion. Roman Dolidze clearly seems to believe that’s going to happen but at this point on time, it’s safe to say that the mixed martial arts community is split when trying to determine who is going to come out on top in that electric main event.

    Ahead of his upcoming fight, Roman Dolidze gave his thoughts on a possible matchup between himself and Chimaev.

    Roman Dolidze wants UFC title shot

    “I always wanted to fight Khamzat. He’s a great fighter. Whoever wins, it doesn’t change anything for me, but if you ask me who I want to fight, I want to fight Khamzat.”

    Dolidze knows that right now, this is an unlikely showdown – but if the stars align, and he’s able to continue pushing himself to the limit at this point in his career, it could soon become very viable.

  • UFC Champ Dricus Du Plessis Will Shock the World Against Khamzat Chimaev Accoring to Middleweight Contender

    UFC Champ Dricus Du Plessis Will Shock the World Against Khamzat Chimaev Accoring to Middleweight Contender

    Dricus du Plessis will retain his UFC middleweight championship against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319, says top contender Anthony Hernandez.

    As we know, Dricus du Plessis is gearing up for arguably the toughest test of his career to date. He will square off against Khamzat Chimaev, and he’ll do so knowing that many people don’t believe he can get the job done. Of course, this is DDP we’re talking about here, and he’s already overcome plenty of challenges when people didn’t expect him to do so.

    With that being said, Khamzat Chimaev is a different animal entirely. He has beaten some elite levels throughout his time mixed martial arts and although Dricus du Plessis has been a phenomenal champion thus far, you’d have to imagine ‘Borz’ is coming into this one as confident as he ever has been.

    In the eyes of the aforementioned Anthony Hernandez, though, Dricus du Plessis is the one that we should be backing heading into fight night.

    Anthony Hernandez backs Dricus du Plessis to beat Khamzat Chimaev

    “I think DDP is going to shock the world again. He’s a big, tough, awkward [expletive]… I’m still not really sold on Khamzat. I understand he’s good and he’s dangerous, yada yada… who was it, Usman gave him a run for his money off the couch. So how does he do with somebody that’s like a real 85er?”

    DDP knows that he’ll have to be at the top of his game, but we can’t imagine pressure is something that’s going to impact him too much.

  • Dricus Du Plessis Has The Size And Skill To Dominate 3 Divisions, Says UFC Veteran

    Dricus Du Plessis Has The Size And Skill To Dominate 3 Divisions, Says UFC Veteran

    Dricus du Plessis has what it takes to accomplish something no one has ever done in the UFC, at least according to a former fighter.

    Du Plessis is gearing up for his third middleweight title defense as he faces the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev in a high-stakes UFC 319 main event on August 16 at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

    While Chimaev may be the toughest challenge yet for “Stillknocks”, a victory could open the door to even greater opportunities. The 31-year-old South African has made it clear he’s eyeing a move up in weight, with ambitions of becoming a two-division UFC champion.

    However, former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub believes Du Plessis has the potential not just to claim two titles, but to become a legitimate threat across three divisions.

    Dricus Du Plessis
    Image: UFC.com

    Brendan Schaub Says Dricus Du Plessis Could Become UFC’s First Triple Champion

    During a recent appearance on the JAXXON podcast, former UFC heavyweight Brendan Schaub shared his thoughts on why Dricus du Plessis should set his sights beyond the middleweight division once he handles business against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319.

    According to Schaub, “Stillknocks” possesses both the tools and the physique to move up to light heavyweight in pursuit of a second title, and he believes a jump to heavyweight could follow as Du Plessis looks to carve out a historic legacy in the UFC.

    “I think whoever wins out of Khamzat and DDP, whoever wins that can go for three belts,” Schaub said. “DDP’s bigger than Khamzat, so light heavyweight, he’s probably a light heavyweight naturally. So it makes sense for DDP to go to light heavyweight. Heavyweight’s not as far a stretch for him. DDP’s a big boy.”

