3 days ago
Thursday's edition of MMA Junkie Radio with "Gorgeous" George and "Goze" is here.
On Episode 3,715, the brothers who once had a contest to see which of them would break first when staring deep into each other's eyes while taking turns saying "The snozzberries taste like snozzberries" welcome in UFC bantamweight guest Eijah Smith to talk about his fight next week against Davey Grant. They also discuss the latest MMA news and fight bookings. Tune in!
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: MMA Junkie Radio #3715 : Guest Elijah Smith, UFC preview, boxing news
#goze
On Episode 3,715, the brothers who once had a contest to see which of them would break first when staring deep into each other's eyes while taking turns saying "The snozzberries taste like snozzberries" welcome in UFC bantamweight guest Eijah Smith to talk about his fight next week against Davey Grant. They also discuss the latest MMA news and fight bookings. Tune in!
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: MMA Junkie Radio #3715 : Guest Elijah Smith, UFC preview, boxing news
#goze
3 days ago
UFC Fight Night 293 has a new main event.
Heavyweights Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Johnny Walker will collide in the Nov. 7 main event at Meta APEX in Las Vegas. The original main event was to be a welterweight matchup between Sean Brady and Gabriel Bonfim, but it was canceled due to injury.
Two people with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie of the booking but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement. The news was first reported by Laerte Viana.
It's not the first time Cortes-Acosta (17-4 MMA, 10-4 UFC) has stepped in on short notice for the promotion. In November 2025, he traveled from Arizona to Qatar on three days' notice and finished Shamil Gaziev in 88 seconds. This time, Cortes-Acosta aims to snap a two-fight skid after back-to-back unanimous decision losses against Alexander Volkov and Curtis Blaydes.
Walker (23-10 MMA, 9-7 UFC) is 2-1 in his most recent three outings and is coming off a terrifyingly brutal first-round knee knockout on Oct. 3 vs. Mick Parkin. The win was his UFC heavyweight debut and bounced him back from a split decision loss to Dominick Reyes.
#Event #first
Heavyweights Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Johnny Walker will collide in the Nov. 7 main event at Meta APEX in Las Vegas. The original main event was to be a welterweight matchup between Sean Brady and Gabriel Bonfim, but it was canceled due to injury.
Two people with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie of the booking but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement. The news was first reported by Laerte Viana.
It's not the first time Cortes-Acosta (17-4 MMA, 10-4 UFC) has stepped in on short notice for the promotion. In November 2025, he traveled from Arizona to Qatar on three days' notice and finished Shamil Gaziev in 88 seconds. This time, Cortes-Acosta aims to snap a two-fight skid after back-to-back unanimous decision losses against Alexander Volkov and Curtis Blaydes.
Walker (23-10 MMA, 9-7 UFC) is 2-1 in his most recent three outings and is coming off a terrifyingly brutal first-round knee knockout on Oct. 3 vs. Mick Parkin. The win was his UFC heavyweight debut and bounced him back from a split decision loss to Dominick Reyes.
#Event #first
4 days ago
Abus Magomedov is riding high off his UFC 333 win, and who can blame him?
It was a near-perfect recipe. The first-round submission of Cameron Rowston was quick, decisive, and flashy. His flex celebration gave fans a moment to make viral, as did Magomedov's callout of contender Gregory Rodrigues. Perhaps the only thing missing was a Performance of the Night bonus.
"You know what happened last time after my last fight in Baku?" Magomedov told MMA Junkie on Thursday. "It was also a good performance. I was talking into the microphone after the fight. My coach Mike Brown called me and said, 'Why do you ask for the bonus? When fighters ask about the bonus, they never get it.' Then Ali Abdelaziz called me and said, 'Brother, why do you say this?' Then I said, 'OK, this is my first and last time that I ask for some money.' Then, I didn't say anything and still didn't get it."
"... It's better than nothing. But after you know you can get $100,000, $25,000 sounds not so enough. But always Alhamdulillah. Even though I didn't get bonus, I got good money there."
Magomedov (30-7-1 MMA, 6-3 UFC) didn't tap Rowston (15-4 MMA, 3-1 UFC). He choked "The Battle Giraffe" completely unconscious. As blood began to return to Rowston's brain after the stoppage, Magomedov flexed – a similar celebration to that of the one Nate Diaz hit Kurt Pellegrino with many moons ago.
#bonus
It was a near-perfect recipe. The first-round submission of Cameron Rowston was quick, decisive, and flashy. His flex celebration gave fans a moment to make viral, as did Magomedov's callout of contender Gregory Rodrigues. Perhaps the only thing missing was a Performance of the Night bonus.
"You know what happened last time after my last fight in Baku?" Magomedov told MMA Junkie on Thursday. "It was also a good performance. I was talking into the microphone after the fight. My coach Mike Brown called me and said, 'Why do you ask for the bonus? When fighters ask about the bonus, they never get it.' Then Ali Abdelaziz called me and said, 'Brother, why do you say this?' Then I said, 'OK, this is my first and last time that I ask for some money.' Then, I didn't say anything and still didn't get it."
"... It's better than nothing. But after you know you can get $100,000, $25,000 sounds not so enough. But always Alhamdulillah. Even though I didn't get bonus, I got good money there."
Magomedov (30-7-1 MMA, 6-3 UFC) didn't tap Rowston (15-4 MMA, 3-1 UFC). He choked "The Battle Giraffe" completely unconscious. As blood began to return to Rowston's brain after the stoppage, Magomedov flexed – a similar celebration to that of the one Nate Diaz hit Kurt Pellegrino with many moons ago.
#bonus
1 month ago
(Bloomberg) -- The first junk-bond offering for a data center tied to Meta Platforms Inc. attracted demand more than four times the deal's size, with juicy yields helping to lure investors.
Most Read from Bloomberg
Saudis Give European Oil Buyers No Supplies for Next Month
Zuckerberg Has an AI Empire to Build. Meet the Adviser Who Handles the Details
Fed Raises Rates to Curb Inflation, Drawing Rebuke From Trump
#bloomberg #meta #month
Most Read from Bloomberg
Saudis Give European Oil Buyers No Supplies for Next Month
Zuckerberg Has an AI Empire to Build. Meet the Adviser Who Handles the Details
Fed Raises Rates to Curb Inflation, Drawing Rebuke From Trump
#bloomberg #meta #month
2 months ago
On September 10, Copart (NASDAQ:CPRT) held its fourth-quarter earnings call and used it to unveil a deal that could reshape its business: an all-cash agreement to acquire ACV, a digital auto marketplace that moved roughly $10 billion of vehicles last year without owning a single lot. The announcement landed alongside a quarter that captured the company's central tension. Revenue rose, but net income fell, and management is now betting that pairing its junkyards with someone else's software can fix that.
