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  • Dave & Buster’s Unveils UFC Challenge Game For An Immersive Arcade Experience

    Dave & Buster’s Unveils UFC Challenge Game For An Immersive Arcade Experience

    Dave & Buster’s is taking its collaboration with UFC to the next level with the launch of the UFC Challenge game, now available at all locations nationwide. Designed to deliver an interactive and competitive fight experience, this high-energy game allows fans to test their speed, accuracy, and endurance—bringing them closer to the octagon like never before.

    Building on a partnership established in 2022, Dave & Buster’s has already become a premier destination for UFC fans to watch Pay-Per-View and Fight Night events.

    The UFC Challenge Game

    Developed in collaboration with Rider & IGPM Distribution, Adrenaline Amusements, and Betson, the UFC Challenge game is a massive 11-foot-wide, 12-foot-tall, 1,700-pound arcade machine designed to simulate the intensity of a UFC bout.

    • Single-player mode: Compete through three intense rounds, aiming to rack up 200+ points to earn the title of UFC champion.
    • Two-player mode: Go head-to-head with an opponent, where accuracy determines victory—miss too many shots, and you’ll get knocked out
    • Authentic UFC branding: The game features official UFC gloves, Venum Fusion fight kits, and the iconic song Face the Pain by STEMM to set the stage.
    • Strategic gameplay: Players can maximize points by incorporating knee strikes into their combos.

    Simon Murray, Senior Vice President at Dave & Buster’s:

    “Watching UFC at Dave & Buster’s has always been an electrifying experience, and now we’re bringing fans even closer to the action. The UFC Challenge game is the perfect way for fans to test their skills before watching the best fighters in the world compete on our massive screens.”

    Meghan Mernin, Vice President of Licensing for UFC, echoed the excitement:

    “This game is an ideal extension of our brand, offering an immersive, authentic, and exciting UFC experience for fans of all ages.”

    For more details on the UFC Challenge game and upcoming events, visit Daveandbusters.com.

  • Jeremy Stephens Makes Shock UFC Return Despite Being Drafted For GFL

    Jeremy Stephens Makes Shock UFC Return Despite Being Drafted For GFL

    Mixed martial arts veteran Jeremy Stephens (29-21, 1 NC) is back for a 35th appearance in the UFC Octagon.

    Stephens’ unexpected return to the sport’s leading promotion comes almost four years on from his exit. “Lil Heathen’s’ submission defeat to Mateusz Gamrot left him winless across his last six fights, a run dating back to 2018.

    A brief stint in the PFL didn’t go too much better, with the 38-year-old going 1-2 and failing to reach the playoffs in his sole season. But he’s since bounced back in a new realm, winning three straight in bare-knuckle boxing.

    And after stopping Eddie Alvarez at BKFC Knucklemania V this past January, a return to MMA appeared to be next for Stephens after he was drafted by Team Miami for the launch year of the Global Fight League (GFL).

    A couple of months later, however, an unexpected announcement has revealed Jeremy Stephens’ sudden return to the UFC for a homecoming fight in Des Moines on May 3. The veteran will face another returning face in Wales’ Mason Jones (15-2, 1 NC) at 155 pounds.

    The news marks another blow to the legitimacy of the GFL. The new promotion was previously accused of announcing fighters for its draft who had not agreed to be included, and that trend has continued since the teams’ selections. After Rashad Evans refuted his signing after being drafted, Stephens has now become the latest to sign elsewhere.

    Jones, meanwhile, returns to the UFC after an unbeaten 4-0 run under the Cage Warriors banner. “The Dragon” will now look to impress in his second stint on MMA’s biggest stage.

    With this addition, the current fights expected to take place at UFC Des Moines on May 3 are as follows:

    • Cory Sandhagen vs. Deiveson Figueiredo (bantamweight)
    • Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal (middleweight)
    • Marina Rodriguez vs. Gillian Robertson (women’s strawweight)
    • Jeremy Stephens vs. Mason Jones (featherweight)
    • Marlon Vera vs. Mario Bautista (bantamweight)
    • Yana Santos vs. Miesha Tate (women’s bantamweight)
    • Santiago Ponzinibbio vs. Daniel Rodriguez (welterweight)
    • Montel Jackson vs. Daniel Marcos (bantamweight)
    • JeongYeong Lee vs. Trevor Peek (featherweight)
    • Cameron Smotherman vs. Serhiy Sidey (bantamweight)
    • Junior Tafa vs. Tuco Toccos (heavyweight)
    • Azamat Bekoev vs. Ryan Loder (middleweight)
  • Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal Confirmed For UFC Des Moines On May 3

    Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal Confirmed For UFC Des Moines On May 3

    Undefeated UFC middleweight prospect Bo Nickal has his latest assignment in the calendar.

    Nickal (7-0) has won all four of his Octagon appearances to date since a pair of victories on Dana White’s Contender Series to net a contract back in 2023.

    After submissions of Jamie Pickett and Cody Brundage sandwiched a knockout of Val Woodburn, the three-time NCAA Division I national champion and three-time Big Ten Conference champion out of Pennsylvania State University was taken to the scorecards for the first time.

    Nevertheless, the 29-year-old got the nod over Paul Craig at UFC 309 last November, and he now has his first opportunity at ranked opposition this year.

    The UFC confirmed this week that Bo Nickal will co-headline the UFC Fight Night in Des Moines on May 3, sharing the cage with #13-ranked middleweight contender Reinier de Ridder (19-2).

    News of the booking was first reported by Sporting News’ Val Dewar.

    De Ridder, too, is yet to taste defeat on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage. The Dutchman has won both of his UFC contests since jumping ship from ONE Championship, where he had reigned as a two-division champion.

    After a somewhat lackluster debut win over Gerald Meerschaert in late 2024, de Ridder opened his account for 2025 with a rapid first-round submission of Kevin Holland at UFC 311 in Los Angeles.

