The UFC/MMA Thread

[Asif khan]

On Paper one of the biggest fights in UFC history. Volk seems a great chap, mentally strong with good skills but this is a step too far for him imo

My prediction.

Islam submits Volk round 2 or 3 .

View attachment 118608

In Sha Allah bro, stoked for this one and definitely not underestimating Volk and he has the fight IQ, grit and mental toughness to pull it off BUT Islam is made of the same cloth and of course a grappling wizard. SHould be fun.

 

[SalimBhai]

Great fight. Both fighters showed great skills. Great sportsmanship after the game. Islam was a much bigger fighter. The Aussie had ISlam hurt a few times, Rematch for sure.

 

[KingKhanWC]

In Sha Allah bro, stoked for this one and definitely not underestimating Volk and he has the fight IQ, grit and mental toughness to pull it off BUT Islam is made of the same cloth and of course a grappling wizard. SHould be fun.

Incredible performance by both men! Volks grappling was top notch, he used his experience in wrestling in holding back Islam esp with his strong legs and upper body strength!

Islam was also very impressive, his striking was so good with so many clean shots. His knees hurt Volk but he's an animal, his elbow use close in was great too. Islam took down Volk 3/4 times with no takedowns against him.

I find it strange some out there esp those like Joe Rogan who understands the sport was bemused Islam got the decision, I think a lot of bias was present. Islam imo won first 4 rounds with Volk taking the last but the 3-2 Islam would still be a fair result.

I wouldnt want to see a rematch yet, both men must defend their belts with the contendors in their division.

 

[Asif khan]

Incredible performance by both men! Volks grappling was top notch, he used his experience in wrestling in holding back Islam esp with his strong legs and upper body strength!

Islam was also very impressive, his striking was so good with so many clean shots. His knees hurt Volk but he's an animal, his elbow use close in was great too. Islam took down Volk 3/4 times with no takedowns against him.

I find it strange some out there esp those like Joe Rogan who understands the sport was bemused Islam got the decision, I think a lot of bias was present. Islam imo won first 4 rounds with Volk taking the last but the 3-2 Islam would still be a fair result.

I wouldnt want to see a rematch yet, both men must defend their belts with the contendors in their division.

Absolutely incredible performance by both guys...I knew Volk had a gas tank for days but must say I was shocked by the strength and grappling of Volk, he got stronger as the rounds went on!

The criticism Islam has received and the evident bias by commentators and pundits has been borderline disgusting. The less said about the sore loser Hooker the better.

This was Islam's first 5 round fight....blokes a finisher but had to dig deep and did the job. This was Islam's first fight without Khabib in his corner and he traveled to Volk's backyard and he doesn't have nearly the big fight experience that Volk has.

This narrative that Volk was such a smaller opponent, is just a lie. Height aside Volk is a tank!

I don't know how the narrative to this fight got so twisted. Islam had all the pressure and everything stacked against him. His weight cut was awful and you could tell he wasn't quite right.

Volk made Islam fight his fight (striking match) and still Islam imo won the first 4 rounds although 2 and 3 were close.

All in all Islam has learnt much more about himself after this fight and I think he could get to a level where not many can live with him.

I'd like to see Islam fight Beneil next, that would be a banger although I think he's lined up to face Charles. Volk should face Yair who is a threat imo. His kicking game could cause serious problems to Volk and then there's Arnold Allen who is also legit.

Anyway, think they eventually rematch BUT where as usually Volk comes back stronger after studying opponents I think Islam's grappling game will be his undoing next time.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Absolutely incredible performance by both guys...I knew Volk had a gas tank for days but must say I was shocked by the strength and grappling of Volk, he got stronger as the rounds went on!

The criticism Islam has received and the evident bias by commentators and pundits has been borderline disgusting. The less said about the sore loser Hooker the better.

This was Islam's first 5 round fight....blokes a finisher but had to dig deep and did the job. This was Islam's first fight without Khabib in his corner and he traveled to Volk's backyard and he doesn't have nearly the big fight experience that Volk has.

This narrative that Volk was such a smaller opponent, is just a lie. Height aside Volk is a tank!

I don't know how the narrative to this fight got so twisted. Islam had all the pressure and everything stacked against him. His weight cut was awful and you could tell he wasn't quite right.

Volk made Islam fight his fight (striking match) and still Islam imo won the first 4 rounds although 2 and 3 were close.

All in all Islam has learnt much more about himself after this fight and I think he could get to a level where not many can live with him.

I'd like to see Islam fight Beneil next, that would be a banger although I think he's lined up to face Charles. Volk should face Yair who is a threat imo. His kicking game could cause serious problems to Volk and then there's Arnold Allen who is also legit.

Anyway, think they eventually rematch BUT where as usually Volk comes back stronger after studying opponents I think Islam's grappling game will be his undoing next time.

Great summary.

So the P4P rankings still show Volk at no.1 spot. This is very poor esp as Volk himself stated in Abu Dhabi after Islam beat Charles, the next fight will be for both the P4P and LW titles. It seems the bias against Russians is growing esp since they are beating up American favs on a regular basis.

I wonder if Umar will get a fight with Sean OMalley but I doubt it.

 

[shaz619]

Great summary.

So the P4P rankings still show Volk at no.1 spot. This is very poor esp as Volk himself stated in Abu Dhabi after Islam beat Charles, the next fight will be for both the P4P and LW titles. It seems the bias against Russians is growing esp since they are beating up American favs on a regular basis.

I wonder if Umar will get a fight with Sean OMalley but I doubt it.

I didn’t watch it, but was it close or dominating win?

Regardless, whenever #1 and #2 fight, you expect a really close battle due to the clash of technique and also, just a matter of the best facing the best. I think only a division separated them? I don’t think the weight would be a huge factor unless its 2-3 divisions, especially in MMA, don’t they have same day weigh ins? the A side can’t have a rehydration clause either like in Boxing

 

[KingKhanWC]

I didn’t watch it, but was it close or dominating win?

Regardless, whenever #1 and #2 fight, you expect a really close battle due to the clash of technique and also, just a matter of the best facing the best. I think only a division separated them? I don’t think the weight would be a huge factor unless its 2-3 divisions, especially in MMA, don’t they have same day weigh ins? the A side can’t have a rehydration clause either like in Boxing

I think they were both as heavy, Volk is only shorter but a huge chap. An ex Rugby League player so knows how to tussle.

Excellent fight, defo worth watching .

 

[Firebat]

Yaroslav Amosov made a winning return to MMA after beating Logan Storley via unanimous decision at Bellator 291 in Dublin.

 

[Firebat]

Bellator champion Yaroslav Amosov believes he is the best welterweight in the world and invited any UFC champion to fight him.

 

[Firebat]

Paddy Pimblett says he would welcome the possibility of facing Logan Paul in an MMA fight after the world-famous YouTuber mentioned he wanted to fight the Liverpudlian "loud mouth".

 

[Asif khan]

Great summary.

