7 hours ago
Despite their troubled relationship, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov have both established a lasting bond with soccer superstar Cristiano Ronaldo over their years in the spotlight.
Ronaldo is second to none among the world's most famous people, capitalizing on his notoriety beyond the sport to amass a staggering 1+ billion followers across all social media accounts. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has shown an interest in mixed martial arts in his time away from the field, often finding himself at UFC showcases when his busy schedules allow. Because of this, he has been able to connect with many notable figures in the combat sports world, most significantly McGregor and Khabib.
The Portuguese phenom has not slowed down at the grand age of 41, pushing to further his record as soccer's all-time leading goalscorer. Less than 30 goals away from hitting 1000, Ronaldo is on the verge of unrivaled greatness, though he is also closing in on a personal milestone arguably more important than his career achievements.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-term girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, have decided on a wedding date after eight years of dating. The wedding is set to be trending among the biggest in history, and the guest list is full of familiar faces around the globe.
For MMA fans, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov will be front and center should they accept the reported invitation. If the UFC stars put their feud behind them, they will be in attendance alongside famous musicians Drake, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez, as well as personalities like IShowSpeed and Piers Morgan, who are all rumored to be present.
#khabib
Ronaldo is second to none among the world's most famous people, capitalizing on his notoriety beyond the sport to amass a staggering 1+ billion followers across all social media accounts. The former Real Madrid and Manchester United forward has shown an interest in mixed martial arts in his time away from the field, often finding himself at UFC showcases when his busy schedules allow. Because of this, he has been able to connect with many notable figures in the combat sports world, most significantly McGregor and Khabib.
The Portuguese phenom has not slowed down at the grand age of 41, pushing to further his record as soccer's all-time leading goalscorer. Less than 30 goals away from hitting 1000, Ronaldo is on the verge of unrivaled greatness, though he is also closing in on a personal milestone arguably more important than his career achievements.
Cristiano Ronaldo and his long-term girlfriend, Georgina Rodriguez, have decided on a wedding date after eight years of dating. The wedding is set to be trending among the biggest in history, and the guest list is full of familiar faces around the globe.
For MMA fans, Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov will be front and center should they accept the reported invitation. If the UFC stars put their feud behind them, they will be in attendance alongside famous musicians Drake, Rihanna, and Jennifer Lopez, as well as personalities like IShowSpeed and Piers Morgan, who are all rumored to be present.
#khabib
1 day ago
Fresh off the news of the merger with Most Valuable Promotions, Professional Fighters League continued its "Summer Series" runof events with a surge of momentum.
Two of the company's top superstars made their return aslightweight champion UsmanNurmagomedov put his ***** le on the line against undefeatedchallenger ArchieColgan, and DakotaDitcheva denied DeniseKielholtz following a year on the shelf.
Following a brutal and decisive first-round finish over Colgan,there are immediate questions on the future of Nurmagomedov and hisplace in the company, as he just fought out the last fight of hiscontract. Nurmagomedov made it a point to see how the PFL/MVPmerger would lead to a contract offer in terms of pay, and if theykeep him, there's a clear top contender in Shabliy. DefeatingAlfieDavis by unanimous decision last month, Shabliy discussed hisdesire for a ***** le fight and he could get a chance at revenge froma 2024 loss to Nurmagomedov.
Taking on Kielholtz in her first action in over a year, Ditchevadid not have her most outstanding performance, and it was clear shewas shaking off some rust. Ditcheva would control the pace anddistance, grabbing momentum early and never letting it go. Aftergetting the rust off, it's time for the most anticipated women'smatchup in the PFL to take place against last year's tournamentchampion in Carmouche. Getting a recent win over VivianeAraujo, these two women are on a collision course and thereshould be no more time wasted.
Magomedov's performance proved there is another Russian star on thepromotion's roster. Part of the Nurmagomedov team, Magomedov waselectric in his manhandling of AngelAlvarez, chopping down his legs with brutal kicks andeventually getting the TKO finish in the second round. He shouldnow face off against the 2025 PFL Lightweight tournament champion.Davis just suffered a loss to Shabliy back in June, but could getright back into the top of the division if he can stop the momentumof Magomedov. Davis has said that he felt he fought his best in hisloss against Nurmagomedov, who knows Magomedov well, and he couldserve as a great test to see just how quickly he can get himselfback to ***** le contention.
Dayron arguably went through the toughest test of his career and itwas also his closest fight, as he pulled off a razor-thin decisionover RaufeonStots. His opponent was thoroughly shocked at the decision, butit saw Dayron keep his undefeated record intact. Even with the win,Dayron would benefit from another veteran test, and he'd get justthat in Pettis. Recently, Pettis was scheduled to square offagainst LewisMcGrillen-Evans but had to withdraw due to injury, if Pettiscan get healthy sooner than later, he would serve as another greattest for Dayron.
#nurmagomedov #pettis
Two of the company's top superstars made their return aslightweight champion UsmanNurmagomedov put his ***** le on the line against undefeatedchallenger ArchieColgan, and DakotaDitcheva denied DeniseKielholtz following a year on the shelf.
Following a brutal and decisive first-round finish over Colgan,there are immediate questions on the future of Nurmagomedov and hisplace in the company, as he just fought out the last fight of hiscontract. Nurmagomedov made it a point to see how the PFL/MVPmerger would lead to a contract offer in terms of pay, and if theykeep him, there's a clear top contender in Shabliy. DefeatingAlfieDavis by unanimous decision last month, Shabliy discussed hisdesire for a ***** le fight and he could get a chance at revenge froma 2024 loss to Nurmagomedov.
Taking on Kielholtz in her first action in over a year, Ditchevadid not have her most outstanding performance, and it was clear shewas shaking off some rust. Ditcheva would control the pace anddistance, grabbing momentum early and never letting it go. Aftergetting the rust off, it's time for the most anticipated women'smatchup in the PFL to take place against last year's tournamentchampion in Carmouche. Getting a recent win over VivianeAraujo, these two women are on a collision course and thereshould be no more time wasted.
Magomedov's performance proved there is another Russian star on thepromotion's roster. Part of the Nurmagomedov team, Magomedov waselectric in his manhandling of AngelAlvarez, chopping down his legs with brutal kicks andeventually getting the TKO finish in the second round. He shouldnow face off against the 2025 PFL Lightweight tournament champion.Davis just suffered a loss to Shabliy back in June, but could getright back into the top of the division if he can stop the momentumof Magomedov. Davis has said that he felt he fought his best in hisloss against Nurmagomedov, who knows Magomedov well, and he couldserve as a great test to see just how quickly he can get himselfback to ***** le contention.
Dayron arguably went through the toughest test of his career and itwas also his closest fight, as he pulled off a razor-thin decisionover RaufeonStots. His opponent was thoroughly shocked at the decision, butit saw Dayron keep his undefeated record intact. Even with the win,Dayron would benefit from another veteran test, and he'd get justthat in Pettis. Recently, Pettis was scheduled to square offagainst LewisMcGrillen-Evans but had to withdraw due to injury, if Pettiscan get healthy sooner than later, he would serve as another greattest for Dayron.
#nurmagomedov #pettis
1 day ago
Professional Fighters League's return to UBS Arena in LongIsland, New York, was punctuated by a majestic performance in themain event.
The PFL New York headliner saw current 155-pound ***** leholderUsmanNurmagomedov (22-0, 1 NC; 4-0 PFL) defend his championshipagainst ArchieColgan (13-1, 2-1 PFL). After a feeling-out couple of minutesin the center of the cage, Nurmagomedov connected with a head kickon his opponent's temple before following up with a big left handthat dropped Colgan. Shortly after the American managed torecompose himself and get back to his feet, Nurmagomedov followedup with more uppercuts that sent "King" to his knees. Smellingblood, the Dagestani landed more punches before referee KeithPeterson waved it off at the 3:42 mark of Round 1. In hispost-fight interview, Nurmagomedov was noncommittal about hisfuture in the promotion, since Friday's fight was the last on hiscurrent contract.
In the co-main event, DakotaDitcheva (16-0, 11-0 PFL) made a successful return from ayear-long injury hiatus, taking on former BellatorMMA ***** le challenger DeniseKielholtz (9-6, 1-1 PFL). "Dangerous" showed no cage rust,combining clean, sharp striking with effective takedowns, puttingany concerns about the injured hand to rest. Ditcheva made the mostof her reach, attacking from range with front kicks to the head andmidsection, while Kielholtz answered with a few spinning attacksbut overall posed little threat. The pace slowed in the thirdframe, drawing scattered boos as Ditcheva went the distance for thethird time in her otherwise finish-heavy career. When the dustsettled, all three judges scored it 30-27 for Ditcheva.
