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  • “See You In December” – Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, And Other Fighters & Fans React As Lerone Murphy Gives UFC 319 A Second Straight Spinning Back Elbow KO

    “See You In December” – Alexander Volkanovski, Max Holloway, And Other Fighters & Fans React As Lerone Murphy Gives UFC 319 A Second Straight Spinning Back Elbow KO

    It was crazy enough when Carlos Prates unleashed a spinning back elbow on Geoff Neal for a Knockout of the Year contender. One fight later, we get a second kind of spinning elbow — a UFC first, and one that potentially will give Lerone Murphy a title shot.

    Murphy took advantage of Aaron Pico’s aggression and scored a spinning back elbow to score a first-round knockout in the UFC 319 co-main event.

    Pico came out with strong strikes from the start, looking to bring the fight to Murphy and connecting on the body. Murphy, however, troubled Pico with a knee that landed in close.

    “The Miracle” picked up on Pico’s forward movement and caught him being careless, landing a surprise spinning back elbow that dropped Pico out cold in devastating fashion.

    Lerone Murphy Blasts Aaron Pico With Elbow For KO At UFC 319

    Murphy now improves to 17-0-1, having won every bout in the Octagon since going to a draw in his UFC debut.

    This was Pico’s debut in the UFC since coming over from the PFL, having just one fight there following PFL’s purchase of Bellator in late 2023. Pico hadn’t fought since defeating Henry Corrales at the PFL vs. Bellator Champions card in February 2024.

  • “Sounded Like A Golf Ball Getting Hit” – Fighters & Fans React As Carlos Prates Unleashes Destructive Elbow For Walk-Off, Buzzer Beater KO Of Geoff Neal At UFC 319

    “Sounded Like A Golf Ball Getting Hit” – Fighters & Fans React As Carlos Prates Unleashes Destructive Elbow For Walk-Off, Buzzer Beater KO Of Geoff Neal At UFC 319

    Carlos Prates just produced one of the most jaw-dropping knockouts of the year, if not recent MMA history, with his finish of Geoff Neal at UFC 319.

    Neal came out with some aggression, looking to control the pace and come forward with pressure. He executed a few good shots, but focused more on single blows than combination. Prates looked to work over Neal’s legs with kicks. Prates’ pace picked up over the course of the second half of the round.

    And then, right before the horn, Prates pulled off a spinning back elbow that landed on the side of Neal’s head, dropping him out cold.

    Carlos Prates Drops Geoff Neal With KO Of The Year Contender At UFC 319

    Prates has now won five of his six fights in the Octagon since arriving from Dana White’s Contender Series, with all five coming by knockout.

    Neal has now lost three of his last four.

  • “The Most Disrespectful Non-Disrespectful Fighting Style Of All Time” – Fighters & Fans Praise Michael Page’s Output As He Scores Decision Over Jared Cannonier At UFC 319

    “The Most Disrespectful Non-Disrespectful Fighting Style Of All Time” – Fighters & Fans Praise Michael Page’s Output As He Scores Decision Over Jared Cannonier At UFC 319

    Michael Page will be a ranked UFC fighter come Tuesday, as he scored a victory over Jared Cannonier at UFC 319.

    Cannonier tried to close the distance to land on Page, but MVP kept on the outside and used his long range to his advantage. He consistently tagged Cannonier, including a counter punch that dropped Cannonier briefly. “The Gorilla” briefly was able to get a hold of Page and placed him against the fence, but he didn’t do anything with it.

    Page continued to do work in the second round, scoring another knockdown with a one-two combination and taunting Cannonier while trying to keep distance. Cannonier finally got the fight to the ground and held Page there for the third round. He attempted a couple of submissions, but they were for naught.

    Page took the decision on all three judges’ scorecards, 29-28.

    Michael Page Scores Judges’ Nod Over Jared Cannonier At UFC 319

    Page is now 3-1 in the UFC, having also bested Kevin Holland Shara Magomedov. His sole loss came against Ian Machado Garry at UFC 303.

    Cannonier is now 3-3 in his last six. He came into this fight off a knockout of Gregory “Robocop” Rodrigues.

  • “Holding It Down For The 35 And Older Club” – Fighters & Fans React To Tim Elliott Pulling Off Shocking Submission Of Kai Asakura At UFC 319

    “Holding It Down For The 35 And Older Club” – Fighters & Fans React To Tim Elliott Pulling Off Shocking Submission Of Kai Asakura At UFC 319

    Tim Elliott may be 38 years old, but don’t count him out yet. That was the statement made in his victory over Kai Asakura that kicked off the main card at UFC 319.

    Elliott seemed to struggle with the footwork of Asakura during the opening frame. That led to Asakura being able to connect on several powerful punches during the round, including a strong one-two in the opening seconds. Asakura was in control and kept the fight standing for about four minutes, but Elliott scored a takedown in the round’s final minute, getting right into side control and landing a few knees to the body.

    Elliott managed to get the fight to the ground during the second round again. This time, however, Elliott completed work over Asakura from top position, eventually making his way to a guillotine choke, scoring the submission with about 20 seconds left in the second round.

    Tim Elliott Scores Second-Round Submission At UFC 319

    https://twitter.com/teamfgarcia/status/1956907042519609790

    This was Elliott’s first fight since December 2023, when he scored a submission of Su Mudaerji.

    Asakura, the former RIZIN champion, made his UFC debut at UFC 310, falling short in a title shot against Alexandre Pantoja.

  • “Time To Officially Learn His Name” – Fans Split On Baysangur Susurkaev’s Performance At UFC 319 Following Quick Turnaround From DWCS

    “Time To Officially Learn His Name” – Fans Split On Baysangur Susurkaev’s Performance At UFC 319 Following Quick Turnaround From DWCS

    Taking the fight on just a few days’ notice, Baysangur Susurkaev faced adversity but managed to score a finish of Eric Nolan in the featured preliminary card bout of UFC 319.

    Susurkaev started the fight with heavy pressure, displaying full confidence. Nolan, however, shook things up in the closing seconds of the first, rocking Susurkaev and nearly scoring the finish.