So the P4P rankings still show Volk at no.1 spot. This is very poor esp as Volk himself stated in Abu Dhabi after Islam beat Charles, the next fight will be for both the P4P and LW titles. It seems the bias against Russians is growing esp since they are beating up American favs on a regular basis.

I wonder if Umar will get a fight with Sean OMalley but I doubt it.

Yep, judges pulled a dirty one on Ankalaev and Petr Yan BUT no one ever mentions it and now this for Islam. In hindsight, it's evident it was a lose-lose situation for Islam as nothing was on the line for Volk so why should Islam even entertain a rematch with him?

Sean OMalley does not want anything to do with Umar and it's not surprising...too high a risk for very little reward BUT regardless, Umar will make his way to the top despite no one wanting to fight him. Grappling aside, his kicking game is a thing of beauty.

 

[Asif khan]

Super super stoked for UFC 285! The Goat Jon Jones is back!

Jon Jones against Cyril Gane is a seriously interesting fight...I feel Gane is being discounted but he's a true freak of nature. It's rare to see an MMA fighter with such a perfect combination of size, strength and speed. He's almost like a pumped up version of Mbappe! Jones has been out of action for 3 years and his last few fights were underwhelming so it's going to be a very tricky fight for him. At his best he was in a class of his own but he's 35 now and moving up in weight. I hope he pulls through but kind of worried for him as I really think Gane is the best HW, he may have lost to Ngannou (very close fight) I still think he is superior to him. Jones has incredible IQ and he will need it!

I think Schevchenko comfortably gets past Grasso in the ladies flyweight!

Geoff Neal against Shavkat Rakhmonov is really intriguing. We will probably find out a bit more about Shavkat, he's been an absolute killer upto now and whilst he doesn't get the hype of Khamzat he could be just as dangerous. Neal is brilliant on the feet so could easily cause Shavkat a lot of problems.

Gamrot against Turner should be a cracking LW fight, Turner is very dangerous on the feet and has razor sharp submissions BUT Gamrot will likely spam takedown attempt after takedown attempt.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Yep, judges pulled a dirty one on Ankalaev and Petr Yan BUT no one ever mentions it and now this for Islam. In hindsight, it's evident it was a lose-lose situation for Islam as nothing was on the line for Volk so why should Islam even entertain a rematch with him?

Sean OMalley does not want anything to do with Umar and it's not surprising...too high a risk for very little reward BUT regardless, Umar will make his way to the top despite no one wanting to fight him. Grappling aside, his kicking game is a thing of beauty.

Islam tends to fight anyone UFC gives him. If Volk beats Yair Rodríguez and Islam wins his next, I think there will be a rematch. But dont count out Yair, he has a great skillset.

Umar will fight OMalley one day, Im sure of it and will destroy him. The next champ for sure from the Khabib camp.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Super super stoked for UFC 285! The Goat Jon Jones is back!

Jon Jones against Cyril Gane is a seriously interesting fight...I feel Gane is being discounted but he's a true freak of nature. It's rare to see an MMA fighter with such a perfect combination of size, strength and speed. He's almost like a pumped up version of Mbappe! Jones has been out of action for 3 years and his last few fights were underwhelming so it's going to be a very tricky fight for him. At his best he was in a class of his own but he's 35 now and moving up in weight. I hope he pulls through but kind of worried for him as I really think Gane is the best HW, he may have lost to Ngannou (very close fight) I still think he is superior to him. Jones has incredible IQ and he will need it!

I think Schevchenko comfortably gets past Grasso in the ladies flyweight!

Geoff Neal against Shavkat Rakhmonov is really intriguing. We will probably find out a bit more about Shavkat, he's been an absolute killer upto now and whilst he doesn't get the hype of Khamzat he could be just as dangerous. Neal is brilliant on the feet so could easily cause Shavkat a lot of problems.

Gamrot against Turner should be a cracking LW fight, Turner is very dangerous on the feet and has razor sharp submissions BUT Gamrot will likely spam takedown attempt after takedown attempt.

Gane
Schevchenko
Shavkat
Gamrot

for me.

The reason I think Gane will pull it off, he's been active, used to the fame and high profile match ups. As you say he is so athletic and brisk for a HW. Has a decent chin too along with a lot of power. Jones will try to use his distance, strike and move to eventually take Gane down. But Jones is not the size of Francis, Gane will come free.

I like Jones but imo he lost his last fight v Reyes but got the points decision. Jones even if he loses will have big money fights, his name is there like Conor.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Jones vs Gane is certainly an intriguing fight, I agree Gane will probably win it. Jones looked unbeatable at one time, but he is moving up a weight, and Gane is seriously good.

 

[Asif khan]

Islam tends to fight anyone UFC gives him. If Volk beats Yair Rodríguez and Islam wins his next, I think there will be a rematch. But dont count out Yair, he has a great skillset.

Umar will fight OMalley one day, Im sure of it and will destroy him. The next champ for sure from the Khabib camp.

I really rate Yair, he's super slick everywhere. Honestly, there's a lot of interesting match-ups in the FW division that Volk hasn't taken . Arnold Allen is another talented fighter and unbeaten too whos style could pose problems.

Umar looks destined for great things and have you seen his brother Usman in bellator? I think he is even MORE talented and he's likely coming to UFC once Islam moves up.

 

[Asif khan]

Gane
Schevchenko
Shavkat
Gamrot

for me.

The reason I think Gane will pull it off, he's been active, used to the fame and high profile match ups. As you say he is so athletic and brisk for a HW. Has a decent chin too along with a lot of power. Jones will try to use his distance, strike and move to eventually take Gane down. But Jones is not the size of Francis, Gane will come free.

I like Jones but imo he lost his last fight v Reyes but got the points decision. Jones even if he loses will have big money fights, his name is there like Conor.

I agree...great picks and spot on with your analysis on Jones. What do you think of Bo Nickel?

[Utube]https://youtu.be/w8u0mkbs2hY[/Utube]

Looks a great wrestler BUT I can't wait until he crosses path with Khamzat.

 

[KingKhanWC]

I really rate Yair, he's super slick everywhere. Honestly, there's a lot of interesting match-ups in the FW division that Volk hasn't taken . Arnold Allen is another talented fighter and unbeaten too whos style could pose problems.

Umar looks destined for great things and have you seen his brother Usman in bellator? I think he is even MORE talented and he's likely coming to UFC once Islam moves up.

Usman would light up the UFC but his bellator fight with Benson Henderson should be cracking. I would like to see Bellator get bigger, we need competition for UFC. UFC often supports fighters and will do more if they are Americans, the reason why someone like Chandler is getting big pay days without winning much. Im not sure they will want Usman but lets see.

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Surprised that people are going for Gane as I think Jones wins it with relative ease.

I get he's been out of action for 3 years but he hasn't just jumped up a weight quickly, he's spent time building up to this, though I get the feeling he kinda waited to make sure Ngannou was out the way.