    With this addition, the current fights expected to take place at UFC Des Moines on May 3 are as follows:

    • Cory Sandhagen vs. Deiveson Figueiredo (bantamweight)
    • Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal (middleweight)
    • Marina Rodriguez vs. Gillian Robertson (women’s strawweight)
    • Jeremy Stephens vs. Mason Jones (lightweight)
    • Marlon Vera vs. Mario Bautista (bantamweight)
    • Yana Santos vs. Miesha Tate (women’s bantamweight)
    • Santiago Ponzinibbio vs. Daniel Rodriguez (welterweight)
    • Montel Jackson vs. Daniel Marcos (bantamweight)
    • JeongYeong Lee vs. Trevor Peek (featherweight)
    • Cameron Smotherman vs. Serhiy Sidey (bantamweight)
    • Junior Tafa vs. Tuco Toccos (heavyweight)
    • Azamat Bekoev vs. Ryan Loder (middleweight)
  • Stipe Miocic Names 2 ‘Most Satisfying’ Knockouts From His UFC Career

    Stipe Miocic Names 2 ‘Most Satisfying’ Knockouts From His UFC Career

    Stipe Miocic recently named the knockout wins he took the most pride in during his UFC career.

    Miocic is widely considered the greatest heavyweight in UFC history, holding the division’s records for consecutive (three) and total (four) title defenses — each earned against top-tier competition.

    The 42-year-old Ohio native fell short in his quest for a third heavyweight title reign, suffering a decisive knockout loss to champion Jon Jones at UFC 309 last November. Following the defeat, he officially announced his retirement from the sport.

    Although the UFC veteran didn’t deliver his best performance in his final fight, his legacy in the heavyweight division remains undeniable. With victories over elite names like Alistair Overeem, Junior dos Santos, and Francis Ngannou, Miocic built a résumé that speaks for itself.

    He retired with an impressive 20-5 record, including 14 knockouts — yet two stand out as his personal favorites.

    During a recent interview with BIGPLAY Sports Network, Stipe Miocic was asked about the “most satisfying” knockouts of his career. While he holds all of his finishes in high regard, the former UFC heavyweight champion said that his first-round KO to dethrone Fabricio Werdum at UFC 198 in May 2016, in front of a hostile Brazilian crowd, was one of the greatest moments of his career.

    “When I won the title in Brazil,” Stipe Miocic said. “Because there were, you know, like 45,000 people in there, and 44,990 were Brazilians speaking Portuguese, telling me I’m going to die. I had 15 family and friends there, and then I hit him, and he went out. I was hearing, ‘Yay, a new champion,’ and it was so annoying because, like, it was quiet, it was awkward, but it was great.”

    Stipe Miocic also called his first-round knockout of Overeem at UFC 203 in September 2016 one of his most iconic moments, as he defended his title in front of a roaring hometown crowd in Cleveland.

    “Of course, the one here in Cleveland was awesome too… It’s funny, I talk about anxiety — I don’t get anxiety much — and during that fight, walking out with everyone screaming your name, it was surreal. People dream about that stuff, and I get goosebumps thinking about it now. I couldn’t catch my breath. I was fighting, and I thought, ‘This is not good. What do I do?’ Then [Overeem] popped me and dropped me, and I was like, ‘I’m good now. Reset, let’s do this.’ Then I got on top and finished him off, and I was like, ‘Thank God, it could have been way worse.’”

  • Johnny Walker’s UFC Return Set To Come Against Undefeated Russian On May 17

    UFC light heavyweight contender Johnny Walker will look to get back on track when he returns to action on May 17.

    After having his plans for fight against Bogdan Guskov at UFC 311 this past January scuppered by injury, the Brazilian veteran’s layoff is approaching nine months.

    But per MMA Junkie, Walker (21-9, 1 NC) won’t have too much longer to wait, with the 32-year-old set to face the undefeated Azamat Murzakanov (14-0) at the UFC Fight Night event on May 17.

    For the #10-ranked Johnny Walker, the bout will mark his latest opportunity at recording a first win since he defeated Anthony Smith in May 2023. The Brazilian has since gone winless across three fights, with a no contest against Magomed Ankalaev followed by two brutal knockouts versus the Dagestani in their rematch and Volkan Oezdemir.

    Azamat Murzakanov, meanwhile, had his first fight in 16 months last August. The Russia reminded the division of his presence with a vicious KO victory over Alonzo Menifield to extend his UFC record to 4-0 and rise to #12 in the rankings.

    With this addition, the current fights expected to take place at the UFC Fight Night on May 17 are as follows:

    • Curtis Blaydes vs. Rizvan Kuniev (heavyweight)
    • Johnny Walker vs. Azamat Murzakanov (light heavyweight)
    • Serghei Spivac vs. Shamil Gaziev (heavyweight)
    • JunYong Park vs. Ismail Naurdiev (middleweight)
    • Mohammed Usman vs. Hamdy Abdelwahab (heavyweight)
  • Conor McGregor Snubs UFC When Naming ‘Best Heavyweight Division In Combat Sports’

    Conor McGregor Snubs UFC When Naming ‘Best Heavyweight Division In Combat Sports’

    Jon Jones and the rest of the UFC’s heavyweight division may need to take notice, as the promotion has been snubbed by one of its biggest box office attractions — Conor McGregor.

    The former two-division UFC champion recently praised Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship’s (BKFC) heavyweight division, drawing attention to its growing roster.

    On Tuesday, the BKFC confirmed that Kenzie “TCB” Morrison, son of the late Tommy Morrison, had officially signed with the organization. Morrison, who boasts a knockout record of 20 wins in 22 fights, joins BKFC after a successful boxing career.

    His signing has drawn praise from the promotion’s part-owner, Conor McGregor, who took to X to celebrate BKFC’s heavyweight division, calling it “the best” in all of combat sports in response to BKFC’s claim that things were “getting interesting.”

    BKFC founder Dave Feldman has called Morrison an “enormous addition” to their stacked heavyweight division. The date and location of his debut fight are yet to be announced.