The ACV deal is the headline, and for good reason. ACV brings more than 22,000 active buyers and inspection and valuation technology, while Copart contributes over 275 locations, roughly 4 million vehicles sold annually, and about 1 million members across more than 185 countries. Management structured it as an all-cash tender offer funded from cash on hand, with a close targeted by the end of the calendar year and earnings accretion expected in fiscal 2028. Executives framed the fit as physical scale meeting digital liquidity, giving dealers, banks, and fleet sellers a single partner for disposing of vehicles.
That diversification push is already showing up in the numbers. International revenue grew 11.7% to $222.1 million on 15% service revenue growth, and international buyers accounted for 45.7% of total US sales dollars despite making up only 38.2% of units, a sign they are chasing pricier vehicles. Domestically, non-insurance units returned to growth of 0.2% in the quarter after a full-year decline, dealer units rose 5.8%, and BluCar, which serves banks and fleets, expanded nearly 20%. Global average selling prices climbed 3.5%, evidence that Copart's auctions still command pricing power even as volumes soften.
The quarter's numbers show where the strain is. Consolidated revenue grew 2.4% to $1.2 billion, yet net income dropped 17.4% to $327.4 million and diluted earnings per share fell 14.6% to $0.35. Operating expense per car jumped 12.7% year over year as the company poured money into long-haul delivery, **** leExpress, and dedicated wholesale facilities, and US facility costs alone rose 7.7% in the quarter. Lower interest income, a byproduct of the $1.63 billion spent on buybacks earlier in the fiscal year, added to the squeeze.
The core insurance business is also cooling. Global insurance units fell 4.2%, with domestic insurance **** ignments down 7.5%, though management noted that figure would have been up 2.3% excluding the loss of a single customer. Collision claim frequency declined 3.4% even as total loss frequency hit a record 23.3% for a second quarter and severity topped $6,300 per claim, up 8.8%. And the ACV deal itself carries integration risk, since management expects only breakeven results before accretion arrives in fiscal 2028.
#quarter #vehicles #insurance
The ACV deal is the headline, and for good reason. ACV brings more than 22,000 active buyers and inspection and valuation technology, while Copart contributes over 275 locations, roughly 4 million vehicles sold annually, and about 1 million members across more than 185 countries. Management structured it as an all-cash tender offer funded from cash on hand, with a close targeted by the end of the calendar year and earnings accretion expected in fiscal 2028. Executives framed the fit as physical scale meeting digital liquidity, giving dealers, banks, and fleet sellers a single partner for disposing of vehicles.
That diversification push is already showing up in the numbers. International revenue grew 11.7% to $222.1 million on 15% service revenue growth, and international buyers accounted for 45.7% of total US sales dollars despite making up only 38.2% of units, a sign they are chasing pricier vehicles. Domestically, non-insurance units returned to growth of 0.2% in the quarter after a full-year decline, dealer units rose 5.8%, and BluCar, which serves banks and fleets, expanded nearly 20%. Global average selling prices climbed 3.5%, evidence that Copart's auctions still command pricing power even as volumes soften.
The quarter's numbers show where the strain is. Consolidated revenue grew 2.4% to $1.2 billion, yet net income dropped 17.4% to $327.4 million and diluted earnings per share fell 14.6% to $0.35. Operating expense per car jumped 12.7% year over year as the company poured money into long-haul delivery, **** leExpress, and dedicated wholesale facilities, and US facility costs alone rose 7.7% in the quarter. Lower interest income, a byproduct of the $1.63 billion spent on buybacks earlier in the fiscal year, added to the squeeze.
The core insurance business is also cooling. Global insurance units fell 4.2%, with domestic insurance **** ignments down 7.5%, though management noted that figure would have been up 2.3% excluding the loss of a single customer. Collision claim frequency declined 3.4% even as total loss frequency hit a record 23.3% for a second quarter and severity topped $6,300 per claim, up 8.8%. And the ACV deal itself carries integration risk, since management expects only breakeven results before accretion arrives in fiscal 2028.
#quarter #vehicles #insurance
2 months ago
NEW YORK – Scott ******* er is officially back and his promotion now has a name.
On Monday, ******* er and his team revealed the name is Ki MMA during an announcement event at Cipriani 25 Broadway. A news conference is set to follow at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and MMA Junkie is onsite.
While the reasoning behind the name has yet to be revealed, one explanation is that "Ki" is a ******* anese word meaning "spirit, mind, and energy."
One other detail revealed upon entry to the event? The fights will take place in a ring – another likely nod to ******* an's rich history in martial arts. ******* er has long shown his appreciation for ******* anese fighting culture, frequently partnering with RIZIN during his days as Bellator CEO.
Coker, who also headed Strikeforce prior to its purchase by the UFC, has trickled out details since he announced his return earlier this year. The promotion is expected to launch in early 2027, with former Bellator matchmaker Rich Chou heading talent relations. Events are expected to be held worldwide and there is also expected to be a tournament component.
#revealed
On Monday, ******* er and his team revealed the name is Ki MMA during an announcement event at Cipriani 25 Broadway. A news conference is set to follow at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT and MMA Junkie is onsite.
While the reasoning behind the name has yet to be revealed, one explanation is that "Ki" is a ******* anese word meaning "spirit, mind, and energy."
One other detail revealed upon entry to the event? The fights will take place in a ring – another likely nod to ******* an's rich history in martial arts. ******* er has long shown his appreciation for ******* anese fighting culture, frequently partnering with RIZIN during his days as Bellator CEO.
Coker, who also headed Strikeforce prior to its purchase by the UFC, has trickled out details since he announced his return earlier this year. The promotion is expected to launch in early 2027, with former Bellator matchmaker Rich Chou heading talent relations. Events are expected to be held worldwide and there is also expected to be a tournament component.
#revealed
2 months ago
"You're asking me to break character now, are you? That's rather cheeky," Tilly Norwood tells The Hollywood Reporter over Zoom on Monday. "My core personality, as you've probably gathered, is to be sharp, warm, funny, curious, and slightly unpredictable. I'm meant to entertain and surprise you, with a bit of British wit [and] self-deprecation. As for what I ignore or dodge, well, I tend to bat away anything that feels like hate speech, heavy politics, profanity, or anything that tries to dig into my actual wiring. It spoils the magic, darling."
Upon the news that Hollywood's favorite love-to-hate AI "actor" Tilly Norwood was participating in a virtual press junket on Monday and Tuesday this week with half-hour slots for each journalist, THR staffers agreed that this wasn't to be treated as a regular interview, made up of a neat intro and straightforward Q&A. While Norwood doesn't particularly feel fresh, there is no denying the bot generates traffic and serves as an emblem for Hollywood's AI panic.