    Susurkaev, however, stole momentum in the second round with a series of leg kicks to bust up one of Nolan’s legs. Nolan went to the mat, but that allowed Susurkaev to get right on top and work his way to Nolan’s back.

    Susurkaev then finished off the recent CFFC welterweight champion with a rear-naked choke. His post-fight interview, however, appeared to not fly over well with fans, as he called to compete at Noche UFC 3 and failed to get the Chicago crowd to chant his name.

    Baysangur Susurkaev Scores Submission Of Eric Nolan On Days’ Notice At UFC 319

    Susurkaev competed just four days ago on the season premiere of Dana White’s Contender Series season nine, scoring the night’s only finish with a body kick on Murtaza Talha.

    Nolan won the CFFC’s 170-pound title with a finish of Blayne Richards in May.

  • VIDEO: Michal Oleksiejczuk Moves To 2-0 With Fighting Nerds, Stops Gerald Meerschaert At UFC 319

    VIDEO: Michal Oleksiejczuk Moves To 2-0 With Fighting Nerds, Stops Gerald Meerschaert At UFC 319

    The move to the Fighting Nerds team continues to pay off for Michal Oleksiejczuk, as he scores a first-round knockout of Gerald Meerschaert during the UFC 319 preliminary card.

    Meerschaert tried to bring the fight to the ground consistently, but Oleksiejczuk continuously stopped his takedown attempts. Oleksiejczuk’s mission to keep the fight standing was successful, blasting Meerschaert with powerful punches and scoring a pair of knockdowns.

    Oleksiejczuk forced Meerschaert to stand until finding an opening to land brutal ground-and-pound and force referee Herb Dean to stop the fight.

    Michal Oleksiejczuk Crushes Gerald Meerschaert At UFC 319

    After three consecutive losses, Oleksiejczuk joined the Fighting Nerds team, and he’s now won back-to-back outings. He scored a first-round finish of Sedriques Dumas at UFC 314.

    Meerschaert has now lost three straight and five of his last seven.

  • VIDEO: Alexander Hernandez Blasts Chase Hooper For KO With Seconds Remaining In First Round At UFC 319

    VIDEO: Alexander Hernandez Blasts Chase Hooper For KO With Seconds Remaining In First Round At UFC 319

    Talk about a photo finish. Alexander Hernandez provided one with his first-round knockout of Chase Hooper during the UFC 319 preliminary card.

    Hooper looked to use his reach advantage, giving Hernandez some trouble with his kicks early on. “The Great Ape” worked his boxing more over the course of the round, however.

    That’d lead to the finish, with one right hand from Hernandez sending Hooper crumbling to the canvas.

    Alexander Hernandez Smashes Chase Hooper Right Before First-Round Horn

    Hernandez has now won three straight and four of his last six.

    Hooper sees a five-fight win streak he’s been on since late 2023 get snapped.

  • Dricus Du Plessis’ Coach Labels Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC 319 Face-Off Antics ‘Weakness’

    Dricus Du Plessis’ Coach Labels Khamzat Chimaev’s UFC 319 Face-Off Antics ‘Weakness’

    Dricus Du Plessis’ coach has an unexpected takeaway from the face-off with Khamzat Chimaev.

    Du Plessis is set to put his middleweight crown on the line for the third time tonight, squaring off against Chimaev in the UFC 319 main event at the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

    The lead-up to this eagerly awaited clash has been fraught with tension, fueled by fiery exchanges between the fighters on social media. Interestingly, fight week began on a different note, as Du Plessis and Chimaev showed mutual respect and initially steered clear of the usual trash talk.

    However, that initial courtesy quickly evaporated during Thursday’s pre-fight press conference, when both fighters officially faced off for the first time. The intensity spiked, particularly from “Borz”, who fired a barrage of words at the reigning UFC middleweight champion.

    Chimaev turned up the heat physically during the final staredown on Friday at the ceremonial weigh-ins, shoving ‘Stillknocks’ before being pulled apart by UFC CEO Dana White and on-stage security. Dricus Du Plessis, however, appeared completely unfazed by the incident.

    Dricus Du Plessis faces off with Khamzat Chimaev
    Image: @ufc/X

    Morne Visser Believes Dricus Du Plessis Gained Mental Edge Over Khamzat Chimaev Before UFC 319

    During a recent interview with Submission Radio, Dricus Du Plessis’ longtime coach, Morne Visser, broke down the UFC 319 face-off between ‘Stillknocks’ and Khamzat Chimaev. Visser pointed out that Du Plessis demonstrated control by holding his hands higher than ‘Borz’ and effectively got inside his opponent’s head.

    “You’ll see Khamzat has got his hands close to his chest, and Dricus has got his hands over Khamzat’s arm,” Visser said. “Not a lot of people look at that, but that shows dominance. If you look at that face-off, you know when there are two guys fighting in the street and one guy gets pulled away and his buddies kind of save him. Dana came in between and he pushed them apart, and only then did Khamzat make a big noise.

    “Why wasn’t he so arrogant when he was standing right in front of Dricus? That’s just weird for me. That just shows a little bit of weakness. If you want to be tough, be tough in front of the guy, don’t walk away and then shout stupid things.”

    Dricus Du Plessis last stepped into the Octagon at UFC 312 this past February, where he secured a dominant unanimous decision victory over Khamzat Chimaev in their rematch. ‘Stillknocks’ remains undefeated in the UFC with a perfect 9-0 record, including six wins by stoppage.

    Dricus Du Plessis custom shorts
    Image: @dricusduplessis/Instagram
  • “Proved Me Wrong Time And Time Again Throughout The Season” – Fans & Fighters React To Joseph Morales Winning Flyweight TUF Title With Triangle Choke Of Alibi Idiris At UFC 319

    “Proved Me Wrong Time And Time Again Throughout The Season” – Fans & Fighters React To Joseph Morales Winning Flyweight TUF Title With Triangle Choke Of Alibi Idiris At UFC 319

    After Brad Katona did so just a couple of seasons ago, Joseph Morales has re-entered the UFC after winning The Ultimate Fighter, becoming the flyweight winner of season 33 with a second-round submission of Alibi Idiris — a fight that kicked off the action at UFC 319.

