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  • Valentina Shevchenko’s Soviet-Era Secret: Why the UFC Champion Says “No Water” During Training

    Valentina Shevchenko’s Soviet-Era Secret: Why the UFC Champion Says “No Water” During Training

    Valentina Shevchenko, the UFC’s reigning flyweight queen and a woman with more title defenses than most fighters have Instagram followers, has a training rule that’s left the MMA world parched: no water during exercise. Yes, you read that right – while most athletes are guzzling fluids between rounds, Shevchenko is channeling her inner Soviet scientist and keeping her water bottle firmly capped.

    Valentina Shevchenko Says No Water In Training

    “I don’t drink water during exercise. It comes from Soviet sports science—if you drink during intense exercise, it can disrupt your body’s rhythm. After training, you rehydrate, but during, you want everything working like a clock. Excess is never good, whether it’s water, protein, or caffeine,” she explained, in an interview with Helen Yee, with all the certainty of someone who’s kicked heads from Kyrgyzstan to Las Vegas.

    This isn’t just a quirky personal habit. Valentina Shevchenko’s “no water” policy is a relic of Soviet-era sports science, where the idea was to toughen athletes up and keep their bodies running with mechanical precision. The theory? If you can train under the harshest conditions, parched and focused, then you’ll perform better when it counts, especially when water breaks aren’t guaranteed. Some former Soviet coaches believed that minimizing water intake during training would help athletes adapt to competition scenarios where hydration is limited.

    But here’s where modern science throws a wet towel on the tradition. Leading sports nutritionists, including Jordan Sullivan (a.k.a. “The Fight Dietitian”), have called Shevchenko’s approach “outdated.” According to Sullivan, depriving athletes of water during training doesn’t build toughness it just makes them train worse.

    Medical experts also warn that dehydration during exercise can impair performance, increase fatigue, and even pose serious health risks like heat exhaustion. Still, Shevchenko isn’t budging. She’s doubled down on her policy, even imposing it on her team during “The Ultimate Fighter” season 32, insisting that it’s about cultivating a champion’s mindset and keeping the body “like a clock.”

    Critics may scoff, but it’s hard to argue with her results. And what results they are. She’s a two-time UFC women’s flyweight champion, boasting several successful title defenses in her first reign. Her resume reads like a who’s who of women’s MMA: victories over Joanna Jędrzejczyk, Jessica Andrade, Holly Holm, and Lauren Murphy, among others.

    Is Shevchenko’s no-water rule a secret weapon or just a stubborn throwback? The science says hydrate, but “Bullet” Shevchenko says stay thirsty.

  • UFC 316: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2 Full Weigh-In Results

    UFC 316: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2 Full Weigh-In Results

    We are just one day away from UFC 316, and we’ve got the official weigh-in results for you here at MMANews.

    Just as they have the last two years, the UFC brings its early June pay-per-view offering to the city of Newark, New Jersey. The world’s fighting leader will provide the Prudential Center with two title fights and a whole lot of action to go down.

    The main event will see Sean O’Malley look to re-capture the UFC bantamweight championship against the man who took it from him, Merab Dvalishvili. Dvalishvili took a clear unanimous decision, troubling O’Malley with his grappling expertise, when the two first faced off at Noche UFC 2 (UFC 306) in September. While O’Malley has not fought since the loss, Dvalishvili successfully defended the title against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 in January.

    The co-main event will also have 135-pound gold on the line, as women’s champion Julianna Pena defends the title against Kayla Harrison. Pena became a two-time champion at UFC 307 in October, scoring a controversial decision win over Raquel Pennington to reclaim the gold. Pena’s first run with the belt came when she upset Amanda Nunes in December 2021 at UFC 269 — only to lose it back to her at UFC 277. Harrison, a former two-time PFL champion, has defeated Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira since jumping ship to the UFC.

    The main card will also see Kelvin Gastelum taking on Joe Pyfer, the UFC debut of former Bellator champion Patchy Mix against Mario Bautista and Vicente Luque battling Kevin Holland.

    UFC 316 Weigh-In Video, Results

    UFC 316 takes place Saturday, June 7 at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. The main card begins at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT, with the preliminary card starting at 6 PM ET/3 PM PT.

    See above for a replay of the UFC 316 Weigh-In Show, and check out the full results below.

    Main Card:

    • Bantamweight Championship: Merab Dvalishvili (134) vs. Sean O’Malley (135)
    • Women’s Bantamweight Championship: Julianna Pena (135) vs. Kayla Harrison (135)
    • Middleweight: Kelvin Gastelum (185) vs. Joe Pyfer (185)
    • Bantamweight: Mario Bautista (135) vs. Patchy Mix (135)
    • Welterweight: Vicente Luque (170) vs. Kevin Holland (170)

    Preliminary Card:

    • Flyweight: Bruno Gustavo da Silva (125) vs. Joshua Van (125)
    • Light Heavyweight: Azamat Murzakanov (205) vs. Brendson Ribeiro (205)
    • Heavyweight: Serghei Spivac (251) vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta (265)
    • Welterweight: Khaos Williams (170) vs. Andreas Gustafsson (170)

    Early Preliminary Card:

    • Women’s Flyweight: Ariane da Silva (132*) vs. Wang Cong (125)
    • Featherweight: Jeka Saragih (145) vs. Yoo Joo-sang (145)
    • Lightweight: Quillan Salkilld (156) vs. Yanal Ashmouz (155)
    • Lightweight: MarQuel Mederos (155) vs. Mark Choinski (155)
  • “Not My Fault!”: Jon Jones Shrugs Off Responsibility in Tom Aspinall Heavyweight Drama “Nothing to do with me”

    “Not My Fault!”: Jon Jones Shrugs Off Responsibility in Tom Aspinall Heavyweight Drama “Nothing to do with me”

    The Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall heavyweight saga has become the UFC’s longest-running “will they, won’t they” drama, and Jon Jones is doing his best to make sure nobody blames him for the mess. In a series of recent social media posts, Jones has sidestepped any responsibility for the fight falling through, instead pointing fingers at the UFC, the division, and, of course, everyone but himself.

    Jones Plays the Blame Game While UFC Heavyweight Division Hits Pause

    Let’s recap: Tom Aspinall, the interim heavyweight champ, has been waiting for his shot at Jon Jones since knocking out Sergei Pavlovich in late 2023. Jones, meanwhile, spent a year on the sidelines with injury, returned to beat Stipe Miocic, and then promptly vanished from the conversation about unifying the belts. While fans and UFC brass have pushed for a Jones-Aspinall showdown, Jones has been busy filming reality TV, collecting presidential memorabilia, and, apparently, counting the money he claims to make by “doing nothing at all… and holding the position.”

    Over 76,000 Fans Sign Petition For UFC To Strip Jon Jones of Heavyweight Title
    Image: @UFCEspanol/X

    On social media, Jon Jones has been quick to downplay Aspinall’s threat. In one tweet, he wrote, “He is no threat to me whatsoever, he should start with just trying to be the best heavyweight of all time, that goal would be plenty. My career is on a completely different planet if we’re being honest.” He’s also taken shots at Aspinall’s record, claiming, “I’ve seen Tom get tapped out twice now by two different people. Time will show. Here today gone tomorrow.”

    Jon Jones Shrugs Off ‘Ducking’ Aspinall Accusations
    Image: UFC.com

    As for the fight itself, Jon Jones insists he’s not the roadblock. “It sucks to see the rest of the division get slowed down like this, but that has nothing to do with me. I don’t pull the strings,” he posted, painting himself as a humble company man who just happens to be sitting on the title while the rest of the division twiddles their thumbs. He’s even suggested he hasn’t trained since his last fight and that the UFC is happy to keep him as champion, not Tom. Meanwhile, Aspinall has been left in limbo, defending his interim belt just to stay active, a rarity in UFC history.

    The UFC, for its part, claims negotiations are ongoing, with Dana White promising that the fight will happen – eventually. But with Jones hinting at retirement and Aspinall openly questioning whether the champ will ever return, fans are left wondering if this is all just a drawn-out exit strategy for Jones. In short, Jones is playing the blame game with a straight face, dodging responsibility for the stalled division while taking potshots at Aspinall’s credentials.

  • Watch UFC 316 Press Conference Video Featuring Dvalishvili, O’Malley, Pena, Harrison, And More

    Watch UFC 316 Press Conference Video Featuring Dvalishvili, O’Malley, Pena, Harrison, And More

    We’re in the midst of UFC 316 fight week, and with the build reaching it’s boiling point, it’s time to make things potentially boil further with a good ol’ fashion question-and-answer session.

    The sixth UFC pay-per-view event of the year goes down from the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, on Saturday, June 7. UFC 316 will be headlined by a UFC bantamweight championship rematch featuring champion Merab Dvalishvili and former champion Sean O’Malley.

    The co-main event will also see gold on the line, as Julianna Pena makes her first defense in her second reign as women’s 135-pound UFC champion, taking on former two-time PFL champion and Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison.

    The main card of UFC 316 will also feature middleweight action from Kelvin Gastelum and Joe Pyfer, the UFC debut of former Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix (who takes on Mario Bautista) and a welterweight clash between Vicente Luque and Kelvin Gastelum.

    As per tradition, the UFC pay-per-view main card participants will be featured in a press conference during fight week. This is the opportunity for fighters to answer questions from media and fans, as well as potentially lay in some smack talk on their opponents.

    Check out a live stream of the presser below via the UFC’s official YouTube channel, commencing at 5 PM ET.

  • Merab Dvalishvili’s Fearless Mindset: “Every Fight Is a Risk, But I Just Want to Fight”

    Merab Dvalishvili’s Fearless Mindset: “Every Fight Is a Risk, But I Just Want to Fight”

    Merab Dvalishvili has a natural passion for fighting that has allowed him to carve out a path where many see him as the best bantamweight fighter in MMA history. Heading into his sophomore title defense this weekend as he prepares to run things back in a rematch with Sean O’Malley, Dvalishvili radiated gratitude for what he is able to do for a living. The reigning kingpin of 135 pounds addressed several subjects to on-site media members at the fight week media day before the two warriors get locked into the octagon for the pay-per-view headliner at UFC 316 which is set to transpire in Newark.

    When addressing his passion for the career path of being a high level combat sports athlete while offering insights into how he sees this seuqle clash with ‘Suga’ playing out, Merab Dvalishvili said.

    “I love training and fighting. Everybody knows I’m always training—even on vacation, I’m still running and doing my best. Every time I have a fight in the UFC, I’m blessed. I’m happy to be busy and have the best job in the world. After this fight, I want to test a new weight-cutting style to make it even easier for me to fight often.”