In a 157-pound catchweight tilt, AmruMagomedov (10-0, 2-0 PFL) kept his record unblemished byovercoming AngelAlvarez (11-3, 1-1 PFL). Magomedov attacked with a variety ofstrikes out of the gate, but his kicks proved to be his most lethalweapon. After "Salsa King," who failed to make the contracted155-pound weight limit the day before, crumpled from the damage,Magomedov poured it on until referee Dan Miragliotta stepped in at 4:28 ofRound 2.
An elitemiddleweight clash headlines PFL Charlotte: Tune on Friday, Aug. 7at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.
The main card opener saw former Ares Fighting Championship205-pound kingpin MoustaphaDiakhate (6-0-1, 1-0 PFL) make a statement in his promotionaldebut, crushing last-minute replacement DarrylKing Walker (2-1, 0-1 PFL). "Black Black" hunted his opponentdown with strikes from the opening bell before taking the fight to the canvas and finishing "The Sacred Beast"from mount at 2:35 into the opening stanza.
In the featured fight on the preliminary card, LazaroDayron (11-0-1, 3-0-1 PFL) relied on his crisp striking andwell-timed takedowns to outpoint former interim Bellator MMA135-pound ***** leholder RaufeonStots (21-5, 1-3 PFL) at the end of a close contest, with twojudges scoring 29-28 in favor of "El Cazador" and one 29-28 for"Supa"; earlier, Sean Gauci(12-1, 2-0 PFL) dominated AllanB
The PFL New York headliner saw current 155-pound ***** leholderUsmanNurmagomedov (22-0, 1 NC; 4-0 PFL) defend his championshipagainst ArchieColgan (13-1, 2-1 PFL). After a feeling-out couple of minutesin the center of the cage, Nurmagomedov connected with a head kickon his opponent's temple before following up with a big left handthat dropped Colgan. Shortly after the American managed torecompose himself and get back to his feet, Nurmagomedov followedup with more uppercuts that sent "King" to his knees. Smellingblood, the Dagestani landed more punches before referee KeithPeterson waved it off at the 3:42 mark of Round 1. In hispost-fight interview, Nurmagomedov was noncommittal about hisfuture in the promotion, since Friday's fight was the last on hiscurrent contract.
In the co-main event, DakotaDitcheva (16-0, 11-0 PFL) made a successful return from ayear-long injury hiatus, taking on former BellatorMMA ***** le challenger DeniseKielholtz (9-6, 1-1 PFL). "Dangerous" showed no cage rust,combining clean, sharp striking with effective takedowns, puttingany concerns about the injured hand to rest. Ditcheva made the mostof her reach, attacking from range with front kicks to the head andmidsection, while Kielholtz answered with a few spinning attacksbut overall posed little threat. The pace slowed in the thirdframe, drawing scattered boos as Ditcheva went the distance for thethird time in her otherwise finish-heavy career. When the dustsettled, all three judges scored it 30-27 for Ditcheva.
In a 157-pound catchweight tilt, AmruMagomedov (10-0, 2-0 PFL) kept his record unblemished byovercoming AngelAlvarez (11-3, 1-1 PFL). Magomedov attacked with a variety ofstrikes out of the gate, but his kicks proved to be his most lethalweapon. After "Salsa King," who failed to make the contracted155-pound weight limit the day before, crumpled from the damage,Magomedov poured it on until referee Dan Miragliotta stepped in at 4:28 ofRound 2.
An elitemiddleweight clash headlines PFL Charlotte: Tune on Friday, Aug. 7at 10 p.m. ET on ESPN.
The main card opener saw former Ares Fighting Championship205-pound kingpin MoustaphaDiakhate (6-0-1, 1-0 PFL) make a statement in his promotionaldebut, crushing last-minute replacement DarrylKing Walker (2-1, 0-1 PFL). "Black Black" hunted his opponentdown with strikes from the opening bell before taking the fight to the canvas and finishing "The Sacred Beast"from mount at 2:35 into the opening stanza.
In the featured fight on the preliminary card, LazaroDayron (11-0-1, 3-0-1 PFL) relied on his crisp striking andwell-timed takedowns to outpoint former interim Bellator MMA135-pound ***** leholder RaufeonStots (21-5, 1-3 PFL) at the end of a close contest, with twojudges scoring 29-28 in favor of "El Cazador" and one 29-28 for"Supa"; earlier, Sean Gauci(12-1, 2-0 PFL) dominated AllanB
1 day ago
Usman Nurmagomedov continued his incredible undefeated run Friday at PFL New York with another defense of his lightweight **** le, this time against Archie Colgan.
Colgan (13-1) came into the fight with a perfect record and all the confidence, but Nurmagomedov (22-0) took that away from him with a first-round knockout victory in the event headliner at UBS Arena on Long Island.
With the win, Nurmagomedov completed the final fight of his PFL contract and will become one of the most coveted fighters in the sport. He resisted talking about the situation, but the door could potentially be open for a long-discussed moved to the UFC's 155-pound weight class.
Check below for the top social media reactions to Nurmagomedov's **** le defense vs. Colgan at PFL New York.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Fighters react to Usman Nurmagomedov's PFL **** le defense in final contract fight
#nurmagomedov #usman #york #long
Colgan (13-1) came into the fight with a perfect record and all the confidence, but Nurmagomedov (22-0) took that away from him with a first-round knockout victory in the event headliner at UBS Arena on Long Island.
With the win, Nurmagomedov completed the final fight of his PFL contract and will become one of the most coveted fighters in the sport. He resisted talking about the situation, but the door could potentially be open for a long-discussed moved to the UFC's 155-pound weight class.
Check below for the top social media reactions to Nurmagomedov's **** le defense vs. Colgan at PFL New York.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Fighters react to Usman Nurmagomedov's PFL **** le defense in final contract fight
#nurmagomedov #usman #york #long
1 day ago
Professional Fighters League (PFL) continues its Summer Series later TONIGHT (Fri., July 31, 2026) as PFL New York goes down from inside UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. Headlining the event will be a Lightweight ***** le fight as division kingpin, Usman Nurmagomedov, defends the strap against Archie Colgan.
Nurmagomedov (21-0) is looking to lock down his second-ever ***** le defense, with his first coming against Alfie Davis earlier this year, submitting him via triangle choke at PFL Dubai (see it again here). As for Colgan, he is undefeated (13-0) and is 2-0 under PFL's banner. Prior to that, Colgan had racked up a record of 7-0 under Bellator MMA's banner.
Many readers check in before, during and after the fights to share their thoughts on all of the action, as the main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on the ESPN App and ESPN2. Feel free to leave a comment (or several) about the bouts and chat with all the other Maniacs during the show — it's always a lot of fun!
In the co-main event, striking superstar, Dakota Ditcheva, returns after a rare year-long layoff in an effort to improve on her mint record of (15-0, 10-0 PFL), taking on long-time combat veteran, Denise Kielholtz, in a women's Flyweight (cough, squash) match. The two were set to throw down at PFL Dubai earlier this year, but the bout had to be rescheduled after Ditcheva withdrew with an injury (more details here).
155 lbs.: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Archie Colgan – Nurmagomedov wins via first-round knockout
125 lbs.: Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz -Ditcheva wins via unanimous decision – HIGHLIGHTS!
155 lbs.: Amru Magomedov vs. Angel Alvarez – Magomedov wins via second round TKO
205 lbs.: Moustapha Diakhate vs. Zacharia Nishimwe – Diakhate via first-round TKO
135 lbs.: Raufeon Stots vs. Lazaro Dayron – Dayron wins via split-decision
135 lbs.: Sean Gauci vs. Alan Begosso – Gauci wins via unanimous decision
170 lbs.: Jonathan Piersma vs. Omar El Dafrawy – Dafrawy wins via unanimous decision
125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Tatiana Postarnakova- Postarnakova wins via split-decision
155 lbs.: Chamy Delva vs. Levan Khabalaev – Khabalaev wins via first-round TKO
#decision
Nurmagomedov (21-0) is looking to lock down his second-ever ***** le defense, with his first coming against Alfie Davis earlier this year, submitting him via triangle choke at PFL Dubai (see it again here). As for Colgan, he is undefeated (13-0) and is 2-0 under PFL's banner. Prior to that, Colgan had racked up a record of 7-0 under Bellator MMA's banner.
Many readers check in before, during and after the fights to share their thoughts on all of the action, as the main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on the ESPN App and ESPN2. Feel free to leave a comment (or several) about the bouts and chat with all the other Maniacs during the show — it's always a lot of fun!
In the co-main event, striking superstar, Dakota Ditcheva, returns after a rare year-long layoff in an effort to improve on her mint record of (15-0, 10-0 PFL), taking on long-time combat veteran, Denise Kielholtz, in a women's Flyweight (cough, squash) match. The two were set to throw down at PFL Dubai earlier this year, but the bout had to be rescheduled after Ditcheva withdrew with an injury (more details here).
