MMA Fighting

Conner Burks and Mike Heck react to Episode 8 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e0owDCDalI0 Follow Conner Burks: @ConnerBurks Follow Mike Heck: @NewYorkRic Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael "Venom" Page surprised a lot of people on Monday when he announced he was a free agent on The MMA Hour after his previous deal with Bellator had run out. While Bellator has the option to match outside offers, the options for Page are likely aplenty. Will "MVP" return to Bellator, head to the UFC, or a different promotion? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Page's announcement, where he believes the UFC could find themselves on the list of suitors, and more. Additionally, listener topics include Mayra Bueno Silva's submission win over Holly Holm in the main event of UFC Vegas 77, who Islam Makhachev could fight at UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi, UFC London, the ticket prices to attend a UFC event, rumors about the UFC 291 fight between Paulo Costa and Ikram Aliskerov, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with UFC knockout king Matt Brown and Damon Martin discussing the latest in combat sports including the boxing match between Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury. After leaving the UFC in free agency, Ngannou secured exactly what he wanted with fight against Fury but does the former heavyweight champion actually stand a realistic shot at winning? Is Ngannou’s only hope that he can land a big bomb to finish Fury? Plus we look ahead at UFC 291 and breakdown the main and co-main event as Dustin Poirier battles Justin Gaethje and Jan Blachowicz takes on Alex Pereira. Brown will not only give his thoughts on the fight but he will detail what Gaethje has to do to beat Poirier this time around after falling to him in their first encounter. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After her impressive second-round submission win over former champion Holly Holm in the main event of UFC Vegas 77, Mayra Bueno Silva has certainly made a case to fight for the bantamweight title recently vacated by Amanda Nunes. Was the victory enough to push Bueno Silva ahead of either Julianna Pena or Raquel Pennington, or is there more work to be done? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and guest host Jed Meshew attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective following Saturday's card at the APEX. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Holm, Jack Della Maddalena after his very close split decision win over Bassil Hafez in the co-main event, along with fellow main card winners Francisco Prado, Jun Yong Park, Norma Dumont, Nazim Sadykhov, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fresh off the incredible UFC 290, the world's premiere MMA promotion returned with another APEX offering, UFC Vegas 77, and while the card as whole was somewhat forgettable, the main event gave us something to talk about as Mayra Bueno Silva staked her claim to a bantamweight title shot by submitting former champion Holly Holm in the second round. Following UFC Vegas 77, MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew, Eric Jackman, and José Youngs react to Bueno Silva's big win, Jack Della Maddalena's difficult test against short-notice opponent Bassil Hafez in the co-main event, the lightweight futures of prospects Francisco Prado and Nazim Sadykhov, the consistent entertainment value of "The Iron Turtle" Jun Yong Park, and what was quite possibly the final women's featherweight fight in UFC history. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexandre Pantoja é o mais novo brasileiro a deter um cinturão do UFC, e a vitória veio na base da emoção diante de Brandon Moreno em Las Vegas, EUA. O peso-mosca volta ao Trocação Franca e fala do triunfo, a festa na cidade natal, Arraial do Cabo, o desejo de defender o título até o final do ano, quem deveria ser seu próximo desafiante, e muito mais. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Alexandre Pantoja is the new UFC flyweight champion — and he pulled it off in incredible fashion after a five-round war with Brandon Moreno. Now, the UFC titleholder returns to Trocação Franca to discuss his victory and what it means for his legacy, who should be next for his title, and much more. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following an epic UFC 290 event, the UFC returns to the APEX on Saturday for UFC Vegas 77, and with the women's bantamweight title currently vacant, the stakes are high for headliners Holly Holm and Mayra Bueno Silva. But could the stakes have been even higher by adding the title recently vacated by Amanda Nunes? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Shaheen Al-Shatti discuss the main event between Holm and Bueno Silva, the stakes involved in the bantamweight tilt, if the belt should've been on the line, and, at worst, if a title shot could await the winner following Amanda Nunes' retirement. Additionally, they'll discuss the card as a whole, Jack Della Maddalena getting rebooked against a promotional newcomer in the main event, the backstage pull-apart between Norma Dumont and Chelsea Chandler, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As if the combat sports news cycle couldn't get any crazier this week, Jamahal Hill announced on Thursday that he ruptured his Achilles tendon and will be vacating the UFC light heavyweight title. With the belt vacant once again, Jiri Prochazka getting ready to return, and Jan Blachowicz vs. Alex Pereira booked for UFC 291 later this month, how will a new champion get crowned? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts too Hill's injury, and lays out some of the options that seem to be in play to keep the title picture moving forward. Additionally, topics include Francis Ngannou getting the fight with Tyson Fury, the fallout from UFC 290, Robbie Lawler's perfect retirement and how the UFC is capable of greatness more often than fans are getting, Islam Makhachev's options for his lightweight title defense in Abu Dhabi, Alexandre Pantoja's next move after winning the flyweight title against Brandon Moreno this past Saturday, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While UFC 290 this past Saturday was one of the best fight cards the UFC has delivered in quite some time, the headlines were moved from that incredible event to one of the promotion's former heavyweight champions as Francis Ngannou got the fight he wanted. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Ngannou getting a boxing match with heavyweight champ Tyson Fury in October, the chances Ngannou has, and how the UFC will respond. Additionally, topics include UFC 290's top storylines, Volkanovski's dominant win against Yair Rodriguez, Alexandre Pantoja's victory over Brandon Moreno in a classic, Dricus Du Plessis shocking the world by stopping Robert Whittaker and his subsequent face-to-face with Israel Adesanya, #UFCVegas77 this Saturday headlined by Holly Holm vs. Mayra Bueno Silva, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the immediate rematch between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming off the sensational UFC 290 card, the world's premier MMA organization returns with a disappointing follow-up: UFC Vegas 77, headlined by a women's bantamweight fight between Holly Holm and Mayra Bueno Silva. Is it a good card? No. But nonetheless, the No Bets Barred boys are back to break it all done. The conversation starts with the majesty of UFC 290 where both Conner Burks and Jed Meshew had winning weeks, and much fun was had by all. Then it's on to new business as with a lackluster, difficult card, both men have to pick their spots to find value. Topics discussed include whether the main event will crown the best women's bantamweight (now that Amanda Nunes has retired), Jack Della Maddalena's short-notice switcharoo, and the brilliance of the lightweight division. Tune in for Episode 53 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The dust has settled on another chaotic International Fight Week, but where does UFC 290 rank among the greatest pay-per-views in IFW history? Shaun Al-Shatti, Jed Meshew, and Damon Martin reflect on the stunning rise of Dricus Du Plessis around (7:55), rank their three most likely men to end Alexander Volkanovski's featherweight reign around (15:30), fantasy draft the best (and worst) IFW cards of all-time around (36:26), and pour one for three fan-favorite fallen comrades who tumbled out of MMA Fighting's global rankings in this latest rankings cycle around (1:17:25). Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whindersson Nunes é um dos maiores YouTubers do Brasil e está brilhando no mundo do boxe de entretenimento. O humorista falou com exclusividade ao Trocação Franca sobre seu começo nas artes marciais, a decisão de levar a nobre arte como carreira, a possibilidade de enfrentar Jake Paul em 2024, e muito mais. O podcast também recebe Junior Cigano, ex-campeão do UFC, para falar da revanche com Fabrício Werdum no MMA sem luvas, o anúncio do duelo Francis Ngannou x Tyson Fury no boxe, e a conquista do amigo Alexandre Pantoja no UFC. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Whindersson Nunes is one of Brazil’s most popular YouTubers — and he’s doing great as an influencer boxer. The comedian returns to Trocação Franca to chat about his start in martial arts, kicking off a career in boxing, possibly facing Jake Paul in 2024, and much more. The podcast also speaks with former UFC champion Junior dos Santos about his upcoming bare-knuckle MMA fight with Fabricio Werdum, Francis Ngannou’s boxing match with Tyron Fury, and fellow ATT talent Alexandre Pantoja winning UFC gold. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conner Burks and Eric Jackman react to Episode 7 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e0owDCDalI0 Follow Conner Burks: @ConnerBurks Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou vs. Tyson Fury is official! On Tuesday, news broke that Ngannou and Fury will face each other on Oct. 28 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in a boxing match. While details on the fight are still murky, the big picture is that the two will compete under boxing rules but Fury's WBC Heavyweight title will not be up for grabs. Whether the bout will be contested as an exhibition is still unknown but what is known is that Ngannou has definitively silenced his doubters by securing the fight many thought was a pipe dream. MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Eric Jackman react to the breaking news, discuss Ngannou's ability to seemingly will things into existence, and ponder a world where just maybe Ngannou can pull off the biggest upset in combat sports history. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaheen Al-Shatti: @shaunalshatti Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with Matt Brown and Damon Martin discussing the fallout from UFC 290 including Alexander Volkanovski’s lopsided win over Yair Rodriguez, Alexandre Pantoja defeating Brandon Moreno and Dricus Du Plessis’ stunning upset over Robert Whittaker. Plus Brown will offer some advice to his fellow fighters about planning for the future and following Robbie Lawler's retirement, he teases an upcoming card that could potentially serve as a landing spot for the final fight of his own career. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Where does Alexander Volkanovski go following his one-sided main event victory to retain his UFC featherweight championship in the UFC 290 main event? What about the challenger Yair Rodriguez after getting stopped in the third-round by Volkanovski? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer those questions from a matchmaking perspective, and discuss whether Volkanovski's best potential option is another featherweight title defense against Ilia Topuria, or a lightweight title rematch with Islam Makhachev. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for new flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja and now former two-time champ Brandon Moreno, Dricus Du Plessis following his shocking finish of Robert Whittaker, along with fellow main card winners Dan Hooker, Bo Nickal, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 290 delivered one of the best fight cards in quite some time on Saturday night in Las Vegas, and it was capped off by a dominant performance from arguably the best fighter on the planet today in Alexander Volkanovski. Following the UFC's latest pay-per-view offering, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Volkanovski's sensational third-round TKO win over Yair Rodriguez in the main event, and if Islam Makhachev or Ilia Topuria will be his next opponent. Additionally, they discuss the overall greatness of the card as a whole, Alexandre Pantoja's emotional title win over Brandon Moreno, Dricus Du Plessis' stunning finish of Robert Whittaker and future matchup with Israel Adesanya, Robbie Lawler's perfect ending to his legendary career, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 290's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 290 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VFE8ee_wfyg Reaction to Robbie Lawler's incredible final fight (6:09) Bo Nickal vs. Val Woodburn (33:48) Bo Nickal wins via first-round KO (36:35) Dan Hooker vs. Jalin Turner (52:38) Hooker hurts Turner in Round 2 (1:06:06) Hooker hurts Turner in Round 3 (1:09:45) Hooker wins split decision (1:15:06) Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus Du Plessis (1:30:25) Du Plessis finishes Whittaker in Round 2 (1:41:40) Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja (2:03:01) Pantoja wins title via split decision (2:38:00) Alexander Volkanovski vs. Yair Rodriguez (2:59:11) Volkanovski stops Rodriguez in Round 3 to retain title (3:20:30) Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander Volkanovski and Yair Rodriguez will cap off Saturday's championship doubleheader at UFC 290, along with a tremendous flyweight title co-main event between Brandon Moreno and Alexandre Pantoja. With UFC 290 a day away, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee preview the top storylines from the International Fight Week card, the spectacular main event and potential changing of the guard at 145, the under-the-radar co-main event and the questions surrounding it, bold predictions from the panelists for the rest of the card, whether a Dricus Du Plessis win over Robert Whittaker would be more shocking than a Bo Nickal loss to Val Woodburn, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the UFC is hours away from their main attraction of their annual International Fight Week, Alexander Volkanovski will look to take one step closer to featherweight all-time greatness when he defends his title against the dangerous Yair Rodriguez. With a win, does Volkanovski remain at 145 to face the likes of Ilia Topuria, or even an Aljamain Sterling should he make the move up? Or, will he move back up to 155? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck returns for another Free-For-All Friday, where listener topics include Volkanovski's future depending on how things play out in the main event of Saturday's big card in Las Vegas. Additionally, topics include the UFC middleweight title picture and Sean Strickland's chances to get a championship fight with Israel Adesanya in September, Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja, UFC's merchandising for fans attending events, Robbie Lawler's retirement fight, the 2023 UFC Hall of Fame ceremony, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This Saturday, the UFC's annual International Fight Week extravaganza will be capped off by UFC 290, featuring two title fights, and one of the top pound-for-pound fighters on the planet in Alexander Volkanovski putting his featherweight title on the line against interim champ Yair Rodriguez in the main event. Stylistically, is Rodriguez the toughest 145-pound test to date for Volkanovski? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will break down the featherweight unification bout, discuss where Volkanovski goes with a win, and more. Additionally, topics include the under the radar co-main event between flyweight champion Brandon Moreno and challenger Alexandre Pantoja, how the rest of the card stacks up compared to past International Fight Week cards, Sean Strickland's big win over Abus Magomedov and his chances of getting a title fight with Israel Adesanya next, Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler's pull-apart on TUF, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 290 might not be the most star-studded International Fight Week card in UFC history, but there the two title fights seem incredibly competitive on paper, and there are a lot of interesting storylines in play. Although there are some big favorites on the card, could there be a big underdog who could shock the MMA community on Saturday night in Las Vegas? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck responds to listener bold predictions for UFC 290, along with Yair Rodriguez's chances against Alexander Volkanovski in the featherweight championship main event. Additionally, listener topics include where Robbie Lawler ranks in the all-time welterweight list ahead of his final fight this weekend, Bo Nickal and Jack Della Maddalena's debuting opponents, the stakes in the Dan Hooker vs. Jalin Turner fight, past and present fighters on the UFC commentary desk, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After what feels like an eternity of mediocrity, the UFC is finally back in a big way with UFC 290. As always, the UFC does it big on International Fight Week and so the No Bets Barred boys are here to do the same, breaking down all the fights for this weekend. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick the show off by talking about how excited they are for UFC 290, and even throw in a little conversation about Sean Strickland. Then it's right into 290 talk with Conner and Jed disagreeing on the top three fights! Lots of dissension in the ranks this week, but there's one thing everyone can agree on, Alexander Volkanovski, Yair Rodriguez, Brandon Moreno, and Alexandre Pantoja are going to put on one (Mike) Heck of a show on Saturday. Tune in for Episode 52 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Brasil não tem um cinturão no UFC pela primeira vez em mais de uma década, e cabe a Alexandre Pantoja encerrar o jejum sábado, pelo UFC 290, contra o rei dos moscas Brandon Moreno. O Trocação Franca dessa semana analisa o card na companhia de Luis Fernando Coutinho, do Canal Encarada, e debater a novela Elon Musk x Mark Zuckerberg no MMA. O podcast também recebe Raush Manfio para falar da grande polêmica envolvendo ele e seu amigo Natan Schulte na PFL. Brazil has no UFC titles for the first time in over a decade, and it’s up to Alexandre Pantoja to change that at Saturday night’s UFC 290, when he faces flyweight king Brandon Moreno. Trocação Franca breaks down the top matches with Canal Encarada’s Luis Fernando Coutinho, as well as the bizarre Elon Musk-Mark Zuckerberg potential MMA feud. The podcast also chats with Raush Manfio about the controversial PFL situation related to this fight with friend and teammate Natan Schulte. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander K. Lee and E. Casey Leydon react to Episode 6 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/e0owDCDalI0 Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekcSubscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 290 just days away, The Fighter vs. The Writer tackles the upcoming card with Alan Jouban joining the show as a special co-host looking ahead at both the main and co-main events. At the top of the card, Alexander Volkanovski will attempt to defend his title against Yair Rodriguez but where would he sit amongst the all time greats at featherweight with another win? Has Volkanovski done enough to surpass the legacy of Jose Aldo at 145 pounds? We’ll also breakdown the co-main event where Brandon Moreno looks to get revenge on Alexandre Pantoja after suffering two previous losses to him while also attempting to defend his flyweight title. Moreno has come a long way since his last loss to Pantoja but is this a mountain he’s finally ready to climb? Plus we’ll debate Robert Whittaker’s chances of earning a third fight against Israel Adesanya when he faces off with Dricus du Plessi on Saturday. Does Whittaker need to do something special to justify that third shot against Adesanya or at least get people interested in the trilogy after falling to “The Last Stylebender” twice previously. All this and much more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Can you believe that 2023 is already half over? That's right, it's July now which means the year has hit the halfway mark and there's been a ton of stuff that has happened already. So what better thing to do than remember it all? MMA Fighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew circle up to discuss their picks for Best Fighter, Fight, Knockout, Submission, and more so far this year. Who will take home these prestigious Half-Year Awards? Tune in to find out! Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Strickland feels he deserves a title shot after putting Abus Magomedov away in the second round of the UFC Vegas 76 main event, but will he get the fight with Israel Adesanya next, or will he have to win a few more before that opportunity comes his way? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee put on the matchmaking hats following Saturday's event at the APEX and discuss where Strickland goes from his second straight victory. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Grant Dawson after his dominant decision victory over Damir Ismagulov, Michael Morales following his impressive victory over Max Griffin, along with fellow main card winners Ariane Lipski, Benoit Saint-Denis, Nursulton Ruziboev, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Strickland needed less than two rounds to put away Abus Magomedov in the main event of UFC Vegas 76 on Saturday night at the APEX, and then called out for a title fight against current middleweight champion Israel Adesanya for September. As of this moment, is Strickland sitting atop the contender's perch? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Strickland's second-round TKO win over Magomedov, and his title hopes following the victory depending on what happens in the UFC 290 bout between Robert Whittaker and Dricus Du Plessis. Additionally, they discuss Kevin Lee's 55 second submission loss to Rinat Fakhretdinov, where "The Motown Phenom," and Fakhretdinov go from the bout, Grant Dawson's suffocating win over Damir Ismagulov in the co-main event, how long Dawson's road to a title shot could be despite his talent, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Strickland headlines his fifth event at UFC APEX and given his results and notoriety, is it possible that the controversial middleweight contender might actually find himself in a title shot? Champion Israel Adesanya has mentioned Strickland in the past and he needs a challenger soon… MMA Fighting’s Alexander K. Lee, Jed Meshew, and José Youngs break down the latest show from the UFC’s Las Vegas facility, from the weekend’s main event to an intriguing lightweight co-headliner between Damir Ismagulov and Grant Dawson, plus the return of one-time interim title challenger Kevin Lee and top welterweight prospect Michael Morales. Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Henry Cejudo announced on Thursday that a shoulder injury has scratched him from his UFC 292 matchup with Marlon Vera in Boston. While Vera is calling for a fight with Petr Yan, if the former champion is not available, should Vera remain on the card to face another ranked bantamweight? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Cejudo's withdrawal and where Vera could go after losing a big-time matchup. Additionally, listener questions include UFC 290, Ilia Topuria's title hopes after his big win over Josh Emmett, Aljamain Sterling possibly moving to 145 pounds after facing Sean O'Malley, the MMA media landscape, the best play-by-play announcers in sports, how Jim Ross would fare calling UFC fights, how Jon Anik would do calling WWE matches, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Billionaires Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg apparently want to fight in a cage against one another in this crazy year that is 2023, and UFC President Dana White doesn't just want to promote it, he's all-in on the idea of promoting what he predicts will be the "biggest fight ever in the history of the world." While he might be right, are you interested in seeing it, and if so, would you want it in the octagon? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will give their thoughts on the potential bout, and White's overwhelming interest in being a part of it. Additionally, topics include the controversy surrounding the fallout of PFL 6, Natan Schulte and Raush Manfio's poor effort, both fighters being suspended — which led to Schulte being ousted from the playoffs for Shane Burgos — who the blame goes to, Ilia Topuria's incredible performance against Josh Emmett in the main event of UFC Jacksonville, if a title shot could be next, Saturday's UFC Vegas 76 card headlined by Sean Strickland vs. Abus Magomedov, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup, which features the return of MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew as he challenges Eric "New York Ric" Jackman for the BTL title. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Strickland feels he should be in play for Israel Adesanya and the middleweight title should he be successful in his UFC Vegas 76 main event matchup with Abus Magomedov this Saturday. Should he be victorious, would Strickland be in the driver's seat to face the champ in Sydney in September? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on Strickland's chances to get the title fight with a win, and what could happen should Magomedov get a massive win in just his second octagon appearance. Additionally, topics include Dana White announcing Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Kelvin Gastelum as the co-main event for the UFC's event on Sept. 16 and if it was the correct fight to make, the most underrated UFC fights during the pandemic era, if a Jon Jones vs. Francis Ngannou fight could ever happen, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC is back with another dynamite fight card and you know what that means, the No Bets Barred boys are here to break down all their best gambling plays for the weekend. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick the show off by asking the simple question: why is this card even happening? Then after an impassioned sales pitch from Conner over the merits of the fight card, he and Jed dive into the main event between Sean Strickland and Abus Magomedov, the co-main event between Damir Ismagulov and Grant Dawson, and every other fight on the card. Plus, the boys also wax poetic on Ilia Topuria's sensational performance against Josh Emmett at UFC Jacksonville. Tune in for Episode 51 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander K. Lee and Conner Burks react to Episode 5 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/t0vJfXhB39k Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ilia Topuria called for a title shot after his one-sided decision win over Josh Emmett in the main event of Saturday's UFC Jacksonville event, and after the performance that Topuria had, it will be tough to argue with him. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Topuria's masterclass, gives his thoughts from the bout watching from octagon-side, Topuria's potential star power, and making the case to give the exciting 145-pound contender exactly what he wants. Additionally, listener topics include the controversial fallout from PFL 6 that saw Natan Schulte and Raush Manfio receive a promotional suspension for their lackluster battle, Shane Burgos getting into the playoffs, and who is to blame, along with Maycee Barber's big win over Amanda Ribas, the UFC's mid-year grade, the two title fights set for UFC 290, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to the proposed fight between billionaires Mark Zuckerberg and Elon Musk, which UFC president Dana White is already touting as potentially the biggest matchup in combat sports history. But is there a chance this fight actually happens? Brown offers his opinion on Zuckerberg and Musk battling it out in the octagon and how this gimmick fight differs so much from past fighters like Sean Gannon or even CM Punk getting an opportunity in the UFC with very little background in MMA. We’ll also discuss the fabled Mount Rushmore of MMA and discuss if that list should be based on talent and accomplishment or fame and notoriety when it comes to impact in the sport. Plus we’ll start looking ahead at UFC 290 and talk about Ilia Topuria’s win over Josh Emmett at UFC Jacksonville. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ilia Topuria has officially arrived in the UFC's featherweight title picture after a one-sided performance against Josh Emmett in the main event of Saturday's UFC Jacksonville event. While Topuria's showing opened up a lot of eyes, was it enough to get him a championship opportunity against Alexander Volkanovski or Yair Rodriguez? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee state their case for Topuria to get a title shot following his breakout win, and why Topuria fighting Max Holloway in his next appearance is not the way to go. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Maycee Barber after her incredible showing against Amanda Ribas in the co-main event, David Onama following his sensational knockout victory, Brendan Allen after stopping Bruno Silva in the main card opener, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ilia Topuria is the real deal. The Spanish sensation tore through Josh Emmett in an eye-opening performance at UFC Jacksonville, but is a title shot next? MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and E. Casey Leydon break down all the post-fight angles coming out of Saturday's action-packed card. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow E. Casey Leydon: @EKC Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC hits the ABC airwaves for the second time in 2023 on Saturday afternoon — and one of featherweight’s most exciting young talents is taking center stage. MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and José Youngs are BACK to break down UFC Jacksonville, the intriguing main event between Josh Emmett and Ilia Topuria, plus a whole lot more ahead of this weekend's card. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The beauty of doing a live show in the MMA space is that when big news gets confirmed, you can react to it in real time — and that's what happened on Friday with the confirmation of the UFC Paris flyweight bout between former strawweight champion Rose Namajunas and Manon Fiorot. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives an instant reaction to the Namajunas vs. Fiorot matchmaking. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC bantamweight title picture, Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko 2 on tap for Sept. 16, Erin Blanchfield's championship potential, Cory Sandhagen getting matched up with Umar Nurmagomedov, options for the vacant UFC women's bantamweight title, how Holly Holm could potentially shake things up, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor McGregor is currently part of season 31 of The Ultimate Fighter with the expectations of a fight with fellow coach Michael Chandler later this year, but the UFC star has found himself in the headlines for alleged legal issues. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to the allegations against McGregor and discuss the confidence levels in the fight with Chandler. Additionally, they'll discuss the winner of this past weekend between the UFC, Bellator, and PFL, and what kind of impact the staredown between Francis Ngannou and Jon Jones had, what to make of the UFC's middleweight division after Jared Cannonier's big win over Marvin Vettori, a potential matchup between Cannonier and Khamzat Chimaev, and where it all could leave Israel Adesanya for his next title defense, Saturday's UFC Jacksonville card headlined by Josh Emmett and Ilia Topuria, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Eric "New York Ric" Jackman and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC's bantamweight division continues to have compelling matchups on the schedule, such as two new matchups for UFC 292 in August, including Henry Cejudo and Marlon Vera. Was that the right matchup to make? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the matchmaking, and gives his thoughts on why the UFC went in this direction considering what the main event is for the promotion's return to Boston. Additionally, listener questions include Rob Font vs. Song Yadong being added to that pay-per-view event, Anthony Hernandez vs. Chris Curtis in September, the UFC Jacksonville main event between Josh Emmett and Ilia Topuria, Emmett being a massive underdog, and more. Plus, UFC flyweight contender Jasmine Jasudavicius joins the show to recap her UFC 289 win over Miranda Maverick, talks the Amanda Ribas vs. Maycee Barber fight scheduled for Saturday, and answers listener questions. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC play-by-play voice Jon Anik joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to react to Amanda Nunes' retirement at UFC 289, talks the moment they shared following Nunes' final fight and win over Irene Aldana, the women's bantamweight division, how he would feel about a Ronda Rousey return, Charles Oliveira's finish of Beneil Dariush, a potential rematch with Islam Makhachev, his current star power, the UFC 290 title fights between Alexander Volkanovski and Yair Rodriguez, and Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja, the BMF title fight between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje, confidence levels in Conor McGregor's return, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

