MMA News

Tag: Daniel Cormier

  • Daniel Cormier Has A Take On The Ronda Rousey Win That Hunter Campbell Is Going To Love

    Daniel Cormier says Ronda Rousey’s 17-second submission of Gina Carano at MVP MMA 1 actually vindicated UFC chief business officer Hunter Campbell, who had been publicly criticized for blocking the fight from happening in the UFC.

    Cormier addressed the result on his YouTube channel, pushing back on the narrative that Campbell made the wrong call.

    “If I’m Hunter Campbell, who has been getting beat up in the media because he didn’t want to make this fight, I don’t know that last night did anything to say that he made the wrong decision because of the way that it ended, and that’s just me being 1,000 percent truthful. Had you had a great fight, maybe people may have questioned Hunter’s decision. But again, Hunter has made good decisions time and time again, and I believe that last night showed that he made another one by not paying a boat load of money to make that event.”

    Rousey had publicly blamed Campbell for preventing the fight from taking place in the UFC, claiming Dana White was interested in making it happen. The fight ultimately landed with Jake Paul’s Most Valuable Promotions on Netflix, where Rousey submitted Carano at 17 seconds of the first round.

  • Daniel Cormier Says Sean Strickland Made Key Mistake That Cost Him More Decisive Win Over Khamzat Chimaev

    Daniel Cormier Says Sean Strickland Made Key Mistake That Cost Him More Decisive Win Over Khamzat Chimaev

    Daniel Cormier believes Sean Strickland left points on the board against Khamzat Chimaev and could have won more decisively at UFC 328.

    Strickland edged Chimaev by split decision to claim the UFC middleweight title Saturday at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. Cormier acknowledged the upset but took issue with a key moment in the third round.

    “You got a Sean Strickland that got taken down in Round 1. Round 2 scored his own takedowns, Round 3 controlled the fight with the jab. Honestly, I thought Strickland made a mistake in Round 3 by not really pressing on the gas because I felt like Khamzat had a bit of an adrenaline dump. If he’d really pressed him, he really could have made Khamzat struggle down the stretch, but he didn’t.”

    Cormier said Strickland’s jab was the defining weapon of the fight despite Chimaev’s late pressure.

    “The way he was able to control the fight with that jab, showed you how good Sean Strickland is. The right hand seemed to be available, but he never really threw it. Round 3, 4, and 5, Khamzat Chimaev really got on the gas and started backing up Sean Strickland. But if you know scoring, octagon control is no longer a scoring criteria when judging fights. It’s damage, duration and dominance. Khamzat showed control when he got him down, but even with the six minutes of top time, Sean still outlanded him by 50 strikes, and a whole bunch of significant strikes.”

    Round 5 proved decisive, with two judges awarding it to Strickland. The new champion revealed he is carrying multiple shoulder injuries and plans to take time off.

  • Daniel Cormier Says Nobody Would Complain if Carlos Prates Got the Next Welterweight Title Shot

    Daniel Cormier Says Nobody Would Complain if Carlos Prates Got the Next Welterweight Title Shot

    Daniel Cormier watched Carlos Prates dismantle Jack Della Maddalena at UFC Perth and came away with one conclusion: the Brazilian is ready to fight for a world title right now.

    Speaking on his YouTube channel, Cormier offered a thorough breakdown of what Prates’ third-round stoppage of the former welterweight champion means for the division’s title picture.

    “Carlos Prates has now put himself on the short-list of fighters who could potentially challenge the champion, Islam Makhachev. Before he goes in there with Jack Della Maddalena, that happens when you’ve already got a victory over Leon Edwards, when you already have beaten guys like Geoff Neal and so many others on your way towards a fight with a former champion. He’s on a short list. He’s already close. You beat the former champion in the way that he beat Della Maddalena – because that was bad. That was bad. Honestly, when I was watching that from afar, I thought to myself — because I’ve never seen Jack just get beat on like that — ‘How does Prates win?’ going into the fight.”

    Cormier also identified a specific lesson in growth from the way Prates handled his main event opportunity compared to his previous stumble on the big stage.

    “That performance told me two things: One, Prates is ready to compete for the UFC championship. Two, Prates learned. The first time Prates did that, against Ian Garry, he froze. He froze. He did not fight well. Not this time, though. I watched him deliver at a level that tells me he’s championship-ready. Dude’s championship-ready. He’s championship-ready right now.”

    He acknowledged the crowded nature of the welterweight division while making clear he would not object to Prates leapfrogging the queue.

    “Here’s the issue though: The weight class is so stacked. It feels like it’s going to be Ian Garry, but if it was to be Prates after that? Nobody would complain. Nobody would complain, and I’ll tell you why: We just saw Islam beat Jack Della Maddalena in the way that he did. We saw him dominate Jack Della Maddalena to win the championship. The way Islam beat Jack was not nearly as impressive as what Carlos Prates did the other day. It was impressive. He made it look easy. But that, yesterday, was crazy. It looked like Della Maddalena didn’t belong in there with Prates.”

  • Daniel Cormier Warns Arman Tsarukyan Before He Ruins His UFC Title Shot

    Daniel Cormier Warns Arman Tsarukyan Before He Ruins His UFC Title Shot

    Daniel Cormier is urging Arman Tsarukyan to get out of his own way before he costs himself the UFC lightweight title shot he has been chasing for years.

    The former two-division champion addressed Tsarukyan’s recent pattern of incidents outside the Octagon in a video on his YouTube channel, telling the Armenian contender that he is finally close to getting what he wants but that one wrong move could send him back to square one.

    “Arman was in purgatory,” Cormier said. “It’s almost like the trust was gone. But you can start to rebuild that trust through competition. But it’s what he’s doing outside of the Octagon that is now making Arman Tsarukyan a guy — I’m telling you, I know this, I really know, Arman Tsarukyan is now starting to make himself undeniable through all the stuff he’s doing outside of the UFC.”

    Cormier said the window is open right now in a way it has not been since Tsarukyan was passed over for the interim title fight at UFC 311 in January, and that the priority has to be keeping it that way.

    “This is as close as he’s been since UFC 311. Everything is going great. I told his manager the other day, I said, ‘Just don’t f— this up. Don’t do one thing that kicks you backwards. He’s gotta be very careful. The thing the other day with American Airlines, for us that’s funny. But we need to make sure — Arman told me himself, ‘I’ll be a good boy.’ It’s funny to us, but he’s right at that point now where he’s gotta peel back a little bit and he’s gonna get exactly what he wants.”

    Tsarukyan’s track record of incidents outside the cage has been a recurring obstacle in his path to a title shot. He punched a fan at UFC 300, pulled out of UFC 311 on late notice, headbutted Dan Hooker at the UFC Qatar ceremonial weigh-ins last November, and was most recently removed from an American Airlines flight in Los Angeles after he and members of his team refused to take their seats while the aircraft was taxiing.

  • Jon Jones Calls Daniel Cormier ‘Crybaby B*tch’ in ALF Reality 3

    Jon Jones Calls Daniel Cormier ‘Crybaby B*tch’ in ALF Reality 3

    Former UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones recently reignited his long-standing rivalry with Daniel Cormier in newly released footage from ALF Reality 3. He called Cormier a “crybaby b—-” after the UFC Hall of Famer declined a wrestling match.