    Morales, the major underdog in this fight, came out with pressure right away, as the two did some early trading. Though Morales was on the front foot, Idiris did very well while landing on the back foot. Morales would clinch Idiris up, however, getting the upper hand in the grappling department. After Idiris missed a spinning attack, Morales scored a takedown and worked Idiris in top control. Morales got to the back and locked up a body triangle, keeping ahold even as Idiris got to his feet. Though Morales had to release the grip, he’d use a kimura grip to get Idiris back down and back to Idiris’ back. Morales locked up a choke, but the time expired.

    Morales looked to get Idiris down to start the second round, but Idiris managed to do well with defending those attempts. But as Idiris continued to look for big moves, Morales strongly worked him over with boxing, eventually landing a body blow that did big damage. Morales dropped Idiris and looked for a banana split, but he lost it.

    While he was on the bottom, Morales locked up a tight triangle choke, scoring the submission and the TUF 33 flyweight title.

    Joseph Morales Becomes TUF 33 Flyweight Winner

    Morales, a member of Team Sonnen, arrived at the final fight through victories over Eduardo Henrique and Imanol Rodriguez (the latter in controversial fashion). Before TUF, Morales had a prior stint in the UFC, going 1-2 with a submission of Roberto Sanchez and losses to Deiveson Figueriedo and Eric Shelton. Since his UFC release, he’s won three straight.

    Idiris, a member of Team Cormier, reached the TUF Finale thanks to defeating Furkatbek Yokubov and Roybert Echerverria. Prior to his time on TUF, Idiris went 10-0 as a pro while fighting exclusively for Nazia FC, picking up their flyweight title in the process.

    The TUF 33 welterweight winner will be determined at Noche UFC 3 in a fight featuring Team Cormier’s Rodrigo Sezinando and Daniil Donchenko. The fight was scheduled for tonight but was postponed due to Sezinando suffering an injury.

  • ‘Bloody Hell He’s The One’ – Fans React To Moses Itauma Stopping Dillian Whyte With Explosive Round 1 KO

    ‘Bloody Hell He’s The One’ – Fans React To Moses Itauma Stopping Dillian Whyte With Explosive Round 1 KO

    Moses Itauma just issued a stark warning to the heavyweight division with his performance.

    On Saturday night at the anb Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Itauma secured the biggest victory of his career to date, demolishing former interim WBC heavyweight champion Dillian Whyte with a vicious first-round knockout.

    The 20-year-old Slovakian-born Brit wasted no time asserting himself, storming forward from the opening exchange. Whyte struggled to settle in before a blistering flurry rattled him and drove him into the corner. A clean shot upstairs left “The Villain” stumbling, his balance deserting him as he tried to fight back.

    Moses Itauma smelled the finish and unleashed another merciless onslaught, his punches crashing through until Whyte collapsed under the weight of the assault. Though he attempted to rise, his legs betrayed him, forcing the referee to step in and wave off the bout before the round’s second minute expired.

    Moses Itauma Stops Dillian Whyte With Explosive Round 1 KO
    Image: Dazn Boxing

    Fans Erupt Over Moses Itauma’s First Round KO Of Dillian Whyte

    Boxing fans were left in awe as Moses Itauma dismantled Dillian Whyte with a commanding knockout, flooding social media with reactions. Many praised the 20-year-old prodigy’s performance and celebrated what they believe is the dawn of a bright future for the rising heavyweight star.

    With his emphatic win over Whyte, Itauma pushed his flawless professional record to 13-0, boasting 11 knockouts along the way. The young phenom has already dispatched seasoned names such as Mike Balogun, Demsey McKean, and others, further cementing his reputation as one of boxing’s most dangerous rising forces.

    Moses Itauma
    Image: @m.itauma/Instagram
  • UFC 319 Results & Highlights: Khamzat Chimaev Decisions Dricus du Plessis

    UFC 319 Results & Highlights: Khamzat Chimaev Decisions Dricus du Plessis

    UFC 319 took place tonight from the United Center in Chicago, Illinois and MMA News has you covered with all the results and highlights! 

    In the main event, Dricus du Plessis looked to defend his middleweight title against Khamzat Chimaev. While in the co-main event, Lerone Murphy took on Aaron Pico in a featherweight matchup. 

    UFC 319 Results: Main Card

    • Middleweight Championship: Khamzat Chimaev def. Dricus du Plessis via unanimous decision (50-44×3) 
    • Featherweight: Lerone Murphy def. Aaron Pico via KO: R1, 3.21 
    • Welterweight: Carlos Prates de. Geoff Neal via KO: R1, 4.59
    • Middleweight: Michael Page def. Jared Cannonier via unanimous decision (29-28×3)
    • Flyweight: Tim Elliott def. Kai Asakura via submission: R2, 4.39

     
    Preliminary Card

    • Middleweight: Baysangur Susurkaev def. Eric Nolan via submission: R2, 2.01
    • Middleweight: Michał Oleksiejczuk def. Gerald Meerschaert via TKO: R1, 3.03
    • Women’s Strawweight: Loopy Godinez def. Jessica Andrade via unanimous decision (29-28×3)
    • Lightweight: Alexander Hernandez def. Chase Hooper via TKO: R1, 4.58

    Early Preliminary Card

    • Lightweight: Drakkar Klose def. Edson Barboza via unanimous decision (29-28×3)
    • Women’s Flyweight: Karine Silva def. Dione Barbosa via unanimous decision (29-28×3)

    Flyweight: TUF Finale: Joseph Morales def. Alibi Idiris via submission: R2, 3.04

    Preliminary Card Highlights

    Joseph Morales def. Alibi Idiris

    In the opening bout of UFC 319, Joseph Morales won The Ultimate Fighter flyweight finale with a submission in round two.

    Alexander Hernandez def. Chase Hooper

    Alexander Hernandez earned a first-round TKO.

    Michał Oleksiejczuk def. Gerald Meerschaert

    Michał Oleksiejczuk picked up a first-round TKO in this middleweight bout.

    Baysangur Susurkaev def. Eric Nolan

    Baysangur Susurkaev earned a submission win on his UFC debut.

    Main Card Highlights

    Tim Elliott def. Kai Asakura

    Tim Elliott submitted Kai Asakura in the second round of this flyweight bout.