No Bets Barred is turning the big 5-0! That's right, your favorite MMA gambling podcast is back with it's 50th episode and what better way for the No Bets Barred boys to celebrate than with the highly anticipated UFC Jacksonville card. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick the show off with a little discussion of UFC Vegas 75 before jumping into a deep discussion on the main event this weekend between Josh Emmett and Ilia Topuria. Then it's on to the rest of this week's UFC card, with topics of conversation including is Maycee Barber any good, can flyweight unders possibly rebound, and what exactly happens when a man fights his own clone. Tune in for Episode 50 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Primeiro convidado da história do Trocação Franca, Anderson Silva volta ao podcast para falar de um desafio diferente: a carreira no cinema e seus objetivos na sétima arte. O programa recebe também Diego Lima, técnico de Charles do Bronx, para destrinchar a vitória sobre Beneil Dariush e os próximos passos, e conversa ainda com as lutadoras do UFC Norma Dumont e Tabatha Ricci. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The first guest in the history of Trocação Franca, Anderson Silva, returns to the program to discuss new challenges and going from a former UFC champion to working on movies. This week’s podcast also features interviews with Charles Oliveira’s head coach Diego Lima, plus UFC fighters Norma Dumont and Tabatha Ricci. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander K. Lee and Conner Burks react to Episode 4 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vReKVdEnNGY Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to the latest news in MMA including the allegations surrounding Conor McGregor. Following an appearance at a Miami Heat game during the NBA Finals, McGregor was accused of sexual assault but through his attorneys, he has denied any wrongdoing. We'll discuss the latest with McGregor and what this could mean for his future. Plus we’ll discuss the impromptu faceoff between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou at a PFL event this past Friday night. As fun as it was to see the heavyweights staring each other down, it seems highly unlikely that Jones and Ngannou will ever cross paths in the cage. While Jones will just move onto potential fights against Stipe Miocic or maybe Sergei Pavlovich, the options seem much more limited for Ngannou as he prepares to embark on his PFL career in 2024. Brown will also discuss cornering some of his fighters at an LFA event this past weekend in Kentucky including an incident where one of his athletes drove an opponent out of the cage during a takedown. All of this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's been a lot of questions about who Israel Adesanya could face at UFC 293 in the promotion's return to Sydney in September with all of the middleweight bouts on the books, but could Bo Nickal be one of the names in play should he get a quick finish of Tresean Gore at UFC 290? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses that possibility after the question is proposed by special guest caller Eric "New York Ric" Jackman, and talk whether or not the UFC would give Nickal that opportunity so quickly in his promotional run. Additionally, listener topics include a potential Jared Cannonier vs. Khamzat Chimaev fight following Cannonier's UFC Vegas 75 win over Marvin Vettori, Arman Tsarukyan's next move following his third-round finish over Joaquim Silva in the co-main event, the PFL's poor pacing continuing with their cards, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jared Cannonier delivered one of the best performances of his career in his main event victory over Marvin Vettori at Saturday's UFC Vegas 75. With the road back to a title shot with Israel Adesanya likely a long one, could Cannonier make it a bit shorter by facing Khamzat Chimaev next? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what could be next for Cannonier following his record-breaking showing against Vettori at the APEX. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Arman Tsarukyan following his third-round TKO win over Joaquim Silva in the co-main event, Armen Petrosyan after handing Christian Leroy Duncan his first loss, Manuel Torres following his vicious finish of Lucas Almeida, along with fellow main card winners Pat Sabatini, Nicolas Dalby, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following the UFC Vegas 75 main event between Jared Cannonier and Marvin Vettori, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and José Youngs react to the five-round middleweight battle, the big moments from Saturday's card at the UFC APEX, the best of the weekend in MMA, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor McGregor’s career could be in jeopardy following sexual assault accusations stemming from an alleged incident that took place at the NBA Finals in Miami last Friday. This isn’t the first time that McGregor’s name has been tied to such allegations, so could this be the incident that forces the UFC to make a decision on his fighting future? On a Free-For-All-Friday edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee talks about the McGregor situation and what this means for The Ultimate Fighter 31 and his expected matchup with Michael Chandler, plus what to make of the trio of major fights announced Thursday, including Max Holloway vs. “The Korean Zombie” Chan Sung Jung. We also answer questions about Charles Oliveira’s GOAT argument and what we can expect in an Islam Makhachev rematch, Holloway potentially fighting one of the upcoming “BMF” title challengers Justin Gaethje or Dustin Poirier, Ian Machado Garry’s step-up fight against Geoff Neal, whether fighters should wear shirts and have more sponsorship opportunities, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 289 is in the books, and will go down to most in the MMA community as a card that exceeded expectations, and also saw one of the best to ever compete inside the UFC's octagon calling it a career after a dominant final title defense. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses the aftermath of this past Saturday's pay-per-view event, Amanda Nunes retiring following her win over Irene Aldana, and where the women's 135-pound division goes from here. Additionally, topics include Charles Oliveira's first-round finish of Beneil Dariush and if the rematch for the lightweight title with Islam Makhachev is the fight to make, Bellator 297 this Friday, featuring Patricio Pitbull's quest to become a three-division champion, if it's the best card of the weekend, plus UFC Vegas 75, PFL 5, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There will be a lot of mixed martial arts action this weekend from three of the biggest promotions on the planet with Bellator 297 and PFL 5 on Friday, while the UFC returns to the APEX on Saturday night. Which card will have your attention the most? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jose Youngs preview Bellator 297, UFC Vegas 75, and PFL 5, and make the case for Bellator having the best lineup of the three — which includes Vadim Nemkov vs. Yoel Romero in the main event for the light heavyweight title, while Patricio Pitbull will look to become a three-division Bellator champ as he challenges Sergio Pettis for the bantamweight title. They'll also discuss Saturday's UFC Fight Night event, headlined by Marvin Vettori vs. Jared Cannonier, why that's the kind of main event the UFC should be making more often, the card being pretty good compared to past APEX offerings, PFL's next regular season event, Larissa Pacheco not headlining, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's a massive fight on the table between TUF 31 coaches Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, but with Dana White's recent comments, McGregor not being in the USADA pool just yet, amongst others, do you have a lot of confidence in this fight being made? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on whether or not the bout takes place before the end of the year. Additionally, listener topics include the confidence levels in Charles Oliveira getting a lightweight championship rematch with Islam Makhachev after his UFC 289 performance against Beneil Dariush, Arman Tsarukyan's seemingly long road towards title contention, the UFC Vegas 75 main event between Marvin Vettori and Jared Cannonier, predictions for UFC pay-per-view main events for the final stretch of 2023, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 289 is in the books but the summer MMA slate is just getting started as this weekend, combat sports fans are treated to an MMA triple-header! That's right, the UFC, Bellator, and PFL are all delivering content for your viewing pleasure this weekend and that means the No Bets Barred boys are here to help you profit (or at least have some fun). Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick off the show with a little banter about UFC 289 before jumping right into the discussion on UFC Vegas 75 and the marquee middleweight matchup between Marvin Vettori and Jared Cannonier. Then it's on to Bellator 297 and Patricio Pitbull's chances at becoming MMA's first ever three-division champion, before the boys wrap it up with a little PFL 5 discussion. Tune in for Episode 49 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander K. Lee and Conner Burks react to Episode 3 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vReKVdEnNGY Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While UFC 289 exceeded expectations on Saturday night, Sunday's Floyd Mayweather headlined boxing card was the exact opposite for more than just the post-main event shenanigans that took place between the teams of Mayweather and John Gotti III. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to UFC 289, including the big wins for the now-retired Amanda Nunes, and Charles Oliveira — who stopped Beneil Dariush in the co-main event — as well as the "embarrassing" Mayweather vs. Gotti III boxing event. Additionally, listener questions include the women's GOAT discussion now that Nunes has retired and where "The Lioness" ranks compared to Bellator champ Cris Cyborg, if Oliveira will end up getting the rematch with Islam Makhachev next, if anyone can sneak in and take the shot from "Du Bronx," the UFC women's bantamweight division that currently doesn't have a champion, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin debate the latest topics in MMA including Amanda Nunes’ retirement after defending her bantamweight title at UFC 289. Perhaps more than any other single fighter in MMA history, Nunes has defined herself as the greatest of all time among the women’s divisions but is she really done after such a one-sided victory over Irene Aldana? Where does the bantamweight division go from here without Nunes around? Plus we’ll discuss Floyd Mayweather’s latest exhibition bout gone wrong after he ended up in a brawl with John Gotti III and his entourage following their match on Sunday night. Brown will also counter Daniel Cormier’s argument about Jim Miller not being UFC Hall of Fame material while also responding to a potential matchup against Miller at UFC 300. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trocação Franca no ar em ritmo de “charlinismo”: embalado após nocautear Beneil Dariush no UFC 289, Charles do Bronx fala sobre enfrentar Islam Makhachev novamente, faz campanha para trazer a luta para São Paulo em novembro, comemora mais recordes quebrados no UFC, a fama ao redor do mundo, e muito mais. O programa recebe também o trio da PFL Larissa Pacheco, Renan Problema e Matheus Buffa, além do treinador de jiu-jitsu Daniel Wanderley, ex-técnico de Sérgio Pettis que agora afiou o chão do rival Patrício Pitbull para o Bellator. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Charles Oliveira is back on Trocação Franca after knocking out Beneil Dariush at UFC 289 to chat about rematching Islam Makhachev next, campaign for a fight in São Paulo in November, celebrate more records broken in the UFC, his popularity around the world, and a lot more. The episode also features PFL fighters Larissa Pacheco, Renan Ferreira, and Matheus Scheffel, plus jiu-jitsu coach Daniel Wanderley, Sergio Pettis’ former trainer who coached his upcoming opponent Patricio Pitbull for their Bellator title bout on Friday. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda Nunes dominated Irene Aldana in the main event of UFC 289 to retain her bantamweight title, and then announced her retirement from the sport. With the women's featherweight division likely being shut down, and the 135-pound title being vacant, where does the division now go? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective, while also discussing what could be next for Aldana after coming up short in her first UFC title fight. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush after the former champion stopped the surging Dariush in the first round, Mike Malott following his second-round submission win over Adam Fugitt, Dan Ige after his unanimous decision win over Nate Landwehr, along with fellow main card winner Marc-Andre Barriault, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda Nunes dominated Irene Aldana from bell-to-bell to retain her bantamweight championship in the main event of UFC 289 before laying her gloves, and both of her divisional titles in the octagon as she announced her retirement from the sport of mixed martial arts. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Nunes' masterclass in the final fight of her legendary career, her legacy in the sport, and where the women's 135-pound division goes from here. Additionally, they discuss Charles Oliveira's first-round finish of Beneil Dariush in the highly anticipated co-main event, Dana White declaring Oliveira will likely face Islam Makhachev in a rematch for the lightweight title next, Canadian fighters going 6-0 in the promotion's return to Vancouver — which includes Mike Malott's quick finish of Adam Fugitt, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 289's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 289 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rSoqrOA8tVg Marc-Andre Barriault vs. Eryk Anders (32:58) Barriault drops Anders early (36:03) Barriault wins decision (57:11) Dan Ige vs. Nate Landwehr (1:09:38) Ige drops Landwehr in Round 1 (1:15:50) Ige drops Landwehr in Round 2 (1:21:45) Ige wins decision (1:29:55) Ariel Helwani joins the show for Mike Malott vs. Adam Fugitt (1:33:10) Reaction to fans falling over railing (1:43:18) Malott finishes Fugitt (1:54:28) Ariel reveals big in-studio guest for Monday's edition of The MMA Hour (2:02:29) Ripping packs of 2023 Prizm cards part 1 (2:05:45) Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush (2:10:10) Oliveira finishes Dariush in the first round (2:17:30) Ripping packs of 2023 Prizm cards part 2 (2:33:13) Amanda Nunes vs. Irene Aldana (2:40:30) Nunes wins decision to retain title (3:16:07) Reaction to Nunes retiring (3:17:20) Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda Nunes will walk to the octagon for the 18th time in her UFC career this Saturday in the promotion's return to Canada, but will fans be witnessing that for the final time as she puts her bantamweight title on the line against Irene Aldana in the main event of UFC 289? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee discuss that burning questions on the eve of the UFC's June pay-per-view event, break down the matchup, Aldana being a popular underdog pick, and more. Additionally, they'll discuss the stakes in the incredible lightweight co-main event between Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush, Dana White pulling out the "we'll see" when being asked if the winner will fight Islam Makhachev for the title next, the low-key banger of the card, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC's return to pay-per-view is a little over 24 hours away, and there are a lot of interesting potential storylines heading into UFC 289. What is the biggest burning question you have heading into the promotion's return to Vancouver? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses some of the big headlines heading into Saturday's UFC 289 event, including Amanda Nunes vs. Irene Aldana for the women's bantamweight title, the pivotal lightweight co-main event between Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush, and more. Additionally, listener topics include Aljamain Sterling being underappreciated, PFL 4, Brendan Loughnane getting knocked out in the main event in a stunning upset by Jesus Pinedo, Dan Hardy's reaction to the finish going viral, PFL vs. Bellator in the promoting game, recent UFC signees, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amanda Nunes will headline UFC 289 this Saturday as she defends her bantamweight title against Irene Aldana. Should she be victorious, what will that do for her already cemented legacy, and win or lose, could this be the last time we see the greatest women's fighter of all-time compete? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the main event of Saturday's UFC pay-per-view event in Vancouver. Additionally, they'll discuss the quality of the card, the pivotal lightweight co-main event between former champ Charles Oliveira taking on Beneil Dariush in the latter's biggest fight of his career, Dana White doubling down on a potential Jon Jones vs. Tyson Fury fight in the octagon, the UFC Vegas 74 main event between Amir Albazi and Kai Kara-France, where Albazi goes with the heavily debated decision win, and how the conversation of judging after the fight has aged, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and Eric "New York Ric" Jackman. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Beneil Dariush has done enough to earn a lightweight title shot in the minds of most MMA pundits, and this Saturday, he puts his spot on the line against the former champ in Charles Oliveira. A win for Dariush makes it a no-brainer to give him a title fight against Islam Makhachev, but if he loses, does that slam the door on Dariush ever getting a title shot in the promotion's marquis division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes involved for Dariush in the co-main event of UFC 289, and where Oliveira could go depending on the result. Additionally, listener topics include the PFL's recent drug suspensions, the true No. 2 promotion right now behind the UFC, the UFC's rankings, Mike Malott's ceiling and star potential ahead of his main card matchup this Saturday in Vancouver against Adam Fugitt, Miranda Maverick vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 289 takes place this Saturday for the promotion's first trip to Canada since 2019, and it should be a good one. In the main event, women's bantamweight and featherweight champion Amanda Nunes puts her 135-pound title on the line against Irene Aldana, and in the co-main event, former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira looks to get back to a title shot by beating surging contender Beneil Dariush, and so of course the No Bets Barred boys are back with a thorough breakdown on all their favorite bets. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick off the show with a little banter, and some laments over UFC Vegas 74, which did no go well for either man, before diving into breakdowns of all the fights at UFC 289. Topics discussed include the groundswell of support for Aldana coming into this title fight, a concerning stat for Charles Oliveira, and numerous dissenting views on some of the most interesting undercard fights. Tune in for Episode 48 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Só vencer não basta no MMA atual. Para Charles do Bronx, além de bater Beneil Dariush no UFC 289, é importante fazer barulho na entrevista pós-luta para fisgar a revanche com Islam Makhachev, e é aí que entra Fabiano Buskei. Tradutor dos brasileiros no UFC e fluente em cinco idiomas, ele faz a ponte lutador-fã para aqueles que não sabem inglês. Ao Trocação Franca, Buskei fala da carreira, a relação com lutadores, o carinho especial por Charles, e muito mais. O podcast entrevista ainda Maria Oliveira, que luta no mesmo evento. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Winning is not enough in today’s MMA. For Charles Oliveira, besides beating Beneil Dariush at UFC 289, it’s also important to make noise in his post-fight interview to secure a rematch with Islam Makhachev — and that’s where Fabiano Buskei comes in. Fluent in five languages and a translator for Brazilian fighters in the organization, he’s the bridge between fighters and fans. Buskei chats with Trocação Franca about his career, his relationship with fighters — especially “do Bronx” — and more. The podcast also features an interview with UFC 289’s Maria Oliveira. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander K. Lee and Conner Burks react to Episode 2 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Lpon5z-tlNU Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following a stunning 23-second knockout over Jesse Butler at UFC Vegas 74, Jim Miller joins the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. To kick off the show, Miller will discuss his wild fight week where he arrived in Las Vegas with Jared Gordon as an opponent but then two days prior to the event, he ended up with Butler instead. Miller will address Dana White’s comments after the fight where he blamed Gordon for accepting the fight after suffering a concussion in his last outing and who was really responsible for allowing him to accept the matchup against him on short notice. We’ll also talk about the knockout, which increased Miller’s hold on the all-time record for wins in the UFC while also earning him the fastest finish of his UFC career. Miller also talks about the eye injury he suffered in his previous fight with Alexander Hernandez, his hopes to compete at UFC 300 and the chances that won’t actually end up as his final fight. Plus Miller discusses possible opponents including a potential showdown with Fighter vs. Writer co-host Matt Brown! All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This past Saturday featured another UFC event, and another bout that has led to divisiveness due to the scorecards. While it can be frustrating, fans need to understand a very important lesson — this isn't the first time this has happened, it won't be the last, and nothing is going to change anytime soon. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the scoring of the UFC Vegas 74 main event between Amir Albazi and Kai Kara-France that saw Albazi win a controversial split decision, and answers questions about open scoring, robberies on the cards, and commission transparency. Additionally, topics include UFC 289, the main event of Saturday's pay-per-view card between Amanda Nunes and Irene Aldana, the co-main event between Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush, where the UFC goes with Islam Makhachev if Oliveira is victorious, Alex Caceres' ceiling at 145, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amir Albazi was on the right end of a split decision that many have deemed controversial in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 74 card against one-time interim flyweight title challenger Kai Kara-France. Following the win, Albazi called for a title shot against the winner of the Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja fight at UFC 290 in July, but was his performance enough to get him that opportunity? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's designated matchmakers Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee give their thoughts in regards to what could be next for Albazi following the biggest win of his career. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Alex Caceres following his Fight of the Night bonus earning victory over Daniel Pineda, Jim Miller after brutally knocking out newcomer Jesse Butler in 23 seconds, along with fellow main card winners Tim Elliott, Karine Silva, Elizeu Zaleski, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While most of the MMA community believes Kai Kara-France had done enough to bounce back from his loss to Brandon Moreno in the main event of UFC Vegas 74 on Saturday night, two of the judges disagreed, which led to Amir Albazi picking up the biggest win of his career via split decision. Although the fight was very competitive throughout the 25 minutes, does the scoring of the fight constitute a robbery? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Damon Martin, and E. Casey Leydon react to the promotion's return to the APEX, the scoring of Albazi's win over Kara-France, and whether or not the official scorecards did enough to change opinions of the result when it was initially read. Additionally, topics include Albazi calling for a title shot against the winner of the UFC 290 matchup between Brandon Moreno and Alexandre Pantoja and what his chances of getting it are, Jim Miller's 23 second knockout win, Karine Silva's nasty submission and not getting a bonus, Alex Caceres and Daniel Pineda's wild co-main event battle, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the flyweights taking center stage in a UFC non-title main event for the first time in six years, MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Jed Meshew, and Alexander K. Lee are BACK to break down UFC Vegas 74's main event between Kai Kara-France and Amir Albazi, plus a whole lot more ahead of Saturday's card. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jailton Almeida is getting the opportunity to get one step closer towards a UFC heavyweight title shot as he is targeted to face Curtis Blaydes in the main event of the promotion's Nov. 4 event. Was this the right matchup to make with the current state of the UFC's heavyweight division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the Blaydes vs. Almeida booking, explains why he is 100 percent on board for the matchmaking, and where Blaydes would go should he get a bounce back win over the surging contender. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC's middleweight division, the promotion's future holding events at the UFC APEX and why people should expect those kinds of cards for the foreseeable future, the NBA Finals kicking off with Denver's one-sided win over Miami, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Edição extra do Trocação Franca nessa semana para receber Alex Poatan, ex-campeão dos médios do UFC que estreia em nova categoria diante de Jan Blachowicz. Em um papo franco, Poatan falou da rivalidade com Israel Adesanya, o acordo para disputar o cinturão dos meio-pesados em caso de vitória em julho, o encontro com Tyson Fury na Austrália (e Adesanya no aeroporto), a chegada de um velho rival do kickboxing ao MMA, e muito mais. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca is back (again) this week for a special edition with Alex Pereira, former UFC middleweight champion who makes his 205-pound debut opposite Jan Blachowicz. “Poatan” opened up on his rivalry with Israel Adesanya, the agreement to challenge for the light heavyweight gold with a win in July, meeting boxing legend Tyson Fury in Australia (and Adesanya at the airport), the upcoming MMA debut of an old kickboxing foe, and much more. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first episode of the highly anticipated 31st season of The Ultimate Fighter is in the books featuring future opponents Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler as the coaches. With the hype being built throughout the year, did the season premiere and the seeds planted live up to it? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will give a grade to the first episode of TUF 31, to both coaches, and if the intrigue levels for the rest of the season were raised after Tuesday's show. Additionally, topics include 2022 PFL champ Rob Wilkinson adding to the long list of fighters who have failed drug tests for the 2023 season and how bad this issue is for the promotion, Bellator vs. RIZIN 2 being announced for July, along with the addition of a Bellator flyweight division, Saturday's UFC Vegas 74 event headlined by Kai Kara-France vs. Amir Albazi, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Ultimate Fighter returned to the screens for MMA fans on Tuesday with big name coaches Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler selecting their teams, seedings, and matchups to see who will emerge in the bantamweight and lightweight divisions. For those who watched, did it hook you enough to want to return for episode two? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on the premiere of season 31 of TUF, and why he's intrigued enough to give it another chance next week. Additionally, listener topics include McGregor as a coach and not showing up to the weigh-in for the first fight of the season, UFC matchmaker Mick Maynard's tweets over the weekend about card quality, the potential of the UFC heavyweight division with fighters like Sergei Pavlovich, Jailton Almeida, and Tom Aspinall emerging, how — or if — Jon Jones fits into the equation, golf foursomes featuring MMA fighters, former TUF champ Jesse Taylor, who Shavkat Rakhmonov could fight next, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC Vegas 74 takes place this Saturday headlined by a flyweight showdown between Kai Kara-France and Amir Albazi, and you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back with a thorough breakdown on all their favorite bets. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew celebrate the first non-title fight flyweight main event since 2017(!) by laying some action on their beloved 125ers, plus a ton of other bets up and down the card including some KSW action. This week's bets include the aforementioned Flyweight Unders, Jed comtinuing to reach into the gimmick bag, and even a little dissension on some prelim bouts. Tune in for Episode 47 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor McGregor is back! Alexander K. Lee and Conner Burks react to Episode 1 of The Ultimate Fighter 31 on the debut edition of TUF Hang, which goes live on YouTube every Tuesday at 11 p.m. ET/8 p.m. PT/4 a.m. IST immediately following the conclusion of TUF 31. Watch the show on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/live/fJpaJ_fxBCc?feature=share Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mayra Sheetara encara Holly Holm na luta principal do UFC de 15 de julho, em Las Vegas, e quer usar a oportunidade para calar o sexismo dos fãs que não curte ver mulheres em posição de destaque nos eventos. O podcast dessa semana traz, ainda, entrevistas com Elizeu Capoeira e Philipe Lins, que lutam sábado no octógono, e Josh Silveira, que se parte em busca de uma vaga na semifinal do GP dos meio-pesados da PFL. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Mayra Bueno Silva meets Holly Holm in the main event of a UFC Vegas card on July 15 — and she wants to use the opportunity to silence the sexism of fans that don’t like to watch women headlining cards. This week’s episode of the podcast also features interviews with Elizeu Zaleski and Philipe Lins ahead of Saturday’s UFC show, plus Josh Silveira discussing his path in the 2023 season of the PFL. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paulo Costa has called cap on the UFC's announcement of him facing Ikram Aliskerov at UFC 291 in July. With his second booking of the year being called into question, does this mean that the one-time middleweight title challenger and the UFC are still not on the same page? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer that question in regards to Costa, the matchmaking, and why the UFC isn't moving forward with booking Costa vs. Khamzat Chimaev for the promotion's return to Abu Dhabi in October. Additionally, topics include the Miami Heat beating the Boston Celtics in Game 7 if the NBA Eastern Conference Finals, the UFC's most underrated divisions, the future of the UFC women's bantamweight division depending on the result of the UFC 289 headliner between Amanda Nunes and Irene Aldana, Aljamain Sterling and Dana White's current relationship, who Israel Adesnaya could fight next, Bellator adding a flyweight division, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin discuss the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter where Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler serve as coaches. Brown reminisces about his own appearance on the reality show back in season 8 and how much the series has changed over the years. He will also look back at the infamous lemon juice prank played on him that led to a satisfying win for him on the show. We’ll also discuss the recently announced boxing match between Terrence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr. plus give our early picks on the fight. Plus, we’ll debate who would be the best opponent for Francis Ngannou as he makes the move into boxing? Should he bother with a warmup fight or go after a top heavyweight like Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua or Deontay Wilder? All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the UFC in a rare off week, the MMA Fighting matchmakers return with their sixth installment of "Ask Mike & AK anything" to fill in the gaps. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee answer listener submitted questions for the entire program. Topics include how Bellator champions would stack up against UFC titleholders, Dana White's attitude as of late and if he will be held accountable at all for the negative feedback he's received from fans, if a potential trilogy fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz will happen in the UFC, Bellator's new flyweight division, The Ultimate Fighter, journalism ethics questions that have surfaced recently, when Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington will happen, the PFL's big deal with Francis Ngannou, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC President Dana White and bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling are making headlines right now with a public feud over Sterling possibly not being ready for UFC 292, which would be shocking were it not for the boss' long history of butting heads with some of the promotion's biggest stars. From all-time greats to unappreciated champs, White has frequently found ways to get on the bad side of UFC titleholders. Sometimes it's about money, sometimes it's about fighters bowing down to the UFC's plans, and sometimes it feels like White just doesn't like someone. Regardless, it's never a bad time to refresh everyone's memory when it comes to White's bizarre penchant for anti-promotion. MMA Fighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, Damon Martin, and Jed Meshew, dig deep into the mind of the most powerful man in MMA to figure out what motivates these constant conflicts and discuss the four most important White vs. UFC champion grudges. Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling has been catching some strays as of late from UFC President Dana White, who said that the bantamweight champion "can't seem to get out of his own way" after Sterling wanted to get some lingering injuries checked out following his recent fight with Henry Cejudo earlier this month. Surely, one of the company's world champions deserves better, right? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the way Sterling has been treated as of late ahead of his quick turnaround scheduled title defense against Sean O'Malley at UFC 292 in August, Henry Cejudo wanting to add his name to the mix, and how actual promotion is being graded for the UFC and its fighters. Additionally, listener questions include the NBA Eastern Conference finals and the Celtics dominating the Heat in Game 5, how the UFC at this point in the game feels similar to the WWE during the Hulk Hogan era before WCW changed the game a decade or so later, memorable Memorial Day weekend cards in the UFC, including UFC 146 and UFC 160, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, and on this episode, the MMA Fighting crew remembers the best of former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion, B.J. Penn. As the first non-Brazilian to ever win gold at the BJJ World Championships, Penn entered the UFC in 2001 with an immense amount of hype, and over his 18-year career, the man named “The Prodigy” more than lived up to his moniker. Arguably the best lightweight in the world at the time, just three years into his MMA career, Penn did the unthinkable, jumping up a weight class and submitting the top pound-for-pound fighter in the sport, Matt Hughes, to claim his first UFC title. After that historic win, Penn bounced around, chasing ever greater feats, like destroying lineal lightweight champion Duane Ludwig and then facing off with future light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida, losing a competitive decision. In 2008, Penn finally decided to stop chasing his fights of fancy and put his head down to stake out a legacy at lightweight, claiming the title with a win over Joe Stevenson to become the second fighter in history to win titles in two weight classes inside the UFC, and still the only man to win the lightweight and welterweight belts. For nearly a decade, Penn chased greatness anywhere he could in a way that few ever have. That daring made him beloved to fans and respected among his fellow fighters. Even to this day, all time greats like Anderson Silva have called him the greatest fighter ever, and so for this edition of DAMN, host Jed Meshew is joined by MMAFighting’s Shaheen Al-Shatti and Eric Jackman to remember their favorite moments from “The Prodigy.” Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Eric Jackman @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Between the Links, the MMA Fighting crew is turning the programming over to you, the live viewers, as they banter about your topics in regards to the biggest stories in combat sports. The panel will take your questions all show long about anything you want to talk about in the world of #MMA — including Dana White's response to Francis Ngannou signing with the PFL, the UFC President's comments about Aljamain Sterling and the current bantamweight champion's responses ahead of his UFC 292 title defense against Sean O'Malley in Boston, White saying he'd welcome a Jon Jones vs. Tyson Fury fight inside the octagon, Israel Adesanya's potential opponent for UFC 293 in Sydney, Mackenzie Dern's big win this past weekend and her eye-opening interview on The MMA Hour, and more. Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew as they make up the panel on this week's program. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A lot of MMA fans seem to be excited about a potential matchup between Khamzat Chimaev and former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. With Chimaev recently teasing the matchup himself, and saying it would take place at 170, is that the fight to make? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the possibility of the fight, it being a potential welterweight fight, and why he isn't going to believe it until he sees it. Additionally, listener questions include the ongoing back-and-forth between UFC President Dana White and bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, Belal Muhammad recently saying that Colby Covington is nervous he may lose his welterweight title shot against Leon Edwards, if Muhammad should be the one who should be nervous about his placement in the championship picture, a future TV deal to the UFC, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Brasil tem ótimas frentes pelo cinturão dos palhas no UFC, e o Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe as duas. Amanda Lemos, confirmada pelo título, fala da luta com Zhang Weili após abandonar o esporte para virar mototaxista em Belém, e Mackenzie Dern comenta o atropelo em Angela Hill na luta principal do último final de semana. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Brazil has several contenders in UFC’s strawweight division, and this week’s Trocação Franca welcomes two solid 115ers — Amanda Lemos, next in line for the gold, breaks down has clash with champ Zhang Weili years after quitting the sport to become a motorcycle taxi driver in her hometown, and Mackenzie Dern, who discusses her dominating victory over Angela Hill at this past week’s UFC Vegas 73. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya is expected to headline the UFC's return to Sydney in September, but with so many fights booked in the middleweight division, along with quick turnaround times being a factor, it seems up in the air as to who Adesanya will face on that card. Will there be a shuffling of the deck, so to speak, or will the UFC give Adesanya a second opportunity to become a two-division champion against Jamahal Hill? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on who Adesanya could fight next, the issue with booking Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus Du Plessis two months prior at UFC 290, and making the case for a new lineup of fights at 185 — which includes moving Du Plessis to the title fight with Adesanya in September. Additionally, topics include Dana White's reaction to Francis Ngannou signing with the UFC, White's comments about UFC bantamweight champ Aljamain Sterling, Alex Pereira's move up to 205, when Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington could happen in 2023, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with Matt Brown and Damon Martin debating the latest news in MMA including Dana White’s comments about the PFL signing Francis Ngannou. This past weekend, White revealed his thoughts on Ngannou joining the PFL roster after he left the UFC in free agency. White stated emphatically that he didn’t understand the PFL business model as the company signed Ngannou to a very lucrative deal while struggling to earn TV ratings or sell tickets at events. But did the PFL actually make a bad move signing Ngannou in free agency? Plus, we’ll discuss the news that Conor McGregor is officially returning to the UFC’s anti-doping program, which should clear the way for him to face off with Michael Chandler later this year. While Brown admits that he’s still skeptical about McGregor actually fighting again, one thing he’s certain about is the Irish superstar never reaching a championship or even status as a top five ranked fighter in the world again. Finally, we’ll discuss the boxing match between Devin Haney and Vasyl Lomachenko from this past weekend and how we scored the fight. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following her eye-opening performance against Angela Hill in the main event of UFC Vegas 73, Mackenzie Dern not only called out Rose Namajunas, but also added that fighting the former champion is "a priority" at this point in her career. Will that be the matchup she gets next after the best performance of her career? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question and give their thoughts on who Dern could face next from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Anthony Hernandez following his third-round stoppage win over Edmen Shahbazyan in the co-main event, Lupita Godinez after defeating Emily Ducote, along with Joaquin Buckley and Diego Ferreira following their highlight-reek knockout wins, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following Mackenzie Dern's one-sided win over Angela Hill in the main event of UFC Vegas 73, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Alexander K. Lee recap the action from Saturday's card at the UFC APEX. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mackenzie Dern will look to get back on track, while Angela Hill is out to spoil that storyline and pick up her third straight victory in the process in Saturday's UFC headliner in the strawweight division. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee discuss the UFC Vegas 73 main event between Dern and Hill, along with the stakes for both ladies, and if this is a do-or-die fight for Dern as it relates to her championship hopes. Additionally, other bouts on the card will be discussed, including the co-main event between Edmen Shahbazyan and Anthony Hernandez, the low-key banger fight at the UFC's return to the APEX, take some viewer questions, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler are expected to fight following the airing this upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter, the big questions seem to be when will that fight take place, and will it happen before the end of this year? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses his confidence levels as to when the fight could happen, especially since a lot of the year's pay-per-view events have been announced or targeted. Additionally, listener questions include Francis Ngannou's deal with the PFL, why the PFL's next 12-18 months could be the most interesting story in all of MMA, the UFC middleweight and lightweight divisions, what things could look like if the PFL and Bellator were to actually merge, the UFC's return to Boston in August, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou ended his MMA free agency as the former UFC heavyweight champion signed a new deal with the PFL. While there are still more questions that need to be answered, it appears this move has the potential to be a game changer for the sport. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to Ngannou's next move, and discuss things from different angles, including some of the remaining questions we have. Additionally, topics include Dana White announcing a bunch of big fights for the upcoming UFC 291 and UFC 292 events — including Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje 2 for the vacant BMF title in Salt Lake City — Saturday's UFC Vegas 73 card headlined by Mackenzie Dern vs. Angela Hill, the new 'McGregor Forever' documentary series on Netflix featuring Conor McGregor, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and José Youngs. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje will battle for the second time inside the octagon in the main event of UFC 291 on July 29 in Salt Lake City for the BMF title. While the premise is there, why is the BMF title on the line, and should the UFC have been more creative with it if they were going to slap a gimmick championship belt on a fight that doesn't need it? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Dana White's announcement of that massive bout in the lightweight division, along with the rest of the revealed lineup, along with the UFC 292 announcement for Boston in August. Additionally, topics include Francis Ngannou's new deal with the PFL, his boxing options, the potential short turnaround for the Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus Du Plessis winner to face Israel Adesanya in September, Alex Pereira vs. Jan Blachowicz at 205 pounds, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC Vegas 73 takes place this Saturday headlined by a strawweight showdown between Mackenzie Dern and Angela Hill, and you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back to break it all down. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show with a recap of UFC Charlotte before diving into the lackluster card that is UFC Vegas 73. Highlights include debate about the main event, dissension on a couple of other main card fights, and a slew of technical difficulties. But things do get spiced up down the stretch as Conner and Jed react live to the breaking news about UFC 291 and the return of the BMF Belt. Tune in for Episode 46 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou has not only found a new home, but he spoke with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour about some of the particulars of his massive deal with the PFL, the naysayers about his free agency, other promoters having their say on his free agency after parting ways with the UFC, and more. While Tuesday was officially a massive win for both Ngannou and the PFL, there are still lingering questions surrounding it all. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Steven Marrocco react to the news and Ngannou's appearance on The MMA Hour, reveal their long-term questions for both the former UFC heavyweight champion and the PFL, the boxing side of the equation, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Steven Marrocco: @MMAFightingSM Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Semana agitada entre os pesos pesados no MMA, e o Trocação Franca recebe Junior Cigano para dissecar os detalhes do histórico acordo de Francis Ngannou com a PFL, que lhe garante milhões e caminho livre para lutar boxe. O podcast entrevista ainda Jailton Malhadinho e Johnny Walker, que brilharam no UFC Charlotte, e Diego Ferreira, que volta ao octógono no próximo sábado. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It's a busy week for heavyweights in MMA, and Trocação Franca welcomes Junior dos Santos to dissect everything about Francis Ngannou’s historic deal with PFL, which guarantees him millions and a free path to boxing. The podcast also features interviews with UFC sensation Jailton Almeida, light heavyweight talent Johnny Walker, and returning lightweight Diego Ferreira. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou, free agent no more! The former UFC heavyweight champion is officially part of the PFL, with a new deal that makes him not only the most famous fighter on the roster, but an executive in partnership with the league. On this edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee answers all of your questions about the Ngannou-PFL alliance, including potential opponents, why fans were so hard on him during his free agency, whether this move might influence UFC stars to demand more from their promotion, how this might affect the PFL’s bottom line, and more. Plus, have we entered a world where Conor McGregor vs. Matt Brown is possible, what are Jailton Almeida’s limitations, who could be the breakout stars of UFC Vegas 73, what’s next for Ian Machado Garry, and where in the world is Khamzat Chimaev? You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee  Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The long wait for Francis Ngannou’s free agent decision is over as the former UFC heavyweight champion announced Tuesday that he is the newest member of the PFL roster and the chairman of the league’s PFL Africa expansion. Ngannou’s signing ends a 16-month wait to see where the Cameroonian-French star would take his talents. He fought his last fight at UFC 270 and then officially parted ways with the UFC this past January amid plenty of speculation as to what lay ahead for him: A mega boxing match with Tyson Fury? Would he simply head over to another top MMA promotion? Will he ever fight Jon Jones? Add in that Ngannou’s rift with the UFC was due to wanting several unprecedented contract stipulations and it’s fair to say that he was the most intriguing free agent in MMA history. MMA Fighting’s Alexander K. Lee and Jed Meshew react to the breaking news, grade the deal for Ngannou and the PFL, discuss whether criticism of Ngannou’s decisions were justified, and what this means for other UFC stars who may want to explore life outside of the octagon. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following a stunning first-round knockout over Court McGee at UFC Charlotte, Matt Brown returns to The Fighter vs. The Writer to discuss his victory and his record tying achievement. After more than a year out of action, Brown made a thunderous return to the octagon where he earned his 13th career knockout after putting McGee away with a single punch. The finish tied Brown with Derrick Lewis for the most knockouts in UFC history — a record he would love to break one day in the near future. Brown also discusses the possibility of fighting Conor McGregor after the Irish superstar talked about his record on Saturday and how he intends to break it before he retires from competition. In response, Brown said he’ll fight McGregor for that record — and it turns out he was serious about pursuing that matchup. Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin are joined by longtime friend and morning radio show host Jeremy Loper on the latest episode after previously co-hosting several podcasts together alongside UFC legend Mark “The Hammer” Coleman. We’ll discuss the rest of UFC Charlotte and what’s next for Brown on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is Jailton Almeida in a position where his next octagon appearance could be for some sort of UFC championship following his dominant first-round submission victory over Jairzinho Rozenstruik in the main event of UFC Charlotte? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective after Almeida's impressive win streak got extended to 14 with short work of Rozenstruik. Additionally, future matchups are made for Johnny Walker following his decision win over Anthony Smith in the co-main event, Ian Machado Garry after his breakout finish of Daniel Rodriguez in the welterweight featured matchup, along with fellow event winners Carlos Ulberg, Alex Morono, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jailton Almeida made it looks incredibly easy in his first UFC main event as he submitted Jairzinho Rozenstruik in the first round at UFC Charlotte. How close is the surging Almeida to a UFC heavyweight championship opportunity? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew react to Almeida's sensational performance in the main event, discuss where he goes from here, and what — if anything — did we learn about Almeida. Additionally, they discuss Johnny Walker's decision win over Anthony Smith in the co-main event and how much of an impact the performance has on the division, Ian Machado Garry's fantastic first-round finish of Daniel Rodriguez, the controversy surrounding the preliminary fights between Ji Yeon Kim and Mandy Bohm, along with Douglas Silva de Andrade vs. Cody Stamann, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jairzinho Rozenstruik will look to stop the incredible hype of Jailton Almeida and pull off a massive upset in the process at Saturday's UFC Charlotte fight card, but if he can't, how high up the ladder will Almeida go in the UFC's heavyweight division? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee get you ready for the UFC's return to ABC and discuss the main event matchup between Rozenstruik and Almeida, and what is at stake for both guys. Additionally, they'll discuss the co-main event between Anthony Smith and Johnny Walker, the intriguing featured bout in the welterweight division between Daniel Rodriguez and Ian Machado Garry, other notable storylines, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC President Dana White said after UFC 288 that he hopes to have Aljamain Sterling make a quick turnaround to defend his bantamweight title against Sean O'Malley at the UFC's return to Boston in August. With Sterling eyeing a fall date with O'Malley, if the UFC can't get that fight on the books, then what should be the main event for that card? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer that question and makes the case for Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington for the welterweight title in that spot. Additionally, listener questions include what could be next for Jamahal Hill and the light heavyweight title if Jiri Prochazka needs to miss a lot more time, Henry Cejudo vs. Merab Dvalishvili, UFC Charlotte storylines, Daniel Rodriguez vs. Ian Machado Garry, ONE Championship's U.S. debut, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling continues to add notches to his already impressive resume, this time, defeating former two-division UFC champ Henry Cejudo in the main event of UFC 288 this past Saturday. What did the win do for Sterling's legacy, and where does Cejduo go from here? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the fallout of the bantamweight title fight from this past weekend, along with the upcoming Sterling vs. Sean O'Malley fight that appears to be next. Additionally, topics include Belal Muhammad's big win over Gilbert Burns and if Dana White, or Colby Covington is more believable when it comes to Muhammad's next move, the low-key MVP from this past weekend, if the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz press conference from earlier this week changed excitement levels for the August boxing match, UFC Charlotte and Bellator Paris this weekend, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Tuesday, Jake Paul and Nate Diaz went face-to-face for the first time since their Aug. 5 boxing match was announced following a press conference in Dallas. With how everything went down, did the presser do anything to get you more excited for the fight? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the press conference, and gives his thoughts on how everything went down. Additionally, listener topics include the latest slate of UFC main events, Jiri Prochazka's potential return to fight Jamahal Hill, what a plan b could be for the light heavyweight division, the UFC 290 lineup in July, Amanda Nunes' legacy, the UFC's return to Boston in August, Merab Dvalishvili's viral theft of Sean O'Malley's jacket, Jailton Almeida vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik this Saturday at UFC Charlotte, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC Charlotte takes place this Saturday headlined by a heavyweight showdown between Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Jailton Almeida, and you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back to break it all down. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show with a recap where Conner finally got things on track for 2023, while Jed is forced to contemplate the very real possibility that he is a jinx. Then it's on to the UFC Charlotte where Conner and Jed end up in agreement about most of the fights this week. Highlights include Conner's continued love affair with Jailton Almeida, some Atlanta love for Karl Williams, and ChatGPt looking to go back-to-back on co-main event cashes. Plus, Jed teaches Conner about some very important trivia for this week's event. Tune in for Episode 45 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC welterweight contender Colby Covington joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss the latest on his upcoming title fight with Leon Edwards, eyeing August, why having the bout in Abu Dhabi doesn't make sense to him, having dinner with Dana White recently, Jorge Masvidal's retirement, Belal Muhammad's UFC 288 win over Gilbert Burns, wanting future fights with current lightweight champ Islam Makhachev and Israel Adesanya, what advice he would give to Aljamain Sterling following his win over Henry Cejudo, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trocação Franca dessa semana traz a história de Jailton Malhadinho, promessa do Brasil entre os pesos pesados que lidera o card de sábado do UFC em Charlotte, EUA, contra Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Malhadinho falou da vida, como trocou os gramados pelos ringues, o desaparecimento do irmão, altos e baixos no MMA e muito mais. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Johnny Walker, Douglas Lima, Diego Lopes e Tainara Lisboa. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca returns with the story of heavyweight sensation Jailton Almeida, who headlines Saturday’s UFC Charlotte event opposite Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Almeida discusses his life story, how he left soccer for fighting, losing his brother, the highs and lows of MMA, and much more. The podcast also features interviews with Johnny Walker, Douglas Lima, Diego Lopes, and Tainara Lisboa. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chaos reigns as Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by their good pals Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to tie up some loose ends for UFC 288, debate where Henry Cejudo falls in the bantamweight division after his split decision loss around (5:36), whether Cejudo vs. Merab is the next move around (25:33), make sense of AK's obscene disrespect for Aljamain Sterling in the pound-for-pound ranks around (29:43), plus Belal Muhammad's rise into the welterweight top 5 around (42:15). Then, the gang dons their best Sean Shelby cosplay to rank the top 3 most interesting opponents for a Jon Jones retirement fight around (53:25). Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling defeated Henry Cejudo in the main event of UFC 288 this past Saturday to retain his bantamweight championship, and becoming the first champion in the division to defend the belt three consecutive times. Sterling is now on a collision course with Sean O'Malley in a massive bout at 135. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck recaps UFC 288, along with Sterling's big win over Cejudo and how the fight was scored, and the upcoming matchup with O'Malley. Additionally, listener questions include Belal Muhammad's win over Gilbert Burns, if he'll get a title shot in his next fight, Yan Xiaonan's finish of Jessica Andrade and a potential championship bout with Zhang Weili, Kron Gracie's performance, Movsar Evloev's future, and more. Plus, Bellator middleweight Fabian Edwards joins the program to preview his Bellator Paris main event matchup with Gegard Mousasi, discuss his thoughts on champion Johnny Eblen, his brother Leon Edwards' mindset when it comes to a potential fight with Colby Covington, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following UFC 288 this past weekend, Alan Jouban and Cory Sandhagen join The Fighter vs. The Writer to break down everything that unfolded in New Jersey. Aljamain Sterling successful defended his bantamweight title with a split decision win over Henry Cejudo and Jouban will detail what he believes went right and went wrong for both fighters. Jouban will also give his thoughts on Sean O’Malley’s chances to dethrone Sterling as the next title contender at 135 pounds. We’ll also discuss Belal Muhammad’s win over Gilbert Burns and his place in the welterweight division after going undefeated in his past 10 consecutive fights. Plus Jouban reacts to Kron Gracie’s bizarre performance and what should come next for him. As for Sandhagen, he’ll give his report from sitting cageside at UFC 288 and what he thought about Sterling getting the job done against the former two-division champion. He’ll also react to Cejudo calling for a fight against Merab Dvalishvili — the exact opponent Sandhagen has also been targeting. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While Aljamain Sterling will likely have his next UFC bantamweight title defense this summer — at least, according to Dana White — following his UFC 288 main event win, where does Henry Cejudo go after falling short in his comeback bid? Was that the final fight for the storied career of "Triple C"? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question. And if Cejudo were to stick around, what would be the matchup to make? Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Belal Muhammad after his dominant decision victory in the co-main event, Gilbert Burns after being on the wrong end of the scorecards, Yan Xiaonan following her incredible finish of Jessica Andrade, along with Movsar Evloev, Charles Jourdain, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling made history on Saturday by becoming the first UFC bantamweight champion to defend their title three consecutive times in the main event of UFC 288, and spoiled the long-awaited return of former two-division champion Henry Cejudo in the process during the UFC's return to Newark, N.J. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Sterling's victory over Cejudo, discuss how they scored the 135-pound championship bout, if that was Cejudo's final fight, and the more-than-likely next championship bout between Sterling and Sean O'Malley. Additionally, topics include Belal Muhammad's dominant decision win over Gilbert Burns in the five-round co-main event, if Muhammad's next fight will actually be for the welterweight title, Yan Xiaonan's show-stealing finish of Jessica Andrade, Matt Frevola's massive stoppage win over Drew Dober, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 288's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 288 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsJojRyjzog Charles Jourdain vs. Kron Gracie (32:16) Jourdain defeats Gracie reaction (56:03) Opening Chronicles card packs part 1 (1:03:56) Movsar Evloev vs. Diego Lopes (1:08:00) Lopes nearly finishes armbar on Evloev in first (1:12:00) Lopes gets Evloev in trouble again (1:24:52) Lopes goes for last second submission for major upset (1:26:04) Evloev gets unanimous decision win (1:28:00) Opening Chronicles card packs part 2 (1:32:27) Jessica Andrade vs. Yan Xiaonan (1:44:10) Yan Xiaonan knocks out Jessica Andrade reaction (1:49:08) Xbox battle - Burns vs. Muhammad (1:54:52) Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad Reaction to Muhammad unanimous decision win and post-fight interview (2:38:40) Rob Font joins show (2:47:35) Font reacts to our reaction to his UFC 287 win over Adrian Yanez (2:48:24) Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo (2:54:25) Reaction to Sterling's split decision win (3:29:30) Reaction to Sterling's post-fight interview, face-to-face with Sean O'Malley (3:31:20) Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling puts his UFC bantamweight championship on the line against Henry Cejudo in the former two-division titleholder's first bout in over three years in the main event of Saturday's UFC 288 event. With so many burning questions on both sides, the fight's intrigue continues to grow. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and José Youngs get you ready for UFC 288 and discuss the Sterling vs. Cejudo main event, what is on the line besides championship gold, who needs the win more, where Cejudo would go with a loss, and more. Additionally, topics include the five-round co-main event between Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad, why the fight has created some mixed feelings amongst the team, other intriguing matchups, the low-key storylines and fights from the card, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the eve of UFC 288, the anticipation levels and the amount of questions continue to rise ahead of Aljamain Sterling's upcoming title defense against the returning Henry Cejudo, Gilbert Burns battling Belal Muhammad in the co-main event, and more. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers your questions about some of the burning storylines heading into Saturday's pay-per-view card in Newark, N.J. Additionally, listener questions include where Kron Gracie goes, win or lose, following his fight with Charles Jourain, Gracie's demeanor during the fight week, the UFC 289 lineup as it currently stands, the UFC's lightweight divisions, fantasy matchmaking a BKFC card using only UFC fighters, if there's anyone that can beat Jon Jones right now, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With BKFC stealing headlines this past weekend with BKFC 41, all eyes are now on a busy weekend in the MMA world — which included the UFC's next pay-per-view offering. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the fallout of BKFC 41, Mike Perry's big win over Luke Rockhold, and the future of the promotion. Additionally, topics include the UFC 288 fight card, the main event for the bantamweight title between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo, the stakes in the Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad co-main event, Francis Ngannou's fighting future and current free agency status, Jon Jones saying he'll stick around for a fight with Ngannou after he faces Stipe Miocic, ONE Championship's U.S. debut on Friday, and more. This week, host Mike Heck returns to moderate the matchup between MMA Fighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti and Jed Meshew. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 288 going down in just two days, the winner of the bantamweight championship main event between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejduo will likely already have his next fight set with Sean O'Malley. But where does the loser of that fight go, and what if Cejudo is the one that doesn't get his hand raised after three years away? On an-all new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck returns to the host's chair to discuss the potential fallout of Saturday's headliner between Sterling and Cejudo, as well as fantasy matchmaking the co-main event between Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC having "top-heavy" pay-per-view cards coming up over the next month, Mike Perry's star power with BKFC following his BKFC 41 win over Luke Rockhold, where BKFC can go in the future with a potential TV deal upcoming, Jon Jones suggesting his fight with Stipe Miocic will be his last, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC play-by-play voice Jon Anik joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview Saturday's UFC 288 event, the main event between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo, the burning questions surrounding Cejudo's return, Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad, Nate Diaz's incident in New Orleans and his scheduled boxing match with Jake Paul, Jon Jones' future, and more. *Note: Interview took place prior to removal of Bryce Mitchell from UFC 288, and Deiveson Figueiredo from UFC 290. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former UFC competitor Jorge Masvidal joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss Nate Diaz's recent incident in New Orleans, the UFC 288 matchup between Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad, Dana White being steadfast about rival Colby Covington getting a title shot next, his Gamebred Bareknuckle card this Friday in Sunrise, Fla., Roy Nelson's return to competition, and more. *Note: Interview was done prior to Panthers defeating the Bruins in seven games. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's another UFC pay-per-view weekend and so you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down all their favorite plays for UFC 288 and the bantamweight title fight between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show with a brief recap of UFC Vegas 72, lamenting a dreadful flyweight under loss, before diving into the 14-fight card that is UFC 288. The biggest topic of conversation is the title fight and Henry Cejudo's chances at overcoming a jarring statistical trend, but the boys also get into the five-round co-main event between Belal Muhammad and Gilbert Burns, the return of Kron Gracie, and of course, a heavyweight over and a flyweight under. Tune in for Episode 44 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe pela primeira vez a lenda Kron Gracie, que retorna ao octógono após quase quatro anos sábado, em Nova Jérsei. O filho de Rickson abre o jogo sobre o tempo parado, o que mudou em sua vida e o que gostaria de ver diferente no UFC, as lições contra Cub Swanson, o duelo com Charles Jourdain, e muito mais. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Marlon Moraes, Jessica Bate-Estaca, Roberto Satoshi e Virna Jandiroba. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca welcomes for the first time the legend Kron Gracie, who returns to the octagon after nearly four years this weekend in New Jersey. The son of Rickson opens up on his time away, what changed in his life and what changes he’d like to see in the UFC, lessons learned against Cub Swanson, his upcoming clash with Charles Jourdain, and more. The podcast also features interviews with Marlon Moraes, Jessica Andrade, Roberto Satoshi, and Virna Jandiroba. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It’s BKFC’s world, we’re just living in it. Yes, UFC Vegas 72 happened and Song Yadong shined, but it was hard to beat the star power of BKFC 42, which featured Mike Perry, Luke Rockhold, Eddie Alvarez, Chad Mendes and, somehow, Conor McGregor! What’s next for the leading bare-knuckle promotion? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee ponders what other MMA stars would be an ideal fit for the BKFC and whether Gamebred Promotions’ upcoming event this Friday can benefit from the bare-knuckle buzz. Additionally, topics include where Kamaru Usman now stands in the contender line, whether Israel Adesanya reclaiming his throne takes the air out of the middleweight division, thoughts on the main event and potential sleeper fight at UFC 288, Paul Craig moving to 185, Amanda Lemos in the title picture, what’s going on with Francis Ngannou, media row randos, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 288 just days away, reigning bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling and co-main event fighters Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad join The Fighter vs. The Writer. Sterling will address his upcoming fight against Henry Cejudo while revealing that he is “very likely” done at bantamweight with two more fights as he plans to move up to 145 pounds with hopes that his friend and teammate Merab Dvalishvili will get a shot at the bantamweight title once he’s gone. Meanwhile, Burns and Muhammad will document how they ended up in the co-main event on less than two weeks’ notice after UFC 288 lost the fight between Beneil Dariush and Charles Oliveira. Burns details his decision to fight again after just recently stating that he was only interested in a title shot for his next bout while Muhammad talks Colby Covington and his hope to earn his own opportunity to compete for UFC gold with a win on Saturday. All this and much more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Song Yadong made a statement on Saturday, putting on a commanding performance to deny the surging Ricky Simon a jump up in the rankings. Where does Song go after UFC Vegas 72 as he looks to make his own moves in the loaded bantamweight division? Also, the BKFC may have stolen the show with their Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold main event, which included a post-fight appearance from the one and only Conor McGregor. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and special guest Jed Meshew discuss what should be next for Song and whether he may have earned the fight everyone else is afraid to take. Plus where does Mike Perry after BKFC 41 as he continues his unbeaten bare-knuckle run. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Caio Borralho, Rodolfo Vieira, Fernando Padilla, Marcos Rogerio de Lima, Trey Waters, and more following the promotion's latest card at the APEX. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Steven Marracco, and E. Casey Leydon react to Eddie Alvarez's thrilling split decision win in his BKFC debut, Chad Mendes' retirement, Mike Perry's strange TKO win over Luke Rockhold, Conor McGregor's appearance inside the BKFC, and more. The three also look back on Song Yadong's fifth-round KO win over Ricky Simón in the main event of UFC Vegas 72. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Steven Marrocco: @MMAFightingSM Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Mike Perry and Luke Rockhold running wild and enchanting hearts and minds, is this the rare weekend where the UFC doesn’t have the best event of the combat sports slate? MMA Fighting’s Shaun Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew discuss Saturday’s BKFC 41 offering, the hilarity of Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold, plus the rest of a surprisingly compelling card that features Chad Mendes vs. Eddie Alvarez, the return of “Big” Ben Rothwell, and much more. The crew also hits upon UFC Vegas 72, the stakes in Song Yadong vs. Ricky Simon, what’s next for the winner, Caio Borralho’s continued existence in UFC co-main events, any low-key bangers from the card, and more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It sounds like the people have decided: Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold at BKFC 42 is the fight of the weekend. The UFC veterans have engaged in some truly hilarious shenanigans in the lead-up to their bare-knuckle battle and all that’s left to see is if this freak show fight turns out as freaky as advertised. That’s a fitting discussion for this Free-For-All-Friday edition of Heck of a Morning with guest host Alexander K. Lee, who answers questions not only about BKFC 42 and UFC Vegas 72, but a slew of random topics including how the remainder of the NBA Playoffs is likely to play out (and who you’ll see in the Finals), adventures in vegetarian cooking, and the brilliance of Paul Thomas Anderson, as well as fighting business like whether a Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad stinker will remove both men from the UFC welterweight title picture, what pair of friends do we wish we’d seen meet inside the cage, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nate Diaz made headlines yet again this weekend when the Stockton native found himself in a Bourbon Street Brawl that resulted in one would-be influencer getting choked out in the streets. Mike Heck is off this week so Jed Meshew steps in to host an all-new edition of Between the Links, where the panel discusses Nate Diaz’s street fighting and pending arrest, plus, does this put Nate’s fight with Jake Paul in jeopardy? Additionally, the crew debates Sergei Pavlovich’s big win at UFC Vegas 71, Patchy Mix’s place in the bantamweight hierarchy, Gervonta Davis' big win over Ryan Garcia, and the weekend ahead with BKFC 41 and UFC Vegas 72, and more. Guest host Jed Meshew moderates the matchup between MMAFighting’s José Youngs and Morning Kombat’s Brian Campbell. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The biggest fight this weekend might not be happening inside the octagon. With respect to UFC Vegas 72 headliners Song Yadong and Ricky Simon, the BKFC is presenting a buzzworthy main event of its own pitting Mike Perry against Luke Rockhold on Saturday. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee looks ahead at a busy combat sports weekend that includes the UFC, the BKFC, Cage Warriors, RIZIN, and more. Additionally, topics include what is the one main event you must watch on Saturday, why the UFC is putting Dricus Du Plessis' title shot at risk in a matchup with Robert Whittaker, breaking UFC Vegas 72 down in the most positive light possible, the BKFC 42 co-main event between Chad Mendes and Eddie Alvarez, the meteoric rise of Salt Papi, whether Rose Namajunas and Israel Adesanya make for the more compelling title chaser, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Deiveson Figueiredo mudou os planos, mas nem tudo saiu como ele esperava. Se antes subiria de categoria, agora fica nos moscas, mas não poderá enfrentar Manel Kape no dia 8 de julho. O podcast Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe o “Deus da Guerra” para entender melhor essa história, e entrevista a dupla Rodolfo Vieira e Marcos Pezão antes de suas lutas nesse sábado, pelo UFC Vegas 72. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Deiveson Figueiredo's plans have changed — but not everything went as expected. Figueiredo was moving up to bantamweight, and then he was not, and now he can’t even fight Manel Kape on July 8. Trocação Franca welcomes Figueiredo to understand the situation, and also chats with Rodolfo Vieira and Marcos Rogerio de Lima ahead of Saturday’s UFC Vegas 72 card. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC keeps right on rolling this Saturday with another return to the Apex, headlined by a bantamweight prospect matchup between Song Yadong and Ricky Simon, so the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down their best bets. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show by recapping UFC Vegas 71 as both guys are starting to build a little momentum after a tough start to the year. Then it's right into UFC Vegas 72 talk with Conner keeping things tight this weekend, while Jed has a whole pile of gimmick bets including ChatGPT's first ever underdog play, plus a Cheaters Always Win parlay. Tune in for Episode 43 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We’re coming off a mega busy combat sports weekend with UFC, Bellator, boxing and yes, influencer boxing galore. Sergei Pavlovich continued his run to a heavyweight title shot, Patchy Mix confirmed that he’s one of the best in the world at 135 pounds, Gervonta Davis won his highly anticipated match with Ryan Garcia, and Nate Diaz got into all kinds of trouble. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee reacts to the main event of UFC Vegas 71 and what could be next for Curtis Blaydes after falling short in another big opportunity. Additionally, topics include whether Garcia quit against Davis, if Blaydes has hit the end of the road in the UFC, the most disappointing what-could-have-been careers, whether the UFC should be rooting for Aljamain Sterling or Henry Cejudo to win the UFC 288 main event, the possibility of Bellator putting together grand prix tournaments for its flyweight and featherweight women, what’s the most exciting BKFC matchup this weekend, and more. Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2023 NFL Draft set to take place this week, it's once again time for the MMA Fighting team to don the hats of the premier combat sports promotions in the world and select the 35 fighters they would most want to have on roster to build a promotion around. Listen as Jed Meshew guides the action and the staff drafts seven fighters to their respective organizations: The UFC, Bellator, PFL, ONE Championship, and BKFC. Other promoters include Shaun Al-Shatti, Mike Heck, Damon Martin, and Alexander K. Lee. Who will be the first overall pick? And which drafter is best set up for the next five years? Tune in to find out. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ahead of perhaps the biggest BKFC card in history, The Fighter vs. The Writer will be headlined by three of the fighters competing on Saturday including both main event athletes as Luke Rockhold and Mike Perry join the show. Rockhold will fight for the first time since retiring but then securing his UFC release so he could pursue a career outside the octagon. He will now compete in bare-knuckle for the first time ever while taking on a BKFC veteran in Perry. Rockhold will address his decision to return to action while also discussing his issues with the UFC and hopes that more athletes will stand up for themselves when it comes to money and opportunities. Perry also joins the show to talk about the fight with Rockhold and his expectations clashing with a former UFC champion who has never fought bare-knuckle previously. Perry will also react to the recent news that Nate Diaz will fight Jake Paul in a boxing match as well as Diaz’s wild weekend filled with street fights in New Orleans. Finally, Mendes joins the show to preview his fight with Eddie Alvarez and he’ll address if this will possibly be the final bout of his entire career. Mendes explains why he decided to come back in the first place and the conflicted feelings he’s had about continuing on past the matchup against Alvarez. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sergei Pavlovich destroyed Curtis Blaydes in the first round of their heavyweight main event battle in Las Vegas this past Saturday, which led to Pavlovich calling for a title shot against Jon Jones. While the fight could be interesting, it's unlikely to happen, but that doesn't mean Pavlovich can't get a title fight in his next appearance. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what could be next for Pavlovich following his massive win at UFC Vegas 71, and explain why he probably won't be facing Jones anytime soon. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Bruno Silva following his first-round finish of Brad Tavares in the middleweight co-main event, along with fellow winners Iasmin Lucindo, Jeremiah Wells, Montel Jackson, and more following the promotion's latest card at the APEX. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The MMA Fighting crew gets you set for Saturday's UFC Vegas 71 event, which will be headlined by Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich, along with Bellator 295, which will be capped off by the outstanding bantamweight grand prix finale between Raufeon Stots and Patchy Mix. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The mystery behind a new UFC 288 co-main event was finally solved on Thursday night when UFC President Dana White revealed that Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad will take that spot on the May 6 pay-per-view in a five-round welterweight matchup. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the bout being set for the UFC's return to Newark, N.J., and what the stakes are for both men in the matchup. Additionally, topics include Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush officially moving to the co-main event spot of UFC 289 in June, other main event announcements from White on Thursday, the UFC sticking around the APEX for a bunch of cards over the next couple of months, Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia, what could be next for Shavkat Rakhmonov, a potential Israel Adesanya vs. Dricus Du Plessis fight, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Eric Jackman, and Damon Martain join forces to preview the highly-anticipated boxing match between Gervonta 'Tank' Davis and 'King' Ryan Garcia. Will Davis' experience be enough to halt the hype train of Garcia? Can Garcia's speed neutralize Davis' much-vaunted knockout power? Who will become the face of boxing when it's all said and done? These are just some of the questions the three will answer for you ahead of the catchweight fight inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin  Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With so much going on in the combat sports world this weekend, as well as this past weekend with UFC Kansas City, the MMA Fighting crew decided to turn the programming of the show to you, the live viewers for a special Q&A edition of Between the Links. This week, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and José Youngs take your questions about Max Holloway's big win over Arnold Allen, this Saturday's UFC Vegas 71 event headlined by Curtis Blaydes vs. Sergei Pavlovich and what the stakes could be, Bellator's doubleheader this weekend with Bellator 294 headlined by Liz Carmouche vs. DeAnna Bennett 2 on Friday, and Bellator 295 headlined by the bantamweight grand prix finale between Raufeon Stots and Patchy Mix on Saturday, Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia this Saturday in Las Vegas, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Since Francis Ngannou parted ways with the UFC, everybody has been wondering what his next move will be — will he scratch that itch to box against a big name, or will he immediately continue with his MMA journey? That question remains just as difficult to answer months later. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Ngannou's free agency, if he'll box next, and if an eventual return to the UFC is possible. Additionally, listener topics include what the new UFC 288 co-main event could end up being, the UFC Vegas 71 main event between Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich, the UFC's flyweight division, Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia, Muhammad Mokaev's social media misfire calling out Brandon Royval, Cris Cyborg's MMA future, Amanda Nunes vs. Julianna Peña 3, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC keeps right on rolling this Saturday with a return to the Apex, headlined by a probable heavyweight title eliminator between Sergei Pavlovich and Curtis Blaydes, so the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down their best bets. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show by recapping UFC Kansas City before diving into their bets for UFC Vegas 71. Conor spreads his bets out this week, with a number of singles and a few parlays, while Jed continues to enjoy the chaos of Heavyweight Overs, plus the ChatGPT Bet of the Week. Then, before closing shop, the boys also take a shallow dive into this weekend's Bellator double header, including a Wolfpack Wager, and a few plays on the highly anticipated Tank Davis vs. Ryan Garcia boxing match. Tune in for Episode 42 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Charles Oliveira being scratched from his matchup with Beneil Dariush at UFC 288, is it too risky for the UFC to push that matchup back to UFC 289 on June 10 with Oliveira's injury, or should they pivot to a new fight between Dariush and Dustin Poirier instead? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck makes the case as to why the UFC should do whatever they can do have Poirier step in to face Dariush in June, and how this division is looking right now with plans to have Islam Makahchev defend his title in October. Additionally, listener topics include Max Holloway's win over Arnold Allen in the main event of UFC Kansas City, the stakes in Saturday's UFC Vegas 71 main event between Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich, Song Yadong vs. Ricky Simon being moved to the UFC Vegas 72 headliner, the UFC 290 fight card as it stands, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Trocação Franca dessa semana traz entrevistas exclusivas com o passado, presente e futuro. O ex-campeão do UFC e lenda do MMA José Aldo fala da nova carreira no boxe e o desentendimento com Conor McGregor. Rafaela Silva, campeã olímpica de judô na Rio 2016, fala da curta experiência treinando MMA. E Alexandre Pantoja analisa o confronto com Brandon Moreno pelo cinturão dos moscas do UFC, marcado para julho. Trocação Franca brings past, present, and future on this week’s episode. Former UFC champion and MMA legend Jose Aldo discusses his boxing career and the recent beef with Conor McGregor, Olympic gold medalist Rafaela Silva opens up on her experience training MMA, and flyweight contender Alexandre Pantoja breaks down his upcoming clash with UFC champion Brandon Moreno in Las Vegas. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with Matt Brown and Damon Martin discussing Max Holloway’s big win over Arnold Allen and what that means for his future at featherweight. Holloway earned a decision win to get back on track after falling to UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in his previous outing. We’ll also talk about the news that the UFC wants to book Jon Jones against Stipe Miocic at Madison Square Garden in New York, presumably in November. If that fight gets finalized, does Miocic immediately become the biggest threat to Jones at heavyweight or is there still someone even better suited to hand Jones a defeat? We’ll also discuss the new fight announced between Jake Paul and Nate Diaz. Is Diaz biting off more than he can chew by taking on a fighter who will have a significant size advantage not to mention Paul’s experience in the boxing ring? All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Max Holloway stifled Arnold Allen's attempt to earn a title shot in the loaded UFC featherweight division in the main event of UFC Kansas City this past Saturday. The former champion was able to get back on track and called out another veteran for a showdown in the near future, but is a matchup between Holloway and The Korean Zombie the way to go, or is there a better option for "Blessed"? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Edson Barboza following his vicious knockout of Billy Quarantillo in the co-main event, Pedro Munhoz after his veteran-savvy performance against Chris Gutierrez, along with fellow main card winners Azamat Murzakanov, Ion Cutelaba, Rafa Garcia, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Max Holloway and Arnold Allen put on a highly competitive five-round main event to cap off Saturday's UFC Kansas City event, but in the end, it was the former champion who was able to outlast the surging contender to get back on track. Following the UFC's return to Missouri, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee react to Holloway's unanimous decision win over a game Allen, the scoring of the 25-minute battle, and where Holloway goes from here at 145-pounds. Additionally, they discuss Edson Barboza's incredible knockout of Billy Quarantillo in the co-main event, experience continuing to play a major factor in main card matchups, Brandon Royval's quick finish of Matheus Nicolau and if that puts him in a position to fight the winner of Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja for the flyweight title next, Zak Cummings and Ed Herman's dual retirement, Clay Guida's fake retirement, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Max Holloway and Arnold Allen are set to do battle in a pivotal main event matchup in the UFC featherweight division. The stakes are incredibly high for Allen, and as the betting underdog, will he be able to get over one last hump en route to a title shot? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee discuss Saturday's UFC Kansas City event, and are scheduled to be joined by UFC featherweight Calvin Kattar as he gives his insight to the Holloway vs. Allen matchup. Additionally, topics will include the Edson Barboza vs. Billy Quarantillo fight, the Matheus Nicolau vs. Brandon Royval flyweight bout being buried on the prelims, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Max Holloway returns this Saturday in a pivotal featherweight main event against Arnold Allen at UFC Kansas City. With "Blessed" already suffering three losses to current champ Alexander Volkanovski, what does a win do for his place at 145? And on the other end, what if he is not victorious this weekend? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes for Holloway in the scheduled five-round contest with Allen. Additionally, listener questions include the current UFC 290 lineup, if the UFC should add another title fight to the International Fight Week card, the cancelled UFC Vegas 72 main event between Arman Tsarukyan and Renato Moicano, options for Bryce Mitchell at UFC 288 with Jonathan Pearce being forced to withdraw from the May pay-per-view card, a potential Israel Adesanya vs. Dricus Du Plessis fight, the NBA playoffs, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards speaks to Damon Martin about his win over Kamaru Usman, Jorge Masvidal retiring and his regrets that fight never happened. He'll also address his timeline to return to action while responding to Colby Covington, who recently claimed that Edwards would be stripped of his title if they don't fight next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya brutally knocked out Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 287 this past Saturday, and while many believe a third UFC fight between the two should happen next, Pereira has changed the narrative a bit. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Adesanya's incredible highlight against his longtime rival, Pereira moving up to 205, and what's next for the once again champion. Additionally, they'll discuss fallout of the rest of the UFC 287 card, Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz set for the boxing ring in Dallas on Aug. 5 and what the interest levels seem to be, Saturday's UFC Kansas City card — most notably the main event between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen, and the stakes for both men in the highly anticipated featherweight bout — and more. This week, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew banter about the top stories in combat sports and beyond. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Pereira is moving on from his rivalry with Israel Adesanya — at least, for now — following his UFC 287 loss as he's made the decision to make the jump up to the UFC's light heavyweight division. What does it all mean, and have we overlooked a key piece of this equation when it comes to this situation? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Pereira's announcement that he's moving to 205, and if he could find his way into a light heavyweight title fight with Jamahal Hill immediately if Jiri Prochazka is not ready to return to action in quick order. Additionally, topics include what could be next for Adesanya at middleweight, if the UFC should go right to Adesanya vs. Khamzat Chimaev, where Dricus Du Plessis fits in this discussion, Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja heading to UFC 290 in July for the flyweight title, the UFC Kansas City main event between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Wednesday, news broke that Nate Diaz and Jake Paul will finally settle their longstanding feud when the pair meet in a 185-pound boxing match on August 5, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Tex. Co-promoted by Diaz's Real Fight, Inc. and Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, the bout will air live on DAZN Pay-Per-View and features as $60.00 price tag. Was this the right step for Diaz and Paul? Who will win? What comes next? And most importantly, just how well will this do from a financial perspective? MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew, Steven Marrocco, and Damon Martin react to all this and more as we all start to prepare for what is likely to be the biggest event of the summer. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Steven Marrocco @MMAFightingSM Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the UFC headed to Kansas City this week, the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down their favorite bets for Max Holloway vs. Arnold Allen, and the rest of the fight card. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show by recapping the madness that was UFC 287, and Israel Adesanya's remarkable title victory, before Connor makes a tragic announcement about his gambling future. Then the fellas dive into UFC Kansas City, which Jed will be in attendance for, taking A LOT of shots on underdogs this weekend, plus the return of Flyweight Unders and the hottest new thing in MMA betting: the ChatGPT Bet of the Week. Tune in for Episode 41 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Israel Adesanya finally holding a win over Alex Pereira, what's next for the middleweight division? Mike Heck and Jed Meshew join co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee following another wild weekend at UFC 287 to debate where Pereira falls in the new-look middleweight pecking order around (4:30) and rank the top 5 options for Adesanya's next fight around (18:07), as well as nail down the top 3 career highlights for Jorge Masvidal around (53:20). Then, the gang says hello to a few new faces around (1:09:15) and pours one out for the names we lost this rankings cycle around (1:15:20). Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Mike Heck @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Poatan perdeu o cinturão do UFC para Israel Adesanya em Miami e muitas questões ainda pairam no ar com relação ao seu próximo passo no MMA, e o Trocação Franca debate a luta e o futuro com o peso-médio Caio Borralho. O podcast entrevista, ainda, o campeão Patrício Pitbull, que busca fazer história no Bellator, e a peso-palha Bruna Brasil, estreante da semana no UFC Kansas City. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Alex Pereira lost the UFC middleweight title to Israel Adesanya in Miami and many questions have yet to be answered regarding the next step of his career. Today, Trocação Franca breaks down the top UFC 287 clashes and a lot more with rising 185-pounder Caio Borralho. The podcast also features interviews with Bellator champion Patricio Pitbull and UFC Kansas City newcomer Bruna Brasil. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesnya made his moment count when he slayed the dragon that is Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 287 this past Saturday. While the finish was emphatic, does that mean there needs to be space between a third fight between the longtime rivals, or should the UFC get right back to it? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck states the case as to why Adesanya vs. Pereira 3 should happen next unless the latter himself says that he's moving up to 205, and why no other matchup makes sense at the moment should Pereira have one more cut to 185 in him. Additionally, topics include Gilbert Burns' win over Jorge Masvidal, Rob Font knocking out Adrian Yanez, Khamzat Chimaev's next opponent, where Dricus Du Plessis sits in the middleweight title picture, Amanda Nunes vs. Julianna Peña 3 being announced as the main event for UFC 289, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following an eventful UFC 287 this past weekend, The Fighter vs. The Writer with Matt Brown and Damon Martin returns to discuss everything that unfolded. In the main event, Israel Adesanya exacted his revenge with a brutal second-round knockout over Alex Pereira to regain the middleweight title and become a two-time UFC champion. By vanquishing arguably his greatest foe, Adesanya cemented himself among the best 185-pound fighters but where does he now rank with the greatest fighters in the history of the sport? Does Adesanya already deserve to be mentioned alongside names like Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva and Demetrious Johnson? We’ll also discuss Gilbert Burns’ win and Jorge Masvidal announcing his retirement afterwards. Masvidal called it a career after 20 years in the sport and we’ll talk about the legacy he leaves behind now that he’s hung up his gloves for good. We’ll also give our picks for the upcoming UFC Kansas City main event between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya brutally knocked out his arch-nemesis Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 287 to re-capture the UFC middleweight title. With Pereira having three total wins to Adesanya's one throughout their rivalry — which includes a win each inside the octagon — should they run it back next to settle it once and for all, or is it something we can wait on? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective following Saturday's card in Miami. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Gilbert Burns after defeating the now-retired Jorge Masvidal in the co-main event, Rob Font following his impressive first-round knockout of Adrian Yanez, Kevin Holland after stopping Santiago Ponzinibbio, Christian Rodriguez following his upset win over Raul Rosas Jr., and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya put an exclamation point on his first victory against longtime nemesis Alex Pereira as he regained the UFC middleweight title with an absolutely vicious knockout to cap off UFC 287 in Miami. Following the event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Adesanya's incredible finish, his post-fight speech, if going right back to another matchup is the way to go, Dana White suggesting Pereira may move to 205, and more. Additionally, they discuss Gilbert Burns' win over Jorge Masvidal in the co-main event, Masvidal announcing his retirement, and what could be next for Burns, Rob Font's sensational finish of Adrian Yanez, 18-year-old Raul Rosas Jr. suffering his first career loss to Christian Rodriguez, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 287's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 287 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EQwkAb-gDbc Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya will once again battle for the UFC middleweight championship of the world, and for perhaps, the final time. Ahead of the fourth combat meeting between Pereira and Adesanya in the main event of UFC 287, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew discuss the matchup, where each guy goes with a victory, and what changes can be made on both sides. Additionally, they'll discuss the stakes in the welterweight co-main event between Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal, if Dana White's plans for champ Leon Edwards could change based on the result, the rest of the stacked main card, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dana White made it very clear that the UFC 287 press conference was going to go on his terms, no matter what interesting storylines had been created throughout the build to Saturday's event in Miami. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to White's somewhat odd behavior at Thursday's presser. Additionally, listener topics include prediction for UFC 287 Fight of the Night, Israel Adesanya's legacy, Jorge Masvidal being the biggest underdog on the entire fight card against Gilbert Burns, Alex Pereira's longevity at middleweight, Dana White's odd behavior at the UFC 287 press conference, Amanda Ribas vs. Maycee Barber fight being targeted for June 24, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With so much going on in the world of combat sports, and with a massive UFC 287 event just days away, this week on Between the Links, we are turning the programming and topics over to you. On a special Q&A edition of BTL, the panel will take your questions about Saturday's UFC pay-per-view event in Miami, the main event for the middleweight title between Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya, Jorge Masvidal's homecoming fight with the stakes as high as they can be against Gilbert Burns, the fallout from events in the combat landscape this past weekend, Gamebred Boxing 4, the new merger between the UFC and WWE, and more. This week, host Mike Heck will be joined by Eric "New York Ric" Jackman to answer your questions about the biggest stories in the sport. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 287 just two days away, the level of anticipation continues to grow when it comes to the entire card — but mostly in regards to the main event between Alex Pereira and Israel Adesnya, and the co-headliner between Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the middleweight championship rematch ahead of Saturday's card in Miami, and if Adesanya is due for a win against his longtime foe. Additionally, topics include if Masvidal is being severely overlooked ahead of his matchup with Burns, Masvidal and Kevin Holland being separated by security on Wednesday, Rob Font vs. Adrian Yanez, what could be the Fight of the Night for UFC 287, UFC Charlotte changing main events, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fury FC 76 produced a viral clip on March 24 that saw Gianni Vazquez go unconscious due to a beautiful triangle choke applied by Edgar Chairez in the main event, but that wasn't how the fight ended. Instead, the referee allowed the bout to continue and Chairez transitioned to an armbar, which woke Vazquez up, only for him to pass out a second time before eventually mustering up the strength to tap out. On the second installment of Inside the Highlight, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck sits down with both fighters, along with Fury FC President Eric Garcia, commentator and UFC welterweight Alex Morono, and veteran referee and Bellator color analyst John McCarthy to break down the frightening ending to the bout from all angles, their reactions to the moment, the referee allowing the fight to continue, the aftermath, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a one week hiatus, the UFC returns with another pay-per-view this Saturday when Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya rematch in MMA (and compete against other for the fourth time) in the main event of UFC 278, and so the No Bets Barred boys are back to discuss. This week, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew are joined by an old favorite, Tony Calatayud of Dan Le Batard Show fame to break down all the best action at UFC 278, and there is almost immediate dissension in the ranks as opinions differ on the the main event, and who will win this fourth fight between Pereira and Adesanya. The rest of the breakdowns go similarly as there are a ton of live dogs this week and action abounds on all sides of the card. Then, to wrap things up, Jed introduced Tony to The Next Big Thing in MMA Gambling, the ChatGPT Bet. Tune in for Episode 40 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Tony Calatayud: @10DayTony Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Justin Gaethje discusses his recent win over Rafael Fiziev at UFC 286 and his expectations that a rematch against Dustin Poirier will be awaiting him next, especially with the chance to revisit their Fight of the Year from 2018. Gaethje will also respond to Michael Bisping after he criticized the UFC Hall of Famer for his commentary during the fight between Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman. Gaethje also details his future plans after hinting that he might not have much time left in the sport following his latest win. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jorge Masvidal finds himself in a very interesting position this Saturday in a hometown fight with Gilbert Burns at UFC 287, despite being on a three-fight skid. Could an upset win be enough to spoil arch-rival Colby Covington's bid to fight Leon Edwards for the welterweight title? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes in the Masvidal vs. Burns co-main event of Saturday's pay-per-view card in Miami, and if the UFC could change course if Masvidal steals the headlines. Additionally, topics include the big news of the UFC and WWE merging together as one company under the Endeavor umbrella, what it could mean for the fighters, the advantages the deal could have, the UFC 287 bantamweight matchup between Rob Font and Adrian Yanez, Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 287 takes center stage on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer with Matt Brown and Damon Martin previewing the upcoming event. The main event will see Alex Pereira defending the UFC middleweight title for the first time against ex-champion Israel Adesanya. Pereira now holds three wins over Adesanya — two in kickboxing and a knockout over him in the UFC — but can he possibly make it four in a row? We’ll discuss this matchup and what Adesanya needs to do to finally slay the “monster in his closet” that Pereira has become in his career. Plus, how much does a win or a loss affect Adesanya’s career legacy after largely establishing himself as the second best middleweight in history behind Anderson Silva? We’ll also talk about the co-main event where Gilbert Burns battles Leon Edwards and the stakes surrounding that welterweight matchup. Masvidal appears at a crossroads where a win could lead him into a title fight against Leon Edwards while a loss might mean his retirement. All this plus we’ll discuss the news that the UFC will be merging with WWE and much more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC and WWE will merge together in a new publicly traded company with combined revenue worth more than $21 billion, but what does this new partnership actually mean for the future of combat sports and professional wrestling? MMA Fighting’s Damon Martin and Alexander K. Lee react to the massive news after Endeavor closed a deal to buy a majority share in WWE that was officially announced on Monday. What does this deal do for the UFC? Will WWE performers suddenly start showing up on UFC programming? Is Conor McGregor destined to appear at WrestleMania? We’ll discuss all of that and so much more as it relates to the UFC and WWE becoming business partners under the Endeavor umbrella. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