155 lbs.: Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Archie Colgan – Nurmagomedov wins via first-round knockout
125 lbs.: Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz -Ditcheva wins via unanimous decision – HIGHLIGHTS!
155 lbs.: Amru Magomedov vs. Angel Alvarez – Magomedov wins via second round TKO
205 lbs.: Moustapha Diakhate vs. Zacharia Nishimwe – Diakhate via first-round TKO
135 lbs.: Raufeon Stots vs. Lazaro Dayron – Dayron wins via split-decision
135 lbs.: Sean Gauci vs. Alan Begosso – Gauci wins via unanimous decision
170 lbs.: Jonathan Piersma vs. Omar El Dafrawy – Dafrawy wins via unanimous decision
125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Tatiana Postarnakova- Postarnakova wins via split-decision
155 lbs.: Chamy Delva vs. Levan Khabalaev – Khabalaev wins via first-round TKO
#decision
2 days ago
Uncrowned has PFL New York live results, round-by-round updates, highlights and start time for the Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Archie Colgan and Dakota Ditcheva vs. Denise Kielholtz fight card on Friday night at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York. In the main event, PFL lightweight champion Usman Nurmagomedov defends his 155-pound ****** le against undefeated American challenger Archie Colgan in a five-round showdown.
Nurmagomedov (21-0, 1 NC) is widely considered one the top talents in the world outside of the UFC. The younger brother of UFC contender Umar Nurmagomedov and cousin of former UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, Nurmagomedov is competing on the final fight of his PFL contract. He's a perfect 3-0 since joining the promotion following PFL's acquisition of Bellator in 2024, a run highlighted by two wins over Paul Hughes.
Colgan (13-0) is also an undefeated Bellator export. The Colorado native has won back-to-back decisions over Mansour Barnaoui and Jay Jay Wilson since transitioning to the PFL brand, the most recent of which came in October.
Top PFL star Dakota Ditcheva (15-0) makes his long-awaited return against Denise Kielholtz (9-5) in the night's three-round co-main event.
PFL New York starts at 4:30 p.m. ET with a five-fight preliminary card on ESPN+. The main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+.
#round #card #dakota
Nurmagomedov (21-0, 1 NC) is widely considered one the top talents in the world outside of the UFC. The younger brother of UFC contender Umar Nurmagomedov and cousin of former UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, Nurmagomedov is competing on the final fight of his PFL contract. He's a perfect 3-0 since joining the promotion following PFL's acquisition of Bellator in 2024, a run highlighted by two wins over Paul Hughes.
Colgan (13-0) is also an undefeated Bellator export. The Colorado native has won back-to-back decisions over Mansour Barnaoui and Jay Jay Wilson since transitioning to the PFL brand, the most recent of which came in October.
Top PFL star Dakota Ditcheva (15-0) makes his long-awaited return against Denise Kielholtz (9-5) in the night's three-round co-main event.
PFL New York starts at 4:30 p.m. ET with a five-fight preliminary card on ESPN+. The main card kicks off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+.
#round #card #dakota
2 days ago
UFC's upcoming trip to Shanghai will now see a fun featherweight matchup.
The event takes place Aug. 29 at Shanghai Indoor Stadium in Shanghai, China, and is headlined by an important bantamweight bout between Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong. The UFC has now added a matchup between Jack Jenkins and Sean Woodson. The promotion officially announced the matchup Thursday.
Jenkins (14-4 MMA, 4-2 UFC) has produced mixed results in recent outings, but comes into this pairing after a unanimous decision win over Ramon Taveras in September. The Dana White's Contender Series veteran native has four wins under the UFC banner, including a third-round finish of Herbert Burns at UFC 305.
The Australian draws a rangy Woodson (13-2-1 MMA, 7-2-1 UFC) who will look to rebound from a streak-breaking stoppage loss against Dan Ige at UFC 314. Prior to that setback, the Missouri-born DWCS signee won four straight. That run included wins over Dennis Buzukja, Charles Jourdain, Alex Caceres and Fernando Padilla.
With the addition, the UFC Shanghai lineup inlcudes:
#four
The event takes place Aug. 29 at Shanghai Indoor Stadium in Shanghai, China, and is headlined by an important bantamweight bout between Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong. The UFC has now added a matchup between Jack Jenkins and Sean Woodson. The promotion officially announced the matchup Thursday.
Jenkins (14-4 MMA, 4-2 UFC) has produced mixed results in recent outings, but comes into this pairing after a unanimous decision win over Ramon Taveras in September. The Dana White's Contender Series veteran native has four wins under the UFC banner, including a third-round finish of Herbert Burns at UFC 305.
The Australian draws a rangy Woodson (13-2-1 MMA, 7-2-1 UFC) who will look to rebound from a streak-breaking stoppage loss against Dan Ige at UFC 314. Prior to that setback, the Missouri-born DWCS signee won four straight. That run included wins over Dennis Buzukja, Charles Jourdain, Alex Caceres and Fernando Padilla.
With the addition, the UFC Shanghai lineup inlcudes:
#four
2 days ago
The official weigh ins for PFL New York took place earlier this morning ahead of tomorrow's "Usman vs. Colgan" fight card, which goes down Fri., July 31, 2026, inside UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York.
In the main event, undefeated Lightweight standouts Usman Nurmagomedov and Archie Colgan both successfully made the championship mark ahead of their 155-pound Professional Fighters League (PFL) ****** le fight.
Nurmagomedov (21-0) weighed in at 154.8 pounds, while "King" Colgan (13-0) also came in at 154.8 pounds, making the highly anticipated ****** le fight official.
In the co-main event, PFL Flyweight superstar Dakota Ditcheva finally returns to action after one year away when she collides with longtime Bellator veteran Denise Kielholtz.
Ditcheva, who is one of the biggest betting favorites in mixed martial arts (MMA) history this week, also made weight with no issues. "Dangerous" tipped the scale at 125.8 pounds, while Kielholtz came in well under the limit at 121.8 pounds.
#fight #kielholtz
In the main event, undefeated Lightweight standouts Usman Nurmagomedov and Archie Colgan both successfully made the championship mark ahead of their 155-pound Professional Fighters League (PFL) ****** le fight.
Nurmagomedov (21-0) weighed in at 154.8 pounds, while "King" Colgan (13-0) also came in at 154.8 pounds, making the highly anticipated ****** le fight official.
In the co-main event, PFL Flyweight superstar Dakota Ditcheva finally returns to action after one year away when she collides with longtime Bellator veteran Denise Kielholtz.
Ditcheva, who is one of the biggest betting favorites in mixed martial arts (MMA) history this week, also made weight with no issues. "Dangerous" tipped the scale at 125.8 pounds, while Kielholtz came in well under the limit at 121.8 pounds.
#fight #kielholtz
4 days ago
Javier Mendez doesn't see Islam Makhachev vs. Ian Machado Garry continuing the Dagestan vs. Ireland rivalry.
Welterweight champion Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) makes his first ***** le defense against Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) in the UFC 330 main event on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia (Paramount+).
Machado Garry has called his fight against Makhachev Ireland vs. Dagestan 2, referring to Conor McGregor's bad blood with Khabib Nurmagomedov. Things got so personal with McGregor and Nurmagomedov, that Nurmagomedov jumped McGregor's corner immediately after choking him out at UFC 229.
Mendez says you can't compare the two fights.
"There are zero similarities to Conor vs. Khabib," Mendez said in an interview with NewBettingSites. "Unless Ian starts disrespecting family and religion or country, but I don't see him doing that or Islam doing it either. It's a fight between them, and I feel like if they want to include me and Khabib that's fine. We are fair game, we are trainers and part of the team. They should leave everyone else alone though."
#garry #conor
Welterweight champion Makhachev (28-1 MMA, 17-1 UFC) makes his first ***** le defense against Machado Garry (17-1 MMA, 10-1 UFC) in the UFC 330 main event on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia (Paramount+).
Machado Garry has called his fight against Makhachev Ireland vs. Dagestan 2, referring to Conor McGregor's bad blood with Khabib Nurmagomedov. Things got so personal with McGregor and Nurmagomedov, that Nurmagomedov jumped McGregor's corner immediately after choking him out at UFC 229.
Mendez says you can't compare the two fights.
"There are zero similarities to Conor vs. Khabib," Mendez said in an interview with NewBettingSites. "Unless Ian starts disrespecting family and religion or country, but I don't see him doing that or Islam doing it either. It's a fight between them, and I feel like if they want to include me and Khabib that's fine. We are fair game, we are trainers and part of the team. They should leave everyone else alone though."
#garry #conor
4 days ago
The Professional Fighters League has finalized the lineup for itsJuly 31 event at UBS Arena in Long Island, New York, featuring an11-bout card headlined by a lightweight **** le fight.