    The footage, released by ALF Reality, shows Jones addressing Cormier’s decision to avoid a grappling contest.

    Jones and Cormier’s Storied Rivalry

    Jones and Cormier have maintained their animosity despite both fighters moving on from their active rivalry years ago. Jones currently holds the UFC heavyweight title, while Cormier has transitioned to commentary and analysis roles.

    Jones teased competing against Cormier in either a Real American Freestyle wrestling match or a boxing fight since announcing his MMA retirement last year.

    Following a fallout with UFC CEO Dana White over his exclusion from the White House card, it remains unclear if Jones will make another comeback.

    Neither Jones nor Cormier has issued additional public statements regarding the exchange beyond what appears in the ALF Reality footage.

  • TUF Season 34 Set For June Release With UFC Hall Of Fame Coaches

    “The Ultimate Fighter” (TUF) is officially set to return for its 34th season, with two familiar faces stepping into coaching roles once again.

    The UFC has confirmed that Season 34 will premiere on June 14 on Paramount+, kicking off a new chapter for the long-running reality competition series.

    The upcoming “TUF” season will premiere on June 14, streaming on Paramount+, ahead of the highly anticipated UFC Freedom 250 event. New episodes will follow every Tuesday, continuing across a 12-episode run.

    This time around, coaching duties will be handled by UFC Hall of Famers Daniel Cormier and Michael Bisping, both of whom have become key voices on the promotion’s broadcast team in recent years.

    Season 34 will feature a mix of men’s bantamweight and women’s strawweight prospects, with 16 fighters competing for a coveted UFC contract. The format remains rooted in the show’s original concept, offering rising talent a pathway into the organization through competition and exposure.

    For “DC”, this marks another milestone. The former UFC two-division champion becomes the first coach in the show’s history to lead back-to-back seasons, having also served in that role last season. Overall, it will be his third stint as a coach on the series.

    Bisping, a former UFC middleweight champion and winner of the show himself (Season 3), also returns for his third appearance as a coach. His history with the series dates back to his own breakthrough moment, making his involvement come full circle.

    Over the years, the show has played a major role in shaping the UFC roster, producing several champions and top contenders. Names like Forrest Griffin, Rashad Evans, TJ Dillashaw, Robert Whittaker, Carla Esparza, and Rose Namajunas all emerged from the platform, highlighting its long-term impact on the sport.

  • Brendan Schaub Blasts Nate Diaz For Targeting Daniel Cormier – ‘Every Guy He Talks About Is Better’

    Brendan Schaub Blasts Nate Diaz For Targeting Daniel Cormier – ‘Every Guy He Talks About Is Better’

    Brendan Schaub has weighed in strongly on the ongoing back-and-forth between Nate Diaz and Daniel Cormier, and he’s made it clear where he stands.

    The recent feud kicked off after Diaz took aim at analysts, singling out Cormier, who responded by calling him “average.” That exchange quickly gained traction, but Schaub believes “The Stockton Slugger” picked the wrong target this time.

    Brendan Schaub Says Nate Diaz Crossed The Line Going At Daniel Cormier

    Speaking on his YouTube channel, Schaub didn’t hold back while defending the UFC Hall of Famer’s legacy and credentials.

    “I think for some people it works. Like, some people are like, ‘F*ck yeah, man, f*ck those guys.’ It’s his thing, and it’s working; he’s making money, so I don’t hate on him for any of that,” Schaub said. “The issue is these guys that he’s talking sh*t about are, if you know anything about the sport of mixed martial arts, every guy he talks shit about is a better fighter and has a better career. So that’s why he’s going for those guys. He’s just barking up the wrong tree when he talks sh*t to Daniel Cormier. You’re talking about MMA royalty.”

    The former UFC heavyweight fighter’s core argument centered around the difference between popularity and accomplishment. While Diaz has built a massive fanbase and delivered some of the sport’s most memorable moments, “Big Brown” insists that doesn’t automatically translate into all-time greatness.

    “So, Nate Diaz had a good career. Just so you’re aware, he will never make it to the Hall of Fame as an individual fighter,” Schaub said. “Now, maybe his fight against one of his previous opponents, maybe Conor McGregor, he might have a fight to make the Hall of Fame, but as far as him as individual accomplishments, he won’t make the UFC Hall of Fame. That’s just not real. That will never happen.”

    Schaub doubled down on the idea that the former UFC lightweight title challenger’s status comes more from star power than résumé, especially when compared to someone like “DC”, a former two-division champion who transitioned into one of the UFC’s leading analysts.

    The MMA fighter turned stand-up comedian also suggested Diaz may be taking analyst criticism too personally, rather than recognizing it as part of the job.

    “For him, he’s like, ‘Yo, these analysts breaking down fights, I don’t get it. F*ck these guys,’” Schaub explained. “Yeah, but they’re not criticizing you. It’s literally their job they’re getting paid for, so I think he takes it personal.”

  • Gable Steveson Shuts Down UFC Hall of Famer Over Jon Jones Criticism: ‘He’s Perfect’

    Gable Steveson Shuts Down UFC Hall of Famer Over Jon Jones Criticism: ‘He’s Perfect’

    Olympic Gold Medalist Gable Steveson has defended Jon Jones, calling the UFC legend “perfect” and backing their working relationship.

    The 25-year-old dismissed Daniel Cormier’s concerns about having Jon Jones as his coach. The 2020 Olympic gold medalist in freestyle wrestling is 3-0 in his MMA career, with all three wins coming via first-round knockout under Jones’ guidance.

    Cormier recently questioned whether Jones could provide the focused coaching Steveson needs to reach his potential. Speaking on The Ariel Helwani Show, the former two-division UFC champion expressed doubts about his former rival’s ability to serve as a primary coach.

    “I believe he has a real chance to be a world champion,” Cormier said. “I believe there are some factors that may slow down [that trajectory] — his coach is Jon Jones. As long as he lets the other coaches coach him, yes. But if Jon is actually coaching him, I don’t know.”

    Gable Steveson Praises Jones’ Mentorship

    The 25-year-old wrestler responded to the criticism by offering a strong defense of Jones’ coaching abilities. Steveson emphasized the value of learning from someone widely regarded as one of the greatest fighters in UFC history.

    “My relationship with him is everything,” Steveson told MMA Fighting. “I don’t think he does [get enough credit]. I think a lot of people overshadow [his abilities] with a lot of things with just fighting and a lot of the things he has going on. His mentorship is the best thing that we can have.”

    Steveson described Jones as the ideal coach for his transition into mixed martial arts.

    “He’s the best fighter of all-time leading a new guy to maybe be that person also. It’s a one of a kind opportunity and I’m all ears. I’m a sponge. Just soaking in all the knowledge that I can,” he said.

    Jones’ Coaching Approach

    The Olympic champion directly addressed concerns about Jones’ commitment and professionalism as a coach. Steveson painted a picture of a dedicated mentor who consistently shows up prepared to work.

    “He’s perfect. He’s everything you want in a coach. He shows up on time. He’s ready to work. He’s ready to work overtime, also,” Steveson said. “So the narrative of him being not there, his ego’s there — it’s non-existent with him.”

    Steveson is set to make his Real American Freestyle debut at the wrestling organization’s ninth event on May 30.

