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  • UFC 313: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Full Weigh-In Results

    UFC 313: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Full Weigh-In Results

    UFC 313 takes place tomorrow night, and MMA News is here to bring you the official weigh-in results!

    After staging fights in Los Angeles and Sydney to open its pay-per-view schedule for 2025, the mixed martial arts leader’s next port of call comes close to its home base in Las Vegas.

    One title will be on the line at the top of the card, with Alex Pereira defending his light heavyweight belt against top contender Magomed Ankalaev in the main event. Co-headlining, meanwhile, will be a crucial rematch at 155 pounds between former interim champion Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev.

    Also on the main card will be returns for lightweight contender Jalin Turner, former strawweight title challenger Amanda Lemos, and Fighting Nerds standout Mauricio Ruffy.

    UFC 313 Weigh-In Video, Results

    UFC 313 takes place Saturday, March 8 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The main card begins at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT, with the preliminary card starting at 6:30 PM ET/3:30 PM PT.

    See above for a replay of the UFC 313 Weigh-In Show, and check out the full results below.

    Main Card:

    • Light Heavyweight Championship: Alex Pereira (205lbs) vs. Magomed Ankalaev (205lbs)
    • Lightweight: Justin Gaethje (156lbs) vs. Rafael Fiziev (156lbs)
    • Lightweight: Jalin Turner (154.5lbs) vs. Ignacio Bahamondes (156lbs)
    • Women’s Strawweight: Amanda Lemos (116lbs) vs. Iasmin Lucindo (115.5lbs)
    • Lightweight: King Green (155.5lbs) vs. Mauricio Ruffy (155.5lbs)

    Preliminary Card:

    • Heavyweight: Curtis Blaydes (262lbs) vs. Rizvan Kuniev (264.5lbs)
    • Flyweight: Joshua Van (125.5lbs) vs. Rei Tsuruya (125.5lbs)
    • Middleweight: Brunno Ferreira (186lbs) vs. Armen Petrosyan (186lbs)
    • Welterweight: Alex Morono (171lbs) vs. Carlos Leal (169lbs)

    Early Preliminary Card:

    • Featherweight: Mairon Santos (145.5lbs) vs. Francis Marshall (146lbs)
    • Featherweight: Chris Gutierrez (144.5lbs) vs. John Castañeda (145lbs)
    • Middleweight: Djorden Santos (185.5lbs) vs. Ozzy Diaz (185.5lbs)
  • Ilia Topuria Teases Huge Announcement Fans ‘Won’t Believe’

    Ilia Topuria Teases Huge Announcement Fans ‘Won’t Believe’

    Ilia Topuria appears to have secured a high-profile showdown for his next Octagon outing.

    Last month, Topuria shocked the MMA world by vacating his UFC featherweight title, opting to test himself in the lightweight division in pursuit of becoming a two-division champion.

    As a result, former champion Alexander Volkanovski is set to face Diego Lopes for the vacant title in the UFC 314 main event on April 12 at Miami’s Kaseya Center.

    UFC CEO Dana White announced that “El Matador” opted to compete in a higher weight class, believing he had already dominated the featherweight division while also facing the relentless challenge of cutting down to 145 pounds.

    Despite Topuria’s persistent desire to challenge reigning UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev, his first opponent in the division has yet to be revealed. However, the undefeated Spaniard publicly addressed his fans on Thursday for the first time since vacating his championship and teased that he has an announcement in the works, one he believes will leave his fans utterly amazed.

    “When we announce it, you won’t believe it. Get ready,” Ilia Topuria wrote on X.

    “El Matador” was last seen in action at UFC 308 last October, where he made history as the first fighter to ever knock out Max Holloway, successfully defending his featherweight title in the process. Prior to that, he knocked out Volkanovski at UFC 298 in February 2024 to capture the championship.

    Ilia Topuria currently sports an unblemished 8-0 record in the UFC and an overall perfect 16-0 mark, including six knockout victories and eight submission triumphs.

  • MMA Fighter Who Competed In Jorge Masvidal’s Promotion Killed After Alleged Break-In

    MMA Fighter Who Competed In Jorge Masvidal’s Promotion Killed After Alleged Break-In

    A former MMA fighter who once competed under Jorge Masvidal’s promotion tragically lost his life after an alleged home invasion turned deadly.

    According to a report from News4JAX, a 31-year-old man was shot and killed on Tuesday night in what authorities are calling an act of self-defense. The fatal incident occurred on SW Leslie Glen in Lake City, Florida, after the man allegedly attempted to break into the residence of his ex-wife.

    The individual was later identified as professional mixed martial artist Langston Sykes. Reports indicate that Sykes forcibly entered the home, where he was met with gunfire. Authorities revealed that an adult inside the residence had an active protection order against him.

    UFC bantamweight fighter Ramon Taveras took to Facebook on Thursday to mourn the untimely passing of Sykes.

    “Didn’t really know Lanko Sykes but we shared the mats together a few times. Sad to see this happen man, cause this could have been me last year. I just want to say this, to anybody who’s chasing a dream don’t lose it over something or somebody. IT IS NOT WORTH IT!! The UFC has shown me things I thought I’d never see, brought me to places I never been, introduced me to some of the best people I have ever met!! It is so much more out there to life for you to explore than what you see on the daily basis,” Tavares wrote.

    Sykes last stepped into the cage at Island Fights 84 last August, where he secured a first-round knockout victory over Anson Swindle.

    Sykes began his professional MMA journey at Jorge Masvidal’s iKON FC 4 in August 2022, but his debut was far from ideal, as he suffered a first-round knockout loss to Malcolm Wellmaker. He struggled to find consistency in the cage and held a 1-4 record.

  • Watch UFC 313: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Press Conference Live Stream

    Watch UFC 313: Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Press Conference Live Stream

    We’re deep into UFC 313 fight week, meaning it’s time for the fighters set to be in action on March 8 to take to the stage and answer some questions.

    The MMA leader’s third numbered event of the year takes place at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, where the main attraction will see UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira put his belt on the line against top contender Magomed Ankalaev.