    “Every fight is a risk, and life is a risk. If I lose and don’t get an immediate rematch, I don’t care—I just want to fight and be busy. I believe I can beat Sean again, and I’m looking to do it in even more dominant fashion. How dangerous he is excites me more.”

    Merab Dvalishvili Comments On Ex-Teammate Aiding Umar Nurmagomedov Ahead Of UFC 311
    Image: @merab.dvalishvili/Instagram

    Merab Dvalishvili contemplates next opponent post-UFC 316

    Merab Dvalishvili seems locked into the task at hand this weekend as he looks to garner a second win over the former UFC bantamweight champion in Sean O’Malley but he is not obtuse to who the likely next title challenger will be if Dvalishvili emerges victorious on Saturday. The Georgian fighter touted Cory Sandhagen as the likely next title challenger and praised the talented bantamweight fighter for having a skillset that should lead to an exciting future contest for the fans. Ultimately though, Dvalishvili stated that it is the UFC’s call and as the champion, he will fight whoever the promotion decides is next up.

  • Breaking: Stream Every PFL International League Fight Free with New Official App

    Breaking: Stream Every PFL International League Fight Free with New Official App

    The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has launched a new direct-to-consumer app that allows U.S. fans to stream all PFL International League events live and free. The app, available on Apple and Google Play stores, serves as the exclusive U.S. home for live broadcasts of PFL Europe, PFL MENA, and PFL Africa events. The platform also offers access to PFL fights, fighter information, analytics, fan rewards, games, and behind-the-scenes content.

    PFL App

    Upcoming live events accessible through the app include PFL MENA on July 4 in Riyadh, PFL Europe on July 5 in Brussels, and PFL Africa on July 19 in Cape Town. The app’s features include live fight streaming, schedules, fighter profiles, fan engagement tools, and insider content.

    PFL CEO Peter Murray stated that the app is part of the league’s strategy to provide a centralized experience for fans and to make international events directly accessible in the U.S. Rick Allen, CEO of ViewLift, the platform’s technology partner, highlighted the ongoing partnership and the new opportunities for fan interaction and access to live content.

    The app is currently available for download on mobile devices and via the web, with plans to expand to OTT devices such as Apple TV, Roku, and Amazon Fire TV later in the year.

    Download now at the Apple or Google Play Storeto begin your PFL free all access pass.  

    “We’re putting the power directly in the hands of MMA fans,” explained PFL CEO Peter Murray. “For the first time ever, fans in the U.S. can watch PFL MENA, PFL Europe, PFL Africa, and PFL Pacific live and free, all in one place. The PFL App is a major investment in our global league strategy and in delivering a deeper, more connected and centralized experience for our fans.”

    “PFL has focused on its fans since its launch,” said Rick Allen, ViewLift’s CEO. “We are proud to continue our 7-year alliance with the League, and deliver an entirely new experience for those fans: behind-the-scenes access, new ways to expand your fight knowledge and test yourself against others, and … for the very first time … direct US access to live international fights and recaps. Join us in the SmartCage!”

  • Olympic Gold vs. UFC Gold? Kayla Harrison Says, “We’re Going to Find Out”

    Olympic Gold vs. UFC Gold? Kayla Harrison Says, “We’re Going to Find Out”

    Kayla Harrison knows a thing or two about gold. The American judoka made history by claiming two Olympic gold medals, first in London 2012 and again in Rio 2016, becoming the first American to ever top the podium in Olympic judo.

    Olympic Gold vs. UFC Gold? Kayla Harrison Answers

    Not content with just conquering the tatami, Harrison made a seamless leap into mixed martial arts, where she quickly collected two PFL titles in 2018 and 2019, remaining undefeated and earning the distinction of being the PFL’s first female champion. She later jumped to the UFC.

    Kayla Harrison responds to PFL mocking her record
    Image: @kaylaharrisonofficial/Instagram

    Now, the stage is set for Kayla Harrison’s next mountain: a shot at UFC gold. This Saturday night at UFC 316, against Julianna Pena, she steps into the Octagon for her first UFC title fight, a moment that could see her add another accolade to her already weighty trophy case. This is Harrison’s chance to prove that her determination can translate just as well in the UFC as they did on the Olympic mats and in the PFL cage.

    Kayla Harrison on falling for judo at six: ‘I believe in love at first sight, that was it for me’

    Kayla Harrison herself isn’t shy about the significance. “Can winning a belt compare to an Olympic gold?” She was asked at the UFC 316 pre-fight press conference.”We’re going to find out on Saturday night,” she said with a wry grin. “I’m sure it’s going to feel very similar … It’s a testament, I think, to my character, my grit, my determination. I’m very happy with my career—I’ve climbed a lot of mountains, I’ve done more than most will ever do, and I’m very satisfied with it. But this belt is for me.”

    UFC 316

    Kayla Harrison’s UFC tenure has been short but impactful, and now she stands on the brink of making history once again. After signing with the UFC in early 2024, Harrison wasted no time making her mark, debuting in the bantamweight division with a statement win over former champion Holly Holm by submission at UFC 300. She followed that up with a dominant unanimous decision victory against Ketlen Vieira, quickly climbing to the No. 2 spot in the women’s 135-pound rankings.

    With an 18-1 professional record and a reputation for overwhelming her opponents with both judo and striking, Harrison now faces reigning bantamweight champion Julianna Peña in the co-main event at UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey. If Harrison prevails, she will become just the second athlete ever – after Henry Cejudo – to win both Olympic gold and a UFC title, joining an elite club.

    UFC Champ Julianna Peña Sees Submission Win Over Olympian Kayla Harrison: “I'll Frustrate Her Until She Breaks”
  • UFC Reportedly Agrees to $12M Mega-Fight Guarantee with Jon Jones ‘Biggest Check in UFC History’

    UFC Reportedly Agrees to $12M Mega-Fight Guarantee with Jon Jones ‘Biggest Check in UFC History’

    The UFC heavyweight division has become the stage for the sport’s most expensive game of chicken, as Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall circle each other with the promise of a $12 million mega-fight – the biggest guaranteed check in UFC history – dangling in the balance. The only thing heavier than the potential payday is the cloud of uncertainty hanging over whether this blockbuster will ever actually happen.

    UFC Negotiation Stalemate: Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall

    Negotiations for this unification bout have dragged on since last November, with both fighters and the UFC locked in a will-they-won’t-they saga that’s left fans, contenders, and even Dana White himself in a holding pattern. Tom Aspinall, the British interim champ with a penchant for first-round finishes, has spent the past year defending his belt and insisting that Jon Jones is, for all practical purposes, retired “The guy’s living his best life,” Aspinall said this week, “We know Jon’s a religious man, so I want to say: God bless him moving forward with what he does in his life and career.”

    Chael Sonnen’s Scoop: Inside the Alleged Mega-Deal

    But not everyone is buying the retirement talk. Enter Chael Sonnen, former Jones rival, who claims to have the inside scoop: “There’s a story going around that is largely believed… Jon Jones just wants that guarantee. He doesn’t have a past of selling huge pay-per-views, so when they tell him how great this is going to be, he’s looking around going, ‘Hey, I’ve never had great before. I want my money up front.’ What is believed in our industry is whatever that number was – and I believe that to be $12 million, in case you’re interested, got my own sources – but the UFC said, ‘Okay.’”

    “And the problem with giving a guy that big of a quote… Jon’s check at the end of the night will be the biggest check he’s ever got. It’ll be the biggest check anyone has ever got from the UFC.“

    According to Sonnen, this would see Jones out-earn the likes of Brock Lesnar, Georges St-Pierre, and Ronda Rousey, whose paydays now look positively modest by comparison. The UFC, for its part, seems ready to write the check. Reports suggest that the promotion has agreed to Jones’ terms, meaning the only thing left is for “Bones” to sign on the dotted line.

    “If Jon wants the fight to happen today… it could be a done deal today. It’s up to him, and it’s always been up to him,” MMA journalist Ariel Helwani recently said, echoing the industry consensus that the ball is firmly in Jones’ court.Yet, for all the money and hype, the fight itself remains stuck in neutral. Sonnen points out the risk for the UFC: if Jones gets $12 million for Aspinall, he’ll want the same for every fight after, even if the next opponent is less marquee than the British knockout artist. And with heavyweight options thin, the UFC is left with a dilemma – pay up now, or risk the division slipping further into limbo.

    Aspinall Waits, Fans Agitate

    Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall waits, the division stalls, and fans grow restless. The petition to strip Jones of his title has nearly 180,000 signatures. As Sonnen quipped, “This fight is getting smaller, not bigger.” The anticipation that once made this matchup feel inevitable now feels more like a tease, with each passing week eroding the excitement.

    Jon Jones
    Image: Jon Jones on Instagram

    Will the UFC’s biggest-ever check finally tempt Jon Jones back into the Octagon for the showdown everyone wants? Or will this be remembered as the fight that never was, a $12 million question mark hanging over the heavyweight crown? For now, all eyes are on Jon Jones.

    Jon Jones
    Image: Jeff Bottari/UFC/Zuffa LLC
  • UFC 316: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley Staff Predictions

    UFC 316: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley Staff Predictions

    For the third year in a row, the UFC brings its early June pay-per-view offering to the city of Newark, New Jersey, as the UFC goes down at the Prudential Center. Get yourself ready and in the know with another edition of MMA News staff fight predictions.

    The event will be available exclusively on ESPN+ pay-per-view on Saturday, June 7. The main card will begin at its usual 10pm ET start time, with preliminary card action kicking off at 6pm ET.

    The main event of the evening will be a second clash over the UFC bantamweight championship between Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley. The two first met at Noche UFC 2 — UFC 306 — this past September, with Dvalishvili taking a strong decision win to claim the gold and become just the second man to defeat O’Malley. Dvalishvili retained the title in comeback decision fashion against Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 this past January, while this marks O’Malley’s first fight since the title loss.

    The co-main event of the evening will also see a title be decided, as Julianna Pena defends the UFC women’s bantamweight championship against former Olympic gold medalist and two-time PFL champion Kayla Harrison. This marks Pena’s first defense of the title since her controversial decision victory over Raquel Pennington at UFC 307 in October to win the title. On the same card, Harrison, in her second fight since jumping ship to the UFC, scored a dominant decision over Ketlen Vieira to earn the title shot.

    The UFC 316 main card will also see middleweight action featuring Kelvin Gastelum and Joe Pyfer, Mario Bautista taking on the debuting former Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix and a welterweight encounter featuring Vicente Luque and Kevin Holland.

    UFC 316: MMA News Staff Predictions

    With UFC 316 just a couple of short days away,  Ryan Jarrell, Pranav Pandey, and myself (Thomas Albano) have provided our picks for the fights that make up the main card.

    Below, you can check out the current leaderboard through five cards in 2025.