PFL New York is headlined by UsmanNurmagomedov vs. ArchieColgan. The card also features several notable matchups acrossthe main and preliminary cards.
PFL New York will see undefeated champion Nurmagomedov (21-0)defend his lightweight crown against unbeaten contender Colgan(13-0) in the main event.
In the co-headliner, top-ranked women's flyweight DakotaDitcheva (15-0) returns after more than a year on the sidelinesagainst DeniseKielholtz (9-5) in a bout with significant **** le implicationsat 125 pounds.
The main card also includes a light heavyweight matchup betweenDovletdzhanYagshimuradov (26-8-1) and SimeonPowell (12-2), while unbeaten lightweight prospect AmruMagomedov (10-0) squares off against AngelAlvarez (11-2).
The preliminary card is topped by a bantamweight clash betweenRaufeonStots (21-4) and unbeaten LazaroDayron (10-0-1). Elsewhere, JonathanPiersma (12-3) faces Omar ElDafrawy (15-6) in a 175-pound catchweight contest, Sean Gauci(11-1) faces AllanBegosso (10-4-1) at bantamweight and unbeaten light heavyweightprospects MoustaphaDiakhate (5-0-1) and ZachariaNishimwe (4-0) are also set to collide.
A lightweighttitle fight headlines PFL NY: Tune on Friday, July 31 at 7 p.m. ETon ESPN.
Other scheduled matchups include a light heavyweight bout betweenundefeated KhabibNabiev (12-0) and JamelleJones (15-8), a women's flyweight contest featuring MontanaDe La Rosa (13-9-1) against unbeaten TatianaPostarnakova (7-0) and a lightweight matchup pitting Chamy Delva(7-1) against LevanKhabalaev (4-0).
The prelims begin at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on ESPN App, with the maincard airing at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ESPN.
#unbeaten #main
PFL New York is headlined by UsmanNurmagomedov vs. ArchieColgan. The card also features several notable matchups acrossthe main and preliminary cards.
PFL New York will see undefeated champion Nurmagomedov (21-0)defend his lightweight crown against unbeaten contender Colgan(13-0) in the main event.
In the co-headliner, top-ranked women's flyweight DakotaDitcheva (15-0) returns after more than a year on the sidelinesagainst DeniseKielholtz (9-5) in a bout with significant **** le implicationsat 125 pounds.
The main card also includes a light heavyweight matchup betweenDovletdzhanYagshimuradov (26-8-1) and SimeonPowell (12-2), while unbeaten lightweight prospect AmruMagomedov (10-0) squares off against AngelAlvarez (11-2).
The preliminary card is topped by a bantamweight clash betweenRaufeonStots (21-4) and unbeaten LazaroDayron (10-0-1). Elsewhere, JonathanPiersma (12-3) faces Omar ElDafrawy (15-6) in a 175-pound catchweight contest, Sean Gauci(11-1) faces AllanBegosso (10-4-1) at bantamweight and unbeaten light heavyweightprospects MoustaphaDiakhate (5-0-1) and ZachariaNishimwe (4-0) are also set to collide.
A lightweighttitle fight headlines PFL NY: Tune on Friday, July 31 at 7 p.m. ETon ESPN.
Other scheduled matchups include a light heavyweight bout betweenundefeated KhabibNabiev (12-0) and JamelleJones (15-8), a women's flyweight contest featuring MontanaDe La Rosa (13-9-1) against unbeaten TatianaPostarnakova (7-0) and a lightweight matchup pitting Chamy Delva(7-1) against LevanKhabalaev (4-0).
The prelims begin at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT on ESPN App, with the maincard airing at 7 p.m. ET/4 p.m. PT on ESPN.
#unbeaten #main
9 days ago
Image: Ben Duffy/Sherdog.com illustration
We at Sherdog provide regular, in-depth preview coverage for allmajor events, including our oft-praised preview column along withour "Sheehan Show" handling all sorts of related matters includingbetting. With those official sources for picks handled, we wouldlike to take the edge off here and get a bit lighter with ourbreakdowns.
The industry of sports betting is exploding before our very eyes,with billions of dollars pumping in since legalization stateside.Oftentimes, those driving the lines are right on the money withtheir openings, valuations and ****** yses. Occasionally they are wayoff, or otherwise merit some additional conversation. That is wherewe come in with this reinvigorated series of Prime Picks, where,stealing a line from game show host Sam Reich, we hold hands andjump into the abyss together for Saturday morning's Ultimate Fighting Championship's jaunt toAbu Dhabi. Try it out.
MagomedAnkalaev (-575)
MagomedZaynukov (-290)
MagomedTuchalov (-900)
We admit, we're getting away with a technicality here by notincluding MuhammadSaid in our same-name parlay. After all, Magomed is the Russiantransliteration of Muhammad. Also, good luck trying to search thename "Muhammad Said" without any additional qualifiers and stillgarner any information about the fighter of that namesake. All ofthese Magomeds are rightful favorites, and in the case of two ofthe more expected victors of Tuchalov and Ankalaev, moneyline betsare just not worth it.
Therefore, we pair these three gents together, all of whom haveclear paths to victory against foes who have displayed exploitableweaknesses. Some are giving BogdanGuskov a proverbial "puncher's chance" to win this fight,although he might have some surprise jiu-jitsu in his back pocket.Nevertheless, unless Ankalaev chooses to take things horizontal—heis not nearly as keen on doing this despite his reputation, onlydoing so in his first triumphant meeting against AlexPereira. Against "Poatan," he did attempt a clean dozen shots.While he did not land a single one, the mere threat of the takedownallowed him to get in on the stoic striker and do some work. A fewfaked shots against "Hitman," whose takedown defense has alreadycome into question despite his recent successes, would payimmediate dividends.
We get to the meat of the order. More specifically, the pork. JohnPork. "Wild Chanco" Zaynukov, who actually had his nickname onFight Finder as "John Pork" until specifically reaching out torequest that it be taken down. RobertWhittaker didn't have the same problem when Ben Fowlkes andChad Dundas first crowned him "Bobby Knuckles" in the always-great"Co-Main Event Podcast" and it stuck. Even though DamianRzepecki will hold a slight bit more experience and morestoppages on his ledger, he and Zaynukov stand at differentterraces in their respective careers.
To get signed through the promotion, the Dagestan native in thepipeline of the Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov School
We at Sherdog provide regular, in-depth preview coverage for allmajor events, including our oft-praised preview column along withour "Sheehan Show" handling all sorts of related matters includingbetting. With those official sources for picks handled, we wouldlike to take the edge off here and get a bit lighter with ourbreakdowns.
The industry of sports betting is exploding before our very eyes,with billions of dollars pumping in since legalization stateside.Oftentimes, those driving the lines are right on the money withtheir openings, valuations and ****** yses. Occasionally they are wayoff, or otherwise merit some additional conversation. That is wherewe come in with this reinvigorated series of Prime Picks, where,stealing a line from game show host Sam Reich, we hold hands andjump into the abyss together for Saturday morning's Ultimate Fighting Championship's jaunt toAbu Dhabi. Try it out.
MagomedAnkalaev (-575)
MagomedZaynukov (-290)
MagomedTuchalov (-900)
We admit, we're getting away with a technicality here by notincluding MuhammadSaid in our same-name parlay. After all, Magomed is the Russiantransliteration of Muhammad. Also, good luck trying to search thename "Muhammad Said" without any additional qualifiers and stillgarner any information about the fighter of that namesake. All ofthese Magomeds are rightful favorites, and in the case of two ofthe more expected victors of Tuchalov and Ankalaev, moneyline betsare just not worth it.
Therefore, we pair these three gents together, all of whom haveclear paths to victory against foes who have displayed exploitableweaknesses. Some are giving BogdanGuskov a proverbial "puncher's chance" to win this fight,although he might have some surprise jiu-jitsu in his back pocket.Nevertheless, unless Ankalaev chooses to take things horizontal—heis not nearly as keen on doing this despite his reputation, onlydoing so in his first triumphant meeting against AlexPereira. Against "Poatan," he did attempt a clean dozen shots.While he did not land a single one, the mere threat of the takedownallowed him to get in on the stoic striker and do some work. A fewfaked shots against "Hitman," whose takedown defense has alreadycome into question despite his recent successes, would payimmediate dividends.
We get to the meat of the order. More specifically, the pork. JohnPork. "Wild Chanco" Zaynukov, who actually had his nickname onFight Finder as "John Pork" until specifically reaching out torequest that it be taken down. RobertWhittaker didn't have the same problem when Ben Fowlkes andChad Dundas first crowned him "Bobby Knuckles" in the always-great"Co-Main Event Podcast" and it stuck. Even though DamianRzepecki will hold a slight bit more experience and morestoppages on his ledger, he and Zaynukov stand at differentterraces in their respective careers.