    Michael Page def. Jared Cannonier

    In this middleweight bout, Michael Page got it done on the scorecards against Jared Cannonier.

    Carlos Prates de. Geoff Neal

    Carlos Prates got the KO right at the end of round one.

    Lerone Murphy def. Aaron Pico

    In the co-main event, Lerone Murphy earned a huge KO in the first round.

    Khamzat Chimaev def. Dricus du Plessis

    In the main event, Khamzat Chimaev earned a unanimous decision to win the middleweight title.

  • Francis Ngannou’s Inactivity Prompts MMA Analyst To Urge PFL To Scrap Heavyweight Division

    Francis Ngannou’s Inactivity Prompts MMA Analyst To Urge PFL To Scrap Heavyweight Division

    Francis Ngannou’s inactivity compels an MMA analyst to advise PFL for drastic measures with the heavyweight division.

    “The Predator” inked his deal with PFL in May 2023, securing several exclusive perks, including being named chairman of PFL Africa with the responsibility of spearheading MMA’s growth across the continent. However, when PFL Africa finally launched with a sold-out debut in Cape Town this July, Ngannou was conspicuously absent.

    Francis Ngannou
    Image: @francis_ngannou/X

    Francis Ngannou’s absence from the Cape Town debut didn’t sit well with PFL chairman Donn Davis, who openly voiced his disappointment over the Cameroonian’s no-show at such a landmark event.

    John McCarthy Suggests PFL Should Shut Down Heavyweight Division With Francis Ngannou On Sidelines

    During a recent episode of the Weighing In podcast alongside former UFC fighter Josh Thomson, “Big” John McCarthy criticized Francis Ngannou for failing to live up to his PFL deal, pointing out that “The Predator” has fought just once in the past two years.

    With Ngannou stuck on the sidelines, the veteran MMA analyst argued that the PFL heavyweight division lacks the depth to justify its existence and suggested the promotion should instead invest its resources into other weight classes.

    “It’s a glamour division with no talent,” McCarthy said. “Let’s just be honest, OK? Why do you have it? You have the ability to put in a flyweight division. You finally put in the bantamweights: Way to go. That was a smart thing. You’ve got some really good, talented people in that. Open up the 125-pound division. Take the heavyweights, get rid of it.

    “Be honest, (the UFC’s) whole (heavyweight) lineup, it’s just not that good. You can take a look at the PFL’s lineup. Yes, Francis is a good fighter… Get rid of it. All it does is cost you way more money than it’s worth for your promotion. Get rid of the heavyweights, put in all the other weight classes. Have 125, ’35, ’45, ’55 – you’ll have it all the way to 205. You don’t need the heavyweights because they’re not doing anything for you, and Francis is not doing anything as far as what he was supposedly contracted for.”

    Francis Ngannou’s lone outing inside the SmartCage came at PFL Super Fights: Battle of the Giants in October 2024, where he stopped Renan Ferreira via first-round TKO to capture the PFL super heavyweight title.

    Since parting ways with the UFC, however, “The Predator” has shifted his focus to boxing, suffering back-to-back defeats in high-profile bouts against Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

    PFL heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou
    Image: @francisngannou/Instagram
  • Joe Rogan Wonders How Khamzat Chimaev’s Cardio Will Fare Against Dricus Du Plessis At UFC 319

    Joe Rogan Wonders How Khamzat Chimaev’s Cardio Will Fare Against Dricus Du Plessis At UFC 319

    Joe Rogan is skeptical about Khamzat Chimaev’s endurance.

    Chimaev is locked in to headline UFC 319 this Saturday at the United Center in Chicago, where he will challenge reigning middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis for the title.

    Although “Borz” remains undefeated in his professional career, he has only gone the distance twice in the UFC. In both bouts, Chimaev faced significant challenges, and as the fights progressed into the later rounds, he appeared to fade, raising questions about the durability of his cardio.

    Meeting Death Created Khamzat Chimaev as We Know Him Today If you're not ready to die when it comes, you'll be scared

    Joe Rogan Questions Whether Khamzat Chimaev Can Last Against Dricus Du Plessis

    During a recent episode of his JRE MMA Show, Joe Rogan shared his insights on the highly anticipated clash between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev. The veteran commentator also discussed the undefeated Russian’s preparation for UFC 319, discussing whether “Borz” has made any gains in endurance while training with renowned conditioning coach Sam Calavitta.

    “What’s going to be interesting is if it gets into deep water, because I know he started training with Calvita—for his conditioning,” Rogan said. “He went to Sam Calvita who trained TJ Dillashaw, works with Aaron Pico, Arman Tsarukyan’s doing it with him, too. And that guy is a legend, man… He’s using real science to do it. This is the first time he’s ever been through a camp like this where he’s coming in fresh, where he’s not overtrained.”

    Rogan also questioned how Khamzat Chimaev’s cardio would hold up in championship rounds, warning that Du Plessis could become a serious threat late in the fight.

    “That’s the question—is can he sprint for five rounds? ‘Cause we know DDP can. Him and Sean Strickland, they were ready to have heart attacks at the end of that fight. Getting his nose busted like that and still staying and fighting with staph. He had staph. He had staph through the second fight. That’s why he was listless. He was on antibiotics and everything. He was all messed up.”

    “Borz” enters UFC 319 riding a first-round submission win over Robert Whittaker at UFC 308 in October of last year. Chimaev currently holds a perfect 14-0 professional record, with 12 victories coming by stoppage.

    It is a problem - Khamzat Chimaev Winning The UFC Middleweight Throne is a Promotional Disaster, According to UFC Veterans



  • Patricio Pitbull Reportedly Booked To Face Promising New Signee At UFC Paris On Sept. 6

    Patricio Pitbull Reportedly Booked To Face Promising New Signee At UFC Paris On Sept. 6

    Patricio Pitbull will reportedly return for his third UFC fight of the year.

    According to Maîtres Fumiers on Instagram, Pitbull is expected to face promotional newcomer Losene Keita at UFC Paris on September 6 inside the Accor Arena in France.