    Setting the stage for the UFC 313 headliners will be a key rematch at 155 pounds. Former interim champ Justin Gaethje will look to emerge victorious from his first fight since a brutal knockout loss to Max Holloway last April, as he runs it back with a man he’s previously gotten the better of in Azerbaijan’s Rafael Fiziev.

    Also on pay-per-view will be a clash of lightweight strikers in Jalin Turner and Ignacio Bahamondes, an important strawweight bout between Amanda Lemos and Iasmin Lucindo, and the latest test for Fighting Nerds standout Mauricio Ruffy opposite King Green.

    As is customary during major fight weeks, the athletes will take to the stage on Thursday for the UFC 313 pre-fight press conference. The latest edition will see the main and co-main events, as well as Turner and Bahamondes, with mic in hand.

    Check out a live stream of the presser below via the UFC’s official YouTube channel, commencing at 8 PM ET.

  • Canelo Optimistic Turki Alalshikh & Dana White’s Promotion Will Be Good For Boxing

    Canelo Optimistic Turki Alalshikh & Dana White’s Promotion Will Be Good For Boxing

    Canelo Alvarez, boxing’s global star, has recently made a series of high-profile moves that are reshaping his career. After signing a last-minute, multi-fight deal with influential advisor Turki Alalshikh, he parted ways with Premier Boxing Champions and potential clash with YouTube star Jake Paul. 

    This shift has positioned him for a reported blockbuster fight on Netflix. The unified super middleweight champion is set to make his Saudi Arabia debut on May 3, facing undefeated IBF titleholder William Scull in an undisputed 168-pound clash as part of Riyadh Season.

    However, the buzz surrounding Alvarez extends beyond his upcoming fight following the recent announcement of UFC’s Dana White and WWE’s Nick Khan leading TKO’s new boxing promotion, backed by Alalshikh and Saudi Arabia. 

    It has fueled speculation about Alvarez’s future. With the promotion’s anticipated debut in September, rumors are swirling that Canelo could headline against pound-for-pound boxing luminary Terence Crawford.

    This potential super-fight underscores the significant impact of the new promotion and the high-caliber matchups it aims to deliver.

    “There’s always an opportunity for me to fight in September in Las Vegas, those are my dates [along with Cinco de Mayo weekend in May] and everyone knows that,” Alvarez told CBS Sports HQ on Thursday. “We need to take care of the May fight first but there is an opportunity to fight in Vegas in September and be the first event for [TKO] as a promoter.”

    When questioned about the potential impact of Dana White and TKO’s foray into boxing, Canelo expressed optimism.

    “I think if it’s the best for the fighters out there, I’m fine with that,” Alvarez said. “I think [TKO] is going to do the best for the fighters, I’m pretty sure about that. I’m glad someone takes good care of the fighters because there are a lot of promoters that don’t take seriously the fighters. I think this is good for boxing and for the fighters, especially.”

  • Israel Adesanya Warns Magomed Ankalaev Of ‘Painful’ Experience vs. Alex Pereira 

    Israel Adesanya Warns Magomed Ankalaev Of ‘Painful’ Experience vs. Alex Pereira 

    Israel Adesanya will be paying close attention to Alex Pereira’s light heavyweight title defense at UFC 313, which presents him with a formidable challenge against Magomed Ankalaev, a fighter riding a 13-fight unbeaten streak. 

    Given their extensive history across multiple combat sports, Adesanya possesses unparalleled insight into Pereira’s fighting style. Their relationship, now marked by cordiality, lends significant weight to the former middleweight king’s analysis of Pereira’s fights.

    Ankalaev’s diverse skillset is widely anticipated to test Pereira’s abilities to their limits. “Poatan,” however, heads into the fight with significant momentum, having successfully defended his title three times in 2024. A victory this weekend would solidify his place in history, making him the fastest light heavyweight champion to achieve four title defenses (within 329 days), surpassing Jon Jones’ record.

    Adesanya’s prediction for the UFC 313 main event is decisive: he doesn’t foresee the clash between Pereira and Ankalaev going the full five rounds. Instead, Adesanya anticipates a decisive finish.

    “Leg kicks. Let’s just address the f*cking elephant in the room,” Adesanya said. “That’s gonna be a factor in this fight. (Ankalaev) might have to become a wrestler in this fight. He might have to go into his bag for this one ’cause you can’t just (stand with Pereira).

    “Maybe I’m banking so much on the leg kicks. I have experience with it. I know how painful it is and how effective it is,” Adesanya continued. “Regardless, I’m gonna go Pereira ’cause momentum. He’s just on a tear right now. When you have that kind of frame and power, you just trust in your skillset so much.”

  • Al Iaquinta Responds To Dana White’s Plan For A UFC-Style Boxing League

    Al Iaquinta Responds To Dana White’s Plan For A UFC-Style Boxing League

    Former UFC fighter Al Iaquinta has weighed in on Dana White’s ambitious plan to restructure boxing into a unified league modeled after the UFC. White, the UFC president, announced in March 2025 a partnership with Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority and TKO Group Holdings to launch the new boxing league, with events expected to begin in late 2025.

    White’s vision is to consolidate boxing’s multiple sanctioning bodies—such as the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO—into a single organization with one champion per division. During an appearance on ESPN’s First Take, he said that the sport lacks centralized promotion and that his plan could elevate undiscovered talent, much like the UFC did for mixed martial arts.

    “There’s talent out there that nobody knows about. What I’d love to do is build this thing from the ground up, the way that we did the UFC … Get rid of the five different champions, five different sanctioning organizations—just one,” White said.

    Al Iaquinta’s Skepticism

    Iaquinta responded to White’s comments on X, expressing doubt that boxing could be monopolized the way the UFC took over MMA.

    “Boxing can be improved but seems too established to be developed into a monopoly the way MMA was by the UFC,” Iaquinta wrote.

    His skepticism highlights a major challenge in White’s plan. Unlike MMA in the early 2000s—where the UFC was able to buy out or outcompete smaller promotions—boxing has a deeply entrenched history, with multiple governing bodies, major promoters like Top Rank and Golden Boy, and lucrative fighter contracts.