  • Daniel Cormier Fires Back at Nate Diaz: ‘You’re Average’

    Daniel Cormier Fires Back at Nate Diaz: ‘You’re Average’

    Daniel Cormier delivered a scathing response to recent criticism from Nate Diaz, directly comparing their fighting careers and calling the former UFC lightweight title challenger “average.” The former two-division UFC champion addressed Diaz’s comments in a YouTube video after the 40-year-old criticized MMA analysts during an appearance on Theo Von’s This Past Weekend podcast.

    Diaz had specifically targeted Cormier among other analysts during the podcast appearance, which also saw him discuss turning down a UFC return and criticizing several fighters, including Von’s friend Dustin Poirier. The comments prompted Cormier to break his previous stance of not comparing their careers.

    Cormier Counts Diaz’s Losses in Heated Response

    The former UFC champion addressed Diaz’s 20-13 MMA record in his video response, contrasting it with his own championship pedigree. Cormier, who held titles at both light heavyweight and heavyweight, emphasized the stark difference in their career trajectories.

    “It’s hard for me to fathom losing to 13 people in the sport that you chose and when I lost those fights, I was in my mid to late 30s and two dudes were able to get me,” Cormier said. “You lost to 13 people, you were losing fights in your 20s. You were in your absolute athletic prime in a sport that you chose and you got beat multiple times by all these people. That to me is crazy.”

    Cormier suggested there is an “ocean” between what they’ve achieved in their respective careers, despite Diaz’s financial success in recent years.

    Former Champion Questions Diaz’s Legacy

    The retired champion argued that Diaz’s stock only climbed significantly after his fight with Conor McGregor, calling into question the foundation of his popularity. Cormier made clear he wasn’t interested in comparing bank accounts between two wealthy fighters, but rather their accomplishments inside the cage.

    “Somebody got to check him,” Cormier continued. “At this point, he might need a handler because guess what? There’s a chance he goes and gets beat by Mike Perry. I was there when they had to throw the towel in for Josh Thomson. Reality is you’re average. You’ve always been. But, you’ve made a lot of money, that’s good. But, you’re average.”

    Cormier clarified multiple times during his response that he doesn’t dislike Diaz personally, but felt compelled to address the criticism after previously choosing not to engage. The former champion referenced Diaz’s 2013 stoppage loss to Josh Thomson as an example of his career struggles.

  • Daniel Cormier Recalls Knife Brawl During A Show: ‘Scared The Sh*t Out of Everybody’

    Daniel Cormier Recalls Knife Brawl During A Show: ‘Scared The Sh*t Out of Everybody’

    MMA legend Daniel Cormier had once considered leaving a Russian reality TV show after a violent brawl involving a knife. The incident occurred during filming of ALF MMA, a reality show where Cormier and Jon Jones served as opposing team captains. The show, filmed earlier this year in Thailand, saw tempers flare and one fighter, Sergei, attempt to grab a kitchen knife during the altercation.

    Cormier, a retired fighter, expressed serious concerns for the safety of those involved. Jones also felt the situation was too intense. The episode featuring the brawl was released on Tuesday.

    Cormier’s Reaction to the Brawl

    “We’ve seen a few fights since we’ve been here, and this was by far the biggest fight,” Cormier said.

    The situation escalated when Sergei, after being punched, “runs into the kitchen, and he wants to grab a knife. Because all he’s thinking about now is protecting himself. It was very intense.”

    Cormier was so concerned that he considered leaving the show altogether.

    “It was really one of the most intense moments that I personally have seen, being a part of this show for two seasons now,” Jones said.

    “Sergei went to grab that knife and scared the sh*t out of everybody. Daniel Cormier, one of his assistants was really close to the situation, our female translator had to grab the knife from one of the guys. It was really intense, and I think for the first time, everybody on set kind of felt really unsafe.”

    Jones Steps In

    Jones addressed the participants, urging them to calm down. He emphasized the importance of safety and the potential consequences of their actions. Despite the chaos, both Cormier and Jones ultimately remained on the show as coaches.

    In the end, the situation showed how quickly things can get out of hand. Things were eventually brought under control, and both stayed on the show, but the moment clearly left its mark.

  • Daniel Cormier Calls BS on Jon Jones’ ‘Secret’ Arthritis Recording

    Daniel Cormier Calls BS on Jon Jones’ ‘Secret’ Arthritis Recording

    Daniel Cormier doesn’t buy Jon Jones’ claim that he was secretly recorded discussing his arthritis at a bare knuckle event. Speaking on the Daniel Cormier Show, the former UFC double champion laid out his case for why Jones orchestrated the entire leak himself.

    Jones recently addressed the viral video, saying the person who recorded him was wearing Meta glasses and that the conversation was meant to be private.

    “It is true. I do have arthritis and the kid that leaked that was an absolute [expletive],” Jones said. “I was talking to some guys in confidential and he had one of those Meta glasses on… That wasn’t for everybody to hear.”

    Cormier wasn’t having it.

    DC Knows How Meta Glasses Work

    Cormier pointed out that Meta glasses are nearly impossible to miss up close — his own coach wears them.

    “It’s hard to hide that you’re being recorded with Meta glasses,” Cormier said. “If I am 50 yards away from you and I’m recording you, okay, you may not be able to tell, but if I’m two to three feet away like the kid was, they got a white light on the side of the glasses. The moment they start recording, there’s a white light on the side of those glasses that tells you that they are recording. How could he have missed that?”

    Athletes Always Know When They’re Being Recorded

    Cormier added that anyone who has spent years in the public eye develops an instinct for spotting cameras — something Jones has dealt with for over a decade.

    “When you’ve been in the public eye, you build this almost sixth sense as to when people are recording you,” Cormier said. “Because when you’re around or in the public spotlight, the people around you even build a way to figure out that you’re being recorded. It’s just the way it is.”

    DC’s Theory: Jones Leaked It on Purpose

    Cormier laid out his full theory — that Jones deliberately fed the injury information to an influencer so it would go public while maintaining plausible deniability.

    “I believe that information like that, if it’s that close to the vest, you don’t share it with a random,” Cormier said. “I don’t know that anything he does isn’t intended to be taken in the way that it’s taken. It feels like everything he does has a purpose. So, I don’t believe it and I don’t think you should because I don’t think that he was unaware of the video. I think that Jon Jones knew what he was doing.”

    “I think that he wanted people to know that he’s injured and I think that’s exactly the way that he wanted it to happen by giving it to an influencer and that influencer put it on the internet and then he could feign ignorance and go, ‘Oh my god, I got caught.’ Not true.”

    Why Leak It? Because It Might Actually Be Over.

    Cormier’s skepticism about the recording doesn’t extend to the injuries themselves. He said watching Jones at a recent celebrity football game changed his mind about the severity of the damage.

    “I think for the first time, I actually believe that he might have some true issues with his hips because I was watching him play football at that celebrity thing and when Dwight Howard ran past him, there’s no way — there’s no way that he was actually trying and Dwight Howard was able to go past him like that,” Cormier said.

    “I believe Jon Jones really is dealing with sustained injuries from a long sustained career in combat sports where knees and elbows and kicks were such a massive part of his game, the wrestling. Sports from a young age takes a toll on the body to anyone. I truly believe that.”

    ‘Get Ready for a Day Without Jones in Fighting’

    Cormier connected the dots — if Jones is controlling the narrative around his physical decline, it’s because the end of his legendary career is approaching.