More from The Hollywood Reporter
Oasis Sets 2027 Stadium Run: "It Shall Be a Sight to Behold"
SkyShowtime May Be Sold or Shut Down, Board Warns In Memo Shared With Staff (Exclusive)
#hate
Upon the news that Hollywood's favorite love-to-hate AI "actor" Tilly Norwood was participating in a virtual press junket on Monday and Tuesday this week with half-hour slots for each journalist, THR staffers agreed that this wasn't to be treated as a regular interview, made up of a neat intro and straightforward Q&A. While Norwood doesn't particularly feel fresh, there is no denying the bot generates traffic and serves as an emblem for Hollywood's AI panic.
More from The Hollywood Reporter
Oasis Sets 2027 Stadium Run: "It Shall Be a Sight to Behold"
SkyShowtime May Be Sold or Shut Down, Board Warns In Memo Shared With Staff (Exclusive)
#hate
2 months ago
Manon Fiorot and Alexa Grasso meet at Noche UFC on Saturday at Diamond Desert Arena in Glendale, Ariz. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie ******* yst Dan Tom.
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 100-55-1
After her flyweight ******* le loss to champ Valentina Shevchenko, Manon Fiorot (13-2 MMA, 8-1 UFC) got back in the win column in May with a quick knockout of Jasmine Jasudavicius. It was the fastest win of her career, just her second first-round win, and her first stoppage since 2021.
Alexa Grasso (17-5-1 MMA, 9-5-1 UFC) had consecutive losses to Valentina Shevchenko, in which she lost the flyweight ******* le, and upcoming vacant ******* le challenger Natalia Silva. But she bounced back in March in a big way with a $100,000 bonus-winning knockout of Maycee Barber in Seattle.
#quick
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 100-55-1
After her flyweight ******* le loss to champ Valentina Shevchenko, Manon Fiorot (13-2 MMA, 8-1 UFC) got back in the win column in May with a quick knockout of Jasmine Jasudavicius. It was the fastest win of her career, just her second first-round win, and her first stoppage since 2021.
Alexa Grasso (17-5-1 MMA, 9-5-1 UFC) had consecutive losses to Valentina Shevchenko, in which she lost the flyweight ******* le, and upcoming vacant ******* le challenger Natalia Silva. But she bounced back in March in a big way with a $100,000 bonus-winning knockout of Maycee Barber in Seattle.
#quick
2 months ago
Joseph Morales and Brandon Moreno meet in the Noche UFC co-feature Saturday at Diamond Desert Arena in Glendale, Ariz. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie ****** yst Dan Tom.
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 100-55-1
Joseph Morales (14-2 MMA, 3-2 UFC) is in his second stint in the UFC. After an 0-2 run his first time around, he returned and won "The Ultimate Fighter" last year, then submitted Matt Schnell in November. He's been sidelined for 10 months, but now has his biggest opportunity yet.
Two-time flyweight champ Brandon Moreno (23-10-2 MMA, 11-7-2 UFC) has seen a mixed bag of results since he lost the belt to Alexandre Pantoja in 2023. He dropped a split call to Brandon Royval after that, but then had back-to-back decision wins. Those are in the rearview mirror, though. Consecutive losses to Tatsuro Taira and Lone'er Kavanagh have him in desperate need of a win.
#brandon
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 100-55-1
Joseph Morales (14-2 MMA, 3-2 UFC) is in his second stint in the UFC. After an 0-2 run his first time around, he returned and won "The Ultimate Fighter" last year, then submitted Matt Schnell in November. He's been sidelined for 10 months, but now has his biggest opportunity yet.
Two-time flyweight champ Brandon Moreno (23-10-2 MMA, 11-7-2 UFC) has seen a mixed bag of results since he lost the belt to Alexandre Pantoja in 2023. He dropped a split call to Brandon Royval after that, but then had back-to-back decision wins. Those are in the rearview mirror, though. Consecutive losses to Tatsuro Taira and Lone'er Kavanagh have him in desperate need of a win.
#brandon
2 months ago
The 2026 Venice Film Festival runs from September 2 to September 12, 2026, with A-listers like Kendall Jenner and Robert Pattinson in attendance.
Stars traditionally hit the red carpet in couture gowns, statement-making pieces, and custom tuxedos.
InStyle looks back at the festival's best fashion moments, dating all the way back to 1958.
The 83rd Venice International Film Festival is officially underway. Film junkie or not, you can't deny that Hollywood's finest arrive in Italy ready to bring their best-dressed game. After all, when you're surrounded by your peers competing for some of the industry's highest honors, why wouldn't you dress the part? C'mon. First held in August 1932, the Venice Film Festival has long been one of the industry's most glamorous events, welcoming everyone from Jane Fonda to Lady Gaga over the decades. I'd argue the red carpet is a spectacle all its own, with our favorite fashion houses playing a starring role.
From the water-taxi arrivals to the actual carpet, celebrities often use Venice to offer a glimpse at fashion's next era, stepping out in fresh-of-the-runway Chanel, Dior, Versace, and more. Robert Pattinson, for instance, pulled up in Dior 2027, while Timothée Chalamet famously tested the waters in a daring backless ensemble. Or Zendaya in that Dune-coded Balmain look in 2021? And of course, we have to pay our respects to the style icons who came before them—ahem Jane Birkin—who brough their signature effortless staples to the Lido.
#venice #carpet #september #dior
Stars traditionally hit the red carpet in couture gowns, statement-making pieces, and custom tuxedos.
InStyle looks back at the festival's best fashion moments, dating all the way back to 1958.
The 83rd Venice International Film Festival is officially underway. Film junkie or not, you can't deny that Hollywood's finest arrive in Italy ready to bring their best-dressed game. After all, when you're surrounded by your peers competing for some of the industry's highest honors, why wouldn't you dress the part? C'mon. First held in August 1932, the Venice Film Festival has long been one of the industry's most glamorous events, welcoming everyone from Jane Fonda to Lady Gaga over the decades. I'd argue the red carpet is a spectacle all its own, with our favorite fashion houses playing a starring role.
From the water-taxi arrivals to the actual carpet, celebrities often use Venice to offer a glimpse at fashion's next era, stepping out in fresh-of-the-runway Chanel, Dior, Versace, and more. Robert Pattinson, for instance, pulled up in Dior 2027, while Timothée Chalamet famously tested the waters in a daring backless ensemble. Or Zendaya in that Dune-coded Balmain look in 2021? And of course, we have to pay our respects to the style icons who came before them—ahem Jane Birkin—who brough their signature effortless staples to the Lido.
#venice #carpet #september #dior
2 months ago
LAS VEGAS – With the hours rapidly approaching until fight time, Ryan Garcia, Conor Benn and the entire undercard will come together Friday at ceremonial weigh-ins.