    Tommy Morrison, best known for his 1993 WBO heavyweight title victory over George Foreman and his role as “Tommy Gunn” in Rocky V, passed away in September 2013 at the age of 44.

  • Renato Moicano Sends Supportive Message To Retiring Former Opponent Jalin Turner

    Renato Moicano Sends Supportive Message To Retiring Former Opponent Jalin Turner

    Longtime UFC lightweight contender Jalin Turner has officially called time on his career, and a former opponent of his has emerged among the prominent names sending congratulatory messages.

    Turner announced his shock retirement at the age of just 29 moments after his latest setback inside the Octagon this past weekend.

    Returning to the cage at UFC 313 for the first time since a crushing loss to Renato Moicano last April, “The Tarantula” was quickly submitted by up-and-coming prospect Ignacio Bahamondes.

    After removing his gloves, Turner informed reporters cageside that his time competing on MMA’s biggest stage was over. And a few days later, the American officially confirmed his decision to retire in a heartfelt social media post.

    Turner has since received plenty of supportive messages, with one of the most recent coming from Moicano.

    “One of the dangerous mdfker in the game! Congrats on your (career)! I wish you all the best and enjoy life,” Moicano wrote on X.

    While explaining his decision to hang up the gloves, Jalin Turner admitted he’d been pondering an exit from MMA in the months on from his knockout loss to “Money” Moicano at UFC 300.

    “The Tarantula’s” career has concluded after a 7-6 run in the UFC, during which he defeated the likes of Brad Riddell and King Green.

  • Jan Błachowicz Outlines Goal Of Thwarting Alex Pereira’s Plan For Ankalaev Rematch

    Jan Błachowicz Outlines Goal Of Thwarting Alex Pereira’s Plan For Ankalaev Rematch

    Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jan Błachowicz plans to alter the expected direction of his division’s title picture — and the expected future of Alex Pereira.

    The 205-pound weight class received a shake-up this past weekend when Magomed Ankalaev ended the reign of Pereira, which had successfully moved through three challenges before running into the Dagestani at UFC 313.

    Following his lackluster performance en route to a unanimous decision defeat, “Poatan” has echoed the sentiments of Dana White in suggesting that an immediate rematch is likely for later this year.

    But a former opponent of Pereira’s plans to scupper such plans.

    During an appearance on Wednesday’s episode of The Ariel Helwani Show on Uncrowned, Błachowicz outlined his goal of securing a rematch with Ankalaev for the gold by making a statement in his return against Carlos Ulberg next weekend in London.

    “I beat (Ulberg), then I take a title shot against (Ankalaev),” Błachowicz said. “I beat Ankalaev and then rematch against (Pereira). I defend the belt against Pereira. This is the perfect scenario for me. Then I can go to the mountains again.”

    Following a draw in his battle with Ankalaev for the then-vacant title in late 2022, Jan Błachowicz welcomed Alex Pereira to the light heavyweight division in mid-2023.

    The Polish veteran fell on the wrong side of a split decision after an incredibly close three-round clash. He’s since been looking toward a chance for redemption against Pereira, and he intends to reach that as a two-time champion at 205 pounds.

  • Tsarukyan Hits Back At Justin Gaethje’s Title Plea: ‘You Barely Got Past #11 On Short Notice’

    Tsarukyan Hits Back At Justin Gaethje’s Title Plea: ‘You Barely Got Past #11 On Short Notice’

    UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan evidently wasn’t impressed by Justin Gaethje’s performance this past weekend — and decision to call for a title shot off the back of it.

    Gaethje bounced back from his brutal knockout loss to Max Holloway in his return to action Saturday night. “The Highlight” co-headlined the UFC 313 pay-per-view in a rematch against Rafael Fiziev.

    While “Ataman” performed valiantly on short notice, he once again fell short to Gaethje on the scorecards, having suffered the same fate in London back in 2023.

    As the Azerbaijani contemplates a move down to the featherweight division, the American fan favorite was quick to stake his claim for a third crack at achieving undisputed lightweight glory on MMA’s biggest stage. But Tsarukyan, the top contender at 155 pounds, firmly disagrees with “The Highlight’s” recent demand to UFC CEO Dana White.

    In a social media post Wednesday, the Russian-Armenian categorically dismissed any suggestion that Justin Gaethje deserves the next shot at Islam Makhachev’s gold.

    “You barely got past #11 on short notice, and before that, you got sent to the shadow realm,” Tsarukyan wrote on X. “If you really want to be the #1 contender and fight for the belt, you have to go through me first.”

    Unfortunately for Tsarukyan, it would appear that Gaethje might have the support of UFC higher-ups when it comes to his ongoing title ambitions, with White stating backstage at UFC 313 that there’s a “good chance” the American receives another title shot.

  • ‘It’s Not The Same Anymore’ – Anthony Smith Opens Up About Retirement Decision

    ‘It’s Not The Same Anymore’ – Anthony Smith Opens Up About Retirement Decision

    Anthony Smith is set to walk away from professional fighting after his upcoming bout on April 26 in Kansas City. The longtime UFC light heavyweight opened up about his decision in a recent interview with Damon Martin for MMA Fighting, revealing that the passing of his longtime coach and friend, Scott “Scotty” Morton, played a major role in making retirement an easier choice.

    “Retiring now is easy because I’m leaving something that doesn’t feel normal anyways,” Smith said. “A lot of it is just uncomfortable, and it’s different, and you don’t know what to do without it.

    This thing is different for me now. It’s not the same. The whole process feels different. And it’s not even just fighting—my everyday life is different with him gone.”

    Smith admitted he had been contemplating retirement for a while, but he kept pushing it back. “I kept saying three or four more, and then, you know, that three or four just kept getting pushed back,” he said. However, as the demands of training and fight preparation continued to take time away from his family, Smith realized he was ready to move on.

    “I love the fight part of it—there’s nothing I enjoy more than walking into the Octagon and fighting,” he explained.