    1. Pranav Pandey (13-9)
      Thomas Albano (12-10)
    2. Ryan Jarrell (11-11)

    And now, let’s take a look at everyone’s picks for UFC 316!

    Welterweight: Vicente Luque vs. Kevin Holland

    Images: UFC.com

    Pranav Pandey: Honestly, I’m not quite sure where Holland stands these days. His recent form has been all over the place, especially when compared to a battle-tested veteran like Luque. Sure, Holland got back in the win column with his victory over Gunnar Nelson, but truth be told, that fight felt awkward and lacked real rhythm. Meanwhile, “The Silent Assassin” looked sharp in his last outing. That said, facing someone like Holland presents a unique challenge. “Trailblazer” holds a significant reach advantage, and in my opinion, he’s going to use every inch of it to keep Luque’s grappling threat at bay. If Holland stays composed and strategic, this could turn into a frustrating night for Luque. (Prediction: Holland)

    Thomas Albano: This is the fight on the main card that I’m having the most trouble picking. Both Vicente Luque and Kevin Holland can flash power. Both Luque and Holland have strong grappling abilities. Both men have had a mix bag of results in their most recent string of match-ups – and both have had struggles against upper-level competition.

    This is one of those fights that could fall either way. I and others in the MMA media space probably give the edge in power to Holland versus the edge in grappling to Luque. While Holland has problems with consistency, there should be concern about Luque’s health given his losses to Joaquin Buckley and Geoff Neal. I’m not the most confident in this pick, and I wouldn’t put any money on this fight. But if I had to pick a side, while my initial gut reaction was to go with Luque, I’m going to go with the “Trailblazer” here. (Prediction: Holland)

    Ryan Jarrell: This is a tricky fight for me to pick because I think Luque at his best would beat Holland. Even with his most recent victory over Themba Gorimbo, I am not sure the ‘Silent Assassin’ is still in his prime. Kevin Holland is always a wild card to me and it wouldn’t surprise me to see him go in and look like the absolute best version of himself. It also wouldn’t surprise me to see him get finished like he did against RDR. This is a coin flip to me, and I’ll side with Luque because I would imagine he restored his confidence after his recent quick victory over a rising star. (Prediction: Luque)

    Consensus: 2-1 Holland

    Bantamweight: Mario Bautista vs. Patchy Mix

    Images: UFC.com, PFL

    Pranav Pandey: It’s an intriguing stylistic matchup. Bautista is a high-pressure, in-your-face fighter who relentlessly pushes the pace and blends his striking with slick level changes. He knows his strengths and leans into them with purpose. On the other hand, Mix is stepping into the Octagon for his promotional debut. While I haven’t seen a ton of him firsthand, what I do know is that “No Love” is a submission savant. I’m more than ready to hop aboard the hype train and see if he can put the clamps on someone as durable and aggressive as Bautista. (Prediction: Mix)

    Thomas Albano: I’m excited to see Patchy Mix back in action, now competing in the UFC. During his time as Bellator champion, I always viewed him as a face of the promotion – especially during the time period he was there after PFL purchased Bellator (tumultuous as it was). He legitimately up until his official signing weeks ago, at least in my mind, was one of the top talents not signed to the UFC. And he’ll already have the opportunity to make a big statement in this one.

    Mario Bautista is not going to be a pushover. Bautista has a pressure-heavy, striking-heavy style, bringing forth plenty of power and momentum into his fights against opponents who may not be ready. And considering his wins over Ricky Simon and Jose Aldo (controversial as the latter was) last year, he’s ready to face a competitor like Mix. If Mix can take advantage and bring the fight to his world – to the mat – and negate Bautista’ striking game as much as possible, he can pick up the win here. And I believe that very well can happen come Saturday. (Prediction: Mix)

    Ryan Jarrell: I really like what I’ve been seeing out of Mario Bautista during his win streak. Forget all the haters that jumped all over him for his game-plan against Jose Aldo. At the end of the day he got the job done and had his hand raised. I do think Patchy Mix will be a force in the UFC and someone to contend with at the top of the division for quite some time. But there is something to be said about the octagon jitters and historically speaking, debuting fighters have not faired well when competing with the elite regardless of the division. Give me Bautista to edge out a tough fought decision and continue his march up the top 15. (Prediction: Bautista)

    Consensus: 2-1 Mix

    Middleweight: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Joe Pyfer

    Images: UFC.com

    Pranav Pandey: In my opinion, Gastelum still has that bulldozer-like durability he’s always been known for, but his inconsistency over the years makes me hesitant, especially against a power-punching sniper like Pyfer, who holds a clear reach advantage. I don’t think this will be an easy outing for either man, but if “Bodybagz” can manage the range and dish out damage from the outside, I could easily see him picking apart Gastelum, whose tendency to absorb shots has often put him in dangerous waters. (Prediction: Pyfer)

    Thomas Albano: I really don’t want to come off as I’m quickly writing Gastelum off. After all, he has victories in two of his last three fights (including his most recent one), and he’s had some noteworthy performances regardless of result. But given Joe Pyfer’s momentum, and Gastelum losing a lot more than he’s been winning over the last several years, this just feels like a situation where an older fighter is being brought in as a lamb to slaughter for the younger rising star. I’ll respect Gastelum for trying to fight fire with fire, but he’ll need to mix up his grappling skills with it to have a shot in this one. And even then, I’m not sure if his pressure will be enough against the precision, speed, and power behind Joe Pyfer’s hands. (Prediction: Pyfer)

    Ryan Jarrell: I think this fight is a case where one guy is coming into his fighting prime and the other guy is on the way out. If Gastelum can recreate his younger self he can definitely make this a tough one for Pyfer to win. But I just don’t see him having enough to deal with the power and physicality of his younger foe. I respect Gastelum so I will say he toughs it out and doesn’t get finished, but I expect him to lose rather handily on the judges score cards. (Prediction: Pyfer)

    Consensus: 3-0 Pyfer

    UFC Women’s Bantamweight Title: Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison

    Images: UFC.com

    Pranav Pandey: This fight feels genuinely tough for me to call. Peña will undoubtedly come into this matchup riding the wave of confidence that comes with being the reigning champion, and I get the sense she’s a bit more polished across the board when it comes to all-around MMA skills. But Peña also has a weak spot in her takedown defense—an area where former Olympian Kayla Harrison is poised to exploit her advantage. Still, I believe it’s never that straightforward with the gritty “Venezuelan Vixen,” who fights with relentless heart and refuses to back down.

    On the other hand, Harrison showed some vulnerability in striking during her last bout against Ketlen Vieira, yet she weathered the storm with composure. If she keeps her grappling sharp and capitalizes on Peña’s takedown defense, I believe Harrison will drag the champ into deep waters where she thrives and ultimately emerge victorious. (Prediction: Harrison)

    Thomas Albano: I have been following Kayla Harrison since she won her second Olympic gold medal in 2016 – and then transitioned into the sport. She dominated the PFL scene, becoming a two-time champion and fell just short of three titles (and Larissa Pacheco is not a loss to be ashamed of). Of course, there were questions on how she’d handle the step up in competition at the UFC level – and I think it’s safe to say, after her finish of Holly Holm and her dominant decision over Ketlen Vieira, Harrison was more than delivered.

    It was cool to see Julianna Pena re-capture the UFC women’s bantamweight title at UFC 307, but not everyone was happy with her receiving the nod over Raquel Pennington. I was uncertain, too. And while Pena has shown some power, I don’t think she’s going to be any match for Harrison’s judo expertise and grappling abilities. I’m also curious how the size battle will go here (Pena has a three-inch reach advantage, but Harrison has the height edge and has competed in a heavier weight class previously). Like the oddsmakers feel, I expect to hear “and new” in the co-main event of the evening. (Prediction: Harrison)

    Ryan Jarrell: According to the odds, we should have a new champion when this title fight concludes. I am very interested to see how the challengers cardio holds up if Pena is able to hang in there and deliver some punishment of her own in the early rounds. At the end of the day, I do expect Kayla’s wrestling and control time to be the difference in this one. I’m not terribly confident she will finish the champion, but I do expect her to win via decision because of her elite grappling skill set. (Prediction: Harrison)

    Consensus: 3-0 Harrison

    UFC Bantamweight Title: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley

    Images: UFC.com

    Pranav Pandey: Here we go again with the rematch. In their first meeting, Dvalishvili put on a masterclass in pressure fighting. It honestly felt like he had O’Malley tactically trapped from the opening bell. The Georgian’s breakneck pace and chain-wrestling blitz were overwhelming, and “Suga” looked like he had no escape route. However, I think this time around, things could look drastically different. O’Malley has likely overhauled his strategy. What has me particularly curious is the influence of Demetrious Johnson in his camp. I’m genuinely eager to see what kind of tools “Mighty Mouse” might’ve passed down, because if O’Malley shows up as a more complete, defensively sound version of himself, we might just get a tactical chess match instead of a one-sided beating.

    But “The Machine” has finely tuned his blend of striking and grappling into a weapon that has repeatedly proven his dominance. I struggle to imagine him finding himself in any real trouble during this fight. Sure, “Suga” carries the knockout threat; there’s no denying that. However, I firmly believe Dvalishvili’s ironclad chin and unyielding toughness will see him through any storm. I fully expect him to weather every challenge effortlessly and sail smoothly to yet another dominant win. (Prediction: Dvalishvili)

    Thomas Albano: Merab Dvalishvili has been someone who has seemed unstoppable in the division. His relentless pressure and his wrestling expertise have led him to plenty of success before, and it led to him fulfilling his potential and becoming champion the first time he met Sean O’Malley in the Octagon. I’m one of those who isn’t a fan that O’Malley is receiving a rematch in his first fight since while Dvalishvili already defended the belt four months ago.

    On one hand, you could look at that circumstance and say O’Malley’s time off to develop and better prepare, combined with Dvalishvili needing to come from behind to retain against Umar Nurmagomedov may point to O’Malley recapturing the title. After all, Aljamain Sterling only defended the title three months before he faced O’Malley and lost. That said, O’Malley’s grappling hasn’t been his greatest asset, and I need to see true improvement out of him – and we haven’t had that opportunity yet. And when you manage to put on the performance Dvalishvili did against someone in the great Nurmagomedov family, my confidence is fully behind “The Machine” in this one. (Prediction: Dvalishvili)

    Ryan Jarrell: After I watched Suga put away Aljamain Sterling, I wondered if anyone could stop the Suga Show at 135 pounds. Enter a machine, who literally never stops. Merab will get hit and O’Malley will have the chances he hopes to clip the Champion and potentially get a finish. But until I see it actually happen, I cannot pick against Merab. His output picks up as the fight goes deeper and his opponents have no chance but to wilt to his pressure. I don’t think O’Malley will have the answers in this rematch and I expect a very similar visual to the first go round. (Prediction: Dvalishvili)

    Consensus: 3-0 Dvalishvili

    That’ll do it for our UFC 316 staff picks! What do you think? Do your predictions look similar? Let us know in the comments section!