    The upcoming Fight Night will be headlined by a pivotal middleweight showdown between Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho, with potential title implications on the line. Meanwhile, the main card will also feature Benoît Saint Denis facing rising talent Mauricio Ruffy in a lightweight showdown.

    UFC Paris Poster
    Image: UFC.com

    How Does Patricio Pitbull’s Record Compare To Losene Keita’s Ahead Of UFC Paris?

    Patricio Pitbull kicked off his UFC journey earlier this year at UFC 314, facing former interim featherweight champion and suffering a one-sided unanimous decision loss. The former Bellator two division titleholder bounced back at UFC 318 last month, reclaiming victory with a hard-fought decision over Dan Ige.

    Pitbull boasts a professional MMA record of 37-8, with an impressive 24 of those victories earned via stoppage.

    Meanwhile, Losene Keita, who officially signed a UFC contract on Friday, is a two-division champion in OKTAGON. “Black Panther” enters UFC Paris on a five-fight winning streak, having last competed at OKTAGON 65 in December 2024, where he secured a second-round TKO over Ronald Paradeiser to successfully defend his lightweight title.

    Keita currently holds a 16-1 professional record, with 10 of those victories coming by way of knockout.

    Patricio Pitbull vs. Losene Keita set for UFC Paris
    Images: @patriciopitbull/@keitaplusser/Instagram
  • Joe Rogan Hopes UFC Maintains ESPN Ties Despite Historic Paramount+ Agreement

    Joe Rogan Hopes UFC Maintains ESPN Ties Despite Historic Paramount+ Agreement

    Joe Rogan hopes UFC’s latest deal won’t sever ties with its longtime partner.

    The UFC’s exclusive five-year rights agreement with ESPN is set to conclude at the close of 2025. The promotion has already locked in its next landmark deal with a seven-year, $7.7 billion U.S. broadcasting partnership with Paramount Skydance Corporation.

    During its partnership with the UFC, ESPN showcased the promotion’s full slate of events across both its television network and the ESPN+ streaming platform, while holding exclusive rights to distribute pay-per-views.

    The sports media powerhouse also delivered extensive UFC coverage and featured several former fighters as analysts and commentators. However, with the UFC now shifting to a new broadcast home, questions remain about how ESPN’s role in covering the sport will evolve moving forward.

    UFC-ESPN broadcast deal to conclude at the end of 2025
    Image: ESPN.com

    Joe Rogan Wants UFC To Keep ESPN Association Despite Paramount+ Switch In 2026

    During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, the veteran UFC commentator weighed in on the promotion’s new broadcasting deal with Paramount+. While Joe Rogan voiced his enthusiasm for the partnership set to kick off next year, he also admitted he hopes the UFC won’t sever its relationship with ESPN, which he sees as a crucial bridge to casual sports fans.

    The 58-year-old acclaimed podcaster emphasized that ESPN remains a vital gateway for introducing new audiences to the world of MMA.

    “I’m kind of bummed out, and I hope they don’t lose the relationship that they had with ESPN with all their MMA shows,” Joe Rogan said. “I hope they don’t go, like, ‘F**k them. They went to Paramount.’ I hope it’s a mutually beneficial thing, like the UFC at least does some content still on ESPN, because I think that’s also a big factor in pulling people from casual viewers that watch other sports that might occasionally watch a UFC fight and then they see, like, Dustin Poirier vs. Max Holloway and they’re like, ‘Holy sh*t.’

    “And then they’re hooked. Having that coverage on SportsCenter, that shit’s huge. Having those post-fight shows on ESPN+, that sh*t is huge for the real dorks like me, that’s huge.”

    As part of the new agreement, Paramount+ will become the primary U.S. destination for all 13 numbered UFC pay-per-view cards and 30 Fight Night events annually. Every fight will stream live on the platform, while select high-profile cards will also receive a primetime broadcast on Paramount’s flagship network, CBS.

    The UFC will also move away from its long-standing pay-per-view model, making every event accessible to Paramount+ subscribers. However, UFC CEO Dana White has hinted that the promotion may roll out special “one-off” PPV cards on rare occasions.

    UFC Octagon
    Image: UFC.com


  • Why is Dricus du Plessis Underdog Against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319? UFC Veteran Argues

    Why is Dricus du Plessis Underdog Against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319? UFC Veteran Argues

    Dricus du Plessis is a betting underdog this weekend as he steps into the cage against Khamzat Chimaev. DDP being seen as an underdog at UFC 319 as he enters the cage in Chicago on August 16th to defend his middleweight crown has drawn the attention of many, including a former multi-time UFC middleweight title challenger.

    Chael Sonnen recently took the time to discuss the oddsmakers perceptions of Saturday night’s main event with a localized focus on DDP’s career but also on a more macro view of the sport. While discussing instances where du Plessis has been an underdog before only to shock the broader MMA world and also observing how the public has historically looked at certain stylistic matchups, Sonnen said,

    “I think you just found out how good Dricus is. I think that’s what happened here. And I accuse you of that because I feel it, too. But I can’t identify it for you. I can’t verbalize it for you. Dricus fought Izzy and he showed a couple of things ever so slight. To get Izzy tired is hard to do and Dricus did. There’s nothing more intimidating than a guy that can weaponize pace, and we saw that he did it and he struck with Izzy, so all of a sudden you got to check off that box.”

    Dricus du Plessis’ stand up and Khamzat Chimaev’s grappling

    When touching on how public perception on upcoming fights has largely leaned toward particular approaches over other stylistic frameworks in the context of the Dricus du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev betting line, Sonnen continued,

    “Never in history, and I’m going back to 1993, has DraftKings favored the striker over the grappler. Not a literal statement, but close enough. So Dricus showed you what a great and well-conditioned striker he is. When has that ever made you change your bet when you’re taking on one of the great grapplers ever? Go all the way back to ’93. Go all the way back to Royce and Severn. Go to Shamrock and tell me what you were so impressed with those guys.“

  • “The Best Lightweight In PFL” – Fans React To Alfie Davis Pulling Off Massive Upset To Defeat Gadzhi Rabadanov And Claim Lightweight PFL World Tournament Title

    “The Best Lightweight In PFL” – Fans React To Alfie Davis Pulling Off Massive Upset To Defeat Gadzhi Rabadanov And Claim Lightweight PFL World Tournament Title

    Gadzhi Rabadanov’s desires for a second straight PFL lightweight title are for naught. Alfie Davis put on an excellent striking performance to outlast Rabadanov’s grappling-heavy efforts to claim the 2025 PFL World Tournament lightweight title in the main event of the PFL’s card in Charlotte, North Carolina.