Jones has the reach advantage, the superior wrestling skills and the superior IQ.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Surprised that people are going for Gane as I think Jones wins it with relative ease.

I get he's been out of action for 3 years but he hasn't just jumped up a weight quickly, he's spent time building up to this, though I get the feeling he kinda waited to make sure Ngannou was out the way.

Jones has the reach advantage, the superior wrestling skills and the superior IQ.

Jones has the better CV and also experience of course. Its hard to go against Jones but being active for me is a huge part when fighting for the title or top level. It could go either way but Gane has the power to put Jones to sleep, esp as Jones has never felt the power of HW's.

If it goes to points, highly unlikely but Jones will get the decision. Cyril lost to Francis who put on loads of weight and stayed on top of him. Jones will not have the same success but could stop with ground & pound.

If I had to put my last £, it would be Gane by KO.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Surprised that people are going for Gane as I think Jones wins it with relative ease.

I get he's been out of action for 3 years but he hasn't just jumped up a weight quickly, he's spent time building up to this, though I get the feeling he kinda waited to make sure Ngannou was out the way.

Jones has the reach advantage, the superior wrestling skills and the superior IQ.

Jones has the better CV and also experience of course. Its hard to go against Jones but being active for me is a huge part when fighting for the title or top level. It could go either way but Gane has the power to put Jones to sleep, esp as Jones has never felt the power of HW's.

If it goes to points, highly unlikely but Jones will get the decision. Cyril lost to Francis who put on loads of weight and stayed on top of him. Jones will not have the same success but could stop with ground & pound.

If I had to put my last £, it would be Gane by KO.

 

[Asif khan]

Thinking again it's still one of the trickier match ups to predict due to all the contrasting factors.

Jones:

Exhibited visible decline in his last fights, plus 3 years off and heavier body to carry around for the first time.
Terrible lifestyle that surely adds to his already very long mileage.
Hasn't managed to impose an offensive wrestling game plan since Gus 2 (picco saga).

(+) His wrestling credentials along with his experience and ring craft would nullify ALL of the above and lead him to an easy victory, IF his body would allow for it. We don't know.

(+) Perhaps the decline in his last few fights were due to the complacency setting in, he was running through the best and beating them at their own game and he couldn't challenge himself. This is a REAL challenge and he knows it.

Gane:

Is really slick and cerebral on the feet and has shown he can turn it up for the TKO recently.
A genetic freak with great attributes and very low mileage, surely a champ sometime down the line.

(-) Got taken (and held) down repeatedly by Ngannou, who learned offensive wrestling via youtube tutorials while he was getting his hands wrapped backstage.

I could see father time and inactivity catching up to Jones in this one, and Gane just piecing him up if Jones gets overwhelmed standing up and becomes predictable in his wrestling attempts.

Tough to call!

 

[Geordie Ahmed]

Surprised that people are going for Gane as I think Jones wins it with relative ease.

I get he's been out of action for 3 years but he hasn't just jumped up a weight quickly, he's spent time building up to this, though I get the feeling he kinda waited to make sure Ngannou was out the way.

Jones has the reach advantage, the superior wrestling skills and the superior IQ.

Like I said, easy work for him

 

[shaz619]

There was never any doubt. Am no expert but Jones is the most technically sound Mixed Martial Artist I’ve ever seen. A lot was made of his condition, but he could be obese and he’d still have a shot of winning given his fight IQ and technique.

However, he will forever be tainted as a drugs cheat and that label will stain his legacy.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Pathetic fight. Almost seemed like a fix with Gane allowing himself to be held, grappled and taken down. Taking nothing away Jones, he did his job but one of the worst Main events ever.

Shavkat Bakhtibaevich Rakhmonov remember the name! Fight of the night v Geoff Neal. The 3rd round was one of the very best you will see, the finish elite level.

 

[Asif khan]

Pathetic fight. Almost seemed like a fix with Gane allowing himself to be held, grappled and taken down. Taking nothing away Jones, he did his job but one of the worst Main events ever.

Shavkat Bakhtibaevich Rakhmonov remember the name! Fight of the night v Geoff Neal. The 3rd round was one of the very best you will see, the finish elite level.

Agreed...that was such a weak showing by Gane and probably shows how mentally soft he is. Forget the poor wrestling and offering no resistance on the ground the poor cross shot on the switched stance was very questionable...he literally gave Jones his back!

I've been big on Shavkat for quite sometime, seriously well-rounded and dangerous. Neal is very dangerous on his feet, murdered Luque in his last outing but Shavkat had more to his arsenal than anyone expected. His grappling was off-colour but understandable as I think Neal purposely came in over-weight to keep the fight standing.

Great card overall!

 

[daytrader]

The Predator watching and waiting. Wish they make Jones vs Ngannou happen

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Good job Jonny Boy &#55357;&#56397; <br><br>Sincerely, <br>The heavyweight king</p>— Francis Ngannou (@francis_ngannou) <a href="https://twitter.com/francis_ngannou/status/1632260977860427776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

 

[Firebat]

UFC 286: Leon Edwards beats Kamaru Usman to retain welterweight title

Britain's Leon Edwards retained his welterweight title in front of his home fans as he beat Kamaru Usman by majority decision at UFC 286 in London.

Edwards, 31, was the more dangerous striker throughout as he prevented the majority of Usman's takedown attempts.

The victory over Usman, 35, sees Edwards make his first title defence since beating the Nigerian in August.

The bout at the O2 Arena was billed as the biggest British MMA fight in history.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/65003802

 

[Waq]

I just got back from the 02 arena after watching UFC 286. It was a loud crowd and atmosphere better than boxing and fights moving quickly on the card. I enjoyed my first live experience very much.

Leon Edwards deserved his win but I don’t think he is true champion material and I’m sure somebody like Hamza will stop him with ease.

 

[JimmyGetsBuckets]

I just got back from the 02 arena after watching UFC 286. It was a loud crowd and atmosphere better than boxing and fights moving quickly on the card. I enjoyed my first live experience very much.

Leon Edwards deserved his win but I don’t think he is true champion material and I’m sure somebody like Hamza will stop him with ease.

Khamzat is not fighting at welterweight anymore.

 

[Waq]

Khamzat is not fighting at welterweight anymore.

That’s a shame - I’ve seen him fight a few times and he has a fearless style.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Leon is a great champion, dominated Usman for most of the fight. Usman was thought to be the greatest Welter of all time.

Justin v Raf was the fight of the night, brutal and brilliant.

Leon should fight Islam imo next.

 

[Ahmad-GERMANFC]

This is really bad for Kamaru legacy.

He’s 35 tho so dunno if he should be fighting anyway

 

[JimmyGetsBuckets]

Leon is a great champion, dominated Usman for most of the fight. Usman was thought to be the greatest Welter of all time.

Justin v Raf was the fight of the night, brutal and brilliant.

Leon should fight Islam imo next.