    Also, you can check out the full UFC 316 card below.

    Main Card:

    • Bantamweight Championship: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley
    • Women’s Bantamweight Championship: Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison
    • Middleweight: Kelvin Gastelum vs. Joe Pyfer
    • Bantamweight: Mario Bautista vs. Patchy Mix
    • Welterweight: Vicente Luque vs. Kevin Holland

    Preliminary Card:

    • Flyweight: Bruno Gustavo da Silva vs. Joshua Van
    • Light Heavyweight: Azamat Murzakanov vs. Brendson Ribeiro
    • Heavyweight: Serghei Spivac vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta
    • Welterweight: Khaos Williams vs. Andreas Gustafsson

    Early Preliminary Card:

    • Women’s Flyweight: Ariane da Silva vs. Wang Cong
    • Featherweight: Jeka Saragih vs. Yoo Joo-sang
    • Lightweight: Quillan Salkilld vs. Yanal Ashmouz
    • Lightweight: MarQuel Mederos vs. Mark Choinski
  • Donald Sanchez on the Variables of Pressure and Altitude in Hometown BKFC Title Bid

    Donald Sanchez on the Variables of Pressure and Altitude in Hometown BKFC Title Bid

    Donald Sanchez is back in his home town ready to sell the joint out as he collides with the number one pound for pound ranked BKFC fighter. Sanchez will look to unseat David Mundell from his middleweight championship throne in the headliner of BKFC 75 on June 6th. When the title challenger was asked on Bare Knuckle Bowker about how much it adds to the fight being on home soil, Sanchez said

    “It’s actually pretty stressful fighting in your hometown. People don’t realize that and Dave [Feldman] keeps saying that I only want to fight here. I fight wherever BKFC sends me. So it’s cool. I’ve got tons of support out here. I get the energy from the people but I had to really lock in these last couple weeks and and seclude myself from everybody, you know, last minute ticket buyers and whatnot. So it’s fun. It’s high up here, the altitude, the elevation, and I’m used to it on the daily. So there’s the perks that I get out of this.”

    Donald Sanchez and the variable of high altitude familiarity here

    While we haven’t really seen gas tank issues with David Mundell per se, Sanchez’s familiarity with the heightened elevation of New Mexico can be a notable variable within this particular fight here. As he expounded upon those dynamics, Sanchez quipped,

    “Well we haven’t seen his gas tank because no one’s pressured him. No one’s put him on his feet except maybe like Julian Lane put him on his feet and gave him trouble. But once I’m able to go in there and put the pressure on him and and in the elevation, you know, you’re sucking in less oxygen out here and I really think he’s looking down on that. I don’t think he’s taking it seriously. So we’re about to find out.”

    When asked if he thinks ‘Redneck’ is overlooking the altitude component before preparing to defend his BKFC middleweight belt in the coming days, Donald Sanchez stated.

    “Well he keeps mentioning that. Pushing to our limits and and that’s all it’s about, you know. So huge credit goes to them but I also have a whole team of coaches and they push me daily. I have straight boxing coaches, I have a an older MMA coach, and it takes a good mixture of everything. So I have the right individuals around me pushing me.”

  • Donald Sanchez on Fighting BKFC’s Pound For Pound Number One Fighter For His Belt

    Donald Sanchez on Fighting BKFC’s Pound For Pound Number One Fighter For His Belt

    Donald Sanchez is obviously keen on the idea of winning a world title but it would be a truly great accolade to defeat the number one pound-for-pound fighter in BKFC. Sanchez appeared on Bare Knuckle Bowker ahead of his middleweight title bid against reigning champion David Mundell in the main event of BKFC 75 set for June 6th. When discussing if it was of particular significance to potentially gain a big win over the elite caliber bare knuckle boxer, Sanchez said,

    “Absolutely, you know. That’s cool and everything but that’s why we do this stuff. We want to fight the best. I don’t care about fighting the YouTubers and all that [ __ ]. So I’m here to fight the best and that’s what I want to do. I kept asking for it, asking for it, asking for it. Fighting, fighting, fighting, and finishing the fights and here we go, you know. I get to prove who I am, prove that I’m one of the best, prove that I am the best, and then in action, I get that belt as well. So I get to go fight the number one pound-for-pound guy in the world for his belt. So I mean what more can you ask for? That’s badass, you know.”

    Donald Sanchez and the fight IQ he brings to this BKFC 75 title bid

    Donald Sanchez has had this David Mundell fight on his radar for a while but there are no localized approaches he takes to gameplanning for certain fighters and he instead focuses on his personal refinement to be adaptable on fight night. When expounding upon this in greater detail, Sanchez stated,

    “I don’t personalize per fight. I personalize for myself. I get myself better. I have a very high IQ in that ring. So I can adapt to a situation and figure out what I need to do to win fights. So it’s not one specific style. I can go in there and do several different styles and showcase that. As you’ve seen, every single one of my opponents they’ve been a different style.”

    “I don’t know if you look back but that every single one of them is different and I’ve adapted to each and every one of them. So the closest that this style comes up to is my last fight, Harrison Aiken. I think that was a perfect style for me to go and test what I can do against this. I’ve always trained with that type of style we’ll just say. So I think I have the kryptonite for this.”

  • “Don’t Like 10 and 10? Go Work at Target” Sean O’Malley Gets Brutally Honest About UFC Fighter Pay

    “Don’t Like 10 and 10? Go Work at Target” Sean O’Malley Gets Brutally Honest About UFC Fighter Pay

    Sean O’Malley has a message for UFC fighters grumbling about their paychecks: if you’re not happy with “10 and 10,” there’s always a red vest waiting for you at Target. As O’Malley gears up for his blockbuster rematch at UFC 316 this Saturday, the bantamweight star isn’t pulling any punches when it comes to the sport’s most heated debate.

    Sean O’Malley to UFC Fighters: Don’t Like the Pay? Try Target

    Former UFC champ ‘Suga’ Sean O’Malley doubled down on his blunt philosophy regarding fighters who are just starting out in the UFC. In an interview with Demetrious Johnson, he explained:

    “People complain, ‘I’m only getting paid 10 and 10.’ But in reality, who’s there to see you fight? Your mom, your dad, your sister, a couple buddies, no one’s paying to watch you on TV. You have to build your name up, bring value to the promotion. If you don’t want to make $50,000 a fight, go work at Target. No one’s forcing you to fight.”

    UFC Fighter Pay Debate Heats Up

    The US-born O’Malley’s comments land at a time when fighter pay remains a hot-button issue in MMA. Critics say the UFC’s entry-level deals, $10,000 to show, $10,000 to win, are too low for the risks fighters take. The UFC, meanwhile, contends that the real money comes to those who can draw a crowd, sell pay-per-views, and become stars. Sean O’Malley, who started on those same “10 and 10” contracts, says the key is self-promotion and performance.

    Merab Dvalishvili proposes a rematch with Sean O'Malley
    Image: @ufc/X

    “I understood early that you have to bring value to the UFC and build your own brand,” he said, pointing to his own rise through highlight-reel knockouts and a knack for marketing himself, rainbow hair included.

    He’s quick to credit the UFC for his platform: “I still make – probably about the same amount of money outside the UFC as I do inside the UFC right now. It’s wild to think about. But I know the reason I’m making that much is because of the UFC. I wouldn’t have this platform or following without them. It’s very mutual: I’ve done a lot for the UFC, but they don’t need me. I need the UFC to get to where I want to go. I’m very grateful for the platform they give me.”

    Building a Brand, Building a Paycheck

    ‘Suga’ Sean O’Malley’s hustle started long before the bright lights. “Even when I was 16, I was hustling – selling tickets, merch, getting sponsors. Tim Welch told me to get an Instagram when I moved down here. I always wanted to be different. The rainbow hair? That was 6ix9ine-inspired. The first time I did my hair was the Eddie Wineland fight, hair plus that knockout was a recipe for success. Every fight, a new hair. But it always comes down to performance. People want to see knockouts.”

    UFC 316

    Now, he returns to the Octagon at UFC 316 in Newark, New Jersey, looking to reclaim the bantamweight title from Merab Dvalishvili, the man who took it from him last September. Sean O’Malley has left no stone unturned in his preparation, even making lifestyle changes like swearing off podcasting, video games, and, reportedly, taking a vow of celibacy in the lead-up. He’s hoping to erase any doubts from their first meeting, when he fought through injury.

    Merab Dvalishvili defeats Sean O'Malley at Noche UFC 306
    Image: @ufc/Instagram

    Merab Dvalishvili, for his part, has been on a dominant run, dismantling O’Malley in their first fight and defending his belt in style against Umar Nurmagomedov. Saturday’s main event is a chance for O’Malley to prove he belongs at the top, and for Dvalishvili to cement his reign. The UFC 316 card is stacked, with a co-main event featuring Julianna Peña defending her women’s bantamweight title against two-time Olympic judo gold medalist Kayla Harrison.

    As O’Malley puts it, if you want the big checks, you need to bring something extra to the cage. Otherwise, there’s always Target.

  • Kayla Harrison: “I’m Ready to Put That UFC Belt Around My Waist – Then Kiss Dana on His Bald Head”

    Kayla Harrison: “I’m Ready to Put That UFC Belt Around My Waist – Then Kiss Dana on His Bald Head”

    Kayla Harrison may involve the chrome dome of Dana White into her celebrations if all goes well at UFC 316. Speaking with Mike Heck of MMA Fighting ahead of her bid for UFC bantamweight gold this weekend, Harrison discussed several subjects. The multi-time Olympic gold medalist and former PFL champion looks to claim the 135 pound crown presently held by Julianna Pena when the two clash in the pay-per-view co-maine vent set for Saturday, June 7th in Newark, New Jersey. When discussing her mindset heading into such a massive matchup considering her martial arts pedigree ons ome of the biggest stages in the world, Kayla Harrison said.

    Kayla Harrison

    “This is what it’s all about, you know? It’s all about daring to dream big. I know that I’ve put in the work, I know that I have the best team, I have the best game plan, I’m prepared, I’m ready—and that is going to be the fruit of my labor. To feel those feelings, to feel the weight of the UFC belt go around my waist, to probably give Dana a big old kiss on his bald head and just hug my family… yeah, I can’t wait for that moment.”