    Community Reactions and Criticism

    Iaquinta’s viewpoint was echoed by other users on X, some of whom pointed out that boxers at the highest level earn significantly more than UFC fighters. Some critics in the discussion raised concerns about fighter pay, a longstanding issue in the UFC.

    One user wrote, “Dana White is a slave driver. UFC was built on underpayment of fighters,” referencing ongoing criticism of White’s business model. Others suggested that young boxers might resist joining a new league if it meant lower earnings compared to stars like Canelo Alvarez or Tyson Fury.

    Challenges Facing White’s Boxing League

    Despite skepticism, White’s financial backing from Saudi Arabia provides him with significant resources to challenge boxing’s status quo. However, key obstacles remain, including resistance from existing promoters, legal barriers, and skepticism over fighter compensation.

    Iaquinta’s response underscores the difficulty of transforming a century-old sport into a single-entity promotion. While White envisions a streamlined league that could elevate undiscovered talent, boxing’s longstanding structure makes such a shift highly complex.

  • Taylor vs. Serrano 3: Trilogy Fight Set For Historic All-Women’s Card July 11 At MSG

    Taylor vs. Serrano 3: Trilogy Fight Set For Historic All-Women’s Card July 11 At MSG

    Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano will reignite their rivalry in a highly anticipated trilogy fight for the undisputed super lightweight championship on Friday, July 11. The bout, promoted by Most Valuable Promotions (MVP), will take place at Madison Square Garden and will be streamed live on Netflix, headlining the first-ever all-women’s professional boxing event at the iconic venue.

    A Rivalry for the Ages

    This fight marks the third meeting between Taylor (24-1, 6 KOs), Ireland’s pound-for-pound superstar and undisputed super lightweight champion, and Serrano (47-3-1, 31 KOs), Puerto Rico’s seven-division world champion and one of the most decorated female fighters in boxing history. Their rivalry began with a groundbreaking clash in April 2022, which was the first women’s bout to headline Madison Square Garden. That fight won multiple accolades, including Sports Illustrated’s Fight of the Year and The Ring’s Event of the Year.

    Their rematch, which took place at AT&T Stadium in November 2024, broke records, drawing 74 million global viewers on Netflix—the most-watched women’s sporting event in U.S. history. Taylor emerged victorious in both encounters, but now Serrano looks to even the score in a historic third showdown.

    Taylor’s Road to the Trilogy

    Taylor, an Olympic gold medalist and two-weight undisputed champion, has long been a trailblazer in women’s boxing. She successfully defended her lightweight crown against Serrano in 2022 and later captured the undisputed super lightweight title by avenging her sole professional loss against Chantelle Cameron in November 2023. Now, she returns to Madison Square Garden, aiming for a third victory over her fiercest rival.

    “I’m 2-0 against Amanda, but this is a special rivalry that delivers every time,” said Taylor. “The atmosphere for the first fight at MSG was incredible, and I know this one will be just as special.”

    Serrano Aims for Redemption

    Serrano, the first-ever Puerto Rican undisputed world champion, has built a legacy as one of boxing’s most dominant figures. Following her 2022 loss to Taylor, she became the undisputed featherweight champion, making history again in October 2023 by competing in the first-ever women’s unified world title fight contested over 12 three-minute rounds. She then moved up in weight to face Taylor in their 2024 rematch, losing a razor-thin decision.

    Now, she is determined to finally claim victory in their trilogy fight.

    “I promised my fans they would see this trilogy, and I’m grateful we get to complete our journey where it all began,” said Serrano. “Every time we share the ring, it’s war, and on July 11, I will finally get the win I deserve.”

    A Groundbreaking Event for Women’s Boxing

    Katie Taylor vs Amanda Serrano 3 poster

    Taylor vs. Serrano 3 will not only settle one of the sport’s greatest rivalries but also mark a milestone for women’s boxing. It will be the first all-women’s professional boxing card at Madison Square Garden, with both Taylor and Serrano set to earn record-breaking purses.

    “This is more than just a fight—it’s a celebration of the unmatched talent of women in boxing,” said Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian, co-founders of Most Valuable Promotions. “Taylor and Serrano have shattered barriers, and this event is another historic step forward for women’s sports.”

    Fans can catch the action live on Netflix, as the streaming giant continues to expand its coverage of major sports events. Pre-sale ticket signups are available now, with additional details, including the undercard, set to be announced soon.

  • Cris Cyborg Gives Timeline For Next PFL Fight, Names Possible Opponent

    Cris Cyborg Gives Timeline For Next PFL Fight, Names Possible Opponent

    The “legacy tour” of MMA legend Cris Cyborg is expected to continue this coming fall.

    Cyborg, a former UFC, Strikeforce, Bellator, and Invicta FC champion, added PFL gold to her collection in her promotional debut last October. She emerged victorious from a memorable five-round battle with Larissa Pacheco, claiming the PFL Super Fights women’s featherweight title.

    The bout marked the Brazilian’s first in 12 months. And by the sounds of things, fans could be waiting the same amount of time before seeing the 39-year-old back in action.

    During a recent interview with Bloody Elbow’s Kyle Dimond prior to her latest win in the boxing ring this week, Cyborg outlined when she expects to make the walk to the PFL SmartCage for the second time.

    “I believe my next MMA fight is gonna be in the fall,” she said. “So after the (boxing) fight, I just keep working, keep training, and yes, I believe it’s gonna be around that time.”

    While many have suggested there might be a struggle finding adequate opposition for her, Cyborg already has a name in mind.

    “PFL have other girls I can fight. They have Leah McCourt who can fight with me. We were already supposed to fight in Bellator to defend the title. They have other girls there.”

    McCourt, who has previously expressed frustration at being overlooked for a clash with Cyborg, is 2-3 across her last five fights.

    “The Curse” is coming off a shock first-round submission loss to Sara Collins at the Bellator Champions Series event in London last September.

  • Dana White Makes One Thing Crystal Clear About New Boxing Promotion

    Dana White Makes One Thing Crystal Clear About New Boxing Promotion

    Dana White is adamant about one thing he absolutely doesn’t want to include in his newly launched boxing promotion.