    The fight opened with a tactical first round, with Davis working kicks from range as Rabadanov tried to pressure. Raabdanov was trying to overwhelm Davis with his takedown attempts and grappling, but Davis executed well on his high kicks and body shots.

    Rabadanov took control in the second round, scoring an early takedown and imposing his will from the top position. He stayed on top for most of the frame, landing body shots and advancing through half guard. Davis rebounded with a dynamic striking effort in the third round, working combinations and scoring in the exchanges, in particular landing kicks and sharp elbows.

    Rabadanov repeated his second-round performance in round four, but Davis’ sharp striking and tagging of Rabadanov helped him secure the fifth round, resulting in all three judges awarding 48-47 scores and the PFL tournament title to Davis.

    Alfie Davis Claims 2025 PFL Lightweight World Tournament Title With Decision Over Gadzhi Rabadanov

    Rabadanov reached his second straight PFL lightweight final thanks to finishes of Marc Diakiese and Kevin Lee.

    Davis’ final spot was secured thanks to victories over Clay Collard and Brent Primus.

  • “The Epitome Of A Timeless Fighter” – Fans React As Liz Carmouche Crushes Jena Bishop With Devastating Left Hand To Claim Women’s Flyweight PFL World Tournament Title

    “The Epitome Of A Timeless Fighter” – Fans React As Liz Carmouche Crushes Jena Bishop With Devastating Left Hand To Claim Women’s Flyweight PFL World Tournament Title

    Liz Carmouche’s legacy grows following the PFL World Tournament event in Charlotte, North Carolina, as she claimed the women’s flyweight tournament gold with a knockout of Jena Bishop in the co-main event.

    The opening round saw both women trading jabs, with Bishop landing combinations to the body while Carmouche answered with steady low kicks. Bishop pressed forward with volume and clinch control, but Carmouche battled back with short strikes inside and a late flurry.

    Round two saw the drama go up to another level, with the fight going to the ground after a caught kick by Bishop. Bishop nearly locked up an armbar and then transitioned to a triangle choke. Carmouche escaped and threatened her own submissions. The round ended with the two trading heavy shots and battling for positional control.

    After a slow start to the third round, with Bishop trying to establish her range again, Carmouche exploded with a big left hand that dropped Bishop for the finish.

    Liz Carmouche KOs Jena Bishop For 2025 PFL Women’s Flyweight World Tournament Title

    After falling short in last year’s women’s flyweight competition, Carmouche reached the finals this year through wins over Ilara Joanne and Elora Dana.

    Bishop also fell just short of the final last year, losing to eventual champion Dakota Ditcheva. She reached the final with wins over Kana Watanabe and Ekaterina Shakalova.

  • “Contender Series For Him In 2 Years” – Fans React As Marcirley Alves Staves Off Justin Wetzell For 2025 PFL Bantamweight World Tournament Title

    “Contender Series For Him In 2 Years” – Fans React As Marcirley Alves Staves Off Justin Wetzell For 2025 PFL Bantamweight World Tournament Title

    In a battle of two men who started the PFL bantamweight tournament as alternates before being official participants, Marcirley Alves managed to outwork Justin Wetzell in a featured bout at the PFL World Tournament card in Charlotte, North Carolina, to become the 2025 PFL World Tournament champion at bantamweight.

    Alves started strong, finding his range early with combinations, including a sharp left that caught Wetzell in the opening round. Wetzell tried to slow the pace, but Alves’ striking volume and takedown defense controlled most of the fight’s first half.

    Momentum shifted in round four, as Wetzell finally secured takedowns and pressured Alves, mixing knees and body shots. Wetzell took his grappling pressure and combined it with clinch pressure in the fifth.

    Wetzell then landed a huge knee in the fifth that dropped Alves. He nearly scored a D’Arce choke, but Alves narrowly escaped. Wetzell pushed forward with flurries and cage control, though Alves stayed in control and fired back.

    Marcirley Alves Defeats Justin Wetzell For PFL Bantamweight World Tournament Title

    Alves reached the final with a finish of Leandro Higo in the first round and a win over former Bellator champion Brent Primus in the semifinals.

    Wetzell, who entered with 11 wins in his last 12, secured his spot in the final through wins over Kasum Kasumov and Mando Gutierrez.

  • UFC 319 Betting Odds: Current Favorites For Du Plessis vs. Chimaev And More

    UFC 319 Betting Odds: Current Favorites For Du Plessis vs. Chimaev And More

    UFC 319 is almost here, and we here at MMA News are here to provide you the latest on betting odds for the card.

    The card takes place from the United Center in Chicago, Illinois, on Saturday, August 16. The pay-per-view main card portion of the event will start at 10PM ET/7PM PT, with preliminary action starting at 6PM ET/3PM PT.

    The headline attraction for the event will feature Dricus Du Plessis taking on Khamzat Chimaev with the UFC middleweight championship on the line.

    The co-main event will see the undefeated Lerone Murphy welcoming Aaron Pico to the Octagon.

    The pay-per-view card will also feature Geoff Neal facing Carlos Prates, Jared Cannonier clashing with Michael “Venom” Page, and Tim Elliott meeting Kai Asakura.

    UFC 319: Du Plessis vs. Chimaev Betting Odds

    Listed below are the latest betting odds for UFC 319 as of August 15 at 9:30pm ET, courtesy of DraftKings.