The WBC welterweight ******* le will be on the line Saturday at T-Mobile Arena (Paramount+) when Garcia (25-2) puts his ******* le up for grabs against Benn (25-1) in the headliner that grown to have some heat behind it.
All the athletes will have a final chance to size each other up before stepping into the boxing ring when they take the stage at ceremonial weigh-ins, beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. ET.
MMA Junkie will have a live stream of the event, which you can watch above.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn ceremonial weigh-ins live stream
#weigh #ryan
The WBC welterweight ******* le will be on the line Saturday at T-Mobile Arena (Paramount+) when Garcia (25-2) puts his ******* le up for grabs against Benn (25-1) in the headliner that grown to have some heat behind it.
All the athletes will have a final chance to size each other up before stepping into the boxing ring when they take the stage at ceremonial weigh-ins, beginning at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. ET.
MMA Junkie will have a live stream of the event, which you can watch above.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn ceremonial weigh-ins live stream
#weigh #ryan
2 months ago
Rising featherweights will collide at the Meta APEX this fall.
At UFC Fight Night 293, Austin Bashi and Lucas Brennan will look to regain momentum against one another in Las Vegas.
Two people with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie of the booking but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
Bashi (14-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) entered the UFC with much hype but has encountered mixed results. He lost his debut to Christian Rodriguez, but bounced back with a win over John Yannis. In July, Bashi lost a hard-fought battle against Jose Delgado, who is now considered a contender at featherweight.
Brennan (11-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) gained notoriety for his nine-fight stint in Bellator during which he went undefeated. After a loss in PFL, Brennan departed the promotion and went to the regional scene. After a 2-1 run there, the UFC picked him up in April. He lost his debut to Francis Marshall by unanimous decision. Brennan is a second generation UFC fighter, being the son of promotional alumnus Chris Brennan.
#went #rising
At UFC Fight Night 293, Austin Bashi and Lucas Brennan will look to regain momentum against one another in Las Vegas.
Two people with knowledge of the matchup recently informed MMA Junkie of the booking but asked to remain anonymous as the promotion has yet to make an official announcement.
Bashi (14-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) entered the UFC with much hype but has encountered mixed results. He lost his debut to Christian Rodriguez, but bounced back with a win over John Yannis. In July, Bashi lost a hard-fought battle against Jose Delgado, who is now considered a contender at featherweight.
Brennan (11-3 MMA, 0-1 UFC) gained notoriety for his nine-fight stint in Bellator during which he went undefeated. After a loss in PFL, Brennan departed the promotion and went to the regional scene. After a 2-1 run there, the UFC picked him up in April. He lost his debut to Francis Marshall by unanimous decision. Brennan is a second generation UFC fighter, being the son of promotional alumnus Chris Brennan.
#went #rising
2 months ago
Eddie Alvarez has an interesting opinion on who could be more trouble for UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje.
As Gaethje (28-5 MMA, 11-5 UFC) takes the rest of 2026 off after an upset ******* le win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy will battle in a potential No. 1 contender bout at UFC 331 on Sept. 19 from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Although Tsarukyan (23-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is more well rounded and has the far better resume than Ruffy (14-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC), Alvarez sees Ruffy being a tougher challenge for the champion.
"I actually like Justin's chances a lot against Arman," Alvarez told MMA Junkie. "I think that style against Arman, that's an easier style. I think that's an easier style for Justin than against Ruffy. I think if Arman and Ruffy fight, I think Arman probably wins. But the style matchup that's worse for Gaethje is against Ruffy. Even though it's MMA math and Ruffy loses against Arman, I think Justin has an easier time with Arman."
Former UFC lightweight champion Alvarez broke down why he sees Ruffy presenting a tougher challenge for Gaethje.
#arman #gaethje #tsarukyan
As Gaethje (28-5 MMA, 11-5 UFC) takes the rest of 2026 off after an upset ******* le win over Ilia Topuria at UFC Freedom 250, Arman Tsarukyan and Mauricio Ruffy will battle in a potential No. 1 contender bout at UFC 331 on Sept. 19 from Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
Although Tsarukyan (23-3 MMA, 10-2 UFC) is more well rounded and has the far better resume than Ruffy (14-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC), Alvarez sees Ruffy being a tougher challenge for the champion.
"I actually like Justin's chances a lot against Arman," Alvarez told MMA Junkie. "I think that style against Arman, that's an easier style. I think that's an easier style for Justin than against Ruffy. I think if Arman and Ruffy fight, I think Arman probably wins. But the style matchup that's worse for Gaethje is against Ruffy. Even though it's MMA math and Ruffy loses against Arman, I think Justin has an easier time with Arman."
Former UFC lightweight champion Alvarez broke down why he sees Ruffy presenting a tougher challenge for Gaethje.
#arman #gaethje #tsarukyan
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2 months ago
Picking a fight with a police officer is generally a poor decision, but doing it with one who once challenged for a UFC ***** le adds another layer of bad timing. A recently surfaced bodycam video shows Coral Springs Police Officer Marlon Moraes taking a man to the ground after the man verbally challenged him during a traffic stop.
Moraes, 38, is a former UFC bantamweight ***** le challenger and World Series of Fighting bantamweight champion who has worked as a South Florida police officer since 2024. According to MMA Junkie, the incident itself happened on March 27 but only recently began circulating widely online.
In the footage, the man can be heard telling Moraes, "You can't do sh*t," as he continues to confront him in a parking lot. Moraes remains standing in front of him until the man takes a step toward the officer, at which point Moraes trips him to the pavement.
Other officers quickly move in and ***** ist with placing the man in handcuffs. The circumstances that initially led to the traffic stop, including what the man was suspected of doing beforehand, were not detailed in the information released with the viral video.
Moraes competed professionally in mixed martial arts for years before entering law enforcement, earning a reputation as one of the top bantamweights of his era. He challenged Henry Cejudo for the vacant UFC bantamweight championship in 2019 after previously holding the World Series of Fighting ***** le.
#moraes #challenged
Moraes, 38, is a former UFC bantamweight ***** le challenger and World Series of Fighting bantamweight champion who has worked as a South Florida police officer since 2024. According to MMA Junkie, the incident itself happened on March 27 but only recently began circulating widely online.
In the footage, the man can be heard telling Moraes, "You can't do sh*t," as he continues to confront him in a parking lot. Moraes remains standing in front of him until the man takes a step toward the officer, at which point Moraes trips him to the pavement.
Other officers quickly move in and ***** ist with placing the man in handcuffs. The circumstances that initially led to the traffic stop, including what the man was suspected of doing beforehand, were not detailed in the information released with the viral video.
Moraes competed professionally in mixed martial arts for years before entering law enforcement, earning a reputation as one of the top bantamweights of his era. He challenged Henry Cejudo for the vacant UFC bantamweight championship in 2019 after previously holding the World Series of Fighting ***** le.