    On Tuesday, the UFC CEO, alongside Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority chief Turki Alalshikh, announced a historic collaboration to establish a new boxing league under the TKO banner. WWE president Nick Khan is also set to play a pivotal role on the promotion’s executive board.

    According to a press release, the new promotion will introduce a systematic framework aimed at nurturing rising talent from around the world. Additionally, boxers will benefit from access to the state-of-the-art UFC Performance Institutes, while TKO will take charge of all event production, ensuring top-tier experiences for both live audiences and broadcasts.

    Further insights into the new venture are expected to be revealed in the coming months. However, following the initial announcement, speculation has already begun to swirl, with various rumors circulating about the direction of the league.

    During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, White was asked if the new TKO boxing promotion could ever feature UFC fighters stepping into the boxing ring to face boxers in a future crossover event.

    In response, the UFC head honcho, known for his skepticism toward crossover events, swiftly shut down the notion. However, he did acknowledge that there are several MMA fighters within the organization who are eager to test their skills in the boxing ring.

    “No, never,” White said. “I’m sure there are guys that want to box, but I literally don’t want to see any of that. We’ll keep the boxers in the boxing and the MMA guys in the MMA.”

    White has also rejected the idea of any potential crossover between the UFC and WWE, even after the two combat sports organizations unified financials to create TKO in September 2023.

    Historically, White has been vocal in criticizing boxing promotions for focusing too much on star-studded main events while neglecting to build compelling undercards — something he’s always considered a hallmark of the UFC’s success. He has also voiced frustration with the fragmented and disjointed nature of boxing’s title systems .

  • Justin Gaethje After First Rewatch Of UFC 300 Loss: ‘I Fought Really Well’

    Justin Gaethje After First Rewatch Of UFC 300 Loss: ‘I Fought Really Well’

    Though the night ended in the worst way possible for him, UFC lightweight contender Justin Gaethje saw plenty of positives to take from his most recent fight.

    Gaethje is slated to co-headline this weekend’s UFC 313 pay-per-view in a rematch against Rafael Fiziev, who’s stepped up on late notice to replace the injured Dan Hooker.

    For “The Highlight,” Saturday’s event will mark his first outing in 11 months, having not appeared since a crushing last-second knockout loss to Max Holloway at UFC 300 last April.

    Much has been made about the impact of that setback leading up to Gaethje’s return, and the man himself revealed during media day that he sat down and watched the full fight back for the first time just days out from UFC 313.

    “I just watched the Max fight today for the first time,” he said during media day. “I actually think I fought really well. It was just he was so great that night. … I just figured it was about time (to rewatch it). … To be fair, I did stop it with 10 seconds left (laughs). I’ve seen that part plenty of times.”

    Gaethje went on to address his previous comments about returning to a more aggressive style in 2025. That, coupled with a “refined” skillset, will make for a dangerous combination in the eyes of the ex-interim champ.

  • Diego Lopes Gives Surprising Props To Bitter UFC Rival

    Diego Lopes Gives Surprising Props To Bitter UFC Rival

    Diego Lopes seems to be giving credit where it’s due, even if it involves praising one of his former fierce rivals.

    Following Ilia Topuria’s vacating of the UFC featherweight title, Lopes has been lined up to challenge former champion Alexander Volkanovski for the vacant 145-pound crown. The highly anticipated bout will headline UFC 314 on April 12 at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida.

    Although Lopes’ fight is still over a month away — and against what could be one of his toughest opponents yet — the Brazilian fan favorite is already contemplating who he’ll defend his title against once he emerges victorious.

    During a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Lopes mentioned former opponent Movsar Evloev as a potential future title challenger. Surprisingly, Lopes offered high praise for Evloev, with whom he has engaged in multiple intense social media confrontations, commending the Russian’s undefeated record and his dominant presence in the division.

    “We have to be fair, and also we can’t hide what he’s done in the division,” Lopes said. “It’s nine wins [in a row]. Even though it’s all by decision, the guy is undefeated in the division. He’s No. 4 in the division. Like it or not, he also defeated me. And if I win the belt, I definitely think the UFC will put him next on the line.”

    Lopes faced Evloev in a short-notice bout at UFC 288 in May 2023, where he suffered a unanimous decision loss. Since then, the former Lux Fighting Championship champion has mounted a five-fight win streak, with his latest victory being a dominant win over former title challenger Brian Ortega at UFC 306 in September.

    Meanwhile, Evloev was last seen in action at UFC 310 in December, where he secured a unanimous decision victory over former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling. He also boasts dominant wins over top contenders such as Arnold Allen, Dan Ige, and Hakeem Dawodu, among others.

  • Jamahal Hill Expects ‘Hate’ For Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Prediction

    Jamahal Hill Expects ‘Hate’ For Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev Prediction

    Former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill has given his take on Saturday’s main event between Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev — and he doesn’t foresee it being a popular one.

    This weekend’s UFC 313 pay-per-view will conclude with Pereira’s fourth defense of the light heavyweight gold, which he held through three challenges in 2024.

    Among the fallen contenders was Hill, who was knocked out by “Poatan” inside the first round at UFC 300 last April.

    But despite feeling the full force of Pereira’s patented left hook, “Sweet Dreams” doesn’t expect Magomed Ankalaev to suffer the same fate inside T-Mobile Arena on March 8.

    During a video recently uploaded to his YouTube channel, Hill broke down the latest title fight in his division. Of note was his belief that Ankalaev’s striking threat is being wrongly counted out.

    “Magomed’s striking is seriously being slept on here,” Hill said. “I don’t believe that Pereira sits back and wants to fight out of the pocket. He wants to put the pressure on him and land good, hard shots on the outside. The problem with that is, Magomed is a counter striker.

    “If you look at his last few fights, he counters. He waits for you to throw, to overexert yourself, and even off of feints, if you feint and it puts your feet in the wrong spot, he’s countering you. He counters with combinations. They’re fast, and he mixes up his punches. So, he has a variety of strikes available at his disposal.”

    That, coupled with the Dagestani’s well-known grappling ability, has left Hill leaning on the challenger’s side with his prediction.