    “But it’s everything that surrounds it that I’m not willing to do anymore. The media, the travel, the being away from my family, living in hotel rooms—I’m just not as willing to do that anymore.”

    Despite stepping away from competition, Smith will remain a fixture in MMA through his work as an analyst.

    “I want to spend the rest of my life doing what I want to do, not what I have to do,” he said. “I got lucky—so many fighters don’t have a plan for life after fighting.”

    Smith’s final fight against Zhang Mingyang at UFC Kansas City will mark the end of an era—but for him, it already feels like he’s left the old life behind.

  • Eddie Hearn Facing Exit? DiBella Predicts Boxing’s Biggest Promoter Might Walk Away

    Eddie Hearn Facing Exit? DiBella Predicts Boxing’s Biggest Promoter Might Walk Away

    Eddie Hearn has been one of the most dominant figures in boxing for years, but his future in the sport is now uncertain. According to longtime promoter Lou DiBella, the shift in power toward Turki Alalshikh and Dana White’s TKO Group could push Hearn into early retirement.

    Speaking on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, DiBella didn’t mince words when discussing how the new power structure affects Hearn’s position.

    “Eddie doesn’t want to be number two or three or four,” DiBella said. “When Eddie came to America with the DAZN money, he was going to create a UFC. He was going to become the UFC.

    He was going to take over boxing. Well, guess what? He went back to England with his tail between his legs. And as much money as he’s made, as much success as he’s had, he didn’t take over shit.”

    DiBella pointed to Hearn’s recent interviews, in which the Matchroom boss has given mixed signals about his future.

    “In one interview, he’s talking about retirement. In another interview, he’s saying, ‘I’m the best in the world.’ That tells me he’s thinking about what’s next. And I get it—on a human level, I totally get it.

    Because in my mind and in my heart, I’ve been in a process of sort of disengaging from boxing for a while. And Eddie doesn’t want to do anything where he’s not the biggest and the best.”

    Hearn has also insisted that boxing isn’t broken, something DiBella strongly disagrees with.

    “Eddie’s going out there saying, ‘What I take issue with is people saying boxing is broken.’ Go fuck yourself, Ed. You know it’s broken. The only reason you’re saying it’s not broken is because the broken system made you rich.”

    With Turki and TKO taking full control of boxing’s biggest fights, DiBella believes Hearn will have to make a choice: adapt to a secondary role or step away entirely.

    “Eddie’s a talented guy, and he’s rich as hell. He doesn’t have to do this. And if he can’t be the dominant figure in boxing, I don’t think he’s going to stick around just to be part of the furniture.

    He’s got his hands in a lot of other sports, he’s got other things he can do, and if he decides to walk away, I wouldn’t be surprised at all.”

  • Arman Tsarukyan Breaks Down ’50-50′ Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight

    Arman Tsarukyan Breaks Down ’50-50′ Makhachev vs. Topuria Fight

    The lightweight division is buzzing with excitement as Islam Makhachev holds the championship, with several contenders eager for a title shot. Amid this competitive landscape, Arman Tsarukyan has shared his thoughts on a potential showdown between Makhachev and former featherweight champion Ilia Topuria.

    Tsarukyan, who was originally slated to challenge Makhachev at UFC 311 before a back injury forced him out, brings a unique perspective to the discussion. Weighing in on the potential matchup, he sees it as a close contest, acknowledging Topuria’s striking prowess while questioning his ability to withstand Makhachev’s relentless grappling.

    “It’s a tough fight,” Arman Tsarukyan told The Schmo. “Ilia, he is a better striker; good boxing. I don’t know—like, he’s never fought with guys who can wrestle very well like Islam, so we will see. It is a 50-50 fight.”

    The intrigue of this matchup lies in the stylistic clash between Topuria’s striking power and Makhachev’s elite grappling. While Topuria’s boxing has been a dominant weapon, Makhachev’s wrestling follows the well-established blueprint of Khabib Nurmagomedov. Having faced Makhachev himself, Tsarukyan offers valuable insight into the champion’s approach, making his analysis all the more compelling.

  • Boxing’s New World Order: Why Dana White & Turki Alalshikh Will Dominate The Sport

    Boxing’s New World Order: Why Dana White & Turki Alalshikh Will Dominate The Sport

    Boxing is on the verge of a massive power shift, and longtime promoter Lou DiBella believes it’s inevitable.

    Speaking on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani, DiBella laid out why the traditional boxing structure is crumbling and why Turki Alalshikh, Dana White, and TKO Group will take full control.

    “The major promoters have been middlemen for the last couple of years,” DiBella said.

    “And right now, make no mistake about it, the major promoters have been middlemen for the last couple of years. Because let me ask you a question—who’s been the most major promoter in boxing over the past couple years? It’s not Eddie Hearn. It’s not Bob Arum. It’s Turki. And he didn’t just take control overnight. This was the plan all along.”

    A Transformative Era in Boxing

    With Saudi Arabia’s vast financial backing and the UFC-WWE business model, DiBella sees the transition as inevitable. He pointed out that promoters like Eddie Hearn and Bob Arum have fought to keep boxing fragmented, but that structure is now collapsing.

    “The other promoters have never been willing to work with each other. They’ve been stuck in their old ways, just trying to squeeze money out of the system instead of making it better.

    “Meanwhile, Turki came in, paid them all, took control of their fighters, and now he’s moved on to working with Dana and TKO. They’re the biggest promoter in the business now—there’s no question.”

    DiBella also emphasized how the UFC model—where one promotion controls matchmaking, fighter contracts, and title belts—will change boxing forever.

    “People keep talking about a ‘league’ like it’s something different. It’s not a league—it’s a promotion. But it’s a promotion in the UFC-WWE sense, which can work. It’s not boxing as we know it, where every man is out for himself and nobody gives a shit about the sport’s future.”

    He made it clear that boxing’s old guard is on borrowed time.