Islam needs to defend his belt at lightweight he can’t just hold up a division do pursue a double championship. Once he clears out the division he can move up.

 

[JimmyGetsBuckets]

This is really bad for Kamaru legacy.

He’s 35 tho so dunno if he should be fighting anyway

Usman’s knees are shot he is done. He had a amazing run at welterweight.

I wanna see Leon vs Belal. Belal is on a 8 fight wind streak so he deserves a shot. Another name in welterweight to lookout for is shavkat, undefeated Kazakhstan fighter.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Islam needs to defend his belt at lightweight he can’t just hold up a division do pursue a double championship. Once he clears out the division he can move up.

Porier will fight Justin. While Charles will fight Dariush. Islam just defended his LW title, there is enough time for to face Leon and then defend.

I think he will be Leon as he will go to wrestling, Islam is superiour to Usman in this facet, who is on the way out.

 

[Firebat]

UFC champion Leon Edwards says he is targeting a return in September or October, which would rule him out of fighting in London this summer.

 

[Cpt. Rishwat]

Leon is a worthy champ, but I think he needs to defend his title against some other top fighters to cement his credentials as title holder. Kamaru at 35 is not the fighter he was. We need to see Leon against the likes of Gilbert Burns and Covington. He'd probably beat Coby, but not sure about Gilbert Burns.

 

[Suleiman]

Leon is a worthy champ, but I think he needs to defend his title against some other top fighters to cement his credentials as title holder. Kamaru at 35 is not the fighter he was. We need to see Leon against the likes of Gilbert Burns and Covington. He'd probably beat Coby, but not sure about Gilbert Burns.

Don’t think he’d beat Colby, at the very least it will be a very good fight. Colby, Leon and Usman is a bit like rock paper scissors.

Also, interesting to see Pereira move up to LHW. Surprised they’re not going for the trilogy with Adesanya.

Have read they may be opening the door for him to become LHW champ so then he can challenge Adesanya for the second belt down the line

 

[Suleiman]

There was never any doubt. Am no expert but Jones is the most technically sound Mixed Martial Artist I’ve ever seen. A lot was made of his condition, but he could be obese and he’d still have a shot of winning given his fight IQ and technique.

However, he will forever be tainted as a drugs cheat and that label will stain his legacy.

He’d be undisputed GOAT if not for the doping scandals.

He’s fought multiple world class fighters across multiple gens of MMA. And won. Now he’s taking on the next gen.

Even right now he is arguably the best ever… but with an asterisk next to his name due to doping. But then again, there was an era (back when Brock Lesnar was a ufc mainstay) where everyone was juiced to the gills… so it’s hard to draw the line on his past accomplishments.

As soon as the USADA hit, a lot of those juiced guys dropped rapidly off the map back to their “normal” levels. But Jones kept performing.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Don’t think he’d beat Colby, at the very least it will be a very good fight. Colby, Leon and Usman is a bit like rock paper scissors.

Also, interesting to see Pereira move up to LHW. Surprised they’re not going for the trilogy with Adesanya.

Have read they may be opening the door for him to become LHW champ so then he can challenge Adesanya for the second belt down the line

If in London, Leon will beat Colby as he's a better striker and is now well versed in stopping take downs.

Leon wants to fight in Abu Dhabi but I thought Islam would be the main event in Oct. Maybe they will do two in a two weeks ?

 

[KingKhanWC]

He’d be undisputed GOAT if not for the doping scandals.

He’s fought multiple world class fighters across multiple gens of MMA. And won. Now he’s taking on the next gen.

Even right now he is arguably the best ever… but with an asterisk next to his name due to doping. But then again, there was an era (back when Brock Lesnar was a ufc mainstay) where everyone was juiced to the gills… so it’s hard to draw the line on his past accomplishments.

As soon as the USADA hit, a lot of those juiced guys dropped rapidly off the map back to their “normal” levels. But Jones kept performing.

Jones lost to Reyes, who was robbed. He is a great fighter but not the GOAT. He's American and a big draw which is why the UFC and the company men will always go for the GOAT tag. HW division is very poor now.

Put it this why, if Jones was LW, Khabib would take him out within 2 rounds. P4P means if both were to fight at the same weight.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Arnold Allen (UK) v Max Holloway this weekend!

Max is a legend of the sport but I think Allen could beat him if he takes him down. If Allen wins, he will surely get a title fight next with Alex.

 

[shaz619]

He’d be undisputed GOAT if not for the doping scandals.

He’s fought multiple world class fighters across multiple gens of MMA. And won. Now he’s taking on the next gen.

Even right now he is arguably the best ever… but with an asterisk next to his name due to doping. But then again, there was an era (back when Brock Lesnar was a ufc mainstay) where everyone was juiced to the gills… so it’s hard to draw the line on his past accomplishments.

As soon as the USADA hit, a lot of those juiced guys dropped rapidly off the map back to their “normal” levels. But Jones kept performing.

You’re right and the same could apply to Boxing to, but guys like Jones are utter skum due to their multiple and repeat offences, there are stories of him hiding under the cage when they’ve come to test him etc technically he is incredible but his legacy is tainted. MMA fighters are generally seen as savages with very little class or specialist skill, it took some time to catch on because they are looked upon as animals, guys like Jones don’t help to shake off that image despite his technical ability. Because he has a name in the division he is allowed to get away with all his offences, I doubt any other fighter would be given the same leniency repeatedly

 

[shaz619]

Jones lost to Reyes, who was robbed. He is a great fighter but not the GOAT. He's American and a big draw which is why the UFC and the company men will always go for the GOAT tag. HW division is very poor now.

Put it this why, if Jones was LW, Khabib would take him out within 2 rounds. P4P means if both were to fight at the same weight.

Jones would need some extra special stuff to beat Khabib (P4P) and even then it will be tough. Khabib took the sport to heights not seen since the days of Anderson Silva. Among a few combat sportsman who have put the sport and martial art on a pedestal, similar to Bruce Lee. I don’t consider MMA to be the most superior combat sport but a fighter like Khabib made me respect martial arts more, then again, there is no one like him. Conor, Jones and the others etc absolute HEATHENS.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Jones would need some extra special stuff to beat Khabib (P4P) and even then it will be tough. Khabib took the sport to heights not seen since the days of Anderson Silva. Among a few combat sportsman who have put the sport and martial art on a pedestal, similar to Bruce Lee. I don’t consider MMA to be the most superior combat sport but a fighter like Khabib made me respect martial arts more, then again, there is no one like him. Conor, Jones and the others etc absolute HEATHENS.

You know how difficult it is not to lose a single round or sustain any real damage in a 15 year career in any combat sport. What Khabib did was truly phenomenal, never seen the chap go home with a busted up face and no opponent even came close to beating him.

 

[shaz619]

You know how difficult it is not to lose a single round or sustain any real damage in a 15 year career in any combat sport. What Khabib did was truly phenomenal, never seen the chap go home with a busted up face and no opponent even came close to beating him.