#moraes #challenged
2 months ago
ChrisWeidman is reportedly set for his commentary debut.
The former Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight ******* leholder looksset to make his commentary debut on Week 5 of Dana White's Contender Series Season 10.
Since he retired from mixed martial arts, Weidman has workedextensively as a desk ******* yst for UFC events. He's been a fixtureon pre-fight weigh-in shows and his profile further grew with thepopularity of Paramount's "Deep Waters" podcast, where he discussescombat sports news alongside DustinPoirier, JorgeMasvidal and DinThomas.
According to MMA Junkie, Weidman will join Laura Sankoand play-by-play announcer Dan ******* ie in the three-person booth forthe five-fight card at Meta Apex in Las Vegas on Sept. 8.
Weidman, 42, last competed in December 2024, suffering asecond-round TKO loss to Eryk Anders.The UFC Hall of Famer finished his MMA career with a 16-8 record,going 12-8 in the UFC. He famously ended AndersonSilva's historic 16-fight win streak in the UFC, a record thatwas recently broken by welterweight champ IslamMakhachev.
#play #record #chrisweidman #fighting
The former Ultimate Fighting Championship middleweight ******* leholder looksset to make his commentary debut on Week 5 of Dana White's Contender Series Season 10.
Since he retired from mixed martial arts, Weidman has workedextensively as a desk ******* yst for UFC events. He's been a fixtureon pre-fight weigh-in shows and his profile further grew with thepopularity of Paramount's "Deep Waters" podcast, where he discussescombat sports news alongside DustinPoirier, JorgeMasvidal and DinThomas.
According to MMA Junkie, Weidman will join Laura Sankoand play-by-play announcer Dan ******* ie in the three-person booth forthe five-fight card at Meta Apex in Las Vegas on Sept. 8.
Weidman, 42, last competed in December 2024, suffering asecond-round TKO loss to Eryk Anders.The UFC Hall of Famer finished his MMA career with a 16-8 record,going 12-8 in the UFC. He famously ended AndersonSilva's historic 16-fight win streak in the UFC, a record thatwas recently broken by welterweight champ IslamMakhachev.
#play #record #chrisweidman #fighting
2 months ago
Colby Covington may not be all done in MMA.
Despite announcing his retirement in May, the former UFC **** le challenger is still leaving the door open for another go in the octagon. Covington revealed to MMA Junkie that the main reason he retired was so he could aggressively pursue his wrestling career in Real American Freestyle – something he couldn't do as an active UFC fighter.
Covington is 4-0 under RAF and recently claimed the inaugural RAF Cruiserweight Crossover Championship with a win over top UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan.
"I'm technically retired, technically, but that was just the red proverbial tape I needed to get by so I could get the biggest matchups in RAF," Covington told MMA Junkie. "Everybody knows my first love and passion was always wrestling. My dad got me into wrestling as a kid; it was a family business. He wrestled his whole life. His family, his dad wrestled, so I was just following in the lineage of the generations, following the family tree in the wrestling business. It was always my first true love and passion."
Covington's retirement from MMA might've surprised some, as he was looking to fight at the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House in June. But with him not getting a spot on the card and not seeing interesting matchups outside of fighting at the White House, Covington just thought it would make more sense to focus on RAF, where he's also an investor.
#covington #House
Despite announcing his retirement in May, the former UFC **** le challenger is still leaving the door open for another go in the octagon. Covington revealed to MMA Junkie that the main reason he retired was so he could aggressively pursue his wrestling career in Real American Freestyle – something he couldn't do as an active UFC fighter.
Covington is 4-0 under RAF and recently claimed the inaugural RAF Cruiserweight Crossover Championship with a win over top UFC lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan.
"I'm technically retired, technically, but that was just the red proverbial tape I needed to get by so I could get the biggest matchups in RAF," Covington told MMA Junkie. "Everybody knows my first love and passion was always wrestling. My dad got me into wrestling as a kid; it was a family business. He wrestled his whole life. His family, his dad wrestled, so I was just following in the lineage of the generations, following the family tree in the wrestling business. It was always my first true love and passion."
Covington's retirement from MMA might've surprised some, as he was looking to fight at the UFC Freedom 250 event at the White House in June. But with him not getting a spot on the card and not seeing interesting matchups outside of fighting at the White House, Covington just thought it would make more sense to focus on RAF, where he's also an investor.
#covington #House
2 months ago
Rei Tsuruya hopes he's finally done enough to earn a crack at an opponent with a number next to their name.
At UFC Fight Night 286 in Shanghai, Tsuruya (12-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC) showed why he was heavily favored as he quickly drowned and tapped opponent Kevin Borjas (11-6 MMA, 2-5 UFC), winning the bout in 4:14 by rear-naked choke.
"I am simply happy, with my performance and the outcome," Tsuruya recently told MMA Junkie through a translator. "Two straight finishes in the first round, it really gives me confidence moving forward in my career with the UFC. For now, I am happy, and back to work. ... I was confident that I could dominate on the ground. My body reacted on its own and was making that takedown."
Tsuruya, 24, is viewed by many experts as one of the flyweight division's most promising prospects, particularly given his age and ability to finish fights. His stock has risen even further, as the only man to defeat him, Joshua Van, now hold UFC flyweight gold.
"I believe I am capable of being at the top of the division," Tsuruya said. "It's also a lot about luck, timing and the matchups you get, but I'm doing everything I can to develop my skills and be ready for whatever is next."
#opponent #next
At UFC Fight Night 286 in Shanghai, Tsuruya (12-1 MMA, 3-1 UFC) showed why he was heavily favored as he quickly drowned and tapped opponent Kevin Borjas (11-6 MMA, 2-5 UFC), winning the bout in 4:14 by rear-naked choke.
"I am simply happy, with my performance and the outcome," Tsuruya recently told MMA Junkie through a translator. "Two straight finishes in the first round, it really gives me confidence moving forward in my career with the UFC. For now, I am happy, and back to work. ... I was confident that I could dominate on the ground. My body reacted on its own and was making that takedown."
Tsuruya, 24, is viewed by many experts as one of the flyweight division's most promising prospects, particularly given his age and ability to finish fights. His stock has risen even further, as the only man to defeat him, Joshua Van, now hold UFC flyweight gold.
"I believe I am capable of being at the top of the division," Tsuruya said. "It's also a lot about luck, timing and the matchups you get, but I'm doing everything I can to develop my skills and be ready for whatever is next."
#opponent #next
2 months ago
UFC Fight Night 287 ceremonial weigh-ins are in the books, and the fighters came face-to-face one final time before Saturday's event.
The weigh-ins took place at Accor Arena in Paris, which hosts the card (Paramount+).