    “If they want this to work, they don’t have to worry about putting people out of business—it’s going to happen naturally. They’re not going to shut down the WBC, WBA, IBF, or WBO overnight, but they don’t have to.

    “The sport is shifting in a way where those organizations won’t matter anymore. The promoters that took all of Turki’s money didn’t realize they were feeding the guy who was going to eat them.”

    With the newly formed TKO boxing entity backed by Saudi funding, it seems the sport is heading toward an era of centralized control—whether the old promoters like it or not.

  • Chris Eubank Jr. Fined £100,000 For Egg Incident Ahead Of Conor Benn Fight

    Chris Eubank Jr. Fined £100,000 For Egg Incident Ahead Of Conor Benn Fight

    Chris Eubank Jr. has been fined £100,000 by the British Boxing Board of Control (BBBofC) for slapping Conor Benn with an egg during a press conference. The altercation, which took place last month in Manchester, further escalated tensions ahead of their highly anticipated bout on April 26 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

    The incident referenced Benn’s failed drug tests in 2022, which were later attributed to excessive egg consumption. During the press conference, Eubank Jr. produced an egg and slapped it against Benn’s face, leading to a brief scuffle between both fighters’ teams.

    The BBBofC ruled Eubank Jr.’s actions as misconduct, resulting in the substantial fine. However, the boxer later posted on social media, stating that the fine was “worth every penny.”

    The upcoming fight between Eubank Jr. and Benn carries significant historical weight, as both are the sons of legendary world champions Chris Eubank Sr. and Nigel Benn. Their fathers’ storied rivalry in the 1990s adds further intensity to this long-awaited matchup.

    Originally scheduled for October 2022, the fight was postponed due to Benn’s failed drug tests. Now with both fighters cleared to compete, anticipation is high for their long-overdue clash.

  • PFL Unveils First-Round Matchups For 2025 World Tournament

    PFL Unveils First-Round Matchups For 2025 World Tournament

    The brackets for eight inaugural PFL World Tournaments in 2025 are set.

    After ditching its season and playoff format this year, the Professional Fighters League will kick off a new era next month with the launch of its inaugural World Tournaments.

    The Grand Prix-style structure will see eight fighters in each weight class compete in a single elimination format, culminating in championship finals worth $500,000 for the winners.

    Having completed its rollout of the eight divisional rosters last week, the PFL staged a bracket reveal show on Tuesday to unveil the first-round matchups set to play out across four events in the coming weeks.

    For those bouts, including returns for the likes of Jason Jackson, Jesus Pinedo, Taila Santos, Liz Carmouche, and Alexandr Romanov, see the schedule below.

    2025 PFL World Tournament 1: First Round – April 3

    Main Card (ESPN2/ESPN+, 10 PM ET):

    • Welterweight First Round: Jason Jackson (18-5) vs. Andrey Koreshkov (28-5)
    • Featherweight First Round: Jesus Pinedo (23-6) vs. Adam Borics (19-2)
    • Welterweight First Round: Magomed Umalatov (17-1)vs. Logan Storley (16-3)
    • Featherweight First Round: Jeremy Kennedy (19-4) vs. Movlid Khaybulaev (21-0-1)

    Early Card (ESPN+, 7 PM ET):

    • Welterweight First Round: Mukhamed Berkhamov (17-2) vs. Florim Zendeli (10-1-1) 
    • Featherweight First Round: Gabriel Braga (15-2) vs. Yves Landu (21-9) 
    • Welterweight First Round: Giannis Bachar (9-2) vs. Masayuki Kikuiri (10-2-1)
    • Featherweight First Round: Nathan Kelly (11-3) vs. Taekyun Kim (10-1)
    • Welterweight Alternate: Joseph Luciano (10-2) vs. Thad Jean (8-0)
    • Featherweight Alternate: Fred Dupras (8-1) vs. Nathan Ghareeb (10-3)

    2025 PFL World Tournament 2: First Round – April 11

    Main Card (ESPN2/ESPN+, 11 PM ET):

    • Bantamweight First Round: Magomed Magomedov (20-3) vs. Leandro Higo (23-6)
    • Women’s Flyweight First Round: Taila Santos (24-4) vs. Juliana Velasquez (13-3)
    • Bantamweight First Round: Savarjon Khamidov (16-0) vs. Jake Hadley (11-4)
    • Bantamweight First Round: Ciaran Clarke (10-0) vs. Kasum Kasumov (16-1) 

    Early Card (ESPN+, 8 PM ET):

    • Women’s Flyweight First Round: Liz Carmouche (22-8) vs. Ilara Joanna (12-9)
    • Bantamweight First Round: Ali Taleb (11-1) vs. Zebenzui Ruiz (12-3) 
    • Women’s Flyweight First Round: Kana Watanabe (13-3-1) vs. Jena Bishop (7-2) 
    • Women’s Flyweight First Round: Elora Dana (7-0) vs. Diana Avsaragova (6-1)
    • Bantamweight Alternate: Francesco Nuzzi (10-1) vs. Matheus Mattos (14-3-1)
    • Women’s Flyweight Alternate: Ekaterina Shakalova (8-2) vs. Saray Orozco (8-6) 

    2025 PFL World Tournament 3: First Round – April 18

    Main Card (ESPN/ESPN+, 7 PM ET):

    • Middleweight First Round: Impa Kasanganay (18-5) vs. Fabian Edwards (13-4) 
    • Lightweight First Round: Alexander Shabliy (24-4) vs. Brent Primus (15-4-0, 1 NC)
    • Lightweight First Round: Gadzhi Rabadanov (24-4-2) vs. Marc Diakiese (18-7) 
    • Lightweight First Round: Mads Burnell (20-6) vs. Jay-Jay Wilson (10-1)

    Early Card (ESPN+, 4:30 PM ET):