That’s a great point, hardly a mark on his face in a glorious career. When you’re that dominant, regardless of opposition, you pass almost every metric for being one of the greatest ever, but he just bodies even the elite names, he has been competing at a different level. He has been wrongly stereotyped as a wrestler when his striking is arguably equally good, striking is not just about excellent offence, but good defence to, Khabib’s head movement is great and I’ve seen him roll with punches he doesn’t see coming like a Mexican counter puncher, he doesn’t over-reach and paws with his jab, he looks cagey due to the sambo background but it is clear he has worked hard with high level boxing coaches to improve himself, it explains why he rarely sustains any damage upright

 

[Firebat]

Bellator 295: Patchy Mix knocks out Raufeon Stots to win Bellator interim bantamweight title

Patchy Mix stunned Raufeon Stots, knocking him out with a vicious knee to win the Bantamweight Grand Prix and interim title at Bellator 295 in Hawaii.

American Mix landed the fight-ending strike in the second minute of the bout.

In victory Mix, 29, secures a $1m (£800,000) prize.

He sets up a bout against the victor of champion Sergio Pettis and Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire's fight in June.

Pettis was originally meant to defend his belt in the tournament, which started last year, but pulled out with injury, leading to an interim title being put on the line.

American Stots, 34, beat Juan Archuleta for that belt in April 2022 before defending it against Danny Sabatello in December to reach the final.

Mix, meanwhile, defeated Kyoji Horiguchi and Magomed Magomedov to secure his spot in the showpiece event at the Neal S. Blaisdell Arena in Honolulu.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/65364326

 

[Firebat]

Aljamain Sterling beat the returning Henry Cejudo by split decision to retain his bantamweight title at UFC 288 in New Jersey.

 

[Suleiman]

Have seen so many comments hating on Belal for the last year or so in the YouTube comments.

He shut up a lot of people with his performance. Yeah he may not come off the right way based on how he’s t trying to market himself. But he will learn. That’s just how it is in UFC. You get cut if you have zero personality regardless of how good you are. So you need to do some WWE style self promotions.

Some guys go way overboard like Colby.

 

[KingKhanWC]

Have seen so many comments hating on Belal for the last year or so in the YouTube comments.

He shut up a lot of people with his performance. Yeah he may not come off the right way based on how he’s t trying to market himself. But he will learn. That’s just how it is in UFC. You get cut if you have zero personality regardless of how good you are. So you need to do some WWE style self promotions.

Some guys go way overboard like Colby.

Great tactical masterclass from Belal. Great win and deserves a title shot at the belt.

Some fighters are just fighters, they cant change their personality to create noise. Bilal has kept on beating everyone they put in front of him. Once he's champion there is no need for role play any longer. I think Belal will defend his belt and retire soon after.

Henry was too over confident, not enough work which made it easy for the bigger Aljo. Henry should retire again.

 

[Suleiman]

Great tactical masterclass from Belal. Great win and deserves a title shot at the belt.

Some fighters are just fighters, they cant change their personality to create noise. Bilal has kept on beating everyone they put in front of him. Once he's champion there is no need for role play any longer. I think Belal will defend his belt and retire soon after.

Henry was too over confident, not enough work which made it easy for the bigger Aljo. Henry should retire again.

They may be looking to do Khamzat vs Belal as well. I remember Belal said recently that he wanted to face Khamzat.

It’s probably going to be any of the 2 from Khamzat, Belal, Colby facing each other and winner faces Leon. Colby has been too inactive to deserve a straight spot for the title. Khamzat was super active but then they haven’t given him much since.

 

[KingKhanWC]

They may be looking to do Khamzat vs Belal as well. I remember Belal said recently that he wanted to face Khamzat.

It’s probably going to be any of the 2 from Khamzat, Belal, Colby facing each other and winner faces Leon. Colby has been too inactive to deserve a straight spot for the title. Khamzat was super active but then they haven’t given him much since.

I think Dana white has already decided Colby get the shot v Leon next and has made Belal aware. Leon thinks it will be him v Colby in Abu Dhabi but imo he will get a rude awakening when he has to defend his title in the US, as box office money will be far higher for all. Islam will face off with the winner of Charles and Dariush in Oct in Abu Dhabi imo.

I have a feeling Colby will beat Leon if its in the US by points. Colby will then face Belal in the US, which gives him a great chance to become champion. Colby will be over confident and if Belal is in good form, he will knock him out.

 

[Suleiman]

I think Dana white has already decided Colby get the shot v Leon next and has made Belal aware. Leon thinks it will be him v Colby in Abu Dhabi but imo he will get a rude awakening when he has to defend his title in the US, as box office money will be far higher for all. Islam will face off with the winner of Charles and Dariush in Oct in Abu Dhabi imo.

I have a feeling Colby will beat Leon if its in the US by points. Colby will then face Belal in the US, which gives him a great chance to become champion. Colby will be over confident and if Belal is in good form, he will knock him out.

You’re probably right, though I don’t think anyone really thinks Colby deserves a title shot. Beating a washed up Masvidal, losing to Usman right before while ducking Khamzat, and no fights to show for about a year.

Personally think Leon may take it Vs Colby, but it’s also because I want to see Belal and Leon run it back, as their first fight ended up with that awful eye incident.

 

[KingKhanWC]

You’re probably right, though I don’t think anyone really thinks Colby deserves a title shot. Beating a washed up Masvidal, losing to Usman right before while ducking Khamzat, and no fights to show for about a year.

Personally think Leon may take it Vs Colby, but it’s also because I want to see Belal and Leon run it back, as their first fight ended up with that awful eye incident.

Belal was going to the lost fight v Leon imo. The poke was a blessing in disguise, now Belal is a far better fighter, looks strong and of course his training and mentor with Khabib is a huge plus.

I like Leon he's a local lad from my town but I would love for a Palestinian UFC world champion! He might end up fighting the Israeli dude in the future too.

 

[Firebat]

Bellator 296: Fabian Edwards beats Gegard Mousasi in Paris to set up middleweight title shot

Fabian Edwards beat Gegard Mousasi by unanimous decision at Bellator 296 in Paris to set up a middleweight title fight against champion Johnny Eblen.

Briton Edwards was the cleaner striker and got the better of many of the grappling exchanges across the five rounds.

Following the bout, he was confronted by American Eblen who was at cage-side.

"One more fight until I get that gold belt and we make history," said Edwards.

Bellator confirmed Eblen would defend his title against Edwards on 23 September in Dublin.

The victory moves Birmingham's Edwards, 30, a step closer to MMA history and his dream of joining his brother Leon, who holds the UFC welterweight belt, as a champion.

Siblings like Anthony and Sergio Pettis, and Patricio and Patricky Freire, have all held world titles, but never at the same time across multiple major MMA promotions.

Edwards came into the bout on a two-fight win streak after beating Lyoto Machida and Charlie Ward last year - a run which has seen him rise to second in the Bellator middleweight rankings, one place behind Mousasi.