É semana de Alex Poatan x Israel Adesanya e Gilbert Durinho x Jorge Masvidal no octógono, e o Trocação Franca destrincha tudo sobre o UFC 287 na companhia de Durinho e Glover Teixeira. A invista Jaqueline Amorim também passou pelo podcast antes de sua estreia no card de Miami. A sessão Fight Week também recebe a campeã Larissa Pacheco e Renan Problema, brasileiros que lutam sexta-feira pela PFL. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It’s UFC 287 fight week and Trocação Franca welcomes Gilbert Burns and Glover Teixeira to discuss and break down Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya 2 and “Durinho” vs. Jorge Masvidal in Miami. The podcast also welcomes UFC 287 newcomer Jaqueline Amorim and PFL fighters Larissa Pacheco and Renan Ferreira. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While a lot of the UFC pay-per-view schedule has taken shape, as of now, there is no main event on the slate for UFC 289, which is set to go down on June 10 in a location yet to be announced. What fight could take that slot? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the main event situation for the promotion's June pay-per-view event, and what could actually be in play. Additionally, listener questions include Stephen Thompson teasing fight news and who potential opponents could be, Jorge Masvidal's chances against Gilbert Burns at UFC 287, the art of the post-victory callout in the UFC, Gamebred Boxing 4, prospects to watch at Friday's Bellator 293 event, favorite WrestleMania moments, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Although the UFC has a rare weekend off, the combat sports world has plenty of options to keep fans occupied with a plethora of MMA, boxing, and other events sprinkled throughout. MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, Jed Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon discuss the combat sports weekend, which includes Bellator 293 — headlined by Marcelo Golm vs. Daniel James — PFL 1 and the main event between Brendan Loughnane and Marlon Moraes, Gamebred Boxing 4, which features Roy Jones Jr. in his final boxing match against former UFC champion Anthony Pettis, along with Fight Circus, Wrestlemania 39, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cory Sandhagen looked incredible in a dominant victory over Marlon Vera in the main event of UFC San Antonio — at least that's how it looked to all who watched it with the exception of one judge, capping off a miserable weekend for the TDLR. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Sandhagen's fantastic performance, his callout of Merab Dvalishvili, and where Vera goes from the loss. Additionally, they'll discuss the Texas commission's awful weekend from the judging on the UFC card, to the frightening officiating blunder at Fury FC 73 the night prior, Donald Cerrone getting the nod for the UFC Hall of Fame, Jorge Masvidal's Gamebred Boxing card this Saturday featuring a slew of MMA fighters competing in boxing matches, Friday's Bellator 293 event, the PFL's 2023 season kickoff this weekend, and more. This week, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew banter about the top stories in combat sports and beyond. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya has a lot to fight for when he faces his longtime nemesis Alex Pereira in his bid to regain the UFC middleweight title in the main event of UFC 287 next Saturday in Miami. A win could set up a massive third championship bout, or other interesting short-term avenues should he be successful, but where would Adesanya go with a second straight loss? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck tries to find answers to that very interesting question ahead of the UFC's next pay-per-view extravaganza. Additionally, listener questions include Khabib Nurmagomedov's greatness, comparing Stipe Miocic getting the next heavyweight title fight with Jon Jones to Colby Covington getting a shot at Leon Edwards for the welterweight strap, the sport's most underappreciated fighters, judging in MMA, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, and on the third episode of 2023, the MMA Fighting crew remembers the best of former UFC and WEC lightweight champion, Benson Henderson. Beginning his career in 2006, Henderson quickly made a name for himself as one of the most dynamic and exciting fighters in MMA, participating in both the 2009 and 2010 Fights of the Year. Those fights, both in the WEC, set up his most memorable career run, where he served as the UFC lightweight champion from 2012 to 2013, defending the title three times. After losing his belt to Anthony Pettis in 2013, Henderson remained a going concern in the UFC lightweight and welterweight divisions before becoming one of the first major free agents to depart the UFC and head to Bellator, where he would spend the rest of his career, challenging for titles on three separate occasions. One of the lightweight division's many overlooked champions, Henderson's 17-year career came to an end earlier this month when he retired after losing the Usman Nurmagomedov in the first round of the Bellator Lightweight Grand Prix, and so to honor the man affectionately dubbed "Bendo," host Jed Meshew is joined by MMAFighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti and Mike Heck to remember their favorite moments from his incredible career. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Mike Heck @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fim de semana cheio no mundo da luta, e o Trocação Franca traz os grandes destaques do Brasil em entrevistas exclusivas. José Aldo, que pega Jeremy Stephens no boxe, fala sobre a possível luta com Floyd Mayweather, o desafio de Acelino Popó, e as próximas lutas de Charles do Bronx, Alex Poatan e Conor McGregor no UFC. O programa traz, também, bate-papos com Thiago Marreta (PFL), Marcelo Golm (Bellator) e Pedro Munhoz (UFC). O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It’s a busy weekend in the fight world and Trocação Franca brings you the best in exclusive Brazilians interviews. Jose Aldo, who boxes Jeremy Stephens, discusses potential matches with Floyd Mayweather and Acelino Freitas, plus upcoming fights for Charles Oliveira, Alex Pereira, and Conor McGregor in the UFC. The program also features interviews with PFL’s Thiago Santos, Bellator’s Marcelo Golm and UFC’s Pedro Munhoz. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cory Sandhagen delivered the goods in the main event of UFC San Antonio against Marlon Vera, while the UFC's 2023 Hall of Fame class has added a "Cowboy" — which has set off a bit of a debate in the MMA community. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Sandhagen's impressive performance, his callout of Merab Dvalishvili, and his subsequent interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour. Additionally, topics include Donald Cerrone being announced for the UFC Hall of Fame this past Saturday and the conversations it has stirred, Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo, a potential Khamzat Chimaev vs. Paulo Costa fight, Dana White doubling down on Colby Covington being the No. 1 contender at 170, Michael Chiesa's options for UFC 287 with Li Jingliang out of their matchup, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Invicta FC veteran Serena Dejesus joins MMA Fighting’s José Youngs to discuss her love of all things anime, look back on the glory days of Toonami, and why she genuinely enjoys Grave of the Fireflies. The Las Vegas native also breaks down what she considers to be the 10 greatest anime shows of all-time, including Full Metal Alchemist, Cowboy Bebop, Steins;Gate, and more. She also tries her hand at the mysterious Bucket of Questions to close out episode 4. Follow José: https://twitter.com/JoseYoungs Follow Serena Dejesus: https://twitter.com/SerenaSouthpaw 🎵 Music by Nick Wolf: http://instagram.com/nickwolfmusic 🎨 Art by Adam Nelson: https://www.instagram.com/gorilla_the_bear Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin discuss the scoring in the Cory Sandhagen vs. Marlon “Chito” Vera fight as well as David Benavidez’s big win and what Conor McGregor’s career trajectory could have been if he didn’t take the Floyd Mayweather fight. Following UFC San Antonio on Saturday night, we’ll talk about Sandhagen’s big win as he took another step forward towards title contention with a potential matchup looming against Merab Dvalishvili. Of course, the scoring in Sandhagen’s split decision win will also take center stage after one judge somehow gave Vera three rounds, which Brown calls arguably the “biggest bulls***” scorecard in the history of the sport. We’ll also talk about David Benavidez picking up a statement win over Caleb Plant and the chances that he takes out “Canelo” Alvarez in his next fight. In fact, is Alvarez on the downside of his career at this point? Plus we’ll discuss what would have happened to Conor McGregor if he would have just continued fighting in MMA after he demolished Eddie Alvarez back in 2016. Is it possibly he could have beaten Khabib Nurmagomedov and cemented himself as one of the greatest fighters of all time? All this and much more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer with Matt Brown and Damon Martin. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cory Sandhagen delivered a sensational performance against Marlon Vera in the main event of UFC San Antonio and went on to call his shot against Merab Dvalishvili. Is that the fight to make at 135 with the bantamweight division being in such a weird place? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective following Sandhagen's second straight win. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Vera after having his four-fight win streak snapped, Holly Holm following her dominant decision win against Yana Santos in the co-main event, Nate Landwehr after electrifying the crowd with his submission win over Austin Lingo and post-fight promo, Maycee Barber following her controversial split decision win over Andrea Lee, along with fellow victors Albert Duraev, Daniel Pineda, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cory Sandhagen looked sensational over 25 minutes to defeat Marlon Vera in the main event of UFC San Antonio. However, one judge scored the bout for Vera which left the MMA community scratching their heads — and that was not the first time during the event that happened. Following Sandhagen's big win, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and E. Casey Leydon react to the performance, Sandhagen's callout of Merab Dvalishvili and why it was the correct use of his mic time, along with the weird scorecards for that fight, and others on the card. Additionally, they discuss Holly Holm's dominant decision win against Yana Santos and where it puts her at 135, the post-fight bonus winners, Nate Landwehr getting the job done in the cage and on the microphone, Manel Kape's reaction to his fight with Alex Perez getting cancelled, Donald Cerrone's UFC Hall of Fame announcement, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the UFC's first event following a storyline filled UFC 286 card, the promotion heads to Texas for UFC San Antonio, which will be headlined by a pivotal matchup in the bantamweight division between Marlon Vera and Cory Sandhagen. With the division in the state that it's in currently, what is on the line for both guys ahead of the fan-friendly bout? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee break down the Vera vs. Sandhagen five-rounder and where each guy goes with a win, and if a title shot is in play for either. Additionally, they'll discuss Holly Holm's first fight of 2023 as she meets Yana Santos in the co-main event, Maycee Barber vs. Andrea Lee, and more ahead of Saturday's event at the AT&T Center. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Belal Muhammad was confused as to why Colby Covington was named the No. 1 contender following UFC 286. Despite the bad news of getting passed over, Muhammad has found a way to turn the negative into a positive, and has gotten more support over the last few days among the MMA fan base than he has in his entire career. Will it work out for him in the end? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses how Muhammad has gotten himself over in a big way this week with how he has handled himself in the aftermath of Dana White's decision, and how Jorge Masvidal can give him what he wants should "Gamebred" defeat Gilbert Burns at UFC 287. Additionally, listener questions include greatest trilogies in MMA, Mount Rushmore of current fighters, the journey into the MMA media space, Benavidez vs. Plant, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leon Edwards sent the London fans home happy with majority decision win over Kamaru Usman in the main event of UFC 286 this past Saturday. With his rivalry with Usman officially behind him, there seemed to be many interesting options for "Rocky," before Dana White announced his own option. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses the fallout of Edwards' victory over Usman, what the victory means for Edwards' legacy, and where Usman goes from his second straight loss. Additionally, they'll discuss the UFC president naming Colby Covington as the No. 1 contender for the welterweight title, Edwards taking a stand, Covington's interview with MMA Fighting, and if "Chaos" has done Belal Muhammad a favor, along with Justin Gaethje's big win over Rafael Fiziev in the UFC 286 co-main event, Saturday's UFC San Antonio event headlined by a pivotal bantamweight bout between Marlon Vera and Cory Sandhagen, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Damon Martin. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a year away from the public eye, Colby Covington stepped on the scale as the backup for the UFC 286 main event between Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman, and was named as the No. 1 contender at welterweight to face Edwards next. While many were curious as to what Covington's demeanor would be upon his return, he has doubled down on his persona, but has that been detrimental to him in the eyes of the fans? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses his interview with Covington, along with his viral quote about Jon Anik, and how he reacted to it in the moment. Additionally, topics include if Covington is now getting "go-away heat," Paulo Costa agreeing to a new deal with the UFC and if a fight with Khamzat Chimaev is in his future, the bantamweight main event of UFC San Antonio between Marlon Vera and Cory Sandhagen, Jorge Masvidal's title hopes with a win over Gilbert Burns, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This Saturday the UFC concludes an eight-week stretch of events with UFC San Antonio, headlined by a bantamweight matchup between Marlon 'Chito' Vera and Cory Sandhagen, and the No Bets Barred boys are back to break things down. To kick things off, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew recap UFC 286, where Conner continued to struggle, while Jed somehow pulled out a good weekend for the first time all year, and where UFC flyweight contender Muhammad Mokaev established himself unequivocally as an Enemy of the State for Flyweight Under Nation. Fortunately, Flyweight Under Nation is still thriving as this weekend there are THREE bouts that fit the description and so Conner and Jed dive deep into their UFC San Antonio breakdown, featuring a copious amount of over/under plays, and the debut of a new type of wager that could prove to be the Next Big Thing in MMA gambling. Tune in for Episode 39 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leon Edwards was one of the most disrespected fighters in MMA. Now he's the man who not only did the impossible — he did it twice. The rankings show is BACK after another crazy MMA stretch to sort through Edwards' massive win in his UFC 286 trilogy with Kamaru Usman, and much more. Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to debate where Edwards ranks among the greatest reversal-of-narratives UFC champions around (11:40), where the welterweight division stands after a slew of big fights, and much more. They also hit on whether Merab Dvalishvilli's standing as MMA's most overqualified bodyguard is good or bad for the bantamweight division around (33:57), whether Muhammad Mokaev's first year in the UFC deserves a reassessment of expectations around (43:54), and pour a few out for the homies with some bittersweet farewells around (55:58). Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rafael Cordeiro fala ao podcast sobre a preparação de Beneil Dariush para o desafio com Charles do Bronx no UFC 288 e os próximos passos de atletas da equipe, além de prever um caminho duro para Conor McGregor caso volte ao peso leve. Felipe Preguiça, um dos principais nomes do país no grappling, comenta expectativa para nova luta com o arquirrival Gordon Ryan e os planos de transição para o MMA. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Rafael Cordeiro breaks down Beneil Dariush’s preparation to face Charles Oliveira at UFC 288 and next steps for other Kings MMA athletes — he also predicts a hard time for Conor McGregor if he ever goes back to lightweight. Top Brazilian grappler Felipe ‘Preguiça’ Pena talks about getting a new match booked against his longtime rival Gordon Ryan and future MMA plans. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leon Edwards was on the right side of his trilogy with Kamaru Usman and retained his welterweight title in the main event of UFC 286. Following the event, UFC President Dana White created quite the stir by announcing that Colby Covington would be next for "Rocky." On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Edwards' big win, Covington getting the next shot and why it shouldn't be a surprise, Belal Muhammad getting skipped over and now being targeted to fight Shavkat Rakhmonov, and the timing of the announcement with Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal being scheduled to fight at UFC 287. Additionally, listener questions include Justin Gaethje's big win over Rafael Fiziev, a potential rematch between Gaethje and Dustin Poirier, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Colby Covington discusses the fallout from UFC 286, Dana White announcing that he's the next challenger for UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards, the critics of White's announcement, and more with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following an eventful UFC 286 card over the weekend, The Fighter vs. The Writer with Matt Brown and Damon Martin discusses the biggest storylines coming out of the event including Leon Edwards successfully defending his title against Kamaru Usman in the main event. Edwards picked up a second win over Usman after scoring a stunning comeback knockout in their rematch but now that he’s vanquished arguably the second best welterweight in history, what should be next? Well, UFC president Dana White says Colby Covington is getting the next title shot but is that coming at the expensive of Belal Muhammad? Brown argues why Edwards should actually just take the fight with Covington while also talking about the potential matchup between Muhammad and Shavkat Rakhmonov. We’ll also discuss Justin Gaethje’s latest Fight of the Night performance over Rafael Fiziev and how the UFC should move away from the current bonus structure and start offering finish bonuses to all the fighters on every card. All this and much more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After Leon Edwards defeated Kamaru Usman to retain the welterweight title to cap off Saturday's UFC 286 event, UFC president Dana White announced that Colby Covington would be getting the next shot at Edwards. With contenders in play, and notable divisional matchups in play, is that the fight to make? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question following the promotion's pay-per-view event in London. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Usman after his second consecutive loss to Edwards, Justin Gaethje following his Fight of the Night win over Rafael Fizev, along with fellow main card winners Gunnar Nelson, Jennifer Maia, Marvin Vettori, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leon Edwards won the main event of UFC286, as well as the trilogy with Kamaru Usman to retain the UFC welterweight championship, and following the event, Dana White says that Edwards' next opponent will be Colby Covington regardless of what happens in the division. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to the decision win for "Rocky" to cap off the night, where Usman goes from his second straight loss to the champ, the decision to announce Covington as the No. 1 contender before Gilbert Burns vs. Jorge Masvidal takes place at UFC 287, and Belal Muhammad potentially fighting Shavkat Rakhmonov next. Additionally, they'll discuss Justin Gaethje's decision win against Rafael Fiziev in a classic co-main event, some of the bizarre scorecards throughout the card, take some viewer questions, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 286's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 286 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/live/p8HOa72Fp70?feature=share Approximate timestamps below (not exact): Marvin Vettori vs. Roman Dolidze (33:14) Vettori gets decision - reaction to scorecards (55:30) Anderson Silva announced for UFC Hall of Fame (59:47) Jennifer Maia vs. Casey O'Neill (1:11:45) Ripping Packs (1:35:17) Gunnar Nelson vs. Bryan Barberena (1:39:32) Nelson submits Barberena reaction (1:45:56) Gaethje vs. Fiziev UFC 4 battle (1:53:38) Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev fight (2:00:35) Reaction to Gaethje winning majority decision (2:23:00) Leon Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman 3 (2:43:30) Edwards loses a point (3:01:22) Edwards wins majority decision (3:20:28) Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leon Edwards will defend his UFC welterweight title for the first time on his home turf as the promotion heads to London for Saturday's UFC 286 event. Edwards will battle the man he dethroned in Kamaru Usman in a championship bout that has so many questions and storylines attached to it. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew get you ready for the pay-per-view event by discussing the trilogy fight between Edwards and Usman, and the stakes involved for both men outside of the title, along with surprise backup fighter Colby Covington's place in the title picture. Additionally, they will preview the incredible co-main event between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev, discuss the under the radar matchups, answer some viewer questions, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

During Friday's UFC 286 official weigh-ins, Colby Covington surprised the MMA community when he weighed in as the backup fighter for the welterweight championship main event between Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman, hitting the championship mark at 170 pounds. After a year of silence, is there any more behind the promotion's decision other than a just-in-case type of situation? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Covington's out-of-nowhere appearance at the weigh-ins, and if he could find himself in a title fight when he returns to the octagon next. Additionally, topics include Rafael Fiziev being a heavy favorite against Justin Gaethje in the co-main event, where Israel Adesanya could go if he loses to Alex Pereira again at UFC 287, if Usman could go up to middleweight after Saturday's fight, where Belal Muhammad fits in the welterweight championship puzzle, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This Saturday, Leon Edwards looks to have lightning strike twice when he defends his welterweight title on home turf against the man he dethroned in Kamaru Usman at UFC 286. While there are certainly a lot of questions on both sides, which fighter needs this win more? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will give their thoughts on that topic, what the result could do for both guys moving forward in the UFC welterweight division, and more. Additionally, topics include the UFC 286 co-main event between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev, along with other storylines surrounding Saturday's pay-per-view event in London, Usman Nurmagomedov's successful title defense against the now-retired Benson Henderson at Bellator 292 and where he ranks overall at lightweight, the UFC bantamweight picture after Merab Dvalishvili's impressive win over Petr Yan at UFC Las Vegas, and more. Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Brian Petrie from The MMA Takes podcast, and Anik & Florian. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Petrie: @BrianPetrieMMA Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor McGregor made a surprise appearance on The MMA Hour with Ariel Helwani on Wednesday evening and had a lot to say — including wanting a welterweight title shot against the winner of Saturday's UFC 286 main event between Leon Edwards and Kamaru Usman should he defeat Michael Chandler in his return bout. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to McGregor's interview and if he factors into the 170-pound title picture should he defeat Chandler later on this year. Additionally, listener questions include the overall welterweight landscape following UFC 286, where Belal Muhammad sits in the picture, the lightweight vs. bantamweight debate, Islam Makhachev potentially fighting at the UFC's return to Abu Dhabi in October, Aljamain Sterling's bantamweight future and where that puts Merab Dvalishvili, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After knocking out Kamaru Usman in one of the greatest comebacks in MMA history last year, welterweight champion Leon Edwards will put his newly won title on the line in a trilogy bout with Usman this Saturday at UFC 286, and so the No Bets Barred boys are back, and they've got a couple special guests in store. To kick things off this week, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew are joined by Andrew Collins, the man who turned $1 into $400,000 at UFC 285 with a five-fight exacto-parlay, to talk about what some are calling the greatest bet in MMA history. Then the boys are joined by MMA On Point's Alex Ritchings, who is on the ground in London for this week's events, to talk about all things UFC 286. Topics this week include differing opinions on whether Leon Edwards can retain his title, fervent debate on Justin Gaethje's chances to rebound against Rafael Fiziev, unanimous agreement in Gunnar Nelson's prospects against Bryan Barberena, and of course, some more flyweight under discourse. Tune in for Episode 38 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alex Ritchings: @Bayliun_Plays Follow Andrew Collins: @ACTHEHULK Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ainda em busca da luta de despedida no UFC, Demian Maia fala da transição para a carreira de comentarista no UFC Fight Pass, os novos desafios, e o duelo de sábado entre seu ex-rival Kamaru Usman e Leon Edwards. O podcast recebe também o piloto Max Wilson, campeão da StockCar, comentarista de Formula 1 na Band e apaixonado por lutas. Na sessão Fight Week, um papo com o estreante no UFC 286, Jafel Filho, sobre a luta contra um fenômeno do MMA. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Still in pursuit of a UFC retirement bout, Demian Maia discusses his transition to the commentary booth at UFC Fight Pass, new challenges, and UFC 286's main event between former opponent Kamaru Usman and champ Leon Edwards. The podcast also welcomes racing driver Max Wilson, a StockCar champion, Formula 1 commentator, and MMA aficionado. The Fight Week session features UFC 286 newcomer Jafel Filho weighing in on his clash with an unbeaten MMA phenom. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Kamaru Usman will look to avenge his stunning loss to Leon Edwards this Saturday at UFC 286. With an already Hall of Fame worthy career on his resume, what would be next for Usman should he regain the welterweight title? Or, where would he go if he loses for the second straight fight? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses those questions ahead of Saturday's pay-per-view event in London, and what options could be in play for Usman depending on the result. Additionally, lister questions include the UFC 286 co-main event between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev, the title implications for both guys, Marvin Vettori's future, Merab Dvalishvili's impressive performance against Petr Yan at UFC Las Vegas, Aljamain Sterling's title fight with Henry Cejudo, where Usman Nurmagomedov currently sits in the global lightweight rankings after quickly dispatching Benson Henderson at Bellator 292, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer with Matt Brown and Damon Martin returns with discussion about Merab Dvalishvili’s huge win, our UFC 286 preview and our Ask Matt Brown segment is back this week. Following a lopsided win over Petr Yan at UFC Las Vegas, Merab Dvalishvili may have just established himself as the second best bantamweight in the promotion but he’s stated emphatically that he will not face friend and teammate Aljamain Sterling. Is Dvalishvili making a huge mistake by not taking this opportunity or is staying loyal to his friend even more important? We’ll also give our thoughts on UFC 286 including the growing narrative that Kamaru Usman may still be suffering from sort of fallout from his devastating knockout loss to Leon Edwards in their previous encounter. Is Usman actually at risk just because he got knocked out or is this just a way for people to talk themselves into believing Edwards has a better chance to win? We also discuss Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev and Brown will explain why he believes Fiziev will be too much for Gaethje to handle at UFC 286. All this plus the return of our Ask Matt Brown segment on the latest edition of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Merab Dvalishvili dominated Petr Yan over five rounds to pick up the biggest victory of his career and make a compelling case for a bantamweight title shot — a belt currently held by his close friend and training partner Aljamain Sterling. With everything in play in the loaded 135-pound division, where does Yan go from his main event victory at UFC Las Vegas? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee put on the matchmaking hats to discuss what could be next for "The Machine" following his one-sided decision win. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Yan, who has now lost three straight and four of five, Alexander Volkov following his quick finish of Alexandr Romanov, Nikita Krylov after stopping Ryan Spann in the first round, Jonathan Martinez following his upset victory over Said Nurmagomedov, along with fellow winners Mario Bautista, Vitor Petrino, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Despite being a sizable underdog, Merab Dvalishvili didn't just defeat Petr Yan in the main event of UFC Las Vegas, but he swept the scorecards against the former bantamweight champion. With title aspirations in play, and his close friend and training partner Aljamain Sterling holding the 135-pound title, where does Saturday's victory put "The Machine" in the championship discussion? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Dvalishvili's dominant performance against Yan, what could be next for both guys, and the surprising changing of momentum in the career of Yan over the last couple of years. Additionally, they discuss Alexander Volkov's quick stoppage of Alexandr Romanov, Nikita Krylov's first-round submission of Ryan Spann, Bruno Silva and Davey Grant's sensational finishes on the prelims, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC’s first event coming out of UFC 285 will take place in their home city, but not at the APEX, as UFC Las Vegas features a pivotal main event matchup in the bantamweight division between former champion Petr Yan and surging contender Merab Dvalishvili. MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee preview the 135-pound bout and what is at stake for Yan and Dvalishvili, if a title shot could be next for either fighter with a win (or far, far away with a loss). Additionally, they’ll discuss the heavyweight co-main event between Alexander Volkov and Alexandr Romanov, the re-booked Nikita Krylov vs. Ryan Spann fight, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After Alexa Grasso shocked the world with her submission win over Valentina Shevchenko in the co-main event of UFC 285 to capture the flyweight title, should she run it right back with Shevchenko, or should the surging Erin Blanchfield get her chance to fight for the championship first? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the flyweight division, and how things shape up after this past Saturday's pay-per-view event. Additionally, Free-For-All Friday topics include Jon Jones' future after a fight with Stipe Miocic, what could be next for Kamaru Usman win or lose next Saturday at UFC 286, Justin Gaethje's title contention hopes heading into his fight with Rafael Fiziev, the current state of pro wrestling, best fights of all-time, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones is the UFC heavyweight champion after submitting Ciryl Gane in the first round in the main event of UFC 285. With the victory, as impressive as it was, is it enough for Jones to reclaim the top spot as the No. 1 fighter on the planet currently? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will recap Jones' incredible return to the octagon, his current pound-for-pound status, and a potential fight with Stipe Miocic. Additionally, topics include Alexa Grasso's massive upset win over Valentina Shevchenko to win the flyweight title, if an immediate rematch is the way to go, the low-key MVP of the pay-per-view event, Friday's Bellator 293 card — headlined by the lightweight title fight and opening round grand prix matchup between Usman Nurmagomedov and Benson Henderson — stacked up against UFC Las Vegas, headlined by Petr Yan vs. Merab Dvalishvili, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the discussion between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Eric "New York Ric" Jackman. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While Jon Jones' heavyweight championship victory has stolen the headlines, and created a potential massive fight with Stipe Miocic later this year, there hasn't been a lot of talk about what comes next for Jones' opponent Ciryl Gane. Where does Gane go from the tough loss to Jones? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on what could be next for Gane following UFC 285, and what opponents make sense. Additionally, topics include UFC Las Vegas and whether or not a win over Petr Yan could get Merab Dvalishvili a title shot in his next fight, Bellator 293, Bo Nickal's UFC debut and Henry Cejudo's comments that the Penn State national champion should get six more fights under his belt before getting a top-10 opponent, under the radar fights for the upcoming UFC 286 pay-per-view event, the stakes in the Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev fight, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 285 is in the review but that doesn't mean the MMA game is stopping. This Saturday in Las Vegas, the UFC returns with yet another fight night card, this time headlined by a pivotal bantamweight matchup between Petr Yan and Merab Dvalishvili, and so, as always, the No Bets Barred boys are back to discuss. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick off the episode by discussing UFC 285, an event which was undeniably ugly for both. Conner ended up down a few units but that paled in comparison to Jed whose "All In On Shevchenko" plan backfired catastrophically. Now Jed is down to the felt and looking to build back up, and so the boys dive into UFC Las Vegas, with both men weighing the merits of continuing to back Petr Yan, questioning the possible outcomes for the Battle of Alexanders in the co-main event, and digging deep to find value on the undercard. Then, before wrapping things up, Jed offers up a pair of Bellator 292 bets, just for good measure. Tune in for Episode 38 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O UFC oficializou o retorno de Charles do Bronx contra Beneil Dariush no dia 6 de maio, e o ex-campeão volta ao Trocação Franca para analisar o duelo, falar do sucesso estrondoso no Brasil, as alfinetadas virtuais em Conor McGregor, o tropeço diante de Islam Makhachev e muito mais. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Goiti Yamauchi, Bruno Bulldoguinho e Markus Maluko. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The UFC has officially announced Charles Oliveira’s clash with Beneil Dariush for May 6, and the former champion returns to Trocação Franca to weigh in on the match-up, his astounding success in Brazil, the online altercation with Conor McGregor, the loss to Islam Makhachev, and much more. This week’s podcast also features interviews with Goiti Yamauchi, Bruno Silva, and Markus Perez. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones made it look easy against Ciryl Gane to become the new UFC heavyweight champion. While some questions were answered, others may still be on the table — questions that may only be answered if somehow the UFC can put a fight together between Jones and former champ Francis Ngannou. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the fallout of Jones' quick submission win over Gane in the main event of UFC 285, a likely showdown with Stipe Miocic, and whether or not the UFC would attempt to re-sign Ngannou to fight Jones should the latter move to 2-0 at heavyweight. Additionally, listener questions include Alexa Grasso's championship win against Valentina Shevchenko and if there should be an immediate rematch, or if Grasso's first title defense should be against Erin Blanchfield, Bo Nickal's successful octagon debut, Shavkat Rakhmonov's options after finishing Geoff Neal, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones or Francis Ngannou — who is the No. 1 heavyweight in the world? The gang is BACK to wade through the wreckage of another crazy weekend at UFC 285 and make sense of what Jon Jones' violent reintroduction to MMA (and violent introduction to the heavyweight division) means for the bigger picture. Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by ol' pals Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to debate Jones' place in the heavyweight ranks (around 8:16), where he stands among the current pound-for-pound crop (around 36:42), and much more. They also hit on Alexa Grasso's unbelievable upset over Valentina Shevchenko and where the new champ ranks among the best fighters in the world today (around 1:00:53). Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former UFC title challenger Joseph Benavidez and UFC digital content manager Zac Pacleb join MMA Fighting’s José Youngs on Episode 3 episode of Anything But Fighting. The two cinephiles look back on the year of movies in 2022, give their prediction for the 95th Academy Awards, and break down the biggest Oscar snubs, while also previewing what fans can expect in the theaters in 2023. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Joseph Benavidez: @JoeJitsu Follow Zac Pacleb: @ZacPacleb 🎵 Music by Nick Wolf: http://instagram.com/nickwolfmusic 🎨 Art by Adam Nelson: https://www.instagram.com/gorilla_the_bear Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Where does Jon Jones go following his quick submission win to capture the UFC heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 285? While Jones' path seems pretty clear, what could be next for Ciryl Gane after falling short in his bid to win the title? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee will attempt to answer those questions and more from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for new flyweight champion Alexa Grasso and the now former champ Valentina Shevchenko — and if an immediate rematch is the way to go — Shavkat Rakhmonov following his nasty submission win over Geoff Neal, along with Mateusz Gamrot, Bo Nickal, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones needed just over two minutes to add UFC heavyweight champion to his impressive list of career accomplishments as he submitted Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 285. Prior to that, Alexa Grasso came through with her own submission victory to end the dominant flyweight title reign of Valentina Shevchenko. Following a memorable pay-per-view event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Jones' impressive return to the octagon for the first time in over three years, how a fight between the new heavyweight titleholder and former champ Stipe Miocic could go, Grasso's incredible performance to pull of the big upset, and where the loss takes Shevchenko. Additionally, topics include Shavkat Rakhmonov's third-round stoppage win over Geoff Neal and what could be next for him, Bo Nickal's successful octagon debut, Cody Garbrandt winning his fight with Trevin Jones, but still adding many more questions about his future, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 285's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 285 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtaXgPRdmHA Timestamps below: Bo Nickal vs. Jamie Pickett (39:10) Mateusz Gamrot vs. Jalin Turner (1:00:40) Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Geoff Neal (1:36:10) Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso (2:12:35) Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane (3:01:05) Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones is heading back to the UFC octagon on Saturday for the first time in over three years. Jones is tasked with taking on Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title, one that certainly has the shadow of former champ Francis Ngannou looming over it. Can Jones get it done, or will Gane have the title wrapped around his waist at the end of UFC 285? Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee as they preview the fascinating Jones vs. Gane main event matchup, the storylines and questions attached to it, what to expect from an all-time great who hasn't competed in over 36 months and making his heavyweight debut, and more. Additionally, they preview the flyweight title fight between Valentina Shevchenko and Alexa Grasso, Bo Nickal's octagon debut, Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Geoff Neal, Mateusz Gamrot facing Jalin Turner, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Saturday night at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, one of the greatest fighters to ever step foot inside the UFC's octagon returns to action, this time in a new weight class to fight for the heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 285. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will preview the incredibly fascinating headliner for UFC 285 and discuss the biggest questions surrounding Jones' return, as well as Gane's latest attempt to become undisputed champion. Additionally, topics include the flyweight championship co-main event between Valentina Shevchenko and Alexa Grasso, along with the loaded UFC 285 lineup, Jake Paul losing his first boxing match to Tommy Fury and if the rematch is the way to go for both guys, UFC Vegas 70 and Brendan Allen's big win, Tatiana Suarez's successful return, Yaroslav Amosov's incredible performance at Bellator 291 and where he ranks at welterweight globally, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and recent UFC Vegas 70 Performance of the Night winner Joe Solecki. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Joe Solecki: @JoeSolecki Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 285 has shaped up to be an incredible lineup on paper, which will be headlined by the vacant heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Ciryl Gane. While that fight is outstanding and fascinating, there's a lot to like in terms of questions and storylines on the rest of the main card, and on the prelims. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Saturday's lineup, the burning questions surrounding the main event, Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso for the flyweight title, Bo Nickal's debut, why Geoff Neal could give Shavkhat Rakhmonov a bigger test than most believe, and more. Additionally, topics include BKFC signing former UFC champs Luke Rockhold and Eddie Alvarez, their upcoming bouts with Mike Perry and Chad Mendes respectively, Jake Paul's loss to Tommy Fury, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC is back and so is Jon Jones! That's right, this weekend one of the greatest fighters of all-time (and one of the greatest bets of all-time) returns to the cage for the first time in three years, and this time, it's at heavyweight! Jon Jones takes on Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title at UFC 285 on Saturday and the No Bets Barred boys are back with a breakdown. This week, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew are joined by the esteemed Eric "New York Ric" Jackman to talk about Jones' long-awaited return and debate whether or not he can capture a second belt. Then the discussion turns to the rest of the stacked UFC 285 card, including a main card Wolfpack Wager, some Bo Nickal discussion, and even some dissension with the undercard action. Plus, Jed is running it back with another All In On Shevchenko bet. Tune in for Episode 37 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow New York Ric: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones finalmente está de volta, e o Trocação Franca mergulha no camp da lenda do MMA antes de sua estreia como peso pesado contra Ciryl Gane, sábado, pelo título vago da categoria. O programa recebe Roberto Tussa, treinador de longa data de Jones, e Yorgan de Castro, um de seus principais sparrings para o UFC 285. A sessão Fight Week traz um papo direto de Las Vegas com Amanda Ribas, que duela com Viviane Araújo. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Jon Jones is finally back, and Trocação Franca takes a deep dive into his camp ahead of his long-awaited heavyweight debut opposite Ciryl Gane for the vacant UFC title. The show welcomes Roberto Alencar, Jones’ longtime jiu-jitsu coach, and Yorgan de Castro, one of his main sparring partners for UFC 285. The Fight Week session features Amanda Ribas, who faces Viviane Araujo on the same card. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The countdown is on to UFC 285 and the return of Jon Jones, as he makes his heavyweight debut against Ciryl Gane for the UFC heavyweight title, which was vacated by Francis Ngannou when he left the promotion. With so many storylines and unknowns with Jones' comeback fight following a three-year layoff, is Saturday's main event the most intriguing and compelling fight currently on the UFC's calendar? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on the matchup and how it stacks up to the rest of the announced bouts on the 2023 slate for the UFC. Additionally, listener topics include the current discussion about near wardrobe malfunctions for UFC women fighters and how it can be addressed, career trajectories of Jalin Turner and Cody Garbrandt ahead of UFC 285, where Tatiana Suarez goes from her UFC Vegas 70 submission win, Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler, Jake Paul losing to Tommy Fury, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Anthony Smith joins the show as a special guest to give his insight into Jon Jones making his heavyweight debut at UFC 285. After spending five rounds in the cage with Jones, Smith will give his thoughts on the advantages and disadvantages that the former light heavyweight champion might face in his new division. Smith will also reveal who he believes is probably Jones’ biggest threat at heavyweight while detailing how he believes a fight between Jones and Francis Ngannou would have gone. Plus Matt Brown discusses where he puts Jones on his list of the greatest MMA fighters of all time, especially when compared other legends like Georges St-Pierre or Demetrious Johnson. We’ll also all give our picks for Jones vs. Gane and the co-main event where Valentina Shevchenko battles Alexa Grasso. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jake Paul and Tommy Fury finally faced off in the boxing ring to settle their longstanding rivalry and it was Fury who emerged with a split decision win over the YouTuber-turned-fighter. It was a competitive back-and-forth fight and arguably the most high-profile bout yet for the crossover boxing stars. Join MMA Fighting’s Alexander K. Lee, Damon Martin, and E. Casey Leydon as we break down how Fury and Paul fared in their grudge match. Did the fight live up to the hype? Did either man cover themselves with glory? Will there be an immediate rematch? And if not, what’s next for Fury and Paul following their showdown? The panel also discusses the state of influencer boxing following a weekend that also saw Floyd Mayweather take on reality TV star and former Bellator fighter Aaron Chalmers in an exhibition bout. Has this trend run its course or are there still plenty of money matchups to be made? Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mmafighting Follow on Twitter: www.Twitter.com/MMAFighting Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Brendan Allen silenced the critics and busted a bunch of parlays when he submitted the surging Andre Muniz in, what became, the main event of UFC Vegas 70 this past Saturday at the APEX. With the middleweight division in an interesting spot, what makes sense for Allen's next fight following the biggest win of his career? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Tatiana Suarez following her successful return to the octagon in submitting Montana De La Rosa, Augusto Sakai after his victory over Don'Tale Mayes, along with fellow victors Mike Mallott, Jordan Leavitt, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nikita Krylov and Ryan Spann did not close out UFC Vegas 70 as planned, as their matchup was cancelled shortly before it was scheduled to begin. But Brendan Allen made the most of his first UFC main event matchup — and surprised a lot of people in the process. MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee react to Allen’s impressive third-round submission victory of Andre Muniz in the short notice middleweight headliner and where he could go following the biggest win of his career. Additionally, they discuss Tatiana Suarez’s successful return to the octagon for the first time in nearly four years with her submission of Montana De La Rosa, if the UFC won the weekend in MMA, Yaroslav Amosov’s unbelievable performance against Logan Storley to retain his Bellator welterweight title, Fabricio de Andrade’s TKO win over John Lineker for ONE Championship on Friday, Phil De Fries stopping Todd Duffee in the first round on Saturday to keep his incredible KSW heavyweight title run going, Floyd Mayweather vs. Aaron Chalmers, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury is (finally) here. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew discuss Sunday's boxing matchup, the interest in the fight, what's at stake for both men, if former UFC fighter Nate Diaz is next for Paul win or lose, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nikita Krylov and Ryan Spann battle it out in the light heavyweight main event of Saturday’s UFC Vegas 70 fight card, while all eyes in the MMA world appear to be on the return of Tatiana Suarez, who makes her first UFC appearance in nearly four years when she takes on Montana De La Rosa in a flyweight bout. Join MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew as they preview Saturday’s card at the APEX, discuss the main event, Suarez’s first fight back since June 2019, Andre Muniz vs. Brendan Allen in the co-main event, and more, as the UFC makes one last detour on the road to UFC 285, and the return of Jon Jones against Ciryl Gane for the heavyweight title. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones' long-awaited return to the octagon is a little over a week away as he prepares to face Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 285. While there are a lot of questions about the matchup, and where the overall game of the former light heavyweight champion is at, what's your biggest question about that fight? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the massive main event for next weekend's UFC pay-per-view card and where Jones could go, win or lose. Additionally, topics include best ring announcers in combat sports, Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury and the potential pressures for both fighters, Chris Curtis' reaction to the UFC 287 lineup and his bout with Kelvin Gastelum being on the prelims, Francis Ngannou in boxing, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This Sunday, Jake Paul returns to the boxing ring and is scheduled to finally fight Tommy Fury. The question is, does this fight have nearly the buzz as any of Paul's recent bouts, or do people care about it? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Sunday's boxing match in Saudi Arabia and why the buzz feels very low for this one compared to his fights with Anderson Silva, Tyron Woodley, or Ben Askren. Additionally, topics include Erin Blanchfield's massive win over Jessica Andrade at UFC Vegas69 and whether she should fight for the title next, or get another fight under her belt, this weekend's UFC Vegas 70 and Bellator 291 cards, the main events between Ryan Spann and Nikita Krylov, as well as the Bellator welterweight title fight between Yaroslav Amosov and Logan Storley, Tatiana Suarez's long-awaited return, other news and notes, including a potential burying of the hatchet between Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier ahead of UFC 285, and more. Host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew to discuss the biggest stories in MMA and beyond. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dustin Poirier wants to be Islam Makahchev's next challenger for the UFC lightweight title coming off of his finish of Michael Chandler this past November at UFC 281. What are the chances "The Diamond" gets his wish? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses why it shouldn't come as a surprise of Poirier does end up fighting Makhachev for the title next, even if Beneil Dariush beats Charles Oliveira at UFC 288 in May. Additionally, topics include Tatiana Suarez's return to the octagon this Saturday and her plan to move back down to strawweight after UFC Vegas 70, Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane at UFC 285 for the vacant heavyweight title, who Jones could fight next if he loses to Gane, Curtis Blaydes vs. Sergei Pavlovich being announced as the main event of the UFC's April 22 card, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This weekend is a monster one in combat sports with no less than FIVE major events taking place, and so of course the No Bets Barred boys are here to break down all the betting action. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive into yet another UFC Fight Night card, UFC Vegas 70 taking place at the APEX and headlined by a light heavyweight matchup between Nikita Krylov and Ryan Spann. Both Conner and Jed are a little wary of the main event, but have no such qualms about Andre Muniz and the long-awaited return of Tatiana Suarez; plus, both guys end up with a few other plays on the card. Next the boys jump into discussions about Bellator 291, with some main event action for Jed and a finely minted Chalk Soup parlay for Conner, before quick-hitting KSW and ONE Championship bets, and then rounding the whole thing out by breaking down the biggest fight of the weekend: Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury. Tune in for Episode 36 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Quarta-feira de cinzas, você naquela ressaca (ou ainda bebendo, ou só treinando), hora ideal para ouvir o Trocação Franca e se inteirar do que rola essa semana no MMA. O podcast traz seis entrevistas com atletas que lutam neste fim de semana em todos os cantos do planeta, no UFC, Bellator e ONE: André Sergipano, John Lineker, Fabrício de Andrade, Pedro Carvalho, Augusto Sakai e Victoria Souza. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It’s Carnival week in Brazil — and Trocação Franca is here to keep you up to date on what’s going on in the MMA world this weekend. Six fighters join the show who are set to compete in the UFC, Bellator, and ONE: Andre Muniz, John Lineker, Fabricio de Andrade, Pedro Carvalho, Augusto Sakai and Victoria Souza. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erin Blanchfield made a giant leap in the main event of UFC Vegas 69 this past Saturday at the APEX, but was her impressive finish of Jessica Andrade enough to get her right into a title fight, or would you rather see her get one more bout in before taking that next step? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Blanchfield's stoppage win, and a possible fight with Valentina Shevchenko should she defeat Alexa Grasso at UFC 285, Additionally, listener questions include the return of Tatiana Suarez against Montana De La Rosa this Saturday at UFC Vegas 70, the interest — or lack thereof — in the Jake Paul vs. Tommy Fury fight this Sunday, Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane, Israel Adesanya returning in April to fight Alex Pereira, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, UFC welterweight legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin discuss and debate the biggest topics in combat sports including Jake Paul’s upcoming fight with Tommy Fury. As Paul prepares for his first fight against an opponent with a boxing resume, we'll debate if Tommy Fury is actually the toughest test "The Problem Child" has faced or has he already taken on tougher competition in past fights against Tyron Woodley and Anderson Silva? We’ll also discuss the broadcast teams working in the UFC and if Brown has ever taken issue with anybody calling his fights in the past. Brown will also reveal his top UFC commentator of all time and who he believes might soon be fighting for the top spot. To kick things off this week, we’ll discuss Erin Blanchfield’s huge win over Jessica Andrade and if she’s now the biggest threat that Valentina Shevchenko has potentially faced since winning the title and becoming UFC flyweight champion? Plus for the first time, we feature our new Ask Matt Brown segment where the veteran UFC welterweight answers questions from the fans — this week including his opinion on fixing judging in the sport, fighting at the UFC APEX and even offering some dating advice. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's Mike Heck brings you the story of UFC hopeful and TUF 29 contestant Dustin Lampros, who along with friend and partner Ryan Montgomery is taking his fight outside of the cage, into the dark web, and onto the streets to stop child predators before they can strike. In this mini-documentary, Lampros and Montgomery discuss how they came together, what they have learned since teaming up, how their stings are put together and the addition of calisthenics to them in order to embarrass the suspects, Lampros' fighting future and what he learned from his appearance on The Ultimate Fighter, and more. *Warning: This podcast deals with subject matter that may not be suitable for all audiences. Listener discretion advised. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erin Blanchfield, at just 23 years of age, could find herself in a world title fight this year — possibly against the best women's fighter on the planet. Is that the right fight to make for Blanchfield following a main event finish this past Saturday, or should she get one more before that happens? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what is next for Blanchfield following her second-round submission win over Jessica Andrade. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Zac Pauga after his decision victory over Jordan Wright in the co-main event, Jamal Pogues following his successful UFC debut against Josh Parisian, Marcin Prachnio after his bizarre fight and decision win with William Knight, Alexander Hernandez, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Erin Blanchfield passed her biggest test with flying colors and submitted Jessica Andrade in the second round of the UFC Vegas 69 main event on Saturday at the UFC APEX. Following the win, Blanchfield called out the winner of the UFC 285 title fight between Valentina Shevchenko and Alesa Grasso. Should Shevchenko retain, will Blanchfield be the longtime champ's toughest challenge? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Jed Meshew react to Blanchfield's massive victory against the dangerous Andrade, and discuss the chances "Cold Blooded" would have against Shevchenko. Additionally, they discuss the strange performance of William Knight in his unanimous decision loss to Marcin Prachnio, Alexander Hernandez's decision win over Jim Miller, Evan Elder's tough luck being up 20-18 on all three scorecards against Nazim Sadykhov before a cut forced the fight to be called in the third round, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The stakes are high in the UFC Vegas 69 main event between former strawweight champion Jessica Andrade and surging flyweight prospect Erin Blanchfield. Will championship gold be on the line next for whoever emerges victorious on Saturday at the UFC APEX? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and E. Casey Leydon discuss Blanchfield getting Andrade as a short notice replacement for Taila Santos, and if a title fight will be at stake at 125 for Blanchfield with a win, or Andrade at 115 if she gets her hand raised. Additionally, they discuss other main card matchups that stand out, Jim Miller looking to extend his all-time UFC wins record against Alexander Hernandez, fights and fighters that are flying under the radar, and more in the promotion's first event since a memorable UFC 284 pay-per-view card. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Shavkat Rakhmonov has been a wrecking ball his entire pro career, including his four impressive finishes inside the UFC's octagon. If the 28-year-old can dominate Geoff Neal at UFC 285, how soon could we be talking title fights for Rakhmonov? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the potential road to a title for Rakhmonov and his fight with Neal on March 4. Additionally, listener questions include the IV rules in the UFC, scoring in MMA, Bo Nickal's ceiling in the UFC, Khamzat Chimaev, rumored rosters for this season of The Ultimate Fighter with Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler as coaches, the stakes in the UFC Vegas 69 main event between Jessica Andrade and Erin Blanchfield, Tatiana Suarez's return next weekend, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This past Saturday night, Islam Makhachev defeated Alexander Volkanovski in one of the most fascinating fights in recent memory at UFC 284, but it has also become one of the most divisive fights in its aftermath. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the fallout of Makhachev's first UFC lightweight title defense against the featherweight champion, the stocks of both fighters heading out of the champ vs. champ fight, and other narratives associated with it. Additionally, topics include Yair Rodriguez's impressive performance against Josh Emmett to capture the interim featherweight title, how he matches up with Volkanovski, if that fight will be next, the best of the rest from UFC 284, this weekend in combat sports with UFC Vegas 69 headlined by Jessica Andrade vs. Erin Blanchfield, BKFC's KnuckleMania event, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the highly anticipated matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Luke Thomas. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Luke Thomas: @lthomasnews Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Jones will return to the octagon, in a brand new division, when he fights Ciryl Gane in the main event of UFC 285 on March 4 for the vacant UFC heavyweight title. With over three years removed from his most recent fight, what are the expectations for the man many consider to be the greatest fighter of all-time? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Jones' upcoming return, his appeal to the MMA audience, and stating he wants to bury the hatchet with longtime rival Daniel Cormier. Additionally, listener questions include the fallout of Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, if the UFC should run it right back, the IV rules that have been in play since 2019, Bo Nickal's future ahead of his octagon debut at UFC 285 against Jamie Pickett, low-key fights on the books that aren't getting enough attention, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming off of the sensational UFC 284 pay-per-view event in Perth, Australia, the worldwide leader in MMA is following that massive event with ... well, it's a card. On Saturday, one of the baddest women on the planet, Jessica Andrade, steps in on one week notice to face the hottest prospect in the flyweight division, Erin Blanchfield, and while the rest of the card doesn't live up to the lofty main event, it's still a UFC card, which means the No Bets Barred boys are going to be laying some bets down. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick things off by talking about their tough weekends at UFC 284 before diving into the main event of UFC Vegas 69. Can Erin Blanchfield cement herself as the next flyweight title contender or will Jessica Andrade continue to destroy all in her path? The boys have some thoughts; plus, Flyweight Unders simply cannot lose, and Conner unveils a new mythical fighter with a +1100 price tag attached to him this weekend. Tune in for Episode 35 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Trocação Franca recebe dois ex-campeões do UFC essa semana. Deiveson Figueiredo retorna ao programa para falar sobre o que muda após perder no UFC Rio e lança um desafio ao maior peso-galo da história. Jessica Bate-Estaca fala sobre interromper as férias para substituir Taila Santos em cima da hora e de quebra assinar um novo acordo lucrativo com o UFC. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Mayra Sheetara e Philipe Lins, que também lutam sábado. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca welcomes back a pair of former UFC champions to this week’s episode. Deiveson Figueiredo returns to the show to explain what changes after losing the belt at UFC 283 and call out the bantamweight GOAT. Jessica Andrade discusses a late-notice call to replace Taila Santos and signing a very lucrative deal with the UFC. The podcast also chats with Mayra Bueno Silva and Philipe Lins, who also compete at Saturday’s UFC Vegas. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After an absolute classic between still UFC lightweight champ Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski in the main event of UFC 284, Volkanovski wants to run it right back. With the performance "The Great" had in defeat, should he get an immediate rematch, or should both champions move on to their respective divisions? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the memorable UFC 284 main event, the results of the fight after watching it for a second time, and whether or not an immediate rematch is in play for Volkanovski against Makhachev. Additionally, listener topics include Dan Hooker's accusations of IV use from Makhachev, Jack Della Maddalena's impressive performance and what should be next for him after finishing Randy Brown this past Saturday, Erin Blanchfield now facing Jessica Andrade this Saturday in the headliner of UFC Vegas 69, Yair Rodriguez's big win against Josh Emmett to capture the interim featherweight title, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Has an injustice been inflicted upon the MMA world? With UFC 284 in the books, the Rankings Show returns to sort through the wreckage left behind by Alexander Volkanovski’s loss to Islam Makhachev. Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to discuss the uproar over Volkanovski losing his No. 1 pound-for-pound ranking (5:40) and debate the fallout from a matchup that was supposed to determine the best fighter in the world. Was Makhachev’s performance worthy of the rewards it has reaped? Or has Volkanovski been robbed of what should still be rightfully his? That panel hits those topics plus the debut of two new welterweights in the top 15 (33:20), Johnny Eblen’s place in the middleweight landscape, and more. Then, we bust out our receipts to see who won last year’s predictions competition (57:00) and turn the page anew to predict the three biggest risers and fallers of 2023. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin debate the fallout from UFC 284 including who should be the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski. We’ll discuss how we scored the fight and what ultimately led to Volkanovski losing a close decision to Makhachev after five rounds. The veteran UFC welterweight will also details his own experiences using an IV to rehydrate after weigh-ins versus no longer having that benefit following allegations made by Dan Hooker against Makhachev in the wake of his win on Saturday. Plus Brown will break the news on his next fight coming up in May! All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After the historic champion vs. champion main event of UFC 284 in Perth, Western Australia, what is next for Islam Makhahev after defeating UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski to retain his lightweight title in an instant classic? While it seems obvious that Volkanovski will face the new interim featherweight champ Yair Rodriguez following the best performance of Rodriguez's career, where does Josh Emmett go after getting submitted in the second round of the co-main event? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer those questions from a matchmaking perspective following the promotion's second pay-per-view event of 2023. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Jack Della Maddalena after his first-round finish of Randy Brown, Justin Tafa following his knockout win over Parker Porter, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following a memorable UFC 284 fight card capped off by a classic between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew recap the action from Saturday night's card in Perth. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski will battle it out in a champion vs. champion matchup for the UFC lightweight title in the main event of UFC 284 — a fight that will determine who is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world today. If Volkanovski, the current featherweight champ gets it done and pulls off the upset, where will the win rank all-time? Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee, along with UFC featherweight Calvin Kattar as they discuss the high stakes main event for Saturday's pay-per-view event, where each division goes depending on who leaves Perth victorious, and, in honor of the NFL's big game this weekend, some fun Makhachev vs. Volkanovski prop bets. Additionally, they'll discuss the interim 145-pound title fight between Yair Rodriguez and Josh Emmett, other notable matchups on the card, and take viewer questions at the end. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Calvin Kattar: @CalvinKattar Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are one the eve of a massive champion vs. champion fight for the UFC lightweight title between Islam Makhachev and featherweight titleholder Alexander Volkanovski in the main event of UFC 284. With just weigh-ins left to get through, the final countdown to the pay-per-view event is on. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck talks the big fight between Makhachev and Volkanovski, along with the star-making potential of the bout for both guys. Additionally, listener questions include what could make 2023 the biggest blockbuster year for the UFC ever, how Conor McGregor factors into that, Francis Ngannou's options in boxing and MMA, other notable bouts on the UFC 284 card including the interim title fight between Yair Rodriguez and Josh Emmett, Jack Maddalena vs. Randy Brown, and more. Plus, in a podcast exclusive, Bellator MMA desk host and CBS Sports reporter Amanda Guerra joins the program (1:16:54) to discuss her career, how she found herself on the desk for a major MMA organization, Bellator providing a family atmosphere, being in attendance for the final fight of Fedor Emelianenko's career, memorable moments between John McCarthy and Brennan Ward leading in the latter's big moment at Bellator 290, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Islam Makhachev will look to defend his UFC lightweight title for the first time against the No. 1 fighter in the world, and featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in the main event of UFC 284. With so much in play from a legacy standpoint, is Saturday's title fight the most high stakes fight in UFC history? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the incredible headliner for the lightweight title between Makhachev and Volkanovski, the promotion for the fight, and what is on the line outside of the 155-pound belt. Additionally, topics include the rest of Saturday's card, Dana White announcing the return of Conor McGregor this past Saturday to face Michael Chandler as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter, and in the octagon later this year, Bellator's CBS debut with Bellator 290 and UFC Vegas 68 this past weekend, what is next for Derrick Lewis after his third straight loss, and more. Host Mike Heck will moderate the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and reporter James Lynch. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow James Lynch: @LynchOnSports Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alexander Volkanovski is the biggest underdog on the UFC 284 card this Saturday as he heads into the main event against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Should the current 145-pound king pull off the upset and become a two-division champion, where will he rank on the list of greatest fighters of all-time? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes of Saturday's headliner in Perth, Western Australia, and what a win would do for either guy in terms of legacy. Additionally, listener topics include what's going on with Colby Covington, who Belal Muhammad could fight next, the stakes in the UFC 287 matchup between Gilbert Burns and Jorge Masvidal, a potential Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev fight, Dan Hooker's injury, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This weekend, the superfight of the year goes down when UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev puts his title on the line against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284. It's a battle of the top two pound-for-pound fighters in the sport and so of course the No Bets Barred boys are here to break the action down. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive right into the action, discussing their excitement level for this mega-event and their thoughts on who wins this historic matchup. Then it's on to the rest of the card, including their best bets for the co-main interim title fight between Yair Rodriguez and Josh Emmett, a Wolfpack Wager, and a couple of gimmick parlays, including Conor's Outback Steakhouse Aussie Parlay. Tune in for Episode 34 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Glover Teixeira está de volta ao Trocação Franca pela primeira vez depois de se aposentar do MMA, e falou sobre tudo em uma entrevista exclusiva: a decisão de parar, a derrota para Jamahal Hill, o legado que deixa ao esporte, o futuro do pupilo Alex Poatan, e muito mais. O podcast também entrevista Elves Brenner, estreante no UFC e parceiro de treinos de Charles do Bronx, e ainda recebe o jornalista Adriano Albuquerque, do Combate, para debater Fedor Emelianenko, Conor McGregor, e os principais assuntos de semana. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Glover Teixeira is back to Trocação Franca for the first time since retiring from MMA, and he talks about everything in an exclusive interview: the decision to stop, losing to Jamahal Hill, his legacy, Alex Pereira’s future, and more. The podcast also chats with UFC 284 newcomer and Charles Oliveira teammate Elves Brenner, and welcomes Combate reporter Adriano Albuquerque to discuss Fedor Emelianenko, Conor McGregor, and the hottest topics of the week. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Conor McGregor is set to return to competition later on this year against Michael Chandler. While that will be a huge matchup for the UFC, will McGregor and Chandler opposing one another on the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter be enough for you to watch the season? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the McGregor vs. Chandler matchup, betting odds, and why he believes it will be massive for the show — even if the ratings aren't spectacular. Additionally, listener questions include Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski, the return of Jon Jones at UFC 285 against Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title, Jack Della Maddalena vs. Randy Brown at UFC 284 this Saturday, Kevin Lee re-signing with the UFC, Chris Weidman on the comeback trail, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin talk about Fedor Emelianenko’s retirement, Francis Ngannou’s chances to beat a high-level boxer and what happens if Conor McGregor loses to Michael Chandler. Brown, who is a noted boxing enthusiast, offers his thoughts on Ngannou transitioning to the sport after leaving the UFC while he’s been teasing a potential showdown with heavyweight champion Tyson Fury. Could Ngannou pull off the upset of the century and beat Fury? Brown isn’t so sure about that but what about Ngannou giving Deontay Wilder or Anthony Joshua a tougher night at the office? Brown will also give his initial breakdown to the fight that was just booked between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler, which will happen after they coach against each other on the new season of The Ultimate Fighter. While McGregor remains the biggest star in the sport, could a loss to Chandler potentially spell the end of his fighting career? All this plus we break down the main and co-main events happening at UFC 284 this weekend on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Serghei Spivac made the most of his first UFC main event spot as he dispatched Derrick Lewis in less than three minutes to cap off UFC Vegas 68 and extend his win streak to three fights. After the quick submission win, how much of a step up should Spivac get? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee recap UFC Vegas 68 from a matchmaking perspective and discuss what could be next for Spivak following his biggest career win, along with where Lewis could go. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Devin Clark following his big win over Da Un Jung, Marcin Tybura after defeating Blagoy Ivanov, along with fellow winners Adam Fugitt, Tatsuro Taira, and more. Also, the hosts discuss Bellator's CBS debut with Bellator 290 this past Saturday, why it was a success, and how to improve upon it should they return to the network. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bellator's debut on CBS has come and gone, and the career of the legendary Fedor Emelianenko is officially over, and it wasn't the happy ending most #MMA fans were hoping for. Following Saturday's Bellator 290 event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Emelianenko's first-round TKO loss to heavyweight champion Ryan Bader in the main event, Bader's classy response to how it all played out, whether or not a fight with Francis Ngannou could happen, how the card performed as a whole, Johnny Eblen's stock after a fantastic performance against Anatoly Tokov to retain his middleweight championship, Brennan Ward's sensational finish of Sabah Homasi, Lorenz Larkin's knockout of the year contender, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Saturday morning, UFC president Dana White returned to the promotion's social media channels to announce a variety of news — including the return of Conor McGregor to face Michael Chandler, not only inside the octagon, but as opposing coaches on the upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and New York Ric react to that news, discuss whether or not it was the right pairing, #UFC287 having an official destination on April 8, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow New York Ric: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Should Aljamain Sterling defeat Henry Cejudo in their targeted title fight in May, the current UFC bantamweight champion says he will likely make the move up to 145 pounds. While some fans have been harsh to Sterling for his comments, this shouldn't come as any surprise as he's been pondering this move for quite some time. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Sterling's potential move to featherweight and whether or not — if he beats Cejudo — if he should wait to fight Sean O'Malley before making the leap. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC's promotion for UFC 284 and if it's not getting the attention it rightfully deserves, the crowd at UFC 283, Bellator 290 storylines, why Johnny Eblen has the most to gain and lose during the busy weekend in MMA, UFC Vegas 68, Cory Sandhagen vs. Marlon Vera moving to the main event of UFC San Antonio in March, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fedor Emelianenko has the opportunity to have one of the best retirement stories in the history of MMA as he will challenge for the Bellator heavyweight championship this Saturday. Ahead of Emelianenko's final fight against Ryan Bader in the main event of Bellator 290, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew preview the matchup and discuss why "The Last Emperor" could get it done in his swan song, Johnny Eblen's opportunity to boost his star potential against Anatoly Tokov in the co-main event, the super fun main card opener between Sabah Homasi and Brennan Ward, the impact of being on CBS, and more. Additionally, the panel previews UFC Vegas 68 headlined by a heavyweight tilt between Derrick Lewis and Serghei Spivac, what is at stake for "The Black Beast," the return of Doo Ho Choi for the first time since 2019, Tatsuro Taira's potential, and Laura Sanko's UFC color commentary debut. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

For the final time in an over two-decade legendary career, Fedor Emelianenko will make the walk to compete in an MMA fight. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the swan song for "The Last Emperor" when he faces Ryan Bader for the heavyweight title in the main event of Bellator 290, and the fight card as a whole which will serve as the Bellator debut on CBS. Additionally, topics include Dana White's big announcement this past Friday regarding UFC 287, including Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya 2 in the headliner, along with Gilbert Burns vs. Jorge Masvidal at the April 8 event, Max Holloway's return to the octagon against Arnold Allen at the UFC's April 15 event, this Saturday's UFC Vegas6 8 card headlined by Derrick Lewis vs. Serghei Spivac, and more. Host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Eric "New York Ric" Jackman. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow New York Ric: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With a historic event for Bellator MMA this Saturday, they are putting their best foot forward in the heads up battle with the UFC, which includes the final fight of Fedor Emelianenko's legendary career, along with the sendoff "The Last Emperor" will receive. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Saturday's doubleheader, and explains why Bellator 290 is far better than UFC Vegas 68 on paper. Additionally, listener questions include Bellator president Scott Coker's announcement of a host of MMA legends attending the event to honor Emelianenko following his heavyweight title fight with Ryan Bader, the hopes of seeing more things like that to remember the history of the sport, Bloody Elbow's future, whether or not UFC 284 is getting enough promotion, Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski, how Kamaru Usman matches up with Leon Edwards ahead of UFC 286, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After taking a week off, the UFC is back and, for the first time in 2023, so is Bellator! UFC Vegas 68 takes place late on Saturday, headlined by a heavyweight title between Derrick Lewis and Sergey Spivak, but before that, all-time great Fedor Emelianenko makes the final walk of his career, challenging Ryan Bader for the heavyweight title at Bellator 290. And as always, the No Bets Barred boys are back as well, covering all the best betting angles for both cards. In this episode, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dissect both fight cards and answer important questions like: does Derrick Lewis have anything left, is Johnny Eblen as good as he looked his last time out, and should you bet Tatsuro Taira at -1150? Plus, you'll hear Conner and Jed react as the betting line on Ryan Bader PLUMMETS in real time. Tune in for Episode 33 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Trocação Franca está de volta com uma resenha sobre os assuntos mais importantes da semana no MMA, debatendo com o jornalista Carlos Antunes sobre a revanche Alex Poatan x Israel Adesanya, a possível luta entre Charles do Bronx e Beneil Dariush, José Aldo e Francis Ngannou no boxe, e Conor McGregor no TUF. O podcast trás, ainda, uma entrevista com Neiman Gracie, companheiro de treinos de Dariush que luta no sábado, no Bellator. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca is back with a debate about the MMA hottest topics of the week. Joined by journalist Carlos Antunes, we discuss Alex Pereira x Israel Adesanya 2, a potential clash between Charles Oliveira and Beneil Dariush, how Jose Aldo and Francis Ngannou will fare in a boxing ring, and more. The podcast also features an interview with Neiman Gracie, a teammate of Dariush, who returns Saturday to the Bellator cage. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Over the last few days, a slew of massive fights have been announced for the UFC, including two big ones for UFC 287 with Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya 2, and Gilbert Burns vs. Jorge Masvidal. On Monday evening, another big fight was confirmed in the featherweight division between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen for the main event of the promotion's April 15 fight card. While the matchup is great on paper, was it the right fight to make for the division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to all of those bouts, and why the Holloway vs. Allen matchmaking is very risky right now. Additionally, listener questions include a potential Leon Edwards fight against Masvidal if both guys are victorious in their next bouts, Bellator 290, if Fedor Emelianenko is the greatest heavyweight of all-time, Shavkat Rakhmonov's next move if he defeats Geoff Neal at UFC 285, who Dustin Poirier's next opponent could be, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer is back and this week Matt Brown and Damon Martin discuss the latest news happening around combat sports, including Fedor Emelianenko’s retirement fight happening at Bellator 290. Emelianenko is widely regarded as one of the greatest heavyweights of all-time, but does his résumé really top everybody else to make him the best to ever do it? Also this week, we’ll discuss the recently announced fights with Alex Pereira going to war with Israel Adesanya in a rematch while Gilbert Burns prepares to clash with Jorge Masvidal. Brown will also give his thoughts on Jake Paul signing up to face Tommy Fury as well as his recent deal to join the PFL roster where he expects to make the transition into mixed martial arts. The UFC welterweight veteran offers Paul some friendly advice about making the move into MMA while adding that he’d even be willing to help him get ready for his debut. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. the Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, and on the second episode of 2023, the MMA Fighting crew remembers the best of Fedor Emelianenko as he prepares for the final fight of his legendary career. Starting his career in 2000, Emelianenko rose to prominence in Pride Fighting Championships, claiming the heavyweight championship, and the title of "Baddest Man on the Planet" in 2003, a title he held until his loss to Fabricio Werdum in 2010. In 2017, Emelianenko moved to Bellator MMA where, after a 23-year career, he fights for the final time this Saturday, in a rematch with Ryan Bader. In honor of Fedor's impending retirement, host Jed Meshew is joined by MMAFighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and E. Casey Leydon to remember their favorite moments of the GOAT’s career. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow E. Casey Leydon @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the UFC, Bellator, and major MMA promotions off this past weekend, MMA Fighting's matchmaking show decided to give back to fans of the program with a special "Ask Us Anything" show. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee take listener submitted questions about the legacy of Conor McGregor as a mixed martial artist and UFC champion. Additionally, fan topics include the 2023 Royal Rumble, Bo Nickal's ceiling, ranking UFC prospects' title hopes — including Muhammad Mokaev, Ilia Topuria, and Movsar Evloev, Aljamain Sterling at featherweight, a potential matchup between Khamzat Chimaev and Colby Covington, dark horse fighters of the year, comparing careers of Dustin Poirier and Tony Ferguson, if Bellator, PFL, or ONE can take a big step towards the UFC in the top promotion conversation, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC president Dana White made a slew of big fight announcements on Friday — some that were already confirmed, and others that were not — including a massive pair of fights for the UFC's April pay-per-view event, UFC 287. Following White's special announcement stream, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Shaun Al-Shatti react to the Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya rematch for the UFC middleweight title headlining the April 8 event, Gilbert Burns vs. Jorge Masvidal for the co-main event, Kevin Holland's next bout being booked, will a second title fight still be added with the Burns vs. Masvidal bout coming together as quick as it did, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The MMA community is giving their opinions on a potential matchup between Conor McGregor and Tony Ferguson for McGregor's return fight, as well as the possibility of them coaching against one another on the next season of The Ultimate Fighter. Is that the fight to make? On an all-new episode of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes listener questions about that piece of business should it come to fruition, and if there are better options in play for the former two-division champion. Additionally, listener topics include UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill and the hopes for a fight with Jiri Prochazka in his first defense, Arman Tsarukyan calling out Michael Chandler, fighters claiming to be overlooked when they're really not, Bella Mir signing the UFC's first NIL deal, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the end of UFC 283 this past Saturday, Jamahal Hill left the arena in Rio de Janeiro as the UFC light heavyweight champion after beating Glover Teixeira in the main event. With his incredible performance, a divisive conversation began about where he sits in the overall rankings at 205 pounds. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Hill's title win, where he ranks in the division, and what could be next for the new champion whether or not Jiri Prochazka is ready to come back for Hill's first defense. Additionally, topics include the reaction to Teixeira retiring and what he meant to the sport, Brandon Moreno stopping Deiveson Figueiredo in the UFC 283 co-main event to regain the flyweight title, Figueiredo's options at 135, other standout performances from the UFC's first PPV event of the year, other news and notes from the past week, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jamahal Hill is the current UFC light heavyweight champion after defeating Glover Teixeira in the main event of UFC 283 in his best performance to date. Following the victory, Hill has had a chip on his shoulder and feels disrespected by the MMA community. Does he have a point, or is this just a unique situation? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers listener questions regarding Hill and his championship victory, and how he is being viewed amongst the top fighters in his division. Additionally, topics include the targeted bantamweight title fight between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo at UFC 287 and the difference between the words "targeted" and "set," a potential Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad fight, where Colby Covington and Khamzat Chimaev fit, UFC San Antonio on March 25, UFC ticket prices, and much more You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jamahal Hill is the new UFC champion — but is he really the No. 1 light heavyweight in the world? The MMA Fighting Rankings Show returns to make sense of a wild start to 2023! Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to sort through the wreckage of UFC 283 and try to make sense of the light heavyweight division. Does Hill's new status as UFC champion mean he should automatically be considered the best 205-pounder in MMA? And does Brandon Moreno's series-clinching win over Deiveson Figueiredo put him over ONE Championship's Demetrious Johnson? That gang hits those topics plus Jailton Almeida's future in two divisions, Jed rocketing Umar Nurmagomedov up the bantamweight ranks, and more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O UFC 283 entrou para a história do MMA com as aposentadorias de Glover Teixeira e Maurício Shogun, a entrada de José Aldo no Hall da Fama da organização e o desfecho da tetralogia Brandon Moreno x Deiveson Figueiredo, além do batizado de Jailton Malhadinho e a nova geração do MMA brasileiro. O Trocação Franca dessa semana repercute tudo isso e muito mais com Alexandre Pantoja, atleta reserva no UFC Rio e próximo da fila para enfrentar Moreno pelo título dos moscas. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. UFC 283 will go down in history for the retirement of Glover Teixeira and Shogun Rua, Jose Aldo’s induction to the Hall of Fame, the last chapter of the Brandon Moreno vs. Deiveson Figueiredo tetralogy, and the coronation of Jailton Almeida and the new generation of Brazilian MMA. Trocação Franca breaks down all that and more alongside Alexandre Pantoja, the UFC 283 backup fighter and next man in line for Moreno’s flyweight belt. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 283 is officially in the books with two new champions in Jamahal Hill and Brandon Moreno. The overall fallout of the card comes from many different directions, which includes whether or not the new light heavyweight champion is getting the credit he deserves. On an all-new Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes listener questions about Hill's dominant win over Glover Teixeira in Saturday's main event, and how he is being viewed overall in the 205-pound division. Additionally, topics include Brandon Moreno's impressive title win over Deiveson Figueiredo in the co-main event, Figueiredo moving up to 135, Lauren Murphy reacting to critics following her loss to Jessica Andrade, the Bonfim brothers delivering big time at UFC 283, Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, Aljamain Sterling's potential move to 145, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 283 in the books, The Fighter vs. The Writer reacts to the biggest moments on the first pay-per-view card for 2023, which included Jamahal Hill becoming light heavyweight champion with a dominant showcase against Glover Teixeira. UFC welterweight Matt Brown will give his thoughts on the fight as well as Teixeira’s announcement that he’ll be retiring from the sport. Brown also reacts to Mauricio “Shogun” Rua’s final fight and he offers his argument about why more coaches need to be willing to throw in the towel to save a fighter. In fact, Brown says if he was in the same situation, he would have stopped the fight between Lauren Murphy and Jessica Andrade after Murphy absorbed a tremendous amount of punishment over three rounds. Finally, Brown reveals that he’s about to start his own training camp with a fight expected to be booked in the near future and he details why he’s coming back to compete again. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the first UFC pay-per-view event becomes a thing of the past, what's next for the new light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill after his incredible performance against the now retired Glover Teixeira in the main event of UFC 283 on Saturday night in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil? What about the now undisputed flyweight champion Brandon Moreno after his third-round TKO win in the co-main event, as well as his longtime rival Deiveson Figueiredo? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer those questions from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Gilbert Burns after his near flawless submission win over Neil Magny in the welterweight featured bout, Jessica Andrade following her dominant decision win over the ultra tough Lauren Murphy, Johnny Walker, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jamahal Hill and Brandon Moreno played spoiler in a big way at UFC 283, leaving Rio de Janeiro, Brazil with UFC gold wrapped around their waists after impressive performances against the hometown heroes. Following the UFC's first pay-per-view event of 2023, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Hill's unbelievable performance in the main event against Glover Teixeira to win the light heavyweight title, and subsequently end the legendary career of Teixeira as he announced his retirement. Additionally, they discuss Moreno likely ending the rivalry with Devieson Figueiredo after earning a third-round TKO stoppage victory to win the undisputed flyweight title, Gilbert Burns' big win, Jessica Andrade's dominance, Jailton Almeida's incredibly high ceiling, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The first UFC pay-per-view of 2023 is upon us and two world titles are on the line. Will Glover Teixeira send the fans home from UFC 283 happy, or will Jamahal Hill spoil Teixeira's homecoming and become champion? Ahead of Saturday's event from Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee discuss the vacant light heavyweight title fight between Teixeira and Hill, where the pressure lies, and if Hill is essentially playing with house money in his first opportunity at a UFC belt. Additionally, the trio talks the fourth meeting for the flyweight title in the co-main event between Devieson Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno, how the rivalry has played out, Mauricio "Shogun" Rua's final fight, under the radar matchups, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