    • Middleweight First Round: Sadibou Sy (17-8-2, 1 NC ) vs. Dalton Rosta (9-1)
    • Middleweight First Round: Josh Silveira (13-4) vs. Mike Shipman (17-4)
    • Lightweight First Round: Clay Collard (25-14) vs. Alfie Davis (17-4-1) 
    • Middleweight First Round: Aaron Jeffery (15-5) vs. Murad Ramazanov (12-2)
    • Middleweight Alternate: Khalid Murtazaliev (17-3) vs. Jordan Newman (7-0)
    • Lightweight Alternate: Sergio Cossio (27-10-1) vs. Robert Watley (15-3)

    2025 PFL World Tournament 4: First Round – May 1

    Main Card (ESPN2/ESPN+, 10 PM ET):

    • Light Heavyweight First Round: Phil Davis (24-7, 1 NC) vs. Rob Wilkinson (19-3,1 NC) 
    • Heavyweight First Round: Valentin Moldavsky (13-4) vs. Sergey Bilostenniy (13-3) 
    • Light Heavyweight First Round: Antonio Carlos Jr. (16-6, 2 NC) vs. Karl Moore (12-3)
    • Light Heavyweight First Round: Karl Albrektsson (14-6) vs. Simeon Powell (10-1) 

    Early Card (ESPN+, 7 PM ET):

    • Heavyweight First Round: Alexandr Romanov (18-3) vs. Tim Johnson (18-11) 
    • Heavyweight First Round: Linton Vassell (25-10) vs. Oleg Popov (19-1) 
    • Light Heavyweight First Round: Sullivan Cauley (6-1) vs. Marcelo Nunes (11-2) 
    • Heavyweight First Round: Pouya Rahmani (4-0) vs. Abraham Bably (5-1) 
    • Light Heavyweight Alternate: Alex Polizzi (11-4) vs. Rafael Xavier (13-8) 
  • Paul Hughes’ Opponent For PFL Belfast Homecoming Revealed

    Paul Hughes’ Opponent For PFL Belfast Homecoming Revealed

    PFL star Paul Hughes now has a target in his sights for later this year.

    Hughes (13-2) boosted his stock despite a loss in January when he battled Usman Nurmagomedov for the Bellator lightweight title in the main event of PFL Champions Series: Road to Dubai.

    While he was largely dismissed by the Russian standout during the build-up, “Big News” pushed him to the limit across five rounds. Some even maintain that the ex-Cage Warriors champion did enough to deserve the victory, a sentiment shared by Hughes himself.

    With that in mind, the Northern Irishman was quick to call for an immediate rematch in his native country, and he appeared to have the backing of the PFL higher-ups and many in the community.

    But with Nurmagomedov seemingly planning to sit out until September or October, Hughes has had to settle for just half of his callout coming to fruition.

    After much speculation, the PFL officially confirmed this week that Paul Hughes will headline a PFL Europe event in his country’s capital city, Belfast, on May 10.

    And an opponent has now been attached to Hughes’ return, with “Big News” lined up to share the cage with Bruno Miranda (17-5), a former PFL semifinalist who most recently defeated Patricky Pitbull.

    Paul Hughes will look to return to winning ways at Miranda’s expense and stake his claim for a second showdown with Nurmagomedov before the year’s end.

  • Curtis Blaydes’ Return Gets New Date After Fight-Day UFC 313 Cancellation

    Curtis Blaydes’ Return Gets New Date After Fight-Day UFC 313 Cancellation

    UFC heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes and newcomer Rizvan Kuniev will hope it’s second time lucky later this year when it comes to their matchup reaching the Octagon.

    The mixed martial arts leader staged its third numbered card of 2025 this past weekend, with UFC 313 going down from inside Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena. Fight week went smoothly and saw all 24 athletes make weight, but fight day saw the card take some hits.

    After John Castañeda was confirmed to be out of his early preliminary contest with Chris Gutierrez, illness struck a more notable pairing. Former interim heavyweight title challenger Curtis Blaydes pulled out of the UFC 313 featured prelim, which was set to see him welcome newcomer Rizvan Kuniev to the Octagon.

    In a post on his Facebook page, “Razor” revealed the reason behind his late decision not to compete.

    “Last night I got sick with norovirus,” Blaydes wrote. “Worked through the night to try and recover but my body wouldn’t cooperate. Fight going to be booked for a later date. Apologize to fans and my opponent be we will have this fight very soon.”

    Fortunately for both men, it hasn’t taken long for the UFC to reschedule the clash for down the line.

    Per Vestnik MMA, Blaydes will now face the Dagestani debutant at the promotion’s first event in Qatar on May 17. The report was later corroborated by Eurosport Nederland’s Marcel Dorff.

    Curtis Blaydes hasn’t competed since a first-round knockout loss to Tom Aspinall in what marked his first title fight on MMA’s biggest stage last July.

    Rizvan Kuniev, meanwhile, last fought in August 2024 when he earned a contract on Dana White’s Contender Series.

  • Justin Gaethje Demands Title Shot From Dana White After UFC 313

    Justin Gaethje Demands Title Shot From Dana White After UFC 313

    Justin Gaethje is campaigning for what could be his final shot at the undisputed UFC lightweight title.

    After nearly a year away from the Octagon, Gaethje made his highly anticipated return last Saturday, accepting a short-notice rematch against Rafael Fiziev in the UFC 313 co-main event. He battled through adversity to earn a unanimous decision victory over “Ataman.”

    Back in the win column, “The Highlight” rebounded from his heartbreaking last-second knockout loss to Max Holloway for the BMF title at UFC 300 in April. The former interim UFC 155-pound champion confidently maintained that defeating Fiziev could put him right back in the title conversation.

    On Tuesday, Gaethje took to social media to make his case for a third crack at the undisputed gold, urging UFC CEO Dana White to grant him the opportunity. He argued that his setback to “Blessed” shouldn’t stand in the way of his championship ambitions.

    “I won 3 out of my last 4, only losing in an exhibition fight. I have to fight for the belt. @danawhite I am ready,” Justin Gaethje wrote.