In Mousasi he was facing a former champion himself, with the Dutch fighter previously holding the middleweight title before losing it to Eblen in June.

Mousasi, 37, was taking part in the 60th bout of a distinguished 20-year MMA career, which has seen him headline bouts across multiple top promotions, including the UFC and Strikeforce.

In the build-up, Edwards described the meeting with Mousasi as the biggest bout of his 13-fight career, which has yielded 11 wins over six years.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/65578527

 

[Firebat]

Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has signed a deal with the Professional Fighters League.

 

[Firebat]

UFC 289: Amanda Nunes retires after dominant win over Irene Aldana

UFC star Amanda Nunes has announced her retirement after a dominant win over Irene Aldana at UFC 289.

The 35-year-old, widely regarded as the greatest ever women's mixed martial artist, is the only woman to have held two titles in the promotion.

After her victory at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, Canada, she laid down her two belts in the centre of the canvas and announced it was her last fight.

"Tonight is the perfect night to retire," she said.

"My mum has been asking me so much to do this for so long. She can't take it any more. I want to enjoy everything that I have made. I want to travel a bit with my family.

"I left my family in Brazil when I was so young for this dream but I never thought in my mind I would become a champion. But when I became a champion it was unbelievable.

"I'm from a small city in Brazil, no-one knows where it is, but I came here and I made it as a champion. Now I'm leaving. Thank you."

Nunes was in control of the bout throughout and defended her bantamweight title, winning by scores of 50-44, 50-44 and 50-43.

The Brazilian, who is also the UFC women's featherweight champion, has had a stellar career spanning 15 years and 27 fights, including two of the most dominant title reigns in UFC history.

During her career she has beaten a host of former champions, including Cris Cyborg, Ronda Rousey and Valentina Shevchenko.

She was originally set to face Julianna Pena in a trilogy fight before the former champion pulled out with injury last month and was replaced by Aldana.

https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/65864635

 

[Suleiman]

Charles and Islam are head and shoulders afridi) above rest of the LW division. Just like Colby + Usman were 2-3 years ago at WW.

Time for a rematch.

Charles is prob the most exciting fighter over the last few years and has a hell of a resume. But I gotta root for my brother Islam.

 

[daytrader]

Wow picture perfect knock out by Sean O'Malley, new UFC Bantamweight Champion

 

[Firebat]

Ciryl Gane's apartment was robbed while the heavyweight was fighting at UFC Paris on Saturday.

The Frenchman stopped Serghei Spivac in front of home fans at the Accor Arena.

But the 33-year-old Gane's home in Paris was broken into by thieves while he was at the event.

 

[Suleiman]

Had a feeling Sean would win and beat Izzy. He looked incredibly confident but realistic in the pre fight conference and had been talking mad trash all the way to the build up- may have gotten into Izzy’s head.

But also his style is one of the best counter styles to Izzy’s. Kept walking him down bravely. Beast.

Massive improvement from the Sean that fought Alex.

Also, respect to him for calling out the concentration camps in China which have our Uyghur brothers and sisters. So many people are afraid to do that, yet he kept it a 100

 

[Firebat]

Sean O'Malley: Conor McGregor levels of stardom 'inevitable' says UFC bantamweight champion

Reaching Conor McGregor levels of stardom is "inevitable", says UFC bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley.

American O'Malley, 28, knocked out Aljamain Sterling in stunning fashion last month for his first world title.

Despite the growth of MMA, no one is yet to achieve the level of recognition outside the sport as former double champion McGregor.

"100%, I've been saying since the Contender Series I can get there," said O'Malley.

"Just the stats, the analytics, the views, the outlets that are picking up what I do. It's inevitable."

In beating Sterling, O'Malley became just the second fighter after Jamahal Hill to win a UFC world title after earning a contract though UFC president Dana White's Contender Series in 2017.

Immediately following his victory, the UFC released footage of the knockout to a worldwide audience on their social media accounts - something the promotion rarely does due to rights deals with various broadcasters - perhaps indicating they also see star potential in O'Malley.

The clip has been watched over 54 million times across Instagram, X - formerly known as Twitter - YouTube, TikTok and Facebook.

McGregor level stardom 'inevitable' for me - O'Malley

UFC bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley says it is "inevitable" he will reach Conor McGregor levels of stardom.

www.bbc.com

 

[KingKhanWC]

Pakistani Balochi Shahzaib Rind wins in a bare knuckle v a Mexican. An excellent performance, this man is tough as nais. Hopefully he gets into the UFC.

Check out the flag and the headband.

 

[Firebat]

UFC: Alexa Grasso retains flyweight title with draw in Valentina Shevchenko rematch

UFC flyweight champion Alexa Grasso retained her title with a draw in a rematch with Valentina Shevchenko.

Grasso became Mexico's first female UFC champion when she beat the Kyrgyzstan-born fighter in March to win her title.

Shevchenko was dropped with a right hand in the second of five rounds in Las Vegas before she bounced back with good work in the third.

Both fighters were awarded a 48-47 win by one judge apiece, while the other scored it a draw.

"I'm super happy," said Grasso, 30. "I knew this was going to be a war.

"I knew that she was coming different to before but I was prepared for that. I was prepared for everything.

"I did everything I had to do, that's what I'm taking from this fight. I did a nice knockdown and almost finished her again."

Shevchenko, 35, said she broke her thumb in the first round and, while she continued, it "affected her performance a little bit".

However, she was "upset" as she felt she had won the fight as "from five rounds, three rounds were on my side".

She added: "It was a little bit like pressure on the judges because it is Mexican independence day."

Grasso retains UFC title with draw in Shevchenko rematch

UFC flyweight champion Alexa Grasso retains her title with a draw in a rematch with Valentina Shevchenko.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[Suleiman]

Pakistani Balochi Shahzaib Rind wins in a bare knuckle v a Mexican. An excellent performance, this man is tough as nais. Hopefully he gets into the UFC.

Check out the flag and the headband.

Agreed man. UFC is safer with the gloves, bare knuckle… seems tough to do for the long haul. Will get more recognition in the UFC too.

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Mohammed Usman believes the trauma he has suffered outside the cage has prepared him for the challenges that lie ahead in the UFC.

Usman's two-year-old son Nash tragically died in a drowning accident in 2019.

The UFC heavyweight spoke of his heartbreak during season 30 of The Ultimate Fighter and dedicated his finale victory over Zac Pauga to Nash.

"You've got to be one with your emotions and instead of masking them just embrace it," Usman tells BBC Sport.

"These emotions inside are like a whirlwind and they are fuelling me to compete. I just embrace the emotions, flow with them and let them carry me to the finish line."

"It's something that happened in my life, and I'm not saying that I'm trying to put it behind me, but you get to a certain point where there are some things you don't need to keep peeling the wound back," Usman says.

"I don't just want to keep opening up my scab, I just want to let him [Nash] rest in peace."