To get signed through the promotion, the Dagestan native in thepipeline of the Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov School
9 days ago
Javier Mendez detailed Islam Makhachev's preparation for his upcoming welterweight ***** le bout against Ian Machado Garry. The bout will headline UFC 330, marking Makhachev's first welterweight ***** le defense.
Mendez, Makhachev's longtime coach at AKA, believes his pupil has the correct strategy to defeat Machado Garry. The Dagestani, who is known for his grappling ability, can also hold his own on the feet, making him a well-rounded fighter. Although he does not have a training partner that can replicate the Irishman's fighting style, he benefits from training with Usman Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov, the current PFL lightweight champion, is also preparing for his fight at PFL New York. As a result, he and Makhachev can maximize their training sessions while preparing for their respective bouts.
"We don't have somebody [like Machado Garry] at our disposal that is that good. But, we do have who I happen to believe is the No.1 lightweight in the world, Usman, as a main sparring partner," Mendez exclusively told Heavy Sports via NewBettingSites.uk.
Javier Mendez also revealed how Usman Nurmagomedov has helped Islam Makhachev during his training camp. Mendez stressed the importance of Makhachev's timing, particularly when throwing strikes.
#training
Mendez, Makhachev's longtime coach at AKA, believes his pupil has the correct strategy to defeat Machado Garry. The Dagestani, who is known for his grappling ability, can also hold his own on the feet, making him a well-rounded fighter. Although he does not have a training partner that can replicate the Irishman's fighting style, he benefits from training with Usman Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov, the current PFL lightweight champion, is also preparing for his fight at PFL New York. As a result, he and Makhachev can maximize their training sessions while preparing for their respective bouts.
"We don't have somebody [like Machado Garry] at our disposal that is that good. But, we do have who I happen to believe is the No.1 lightweight in the world, Usman, as a main sparring partner," Mendez exclusively told Heavy Sports via NewBettingSites.uk.
Javier Mendez also revealed how Usman Nurmagomedov has helped Islam Makhachev during his training camp. Mendez stressed the importance of Makhachev's timing, particularly when throwing strikes.
#training
9 days ago
Javier Mendez detailed Islam Makhachev's preparation for his upcoming welterweight **** le bout against Ian Machado Garry. The bout will headline UFC 330, marking Makhachev's first welterweight **** le defense.
Mendez, Makhachev's longtime coach at AKA, believes his pupil has the correct strategy to defeat Machado Garry. The Dagestani, who is known for his grappling ability, can also hold his own on the feet, making him a well-rounded fighter. Although he does not have a training partner that can replicate the Irishman's fighting style, he benefits from training with Usman Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov, the current PFL lightweight champion, is also preparing for his fight at PFL New York. As a result, he and Makhachev can maximize their training sessions while preparing for their respective bouts.
"We don't have somebody [like Machado Garry] at our disposal that is that good. But, we do have who I happen to believe is the No.1 lightweight in the world, Usman, as a main sparring partner," Mendez exclusively told Heavy Sports via NewBettingSites.uk.
Javier Mendez also revealed how Usman Nurmagomedov has helped Islam Makhachev during his training camp. Mendez stressed the importance of Makhachev's timing, particularly when throwing strikes.
#welterweight
Mendez, Makhachev's longtime coach at AKA, believes his pupil has the correct strategy to defeat Machado Garry. The Dagestani, who is known for his grappling ability, can also hold his own on the feet, making him a well-rounded fighter. Although he does not have a training partner that can replicate the Irishman's fighting style, he benefits from training with Usman Nurmagomedov.
Nurmagomedov, the current PFL lightweight champion, is also preparing for his fight at PFL New York. As a result, he and Makhachev can maximize their training sessions while preparing for their respective bouts.
"We don't have somebody [like Machado Garry] at our disposal that is that good. But, we do have who I happen to believe is the No.1 lightweight in the world, Usman, as a main sparring partner," Mendez exclusively told Heavy Sports via NewBettingSites.uk.
Javier Mendez also revealed how Usman Nurmagomedov has helped Islam Makhachev during his training camp. Mendez stressed the importance of Makhachev's timing, particularly when throwing strikes.
#welterweight
9 days ago
If behind-the-scenes dirt on the skeletons in people's closets is your thing, get ready for Season 2 of VICE TV's "Dark Side of the Cage."
VICE Studios on Thursday announced a new seven-episode season of the show with a premiere set for Sept. 1 at 9 p.m. ET on VICE TV. The season premiere episode features UFC Hall of Famer Don Frye, "whose willingness to absorb brutality in the cage led to the fight of his life against pain and addiction."
Of particular interest to many, most likely, later in the season will be an episode featuring longtime fighter Phil Baroni, who remains in prison in Mexico on a charge of murder. A teaser video for the season shows a clip of a phone interview with Baroni and him saying his lawyers won't be happy he did the interview.
"From house-fire heroism to SWAT stand-offs to full-blown arena riots, season two of Dark Side of the Cage pulls back the curtain on MMA's most extreme highs and devastating lows," the official show pitch says. "'Dark Side of the Cage' cuts through the glamour and glory of the MMA spectacle to reveal the never-before-told stories behind the sport's most iconic competitors, told by the fighters themselves."
Other episodes, according to VICE TV, will feature ****** o Ortiz, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Chael Sonnen and Mark Coleman. Additionally, the season "will shed new light on one of the most heated feuds in UFC history: Conor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov."
#vice #dark #episode #show
VICE Studios on Thursday announced a new seven-episode season of the show with a premiere set for Sept. 1 at 9 p.m. ET on VICE TV. The season premiere episode features UFC Hall of Famer Don Frye, "whose willingness to absorb brutality in the cage led to the fight of his life against pain and addiction."
Of particular interest to many, most likely, later in the season will be an episode featuring longtime fighter Phil Baroni, who remains in prison in Mexico on a charge of murder. A teaser video for the season shows a clip of a phone interview with Baroni and him saying his lawyers won't be happy he did the interview.
"From house-fire heroism to SWAT stand-offs to full-blown arena riots, season two of Dark Side of the Cage pulls back the curtain on MMA's most extreme highs and devastating lows," the official show pitch says. "'Dark Side of the Cage' cuts through the glamour and glory of the MMA spectacle to reveal the never-before-told stories behind the sport's most iconic competitors, told by the fighters themselves."
Other episodes, according to VICE TV, will feature ****** o Ortiz, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Chael Sonnen and Mark Coleman. Additionally, the season "will shed new light on one of the most heated feuds in UFC history: Conor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov."
#vice #dark #episode #show
18 days ago
Ultimate Fighting Championship Hall of Famer KhabibNurmagomedov believes IslamMakhachev is in for a tricky outing against IanGarry.
Makhachev (28-1) is set to defend his welterweight **** le for thefirst time against Garry (17-1) in the main event of UFC330 on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.Makhachev's friend and mentor, Nurmagomedov, notes that his protégéhas never faced an opponent as tall as Garry.
Nurmagomedov admits that Garry's elusive style is a difficultpuzzle to crack. "The Eagle" further notes that Makhachev, nearing35, is six years older than Garry. According to the former unbeatenlightweight champion, the stylistic threat from Garry, combinedwith the age difference, makes it a difficult matchup forMakhachev.
"We've never faced an opponent this tall - 193 cm [6'4"],"Nurmagomedov said on the "Smol Talk" podcast. "We'll have to chasehim, close the distance, grab him, and take him down. It will be adifficult fight. And Islam is almost 35. The stylistic matchup andthe age together make this a difficult fight… I expect a hardfight, **** uming we don't get an early finish. Spending five roundswith this opponent won't be easy. The training camp will bedifficult too, first because we have to find someone who canimitate him."
American Kickboxing Academy founder and head coach of theDagestani team, Javier Mendez, recently revealed that Professional Fighters League champion UsmanNurmagomedov is helping Makhachev by mimicking Garry intraining.
Garry has racked up 10 UFC wins and suffered his lone professionalloss to ShavkatRakhmonov, who is sidelined due to an injury. Meanwhile,Makhachev is undefeated in 16 straight Octagon outings, includingsix **** le fights. The latter is tied with AndersonSilva for consecutive UFC wins, and a victory at UFC 330 willsee the Dagestani set a new record.
Makhachev (28-1) is set to defend his welterweight **** le for thefirst time against Garry (17-1) in the main event of UFC330 on Aug. 15 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia.Makhachev's friend and mentor, Nurmagomedov, notes that his protégéhas never faced an opponent as tall as Garry.
Nurmagomedov admits that Garry's elusive style is a difficultpuzzle to crack. "The Eagle" further notes that Makhachev, nearing35, is six years older than Garry. According to the former unbeatenlightweight champion, the stylistic threat from Garry, combinedwith the age difference, makes it a difficult matchup forMakhachev.