    Dricus du Plessis is no stranger to multi-division success. During his run in KSW between 2017 and 2018, he captured both the welterweight and middleweight titles.

    “Stillknocks” last stepped into the Octagon at UFC 312 this past February, where he delivered a commanding performance to earn a unanimous decision victory in a rematch against Sean Strickland. Du Plessis remains unbeaten in the UFC, boasting a perfect 9-0 record, with six of those wins coming by way of stoppage.

    Dricus Du Plessis
    Image: UFC.com
  • Former Joaquin Buckley Defeater on Former Teammate Kamaru Usman’s Big UFC Atlanta Win

    Former Joaquin Buckley Defeater on Former Teammate Kamaru Usman’s Big UFC Atlanta Win

    Joaquin Buckley is looking to rebound after a recent loss to Kamaru Usman, and a previous opponent of Buckley’s who implemented a similar game plan to garner a victory over ‘New Mansa’ has offered his thoughts on that UFC Atlanta fight. This is also a combatant who has had prior instances of training at the same gym as Usman, with this former interim Bellator MMA welterweight champion training with the former UFC welterweight champion at Sanford MMA, now Kill Cliff FC, at certain points years back.

    Logan Storley appeared on Bowks Talking Bouts to discuss that UFC Atlanta headliner among several other subjects and did so ahead of his PFL welterweight tournament title bid that saw him eventually fall short to Thad Jean. Storley’s wrestling pedigree is notable and with the Buckley connectivity, the context was presented on how the lack of anti-wrestling seemed to play a big role in that UFC Atlanta loss to the former welterweight titleholder.

    When asked if he could impart some advice to someone like Buckley if tasked with trying to help with rebuilding the UFC welterweight contender after the Kamaru Usman setback, Storley said,

    “Yeah, Buckley was very, very athletic, very strong. I did a great job with timing and control and beating him up on the ground, you know. That’s where; same thing Kamaru [Usman] kind of did, you know. Obviously, I’m not his coach. So I don’t know. [Joaquin] Buckley’s very, very talented. He looked great against Colby [Covington], but Kamaru’s, you know, one of the best to do it. He had a great game plan to get out there and just smother him and dominate him. So you know, it was tough for Buckley.”

    Joaquin Buckley and the story of his Logan Storley fight

    Logan Storley previously bested Joaquin Buckley and secured that victory over the surging UFC combatant back at Bellator 197. This transpired on April 13th, 2018, as Storley stepped into the cage with a 7-0 professional MMA record opposite Buckley’s pro mixed martial arts ledger of 8-1.

    After a wrestling-heavy performance that had many similar components to how Usman approached the Buckley fight, Storley would emerge with a unanimous decision victory over ‘New Mansa’ inside of The Family Arena in St. Charles, Missouri.

  • UFC Rankings Report: Tatsuro Taira Returns To Top 5 At Flyweight Following UFC Vegas 108 Win

    UFC Rankings Report: Tatsuro Taira Returns To Top 5 At Flyweight Following UFC Vegas 108 Win

    The latest action on offer inside the Octagon has seen some climb the UFC rankings toward contention and others fall away.

    And in the aftermath of Saturday’s UFC Vegas 108, MMA News has you covered with this week’s complete updates.

    Men’s Pound-For-Pound: No changes.

    Women’s Pound-for-Pound: No changes.

    Women’s Strawweight: No changes.

    Women’s Flyweight: No changes.

    Women’s Bantamweight: Following her win, Karol Rosa moves up one spot to No. 9, swapping places with Yana Santos (now No. 10). Despite losing to Rosa, Nora Cornolle remains at No. 12.

    Flyweight: Following his win, Tatsuro Taira moves up one spot to No. 5, swapping places with Kai Kara-France (now No. 6).

    Bantamweight: No changes.

    Featherweight: No changes.

    Lightweight: No changes.

    Welterweight: No changes.

    Middleweight: No changes.

    Light Heavyweight: No changes.