    “I know I’m going to get hate for this,” Hill stated. “But I get hate anyway, f*ck y’all. I’m probably going to go with Magomed. I’ve just got a feeling. … I feel he has more tools to win. Alex has that one-hit wonder…but I believe Magomed also has that.

    “He’s been in this position for. He let the title slip away, slip out of his hands once before. I believe he’ll be a lot more focused, locked in for this,” Hill continued. “Ultimately, he just has more ways to win.”

    Hill will look to stake his claim for a showdown with the winner down the line when he returns to action at the UFC Fight Night in Kansas City next month.

    After a loss to Jiří Procházka at UFC 311 this past January, “Sweet Dreams” is now tasked with dispatching of Khalil Rountree Jr. if he’s to avoid a three-fight losing skid.

  • Turki Alalshikh, Dana White Hint At Date For New Boxing Promotion’s Debut

    Turki Alalshikh, Dana White Hint At Date For New Boxing Promotion’s Debut

    Dana White and Turki Alalshikh may already have a target date in mind for the highly anticipated debut of their newly launched joint venture.

    On Tuesday, UFC CEO White and Saudi Arabian General Entertainment Authority chief Alalshikh officially unveiled a groundbreaking multi-year partnership to launch a new boxing league under the TKO banner.

    According to a press release, WWE president Nick Khan will serve as a key figure on the promotion’s executive board. Saudi entertainment giant Sela has joined the venture as a major partner. The company has been instrumental in organizing high-profile boxing events featuring superstars like Anthony Joshua and Terence Crawford.

    During a recent appearance on The Pat McAfee Show, Turki Alalshikh and Dana White delved into their partnership. Amid their conversation, the Riyadh Season chief subtly hinted that the debut event for their new boxing promotion could be set for September, with Sept. 12 likely being the target date.

    However, White remained tight-lipped about a specific date for the promotion’s first event. The 55-year-old UFC boss teased that they have a blockbuster fight in the works.

    “When it’s time to announce, we have a massive fight – and this is literally exactly what I’m talking about – a massive fight that only this guy [Alalshikh] could make happen,” White said. “Only this guy could make a fight like this happen. We will announce it when we’re ready to. This is the guy who’s literally brought boxing back.”

    Sept. 12 could very well mark the debut of the newly launched boxing promotion, as it falls within Mexican Independence Week — a time traditionally reserved for major boxing events. Around this time almost each year, boxing icon Canelo Álvarez typically steps into the ring, and this year he’s expected to clash with Crawford in a superfight on Sept. 13.

    The new promotion will implement a comprehensive system designed to cultivate emerging talent from across the globe, featuring athlete combines and dedicated academies.

    Boxers will have access to the world-class UFC Performance Institutes, while TKO will oversee all aspects of event production, both for broadcast and live arena experiences.

  • Magomed Ankalaev Reveals Break From Ramadan Fasting For UFC 313

    Magomed Ankalaev Reveals Break From Ramadan Fasting For UFC 313

    Magomed Ankalaev is putting performance first by pausing his Ramadan fast to be in peak shape for his title fight.

    Ankalaev is set to headline UFC 313 this Saturday at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, where he’ll challenge reigning light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira for the throne.

    The 32-year-old Dagestani fighter, a committed Muslim, received widespread praise when his fight was announced in January. The bout was set during Ramadan, a month of deep spiritual commitment in which Muslims refrain from eating and drinking during daylight hours for 30 days.

    Ankalaev shared that he has strictly followed Ramadan fasting since its start on Feb. 28. In the UFC 313 Countdown episode, he even suggested that the challenge of abstaining from food has, in fact, made him feel even stronger.

    However, during a recent interview with Ag. Fight, Ankalaev admitted that with fight night fast approaching and a grueling weight cut ahead, he has eased up on his Ramadan fasting to maintain optimal performance.

    “I have been following the fast strictly except for this week, where I will have to break it a few times because I need to make sure I drink water to have a successful weight cut,” Ankalaev said. “But apart from that, I started with Ramadan. I have been fasting. And after the fight, I will obviously also follow the rules of religion as it has to be.”

    Interestingly, Ankalaev’s remarks came just a day after “Poatan” accused him of leveraging his Ramadan fast for attention — suggesting that his opponent might be laying the groundwork for an excuse if he comes up short this weekend.

    Ankalaev heads into UFC 313 riding the momentum of a dominant unanimous decision victory over Aleksandar Rakić at UFC 308 last October, pushing his unbeaten streak to 13 fights. This will be his second crack at UFC gold, having fought Jan Blachowicz to a draw in his first title bid at UFC 282 in December 2022.

  • Former FBI Agent Backs Kash Patel’s Plan For UFC Partnership

    Former FBI Agent Backs Kash Patel’s Plan For UFC Partnership

    The newly appointed FBI Director, Kash Patel, is considering implementing mixed martial arts (MMA) training as a mandatory requirement for agents, and one former agent supports the idea.

    This initiative is part of Patel’s broader agenda, which includes aligning the bureau with the Trump administration’s priorities and enhancing the physical fitness of its personnel.

    In addition to this proposed training regimen, Patel is reportedly focused on removing agents who do not align with the administration’s goals. The emphasis on physical fitness, particularly through MMA training, is seen as a way to ensure agents are prepared for the physical demands of their roles.

    Jody Weis, a former FBI special agent in charge and former superintendent of the Chicago Police Department, has publicly expressed support for the idea, indicating that he believes it would be a beneficial addition to agent training.

    “You know, I actually do like it,” Weis told The National News Desk’s Jan Jeffcoat. “I probably wouldn’t have made it my first call to the field offices, but I like the idea.”

    Weis believes that while FBI agents receive training in arrest procedures and defensive tactics, incorporating mixed martial arts (MMA) skills would provide a valuable enhancement. He specifically highlighted the potential benefits of agents learning MMA fighting techniques, with a particular emphasis on jiu-jitsu.