UFC Fight Night 287 is built around a five-round lightweight bout bout between Dan Hooker (24-14 MMA, 14-10 UFC) and promotional newcomer Salahdine Parnasse (23-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
Check out the video above to see highlights from Friday's ceremonial weigh-in staredowns, including all 14 scheduled bouts at UFC Fight Night 287.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: UFC Fight Night 287 full card faceoffs with Hooker vs. Parnasse
#accor
The weigh-ins took place at Accor Arena in Paris, which hosts the card (Paramount+).
UFC Fight Night 287 is built around a five-round lightweight bout bout between Dan Hooker (24-14 MMA, 14-10 UFC) and promotional newcomer Salahdine Parnasse (23-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC).
Check out the video above to see highlights from Friday's ceremonial weigh-in staredowns, including all 14 scheduled bouts at UFC Fight Night 287.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: UFC Fight Night 287 full card faceoffs with Hooker vs. Parnasse
#accor
2 months ago
The hours are quickly winding down to UFC Fight Night 287 which marks the promotion's fourth-annual stop in Paris.
It will be a big night in France, with local favorite and former KSW champion Salahdine Parnasse (23-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC) set to make his octagon debut in the main event when he tests his skills against the self-proclaimed "gatekeeper to the top 10" at lightweight in Dan Hooker (24-14 MMA, 14-10 UFC).
The critical five-round showdown at 155 pounds is grabbing most of the attention, but there's plenty more going on during Saturday's card at Accor Arena (Paramount+), particularly the potential UFC finale of Michael Page (25-3 MMA, 4-1 UFC), who fights the last bout of his contract in a middleweight featured contest against Nursulton Ruziboev (37-9-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC).
The help prepare for the card, MMA Junkie reporters Mike Bohn and Farah Hannoun will preview the top storylines, angles and more before UFC Fight Night 287.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: UFC Paris live preview show with Farah Hannoun, Mike Bohn
#night #hannoun #preview
It will be a big night in France, with local favorite and former KSW champion Salahdine Parnasse (23-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC) set to make his octagon debut in the main event when he tests his skills against the self-proclaimed "gatekeeper to the top 10" at lightweight in Dan Hooker (24-14 MMA, 14-10 UFC).
The critical five-round showdown at 155 pounds is grabbing most of the attention, but there's plenty more going on during Saturday's card at Accor Arena (Paramount+), particularly the potential UFC finale of Michael Page (25-3 MMA, 4-1 UFC), who fights the last bout of his contract in a middleweight featured contest against Nursulton Ruziboev (37-9-2 MMA, 5-1 UFC).
The help prepare for the card, MMA Junkie reporters Mike Bohn and Farah Hannoun will preview the top storylines, angles and more before UFC Fight Night 287.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Video: UFC Paris live preview show with Farah Hannoun, Mike Bohn
#night #hannoun #preview
2 months ago
LAS VEGAS – Silvestre Sanchez had the opportunity to show off his complete game on Dana White's Contender Series, but a UFC contract may have not come his way without a late finish.
Sanchez (10-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) earned a UFC contract by finishing Liam McCracken in the third round. A vicious left hook floored McCracken (8-2), making his entry into the promotion a sure thing. Without that punctuation mark in the closing round, UFC CEO Dana White said he may not have awarded a contract, despite Sanchez showing off stellar skills everywhere the fight went.
Luckily, the Mexico-born lightweight got the job done and will now have the opportunity to show more of what he can do under the bright lights of the UFC, and he hopes it means more fighters from his country will have an opportunity in the future.
"That was always a goal, to be here in the UFC since I started in mixed martial arts," Sanchez told MMA Junkie and other reporters through an interpreter during a post-fight news conference. "It's a dream come true, but also the start of hard work – and not just for myself, but also for Nayarit, because this opens the door for all the talent that's there. Maybe I've opened the door for more people from there to make a splash as well.
"... I think the UFC PI in Mexico is one of the most important hotbeds of talent in the world right now. The work that they're doing there is amazing because the level of sparring that I've had, the people on my team, the people that have worked with me, they've given me a tough challenge. You know if someone comes through Contender Series into the UFC, coming from the PI in Mexico City, you know it's someone who's ready for wars."
#people #mccracken
Sanchez (10-1 MMA, 0-0 UFC) earned a UFC contract by finishing Liam McCracken in the third round. A vicious left hook floored McCracken (8-2), making his entry into the promotion a sure thing. Without that punctuation mark in the closing round, UFC CEO Dana White said he may not have awarded a contract, despite Sanchez showing off stellar skills everywhere the fight went.
Luckily, the Mexico-born lightweight got the job done and will now have the opportunity to show more of what he can do under the bright lights of the UFC, and he hopes it means more fighters from his country will have an opportunity in the future.
"That was always a goal, to be here in the UFC since I started in mixed martial arts," Sanchez told MMA Junkie and other reporters through an interpreter during a post-fight news conference. "It's a dream come true, but also the start of hard work – and not just for myself, but also for Nayarit, because this opens the door for all the talent that's there. Maybe I've opened the door for more people from there to make a splash as well.
"... I think the UFC PI in Mexico is one of the most important hotbeds of talent in the world right now. The work that they're doing there is amazing because the level of sparring that I've had, the people on my team, the people that have worked with me, they've given me a tough challenge. You know if someone comes through Contender Series into the UFC, coming from the PI in Mexico City, you know it's someone who's ready for wars."
#people #mccracken
2 months ago
Fares Ziam will have Trevor Wittman in his corner at UFC Fight Night 287.Ziam (18-5 MMA, 8-3 UFC) takes on Axel Sola (12-1-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC) in Saturday's lightweight co-main event at Accor Arena in Paris.
Ziam has worked with Wittman before, and even served as a key training partner for UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje's UFC 324 fight against Paddy Pimblett. But now Ziam is looking to make a permanent move onto Wittman's team.
"My plan is to move with my family to the U.S. to be in Denver," Ziam told MMA Junkie. "Honestly, like I say, two to three years in Denver and forget, but yes, for me it's important to evolve in this game, to be focused. Before, I didn't have any head coach. I had a team around me, but at this level, we need a head coach, a guy who thinks for you, a guy who works well for you, and Trevor is the best for me."
Ziam saw his six-fight winning streak snapped by Tom Nolan in June at UFC Fight Night 278. Not only was it his first setback in more than four years, he also lost his spot in the lightweight rankings.
"I don't underestimate anybody, but I was on a six-fight win streak," Ziam said. "It's true also, not a lot of hype on this fight, but a fight is a fight, so we need to go 100 percent on focus. In this fight, I lost my focus a little bit. I was too relaxed, but I think everyone knows I'm better than him. But that night, he won."