"We've never faced an opponent this tall - 193 cm [6'4"],"Nurmagomedov said on the "Smol Talk" podcast. "We'll have to chasehim, close the distance, grab him, and take him down. It will be adifficult fight. And Islam is almost 35. The stylistic matchup andthe age together make this a difficult fight… I expect a hardfight, **** uming we don't get an early finish. Spending five roundswith this opponent won't be easy. The training camp will bedifficult too, first because we have to find someone who canimitate him."
American Kickboxing Academy founder and head coach of theDagestani team, Javier Mendez, recently revealed that Professional Fighters League champion UsmanNurmagomedov is helping Makhachev by mimicking Garry intraining.
Garry has racked up 10 UFC wins and suffered his lone professionalloss to ShavkatRakhmonov, who is sidelined due to an injury. Meanwhile,Makhachev is undefeated in 16 straight Octagon outings, includingsix **** le fights. The latter is tied with AndersonSilva for consecutive UFC wins, and a victory at UFC 330 willsee the Dagestani set a new record.
21 days ago
Conor McGregor made his Ultimate Fighting Championship return atop an action-packed UFC 329 card that ended with a whimper. The welterweight main event saw “Notorious” take on Max Holloway in a rematch of their 2013 fight that never really got started. The finish-filled card also had important fights in the lightweight, bantamweight and flyweight divisions.
Here are the matches to make for the UFC 329 main card winners.
Holloway (28-9) finally got revenge on McGregor (22-7), but it wasn’t how he wanted to after McGregor suffered a knee injury. Regardless, “Blessed” is now 2-1 in his last three fights, with a deflating loss to Charles Oliveira sandwiched between wins over Dustin Poirier and McGregor. I’d like to see Holloway take on Pimblett next, as “The Baddie” submitted Benoit St. Denis with a Peruvian necktie. It was an impressive showing for the British fighter, who proved he deserves to be among the elite at 155 pounds. Both men are among the most entertaining at lightweight and it’d be a stellar action fight after Holloway’s disappointing showings against Oliveira and McGregor.
Bautista battled back from early adversity to take a decision win and get revenge against Cody Sandhagen, who beat him in 2019. The American is now 10-1 in his last 11 bouts inside the Octagon, with the lone defeat coming to Umar Nurmagomedov. While he called for a ******* le shot, that doesn’t seem likely with champion Petr Yan having major rematches against Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O'Malley as possible ******* le defenses. Instead, a fight against the underrated Barcelos would make sense. The Brazilian is on a five-fight win streak that includes victories over Ricky Simon, Payton Talbott and Cody Garbrandt. It’s a great stay-busy fight against a tough foe that will allow the log jam at the top of the division to figure itself out.
Royval capped off an impressive back-and-forth war with flyweight prospect Lone'er Kavanagh with a rare-naked choke. That snaps a two-fight winning streak for"Raw Dawg," who fell short to Manel Kape and Joshua Van in recent fights. Royval (18-9) called out Almabayev for his next Octagon appearance in a rare post-fight callout that makes total sense. It's a fresh fight and one that will give Almabayev (24-3) the chance to get the biggest win of his career. The Kazakhstani fighter is currently on a three-fight win streak, with wins over Charles Johnson and Alex Perez being particularly impressive. Whoever emerges victorious will be a solid contender in one of mixed martial arts' best divisions.
Here are the matches to make for the UFC 329 main card winners.
Holloway (28-9) finally got revenge on McGregor (22-7), but it wasn’t how he wanted to after McGregor suffered a knee injury. Regardless, “Blessed” is now 2-1 in his last three fights, with a deflating loss to Charles Oliveira sandwiched between wins over Dustin Poirier and McGregor. I’d like to see Holloway take on Pimblett next, as “The Baddie” submitted Benoit St. Denis with a Peruvian necktie. It was an impressive showing for the British fighter, who proved he deserves to be among the elite at 155 pounds. Both men are among the most entertaining at lightweight and it’d be a stellar action fight after Holloway’s disappointing showings against Oliveira and McGregor.
Bautista battled back from early adversity to take a decision win and get revenge against Cody Sandhagen, who beat him in 2019. The American is now 10-1 in his last 11 bouts inside the Octagon, with the lone defeat coming to Umar Nurmagomedov. While he called for a ******* le shot, that doesn’t seem likely with champion Petr Yan having major rematches against Merab Dvalishvili and Sean O'Malley as possible ******* le defenses. Instead, a fight against the underrated Barcelos would make sense. The Brazilian is on a five-fight win streak that includes victories over Ricky Simon, Payton Talbott and Cody Garbrandt. It’s a great stay-busy fight against a tough foe that will allow the log jam at the top of the division to figure itself out.
Royval capped off an impressive back-and-forth war with flyweight prospect Lone'er Kavanagh with a rare-naked choke. That snaps a two-fight winning streak for"Raw Dawg," who fell short to Manel Kape and Joshua Van in recent fights. Royval (18-9) called out Almabayev for his next Octagon appearance in a rare post-fight callout that makes total sense. It's a fresh fight and one that will give Almabayev (24-3) the chance to get the biggest win of his career. The Kazakhstani fighter is currently on a three-fight win streak, with wins over Charles Johnson and Alex Perez being particularly impressive. Whoever emerges victorious will be a solid contender in one of mixed martial arts' best divisions.
26 days ago
The Ultimate Fighting Championship's return to China is scheduledfor Aug. 29 at the Shanghai Indoor Stadium and a new flyweightmatchup has reportedly been added to the card.
KevinBorjas (11-5 MMA, 2-4 UFC) is set to face Rei Tsuruya(11-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC), per multiple reports. However, the UFC is yetto confirm the booking.
A flyweight matchup between KevinBorjas and Rei Tsuruyahas reportedly been added to UFC Fight Night 286's lineup.
Borjas, a Dana White's Contender Series signee, has struggled in the UFCso far, with a 2-4 record inside the Octagon. In the Peruvian'slast fight, he beat Andre Limaby unanimous decision after missing weight.
Meanwhile, Tsuruya earned his spot on the UFC roster via Road toUFC. The ******* anese 125-pounder made his promotional debut atUFC303, beating CarlosHernandez by decision, before losing to current championJoshuaVan. He then won his next bout against Luis Gurulevia a first-round rear-naked choke.
The Fight Night will be headlined by a pivotal bout in thebantamweight division, featuring former ******* le challenger UmarNurmagomedov against China's YadongSong.
KevinBorjas (11-5 MMA, 2-4 UFC) is set to face Rei Tsuruya(11-1 MMA, 2-1 UFC), per multiple reports. However, the UFC is yetto confirm the booking.
A flyweight matchup between KevinBorjas and Rei Tsuruyahas reportedly been added to UFC Fight Night 286's lineup.
Borjas, a Dana White's Contender Series signee, has struggled in the UFCso far, with a 2-4 record inside the Octagon. In the Peruvian'slast fight, he beat Andre Limaby unanimous decision after missing weight.
Meanwhile, Tsuruya earned his spot on the UFC roster via Road toUFC. The ******* anese 125-pounder made his promotional debut atUFC303, beating CarlosHernandez by decision, before losing to current championJoshuaVan. He then won his next bout against Luis Gurulevia a first-round rear-naked choke.
The Fight Night will be headlined by a pivotal bout in thebantamweight division, featuring former ******* le challenger UmarNurmagomedov against China's YadongSong.
27 days ago
Check out this week's "Spinning Back Clique," MMA Junkie's weekly live show that takes a spin through the biggest topics in mixed martial arts.
This week's panel of Brian "Goze" Garcia, Dan Tom and Danny Segura will join host "Gorgeous" George Garcia live at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) to discuss and debate the following topics:
It wasn't the busiest week in MMA, but things still happened, and we're here to cover it. From Khamzat Chimaev's call for Sean Strickland to sign up for the rematch, to Umar Nurmagomedov's new fight at UFC Shanghai, we discuss the biggest headlines and go over the notable bookings of this past week.
Conor McGregor is finally back. After five long years, "The Notorious" returns to the cage in the main event of Saturday's UFC 329 in a rematch against Max Holloway. Who will win? Where could a win take McGregor's career? Could the Irishman be back in a **** le bout? For the bulk of the show, we discuss all things UFC 329, including McGregor's return vs. Holloway, and other key action from the card.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Spinning Back Clique: McGregor's comeback vs. Holloway at UFC 329
This week's panel of Brian "Goze" Garcia, Dan Tom and Danny Segura will join host "Gorgeous" George Garcia live at noon ET (9 a.m. PT) to discuss and debate the following topics:
It wasn't the busiest week in MMA, but things still happened, and we're here to cover it. From Khamzat Chimaev's call for Sean Strickland to sign up for the rematch, to Umar Nurmagomedov's new fight at UFC Shanghai, we discuss the biggest headlines and go over the notable bookings of this past week.