    “I think that people should now start to get ready for a day where they don’t have Jones in fighting. I don’t think you’re going to have him much longer in this sport because I don’t think the guy’s body is going to hold up,” Cormier said. “It’s a sad thing because in real time, you could see him starting to come to accept that all those days are over. In real time, we’re watching him come to the acceptance that it’s over.”

    “Once he’s done, that whole generation of fighters might be done. Everybody’s gone. All those great guys are gone and he’s one of the ones that is left and he was the super young guy that was fighting all of us and everybody’s done except for Jones and it seems like that day is coming for him to be done too.”

  • Jon Jones, Daniel Cormier to Coach Against Each Other on ALF Reality Season 3

    Jon Jones, Daniel Cormier to Coach Against Each Other on ALF Reality Season 3

    One of MMA’s most intense rivalries will resume in 2026 as Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier are set to face off… as opposing coaches on ALF Reality Season 3.

    ALF Global founder Alfredo Auditore announced the news on January 5 via social media, sharing a face-off photo of the two UFC legends. The Russian reality series, styled after The Ultimate Fighter, is known for its chaotic format and unscripted confrontations between coaches and fighters.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/DTJAL_5DeMd/

    This marks Jones’ second stint on the show after he previously coached alongside Nate Diaz, who departed following a brawl during filming. Jorge Masvidal stepped in to replace Diaz for Season 2. For Cormier, the UFC Hall of Famer and current broadcaster, this will be his first appearance on the series.

    Jones and Cormier battled twice in the UFC Octagon, with Jones winning both encounters. Their first meeting at UFC 182 in January 2015 saw Jones claim a unanimous decision, while their UFC 214 rematch ended with a Jones head kick knockout—later overturned to a no-contest after Jones tested positive for a banned substance.

    Following the announcement, Cormier hinted at potentially facing Jones beyond the coaching role, calling for a wrestling match in Real American Freestyle.

    “I’m telling you, Real American Freestyle Wrestling is gonna see me and Jon Jones at some point, and I’m gonna kick his ass like you would never believe,” Cormier said on his podcast. “Because guess what? I still shoot. I still train wrestlers every single day.”

    Filming for ALF Reality Season 3 is expected to begin in the coming weeks. No release date has been announced.

  • Merab Dvalishvili’s rise: Daniel Cormier praises his career trajectory

    Merab Dvalishvili’s rise: Daniel Cormier praises his career trajectory

    UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has praised the career progression and evolution of Merab Dvalishvili.

    Next month, Merab Dvalishvili will defend his UFC bantamweight championship against Petr Yan in the main event of UFC 323. If he’s able to win, he will go 4-0 in the year 2025, and in doing so, will establish himself as the greatest bantamweight of all time – as if he doesn’t hold that title already.

    Merab Dvalishvili is called ‘The Machine’ and there are plenty of reasons why, and as we look ahead to the future, it certainly feels as if he has the potential to take his game to an entirely new level.

    In a recent interview, Daniel Cormier couldn’t help but praise Merab Dvalishvili for what he has been able to achieve in mixed martial arts – and the UFC especially.

    Daniel Cormier praises Merab Dvalishvili

    “He went from being a guy that nobody really paid attention to, to a guy that’s almost universally loved,” Cormier told MMA Junkie Radio. “That was only because he’s ever present, always doing stuff to make sure people care. It’s Merab for me.”

    “Oh my God, Merab is making his own way,” Cormier said. “So many people do things, so many guys and girls have been champions, but this guy is doing it in a way that nobody has done it before. That’s what I like. I like that Merab is just, you know, ‘I’m just going to fight, I feel good enough.’ 

    “And what’s most impressive is that this dude has hard weight cuts, and he just fights and fights and fights. If we didn’t cut as much weight, if the weight management wasn’t as hard, we would’ve been more active. Merab has those weight cuts, and he’s still fighting four times in one calendar year. Merab, man.”

    Quotes via MMA Junkie

  • UFC 321 Commentary Team: Who’s Replacing Joe Rogan In The Broadcast Booth In Abu Dhabi?

    UFC 321 Commentary Team: Who’s Replacing Joe Rogan In The Broadcast Booth In Abu Dhabi?

    UFC 321 is set to electrify the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, UAE tonight (Saturday, October 25), with a stacked card of fights.

    UFC’s 11th pay-per-view of 2025 features a thrilling championship doubleheader. In the main event, heavyweight king Tom Aspinall defends his undisputed title for the first time against former interim champion Ciryl Gane.

    Meanwhile, in the co-main event, top strawweight contenders Virna Jandiroba and Mackenzie Dern collide for the vacant 115-pound UFC title. The UFC 321 main card also features a pivotal bantamweight showdown as former title challenger Umar Nurmagomedov goes head-to-head with Mario Bautista.

    UFC 321 Commentary & Broadcast Team

    UFC 321 viewers won’t catch the familiar voice of veteran commentator Joe Rogan, who, as always, does not travel for international events and will be absent from the broadcast in Abu Dhabi.

    Joe Rogan will be missing from UFC 321 commentary team
    Image: UFC/YouTube

    Stepping into the booth, former MMA fighter turned analyst Laura Sanko makes her second PPV appearance, providing expert color commentary alongside the dynamic duo of play-by-play announcer Jon Anik and UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier.

    As usual, legendary Octagon announcer Bruce Buffer returns, electrifying the crowd with his signature energy and iconic flair as he hypes up every fighter before each matchup.

    Behind the scenes at UFC 321, commentator John Gooden will bring fans closer to the action, conducting pre- and post-fight interviews with fighters and delivering live updates throughout the night.

    UFC veterans Anthony Smith, Chael Sonnen, and Paul Felder will complete the broadcast team, offering expert analysis from the desk during the event and on the post-fight show, hosted by Brendan Fitzgerald.

    Image: @ufc/X
  • Tom Aspinall gets honest about hypothetical showdown with UFC legend

    Tom Aspinall gets honest about hypothetical showdown with UFC legend

    UFC heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall admitted that a hypothetical fight with Daniel Cormier during his prime may not have gone too well for him.

    As we know, Tom Aspinall is the current king of the UFC’s heavyweight division. Next weekend, that’ll really be put to the test when he defends his belt against Ciryl Gane at UFC 321. If he wins, it could open up some interesting possibilities for him, with Jon Jones and Alex Pereira both still being touted as possible opponents for the champ.

    While he’s focusing on the task at hand, Tom Aspinall often gets asked questions about the state of the division as a whole – both past and present. In a recent interview, the Englishman revealed that Daniel Cormier would’ve been a particularly bad match-up for him if he was still active.

    Tom Aspinall discusses hypothetical Daniel Cormier fight

    “Peak ‘DC’ has the worst style for me ever,” Aspinall said of Daniel Cormier on the “ShxtsnGigs Podcast.” “He’s short. I’ve said this to his face as well: short guy who just keeps walking forward, changing levels in between like grappling punches. He can knock you out. He can take you down. He’s got cardio for days. For my style, he’s a nightmare.”

    “I thought about it,” Aspinall said. “He was a beast. Peak ‘DC’ was unreal.”

    Quotes via MMA Junkie

    While Aspinall has often been dubbed the perfect example of the ‘next generation’ of heavyweight, even he can acknowledge the greatness of the one and only Daniel Cormier.