The Nigerian recognises he isn't alone in going through a hugely life-altering experience but believes, with the support of family and friends, he has emerged as a stronger person.

Usman says: "You can't judge anyone until you know their story and a lot of fighters have been through something traumatic.


BBC

 

[Firebat]

Bellator 299: Johnny Eblen and Fabian Edwards separated at heated face-off in Dublin

Middleweight champion Johnny Eblen and Britain's Fabian Edwards had to be separated at a heated face-off before their title bout at Bellator 299.

Tensions threatened to boil over when the pair met after making weight for Saturday's fight in Dublin.

Security intervened as they exchanged words while being spurred on by onlooking team-mates.

Edwards' team repeatedly said "and the new", which was met by chants of "and still" by American Eblen's contingency.

Birmingham's Edwards, 30, is aiming to join his brother and UFC welterweight title holder Leon, as a world champion.

Leon was in attendance to support his younger sibling at the weigh-in, nodding in approval as he walked on stage, but was quiet, disengaging from most of the heckling.

As 31-year-old Eblen was introduced, he raised his belt emphatically towards the audience, before outlining his desire to defeat Edwards and remain champion.

Eblen, who is unbeaten in all 13 of his fights, will be making the second defence of his belt, while Edwards comes into the bout on a three-fight winning streak after beating former champion Gegard Mousasi in a title eliminator in May.

Eblen and Edwards clash at Bellator weigh-in

Champion Johnny Eblen and Britain's Fabian Edwards are separated during a heated face-off before Bellator 299 in Dublin.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[Firebat]

Bellator 299: Fabian Edwards stopped by Johnny Eblen in middleweight title bout

Briton Fabian Edwards' middleweight title dream was ended by Johnny Eblen as the American secured a third-round stoppage at Bellator 299 in Dublin.

Eblen, 31, dropped Edwards with an overhand right in the third round and finished the fight with ground punches.

Edwards, 30, was hoping to emulate his brother and UFC welterweight champion, Leon, in becoming a world champion.

Following the bout Leon and Eblen had to be separated, before appearing to reconcile shortly after.

Leon appeared to get angered after Eblen shouted something at his younger brother following the victory, and approached the American before security intervened.

"He did really well controlling my wrists and popping up. Over time I am going to wear you down, it's going to get harder to get up," said Eblen.

"He was getting a little bit tired and he thought I was going to turn into a wrestler. I can strike for five rounds. I can strike, I can wrestle, I can grapple, I can do it all."

Read more: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/mixed-martial-arts/66903763

 

[Firebat]

Israel Adesanya: UFC star apologises for drink driving

UFC fighter Israel Adesanya has apologised for getting "behind the wheel after drinking at a dinner" in Auckland.

Adesanya pleaded guilty to drink driving when he attended a court hearing in New Zealand and will return for sentencing on 10 January.

"I am disappointed with my decision to drive, It was wrong," said Adesanya.

"I know that people might follow me and I want them to know I do not think this behaviour is acceptable."

Nigeria-born New Zealander Adesanya was beaten by Sean Strickland earlier this month when he lost his middleweight title at UFC 293.

"I want to apologise to the community, my family and my team for the decision I made to get behind the wheel after drinking at a dinner," he said.

UFC star Adesanya apologises for drink driving

UFC fighter Israel Adesanya apologises for getting "behind the wheel after drinking at a dinner" in Auckland.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[Cricket Warrior]

Bellator 300: Usman Nurmagomedov outclasses Brent Primus to retain lightweight title

Usman Nurmagomedov outclassed Brent Primus to retain his lightweight title at Bellator 300 in San Diego, California.

The Russian, 25, was the better striker and grappler throughout on his way to a unanimous decision win.

Nurmagomedov advances to the $1m (£817,000) Lightweight Grand Prix final.

He will face either Patricky 'Pitbull' Freire or Alexander Shaily, who fight at Bellator 301 on 17 November.

In the co-main event, Cris Cyborg stopped Cat Zingano in the first round to defend her featherweight title in a dominant performance.

Following victory, Brazil's Cyborg faced off with her next opponent - Northern Ireland's Leah McCourt, who beat Sara McMann earlier in the night.

In the third title fight, Liz Carmouche defended her belt against fellow American Ilima-Lei Macfarlane with a fifth-round stoppage.

Macfarlane, who was ineligible to win the title after missing weight on Friday, injured her left leg in the third round, which Carmouche took full advantage of by delivering a fight-ending leg kick with just under five minutes remaining.

Nurmagomedov outclasses Primus to retain title

Usman Nurmagomedov outclasses Brent Primus to retain his lightweight title at Bellator 300 in San Diego, California.

www.bbc.com

 

[Firebat]

Bellator: Fabian Edwards pens new multi-fight contract with MMA promotion

British fighter Fabian Edwards has signed a multi-fight extension with Bellator MMA.

Edwards, 30, is currently recovering after losing his first title tilt at Bellator 299 in Dublin.

American champion Johnny Eblen successfully defended his middleweight belt in a thrilling fight with Edwards.

Bellator could be sold in the coming months, but Edwards has decided to commit his immediate future to the MMA promotion.

Edwards has some impressive wins inside the Bellator cage against the likes of Lyoto Machida and former champion Gegard Mousasi.

After losing to Eblen via third-round stoppage, Edwards immediately said he would be targeting a rematch with the middleweight champion in 2024.

"I want three fights back-to-back next year, then I'll take the strap," Edwards said.

Edwards signs new deal with Bellator

British fighter Fabian Edwards has re-signed with Bellator, extending his contract with the MMA promotion.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[Firebat]

UFC: Sean Strickland v Dricus du Plessis among three title bouts announced for 2024

UFC president Dana White has announced three UFC title bouts for 2024, including a middleweight clash between Sean Strickland and Dricus du Plessis.

American Strickland, 32, who shocked Israel Adesanya in September, makes the first defence of his belt against South Africa's Du Plessis, 29, at UFC 297 on 20 January in Toronto, Canada.

Alexander Volkanovski puts his featherweight title on the line against Ilia Topuria in February, and Sean O'Malley defends his bantamweight belt against Marlon Vera in March.

The featherweight and bantamweight fights are yet to have timings and locations confirmed by the UFC.

Australia's Volkanovski, 35, who stepped in on short notice last month in the defeat by Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title, returns to featherweight to make the sixth defence of his belt against 26-year-old Georgian Topuria.

American O'Malley, 29, defends the title he won off Aljamain Sterling in August for the first time against former foe Marlon 'Chito' Vera.

Brazil's Vera, 30, dealt O'Malley the only defeat of his 11-fight UFC career in 2020 with a first-round stoppage.

Strickland-Du Plessis among three new UFC title bouts

UFC president Dana White announces three UFC title bouts to take place in 2024.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[hassan918]

Jake Paul talks possibility of MMA bout with Nate Diaz

After winning their boxing match this past August, the YouTuber turned professional fighter Jake Paul says he is more than serious about rematching Nate Diaz in mixed martial arts.