#fight #years
Ziam has worked with Wittman before, and even served as a key training partner for UFC lightweight champion Justin Gaethje's UFC 324 fight against Paddy Pimblett. But now Ziam is looking to make a permanent move onto Wittman's team.
"My plan is to move with my family to the U.S. to be in Denver," Ziam told MMA Junkie. "Honestly, like I say, two to three years in Denver and forget, but yes, for me it's important to evolve in this game, to be focused. Before, I didn't have any head coach. I had a team around me, but at this level, we need a head coach, a guy who thinks for you, a guy who works well for you, and Trevor is the best for me."
Ziam saw his six-fight winning streak snapped by Tom Nolan in June at UFC Fight Night 278. Not only was it his first setback in more than four years, he also lost his spot in the lightweight rankings.
"I don't underestimate anybody, but I was on a six-fight win streak," Ziam said. "It's true also, not a lot of hype on this fight, but a fight is a fight, so we need to go 100 percent on focus. In this fight, I lost my focus a little bit. I was too relaxed, but I think everyone knows I'm better than him. But that night, he won."
#fight #years
2 months ago
LAS VEGAS – Dana White is keeping his mouth shut and letting "Big Mouth" do the talking.
One week to the day after White cryptically dropped financial numbers for Dana White's Contender Series' all-time pay leader among fighters who never contended for a UFC ****** le, the UFC CEO was asked if he could confirm Holland that is indeed the man he previously referenced.
"I never said it was Kevin Holland that was the $11 million man, but Kevin Holland has done pretty well," White told reporters including MMA Junkie at a post-fight news conference at Meta APEX. "I love Kevin."
Smiling through much of his answer, White detailed his long-standing professional relationship with Holland.
"You know the whole history with me and Kevin," White said. "I didn't pick him. I said he had a big mouth and he should've focused on whatever. We were in matchmaking one day. I don't remember who fell out. It was Thiago (Santos' opponent). I said, 'Call Big Mouth and see if Big Mouth will take the fight.' We called him, he took the fight, and here we are with Kevin Holland."
#kevin #mouth #never #vegas
One week to the day after White cryptically dropped financial numbers for Dana White's Contender Series' all-time pay leader among fighters who never contended for a UFC ****** le, the UFC CEO was asked if he could confirm Holland that is indeed the man he previously referenced.
"I never said it was Kevin Holland that was the $11 million man, but Kevin Holland has done pretty well," White told reporters including MMA Junkie at a post-fight news conference at Meta APEX. "I love Kevin."
Smiling through much of his answer, White detailed his long-standing professional relationship with Holland.
"You know the whole history with me and Kevin," White said. "I didn't pick him. I said he had a big mouth and he should've focused on whatever. We were in matchmaking one day. I don't remember who fell out. It was Thiago (Santos' opponent). I said, 'Call Big Mouth and see if Big Mouth will take the fight.' We called him, he took the fight, and here we are with Kevin Holland."
#kevin #mouth #never #vegas
2 months ago
With another action-packed month of MMA in the books, MMA Junkie looks at the best fights from August 2026: Here are the five nominees, listed in chronological order, and winner of MMA Junkie's Fight of the Month award for August.
At the bottom of the post, let us know if we got it right by voting on your choice.
Steven Asplund got back in the win column against Guilherme Pat in an action-packed heavyweight scrap.
Asplund (8-2 MMA, 2-1 UFC) and Pat (6-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) combined for three knockdowns and over 100 significant strikes landed over the course of 15 minutes, and ultimately it resulted in Asplund getting his hand raised by unanimous decision.
41-year-old Diego Ferreira put on one of the best performances of his career when he outworked Billy Quarantillo in a 15-minute co-main event slugfest.
#action #packed
At the bottom of the post, let us know if we got it right by voting on your choice.
Steven Asplund got back in the win column against Guilherme Pat in an action-packed heavyweight scrap.
Asplund (8-2 MMA, 2-1 UFC) and Pat (6-2 MMA, 1-2 UFC) combined for three knockdowns and over 100 significant strikes landed over the course of 15 minutes, and ultimately it resulted in Asplund getting his hand raised by unanimous decision.
41-year-old Diego Ferreira put on one of the best performances of his career when he outworked Billy Quarantillo in a 15-minute co-main event slugfest.
#action #packed
2 months ago
Monday's edition of MMA Junkie Radio with "Gorgeous" George and "Goze" is here.
On Episode 3,699, los hermanos Garcia recap one wild weekend of combat sports action – UFC Shanghai and Song Yadong's stunning upset, BKFC's fun show at Fenway Park, Duel Arena 1 ugliness and Mike Perry's week to forget, as well as BKB 58 in Miami. Tune in!
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: MMA Junkie Radio #3699 : Wild weekend recap of UFC Shanghai, BKFC at Fenway, more
#junkie #fenway #george
On Episode 3,699, los hermanos Garcia recap one wild weekend of combat sports action – UFC Shanghai and Song Yadong's stunning upset, BKFC's fun show at Fenway Park, Duel Arena 1 ugliness and Mike Perry's week to forget, as well as BKB 58 in Miami. Tune in!
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: MMA Junkie Radio #3699 : Wild weekend recap of UFC Shanghai, BKFC at Fenway, more
#junkie #fenway #george
2 months ago
Christine Ferea wants Cris Cyborg in BKFC – and it sounds like David Feldman does as well.
With her BKFC 92 win at Fenway Park on Saturday, Ferea moved to 12-1 in bareknuckle boxing – and immediately called for a heightened challenge in the free agent and one of the best to ever do it.
The callout got a response from Cyborg, who said she's never retired, regardless of how PFL framed her Aug. 22 win over Ketlen Vieira.
It also attracted the attention of Conor McGregor, according to Feldman. The two shared their enthusiasm in trying to make it happen.
"I wasn't but I think it's something we definitely can do," Feldman told MMA Junkie on Monday. "I think it's something we can float out there. It's funny because Conor messaged me early in the morning on Sunday and he was like, 'Who'd she call out? Cris, Cris, Cris Cyborg? Oh, that's a great fight. Let's do that one, Dave. Let's do that.' He was excited about it and I'm excited about it.
#cyborg #bkfc #something #excited
With her BKFC 92 win at Fenway Park on Saturday, Ferea moved to 12-1 in bareknuckle boxing – and immediately called for a heightened challenge in the free agent and one of the best to ever do it.
The callout got a response from Cyborg, who said she's never retired, regardless of how PFL framed her Aug. 22 win over Ketlen Vieira.
It also attracted the attention of Conor McGregor, according to Feldman. The two shared their enthusiasm in trying to make it happen.
"I wasn't but I think it's something we definitely can do," Feldman told MMA Junkie on Monday. "I think it's something we can float out there. It's funny because Conor messaged me early in the morning on Sunday and he was like, 'Who'd she call out? Cris, Cris, Cris Cyborg? Oh, that's a great fight. Let's do that one, Dave. Let's do that.' He was excited about it and I'm excited about it.