    Heavyweight: Following the UFC parting ways with Martin Buday, Valter Walker enters the rankings at No. 14. Mick Parkin and Tallison Teixeira each move up one spot to No. 12 and No. 13, respectively.

    This week’s new UFC rankings were first reported by John Morgan. UFC.com’s rankings section still to be updated as of publication time.

  • “My skill is higher than the champion. That’s not a doubt at all” – UFC Contender Ready to Dethrone the Champ

    “My skill is higher than the champion. That’s not a doubt at all” – UFC Contender Ready to Dethrone the Champ

    Tatsuro Taira is ready for a crack at reigning UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja.

    Following a closely contested split decision loss against Brandon Royval in October, Taira bounced back in a big way on Saturday night, scoring a dominant submission victory against rising 125-pound prospect Hyun Sung Park.

    Taira forced Park to tap out just 66 seconds into the second round of their Fight Night headliner, solidifying his spot as the division’s sixth-ranked contender and potentially setting a stage for a clash with Pantoja.

    “I 100% believe my skill is higher than the champion,” Taira told reporters during the UFC Vegas 108 post-fight press conference. “That’s not a doubt at all.”

    Tatsuro Taira was unfazed by the late-notice change in opponent at UFC Vegas 108

    Originally, Taira was scheduled to face fellow flyweight contender Amir Albazi, but ‘The Prince’ was ruled out of Saturday’s main event after not being medically cleared to compete. Instead, Taira fought Park, who entered their matchup with an unblemished 10-0 record.

    “The opponent changed,” Taira added. “It was Hyun Sung Park, I knew him from winning the Road to UFC, but I’m the best in the flyweight [division]. I’m very confident and I believe that I’m the best, so not a huge issue for me.”

    Taira’s performance against Park was especially impressive considering he’d just suffered his first career loss 10 months prior.

    “From my last fight I learned my weakness,” Taira said of his loss to Royval. “But my team, everyone from my team still believed that I would be a champion, so I just kept working hard, promising that I’ll be back.”

    Overall, Taira is 17-1 with five of his seven wins inside the Octagon coming inside the distance.

  • Arman Tsarukyan Highlights Surprising Detail From Khamzat Chimaev’s Training Ahead Of UFC 319

    Arman Tsarukyan Highlights Surprising Detail From Khamzat Chimaev’s Training Ahead Of UFC 319

    Arman Tsarukyan has revealed the intensity of Khamzat Chimaev’s demanding training routine.

    Chimaev is slated to headline UFC 319 on August 16 at the United Center in Chicago, where he will challenge reigning middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis for the title.

    “Borz” has faced a string of cancellations and setbacks, with medical issues and unforeseen hurdles severely limiting his activity. As a result, he has competed just five times in the Octagon since September 2020. He has previously opened up about his inactivity, attributing it to pushing himself too hard in training.

    According to the undefeated Russian, extreme overtraining left his body drained, ultimately compromising his immune system and making him more susceptible to illness. Having been part of Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC 319 training camp, Tsarukyan understands the toll such intensity can take.

    Image: @arm_011/Instagram

    Arman Tsarukyan Shares Khamzat Chimaev Hired Coach To Prevent Overtraining

    During a recent interview with Kamil Gadzhiev, Arman Tsarukyan weighed in on Khamzat Chimaev’s intense training habits. According to the UFC lightweight contender, “Borz” often entered fight night far from his peak, having drained himself through relentless overtraining.

    To address the issue, Chimaev’s team has now brought in a dedicated coach tasked with managing his workload and closely monitoring his recovery to ensure he performs at his best when it matters most.

    “Khamzat’s never at 100% on fight night because he constantly overtrains,” Tsarukyan said. “After sparring, he always goes to work the bag, lift weights, etc. He’s one of those guys you have to tell when it’s time to stop. He’s now being tested daily to monitor his recovery. They have devices that show his recovery status every day, and if he’s in a slump, they help pull him out of it. They give him more time to relax, because when you’re overtrained, you can’t work properly in sparring. We need a guy who will control this 24/7 and stop him at the right moment so he won’t overtrain.”