    “I think it’s probably a little more nerves, just because it’s my dreams on the line. But every fight matters, especially in MMA. It’s been a long journey to get here, and I’ve just been trying to be mindful of that. When the days are long or the sessions are hard, I remember that it’s all going to be worth it. Practicing gratitude, I think quite a bit about the fact that I’m living my dream. I don’t know that there are many people on the planet who get to say that—every day I wake up and I do exactly what I want to do; I chase my dream. When I remember that, it’s easy.”

    Kayla Harrison Discloses Hospitalization Due To Infection Before UFC 307
    Image: @ufc/Instagram

    Kayla Harrison and her run in the UFC octagon so far

    Kayla Harrison came into the octagon with a lot of hype from her days as a star in the PFL smart cage and she has lived up to the hype so far in her UFC tenure. Harrison debuted with the promotion on one of the biggest shows in company history as she submitted former bantamweight champion Holly Holm at UFC 300 last April. In her sophomore contest withthe MMA powerhouse, Kayla Harrison would defeat Ketlen Vieira by unanimous decision at UFC 307 last October to punch her ticket for this championship opportunity versus Julianna Pena.

    Kayla Harrison
    Image credit: UFC
  • Julianna Peña Fires Back: “I Don’t Need Gold Medals to Prove I’m the Most Dangerous Woman in the Room”

    Julianna Peña Fires Back: “I Don’t Need Gold Medals to Prove I’m the Most Dangerous Woman in the Room”

    Julianna Peña does not seem intimidated at all by the deep martial arts pedigree of her next opponent Kayla Harrison as we are all now immersed in fight week proceedings. Peña will aim to make the first defense of her second reign with the UFC bantamweight belt when she takes on multi-time Olympc judo gold medalist and former PFL champion, Kayla Harrison. This battle for the 135 pound crown will take place in the co-main event attraction for UFC 316 which is set for Saturday, June 7th in Newark, New Jersey.

    The reigning women’s bantamweight champion took part in an interview with Submission Radio and when addressing how much her opponent is a highly rated favorite heading into the cage this weekend, Julianna Peña said.

    “They got me as, you know, another underdog situation where everybody just thinks I’m an absolute wash—and that’s kind of how they’ve had me my entire career. For me, I’m more concerned about the process than the outcome. When everybody thinks that you’re a walkover, when they don’t want to give you any respect, when they all think that you’re just going to die in there and get killed in 10 seconds—I have nothing to lose and everything to gain. That makes me a very dangerous woman.”

    “Maybe because I don’t have the perfect rock ’em, sock ’em robot punches. Or maybe because I don’t have two gold medals in judo or a silver medal in wrestling. I’m very—maybe what they would consider—unorthodox. But the thing that always carries me through is that unwavering belief that I have in myself, a faith of: I don’t care who you are, what your accolades are, or what you’ve done—you are going to remember the day that you faced the Peña power.”

    Julianna Pena & Amanda Nunes
    Image: Chris Unger/UFC/Zuffa LLC

    Julianna Peña and her history with shocking upsets

    Julianna Peña is a sizable betting underdog heading into this Kayla Harrison fight which is a familiar narrative for the current UFC champion as she mentioned in the quote above. It seems like many are forgetting that ‘The Venezuelan Vixen’ pulled off one of the bigegst upsets in the history of the sport when Peña unseated Amanda Nunes from her bantamweight throne. Julianna Peña submitted Nunes via rear naked choke at UFC 269 to shock the world with the latter eventually regaining the title from the former at UFC 277 when Nunes won on points.

  • ‘I Want To Feel His Blood’ – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 2 Recap

    ‘I Want To Feel His Blood’ – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 2 Recap

    Welcome, everyone, to the second 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 usual premiere fun, as coaches Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen picked their teams, fighters got to move into The TUF House, and we got the first fight of the season.

    There wasn’t any short of drama already though! Team Cormier welterweight Rodrigo Sezinado showed that he seemed to be the most energetic one of this bunch; however, that put him at odds with Team Sonnen welterweight Diego Bianchini.

    It was a battle of No. 1 overall picks as Team Cormier’s Eduardo Henrique took on Team Sonnen’s Joseph Morales. Though Morales needed the box to weigh in successfully, his grappling advantage worked to his plan, as the UFC alumnus submitted the former LFA champion in less than three minutes — eliminating the No. 1 overall pick of the competition in the very first fight of the season!

    Recap of The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 – Episode 2

    Tonight, it’s the first 170-pound fight, as Team Cormier’s Daniil Donchenko will take on Team Sonnen’s Richard Martins. After striking first blood at flyweight, can Team Sonnen do the same at welterweight?

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

    Team Sonnen Training Session

    Good to see Morales giving Henrique some love after the fight. Morales says “there wasn’t as much blood as I wanted” and that he wanted to set the tone by taking out the No. 1 pick. He said the job isn’t done until he wins the TUF title.

    Chael Sonnen introduces this week’s special TUF alum guest — former UFC bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw. UFC President White goes into Dillashaw’s run on TUF as a contestant (finishing runner-up) and a coach against rival Cody Garbrandt.

    Dillashaw told the contestants that TUF provided an opportunity for escape from the real world, and he said that his TUF coach, Michael Bisping, was able to give him sound advice that’d help lead to his successful career.

    Dillashaw leads the training session, and all of the team seems to be very receptive to him. Dillashaw, by the way, adds that while he couldn’t wait to retire as a fighter, he now misses the adrenaline that fighting provides.

    Danill Donchenko Backstory

    Danill Donchenko talks about home life in Ukraine and mentions that three of his friends from school died in the Ukraine-Russia conflict. A video package then airs about Donchenko’s life with loved ones in Ukraine. Donchenko calls it an honor to represent his country on TUF.

    Donchenko talks about joining the world of MMA as a young boy, learning how to defend himself, and moving to Thailand with $800 in his pocket to train and make a new life for himself. Video footage shows of Donchenko training at Tiger Muay Thai, alongside training partner Robert Valentin — who was a runner-up on last year’s season of TUF.

    Donchenko says that “No one will beat me. I can smash everyone, and I can prove it.”

    Martins Fight Prep

    Martins admits to Sonnen that he wants to strike with Martins because he’s more comfortable — and he thinks he’s a better striker than Martins. Sonnen seems to would rather Donchenko make use of his jiu-jitsu brown belt — but Martins says that’s his “Plan B.” Martins says that Donchenko uses his kicks more, and he plans to neutralize that and make him feel his punches.

    We then see footage of some of Martins’ fights on the regional circuit, showing off his Muay Thai style. Martins admits he prefers to end fights via KO.

    Martins notes how Donchenko focuses on low kicks and that he wants to be aggressive. Sonnen feels Martins’ size disadvantage might actually give him the edge when it comes to speed — and make him difficult to hit.

    TUF House

    Manyamala reflects on being in the TUF House, saying it’s a surreal experience that he couldn’t have imagined. He and other fights look back on the famous picture of season 1’s TUF cast. With no phone or TV access, the pictures serve as entertainment — and as a goal for fighters to have their picture up in the house one day.

    Richard Martins Backstory

    Martins reflects on how the TUF experience has left him away from his wife — and how much he misses her. Martins discusses life in Brazil with his wife and the support she has for his dream.

    Martins then guides us on a tour of his house, showing off his birds.

    Martins’ team uses an Aikido Gym, sharing the space. Martins has been able to train full time for four years now and says he feels he’s at his best now.

    Donchenko Fight Prep

    Cormier says Martins has power and pressure, and that Donchenko needs to lead the dance and mix up his strikes. Cormier praises Donchenko’s creativity in his striking, and he tells Donchenko he needs to put that on display in the fight.

    Donchenko says he loves Martins’ style, but Donchenko says Martins will not have the time to realize what will happen — promising a fast finish.

    We then get footage of Donchenko competing on the regional circuit. Donchenko describes his fighting style as “putting a lot of damage on my opponent.”

    Donchenko promises he will kick and throw a lot of punches; he promises to do anything for the win.

    The Fight: Danill Donchenko vs. Richard Martins

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

    Donchenko weighs in at 171. Martins weighs in at 169.5. Fight is on!

    Jeff Creighton says Martins is a great opponent for Donchenko because of his experiencing and striking power. Matt Dixon, meanwhile, says Martins being so well-rounded will make the difference, calling Martins “the cream of the crop.”

    Donchenko promises that the fight will show how he will fight and says he promises to fight like it’s the last one of his life. Martins, meanwhile, says he is quite a distance away from home, and that he knows he is ready.

    Danill Donchenko vs. Richard Martins

    Round 1

    Donchenko opens with leg kicks, while Martins tries to close the distance right away. Strong front kick thrown by Donchenko. Strong right hand ROCKS Martins! Donchenko swarms Martins against the fence. Donchenko continues to lay it in! Herb Dean warns Martins to fight back – and Martins clinches Donchenko up JUST before Dean was going to step in! Wow!

    Clinch battle against the fence, with Donchenko’s back to it. Sonnen telling Martins to keep the underhook, while Donchenko lands a knee. Cormier telling Donchenko to turn out of the clinch. Elbow and a turn — and Donchenko escapes. A couple of right hands from Donchenko. Martins catches a kick. Right hand from Donchenko. One-two from Martins. Low kick from Donchenko, followed by a right. Cormier yelling at Donchenko to stop loading up on his punches.

    Left hand from Donchenko. Low kick from Donchenko. Donchenko misses a high kick, and Cormier tells him to slow down. Donchenko throws a left. Sonnen tells Martin to just touch him. Cormier telling Donchenko he’s “way ahead” and telling him not to rush things again. Donchenko pressures Martins back. Low kick from Donchenko. Combinations from both men now. Leg kick from Donchenko. Sharp round kick from Martins. Front kick from Donchenko. Low kick from Donchenko. Another combination from Donchenko before the horn — capping off a strong round from the Ukranian.

    Round 2

    Martins coming out on the front foot, trying to gain some momentum here. Left jab from Martins, and Donchenko answers with a low kick and a jab. Donchenko trying to come forward here. Quick left from both men. Right hand and a low kick from Donchenko. Martins presses, but Donchenko presses right back. Left hand from Donchenko. Cormier telling Donchenko to keep ahead.

    Donchenko grabs a leg and presses Martins against the fence. Strong one-two from Donchenko on the separation. Right hand, followed by a one-two from Donchenko. Right hand from Martins. Right hand now from Donchenko. Low kick from Donchenko. Sonnen begging for activity from Martins. Right hand from Donchenko. More combinations from Donchenko as the halfway point lands.

    Left hands from Donchenko. Sonnen trying to bring a sense of urgency into Martins. “Touch him now!” Right jab from Martins. Donchenko flashes the left. Front kick from Donchenko to the body. One-two thrown by Donchenko. Low kick from Donchenko. Combination from Donchenko. A couple of more kicks from Donchenko.