    “Most fights will end up on the ground, so it just makes sense to me to incorporate some MMA training — maybe Brazilian jiu jitsu to give the agents options besides strikes and weapons,” Weis told Jeffcoat. “For example, if properly applied, a naked choke or an arm bar could help gain compliance without having to use pepper spray or use a baton. And, I think, more importantly, this type of training can boost the confidence and safety for the agents.”

    Jody Weis acknowledged the controversial nature of chokeholds, noting their “bad press” and the fact that many police departments have prohibited their use. However, he went on to say it pales in comparison to current tactics.

    “As someone who’s been sprayed with pepper spray (and) who’s been choked out, if you give me the option of those two, I’ll take being choked out any time,” he said. “It’s far less painful. It’s got to be incorporated throughout their career. I think that applies in all sports.

    According to ABC News, citing anonymous sources, FBI Director Kash Patel is reportedly exploring the possibility of establishing a formal partnership between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the UFC, led by UFC CEO Dana White.

    This potential collaboration is notable given White’s vocal support of President Donald Trump, who has frequently attended UFC events and been seen alongside White.

  • Dana White Gives Major Update On Jon Jones’ UFC Return

    Dana White Gives Major Update On Jon Jones’ UFC Return

    Jon Jones’s return to the Octagon is generating significant buzz, with UFC CEO Dana White providing an update. 

    The most pressing question remains: will Jones finally face interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall?

    Jones’ avoidance of Aspinall has fueled accusations of “ducking” from fans, especially considering his controversial title defense against a 42-year-old Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 rather than facing the interim champ.

    Despite past avoidance, White has repeatedly stated that Aspinall is Jones’ next opponent. This potential clash is one of the most anticipated in MMA history, with Aspinall being widely regarded as the Rochester native’s toughest test at heavyweight.

    The fight’s realization, however, hinges on negotiations and getting the right figure agreed to.

    While appearing on ESPN’s First Take on Wednesday, White confirmed that the heavyweight champion will fight sometime “this summer.” This announcement could put to rest earlier retirement speculations that had swirled around Jon Jones.

    While a definitive date and opponent are yet to be finalized, UFC International Fight Week (IFW), culminating in UFC 317 on June 28, is a strong possibility. However, rumors of a potential Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria superfight headlining could leave room for Jones to compete later in the summer.

    The summer showdown, if it materializes, promises to be a landmark event in Jon Jones’ legendary career. It would also be one of the biggest fights that the UFC could do.

  • Turki Alalshikh Backs Dana White To Make ‘Boxing Great Again’

    Turki Alalshikh Backs Dana White To Make ‘Boxing Great Again’

    A groundbreaking partnership has been forged between Turki Alalshikh and TKO Group Holdings, heralding the launch of a new boxing promotion.

    This boxing venture will be jointly steered by two prominent names in combat sports and entertainment: UFC CEO Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan.

    White’s renewed interest in boxing has been a subject of speculation for some time, with reports earlier in 2025 indicating advanced discussions between him and Alalshikh, Chairman of Saudi Arabia’s General Entertainment Authority. These reports have now been confirmed with the official announcement of the partnership on Wednesay. 

    The collaboration, revealed through a press release, unites Alalshikh, TKO Group Holdings (formed by Endeavor through the merger of WWE and Zuffa LLC, UFC’s parent company), and the entertainment conglomerate Sela.

    Their shared ambition is to establish a new, “premier” platform that will redefine the landscape of professional boxing.

    “I am very happy today,” Alalshikh said. “I am very happy today. I give the flag of boxing to the best man who can handle it. We have a tough job now, but I am sure he will be delivering to the people and the fans the magnificent league and get boxing great again.”

    The landscape of combat sports is undergoing a significant shift, with Alalshikh playing a pivotal role in funding the effort. His involvement in high-profile boxing events has solidified his presence in the boxing world.

    The recent announcement of Saudi Arabia’s funding for a new boxing promotion, spearheaded by TKO, was largely anticipated. TKO President and COO Mark Shapiro had previously hinted at ongoing negotiations, teasing the possibility of two major cards in 2025 and 2026.

    Alalshikh’s influence extends beyond traditional boxing. He recently demonstrated a willingness to blend elements of MMA into boxing events with “The Last Crescendo” in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This card, held on Feb. 22, featured a stacked lineup of title fights, culminating in a captivating undisputed light heavyweight championship rematch between Dmitry Bivol and Artur Beterbiev.

  • 47-Year-Old UFC Vet With Only 8 KOs In 80 Fights Set For BKFC Debut

    47-Year-Old UFC Vet With Only 8 KOs In 80 Fights Set For BKFC Debut

    Aleksei Oleinik, a veteran of 80 professional MMA fights, is transitioning to a new combat sports arena: Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC).

    At 47, Oleinik is not retiring. Instead, he’s embracing a fresh challenge.

    Oleinik’s career has been a global odyssey, with appearances in prominent promotions like the UFC, KSW, and Bellator. Now, he’s set to make his BKFC debut on April 4 in Dubai, marking the promotion’s inaugural event in the United Arab Emirates.

    His opponent will be Gerônimo dos Santos, a 44-year-old Brazilian heavyweight with a wealth of experience, boasting 71 professional fights. Oleinik’s message of “Bone. Blood. Fist.” reflects his anticipation for the bare-knuckle challenge.

    This move follows Oleinik’s submission victory at RCC 17 in December 2023. Notably, he also showcased his striking prowess with a 34-second knockout in his boxing debut, demonstrating his versatility beyond his renowned submission skills.

    During his 17-fight UFC tenure, Oleinik secured seven of his nine wins via submission. This earned him the moniker “The Boa Constrictor” for his grappling expertise. 

    Interestingly, while he’s signed to compete for BKFC, Oleinik has also put pen to paper on a deal with the new MMA promotion, Global Fight League. He was drafted by Team New York City.

    His UFC record includes unique submission victories, such as Ezekiel chokes and neck cranks. He faced a who’s who of heavyweight talent, including Curtis Blaydes, Mark Hunt, Travis Browne, Alistair Overeem, and former UFC champion Fabricio Werdum.