    “Borz” was last seen in action at UFC 308 in October 2024, where he delivered a dominant first-round submission win over former champion Robert Whittaker. Khamzat Chimaev holds a flawless 8-0 record inside the UFC and stands at 14-0 overall, with an impressive 12 of those victories coming via stoppage.

    Khamzat Chimaev
    Image: @khamzat_chimaev/Instagram
  • 6 Hits And 1 Miss From UFC Vegas 108: Tatsuro Taira vs. Hyun Sung Park

    6 Hits And 1 Miss From UFC Vegas 108: Tatsuro Taira vs. Hyun Sung Park

    After about two months away, the UFC was back in its headquarters for UFC Vegas 108 (aka UFC Fight Night: Tatsuro Taira vs. Hyun Sung Park) on August 2.

    It was the first UFC Fight Night to take place at the UFC APEX since the May 31 card that saw its main event between Erin Blanchfield and Maycee Barber get canceled as walkouts for the main event were getting underway.

    The main event for this night (which did happen) saw Tatsuro Taira take on Hyun Sung Park. Taira was originally scheduled to face Amir Albazi, but Albzai withdrew from the fight on a week’s notice, leaving Park to set up on significantly short notice.

    Taira, who entered this fight ranked No. 6 at flyweight, looked to get back in the win column after a loss to Brandon Royval in October — the first loss of Taira’s career.

    Park came into the bout 10-0, with him winning his first three Octagon bouts after winning the flyweight tournament on season one of Road to UFC.

    Who came through in Vegas? Who went bust? Let’s find out with the hits and misses of UFC Vegas 108!

    Miss – What To Do About Weight Misses?

    This isn’t a gripe that should go specifically against the card itself, but it’s kind of damning when you have not one, but two fighters who miss weight by a noteworthy margain.

    Felipe Burnes missed weight for his fight with Rafael Estevam by a solid four pounds. And then Tresean Gore had a 3.5 pound miss for his fight with Rodolfo Vieira. Both fighters ended up paying 25 percent of their purse, and both fighters lost their fights, but imagine if they didn’t.

    I’ve griped in this column for a couple of weeks now about the scoring system in MMA, but there’s got to be something done about missing weight. I understand the dangers of the weight cut and don’t want to jeopardize a fighter’s health; however, I do feel that if you miss weight, that’s a horrible look on you. And I completely understand the fighters who feel disrespected by it. Remember just a few years ago when we had a notable stretch in the UFC that saw more fighters who missed weight win? Heck, this is Estevam’s second time missing weight in his last three fights!

    The California State Athletic Commission adopted a rule years ago that they can order a fighter no longer fight at such a weight class. I think this needs to be adopted by and respected by all the commissions out there. Emphasis on commissions — it’s not enough for the promotions like the UFC to try this and enforce it; all parties need to be on board.

    You can mock the PFL for their regular season and playoffs format, but when it came to weight missing, they were strict with it. And honestly? I think they came up with an idea we can apply. When the PFL was beginning the 2021 season, they stated fighters who missed weight would be deducted one point in the standings and be ineligible to receive any points.

    Well, how about fighters who miss weight are automatically deducted one point before the fight even begins? How’s that sound?

    Hit – Austin Bashi

    Austin Bashi is not even 25 years old, and yet he’s already built himself up on the regional scene through promotions like the XFC and Lights Out Championship. And while his UFC debut did not go his way, he looked impressive in his outing against John Yannis.

    After absorbing an early head kick, Bashi rocked Yannis with a right hook, secured a takedown, and quickly took the back. He maintained control with a body triangle and eventually locked in a rear-naked choke for the win.

    It was a quick and strong showing from this young man, who won a UFC contract through his appearance on Dana White’s Contender Series last year. It’ll be worth seeing if he can get another performance like this on another Fight Night card.