    The 36-year-old Arizona native has come up short in two previous title bids, falling to Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 254 in October 2020 and Charles Oliveira at UFC 274 in May 2022. Undeterred, Justin Gaethje has long set his sights on a showdown with reigning lightweight champion Islam Makhachev.

    Interestingly, at the UFC 313 post-fight press conference, White subtly signaled his approval of “The Highlight” jumping ahead of Arman Tsarukyan and Oliveira in the race for a potential clash with Makhachev.

  • Rafael Fiziev Pondering Major Career Change After UFC 313 Defeat

    Rafael Fiziev Pondering Major Career Change After UFC 313 Defeat

    Rafael Fiziev could be bidding the lightweight division farewell following his latest setback at UFC 313.

    Fiziev returned to action at this past weekend’s pay-per-view event in Las Vegas 18 months on from tearing his ACL in an Apex headliner versus Mateusz Gamrot.

    “Ataman” stepped in on short notice to replace the injured Dan Hooker opposite Justin Gaethje, marking the second time that Fiziev has shared the cage with “The Highlight.”

    Just like first time around in London, the Azerbaijani performed valiantly but was unable to do enough to secure victory on the scorecards. And a second defeat to Gaethje and third overall has left Fiziev assessing his future.

    During an appearance on Tuesday’s episode of The Ariel Helwani Show on Uncrowned, Fiziev suggested that a drop down to the featherweight division could mark his next step on MMA’s biggest stage.

    “I’m (starting) to think right now about changing weight divisions because I cut weight very easy this time, and this was short notice,” Rafael Fiziev said. “All this week, my nutritionist, he tried to gain my weight because my weight go low so fast. Right now, I have to think about it.

    “I’ve been thinking about it a long time. Like I say, I am not big in this division,” Fiziev continued. “These guys have trouble if I come there. They’ll be in trouble, man, everybody.”

    Should Rafael Fiziev commit to that change, he’d depart the 155-pound weight class as its #11-ranked contender. Prior to running into Gaethje, “Ataman” had won six straight fights, including over Renato Moicano, King Green, and Rafael dos Anjos.

  • KSI Warns Tony Ferguson: Danis Fight Will Be ‘Dead’ After Damage From Boxing Match

    KSI Warns Tony Ferguson: Danis Fight Will Be ‘Dead’ After Damage From Boxing Match

    KSI warns that by the time he’s done with Dillon Danis, there won’t be much left of him for Tony Ferguson to fight.

    For context, KSI is set to square off against Danis in a 185-pound grudge match in the main event of Misfits Boxing 21 on March 29 at the AO Arena in Manchester, England.

    However, following his sophomore appearance in the boxing ring, “El Jefe” is booked to compete against former UFC interim lightweight champion Ferguson under the banner of the newly launched MMA promotion, Global Fight League (GFL), with the bout tentatively scheduled for May 11.

    On Tuesday, the YouTuber-turned-influencer boxer, who has a long-standing feud with Danis, took to X to issue a chilling message just two weeks ahead of their showdown. His words weren’t just aimed at Danis as they also carried a veiled shot at Ferguson, with “The Nightmare” vowing to punish Danis so brutally that his anticipated MMA return would become an afterthought.

    “I don’t think people understand what I’m about to do to Danis. His fight with Ferguson will be dead. His UFC dreams will be dead. His career in combat sports will finally be dead,” KSI wrote on X.

    KSI and Danis were originally set to face off in January 2023, but “El Jefe” pulled out just a week before fight night without offering a clear explanation. His last-minute withdrawal only added fuel to their already heated rivalry, as they have traded barbs on social media on several occasions.

    “The Nightmare” was last seen in action in October 2023, headlining the MF & DAZN: X Series 10 – PRIME Card against Tommy Fury, where he suffered a controversial unanimous decision loss.

    Meanwhile, Danis made his boxing debut on the same card, taking on KSI’s former adversary and now collaborator, Logan Paul. But the bout took a wild turn when the outspoken MMA fighter attempted to lock “The Maverick” in a chokehold, resulting in his disqualification in the sixth round.

  • BJ Penn Video Alleging Government Killed His Mother Alarms MMA Fans

    BJ Penn Video Alleging Government Killed His Mother Alarms MMA Fans

    Former UFC champion BJ Penn has shared a troubling Instagram video in which he alleges that the government murdered his mother and replaced her with a lookalike impostor.

    The 46-year-old former fighter, who previously held titles in both the lightweight and welterweight divisions, made the shocking claim while pointing at a woman he insists is not his real mother.

    “This lady right here, look at her a** and legs,” Penn says in the video. “She is acting like my 79-year-old mother, but she is not my 79-year-old mother. She’s trying to steal everything and this is not my mother. And I’m putting this out because she’s saying she’s going to get an attorney and try to do something. She’s trying to throw me out and if I attack her, she’ll try to do something, TRO [temporary restraining order] or something else.”

    Penn also took to social media with a post accusing a man named Paul Abiley—whom he also refers to as Carlos Riveira—of being involved in the alleged conspiracy with government help.

    The former fighter’s claims have sparked concern among fans, many of whom have urged him to seek professional help.

    Penn, who retired from MMA in 2019 following a seven-fight losing streak, has remained in the public eye for various controversies. In 2022, he ran for governor of Hawaii but failed to secure the Republican primary nomination.

    Penn has not responded to the widespread concern regarding his latest statements.

  • UFC Commentator ‘Pissed Off’ By Alex Pereira’s ‘Lazy’ UFC 313 Performance

    UFC Commentator ‘Pissed Off’ By Alex Pereira’s ‘Lazy’ UFC 313 Performance

    Alex Pereira’s ascent to light heavyweight dominance — marked by five straight wins, four knockout title fights, and victories over former champions — had built an aura of invincibility.

    At UFC 313, however, Magomed Ankalaev dismantled that perception, ending Pereira’s reign in a decisive five-round encounter.

    While the fight remained competitive, Pereira appeared uncharacteristically passive, often yielding ground to Ankalaev’s relentless pressure and cage control.