Conor McGregor is finally back. After five long years, "The Notorious" returns to the cage in the main event of Saturday's UFC 329 in a rematch against Max Holloway. Who will win? Where could a win take McGregor's career? Could the Irishman be back in a **** le bout? For the bulk of the show, we discuss all things UFC 329, including McGregor's return vs. Holloway, and other key action from the card.
This article originally appeared on MMA Junkie: Spinning Back Clique: McGregor's comeback vs. Holloway at UFC 329
1 month ago
KhabibNurmagomedov's teammate believes the former Ultimate Fighting Championship lightweight champion will nevercompete in any combat sport again.
ZubairaTukhugov (20-6) is scheduled to meet former UFC foe ElvesBrenner in a no-gi grappling match at ACBJJ 21 this weekend inMoscow. Ahead of the matchup, Tukhugov revealed that Nurmagomedovisn't very excited about the idea of his return to competition.
Nurmagomedov has been persuading Tukhugov to retire, suggestingthat he just continue training to stay in shape. The latter toldRed Corner MMA: "He laughed and was like, 'Why do you need this?'Leave the sport and just train for yourself. He's been persuadingme to retire for a long time."
Nurmagomedov (29-0) retired from mixed martial arts as theundefeated, undisputed UFC lightweight champion in 2020. Despitemultiple attempts by Dana White to bring him out of retirement,"The Eagle" has stood firm on his stance.
Tukhugov claims Nurmagomedov trains hard every day, almost like heis still an active athlete preparing to compete. He believes theUFC Hall of Famer is still in shape to grapple or fight anyone.However, Tukhugov is certain that Nurmagomedov won't end hisretirement for anything, even a grappling match.
"He actually trains every day, twice a day. No matter where he isand what is going on. He keeps training hard as if he's gettingready for something. He is ready to grapple anyone right now, oreven fight. But I'm 99% sure he won't ever compete again. Based onour conversations, if he says something, he follows through on it99% of the time."
Tukhugov further added that Nurmagomedov would make easy work ofcurrent UFC middleweight champion SeanStrickland if they were to fight right now.
ZubairaTukhugov (20-6) is scheduled to meet former UFC foe ElvesBrenner in a no-gi grappling match at ACBJJ 21 this weekend inMoscow. Ahead of the matchup, Tukhugov revealed that Nurmagomedovisn't very excited about the idea of his return to competition.
Nurmagomedov has been persuading Tukhugov to retire, suggestingthat he just continue training to stay in shape. The latter toldRed Corner MMA: "He laughed and was like, 'Why do you need this?'Leave the sport and just train for yourself. He's been persuadingme to retire for a long time."
Nurmagomedov (29-0) retired from mixed martial arts as theundefeated, undisputed UFC lightweight champion in 2020. Despitemultiple attempts by Dana White to bring him out of retirement,"The Eagle" has stood firm on his stance.
Tukhugov claims Nurmagomedov trains hard every day, almost like heis still an active athlete preparing to compete. He believes theUFC Hall of Famer is still in shape to grapple or fight anyone.However, Tukhugov is certain that Nurmagomedov won't end hisretirement for anything, even a grappling match.
"He actually trains every day, twice a day. No matter where he isand what is going on. He keeps training hard as if he's gettingready for something. He is ready to grapple anyone right now, oreven fight. But I'm 99% sure he won't ever compete again. Based onour conversations, if he says something, he follows through on it99% of the time."
Tukhugov further added that Nurmagomedov would make easy work ofcurrent UFC middleweight champion SeanStrickland if they were to fight right now.
1 month ago
Bantamweights Umar Nurmagomedov and Song Yadong are set to headline the upcoming UFC Shanghai card scheduled for Aug. 29 in China.
Multiple people with knowledge of the promotion’s plans confirmed the news to MMA Fighting on Thursday as the UFC returns to Shanghai for the second consecutive year.
Red Fury MMA first reported the news on Instagram.
The main event comes together after Nurmagomedov was originally scheduled to fight at the UFC Abu Dhabi card scheduled in July, but his opponent David Martinez was forced out with an injury. The UFC sought a replacement, but ultimately decided to pull Nurmagomedov and match him up against Song instead with the fight now headlining the card in Shanghai.
Overall, Nurmagomedov holds a 20-1 record with his only loss coming via decision to former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili.
Multiple people with knowledge of the promotion’s plans confirmed the news to MMA Fighting on Thursday as the UFC returns to Shanghai for the second consecutive year.
Red Fury MMA first reported the news on Instagram.
The main event comes together after Nurmagomedov was originally scheduled to fight at the UFC Abu Dhabi card scheduled in July, but his opponent David Martinez was forced out with an injury. The UFC sought a replacement, but ultimately decided to pull Nurmagomedov and match him up against Song instead with the fight now headlining the card in Shanghai.
Overall, Nurmagomedov holds a 20-1 record with his only loss coming via decision to former bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili.
1 month ago
Mario Bautista doesn’t want to leave it up to the judges in his upcoming fight.
Bautista is set to take on Cory Sandhagen in a bantamweight matchup at UFC 329 on July 11 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. He believes Sandhagen has a clear wrestling disadvantage against him, and plans to push the pace early.
With his last fight being a decision loss, Bautista doesn’t want to let Sandhagen use his evasive movement to bank rounds. Their upcoming clash being a three-rounder, he is eager to avoid leaving it to the judges.
Eyeing a definitive finish, Bautista told Home of Fight: “I’m gonna be hunting that finish. I think it’s obvious where he’s not really the best, which is on the mat. So I’m gonna be hunting for that finish. Pushing hard. We got three rounds. So I’m gonna have to get on the gas right away. I can’t just let him get away with a decision and run around or anything. I think it’s gonna be an exciting fight.”
Bautista (17-3) was riding an eight-fight winning streak, which was snapped by a unanimous decision loss to top contender Umar Nurmagomedov last year. He has since rebounded with a submission win over Vinicius Oliveira this past February. Meanwhile, Sandhagen (18-6) is 1-2 in his last three outings and is coming off a failed ******* le bid against Merab Dvalishvili.
Bautista is set to take on Cory Sandhagen in a bantamweight matchup at UFC 329 on July 11 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. He believes Sandhagen has a clear wrestling disadvantage against him, and plans to push the pace early.
With his last fight being a decision loss, Bautista doesn’t want to let Sandhagen use his evasive movement to bank rounds. Their upcoming clash being a three-rounder, he is eager to avoid leaving it to the judges.
Eyeing a definitive finish, Bautista told Home of Fight: “I’m gonna be hunting that finish. I think it’s obvious where he’s not really the best, which is on the mat. So I’m gonna be hunting for that finish. Pushing hard. We got three rounds. So I’m gonna have to get on the gas right away. I can’t just let him get away with a decision and run around or anything. I think it’s gonna be an exciting fight.”
Bautista (17-3) was riding an eight-fight winning streak, which was snapped by a unanimous decision loss to top contender Umar Nurmagomedov last year. He has since rebounded with a submission win over Vinicius Oliveira this past February. Meanwhile, Sandhagen (18-6) is 1-2 in his last three outings and is coming off a failed ******* le bid against Merab Dvalishvili.
2 months ago
Ian Machado Garry is set to become the first Irishman since Conor McGregor to fight for a UFC ******* le when he faces Islam Makhachev for the welterweight belt in Philadelphia on 15 August.
The 28-year-old, who is first in the promotion's welterweight rankings, will attempt to thwart Russian Makhachev's first defence of his belt at UFC 330 at the XFinity Mobile Arena.
Machado Garry, who has long been predicted to follow in McGregor's footsteps in becoming a UFC champion, last fought in November, beating former ******* le holder Belal Muhammad.
Since joining the UFC in 2021 after winning the welterweight belt in UK-based promotion Cage Warriors, he has won 10 of his 11 fights.
Not since McGregor's defeat by Makhachev's coach Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2018 has an Irishman fought for a ******* le in the UFC.
The 28-year-old, who is first in the promotion's welterweight rankings, will attempt to thwart Russian Makhachev's first defence of his belt at UFC 330 at the XFinity Mobile Arena.
Machado Garry, who has long been predicted to follow in McGregor's footsteps in becoming a UFC champion, last fought in November, beating former ******* le holder Belal Muhammad.
Since joining the UFC in 2021 after winning the welterweight belt in UK-based promotion Cage Warriors, he has won 10 of his 11 fights.
Not since McGregor's defeat by Makhachev's coach Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2018 has an Irishman fought for a ******* le in the UFC.
2 months ago
Ilia Topuria’s defeat to Justin Gaethje at UFC Freedom 250 has created the first major uncertainty of his career.
The Spaniard had been unbeaten before Sunday, but a heavy loss to one of the sport’s most damaging fighters has raised questions about how he will respond.