    Hit – Rinya Nakamura

    If we’re talking about explosive finishes, look no further than Rinya Nakamura and the memorable outing he had by taking out Nathan Fletcher in just over a minute.

    Nakamura hurt Fletcher early with a body kick and continued pressuring with sharp combinations. A liver kick dropped Fletcher with a delayed reaction, and Nakamura followed up with ground-and-pound to earn the stoppage.

    This was one of the best kind of performances Nakamura could have had after suffering his first career loss in his last outing. Now through what he’s done in the Octagon so far, including the win over Fletcher, combined with what he did on the Road to UFC series, Nakamura may have established himself as someone to look out for.

    Hit – Neil Magny Climbs The Record Books

    Neil Magny may not be in the mix of contenders at 170 anymore, but that doesn’t mean the man still can’t go. While he’s struggled of late, Magny found success at UFC Vegas 108, pulling off a finish over fellow fight veteran Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos.

    After a competitive first round where both fighters had their moments, Magny turned up the pace in the second. Magny pressured dos Santos relentlessly, wearing him out with grappling and ground strikes before a finish late in round two.

    With 23 wins, Magny has the most victories in UFC welterweight history — and he is tied with Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone, Max Holloway, Charles Oliveira, and Andrei Arlovski for the second-most victories in the Octagon. He also has the most bouts and strikes landed in the history of the UFC’s welterweight division.

    While Neil Magny isn’t going to be challenging for a UFC title, barring some miracle, he has undoubtedly left his mark in the Octagon. We don’t know how many more times we’ll see Magny in the Octagon, but let’s appreciate him no matter how many it is.

    Hit – Karol Rosa

    While there weren’t a lot of ranked talent competing at UFC Vegas 108, one fight of note that featured ranked contenders saw a women’s bantamweight contest between Karol Rosa and Nora Cornolle, with Rosa getting the win.

    After a striking-heavy first round from Cornolle, Rosa took over with takedowns and top control, threatening submissions and landing consistent ground strikes. This gameplan stretched into the third round, giving Rosa more success as she went on to secure the win on the judges’ cards.

    Rosa came into this bout ranked No. 10 at women’s 135. Of note, looking at contenders 6-9, she has lost to Irene Aldana and Ailin Perez; however, she has beaten Yana Santos. She hasn’t faced off with former title challenger Mayra Bueno Silva yet, however. So, if Silva gets past Joselyne Edwards this coming weekend, perhaps book Rosa with her next and see if she’s ready to face off with higher-ranked contenders again? Edwards herself could pose an interesting matchup, too, as Rosa defeated her back in 2021.

    Hit – A Pair Of Fight Of The Year Candidates, Back-To-Back

    It’s crazy exciting when you get a banger of a fight that takes place. Now imagine if you had two — back-to-back. That’s what we got to experience at UFC Vegas 108.

    It all started with Esteeban Ribovics scoring a victory over Elvis Brener. Ribovics had the edge early and poured out with pressure throughout, landing over 150 significant strikes while stuffing all of Brener’s takedown attempts. Brener responded with flashy kicks and big moments, but Ribovics’ pace and volume ultimately won him the nod.

    The last three fights for “El Gringo” now have been this exciting contest with Brener, a split decision loss to Nasrat Haqparast that earned Fight of the Night honors, and the 2024 Fight of the Year with a decision win over Daniel Zellhuber. Do not put Ribovics in the UFC APEX anymore! Let’s get this kid on the undercard of a pay-per-view again, ASAP. Because whatever you think Ribovics’ future has in store, he is proving to be an exciting fighter who knows how to really put on an entertaining show.

    And then right after that, Chris Duncan ended up getting the win over Mateusz Rębecki in another entertaining brawl. Both men traded heavy shots early, with each wearing visible damage by the second round. Duncan found success with body attacks and a near submission in the third, while Rebecki continued throwing bombs until the final bell.

    Duncan has now won three straight and seven of his last eight. His only pay-per-view card appearance was being on the prelims for UFC 278; perhaps it’s time we change that.