    UFC color commentator Michael Bisping discussed Pereira’s performance on the Believe You Me podcast, with fellow analyst Paul Felder voicing strong criticism. “The Irish Dragon” called out Pereira for what he perceived as a lack of urgency.

    “He never really opened up,” Felder said of Alex Pereira. “I was getting — I don’t wanna say mad, I’m not his coach, I’m not a training partner — but as a fan of the guy and somebody that I like to see perform, I was p*ssed off, dude.

    “I agree that it was a bit lazy and one-sided on his part for a guy that’s got dynamite and apparently rocks in those hands,” Felder continued. “He never let them go. That’s just lazy.”

  • Arman Tsarukyan Sends Justin Gaethje Reality Check About UFC Title Hopes

    Arman Tsarukyan Sends Justin Gaethje Reality Check About UFC Title Hopes

    When it comes to Justin Gaethje’s hopes to secure a third crack at the undisputed UFC lightweight title, Arman Tsarukyan has told him to hold his horses.

    Gaethje placed his name back into the championship conversation at 155 pounds this past weekend by emerging victorious from the UFC 313 co-main event.

    “The Highlight” ran it back with Rafael Fiziev at the pay-per-view after original opponent Dan Hooker withdrew due to a broken hand. And for the second time in under three years, the American exited the cage a decision winner over “Ataman.”

    In the aftermath, Gaethje outlined his hopes to challenge Islam Makhachev down the line. That ambition received a sizable boost during Dana White’s post-fight press conference, with the UFC CEO suggesting the ex-interim champ has a “good chance” of another title shot.

    During a recent interview with The Schmo, however, Tsarukyan insisted that “The Highlight” must go through either him or former titleholder Charles Oliveira first.

    “It’s Gaethje or Oliveira,” Arman Tsarukyan said of his next opponent. “Gaethje wants to fight for the title. It makes sense to fight with me, because nobody’s going to give him (the) title fight. It’s not going to be fair that he’s going to get (the) title fight. So he’s got to beat me or Oliveira to get a title fight. There is Ilia (Topuria) too. … I’m open to everybody from (the) top five.”

    Tsarukyan has been left needing to record another victory over a top contender despite entering the year with a first title shot bagged.

    A late pullout from January’s UFC 311 event saw him lose out on the opportunity, leaving the next step for Makhachev uncertain after he dispatched of late-notice replacement Renato Moicano in Los Angeles.

  • Matt Brown: UFC ‘Overplayed Their Cards’ With Alex Pereira Hype

    Matt Brown: UFC ‘Overplayed Their Cards’ With Alex Pereira Hype

    Alex Pereira’s light heavyweight journey, marked by five consecutive wins, four title fight knockouts, and victories over multiple former champions, had elevated him to another-level status. However, at UFC 313, Magomed Ankalaev ended the Brazilian’s reign, outpointing him in a five-round main event.

    Despite the competitive nature of the fight, Pereira appeared hesitant at times, spending much of the bout under Ankalaev’s pressure and control. The Dagestani strategically avoided takedowns while maintaining control, exposing vulnerabilities in “Poatan’s” previously impenetrable aura at 205 pounds.

    While the loss is a setback, it doesn’t mean Alex Pereira has been fully figured out. Instead, Ankalaev’s calculated approach highlighted areas for the former champion to address, suggesting that his story is far from over.

    “I don’t think exposed is the right word, but I think it humanized him,” UFC legend Matt Brown said of Alex Pereira on the latest episode of MMA Fighting’s The Fighter vs. The Writer. “Because he was living off all this hype. The UFC is masterful at hyping guys up. I think all of us — it’s hard for anybody, even astute followers of the game like me or you or fighters that understand all the intricacies — it’s hard for us to ignore the amount of hype people put into him. They do this all the time.

    “They did it with Conor [McGregor], they did it with Ronda [Rousey], they do it with Alex. It’s a constant thing. Jon Jones is the only guy that’s kind of lived up to that, and I say kind of because he lost to [Dominick] Reyes. He had some close fights, but he’s kind of the only guy who really just lived up to that hype and not lost,” Brown continued. “(Alex Pereira’s) still a great fighter. He’s still everything we thought he was, but the UFC kind of overplayed their cards.”

    Pereira’s rapid rise through the light heavyweight division has sometimes overshadowed the challenges he faced earlier in his UFC tenure.

    While he has been dominant in his title fights at 205 pounds, his knockout loss to Israel Adesanya before moving up in weight serves as a reminder of his past struggles.

  • ESPN’s Technical Issues For UFC 313 ‘On Purpose’, Claims Former Fighter

    UFC 313 experienced significant technical issues with ESPN+’s streaming service, which caused widespread frustration among fans and reportedly angered UFC leadership. The problems were particularly disruptive at the start of the main card.

    ESPN acknowledged a “technical issue” that affected PPV purchases and later offered a free event replay for ESPN+ subscribers. UFC CEO Dana White also addressed the situation, noting that there were “a lot of pissed-off people.”

    Former UFC fighter Brendan Schaub weighed in on the controversy during the latest episode of The Schaub Show, suggesting that the disruption may have been intentional.

    “Big Brown” pointed to ongoing negotiations between ESPN and the MMA leader over media rights as a possible motive, arguing that ESPN could use the issue as leverage in talks.

    “The whole ESPN+ PPV not working — they’re in negotiations right now. If you think that wasn’t on purpose, you’re out of your mind,” Schaub said. “That is ESPN, who doesn’t give a flying f*ck about UFC really — they’re in turmoil. But if you don’t think that’s a flex by them — I’ve never had issues.

    “All of a sudden, issues just pop up during negotiation rights? That is somebody going, ‘Oh really, you want to play hardball? This is what your numbers will look like without us.’ That’s what I think with a tinfoil hat on,” Schaub continued. “I’ve never had issues, and all of a sudden, half the f*cking world has issues? That’s weird.