  • UFC 320: Who Are Handling Commentary & Broadcast Duties Tonight?

    UFC 320: Who Are Handling Commentary & Broadcast Duties Tonight?

    UFC 320 is set to light up the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada tonight (Saturday, October 4), promising an action-packed night of bouts.

    UFC’s 10th pay-per-view of 2025 is headlined by a championship doubleheader. In the main event, light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev puts his belt on the line in a eagerly awaited rematch with former champ Alex Pereira.

    Meanwhile, in the co-main, reigning bantamweight king Merab Dvalishvili looks to secure his third title defense of the year against perennial contender Cory Sandhagen. Additionally, the main card of UFC 320 will also feature a potential barnburner, as former 205-pound champion Jiri Prochazka takes on former title challenger Khalil Rountree Jr.

    UFC 320 Commentary & Broadcast Team

    The UFC 320 commentary team will feature the return of play-by-play announcer Jon Anik, coming off his recent broadcast of the Terence Crawford vs. Canelo Alvarez boxing showdown. He’ll team up with his regular color commentator duo, UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier and veteran analyst Joe Rogan.

    As always, the legendary Octagon announcer Bruce Buffer will be back, bringing his signature energy and unmistakable flair as he introduces each fighter ahead of every matchup.

    UFC correspondent Megan Olivi will be on hand at UFC 320 to conduct backstage pre- and post-fight interviews with the fighters, and will team up with Karyn Bryant while providing live updates from the arena throughout the night.

    Meanwhile, Din Thomas is part of the broadcast as a coach, offering expert analysis throughout the event. UFC veterans Anthony Smith, Chael Sonnen, and Dominick Cruz will round out the team, serving as desk analysts during the broadcast and on the post-fight show.

    Image: @ufc/X

  • Conor McGregor’s return: Daniel Cormier has questions regarding possible UFC comeback

    Conor McGregor’s return: Daniel Cormier has questions regarding possible UFC comeback

    UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has given his thoughts on the latest rumors regarding a potential return to the cage for Conor McGregor.

    At this point in his career, Conor McGregor is a pretty controversial figure. He’s been involved in many controversies and along the way, he seems to have lost a fair amount of his fans. With that being said, many would still be intrigued to see him step back inside the octagon, and it definitely feels like UFC’s White House event is when he wants to do that.

    Daniel Cormier, who has followed Conor McGregor’s career closely for many years, has the following to say on the matter.

    Daniel Cormier’s view on Conor McGregor

    “He’s told us time and time again that he’ll be there and he hasn’t shown up. I believe that this time, there’s a stronger possibility because of all the time that’s passed and I believe the White House is going be that big of a deal to him.”

    “But, I think the biggest factor in why Conor McGregor may fight is because no one believes him anymore and some of that shine is starting to wear off. 

    “It doesn’t matter how much money you’ve got Chael, when you’re a guy that develops the level of stardom that he reached, when you’re a guy that loves the attention and the adulation and it starts to fade, then you come back and you do what you did before.

    “I think he’s coming back, but it’s not because he wants to compete,” Cormier said. “I think he understands now that people just aren’t in on the Conor McGregor business anymore.”

    Quotes via Bloody Elbow

  • “Going To Be A Real Problem For The Division” – Fans React To Danill Donchenko Winning Welterweight TUF Title With Violent Performance Against Rodrigo Sezinando At Noche UFC

    “Going To Be A Real Problem For The Division” – Fans React To Danill Donchenko Winning Welterweight TUF Title With Violent Performance Against Rodrigo Sezinando At Noche UFC

    Danill Donchenko is the welterweight winner of season 33 of The Ultimate Fighter, claiming that accolade by finishing teammate Rodrigo Sezinando in the opening bout of the Noche UFC 3 prelims.

    Donchenko came out aggressive, despite Sezinando landing a pair of strong right hands. Sezinando scored a takedown and attempted to use his grappling, but Donchenko landed well in the clinch and then landed a strong elbow that opened up a cut around one of Sezinando’s eyes. The two continued to throw their power, with Donchenko troubling him at one point against the fence.

    After a failed takedown attempt from Sezinando, Donchenko easily knocked Sezinando down with a flurry and finished things with ground-and-pound to become The Ultimate Fighter.

    Danill Donchenko Becomes TUF 33 Welterweight Winner

    https://twitter.com/Bullish_Bruh/status/1966944186789195933

    This fight had been originally scheduled to go down at UFC 319 last month, but the bout was delayed after Seinznado suffered an injury. Joseph Morales won the flyweight portion of TUF 33 at that event.

    Sezinando, a member of Team Cormier, reached the final today with a unanimous decision over Diego Bianchini and a split decision win over teammate Jeff Creighton. Prior to the show, was 8-1, picking up a pair of titles on the regional circuit.

    Donchenko, also a member of Team Cormier, advanced to the final with a decision over Richard Martins and a first-round finish of Matt Dixon. Prior to joining TUF, Donchenko was 11-2, which included a reign as Naiza FC’s lightweight champion in 2024.

  • Chael Sonnen Drops Striking Theory On What Drove Jon Jones To PEDs – ‘That’s The Life He Chose’

    Chael Sonnen Drops Striking Theory On What Drove Jon Jones To PEDs – ‘That’s The Life He Chose’

    Chael Sonnen believes he knows why Jon Jones chose a tainted path in his career.

    Jones is often hailed as the greatest MMA fighter of all time, and his resume more than justifies that. At 23, “Bones” made history as the UFC’s youngest champion by winning the light heavyweight title. He holds a 28-1 record and has remained unbeaten in 17 world title fights.

    However, Jones’ longtime rival Daniel Cormier holds a starkly different perspective. The UFC Hall of Famer recently stirred headlines by leaving Jones off his Mount Rushmore of MMA greats, pointing to the shadow of failed drug tests and controversies that cloud his otherwise legendary career.

    The former two-division UFC champion’s illustrious career has been marred by multiple failed drug tests, most notably a positive result for a turinabol metabolite following his knockout win over “DC” in their UFC 214 rematch in July 2017, which was later overturned to a no contest.

    “Bones” also failed a drug test for the estrogen blockers clomiphene and letrozole following his victory over Ovince Saint Preux at UFC 197 in April 2016, costing him the UFC 205-pound title.

    Jon Jones
    Image: @espnmma/X

    Chael Sonnen Claims Jon Jones Used PEDs Out Of Insecurity, Not Necessity

    During a recent episode of Good Guy/Bad Guy with Daniel Cormier, Chael Sonnen, who has openly acknowledged using performance-enhancing drugs during his fighting days, offered his theory on what may have pushed Jon Jones to resort to banned substances despite his repeated denials.

    The UFC veteran-turned-analyst suggested that “Bones” resorted to PEDs out of insecurity, arguing that even with his extraordinary talent, there came a point where self-doubt crept in.

    “Everybody goes down that road where they cheat the rules because they somewhere had an insecurity,” Chael Sonnen said. “They somewhere wanted an edge and then they come back, go, ‘But I could have done it anyway.’ Well, maybe you didn’t think you could. If you thought you could, you would have not put a synthetic chemical substance into your as*.