    It’s always a fair argument to discuss lack of star power with some of these cards, as well as if the UFC is overproducing cards. But, man, sometimes these Fight Nights really can deliver surprises.

    Hit – Tatsuro Taira Calls His Shot

    Tatsuro Taira wants a shot at the flyweight title, and he emphasized that with a dominant win over Hyun Sung Park in the main event.

    Taira dropped Park with a right hand early and then got into top game and just completely dominated and overwhelmed Park from there. Taira would find Park’s back and sink in a choke during the second round, bringing the fight to an early end with a submission.

    This was a solid rebound from Taira after suffering the first loss of his pro career against Brandon Royval last fall, and now he feels he’s earned the opportunity to challenge for the gold. Joshua Van, of course, is supposed to be next in line for champion Alexandre Pantoja following the awesome run he had earlier this year. With one more win, however, Taira should be next in line (especially if Pantoja beats Van).

  • Jake Paul Tells Conor McGregor to Give It Up In Latest Training Clip Fiasco

    Jake Paul Tells Conor McGregor to Give It Up In Latest Training Clip Fiasco

    Jake Paul is tired of seeing Conor McGregor train.

    Despite dealing with a slew of legal issues outside of the Octagon, the Irish megastar is insistent that his “greatest comeback in combat sports history” is still coming. In reality, it’s been more than four years since McGregor has strapped on the four-ounce gloves, and few are buying that his recent spree of training clips on social media suggests otherwise.

    McGregor posted yet another video of himself shadowboxing, which drew the ire of Paul, who suggested that the former two-division titleholder “just give it up” already.

    The last time McGregor fought in the UFC, he suffered a brutal broken leg in the opening round of his trilogy fight with recently retired fan favorite Dustin Poirier. Six months earlier, McGregor suffered the first knockout loss of his MMA career against ‘The Diamond’ at UFC 257. Since 2017, McGregor has gone 1-4, including a 10th-round TKO defeat at the hands of boxing icon Floyd Mayweather.

    McGregor’s only win in the last eight years came against Donald ‘Cowboy’ Cerrone in January, 2020 — two months before the COVID-19 pandemic shut the world down.

    Conor McGregor refuses to give up on his UFC return or his presidential aspirations

    Despite the lack of activity inside the Octagon, McGregor has regularly dominated headlines, though not always for the right reasons. Recently, he lost an appeal after being held liable for the December 2018 rape of Nikita Hand. Now, Hand has filed a fresh lawsuit accusing him and two others of “malicious abuse” of the court process during his failed appeal.

    Still, that hasn’t stopped McGregor from lobbying for a spot on the UFC’s highly anticipated Fight Night at the White House next year. He also launched a petition to land on Ireland’s presidential ballot without nominations from other politicians.

    “I, Conor McGregor hereby declare my intention to seek the esteemed office of President of Ireland,” the UFC star said on Monday. “The current constitutional framework however presents a significant barrier to democratic participation.”

    In order to be considered a presidential candidate in Ireland, McGregor must have nominations from 20 members of the Oireachtas or four county councils — something he quickly recognized as an impossible task after a slew of politicians in his home country spoke out against his intent to run for office.

    “This system, while intended to ensure a degree of political influence among candidates, inadvertently restricts the direct voice of the Irish electorate,” McGregor added.

    “In light of this, I propose a petition advocating for a modification of the nomination process to allow my name be included on the ballot. I contend that the citizens of Ireland, both at home and abroad, should have the unhindered right to determine the candidates who appear on the presidential ballot.”

  • Sean O’Malley reveals he wanted short notice Cory Sandhagen fight

    UFC star Sean O’Malley has revealed that he was recently interested in pursuing a short notice fight against Cory Sandhagen.

    As we know, Sean O’Malley is coming off the back of two losses at the hands of Merab Dvalishvili. At this point, it certainly seems as if it’s going to take a lot for ‘Suga’ to work his way back to a title shot. With that being said, he has a lot of different directions he can go down – and he’s certainly talented enough to cause a lot of other bantamweights problems.