    This event marks BKFC’s first-ever event into the Middle East, specifically in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The event will be held at the Dubai Tennis Stadium. The main event features Austin Trout, the current BKFC welterweight champion, defending his title against Carlos “Snake” Trinidad.

  • PFL World Tournament HW & LHW Rosters Revealed

    PFL World Tournament HW & LHW Rosters Revealed

    The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has finished announcing the rosters for eight World Tournaments set for 2025, with the final releases being the heavyweight and light heavyweight lineups.

    Major change is coming to the PFL this year, with the promotion making the decision to eliminate the season and playoff format from its yearly structure. Replacing that and the $1 million prize money will be Grand Prix-style tournaments across eight divisions, with the winners of each collecting $500,000.

    After confirming the dates and venue for four events that will host first-round matchups, the PFL has been announcing the full rosters. Prior to this week, the welterweight, featherweight, women’s flyweight, bantamweight, middleweight, and lightweight lineups were confirmed.

    And the rollouts have now concluded with the 16 men set to compete in the inaugural heavyweight and light heavyweight tournaments.

    Among the most notable inclusions for the former bracket is Alexandr Romanov, a once highly touted UFC prospect who went 7-3 in the Octagon, losing only to top 10 names in Alexander Volkov, Marcin Tybura, and Jailton Almeida.

    See below for the full eight-man roster for this year’s heavyweight World Tournament, as announced in a recent press release.

    • Valentin Moldavsky (13-4) 
    • Alexandr Romanov (18-3)
    • Oleg Popov (19-2)
    • Linton Vassell (25-10)
    • Sergey Bilostenniy (13-3)
    • Tim Johnson (18-11)
    • Pouya Rahmani (4-0)
    • Abraham Bably (5-1)

    At 205 pounds, meanwhile, former PFL champions Rob Wilkinson and Antonio Carlos Jr. feature, alongside PFL Europe standout Simeon Powell and ex-Bellator light heavyweight kingpin Phil Davis.

    See below for the full eight-man roster for this year’s light heavyweight World Tournament, in addition to a pair of alternates.

    • Phil Davis (24-7) 
    • Rob Wilkinson (19-3)
    • Karl Moore (12-3)
    • Marcelo Nunes (11-2)
    • Antonio Carlos Jr. (16-6)
    • Simeon Powell (10-1)
    • Karl Albrektsson (14-6)
    • Sullivan Cauley (6-1)
    • Alternate – Alex Polizzi (11-4)
    • Alternate – Rafael Xavier (13-8)
  • Turki Alalshikh, TKO Partner For New Boxing Promotion Led By UFC’s Dana White

    Turki Alalshikh, TKO Partner For New Boxing Promotion Led By UFC’s Dana White

    Turki Alalshikh and TKO Group Holdings have announced a multi-year partnership that will see the creation of a brand new boxing promotion, the executive leadership of which will be jointly led by UFC CEO Dana White and WWE President Nick Khan.

    White has picked up talk of venturing back into the boxing realm in recent years, and the start of 2025 saw reports of the UFC chief being in advanced talks with Alalshikh — Saudi Arabia’s Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority — over a potential new league.

    That’s proved to be true, with the official partnership to establish a new promotion being announced Wednesday in a press release.

    The deal sees Alalshikh, TKO — founded by Endeavor as part of a merger between WWE and Zuffa LLC, the parent company of UFC — and entertainment conglomerate Sela come together in pursuit of providing the new “premier” platform in the sport of boxing.

    “This landmark partnership between industry powerhouses sets the stage for an unparalleled experience for boxers and fans,” Alalshikh said. “Together, we are developing the next generation of talent and delivering world-class events at a time when the sport is primed for further disruption.”

    The release outlined that TKO will serve as managing partner, providing day-to-day operational expertise, management, and oversight of the new boxing promotion.

    Meanwhile, Sela is credited for delivering international events such as Terence Crawford vs. Israil Madrimov in Los Angeles and Anthony Joshua vs. Daniel Dubois in London, as well as being the lead sponsor for Newcastle United Football Club.

    Though further details will emerge in the coming weeks and months, the recent announcement did reveal some of the major components of the deal.

    • A highly structured system to develop new talent from around the world, including athlete combines and academies.
    • Access for all boxers to the UFC Performance Institute, the world’s leading combat sports performance training, research, rehabilitation, and nutrition center.
    • TKO’s production, media, and promotional expertise, to deliver both in-arena experiences and top-tier, state-of-the-art broadcasts to fans around the world.
  • Curtis Blaydes ‘Had To Google’ Debuting UFC 313 Opponent

    Curtis Blaydes ‘Had To Google’ Debuting UFC 313 Opponent

    UFC heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes was left having to do some additional research when the latest assignment was slid across his desk.

    Blaydes is set to return to action at this weekend’s UFC 313 pay-per-view, almost eight months on from his failed first title bid on mixed martial arts’ biggest stage last July in England.

    Off the back of a crushing first-round knockout loss to Tom Aspinall, “Razor” will look to bounce back in his first appearance of 2025. And to do so, he’s tasked with defending his #5 spot on the heavyweight ladder against a newcomer to the Octagon.

    Blaydes will top Saturday’s preliminary card opposite Rizvan Kuniev, a Dagestani heavyweight who followed a brief stint in the PFL with victory on Dana White’s Contender Series last August.

    The booking came as a surprise to many. And it wasn’t just some in the fanbase who had to look up the man placed opposite Blaydes…

    “I did (a double take), but like I always say, the money’s the same regardless if it’s Jon Jones or if it’s a debut guy,” Blaydes said during an interview with MMA Fighting. “The money’s the same so I’ll always be down.

    “I had to Google him. I watched his fight on The (Dana White’s) Contender (Series), that’s really the only fight of his I watched. He looks like your traditional heavyweight — swings heavy and hopes to knock you out early.”

    While his opponent may not be an established name in the UFC heavyweight division, Blaydes will no doubt still be motivated to ensure he doesn’t fall to the first losing skid of his career inside T-Mobile Arena on March 8.

  • VIDEO: Colby Covington Sees Former Teammate At UFC PI, Runs Away

    VIDEO: Colby Covington Sees Former Teammate At UFC PI, Runs Away

    UFC welterweight Colby Covington almost had a run-in with an ex-training partner at the UFC Performance Institute this week.