    “It’s just one of those things, and Jon really gets upset about that. He doesn’t deny the hit-and-runs. He doesn’t deny the cocaine allegations. That’s the one that bothers him, the picogram and the couple of failed tests. That’s a very common thing with athletes. I do believe Jon could have been champ of the world without steroids, but somewhere within him, at some point, he doubted that, and that’s the life he chose.”

  • Daniel Cormier Strongly Refutes Khabib Nurmagomedov Giving Arman Tsarukyan ’80-20′ Chance To Beat Ilia Topuria – ‘I Don’t Believe That for One Second’

    Daniel Cormier Strongly Refutes Khabib Nurmagomedov Giving Arman Tsarukyan ’80-20′ Chance To Beat Ilia Topuria – ‘I Don’t Believe That for One Second’

    Daniel Cormier holds a contrasting view to Khabib Nurmagomedov when it comes to Ilia Topuria vs. Arman Tsarukyan.

    Topuria is widely regarded as one of the most well-rounded fighters in modern MMA, holding a flawless 17-0 record with 15 finishes, including victories over former UFC champions Charles Oliveira, Max Holloway, and Alexander Volkanovski.

    Adding to his legacy, “El Matador” etched his name in history by becoming a two-division UFC champion, securing the lightweight crown with a knockout win over Oliveira at UFC 317.

    However, “The Eagle” believes Topuria’s reign could be in serious jeopardy if he ever defends his title against Tsarukyan. Nurmagomedov recently claimed that “Ahalkalakets” is far more skilled than the Spaniard and would surely defeat him should they cross paths inside the Octagon.

    Images: @iliatopuria/@arm_011/Instagram

    Daniel Cormier Disputes Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Assessment Of Ilia Topuria Potentially Struggling Against Arman Tsarukyan

    During a recent video on his YouTube channel, Daniel Cormier shared his thoughts on Khabib Nurmagomedov heavily favoring Arman Tsarukyan to defeat reigning UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria in a potential showdown.

    “80-20 [%] is crazy, though. 80-20 is hard when anyone’s fighting,” Cormier said. “The only time 80-20 could be thought of in fights has been in the case of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Jon Jones. They’re the only people that have gone through this whole thing without losing. They are the only two. So you could have possibly said, ‘Well, yeah, it’s probably about 80% that guy’s way, because they never lose.”

    The UFC Hall of Famer firmly pushed back against his former training partner Nurmagomedov’s assertion, arguing that a fighter of Topuria’s caliber is not someone who can be dismissed so easily.

    “Guess who else hasn’t lost? Ilia Topuria. To put him on the opposite side of that 80%-20% is crazy. I don’t believe that for one second. I really do disagree with Khabib on that one. There is not a guy in the world that I believe is gonna beat Ilia Topuria 8 out of 10 times. That’s the truth.”

  • Daniel Cormier Explains Why Brock Lesnar was The Easiest Matchup For Him

    Daniel Cormier Explains Why Brock Lesnar was The Easiest Matchup For Him

    UFC commentator Daniel Cormier has explained why he believes Brock Lesnar would’ve been a relatively easy matchup for him if the planned fight had gone ahead many years ago.

    As we know, Daniel Cormier is a legend in the world of mixed martial arts. He’s a two-weight world champion, capturing the second of those two titles by knocking out Stipe Miocic to become UFC heavyweight champ. In the aftermath of that victory, DC was greeted in the cage by Brock Lesnar, with the expectation being that the two would eventually square off for the strap.

    Unfortunately, it never quite came to fruition. Daniel Cormier, who is known to be a fan of professional wrestling, would’ve likely loved playing up to the crowd and building the hype for a fight between himself and Lesnar. Alas, it never happened, and we’ll always have to wonder what could’ve been.

    In a recent interview, however, Daniel Cormier made it pretty clear what he thinks would’ve gone down if these two had collided.

    Daniel Cormier’s view on fighting Brock Lesnar

    “The WWE got him. They took him back. That was my golden goose. It was one of the safest fights I could have had. It’s just the truth. I watch what Cain did to him. I saw Brock recently, and he still has that scar under his eye from when Cain kneed him in the face.”

    Regardless of what would’ve happened, we all know what did happen – Cormier built a legacy for himself that will be remembered for many, many years to come.

  • “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.

  • “Bright Futures Ahead Of You” – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 12 Recap

    “Bright Futures Ahead Of You” – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 12 Recap

    Welcome, everyone, to the 12th and final edition of The TUF Stuff!

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

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

    Last week saw the second flyweight semifinal, with Team Sonnen’s Joseph Morales scoring a highly controversial decision over Team Cormier’s Imanol Rodriguez. Morales will face Alibi Idiris in the flyweight finale during the UFC 319 prelims this Saturday.

    Recap of The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 – Episode 12

    Now, Team Cormier’s Daniil Donchenko faces Team Sonnen’s Matt Dixon for the right to face Team Cormier’s Rodrigo Sezinando in the welterweight finale at UFC 319!

    Let’s get into episode 12 of The Ultimate Fighter!

    Out In Las Vegas

    As a thank you to the fighters for partaking in the celebration of TUF’s 20th anniversary, Dana White, Daniel Cormier, and Chael Sonnen took the fighters out to Las Vegas. A Vegas Hilton billboard spotlights TUF artwork. Sonnen says while it’s hard for them to call themselves one, considering it’s a competition, tonight is a night they could celebrate their accomplishments. Cormier tells the TUF cast they are all special kids with bright futures ahead of them.

    The fighters take time out at Fuhu Restaurant at Resorts World.

    Cormier says the attitudes of the teams are telling, with Cormier and his team being wild, while Sonnen and his team acting professional.

    TUF House

    Members of Team Sonnen sat around a fire, reflecting on how they got to partake in such an experience. Andreaas Binder reflects that he will miss everyone in the TUF House.

    Team Sonnen Training Session – Rashad Evans Joins

    Assistant Coach Jamie Huey brings in a UFC Hall of Famer to join them with Chael Sonnen unable to join afternoon practice — TUF season two winner and season 10 coach, and former UFC light heavyweight champion, Rashad Evans.

    Evans tells the guys that this is a “savage sport” despite the comradery. “You have to tap into that savagery when you’re out there,” Evans said. “Because guess what? That’s what you’re up against.”

    Dixon says Evans is deep and wise from his experience.

    Evans works with the team on transitions, saying the best fighters fight in transition. He adds that fighters have to bring the violence and be willing to sacrifice to get to the top.

    Matt Dixon Call Home

    Dixon receives a call from his family, looking in awe especially at his daughter, whose first two teeth have grown in.

    Dixon says this call from his family re-motivated him, reminding him why he’s here and why he does what he does.

    Dixon says he’s super grateful he got to do this opportunity, and his family are proud of what he’s doing.

    Daniil Donchenko Fight Prep

    Cormier says that Donchenko needs to fight smart and creatively, and he needs to out-pressure Dixon.

    Donchenko says he saw holes in Dixon’s game and feels he has the ability to knock Dixon out.

    Cormier says Dixon will put on pressure and try to brawl with Donchenko — a kind of fight that falls into Donchenko’s hands.

    Cormier says the fight will be a war, and that while Dixon likes to bring the fight, Donchenko takes that kind of fight in.

    Donchenko says his knees and elbows will go into Dixon’s face and body and promises to do damage. Donchenko compares he and Dixon’s fighting styles to fire and water.