    Main Card:

    • Middleweight Championship: Dricus Du Plessis (+215) vs. Khamzat Chimaev (-265)
    • Featherweight: Lerone Murphy (+154) vs. Aaron Pico (-185)
    • Welterweight: Geoff Neal (+180) vs. Carlos Prates (-218)
    • Middleweight: Jared Cannonier (+180) vs. Michael Page (-218)
    • Flyweight: Tim Elliott (+250) vs. Kai Asakura (-310)

    Preliminary Card:

    • Welterweight: Baysangur Susurkaev (-950) vs. Eric Nolan (+625)
    • Middleweight: Gerald Meerschaert (+180) vs. Michał Oleksiejczuk (-210)
    • Women’s Strawweight: Jessica Andrade (+120) vs. Loopy Godinez (-142)
    • Lightweight: Chase Hooper (-325) vs. Alexander Hernandez (+260)

    Early Preliminary Card:

    • Lightweight: Edson Barboza (-130) vs. Drakkar Klose (+110)
    • Women’s Flyweight: Karine Silva (-198) vs. Dione Barbosa (+164)
    • Flyweight: TUF Finale: Alibi Idiris (-455) vs. Joseph Morales (+350)
  • PFL World Tournament Week 9 Results & Highlights

    PFL World Tournament Week 9 Results & Highlights

    The second of three events to mark the conclusion of the PFL’s 2025 World Tournaments goes down in Charlotte, North Carolina tonight — and MMA News has you covered with all the action.

    The World Tournament is the spiritual successor to the season-and-the-playoffs has had since its inaugural season in 2018. As part of the changes in format to the PFL upon the official folding of the Bellator brand earlier this year, the PFL changed its global season to a single-elimination tournament format, adding more weight classes, eight fighters per weight class.

    First-round action took place in April and May, with June — previously hosting the second leg of the regular season — hosting semifinal action. This month will see the conclusion of these tournaments, with eight winners receiving PFL World Tournament title belts and $100,000.

    This evening will be headlined by the lightweight tournament final between defending champion Gadzhi Rabadanov and Alfie Davis. Rabadanov, who defeated Brent Primus to claim the 2024 lightweight title, looks to become just one of a handful of PFL fighters to become a back-to-back tournament champion, let alone a two-time PFL tournament champion. Rabadanov made it to the finals with a pair of first-round finishes against Marc Diakiese and Kevin Lee. Davis, meanwhile, advanced here with a first-round knockout of Clay Collard and a decision win over Primus.

    The co-main event will be the women’s flyweight tournament final between Liz Carmouche and Jena Bishop. Carmouche, the former Bellator women’s flyweight champion, reached the finals through an 85-second finish of Ilara Joanne and a decision over Elora Dana. Bishop reached with a unanimous decision over Kana Watanabe and a second-round submission of Ekaterina Shakalova.

    Also featured will be the bantamweight tournament final featuring Marcirley Alves and Justin Wetzell. Alves made it to the final through decision wins over Leandro Higo and Jake Hadley. Wetzell scored decision wins over Kasum Kasumov and Mando Gutierrez.

    2025 PFL World Tournament Week 9 Results & Highlights

    Main Card:

    • Lightweight Final: Alfie Davis def. Gadzhi Rabadanov via unanimous decision (48-47 x3)
    • Women’s Flyweight Final: Liz Carmouche def. Jena Bishop via KO (R3, 2:56)
    • Bantamweight Final: Marcirley Alves def. Justin Wetzell via unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47 x2)
    • Lightweight: Robert Watley def. Mads Burnell via TKO (R3, 2:43)

    Preliminary Card:

    • Women’s Flyweight: Juliana Velasquez def. Ekaterina Shakalova via unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)
    • Lightweight: Biaggio Ali Walsh def. Adryan Grundy via TKO (R3, 3:23)
    • Women’s Flyweight: Sabrinna de Sousa def. Saray Orozco via unanimous decision (30-27 x3)
    • Bantamweight: Renat Khavalov def. Vilson Ndregjoni via TKO (R1, 2:49)
    • Welterweight: Chris Mixan def. Kendly St. Louis via TKO (R1, 4:36)
    • Featherweight: Damian Nelson def. Isaiah Diggs via split decision (29-28 x2, 28-29)

    Damian Nelson vs. Isaiah Diggs

    Kendly St. Louis vs. Chris Mixan

    Renat Khavalov vs. Vilson Ndregjoni

    Sabrinna de Sousa vs. Saray Orozco

    Biaggio Ali Walsh vs. Adryan Grundy

    Juliana Velasquez vs. Ekaterina Shakalova

    Mads Burnell vs. Robert Watley

    Marcirley Alves vs. Justin Wetzell

    Liz Carmouche vs. Jena Bishop

    Gadzhi Rabadanov vs. Alfie Davis

  • BKB Champs “Better Get to Work” With “Very Powerful Puncher” Alberto Blas Debuting, Says BKB 44 Fighter

    BKB Champs “Better Get to Work” With “Very Powerful Puncher” Alberto Blas Debuting, Says BKB 44 Fighter

    BKB 44: Denver Brawl V is a stacked event for bare knuckle boxing enthusiasts with the promotional debut of Alberto Blas standing out on the card’s bout sheet. Tommy Turner is a multi-time title challenger within BKB and faces Michael Santos at BKB 44 on Saturday, August 16th.

    Turner appeared on Bare Knuckle Bowker to discuss not just his own intriguing fight but the looming organization entry point for the undefeated bare knuckle standout, Blas.

    When touching on one of the more intriguing debuts we’ve seen in BKB recently with Alberto Blas coming over and signing with the company, leaving as BKFC’s reigning bantamweight champion to where they’ve since vacated that belt, Turner said,

    “Yeah, I’ve seen a little bit of [Alberto] Blas and he’s a very impressive fighter. It seems like he’s, for that weight, he’s a very powerful puncher. He knows how to land it, set it up and land those shots. So, I think whoever, I don’t know who the champion is at that weight, but whoever it is, they better get to work because I think he’s definitely, probably coming for it.”

    Alberto Blas potential path toward gold in the BKB Mighty Trigon

    In the weight category that Alberto Blas will ply his trade in, the champion is Julio Tanori and the interim lightweight champion is Jarod Grant.

    When discussing the notion of Blas potentially fighting the victor of that Tanori vs. Grant clash and how that would be an interesting fight, Tommy Turner stated,

    “Oh, yeah, absolutely. So Julio [Tanori], that’s one of the toughest dudes on the roster. Him and [Mark] Irwin, I mean that fight between them just kind of blew my mind, really. Then [Jarod] Grant, that’s a bad dude as well. So I think a fight between any [of] those three guys, that could be fight of the year. You know what I mean? So I look forward to seeing one of those fights, for sure.”