    Covington, a polarizing figure in mixed martial arts, isn’t short on enemies amassed throughout his career. From American Top Team fighters like Dustin Poirier and Jorge Masvidal to former opponents in Kamaru Usman and Leon Edwards, “Chaos” has his fair share of detractors in the sport.

    With that in mind, being in places swarming with fighters like the UFC PI no doubt always runs the risk of the 37-year-old bumping into a hostile face. And that’s exactly what happened during a recent Twitch stream on Covington’s channel.

    Footage was spread on social media showing “Chaos” turning a corner into a training area before glancing back at his cameraman. After a concerned look, the former interim titleholder quickly bolted and headed elsewhere.

    His swift exit was due to the presence of Themba Gorimbo, a former training partner of his at MMA Masters.

    Gorimbo, who also competes in the UFC welterweight division, previously sung the praises of Covington. While teammates in Florida, “The Answer” lauded his peer for helping him during a time of need during his early days in the promotion.

    Coincidentally, Gorimbo puts their falling out down to an incident at the UFC PI. He accused Covington of ‘kicking’ him out while he was using a treadmill so that he could cut weight without company for his UFC 296 title fight.

    The Zimbabwean subsequently left MMA Masters and switched to Xtreme Couture.

  • PFL’s Dakota Ditcheva ‘Freaked Out’ After Fan Used Instagram Post To Track Her Down

    PFL’s Dakota Ditcheva ‘Freaked Out’ After Fan Used Instagram Post To Track Her Down

    PFL standout Dakota Ditcheva was left spooked after an unexpected encounter with a fan.

    Ditcheva’s star has grown no end in recent times. After establishing herself as one to watch with success in the PFL Europe regional expansion in 2023, “Dangerous” proved herself on the global stage.

    The 26-year-old striking specialist most recently steamrolled through former UFC title challenger Taila Santos to remain undefeated and capture the 2024 PFL women’s flyweight title.

    With that, Ditcheva has significantly grown her fanbase. But one supporter recently showed too much enthusiasm.

    During a video uploaded to her YouTube channel late last month, Ditcheva detailed her time in Dubai for the PFL Champions Series event in January. At one point, the British fighter spoke to the camera and described an interaction with a fan at the hotel she was staying at.

    The individual, who outlined that he’d been “looking” for her, discovered Ditcheva’s location from a post on her Instagram Story that featured the hotel’s branding.

    “On the way back from breakfast, then somebody had seen that I was in this hotel on Instagram,” Ditcheva said. “It’s my fault because I put a photo on of that board, the chocolate board that they brought to my room. I put it on my Instagram Story…I don’t normally share my location until I’ve gone.”

    Despite the fan being friendly, Ditcheva admitted the experience had still ‘freaked her out’.

    “Stupidly, I did that and I just got approached on the way back from breakfast, which was fine, I love for you guys to come up and say hi and things like that, but when I’m on my own, it freaks me out a little bit,” Ditcheva continued. “He said he’d seen me on Instagram and he’d been DM-ing me and was basically looking for me. He was dead excited to see me, which is really nice and he was a really nice guy, but it does freak me out a little.

    “It’s always lovely to meet you guys, but when I’m on my own and I haven’t got my brother or my mum with me, it does just scare me a little bit,” she concluded.

    Ditcheva’s incident comes soon after tennis star Emma Raducanu’s harrowing stalking experience. The 2021 US Open champion was said to have been followed across four countries by a man whose behavior was described as being ‘fixated’ on Raducanu.

    The individual was handed a restraining order after the British tennis player spotted him in the crowd at a recent championship in Dubai.

  • Dan Hardy Names The Only ‘Legit’ Fight For Tom Aspinall Aside From Jon Jones — And It’s Not Alex Pereira

    Dan Hardy Names The Only ‘Legit’ Fight For Tom Aspinall Aside From Jon Jones — And It’s Not Alex Pereira

    In Dan Hardy’s eyes, the only intriguing opponent for Interim UFC Heavyweight Champion Tom Aspinall sits outside of the promotion.

    Aspinall continues to await news of his next assignment. Despite the division boasting two titleholders for the past 16 months, it remains unclear whether the British powerhouse and Jon Jones will meet in a unification fight.

    Following Jones’ successful defense against Stipe Miocic last November, Dana White gave his backing for “Bones” to face Aspinall next. Negotiations for that coming to fruition are seemingly underway.

    And according to Hardy, the UFC higher-ups better make Jones an offer he can’t refuse lest they be left with zero “legit” matchups for Aspinall.

    Though many might disagree and point to a heavyweight clash with current 205-pound kingpin Alex Pereira, “The Outlaw” believes only PFL star Francis Ngannou would be adequate opposition for the Manchester native.

    “Of course, Pereira could touch anybody on the chin on the planet and knock them out. But if you’re looking for a real, legit heavyweight contender for Tom, maybe I’m a broken record, but it has to be Ngannou,” Hardy said during a recent appearance on Submission Radio. “There isn’t anybody else, really. I don’t see any other fight that truly excites me. I can point at that and say, ‘That’s the heavyweight king.’ And I don’t even think I could say that if it was Jones versus Aspinall at this point, because I don’t feel like Jones is — I mean, he’s potentially number three in the heavyweight division right now, behind Ngannou and Aspinall.

    “You have to admit, though, someone else in Tom Aspinall’s position might just say, ‘Hey, give me Pereira. Let’s just fight now,’ because that would bring so much money,” Hardy continued. “But he wants the tougher fight in Jon Jones, and if Francis Ngannou were around, he’d want the tougher fight in Francis Ngannou. So it’s one of those things where we should reward the guys that deserve to be rewarded.”

    The topic of Pereira moving up another division has long been a prominent topic. And it’ll no doubt return to the surface should he dispatch of Magomed Ankalaev for a fourth successful light heavyweight title defense this weekend at UFC 313.

    Ngannou, meanwhile, emerged victorious from his PFL debut last October. He’s expected to next return to the boxing ring.