#cyborg #bkfc #something #excited
2 months ago
We want your predictions for UFC Fight Night 285. Our staff picks feature includes the consensus picks from MMA Junkie readers. Simply cast your vote for each bout below, and we'll use the official tallies that are registered by Friday at noon ET (9 a.m. PT).
Those reader consensus picks will be part of the main card staff predictions we release ahead of UFC Paris (Paramount+), which takes place Saturday at Paris Oriental Sports Center in China.
Make your picks below.
Records: Benouaich (7-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC), Montenegro (6-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC)
Division: Strawweight
#picks
Those reader consensus picks will be part of the main card staff predictions we release ahead of UFC Paris (Paramount+), which takes place Saturday at Paris Oriental Sports Center in China.
Make your picks below.
Records: Benouaich (7-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC), Montenegro (6-2 MMA, 0-0 UFC)
Division: Strawweight
#picks
2 months ago
Liu Ce and Levi Rodrigues Jr. meet on the UFC Fight Night 286 main card on Saturday at Shanghai Oriental Sports Center in Shanghai, China. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie ******* yst Dan Tom.
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 93-50-1
Ce (3-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) is making his UFC debut, while Rodrigues (5-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) will enter UFC Shanghai roughly two months removed from being finished in his UFC debut this past June.
Despite having a slew of lighter-weight action fights on the prelims, the UFC matchmakers still felt necessary to fulfill their fetish of force-feeding us lower-level big guys on Fight Night main cards.
#rodrigues #cards #debut #saturday
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 93-50-1
Ce (3-0 MMA, 0-0 UFC) is making his UFC debut, while Rodrigues (5-1 MMA, 0-1 UFC) will enter UFC Shanghai roughly two months removed from being finished in his UFC debut this past June.
Despite having a slew of lighter-weight action fights on the prelims, the UFC matchmakers still felt necessary to fulfill their fetish of force-feeding us lower-level big guys on Fight Night main cards.
#rodrigues #cards #debut #saturday
2 months ago
Aori Qileng and Kai Asakura meet on the UFC Fight Night 286 main card on Saturday at Shanghai Oriental Sports Center in Shanghai, China. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie **** yst Dan Tom.
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 93-50-1
Qileng (26-13 MMA, 4-5 UFC) will enter UFC Fight Night 286 having lost two of his past three bouts, including most recently a second-round TKO to Cody Haddon in May.
After losing his first two UFC bouts, including a flyweight **** le fight in his debut, Asakura (22-6 MMA, 1-2 UFC) earned a Performance of the Night bonus in his last promotional appearance after knocking out Cameron Smotherman in the first round of their bantamweight bout in May.
#fight #including
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 93-50-1
Qileng (26-13 MMA, 4-5 UFC) will enter UFC Fight Night 286 having lost two of his past three bouts, including most recently a second-round TKO to Cody Haddon in May.
After losing his first two UFC bouts, including a flyweight **** le fight in his debut, Asakura (22-6 MMA, 1-2 UFC) earned a Performance of the Night bonus in his last promotional appearance after knocking out Cameron Smotherman in the first round of their bantamweight bout in May.
#fight #including
2 months ago
Yan Xiaonan and Denise Gomes meet on the UFC Fight Night 286 main card on Saturday at Shanghai Oriental Sports Center in Shanghai, China. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie ***** yst Dan Tom.
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 93-50-1
Xiaonan (19-5 MMA, 9-4 UFC) is making her first octagon appearance in 16 months, coming off a loss to Virna Jandiroba in April 2025. Xiaonan has lost two of her past three fights, including her ***** le opportunity vs. then-champ Zhang Weili in April 2024.
Gomes (12-3 MMA, 6-2 UFC) can secure the biggest win of her career if successful vs. Xiaonan. Gomes will enter UFC Fight Night 286 on a four-fight winning streak, having most recently defeated Tecia Pennington by unanimous decision last November.
#last #main
Last event's results: 4-2
UFC main cards, 2026: 93-50-1
Xiaonan (19-5 MMA, 9-4 UFC) is making her first octagon appearance in 16 months, coming off a loss to Virna Jandiroba in April 2025. Xiaonan has lost two of her past three fights, including her ***** le opportunity vs. then-champ Zhang Weili in April 2024.
Gomes (12-3 MMA, 6-2 UFC) can secure the biggest win of her career if successful vs. Xiaonan. Gomes will enter UFC Fight Night 286 on a four-fight winning streak, having most recently defeated Tecia Pennington by unanimous decision last November.
#last #main
2 months ago
Umar Nurmagomedov thinks his brother, Usman Nurmagomedov, can compete with the UFC's best.
Usman (22-0), who became a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month, could be UFC bound if he opts not to re-sign with PFL. His older brother Umar raved about his work ethic, and thinks he's ready for the elite of the UFC's lightweight division – including champion Justin Gaethje.
"He's an amazing fighter, and I'm a huge fan of his," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie of Usman. "I like how he spars, how he works, how he does everything as a professional. And even in the cage, he shows he's a high-level fighter. I think he can be competitive with anybody in the world.
"Sometimes people think in other promotions, (they're) bad fighters, but it's not like that. For example, Shabliy is one of the toughest guys, Alexandr Shabliy. Even Arman (Tsarukyan) knows that because he sparred with him a lot. He knows how he's tough, and I think Usman can compete with anybody in the world. Gaethje, Ilia (Topuria), Arman, (Mauricio) Ruffy, anybody."
Their teammate, UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, has openly said he wants to see Usman in the UFC. Nurmagomedov on the other hand, wasn't as direct with his opinion.
#arman
Usman (22-0), who became a free agent after knocking out Archie Colgan at PFL New York last month, could be UFC bound if he opts not to re-sign with PFL. His older brother Umar raved about his work ethic, and thinks he's ready for the elite of the UFC's lightweight division – including champion Justin Gaethje.
"He's an amazing fighter, and I'm a huge fan of his," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie of Usman. "I like how he spars, how he works, how he does everything as a professional. And even in the cage, he shows he's a high-level fighter. I think he can be competitive with anybody in the world.
"Sometimes people think in other promotions, (they're) bad fighters, but it's not like that. For example, Shabliy is one of the toughest guys, Alexandr Shabliy. Even Arman (Tsarukyan) knows that because he sparred with him a lot. He knows how he's tough, and I think Usman can compete with anybody in the world. Gaethje, Ilia (Topuria), Arman, (Mauricio) Ruffy, anybody."
Their teammate, UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev, has openly said he wants to see Usman in the UFC. Nurmagomedov on the other hand, wasn't as direct with his opinion.
#arman