  • Watch Dricus Du Plessis, Khamzat Chimaev Face Off At UFC 319 Ceremonial Weigh-Ins

    Watch Dricus Du Plessis, Khamzat Chimaev Face Off At UFC 319 Ceremonial Weigh-Ins

    We’re about 24 hours away from UFC 319, and MMA News is here to bring you the video from the ceremonial weigh-ins for the card!

    UFC 319 takes place on August 16 from the United Center in Chicago, Illinois.

    The main event of the evening will feature Dricus Du Plessis defending the UFC middleweight championship against Khamzat Chimaev. Du Plessis, unbeaten in the UFC, originally claimed the championship with a decision win over Sean Strickland at UFC 297. He has since defended the title against Israel Adesanya and Strickland at UFC 305 and UFC 312, respectively. Chimaev, who hasn’t lost in MMA, secured this title shot with a finish of another former champion in Robert Whittaker at UFC 308.

    The co-main event will feature the UFC debut of Aaron Pico, as the Bellator veteran faces undefeated featherweight contender Lerone Murphy.

    The rest of the main card sees Geoff Neal face Carlos Prates, Jared Cannonier taking on Michael “Venom” Page, and Tim Elliott going toe-to-toe with Kai Asakura.

    One bout was scrapped on weigh-in day following Bryan Battle’s significant weight miss. But all other bouts are on!

    The ceremonial weigh-ins present the last opportunity for opponents to face off before they meet inside the Octagon. Check them out below via the UFC’s official YouTube channel!

    UFC 319 Ceremonial Weigh-In Video

  • BKB 44 will “be a rough night for” Michael Santos, per Tommy Turner

    BKB 44 will “be a rough night for” Michael Santos, per Tommy Turner

    Tommy Turner will collide with replacement opponent Michael Santos at BKB 44: Denver Brawl V on August 16th. Turner appeared on Bare Knuckle Bowker to touch on initially being lined up to face former BKB light heavyweight champ Gregoris Cisneros on this card before international travel complications scrapped that plan.

    When discussing the adaptability shown with taking on Santos now and doing so in a higher weight class to boot, Turner said,

    “Yeah. So, you know, I started this camp at 226. I’ve had plenty of time, right, to get down because I took a long break after my last fight, which was LT [Nelson]. I needed to sit around and think and and figure out the next step. So, it’s been what, 14 months since my last fight, roughly. Yeah it’s just, it’s good to be back. But we started the cut.”

    “It was supposed to be 168 and then we got news about Gregoris and I was at about 185 at that point in time. They gave me somebody else and the guy turned it down. I don’t even remember the name. Then they said Santos will take it. It’s at cruiserweight. So, we agreed on it and I’ve been able to put on a little bit more weight. Keep my weight a little higher and eat a full meal. So, that’s been nice.”

    BKB 44 bout prediction from Tommy Turner

    When providing his thoughts on Michael Santos’ skills and spotless bare-knuckle record so far ahead of their foray into the BKB Mighty Trigon, Turner stated,

    “I’ve just seen him with Art [Parker] and he seems like a powerful, a very powerful brawler. A very tough guy and he’s a veteran. So, I know he’s put in his work and I respect anyone that served our country, right? So, I mean I’m a fifth generation Army brat myself. So, I’ve got nothing but respect for veterans.”

    “I know I think he was a Marine, but either way, respect to him. I think it’ll be a great fight. But I just think, I’m taller. I feel way stronger at this weight. I was knocking everyone out at 160 that I beat. So, we’re going to have more power. I still have the speed and I think it’ll be a rough night for him.”

  • Joe Rogan Predicts UFC’s $7.7 Billion Paramount Plus Deal Will Send MMA ‘Through The Roof’

    Joe Rogan Predicts UFC’s $7.7 Billion Paramount Plus Deal Will Send MMA ‘Through The Roof’

    Joe Rogan is bullish on the UFC’s new broadcast deal.

    The UFC’s exclusive five-year rights deal with ESPN will wrap up at the end of 2025, and the promotion has already lined up its next historic chapter with a seven-year, $7.7 billion U.S. broadcasting partnership with Paramount Skydance Corporation.

    Paramount+ will serve as the premier U.S. home for all 13 marquee numbered UFC cards and 30 Fight Night events each year. Every bout will stream on the platform, with select blockbuster cards also airing simultaneously on Paramount’s flagship network, CBS.

    The biggest shake-up for fans sees the UFC abandoning the traditional pay-per-view model, putting every event within reach for Paramount+ subscribers. In the U.S., plans range from $7.99 to $12.99 a month for the ad-free tier that also includes Showtime. Still, UFC CEO Dana White has teased the possibility of occasional “one-off” pay-per-view events.

    UFC CEO Dana White
    Image: UFC/YouTube

    Joe Rogan Sees UFC-Paramount+ Move As A Massive Win For MMA Fans

    During a recent episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, the long-time UFC commentator shared his take on the promotion’s blockbuster deal with Paramount+. Rogan believes replacing the conventional pay-per-view model with an all-access streaming approach could be a game-changer, drawing in a wave of new fans and expanding the reach of MMA to a broader, more diverse audience than ever before.

    “Through the roof,” Joe Rogan said. “And it’s a super smart move for Paramount. What a great move to not just have the UFC for seven years, but to have it for free. How much does it cost a month? Ten bucks, let’s say it’s ten bucks. That’s crazy. That’s a $120 a year, you can watch every UFC pay-per-view? Two UFC pay-per-views is, like, 140 bucks, right? Isn’t it? Aren’t they, like, $70? So you get all of them. Everything’s free? That’s incredible. This sport is going to go f**king hypernova.”

    Joe Rogan, who first joined the UFC in 1997 as a backstage interviewer at UFC 12, has witnessed the promotion’s evolution through every major broadcast era, from Spike TV to FOX to ESPN.

    Now, as Dana White confirmed, the 58-year-old MMA mainstay isn’t going anywhere; Rogan will be front and center as the UFC enters its new chapter with Paramount.