    A couple of left hands from Martins, but Donchenko answers back. One minute left. Cormier telling Donchenko to keep pushing. Dana White is shown on screen mentioning how Donchenko has done everything in this fight to Martins, and yet Martins still stands. Donchenko lands one takedown briefly on Martins. Donchenko continues to press. One-two from Donchenko. Knee by Martins, but Donchenko with a one-two again. Quick left hand from Martins. The horn sounds.

    Donchenko’s eye is busted up — but that’s the fight. A decision is in after two rounds.

    Dominant performance from Donchenko.

    Winner: Danill Donchenko via unanimous decision after two rounds

    Conclusion

    White gives his commentary, noting that Donchenko went into the fight to make a statement. The coaches were impressed by Donchenko but noting that Martins did little to answer back — or couldn’t answer back because of Donchenko’s assertive pressure, taking charge of this fight from the very beginning and, in Sonnen’s words “leading the dance” the whole way. White noted that Martins had good exchanges, but Donchenko was too much for him.

    Team Cormier draws first blood at 170.

    Martins reflects and says he wishes he could have done more, but he feels it was a learning experience. He says while he feels sad now, this will allow him to improve things and “everything will work out.”

    Donchenko says he promised violence — and he proved it. He promises his gloves will read “UFC” soon.

    With Team Cormier’s first victory, he names the next flyweight fight: Team Cormier’s Imanol Rodriguez vs. Team Sonnen’s Arshiyan Memon. The two have an intense staredown with some expletives — though it’s more entertaining than tense.

    Carla Esparza will be the guest fighter next week, joining Team Sonnen. But it looks like Sezinado and Bianchini’s drama will continue to boil next week at the TUF House!

    What will happen next week? Join alongside us then!

    Thanks for joining me in the second-ever edition of The TUF Stuff!

  • Kayla Harrison on falling for judo at six: ‘I believe in love at first sight, that was it for me’

    Kayla Harrison on falling for judo at six: ‘I believe in love at first sight, that was it for me’

    The US-born Kayla Harrison arrives at UFC 316 after a rapid and successful transition from judo to mixed martial arts. After a dominant UFC debut over Holly Holm at UFC 300 and a unanimous decision win against Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307, which secured her title shot. Harrison’s background as a judoka is central to her fighting style. She is known for her powerful ground game and heavy ground-and-pound, attributes that have made her one of the most popular female fighters in MMA today.

    Kayla Harrison And Judo

    A two-time Olympic gold medalist in judo, Kayla Harrison, traces her love for the sport back to her childhood. At six years old, Harrison was inspired by a karate commercial on television, which led her mother, who had taken judo in college, to introduce her to the local dojo. “I don’t know what it was about judo specifically, but I definitely believe in love at first sight because I fell in love. That was it. I never played any other sports growing up. It was just judo,” Harrison said, in a recent interview.

    Kayla Harrison’s dedication to judo quickly became apparent, and her talent was confirmed when she won the junior world championships in Thailand at age 18. “I was like, ‘Oh wow, I’m good at this. I won a big tournament. This is good,’” she recalled. Harrison went on to make history at the 2012 London Olympics, becoming the first American to win Olympic gold in judo, and repeated her success at the 2016 Rio Games.

    Kayla Harrison
    Image credit: UFC

    Her achievements were recognized at the highest levels, with her black belt displayed in the Smithsonian Museum. “Sometimes I still can’t believe it. Sometimes I’m like, ‘The Smithsonian has my black belt in the museum because I won the first gold medal for our country.’ I’m just like, ‘What?’ It’s crazy. But it also taught me that you can do anything you set your mind to—even if no one’s done it before, it’s still possible,” Harrison explained.

    Kayla Harrison Discloses Hospitalization Due To Infection Before UFC 307
    Image: @ufc/Instagram

    UFC 316

    After her Olympic career, Kayla Harrison transitioned to MMA, joining the PFL in 2018. She quickly established herself as a dominant force, winning the PFL women’s lightweight tournament twice and compiling an undefeated record until 2022. Harrison’s success in MMA led to her signing with the UFC in early 2024, where she made her debut with a decisive win over former bantamweight champion Holly Holm at UFC 300.

    Kayla Harrison responds to PFL mocking her record
    Image: @kaylaharrisonofficial/Instagram

    Upcoming this weeken at UFC 316, Julianna Peña will look to defend her world championship against Harrison. While some, including former champion Valentina Shevchenko, have predicted a tough night for Kayla Harrison, oddsmakers currently favor the Olympic champion. If Harrison wins, she will become only the second fighter to hold both an Olympic gold medal and a UFC title, further solidifying her legacy as one of the most accomplished athletes in combat sports.

  • Jon Anik Declares Merab Dvalishvili the GOAT – Even Over His Best Friend Dominick Cruz

    Jon Anik Declares Merab Dvalishvili the GOAT – Even Over His Best Friend Dominick Cruz

    Jon Anik already sees Merab Dvalishvili as being the msot accomplished 135 pound fighter in MMA history, over the likes of Dominick Cruz and TJ Dillashaw. The UFC commentator spoke about this on a recent episode of MMA Junkie Radio about several of the big topics heading into UFC 316. This card set to go down on Saturday features a pair of bantamweight title bouts with Merab Dvalishvili defending his crown agaisnt Sean O’Malley in a rematch. While in the co-main event, Julianna Pena defends her 135 pound strap against Kayla Harrison. When touching on the run of the Georgian athlete within the UFC’s bantamweight ranks.

    Merab Dvalishvili Might be the GOAT

    Anik said:

    “Pretty historic, I think. Well, it’s actually 12 straight wins, and he has already defended the title. I do believe he already has status as the greatest bantamweight of all time. And I say that as a man who—if I got married this weekend—Dominick Cruz would be a groomsman. He’s one of my best friends in the world. But when I look at the body of work of Merab Dvalishvili in the modern era, he could be 14–0 in the UFC. He lost to Frankie Saenz and then had a contentious ending against Ricky Simon.

    Merab Dvalishvili & Sean O'Malley
    Image: @ufc/X

    With respect to those two guys, it’s been 12 straight wins ever since. And to your point, he left a murderer’s row of champions in his wake before he even fought for the title—beat Henry Cejudo, beat Petr Yan, beat José Aldo. Then he beat Sean O’Malley, defended the title on the challengers’ timeline by beating Umar Nurmagomedov, and now the rematch with Sean O’Malley.

    As far as I’m concerned—with respect to Aljamain Sterling and my BFF Dominick Cruz—the greatest bantamweight of all time, not so quietly, is Merab ‘The Machine’ Dvalishvili.”

    Merab Dvalishvili
    (Merab Dvalishvili on Instagram)

    Jon Anik discusses Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison title bout

    Jon Anik also touched on the second title clash that is set to go down in Newark this weekend. The acclaimed UFC broadcaster spoke of how if Kayla Harrison can usurp Julianna Pena‘s throne, the multi-time Olympic gold medalist has the potential to become the face of women’s MMA. Jon Anik also spoke of some fighters having global star power but not always the domestic noteriety, in a North American context, but sees Harrison as someone with a great story that can really propel her into that pop culture zeitgeist of broader awareness both in America and around the world.

  • Michael Chandler Explains Why He Called Out Conor McGregor … Again “it’s going to happen”

    Michael Chandler Explains Why He Called Out Conor McGregor … Again “it’s going to happen”

    Michael Chandler has been burned many times regarding the booking of a Conor McGregor fight but the former multi-time Bellator MMA champion stilll keeps calling out the Irishman all the same. ‘Iron’ Michael explained some of his logic behind this during an interview with Mike Bohn of MMA Junkie. This interview was the first that Chandler has done since his devastating setback against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 314 and articulated what he wants next.

    Michael Chandler Calls Out Conor McGregor

    On, Conor McGregor Chandler said:

    “It was really funny. I was sitting around with a buddy and we have the same exact anniversary. I looked it up—January 24th is my wife and I’s anniversary, and it just so happens to be a Saturday. So I was like, ‘Let’s throw that out there, let’s speak it into existence.’ The turn of the new year, probably a new TV deal these guys are working on. If that Conor McGregor fight is out there and that needs to happen in January, that makes a lot ofsense.

    “I get asked about it almost every single interview, and rightfully so—the Conor-Chandler thing just stays alive. We were supposed to fight in June, we did The Ultimate Fighter, we have to finish The Ultimate Fighter. If me and Conor McGregor are supposed to fight and he’s supposed to come back, it’s going to happen. I don’t need to force it. If I’m a betting man, I’m not sure if he comes back. Do I want to fight him? Do I want to finish The Ultimate Fighter 31? Absolutely.”

    Chael Sonnen Names 2 Champions Battling To Replace Conor McGregor As 'Face Of The' UFC
    Image: @thenotoriousmma/Instagram

    Michael Chandler touches on the Paddy Pimblett setback

    Michael Chandler has given his first interview since his loss to the former Cage Warriors champion and is finally shining some light on that performance almost fifty days after the loss. In the same interview with MMA Junkie, Chandler spoke about how he felt like like he couldn’t get his rhythm or his range when fighting the surging UK star in their Miami matchup. Michael Chandler mentioned that when he finally started somewhat settling into things a bit more, he ate that emphatic knee to the face from Paddy Pimblett and felt like it was the end of it when he was taken down thereafter.

    It will be interesting to see the next move for Chandler who aims to rebound from setbacks to Pimblett, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier. Chandler mentioned he wants to take the Summer off and seems to prefer to map out a return bout for later on in the year.

  • ‘Ilia Topuria Beats Islam Makhachev’: Top-Ranked UFC Star Makes Shock Prediction For Superfight At 155

    ‘Ilia Topuria Beats Islam Makhachev’: Top-Ranked UFC Star Makes Shock Prediction For Superfight At 155

    A top UFC bantamweight contender believes Ilia Topuria would hold the stylistic upper hand in a potential lightweight clash against Islam Makhachev.

    Topuria relinquished his UFC featherweight crown in February in an effort to secure an immediate superfight with reigning lightweight champion Makhachev, aiming to etch his name in history as a two-division titleholder. However, the Dagestani offered a lukewarm response to the proposed superfight.

    Instead, Makhachev is set to vacate his 155-pound belt as he shifts his focus to the welterweight division, where he plans to challenge current champion Jack Della Maddalena later this year. With the lightweight strap now up for grabs, “El Matador” is slated to square off against former champion Charles Oliveira for the vacant title in the headlining bout of UFC 317, scheduled for June 28.

    Although Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev appear to be headed down vastly different career trajectories, with little likelihood of their paths crossing inside the Octagon anytime soon, one former UFC interim bantamweight title challenger believes that if the stars were to align, the undefeated Spaniard has owns the style and sharpness to edge out a win.

    Former UFC featherweight Ilia Topuria.