    Now, we know that Cory Sandhagen will be the one to get a crack at Merab Dvalishvili in what should be a fantastic title showdown. As for Sean O’Malley, we’ll have to wait and see what kind of contender fight he takes on next.

    In a recent podcast appearance, Sean O’Malley revealed that he was suggesting a short notice bout between himself and Cory Sandhagen recently.

    Sean O’Malley wanted Cory Sandhagen fight

    “I was actually trying to fight Cory when the co-main event fell out for that Max (Holloway) and Dustin (Poirier) fight,” O’Malley said on the “Overdogs Podcast.” “I threw my name out there to UFC. I was like: Three weeks, me vs. Cory would be sweet. But it didn’t really make sense for the UFC. Cory vs. Merab was the next fight to make. But yeah, me vs. Cory is a very interesting fight. That’s one that’s bound to happen – sooner than later.”

    “I think me vs. Cory,” O’Malley said. “Me vs. Petr (Yan) 2, I feel like that would be a banger. Me vs. Cory, me vs. Merab 3? No, I’m just kidding.”

    Quotes via MMA Junkie

  • Alex Pereira Will Beat Magomed Ankalaev in Rematch, UFC Middleweight

    Alex Pereira Will Beat Magomed Ankalaev in Rematch, UFC Middleweight

    UFC middleweight Caio Borralho has predicted that Alex Pereira will get his revenge on Magomed Ankalaev and defeat him in their highly anticipated rematch.

    As we know, Alex Pereira is one of the most popular fighters in all of mixed martial arts. He went on an incredible run at both middleweight and light heavyweight, but his title reign at 205 pounds came to an end recently at the hands of Magomed Ankalaev. While it was a tense and fascinating encounter, Ankalaev certainly appeared to do more than enough to get his hand raised.

    Now, though, fans are getting ready to see Alex Pereira try and get his revenge. It’s going to be easier said than done given what we know about the toughness and heart of Magomed Ankalaev, but in equal measure, ‘Poatan’ can never be ruled out of any fight courtesy of his incredible power and precision.

    In a recent interview, Caio Borralho became the latest fighter to give his thoughts on what will go down when Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev stand across the cage from each other for the second time.

    Caio Borralho backs Alex Pereira to beat Magomed Ankalaev in rematch

    “Alex Pereira is a hard guy to fight because he’s very intelligent, but I think this rematch will be mostly the same. Alex knows he can defend the takedowns, so now he can risk more to bring pressure and find that knockout.”

    It’s anyone’s guess as to which way this one is going to go, but one thing we know for sure is that we’re bound to see fireworks.

  • Paulo Costa is ‘Delusional’ Says Ranked UFC Contender

    Paulo Costa is ‘Delusional’ Says Ranked UFC Contender

    UFC middleweight Caio Borralho has called out Paulo Costa as being ‘delusional’ by suggesting that he wants to be the backup for a UFC middleweight championship fight.

    As we know, Paulo Costa is a pretty interesting chap. He has been known as one of the top contenders in the middleweight division, and also one of the most outlandish. In his most recent outing against Roman Kopylov, though, he was far more measured than usual. He was able to pick up a pretty nice win that reminded the masses of what he’s capable of at 185 pounds.

    Of course, in order to get all the way back to a world title shot, Paulo Costa will have to put in a fair bit more work. The Brazilian sensation certainly has the potential to mix it up with a lot of top guys in the middleweight division, but in equal measure, there are plenty of others who currently sit ahead of him in the pecking order.

    One would argue that the perfect example of that is Caio Borralho. These two men have made their dislike for one another fairly clear in the past but in case it wasn’t obvious enough, he had the following to say about Paulo Costa in a recent interview.

    Caio Borralho goes after Paulo Costa

    “Paulo Costa wanting to be the backup? The backup is just delusional. The guy is coming from four losses in six fights. He didn’t win a fight in like three years.”

    Could this be a fight to make in the future? We’ll have to wait and see.