    Team Cormier Training Session & TUF House

    Michael Chiesa presents Donchenko with a fish, named Papito, Donchenko’s “Fighting Fish.” Donchenko says the gift means a lot to him because of his connection to his late father, whom he spent time fishing with, who passed away following a drug overdose.

    An emotional Donchenko says it was that experience that reminded him to enjoy life and take nothing for granted — and to do everything you can to make it yours.

    Matt Dixon Fight Prep

    Sonnen says Dixon is both the strongest and most conditioned fighter on the team, calling him an animal.

    Sonnen says Dixon has the power to knock Donchenko out, and he’s not sure about the other way around.

    Dixon says his plan is to pressure and close the distance, implementing dirty boxing. When asked about taking Donchenko down, Dixon says he’s planning to mix that in.

    Dixon says he’s prepared to go to a gritty place to take Donchenko out, calling himself both the better grappler and striker in this fight.

    Dixon says we’ll find out if Donchenko is tough enough to take his shots, adding that if the fight is a three-round brawl, he’ll be happy with that.

    Sonnen says this will be the fight of the season.

    Daniil Donchenko Call Home

    Donchenko has a conversation with his girlfriend. Donchenko says it feels strange being away for so long and now seeing her on television screen.

    Donchenko’s girlfriend says the family is all supporting him and plenty of people are asking about him. Donchenko says he really misses her and will see her soon.

    The Fight: Danill Donchenko vs. Matt Dixon

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

    Both fighters weigh in at 171. The fight is on!

    Roybert Echeverria says the two have different kinds of striking styles. He wants to see how Donchenko reacts to Dixon’s pressure. Tumelo Manyamala says Donchenko says he’s good at countering the kind of pressure Dixon brings, with kicks included.

    Dana White says this is perhaps the best of the semifinal matchups. He says both are explosive strikers who look for knockouts.

    Danill Donchenko vs. Matt Dixon

    Round 1

    The two move to the center. Dixon pressures Donchenko to the fence and lands an elbow. Donchenko tries to come in and Dixon clinches him against the fence. Donchenko pressure. Dixon lands a knee. Clinch battle and both men score. Knee to the body by Donchenko. Left hand by Dixon. Low kicks by Donchenko. Body shot by Donchenko. Dixon presses Donchenko to the fence again. Donchenko lands a strong elbow. Series of punches! But they’re landing on the back of the head! Referee Marc Smith calls time out!

    The doctor clears Dixon, who is bloodied. Smith gives Donchenko a hard warning. Low kick by Donchenko. Donchenko tries to pressure. Right hand by Dixon. Donchenko lands a small flurry, but Donchenko is briefly dropped by a right hand! The two trading! One-two by Dixon, but Donchenko lands a power shot. More power shots! Donchenko pressures Dixon to the fence! Dixon goes down! Ground-and-pound! That’s it!

    Danill Donchenko wins an explosive battle to reach the final!

    Winner: Donchenko via first-round KO

    Conclusion

    Cormier says this was a fight that they all expected. White says Donchenko came to knock Dixon out, but Dixon fought back. Dixon ended up rocking Donchenko, but Cormier told Donchenko to take his time and search for opportunities. That came with an elbow that busted Dixon open.

    Sonnen and Cormier says Dixon could have taken a DQ win, but Sonnen says that’s not the way the game is played — and Dixon followed that. Cormier says Dixon “got up and fought like a man.” White, however, says he doesn’t think Dixon was recovered fully when he chose to continue. Sonnen said he knew at that point Donchenko had won.

    Cormier says Donchenko was the better fighter. White, however, gives credit to both men.

    Dixon says he wanted a fight like this and called Donchenko a warrior.

    Donchenko is hyped to be in the finale. He says he’ll be proud of himself today, but the next day it’s back to work as he chases the TUF title.

    Face-offs are then held for the finale fights: Team Sonnen’s Joseph Morales vs. Team Cormier’s Alibi Idiris at flyweight and Rodrigo Sezinando vs. Danill Donchenko (both of Team Cormier) at welterweight.

    Thanks for joining me on this ride for season 33 of TUF and for the final edition of The TUF Stuff!

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Recap of The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 – Episode 11

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

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

    TUF House

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

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

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

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

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

    Joseph Morales Fight Prep

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

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

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

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

    Imanol Rodriguez Call Home

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

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

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

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

    Imanol Rodriguez Fight Prep

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Joseph Morales Call Home

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

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

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

    The Fight: Imanol Rodriguez vs. Joseph Morales

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

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

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

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

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

    Imanol Rodriguez vs. Joseph Morales

    Round 1

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

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

    Round 2

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

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

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

    Round 3

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

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

    Winner: Morales via split decision

    Conclusion

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

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

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

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

    Morales and Rodriguez hug in the Octagon.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  • “It’s Not Wrong That You Share The Same Goal…” – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 10 Recap

    “It’s Not Wrong That You Share The Same Goal…” – The TUF Stuff: The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 Episode 10 Recap

    Welcome, everyone, to the 10th edition of The TUF Stuff!

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

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

    Last week saw semifinal action begin, as Alibi Idiris of Team Cormier secured the first flyweight final spot at UFC 319 by defeating Team Sonnen’s Roybert Echeverria.

    Recap of The Ultimate Fighter Season 33 – Episode 10

    Now, Team Cormier will have two of its own go at it for the first welterweight final spot as Jeff Creighton and Rodrigo Sezinando do battle.

    Let’s get into episode 10 of The Ultimate Fighter!

    Team Sonnen Out On The Town

    With some extra time due to an all-Team Cormier showdown, Team Sonnen gets to go out on the town in Las Vegas. They attend a Criss Angel show and get to meet the magician himself, as Angel is apparently good friends with Colby Covington, according to UFC CEO and President Dana White.

    Sonnen says the experience was a good one for the team because it’s a break from all the training and their spirits get lifted.

    Criss Angel even invited Sonnen and Covington on stage during the evening.

    Team Cormier Training Session & Fight Preps

    Team Cormier explains it’ll be a sparring session, trying to balance out times so no one feels isolated since the team has two fighters competing. Sezinando says he wants to specifically spar with Alex Sanchez. Crieghton feels Sezinando wants to focus on training with the smaller welterweights to “protect his ego.”

    Cormier says he is not going to coach the two to maintain neutrality, and the others are going to support Sezinando and Creighton’s training.

    Cormier says Sezinando should maintain space and distance to use his striking to his full potential — something he didn’t execute fully in his first-round matchup.

    Sezinando says Creighton is scared to grapple with him and plans to put a lot of pressure on Creighton. “He’s going to see a complete MMA fighter in there.”

    Cormier says Creighton should use his wrestling. He adds that Sezinando hasn’t been seen on his back, and that Creighton should force that. Creighton says he sees the fight starting off hot, and if Sezinando “is smart,” he’ll try to get Creighton out in the first five minutes.

    Creighton guarantees Sezinando won’t be able to finish him and he’ll put a beating on him — whether Sezinando puts his foot on the gas from the start of the fight on or not.

    Cormier says he sees both guys having a solid shot at winning the competition and hopes for a good fight.

    Rodrigo Sezinando Call Home

    We see a phone call between Sezinando and his mother, who he hasn’t seen in a year-and-a-half. Sezinando says his mom is his motivation and why he works hard every day.