Paul moved to 7-1 in his young boxing career with a comprehensive points win over the former UFC title challenger Diaz and while he has maintained that his combat sports future will primarily come between the ropes, his signing earlier this year with the PFL has led to speculation that his first MMA bout — possibly in 2024 — could come against Diaz. And speaking to Sports Illustrated, Paul said he is all for it — but Diaz, not so much.

“I wanted the MMA fight against Nate,” he said. “Nate Diaz is the perfect opponent, but he’s ducked and keeps offering excuses. He’s demanding more money when he hasn’t made the amount of money we’re offering for an MMA fight, ever. He keeps playing these games. I would love to test my skills against him. I have a wrestling background, I have the boxing. It would be interesting.”

But before any move into MMA, Paul next month takes on his ninth professional boxing match against an opponent who comes from a pugilistic background, Andre August. It will be just the second time in his career Paul will have faced what some might describe as a ‘traditional’ boxer.

“I’m on a path where I’m growing as a fighter,” he said. “I want to win a world championship at my weight class. That’s not a marketing tactic. It’s real. Andre August is the next step in my path.

“We did the cool entertaining pay-per-views, and now we’re focusing more on me being a young boxing prospect,” Paul added. “Most prospects in their ninth fight haven’t had the same experience or eyeballs on them that I have, so I’m unique in that regard. And it’s a win-win situation for Andre August. That’s what makes him even more dangerous. This is his opportunity to change his career forever.”

Source: themaclife

 

[hassan918]

Not sure why Nate Diaz is making excuses. He seems to be a better fighter on paper. The guy who beat Tony Ferguson in his last fight about a year ago shouldn't be afraid of a fight against Jake Paul.

 

[Firebat]

UFC Fight Night: Dana White criticises 'bad stoppage' at Austin event

Dana White says a delayed stoppage at UFC Fight Night in Austin was "one of the worst I've ever seen".

Referee Kerry Hatley was widely criticised for allowing Jalin Turner to continue raining blows on Bobby Green while he lay on the canvas unable to defend himself.

"He knows he made a mistake tonight and does not feel not feel good about it, so it's unfortunate," UFC president White said.

"It was definitely a bad stoppage."

Following the first-round stoppage in the lightweight contest, Green was able to leave the Octagon without assistance.

He later congratulated Turner on the win in a social media post.

Turner, meanwhile, said he did consider whether the fight should be stopped but was also wary of Green staging a recovery.

"Bobby is a really tough fighter," he said.

"It is what it is. He was healthy. He was good. He was coherent afterward. We had good words, so I was happy he was in decent health. So it is what it is."

However, former fighters were critical of Hatley, who is an experienced referee.

English ex-world champion Michael Bisping, commentating on the fight for ESPN, said it was "disgusting".

"He was face down, he was getting teed off on by a world-class, very powerful striker. Kerry Hatley is a great referee, but what the hell was he waiting for?

"Peoples' lives are at stake, their long-term health is at stake. That was utterly disgusting and disgraceful."

Former two-weight UFC champion Daniel Cormier posted on social media that it was: "One of the absolute worst stoppages in MMA history. On your stomach taking punches and it still isn't enough. Crazy!"

UFC lightweight Chase Hooper called it "brutal," adding: "At no point was he able to intelligently defend himself in that. Ref should've stopped it after one or two shots on the ground max."

And Dustin Poirier said it was a "horrible stoppage".

Elsewhere on the card, Arman Tsarukyan insisted he would soon be a champion after his first-round knockout of Beneil Dariush in the night's main event.

The Armenian lightweight took 64 seconds to see off the American, landing a blow with the knee and following it up with a flurry of punches.

"I am a top five fighter, number three or number two. Hopefully next fight is going to be for the title. I'm going to be a champion, trust me guys," he said.

UFC boss White criticises referee over 'bad stoppage'

UFC president Dana White criticises a referee for failing to end a bout earlier, with the official's delayed decision angering fighters.

www.bbc.co.uk

 

[The Bald Eagle]

UFC 296: Colby Covington Goes Off On Khamzat Chimaev For "Ruining" Planned Fight

Covington claims Chimaev ruined their potential UFC fight

Colby Covington continues to hurl digs at Khamzat Chimaev.

Covington has a UFC welterweight title fight coming up against champion Leon Edwards on December 16, but he has a few choice words for Khamzat Chimaev.

Chimaev has certainly known how to ruffle some feathers in the UFC, which is perhaps one thing he shares in common with Covington. The two have even been hurling barbs at one another. "Borz" has claimed that Covington is "scared" to fight him, while "Chaos" has declared that Chimaev "sucks" inside the Octagon.

During an interview with ESPN, Colby Covington said that he didn't intend to be away from action for almost two years.

"It's been extremely tough because as soon as I got done with that fight with Jorge in March I went backstage to Hunter Campbell and I said, 'Hunter, I want to fight again in June or July. Get me back in there. I need to fight. I'm in my prime right now, I want to go capitalize."

Covington claimed that he was due for a massive showdown with Khamzat Chimaev, but he says "Borz's" inability to make the welterweight limit consistently iced those plans.

Source : Fan Nation MMA

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Colby is just bragging even he knows deep inside that he does stand a chance against khamzat. Khamzat is going to chew him in and spit him out.

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Volkanovski considers Topuria overrated and warns: I will ruin his plans​

The date of ufc 198 is getting closer and closer. The main event of the evening will be the fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria for the featherweight title, a category that the Aussie dominates with an iron fist. The highly anticipated bout will take place on February 17 at the Honda Center in Anaheim (California, USA).

Volkanovski has revealed in The MMA Hour to Ariel Helwani that for the first time in his career he suffered a concussion as a result of the KO suffered against Islam Makhachev, but he assures that he will receive the 'Matador' in top shape. What 'The Great' has done in social networks is to talk about a possible match-up with his training partner Justin Van Heerden (12-5-0 in MMA), against the Topuria brothers.

During his interview on The MMA Hour,
Volkanovski talked about his next opponent and noted that he has yet to prove himself enough to be being talked about so much, saying: "I'm not saying he's not good. He could be as good as he says, he could be as good as everybody says, but he hasn't proven it yet. [...] I just haven't seen that elite stuff from him yet."

In addition, the Australian champion offered his explanation as to why UFC wanted Ilia in a title fight, "Ufc takes steps forward and that's how it works, so I'm sure they have their plans already. I think [Topuria] mentioned an event in Spain, I think that's a possibility. I'm sure they want to go there [UFC], I'm sure it's a big market and they have a big following there. So, make a title fight [UFC 298] and generate some buzz there. He won't get the belt, so I'm going to ruin all his plans. But at least he gets a boost, a little bit of publicity during".

Source : Marca News

 

[The Bald Eagle]

Volkanovski now thinking to hunt on small fishes. Must find a bigger challenge for himself.