That debate has brought Khabib Nurmagomedov’s old warning about Tony Ferguson back into focus, because Ferguson’s decline began after a similar night against Gaethje.
Ferguson entered UFC 249 with a 15-1 UFC record, but Gaethje punished him across five rounds and changed the direction of his career.
Khabib later predicted: “Tony Ferguson’s time is finished. Now he’s gonna come back and someone’s gonna beat him again, I believe. When you take damage like this, you’re never gonna be the same. Never ever, even if you’re Tony Ferguson. He took too much damage.”
The Spaniard had been unbeaten before Sunday, but a heavy loss to one of the sport’s most damaging fighters has raised questions about how he will respond.
That debate has brought Khabib Nurmagomedov’s old warning about Tony Ferguson back into focus, because Ferguson’s decline began after a similar night against Gaethje.
Ferguson entered UFC 249 with a 15-1 UFC record, but Gaethje punished him across five rounds and changed the direction of his career.
Khabib later predicted: “Tony Ferguson’s time is finished. Now he’s gonna come back and someone’s gonna beat him again, I believe. When you take damage like this, you’re never gonna be the same. Never ever, even if you’re Tony Ferguson. He took too much damage.”
2 months ago
This is the UFC White House live blog for Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje, the lightweight championship unification main event Sunday at the White House in Washington, D.C.
Topuria (17-0) is yet to be defeated and already has a pair of UFC ******* les to his name won at 155 and 145 pounds, two of the deepest divisions in MMA. His incredible achievements have him at No. 2 in the MMA Fighting Pound-for-Pound Rankings, behind only former lightweight champion and current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
It’s been a ******* py road for Topuria since winning the lightweight belt in June 2025 as he unsuccessfully pursued a superfight with Makhachev and then had to take time off to deal with personal matters. However, he’s a heavy favorite heading into Sunday’s main event and for good reason. “El Matador” has already knocked out a number of legends in the cage, including Charles Oliveira and featherweight greats Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. A win over Gaethje could propel Topuria to his long-awaited grudge match with Makhachev.
Gaethje (27-5) is determined to foil those plans as he heads into what could be his last chance to become undisputed UFC champion. Already the only fighter to win two interim UFC ******* les, Gaethje has previously twice fought for the chance to be the No. 1 name at 155 pounds, but was denied by Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira. “The Highlight” clawed his way back to a unification bout with consecutive wins over Paddy Pimblett and Rafael Fiziev, and could cap off one of the most memorable careers in MMA history if he defies the odds and hands Topuria his first loss.
Check out the UFC White House live blog for Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje below.
Topuria (17-0) is yet to be defeated and already has a pair of UFC ******* les to his name won at 155 and 145 pounds, two of the deepest divisions in MMA. His incredible achievements have him at No. 2 in the MMA Fighting Pound-for-Pound Rankings, behind only former lightweight champion and current welterweight champion Islam Makhachev.
It’s been a ******* py road for Topuria since winning the lightweight belt in June 2025 as he unsuccessfully pursued a superfight with Makhachev and then had to take time off to deal with personal matters. However, he’s a heavy favorite heading into Sunday’s main event and for good reason. “El Matador” has already knocked out a number of legends in the cage, including Charles Oliveira and featherweight greats Alexander Volkanovski and Max Holloway. A win over Gaethje could propel Topuria to his long-awaited grudge match with Makhachev.
Gaethje (27-5) is determined to foil those plans as he heads into what could be his last chance to become undisputed UFC champion. Already the only fighter to win two interim UFC ******* les, Gaethje has previously twice fought for the chance to be the No. 1 name at 155 pounds, but was denied by Khabib Nurmagomedov and Charles Oliveira. “The Highlight” clawed his way back to a unification bout with consecutive wins over Paddy Pimblett and Rafael Fiziev, and could cap off one of the most memorable careers in MMA history if he defies the odds and hands Topuria his first loss.
Check out the UFC White House live blog for Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje below.
2 months ago
Bryce Mitchell and Santiago Luna meet on the UFC Fight Night 278 main card Saturday at the Meta APEX in Las Vegas. Check out this quick breakdown of the matchup from MMA Junkie ***** yst Dan Tom.
Last event's results: 4-1-1
UFC main cards, 2026: 53-30-1
Mitchell (18-3 MMA, 9-3 UFC) looks to keep the momentum going after returning to the win column last July with a unanimous decision win over Said Nurmagomedov.
Luna (8-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) is undefeated in his pro career and won his first two UFC appearances by defeating Quang Le and Angel Pacheco.
Last event's results: 4-1-1
UFC main cards, 2026: 53-30-1
Mitchell (18-3 MMA, 9-3 UFC) looks to keep the momentum going after returning to the win column last July with a unanimous decision win over Said Nurmagomedov.
Luna (8-0 MMA, 2-0 UFC) is undefeated in his pro career and won his first two UFC appearances by defeating Quang Le and Angel Pacheco.
2 months ago
Usman Nurmagomedov isn't getting big-fight feels from Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje.
Lightweight champion Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) unifies his belt with interim champ Gaethje (27-5 MMA, 10-5 UFC) in the UFC Freedom 250 main event on June 14 from the White House in Washington D.C.
PFL lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (21-0) recalls how his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov sold the most pay-per-views in UFC history when he fought Conor McGregor, and how Topuria isn't generating nearly as much hype for his fight against Gaethje.
"Can you imagine brother? I didn't even know when they were going to fight," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. "I swear, I don't know. I remember when Khabib was fighting with McGregor, every kid knew about that fight. Every even grandmother, grandfather, even kings from some countries, everybody knew.
"But they do some big tournament, White House, but **** ody knows about it. I don't know why. Maybe because of this short guy, he's not so famous. I don't know why the people now don't like the lightweight division in the UFC. But if I will come there, I'm going to fix it."
Lightweight champion Topuria (17-0 MMA, 9-0 UFC) unifies his belt with interim champ Gaethje (27-5 MMA, 10-5 UFC) in the UFC Freedom 250 main event on June 14 from the White House in Washington D.C.
PFL lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (21-0) recalls how his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov sold the most pay-per-views in UFC history when he fought Conor McGregor, and how Topuria isn't generating nearly as much hype for his fight against Gaethje.
"Can you imagine brother? I didn't even know when they were going to fight," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. "I swear, I don't know. I remember when Khabib was fighting with McGregor, every kid knew about that fight. Every even grandmother, grandfather, even kings from some countries, everybody knew.
"But they do some big tournament, White House, but **** ody knows about it. I don't know why. Maybe because of this short guy, he's not so famous. I don't know why the people now don't like the lightweight division in the UFC. But if I will come there, I'm going to fix it."
2 months ago
Usman Nurmagomedov will fulfill the final fight on his current contract at PFL Long Island, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated free agencies in recent MMA history.
Undefeated reigning PFL lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (21-0) will meet Archie Colgan (13-0) in the main event of the July 31 card at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, N.Y. (ESPN). It's a massive moment for him, because it will set the stage for the next chapter of his career.
Nurmagomedov's potential free agency has been a major talking point for several months. It's now approaching reality, and although Nurmagomedov has nothing but praise for what PFL has done to him, he expects his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, of Dominance MMA, to survey the entire landscape.
"I did already 12 fights in Bellator and PFL and I'm very thankful for that," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. "I love it. We have really good relationship with the team from PFL. I don't know what's going to happen next. If we talk about today, I didn't sign nothing. I have one fight left – this fight. Then we'll see.
"I don't have any problem to stay with PFL. I love PFL and let's see. Let's see if I will show my best performance. I think a lot of people will be interested in me. First of all, it's going to be PFL. I cannot say something now because this is Ali's job. I think he's going to figure it out. ... I will go out and do my job and if somebody going to pay me good money, we will stay there."
Undefeated reigning PFL lightweight champion Nurmagomedov (21-0) will meet Archie Colgan (13-0) in the main event of the July 31 card at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, N.Y. (ESPN). It's a massive moment for him, because it will set the stage for the next chapter of his career.
Nurmagomedov's potential free agency has been a major talking point for several months. It's now approaching reality, and although Nurmagomedov has nothing but praise for what PFL has done to him, he expects his manager, Ali Abdelaziz, of Dominance MMA, to survey the entire landscape.
"I did already 12 fights in Bellator and PFL and I'm very thankful for that," Nurmagomedov told MMA Junkie. "I love it. We have really good relationship with the team from PFL. I don't know what's going to happen next. If we talk about today, I didn't sign nothing. I have one fight left – this fight. Then we'll see.
"I don't have any problem to stay with PFL. I love PFL and let's see. Let's see if I will show my best performance. I think a lot of people will be interested in me. First of all, it's going to be PFL. I cannot say something now because this is Ali's job. I think he's going to figure it out. ... I will go out and do my job and if somebody going to pay me good money, we will stay there."