    Cory Sandhagen Claims Ilia Topuria Has Tools To Trouble Islam Makhachev

    During a recent appearance on the Overdogs Podcast, Cory Sandhagen weighed in on a potential lightweight bout between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev. “Sandman” acknowledged Makhachev’s status as one of the sport’s premier grapplers but suggested that the former UFC featherweight champion’s elite takedown defense and striking prowess could tip the balance in his favor.

    “If Ilia and Islam fight at 155, I honestly think Ilia would win that fight,” Sandhagen said. “His stature is going to be hard to take down for Islam, and if those two are standing, I just think Ilia is a way, way more dangerous guy standing. I can’t really see Islam hurting him because his guard is real good.”

    “El Matador” was last seen in action at UFC 308 in October, where he successfully defended his featherweight title with a third-round knockout of former champion Max Holloway. Meanwhile, Makhachev’s latest outing came at UFC 311 in January, where he successfully defended his lightweight belt with a first-round submission victory over Renato Moicano. 

    Dustin Poirier Backs Ilia Topuria For Immediate Lightweight Title Shot Against Islam Makhachev
    Images: @iliatopuria/@islam_makhachev/Instagram
  • “Dana White Has a Deadline” UFC Insider Says Jon Jones Could Be Stripped if Tom Aspinall Fight Falls Through

    “Dana White Has a Deadline” UFC Insider Says Jon Jones Could Be Stripped if Tom Aspinall Fight Falls Through

    Jon Jones could be running out of time. The UFC heavyweight division finds itself at a crossroads, and the man holding the map is none other than Dana White. According to UFC insider and perennial provocateur Chael Sonnen, the clock is ticking for Jon Jones, the reigning but rarely seen heavyweight champion, to finally square off with interim champ Tom Aspinall.

    Deadline Dana: Jon Jones Faces the Chop if Aspinall Fight Falls Flat

    If that fight doesn’t materialize, Sonnen warns, Jones could find himself stripped of his title, something the UFC has never done while an undisputed champion is still technically in the picture.“Will the UFC put a deadline on the heavyweight division? Yes, privately, Dana White has a date and location,” Sonnen revealed, adding that, “If Dana doesn’t succeed at getting that fight closer, he’s going to start to get angry—and that’s not a guy you want to say no to. The UFC has never allowed an interim champion to exist in the presence of our undisputed champion. If Jon Jones doesn’t fight Aspinall, I do believe we would have to strip Jones.”

    For months, the saga has played out like a heavyweight soap opera. Jon Jones, the former light heavyweight kingpin, made his long-awaited move to heavyweight. Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall has bulldozed his way through the division, grabbing the interim belt, even defending this title, and calling for a shot at the top. Negotiations have been as slippery, with both fighters and the UFC brass keeping details close to the vest.

    Jon Jones' coach speaks out on fighting Stipe Miocic
    Image: UFC.com

    After Jon Jones captured the vacant heavyweight title in March 2023, a defense against Stipe Miocic was set but fell apart due to Jones’s injury. Enter Tom Aspinall, who seized the interim belt by knocking out Sergei Pavlovich and then defended it in July 2024, all while calling out Jones for a unification bout. But instead of the clash fans craved, negotiations devolved into a slow-motion standoff.

    Aspinall has been ready and waiting, repeatedly stating he’d fight Jones “whenever and wherever.” But Jones, ever the master of mind games, has kept everyone guessing—publicly musing about retirement, focusing on “love and happiness,” and even shifting blame for delays onto the UFC itself. When asked about the holdup, Jones claimed, “Y’all barking up the wrong tree, I told the UFC my plans a long time ago. I have no clue why they haven’t shared them with you guys yet”. Meanwhile, he’s been busy with seminars in Thailand and reality TV, while Aspinall sits idle and frustrated.

    Public pressure has mounted. A fan petition to strip Jones of the title has soared past 150,000 signatures, with accusations that he’s “holding the title hostage”. Even Dana White, usually tight-lipped, has hinted at a deadline, with November at Madison Square Garden rumored as the final window for this fight to materialize. Chael Sonnen, never one to miss a headline, claims the fight is finally booked, but official confirmation remains elusive.

    Over 76,000 Fans Sign Petition For UFC To Strip Jon Jones of Heavyweight Title
    Image: @UFCEspanol/X

    Sonnen, never shy with an analogy, painted a picture of Dana White’s shifting moods: “Whatever Tom and Dana said on a phone call stays right there, whatever Jon and Dana said stays right there. That’s called ‘nice Dana’—and nice Dana gets a lot of fights done. Mad Dana gets every fight done. You’ll know when mad Dana arrives—when you start getting revealed what was said on these calls, that’s the clue that the date is sneaking up on us. But right now, it’s optimistic Dana, calm Dana.”

    The rumored deadline? Sonnen hints at November, with Madison Square Garden as the likely battleground. “I believe I even know when—November. I think I even know where—Madison Square Garden. That’s not inside scoop, I’m just sharing for you. As that date gets closer, if those bout agreements don’t start coming together, you’re going to see mean Dana. But either way, you’re going to see Jon and Tom fight.”

    The message is clear: the UFC’s patience isn’t infinite, and neither is Jon Jones’ reign if he doesn’t defend his throne.

    Tom Aspinall: Jon Jones' Drug Tests Disqualify Him As Greatest Fighter
    Images: @tomaspinallofficial/@jonnybones/Instagram
  • Merab Dvalishvili Says Sean O’Malley Won’t Get Kissed This Time Around – No More Kisses!

    Merab Dvalishvili Says Sean O’Malley Won’t Get Kissed This Time Around – No More Kisses!

    The playful days are over, at least, that’s the message Merab Dvalishvili is sending to Sean O’Malley ahead of their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 316.

    Will Merab Dvalishvili Kiss Sean O’Malley again?

    While their first encounter was memorable for Dvalishvili’s relentless takedowns and, yes, a surprise kiss mid-fight, the Georgian bantamweight insists there will be no repeat of that affectionate moment this time. In an interview, he explained: “I’m looking for a finish. Even if Sean stops my takedowns, I’m going to throw hard punches. First time I kissed him, this time I will try to finish him. No more kisses!” Dvalishvili declared.

    He added: “Yeah, I was laughing, I was showboating, and then I was kissing him. I’m not planning on kissing in this fight—I’m planning to finish him. If a kiss comes, I never plan this stuff, it’s just natural and depends how I’m going to feel. But I already kissed him—now it’s time to smash him,” Dvalishvili explained, making it clear that he’s all business at UFC 316.

    Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O’Malley’s rivalry began in March 2023 at UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas, a bout that quickly became infamous for reasons beyond just the scorecards. Merab Dvalishvili pressed the action from the opening bell. Sean O’Malley, ever the slick striker, had his moments on the feet but struggled to keep Dvalishvili off him as the Georgian repeatedly scored takedowns and controlled the fight on the ground. Despite O’Malley’s efforts, Dvalishvili’s dominant grappling secured him a unanimous decision win, with the kiss becoming a highlight reel moment that made the rounds on social media.

    The stakes for Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2 at UFC 316 could not be higher, with the UFC Bantamweight Championship on the line and both fighters’ legacies hanging in the balance. Dvalishvili, who captured the 135-pound title from O’Malley in their first meeting at UFC 306 and has since defended it against Umar Nurmagomedov, is aiming to cement his dominance in the division and extend a win streak that now spans over seven years.

    Merab Dvalishvili Aims to Be UFC’s Most Active Champ: “Two more this year" After UFC 316

    Fast forward to June 7, 2025, and the stage is set for their rematch at UFC 316, once again in Las Vegas. One thing’s certain: fans shouldn’t expect any more lip service from the Georgian. The only thing Dvalishvili plans to deliver on fight night is a statement win – no kisses attached.

    Merab Dvalishvili
    Image: @UFCEurope/X
  • 3 Hits And 3 Misses From UFC Fight Night: Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber

    3 Hits And 3 Misses From UFC Fight Night: Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber

    It was back to the UFC APEX this past Saturday night, as the UFC held its May 31 Fight Night event — UFC Vegas 107: Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber in its headquarters.

    The night ended up being history making in a way no one expected — the scheduled main event of the evening did not make the walk to the Octagon.

    The planned main event between Blanchfield and Barber would have been a battle of top-five women’s flyweight contenders. Blanchfield has won 10 of her last 11 and was to come into this fight off a November win over Rose Namajunas. Barber, meanwhile, is on a six-fight win streak and would have competed for the first time since UFC 299 after battling several health issues during 2024.

    Only nine bouts went ahead on the night — five on the main card and four in the prelims. The final event of the evening, the originally scheduled co-main event, saw Mateusz Gamrot compete in his first fight since his UFC 305 loss to Dan Hooker, as he took on L’udovit Klein.

    The main card also featured Dustin Jacoby taking on Bruno Lopes, a women’s featherweight battle between Ketlen Vieira and Macy Chiasson, and Zachary Reese facing Duško Todorović.

    Let’s now take in the good and the bad with this week’s edition of Hits and Misses!

    Miss – Boy, Did This Card Fall Apart

    I can’t say for certain that this was the worst card in the history of the UFC like some on a certain social media platform are saying. But after the entertaining Apex night that was the UFC Fight Night on May 17, this one, held in the same venue just two weeks later, definitely has to be up there for the Worst Card of 2025.

    Firstly, “card subject to change” really came into play in this show. Andreas Gustafsson originally gets booked with Jeremiah Wells before an injury to Wells sees him replaced by Trevin Giles — only for Giles to be pulled on the day of weigh-ins after falling in the bathroom. Ramiz Brahimaj and Billy Ray Goff faced each other because their original opponents, Oban Elliott and Ko Seok-hyun, respectively, had visa issues. So, the UFC decided to play “le switcheroo.” Michael Aswell filled in on just days’ notice against Bolaji Oki after MarQuel Mederos fell ill.

    And then of course came what happened in the main event — when Maycee Barber’s sudden medical issue resulted in her fight with Erin Blanchfield being canceled right before Octagon walks. The Fight Night became UFC Fight Night: Gamrot vs. Klein IN RETROSPECT. That is insanity.

    And it’s only after all that you can point to a lack number of fights, a lack of star power, and a lack of finishes.

    Despite some entertaining evenings such as UFCs 314 and 315, as well as the Burns vs. Morales card of two weeks ago, UFC Vegas 107 provided us a stark reminder that the sport of MMA is in a recession period — and that (even some WWE fans may tell you) the UFC under TKO’s rule just may be providing us the darkest modern timelime in this promotion.

    Hit – Jordan Leavitt Reminds Us How Entertaining He Can Be

    Only one finish came on the preliminary card, and fortunately it was such a highlight, as Jordan Leavitt pulled off a quick submission of Kurt Holobaugh.