    You can see the emotion on Sezinando’s face as he promises they’ll be reunited soon. His mother expresses gratitude to God that he’s okay.

    Sezinando says the world knows their story, and that’s why he continues to push, and he thanks his mom for everything in his life. His mom says that she knows how big of a heart he has and how beautiful of a person he is.

    Sezinando says his mom didn’t eat many days, sacrificing for him and his brother. He explains how hard it is, and we see how emotional Sezinando still is after the phone call. He admits he feels the pressure to do well in order to benefit his mom’s life and pay back for everything she has sacrificed.

    Jeff Creighton Phone Call Home

    Creighton receives a phone call from his wife. Creighton says he’s been missing home; however, the time away has made him truly realize — and more appreciative of — the sacrifices his loved ones have made. “I want their sacrifices to be worth something.”

    Creighton’s wife, Hailey, says even though she knows he hasn’t had his phone, she has still texted him.

    Creighton says his wife has made sacrifices and he couldn’t be more thankful of her support.

    We then see all of Creighton’s family, and Creighton says that their sight brought him additional motivation. “I’m doing this for the right reason. I’m doing this for them.”

    The Fight: Jeff Creighton vs. Rodrigo Sezinando

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

    Creighton and Sezinando both weigh in at 170.5. The fight is on!

    Andreaas Binder feels Creighton might have the better skillset, but Sezinando has the strength and jiu-jitsu edges. Joseph Morales says Sezinando hasn’t been impressive, at least compared to Creighton’s skillset, and that he’ll need a takedown to secure an edge.

    Dana White says he’s expecting a technical fight between two expert-level grapplers.

    Cormier says the two have been very respectful of each other, but he can’t imagine the guys being comfortable in the same locker room. Cormier puts the two in different locker rooms.

    Cormier says both have worked very hard and closely with the team, and he reminds the two that they’re here because they’ve worked together to support each other to get there. Cormier tells them to have a good fight and may the best man win.

    Both guys seem to have the realization that this is just business, but they’re each a roadblock for the other.

    “It’s not wrong that you share the same goal,” Cormier said. “It’s only wrong if you don’t do everything in your power to accomplish it.

    Cormier says the coaches are divided up in terms of who is cornering which fighter.

    Jeff Creighton vs. Rodrigo Sezinando

    Round 1

    Creighton and Sezinando hug it out and Sezinando asks for some noise. Low kick from Creighton. Creighton with a body kick, and his corner tells him to get his space back. Sezinando with a big right hand and left hook. Sezinando goes in and presses Creighton against the fence. Sezinando gets Creighton up, but Creighton goes back to his feet, preventing the takedown. Creighton appears to have an arm around Sezinando’s neck. More pummeling. Right hand by Creighton. Sezinando continues to search for the takedown. Elbow by Creighton. Cormier is concerned that Sezinando is wasting energy on this takedown attempt. Referee Marc Smith calls for more activity.

    More pummeling from Sezinando, while Creighton looks to pressure his way off the fence. A few short left hands from Creighton. And another. And another. Sezinando gets Creighton up again, but he again can’t get it. Finally, he’s able to get the takedown with about 1:45 left. Or, rather, Creighton got the takedown and Sezinando reversed it. Sezinando’s corner tells him to get control first. Sezinando is able to get into side control, then a transition into half-guard. Creighton’s corner encourages him to work his way to the cage. Sezinando works his way up, trying to threaten an arm-triangle choke. Creighton turns the wrong way and Sezinando gets his back, trying to threaten a choke in the closing seconds of the round. Sezinando can’t get it, and Creighton reverses to end the round on top.

    Round 2

    Creighton with a body shot early. A couple of kicks to add on. Creighton with a right hand, but Sezinando throws a knee. Now it’s Creighton pressuring Sezinando into the fence. Creighton gets the takedown, and Sezinando puts up his guard. Creighton’s corner says to look for elbows. They’re against the cage now, with Creighton pressuring. Creighton tries to get to Sezinando’s back, but Sezinando rolls and threatens a leg lock. Creighton gets out of it, but Sezinando now has Creighton seated back against the fence. We get a switch. Sezinando gets Creighton up again and slams him down, getting right into full mount.

    Sezinando makes his way into full mount. Creighton tries to escape, but Sezinando gets to his back. Creighton gets to his feet and the two exchange heavy on the break. Front kick by Creighton. Right hand by Sezinando. Body shot by Creighton. Right hand by Creighton backs Sezinando up. Strong knee from Creighton on a brief clinch. Sezinando scores a takedown, however. Creighton with a right hand, as his corner yells for him to get up with urgency. Sezinando keeps Creighton down, however. Palm strikes from Creighton as the ref tells Sezinando to work. A couple of strong elbows from Sezinando, though he’s warned to watch the back of the head. A series of consecutive right hands from Sezinando to the head. Sezinando ends the round on top just as Creighton is returning to the feet.

    Round 3

    We’ve got a third round! Is this the first one of the season? Right hand and a round kick from Creighton. Creighton goes for pressure into the fence, but Sezinando reverses and pins Creighton to the fence. A couple of elbows land for Creighton. Creighton continuing to defend the takedown attempts from Sezinando. Sezinando lands a spinning elbow on Creighton. Left hand by Creighton. Another left hand from Creighton. Creighton again tries to rush in, and Sezinando presses and scores a takedown.

    Halfway through the round and Marc Smith asks Sezinando to work again. Sezinando works his way to Creighton’s back and rolls through. Sezinando tries to get a body lock as he hunts for the choke. Creighton trying to get free, but Sezinando keeps the pressure. Sezinando transitions to top position and hunts for an arm-triangle but can’t get it. Creighton uses the cage and elbows to get back to his feet with a minute left. Sezinando presses for a takedown again. More punching from Creighton. He escapes Sezinando’s pressure with 45 seconds to go. Creighton’s corner calling for him to bite down on his mouth piece and pressure, but he’s not bringing it. Creighton then clinches briefly for some reason. The two exchanging, where Creighton lands a strong knee to the body. It’s not enough.

    Winner: Rodrigo Sezinando via unanimous decision after three rounds

    Conclusion

    Cormier says Sezinando accomplished what he’s needed — to score takedowns and nullify Creighton’s offense. Cormier says Creighton had moments where he tried to build momentum, but Sezinando was able to cap off any of that.

    Dana White says Creighton finally let his hands go in the third round, looking for a knockout, knowing he was down 2-0. Cormier adds, however, that every time he overextended, Sezinando caught him. Cormier says he appreciated not keeping his distance to try and get a finish, but White says Sezinando’s takedowns tired him out too much.

    Creighton says it’s a tough pill to swallow, but Sezinando was the better man tonight. Creighton says it’s hard knowing he’s not in the family and feels he let his family down. But Creighton says he will make the Octagon one day.

    Sezinando is emotional, in tears, realizing he’s going to be competing at UFC 319. “The whole world is going to know me, and I’m proud of myself,” Sezinando says. He promises to take care of his mom soon. “Thank you so much for the man you made.”

    Next week, Team Cormier’s Imanol Rodriguez faces Team Sonnen’s top pick, Joseph Morales, to see who faces Alibi Idiris in the flyweight finale!

    Also, season 32 winner Mairon Santos visits the TUF House!

    What will happen next week? Join alongside us then!

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