    Both men are great grapplers, but Leavitt proved he was the better fighter on this night. He not only was the one who initiated the ground battle, but he dominated with top pressure but putting Holobaugh to sleep with a choke.

    On top of that, he had a solid worm celebration that he showed off following his victory.

    Leavitt hasn’t been the most dominant since bursting onto the UFC scene from Dana White’s Contender Series, but he’s had some great finishes. In addition to this one against Holobaugh, he’s also earned bonuses from his slam KO of Matt Wiman and his finish of Victor Martinez.

    This was Leavitt’s first fight after missing all of 2024, and he reminded fight fans just how exciting he can be to watch here.

    Miss – Ketlen Vieira’s Weight Issues, Macy Chiasson’s Performance

    Ketlen Vieira and Macy Chiasson was a fight I had my eye on solely based on their names alone in this card that didn’t have the greatest of star power. Unfortunately, their name values and their status as top-five bantamweight contenders couldn’t save a fight that ultimately proved to sound a lot better on paper.

    It was a one-sided slaughtering on the side of Vieira. After landing some powerful strikes early on, Vieira was dominant on the ground for most of the fight, overwhelming Chiasson with top pressure and strong positioning, limiting most of Chiasson’s offense. It wasn’t until the closing stages of the last round that Chiasson tried to blitz and overwhelm Vieira on the feet — and even then it wasn’t enough.

    On the Vieira side of the things, it was a strong performance. Unfortunately, part of the problem with this fight is that it took place at a weight class the UFC doesn’t do anything with anymore (not like they did much with it in the first place either) — women’s featherweight. The two were scheduled to face off at 135, but the fight was moved to 145 on the day of weigh-ins because of “weight management” issues on the side of Vieira.

    If this fight had taken place at its originally intended weight class, I think there would have been a lot more talk about her being in line to face the winner of next week’s Julianna Pena vs. Kayla Harrison title fight. There still can be, but the weight management issues will definitely bring that into question. This is especially after how May also saw weight management issues get involved in Jose Aldo’s retirement fight with Aiemann Zahabi.

    Meanwhile, for Chiasson, this was just a brutal outing. This was definitely a step back after a 2024 that saw her earn performance bonuses in finishes of Pannie Kianzad and former title challenger Mayra Bueno Silva. You just have to hope it was an off night, she dusts off and gets back to the planning room and can get back to her recent powerful self in her next outing.

    Hit – Dustin Jacoby Delivers Some Needed Violence

    When this card needed a wake-up call, Dustin Jacoby was the one to deliver it. He also had one of the only finishes on the night, pulling off a quick, powerful victory over Bruno Lopes.

    Jacoby rocked Lopes with a jab. Then he did more damage with an elbow. Then a couple of hooks started a wild flurry against Lopes, who was up against the fence, before Lopes crumbled to the mat for an easy first-round finish.

    After getting knocked out by Dominick Reyes last year, which brought about four losses in five fights, things looked grim for Jacoby. But back-to-back knockout victories now show just how fun it can be to watch the former GLORY Kickboxing star.

    Hopefully this is the start of him getting back to winning ways that he had when he came into the UFC in 2020.

    Hit – From Injury To Shining Performance For Ramiz Brahimaj

    If Jordan Leavitt had the great submission and Dustin Jacoby had the great KO, then Ramiz Brahimaj had the upset of the evening and the feel-good moment of it.

    Brahimaj pulled off a strong submission victory of his own, taking out Billy Ray Goff. He got Goff down and to his back quickly before Goff stood up and got the fight in a clinch, landing a strong elbow in the process. Brahimaj, however, showed off slick submission skills by going from a guillotine choke attempt to a ninja choke that put Goff to sleep — ending things before the referee could.

    Brahimaj was a major underdog going into the fight, and that just adds to the story of how a spinal injury could have ended his career just a couple of years ago.

    A feel good moment for Brahimaj, and it’s hopefully more positive momentum that he can ride.

    Miss – Erin Blanchfield And Maycee Barber Don’t Make The Main Event Walk

    The main event promo package on ESPN+ had just finished airing. The camera transitioned back to the UFC APEX. But no music played. At first I’m sitting there thinking “Well, typical UFC on ESPN and a production botch” — only to then see that the commentary team was confused by no fighters making the walk out just as I was.

    And when the camera transitioned back over to the UFC commentary team before a throw to a sudden commercial break, I just knew this fight wasn’t happening. And indeed it didn’t.

    Unfortunately, since COVID, we’ve seen instances of sudden cancelations of bouts during cards. Trevin Giles fainted moments before his scheduled bout with Kevin Holland. Chas Skelly was already in the Octagon when his February 2021 fight with Jamall Emmers was scrapped due to Emmers suffering back spasms. We’ve seen several instances in this five-year timespan where fighters are pulled on the day of the event due to illness or some sort of medical issue.

    But if we’re talking exclusively main event fights, we haven’t seen a thing like this happen since UFC 24 in March 2000, when Kevin Randleman slipped backstage and received a concussion, canceling a scheduled heavyweight title bout with Pedro Rizzo — ruining the whole “First Defense” tagline of that card.

    As of press time, we have no official word as to what happened other than a last-minute medical issue. Blanchfield claimed in an interview on the broadcast that Barber suffered a seizure but she wouldn’t entertain a re-scheduling with Barber due to Barber’s “unprofessionalism.”

    If it’s true Barber suffered a seizure for whatever reason, Blanchfield’s call of someone being “unprofessional” feels dirty. But simultaneously, you have to feel for her, being ready to go after all her work and preparation — only for the fight to be called off as she’s getting ready to make the walk. Fortunately, she did reportedly receive her show and win money.

    Also, it’s such a shame that Barber goes through this after battling a litany of health issues stemming from Epstein-Barr that included a nine-day hospitalization, with Barber’s health getting so bad to the point she felt she was going to die. And now, here we are. And knowing how brutal the MMA fanbase, let alone the whole industry, can be, this historic circumstance — combined with her weight miss and Blanchfield’s doubts Barber would make it to the cage — may end up being a bad PR time for her.

    The sudden main event cancelation was just the cherry on top of the gross sundae that was the May 31, 2025 UFC Fight Night event.

  • Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber UFC Vegas 107 Main Event Canceled Right Before Walkouts

    Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber UFC Vegas 107 Main Event Canceled Right Before Walkouts

    Just when you think you’ve seen it all in the sport of Mixed Martial Arts, something always can happen to leave you in shock. And UFC Vegas 107 had such an event.

    The scheduled main event bout between Erin Blanchfield and Maycee Barber was canceled just before the fighters were scheduled to walk out for the fight. ESPN had just played the main event promo package but neither fighter appeared for entrances.

    After a long commercial break, the UFC commentary team announced that Barber had suffered a medical issue and was pulled from the fight by the UFC’s medical staff at the last minute.

    Blanchfield claims that Barber suffered a seizure prior to walkouts.

    Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber Main Event Scrapped Right Before Walkouts At UFC Vegas 107

    This was to be Barber’s first fight since her victory over Katlyn Cerminara at UFC 299. Barber had battled various health issues over the past year, including a bout with Epstein-Barr that resulted in her being hospitalized for nine days.

    Barber had missed weight by half a pound the day before the event. Blanchfield had suggested earlier in the week that Barber may not make it to the fight — and said in a backstage interview immediately after the cancelation that she would, at the word of her coaches, not entertain any sort of re-scheduling with Barber.

    There has been one other occurrence where the UFC lost its main event during the card itself. UFC 24 was originally scheduled to be headlined by UFC heavyweight champion Kevin Randleman defending his title against Pedro Rizzo until Randleman slipped on the concrete floor backstage, hospitalized with a concussion.

    Blanchfield has won 10 of her last 11 bouts, with her sole loss in the span coming against recent title challenger Manon Fiorot. This would have been Blanchfield’s first fight since her win over Rose Namajunas in November.

    Barber was to have entered this fight on a six-fight win streak.

  • ‘Give Him A Top Five Opponent’ – Fans And Fighters React To Mateusz Gamrot Putting On Grappling Clinic Vs. L’udovit Klein At UFC Vegas 107

    ‘Give Him A Top Five Opponent’ – Fans And Fighters React To Mateusz Gamrot Putting On Grappling Clinic Vs. L’udovit Klein At UFC Vegas 107

    Mateusz Gamrot is claiming he’s still a top name at lightweight, making the statement of contender status with a win over L’udovit Klein in the co-main event of UFC Vegas 107.

    Gamrot set the tone early with relentless pressure, mixing striking with takedowns and control. Though Klein had a brief moment when he stunned Gamrot with a jab, Gamrot secured multiple takedowns, controlling from the back and hammering Klein with punches and knees.

    Gamrot continued to smother Klein in the second round, staying active from top position with strikes and stifling Klein’s offense. He used positional grappling effectively, even threatening an arm-triangle to maintain control. Klein came out more aggressive, trying to change the tide with kicks and combinations. While he had some success at range, Gamrot’s takedowns and top control continued, sealing him the round and fight. He ended strong in side control, landing ground-and-pound and securing a crucifix.

    Mateusz Gamrot Dominates In Decision Win Over L’udovit Klein In UFC Vegas 107 Co-Main Event

    https://twitter.com/ProchazkaSzn/status/1929016288623423610
    https://twitter.com/Jimbo_J_/status/1929015566867530058

    Gamrot rebounds here after falling short against Dan Hooker at UFC 305 last year.

    Klein sees a seven-fight unbeaten streak (6-0-1) snapped with the loss here tonight.

  • VIDEO: Ramiz Brahimaj Pulls Off First-Round Submission In Shocking Fashion

    VIDEO: Ramiz Brahimaj Pulls Off First-Round Submission In Shocking Fashion

    Ramiz Brahimaj didn’t let odds get in the way of a major injury a couple of years ago, and he didn’t let them get in the way of pulling off a huge victory over Billy Ray Goff during the main card of UFC Vegas 107.

    The fight started slow before Brahimaj secured an early takedown, quickly scrambling and getting to Goff’s back. Goff escaped and managed to land a clinch elbow during the round. Brahimaj went from the clinch into a guillotine choke attempt — before transitioning it to a ninja choke attempt. The choke became tight quickly, and he managed to choke out Goff for the victory.

    Ramiz Brahimaj Puts Billy Ray Goff’s Lights Out At UFC Vegas 107

    As of a few hours prior to UFC Vegas 107’s start ,Brahimaj was a +320 underdog heading into the bout, per DraftKings.

    Brahimaj is now 2-1 since returning to action from a devastating spinal injury that could have been a career ender. He is 4-3 overall since coming into the UFC from LFA in 2020.

    Goff has now lost back-to-back fights after a seven-fight win streak.