At the end of Saturday's UFC 283 event, hopefully, a new light heavyweight champion will be crowned in either Glover Teixeira or Jamahal Hill. If a champ is crowned, where will that person go next in the UFC's 205-pound division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the main event of the UFC's return to Brazil this weekend, the stakes, and how the fight could play out. Additionally, listener questions include Jon Jones vs. Ciryl Gane, the low ratings for Dana White's Power Slap League following the series premiere on Wednesday, what title fights could be in play for the UFC's April and May pay-per-view events, ONE Championship's U.S. debut in May, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC president Dana White revealed this past Saturday that Francis Ngannou is no longer heavyweight champion, is out of the promotion, and is an unrestricted free agent — which Ngannou also confirmed on The MMA Hour earlier this week. After hearing both sides, what are the biggest takeaways from this big news? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses the fallout of Ngannou moving on from the UFC, along with how White laid it all out following UFC Vegas 67. Additionally, topics include the UFC 285 main event between Jon Jones and Ciryl Gane for the vacant heavyweight title, along with the rumored Amanda Nunes vs. Irene Aldana and Valentina Shevchenko vs. Alexa Grasso title fights for the March 4 card, this Saturday's UFC 283 card headlined by Glover Teixeira vs. Jamahal Hill for the light heavyweight title, Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Brandon Moreno 4 for flyweight gold, the best of the rest of the UFC's first pay-per-view of the year, and more. Host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's José Youngs to discuss the biggest stories in MMA, plus answer some of your questions on the tail end of the program. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Francis Ngannou no longer in the UFC, he seems to have many options in play — whether it be in boxing or MMA. Ngannou said on The MMA Hour that he wants to continue competing in MMA, but which promotion would suit him best for what he wants? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers listener questions about the Ngannou situation, and what promotion he could, or should, sign with moving forward. Additionally, topics include the UFC 283 main event between Glover Teixeira and Jamahal Hill, Usman Nurmagomedov's future and whether or not he could end up in the UFC some day, some of the low-key storylines for Saturday's pay-per-view event, if influencer MMA bouts could be a thing, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, and on the first episode of 2023, the MMA Fighting crew remembers the best of Mauricio "Shogun" Rua as he prepares for the final fight of his incredible career. Entering into MMA in 2002 as the little brother of Murilo "Ninja" Rua, Shogun quickly made a name for himself with one of the most legendary runs ever in 2005, winning the Pride Middleweight Grand Prix with career-defining performances against Quinton "Rampage" Jackson, Antonio Rogerio Nogueira, Alistair Overeem, and Ricardo Arona. Rua then joined the UFC in 2007 where after some initial struggles, he was able to capture the UFC light heavyweight title from Lyoto Machida, and he did all of this before turning 30 years old. In honor of Shogun's impending retirement, host Jed Meshew is joined by MMAFighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti and Guilherme Cruz. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Guilherme Cruz @guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC is back in Brazil! That's right, the UFC's 2023 PPV season kicks off this weekend with the top MMA promotion in the world making its long-awaited return to Brazil for UFC 283. Headlined by a battle for the vacant light heavyweight title between Glover Teixeira and Jamahal Hill, UFC 283 features 15 fights with 17 Brazilians competing and the No Bets Barred Boys have the answers for which of these hometown heroes will get the job done on Saturday. In this episode, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive right into this mega-card, finding common ground on the main event but then quickly ending up on opposite ends of several of the marquee matchups this weekend. They don't just stop with the big fights though as Jed ends up with a bet on every single fight on the card, including some huge long shot flyers, and Conner rips off multiple parlays. In the end, the boys end up with nearly 30 bets between them, a fitting start to the 2023 pay-per-view campaign. Tune in for Episode 32 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the UFC returned to in-cage action this past Saturday in Las Vegas, the event — and the fallout from it — took a back seat to a bunch of massive news that was revealed by Dana White. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to White's UFC Vegas 67 post-fight press conference when he revealed that Francis Ngannou is no longer the heavyweight champion, or a promotional heavyweight in general after Ngannou turned down their latest contract offer, and that a new champion would be crowned at UFC 285 on March 4 when the returning Jon Jones makes his heavyweight debut against Ciryl Gane in the main event. Additionally, listener topics include whether or not Ngannou leaving the UFC will hurt the promotion long term, where Ngannou could end up, the Jones vs. Gane matchup, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin tackle the latest news from around combat sports including Endeavor’s lack of response to Dana White being caught on video slapping his wife and Francis Ngannou ultimately deciding to sever ties with the UFC. In the aftermath of White’s actions, he has said that he doesn’t know what kind of punishment he’s supposed to face but what about Endeavor? Does the company that owns the UFC have some responsibility to hold White accountable in the wake of his domestic violence episode? Also on the show this week, Brown and Martin discuss the ordeal surrounding Ngannou and the news that he’s officially a free agent after being unable to come to a deal with the UFC. Did the UFC make the right move in letting Ngannou walk? What could be next for Ngannou now that he’s free and clear to sign with any other promotion? Is he headed to boxing? What optiosn are available for him in MMA? We’ll also discuss Jon Jones moving to heavyweight and whether or not his biggest obstacle to becoming champion has already been removed now that Ngannou is out of the UFC. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Who will be our 12 UFC champions by the end of 2023? The gang returns to the roundtable to predict the upcoming championship slate and debate the biggest winners and biggest upsets of the next 12 months. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow José Youngs @JoseYoungs Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Semana agitada para o Brasil no MMA, com o UFC retornando ao Rio de Janeiro e Cara de Sapato entrando na casa mais vigiada do país para o BBB 23, e o Trocação Franca repercute tudo com a companhia dos jornalistas Luis Fernando Coutinho e Raphael Marinho. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com três atletas do UFC 283: Jailton Malhadinho, Jéssica Bate-Estaca e Melk Costa. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It’s a busy week for Brazilian MMA with the UFC returning to Rio de Janeiro and Antonio Carlos Junior making his Big Brother Brasil debut, and Trocação Franca reacts to everything with top MMA journalists Luis Fernando Coutinho and Raphael Marinho. This week’s podcast also features interviews with UFC 283 fighters Jailton Almeida, Jessica Andrade and Melk Costa. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While the UFC returning to action seemed like the MMA community was returning to some sense of normalcy following a chaotic start to 2023, that all changed very quickly before Saturday came to an end as UFC president Dana White announced that Francis Ngannou was no longer the UFC heavyweight champion, or a UFC fighter at all, and that Jon Jones and Ciryl Gane will fight for the vacant heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 285 in March. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss Ngannou becoming an unrestricted free agent, predict who his next opponent could be, and promotion he will fight for. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Sean Strickland following his short notice decision win against Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Vegas 67. Future matchups are also discussed for Dan Ige, Roman Kopylov, Raquel Pennington, Umar Nurmagomedov, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou is officially a free agent, and a new heavyweight champion will be crowned on March 4 as Dana White confirmed that Jon Jones will return at UFC 285 to face Ciryl Gane for the vacant title in the main event. Additionally, Sean Strickland went out to the octagon on less than a week's notice and defeated the surging Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of the UFC's first card of 2023. Where does Strickland go from a huge short notice win? Following UFC Vegas 67, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Shaheen Al-Shatti react to the Jones vs. Gane fight, Strickland's victory, Dan Ige's incredible walk-off KO against Damon Jackson, Umar Nurmagomedov's frightening finish of Raoni Barcelos in the main card opener, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Sean Strickland is stepping in on less than a week's notice to compete in his second straight main event in as many UFC cards as he faces the surging Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Vegas 67. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew discuss the late changing headliner on the promotion's first card of 2023, the stakes involved, Dan Ige looking to get back on track against the streaking Damon Jackson in the featherweight co-main event, the low-key bangers, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We are less than two months away from the UFC's first U.S. pay-per-view of the year, and as of now, there has not been a main event, or any title fight announced. While the clock is certainly ticking, will the UFC pull a big rabbit out of their hats? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the UFC 285 card — which is scheduled to take place March 4 in Las Vegas — and what could possibly serve as the main event. Additionally, listener topics include Dana White's media scrum ahead of UFC Vegas 67, Beneil Dariush throwing some shade at Dustin Poirier, Jimmy Flick's return to the octagon on Saturday after a short retirement, the importance of the post-fight call out, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC president Dana White began the UFC Vegas 67 media day on Wednesday by speaking with reporters about the video showing him slapping his wife during an altercation on New Year's Eve. While White is being open, is it sending the right message overall? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss White's media day scrum, him asking people not to defend him, and how the promotion and Endeavor continue to remain silent. Additionally, they'll discuss Khabib Nurmagomedov stepping away from MMA and how that could effect Islam Makahchev ahead of his upcoming lightweight title fight against Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, A.J. McKee re-signing with Bellator and the official reveal of the lightweight grand prix, Saturday's UFC Vegas 67 event headlined by Sean Strickland and Nassourdine Imavov, and more. Host Mike Heck and MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew will discuss those topics, plus take some of your questions at the end of the show. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dana White spoke with reporters on Wednesday during the UFC Vegas 67 media day to discuss the video of him being shown slapping his wife on New Year's Eve. While White took ownership for a lot of things, one thing the UFC president said that stuck out was that the promotion, the fighters, and the business of the UFC would all suffer if White were to be suspended, or ousted from his position. Is that true? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives further reaction to White's scrum, and that comment in particular – arguing that the UFC would be just fine without him in that position. Additionally, listeners give their thoughts on how this situation continues to be handled, while also asking about Francis Ngannou, ONE Championship, Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski, Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Vegas 67, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC president Dana White unexpectedly showed up at Wednesday's UFC Vegas 67 media day to address the video release that showed him slapping his wife Anne on New Year's Eve. White reiterated his wrongdoing, said multiple times that nobody should be defending him, and also revealed he will not face any repercussions from the promotion, or parent company Endeavor. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Damon Martin react to White's scrum, how he's handled everything better than everyone else involved, what he did well, what was a miss, if there were any surprises, and if there's any expectations that more will be said in the future from those involved. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

2023 is upon us and the UFC is back, baby! That's right, this weekend kicks off the UFC's 2023 campaign and as such the No Bets Barred Boys are back with a full gambling breakdown of UFC Vegas 67. In this episode, Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin by celebrating the University of Georgia Bulldawgs winning BACK-TO-BACK college football national championships before hopping into a breakdown of this weekend's card. Topics include: Sean Strickland's chances coming in on short notice against Nassourdine Imavov, Umar Nurmagomedov as a massive favorite, and the 2023 prospects of Flyweight Unders. Tune in for Episode 31 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dana White foi filmado agredindo a esposa na noite de réveillon e os proprietários do UFC seguem em silêncio sobre isso. O Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe o streamer e jornalista Tarso Doria para repercutir essa e outras polêmicas que mexeram com o MMA no início de 2023. O podcast também traz entrevistas com Ketlen Vieira, Raoni Barcelos e Claudio Ribeiro, que lutam sábado no UFC Vegas, e o influencer paulista FaZe Temperrr, que luta boxe com o youtuber KSI em Londres, sábado. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Dana White was caught on tape hitting his wife on New Years’ Eve and UFC owners are still silent about it. Trocação Franca welcomes journalist and streamer Tarso Doria to discuss that and other controversial topics that have shaken the MMA world in 2023. The podcast also features interviews with UFC fighters Ketlen Vieira, Raoni Barcelos, and Claudio Ribeiro, plus KSI opponent FaZe Temperrr. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

What will be next for current UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers multiple questions involving Ngannou, if he's a free agent as some have reported, status of a potential fight with Jon Jones, if Ngannou signing with the PFL would have a huge impact, and more. Additionally, listener topics include Dana White, the promotion and parent company Endeavor continuing with their silence, Sean Strickland stepping in to fight Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 67 for Kelvin Gastelum, a rumored lightweight matchup between Justin Gaethje and Rafael Fiziev, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC color commentator Paul Felder and veteran lightweight contender Kevin Lee highlight the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. With Matt Brown sidelined this week, Felder steps in to help look ahead at the biggest storylines happening in the UFC in 2023 including the potential return of Conor McGregor and Jon Jones finally making his debut at heavyweight. Also on the show, Kevin Lee will address his free agency after he initially inked a multi-fight deal with Eagle FC and how he’s targeting the PFL as his next fighting home. Lee will also detail his plans to compete at welterweight and what it would take for him to go back to 155 pounds again. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Could 2023 be a year that features both Conor McGregor and Jon Jones competing inside the UFC octagon? Will Khamzat Chimaev find his way to a UFC title fight? On a very special edition of On To the Next One, those questions — and a lot more — are presented during the 2023 predictions extravaganza. Hosts Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee will go through a slew of buy/sell questions presented by listeners about a variety of topics — including Dana White, Nate Diaz, Nick Diaz, Paddy Pimblett, Dillon Danis, Francis Ngannou, Amanda Nunes, Jake Paul, Bellator, the PFL, and much more. Additionally, they will make their choices for who will end the year as UFC champions in each division, along with their bold and spicy predictions for the world of MMA in 2023. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It appears that Dana White's Power Slap League is still going to air on TBS in January, but is that the right decision considering what has happened to begin the new year? On an all-new Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to TBS putting the Power Slap program back on their schedule despite video being released of White slapping his wife during a dispute on New Year's Eve. Additionally, listeners give their thoughts on the situation involving White, what an appropriate response and punishment should be, what could be next for Jorge Masvidal and Dustin Poirier in 2023, the UFC division that could have the most shakeup this year, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We're only five days into 2023, and the year in MMA is already off to a very dark start — including UFC president Dana White being shown on video slapping his wife during a New Year's Eve party in Cabo San Lucas. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss their reactions to the video of the incident involving White, and the silence from the promotion, parent company Endeavor, and others. Additionally, topics include Jake Paul signing with the PFL, Dillon Danis no longer fighting KSI in a boxing match on Jan. 14, the Bellator vs. RIZIN card this past Saturday in Japan, and more. If time allows, we'll also take some questions from the viewers. Host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew to discuss these topics. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Since the release of a video showing UFC president Dana White slapping his wife, many have asked and wondered what the response will be from the promotion, parent company Endeavor, and anybody else in business with White. Thus far, the response has been silence — but is that a surprise? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the deafening silence from all involved in regards to the New Year's Eve video in Cabo San Lucas, and if there will be any response at all from those involved. Additionally, topics include Jake Paul signing a deal with the PFL to compete, the developing story regarding former UFC fighter Phil Baroni, Jorge Masvidal's chances to get a title shot against Leon Edwards if Kamaru Usman is unable to compete in March, under the radar fights that could be made, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's a brand new year! So hey...let's start some fires, shall we? On the first Rankings Show of 2023, co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by four of their fellow MMA Fighting rankings panelists — Damon Martin, Jed Meshew, Mike Heck, and E. Casey Leydon — for the rankings committee’s second annual Airing of Grievances. It’s a festivus for the rest of us, if you will. The crew retakes their seats around the ol’ roundtable and demands answers for the worst calls and most puzzling decisions by their fellow rankers in 2022. Why is this fighter so high on your rankings? Why is this one so low?? How you could possibly leave this person out?!? It’s the return of our own secret Santa gift exchange to close out the holiday season — only instead of gifts, we're handing out another heaping helping of accountability. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Mike Heck @MikeHeck_JR Follow E. Casey Leydon @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After taking a few weeks off for the holidays, the No Bets Barred boys are back and ready to kick things off for 2023! In this episode, Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin by recapping their experiences at the Peach Bowl, before diving into the 2022 MMA Gambling Awards, including the Best, Worst, and Sweatiest Bets, plus the first ever Gambling Fighter of the Year. Then the NBB boys turn their attention to this year, with Conner and Jed giving out their Futures for 2023, resulting in 25 total bets to keep track of for the rest of the year. Tune in for Episode 30 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Crise? O Brasil segue o único país a ter mais de um cinturão no UFC apesar das derrotas de Charles do Bronx e Glover Teixeira — e ainda pode chegar a cinco, caso Glover e Deiveson vençam no UFC Rio. O Trocação Franca recebe o narrador André Azevedo, voz do UFC Fight Pass Brasil, para apontar quem mais tem chances de trazer títulos em 2023. O podcast entrevista também Quemuel Ottoni, único algoz de Alex Poatan no MMA, e Lucas Hulk, ícone do jiu-jítsu, que lutam no PFL Challenger Series. Brazil remains the only country currently holding more than one UFC belt despite Charles Oliveira and Glover Teixeira's past defeats — and the country can get to five titles simultaneously if Teixeira and Deiveson Figueiredo are victorious at UFC 283. Trocação Franca welcomes UFC Fight Pass commentator Andre Azevedo to look at who else can bring titles to the country in 2023. The podcast also features interviews with PFL Challenger Series fighters Quemuel Ottoni, the only man to beat Alex Pereira in MMA, and jiu-jitsu ace Lucas Barbosa. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Monday evening, a video of a physical altercation involving Dana White was released that showed the UFC president slap his wife on New Year's Eve. White subsequently spoke to TMZ to discuss what happened and that he and his wife both apologized to one another, but other big questions loom in the aftermath. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the video of the incident in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico and asks what will be done in response from a UFC and Endeavor perspective moving forward, and what impact there would be if White were to step down, or be removed from his position. Additionally, listener topics include Damir Ismagulov retiring, the horrifying moment during Monday Night Football with Demar Hamlin, the future of the featherweight division should Alexander Volkanovski defeat Islam Makhachev at UFC 283, Ilia Topuria's ceiling, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

To kick off 2023, The Fighter vs. The Writer will look ahead and preview every division in the UFC and who sits as the biggest threat to the reigning champion. UFC welterweight Matt Brown will give his thoughts on every current champion including the chances that Francis Ngannou will return to the promotion and if his biggest obstacle at staying champion will be Jon Jones moving to heavyweight. Brown will also detail why he believes Henry Cejudo is the most dangerous threat to current UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling or any other contender coming up at 135 pounds. What about lightweight where Islam Makhachev appears poised to make a long run as champion? Can anyone challenge him in 2023? Check out the full episode preview looking ahead at the UFC in 2023 on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Bellator MMA vs. RIZIN co-promotional event is in the books, and there was a lot to unpack from the New Year's Eve extravaganza, including a hint of rich irony. On an all-new bonus edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck hits record and gives his overall reaction to the card, which took place at the iconic Saitama Super Arena in Japan. Topics include the grade for the event — and why the marks were skewed a bit higher — the matchups, A.J. McKee stealing the show for his main event fight against Roberto de Souza and potentially becoming the face of the promotion, the tape delay misstep, and how it led to an interesting discovery in the overall fallout of the event, thoughts on doing the concept again, other ideas on how it could be shaped together, how the build to the event got out of hand at times by taking focus off of what was important, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With 2022 being such a crazy year in the world of mixed martial arts, we felt it was important to look back at the predictions that were made heading into a memorable year for the sport. In part one of our two-part predictions extravaganza, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee look back on some of the responses they had to listener questions in regards to what 2022 was going to bring. Topics include Conor McGregor's activity for the year, whether or not Jon Jones would fight Francis Ngannou for the heavyweight title, or at all in 2022, Nick Diaz and Nate Diaz competing, Kayla Harrison, Colby Covington and Jorge Masvidal's rivalry, Kamaru Usman's championship status, Khamzat Chimaev, Jake Paul, UFC champions in each division, bold predictions for the year, and more. In addition, we will need you help for part two: our 2023 predictions extravaganza episode. Submit your "buy or sell" questions the same way you send your matchmaking suggestions to Mike or AK on Twitter, Instagram, or email by Thursday, Jan. 5 — and, please, be as creative as you'd like. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Whether Khamzat Chimaev stays at welterweight, or makes the permanent move to middleweight, most would believe that one more victory would set Chimaev up for a title fight in either division. But will the timing work out for "Borz" to get his shot in 2023? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Chimaev's title prospects in 2023, and answers whether or not he'll get a crack at UFC gold before featherweight Ilia Topuria. Additionally, listener questions include Bellator vs. RIZIN and which promotion has the better chance to sweep, Jamahal Hill's chances against Glover Teixeria, fights to look forward to in 2023, some of the best moments of this year, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With just a couple of days left in the year, it's almost time to say goodbye to 2022, and hello to 2023. In the sport of MMA, there was certainly a lot to like, and a lot that needs to be improved upon — from the UFC, to Bellator, and beyond. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew bring you the second annual BTL Promotional Festivus — where they will grade the UFC for their 2022 performance, both in and out of the octagon, along with their airing of grievances for things that happened negatively throughout the course of the year. Additionally, the panel does the same for Bellator MMA, PFL, and ONE Championship, and give their thoughts on things they did better from the year prior, and other ideas to bring into 2023. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephan Bonnar sadly passed away at the age of 45 recently, but the impact he had on the UFC — most notably with his incredible battle on the finale of the inaugural season of The Ultimate Fighter — will be remembered forever. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the news of Bonnar's unfortunate passing, his legacy, Bonnar's incredible battle with Forrest Griffin at the TUF 1 Finale and its importance for the UFC, and much more. Additionally, listener questions include MMA Fighting's year-end awards, Bellator MMA vs. RIZIN and the card not airing live in the U.S., Derek Brunson vs. Dricus Du Plessis added to UFC 285, Brandon Moreno's new team ahead of UFC 283, Glover Teixeira vs. Jamahal Hill for the light heavyweight title, Khamzat Chimaev, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O UFC já encerrou seu calendário em 2022 e já tem muita gente fazendo suas listas de melhores do ano, mas ainda tem muita luta boa pra acontecer antes do réveillon. No último Trocação Franca do ano, o podcast recebe os três brasileiros escalados para o aguardado cross promotion entre Bellator e RIZIN no Japão, os campeões Patrício Pitbull, Kleber Koike e Roberto Satoshi. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The UFC has already ended its season in 2022 and many people are making their best of the year lists, but there are plenty of good fights set to go down before New Year’s Eve. The final Trocação Franca of the year welcomes the three Brazilian champions scheduled to compete in the much-anticipated Bellator vs. RIZIN cross-promotion in Japan, Patricio Pitbull, Kleber Koike and Roberto Satoshi. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

When it came to MMA, 2022 was one heck of a wild ride. Join the MMA Fighting staff as we look back at the biggest highs, breakout stars, and most jaw-rattling moments of 2022 in a special year-end retrospective. We’re honoring all the nights that defined one of the wildest 12-month stretches in recent MMA history — and handing out plenty of hardware in celebration of the knockouts, submissions, fights, fighters, and rookies who made sure 2022 was a year that won’t soon be forgotten. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Mike Heck @MickHeck_JR Follow Josè Youngs @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As the year winds down, MMA Fighting will be giving out its 2022 awards celebrating the best the sport of mixed martial arts had to offer throughout the year. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel brings you the annual 2022 year-end awards preview, as MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee give their top-five rankings for all of the categories that will be awarded beginning Sunday, Dec. 25 — which includes knockout of the year, fight of the year, rookie of the year, submission of the year, and fighter of the year. Additionally, they react to the news of the UFC's pay-per-view prices being raised to $79.99 in 2023, beginning with UFC 283 on Jan. 21. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC ended their 2022 calendar year this past Saturday with UFC Vegas 66, but on Wednesday, it was revealed that it will be a little bit more expensive to watch their pay-per-view events in 2023. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the news that UFC pay-per-views will now cost $79.99 — a $5 increase from 2022 — beginning with UFC 283 on Jan. 21. Additionally, listener topics include Dillon Danis' recent interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour, Arman Tsarukyan's win over Damir Ismagulov at UFC Vegas 66, Bellator vs. RIZIN, Taila Santos vs. Erin Blanchfield at the UFC's Feb. 18 event, Alexander Volkanovski, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Um dos sambistas mais populares do país, Dudu Nobre tem raízes profundas no mundo das lutas. Em uma div retida resenha com o Trocação Franca, o carioca contou várias de suas experiências como fã do esporte, como a curiosa interação com Steven Seagal no vestiário de Anderson Silva antes da luta com Vitor Belfort, a “zicada” em José Aldo com um um samba anti-Conor McGregor, e muito mais. One of Brazil’s most popular samba stars, Dudu Nobre has deep roots in the martial arts world. Nobre joins Trocação Franca to tell some of his experiences as a fan, like being backstage with Anderson Silva in Las Vegas before the legendary win over Vitor Belfort and having an awkward interaction with Steven Seagal, composing an anti-Conor McGregor samba prior to the Jose Aldo clash and being accused by friend of jinxing Aldo, and more. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In a special year end edition of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin give their picks for the Fighter of the Year and the Fight of the Year. Who tops the list out of all the performances in 2022? Find out in the latest episode. Plus we break down the biggest news stories from the year including Conor McGregor and Jon Jones not competing at all in 2022 plus the situation involving former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez following his arrest. Brown will also reminisce about some of his legendary sparring sessions and reveal details about the time he suffered a broken jaw in training and then made his professional debut long before the bones had actually healed. Brown will also give his reaction to the recent altercation between former UFC fighter Jake Shields and Mike Jackson at the UFC Performance Institute in Las Vegas. All this and plenty more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC closed out its year with a mixed bag of a card on Saturday, as Jared Cannonier walked out of the UFC APEX with a workmanlike - and controversial - win over Sean Strickland in the UFC Vegas 66 main event. How much did the fight affect either man's stock and does either still have an outside shot of fighting for a UFC title someday? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and special guest host Jed Meshew figure out who were the biggest winners from the UFC's last event of 2022 and what's next for them. Future matchups are discussed for Cannonier, surging lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan, as well as Amir Albazi, Alex Caceres, Drew Dober, Michal Oleksiejczuk, amd more. Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC's 2022 schedule is officially at an end — and Jared Cannonier and Sean Strickland couldn't have closed it out with a weirder fight. MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Jed Meshew, and Alexander K. Lee react to Cannonier's listless decision win over Strickland in the main event of UFC Vegas 66 as well as the unique judging phenomenon that accompanied the bout. Additionally, they discuss the co-main event between Arman Tsarukyan and Damir Ismagulov, Drew Dober's hellacious come-from-behind win over Bobby Green, Amir Albazi's ceiling in the UFC following his knockout of Alessandro Costa, the chances Michal Oleksiejczuk is a dark horse in the middleweight division, and much more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's that time of year, folks — the final UFC card of 2022 is here! MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and José Youngs break down Saturday's middleweight main event between Jared Cannonier vs. Sean Strickland and get hyped for the people's main event between lightweights Arman Tsarukyan and Damir Ismagulov. The gang also take a look at some deep cuts on the card, highlight other big storylines, and more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paddy Pimblett's UFC 282 heavily debated victory over Jared Gordon has caused quite the uproar in the MMA space. Following Pimblett's fourth straight octagon win in as many tries, is it possible "The Baddy" has reached his ceiling, or is there more to come? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses Pimblett's win, and what should be next for him in 2023. Additionally, topics include the fallout of the main event from this past Saturday between Magomed Ankalaev and Jan Blachowicz, along with Dana White immediately booking Glover Teixeira vs. Jamahal Hill for the vacant light heavyweight title at UFC 283, other standout performances from the final UFC pay-per-view of 2022, Bellator 289 — which included more controversial judging in the main event between Raufeon Stots and Danny Sabatello, and Patchy Mix's impressive submission win — UFC Vegas 66 this Saturday headlined by Jared Cannonier and Sean Strickland, and more. Host Mike Heck is joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew for another roundtable episode of the program. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While 2022 has produced rising stars, incredible fights, and exciting finishes, it has also provided a shining light on the holes in judging in the sport of mixed martial arts. The big question remains: What can be done to improve it? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on what it could take to improve judging, or at least get more competent people sitting in those very important seats during fight nights. Additionally, listener questions include UFC Vegas 66, Arman Tsarukyan's ceiling at 155, the UFC's lightweight division as a whole and who could emerge as the next new face, Paddy Pimblett's next opponent, Glover Teixeira vs. Jamahal Hill, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Coming off an up-and-down week at UFC 282, the No Bets Barred boys are back to discuss the final UFC event of the year, UFC Vegas 66. Headlined by a Top-10 middleweight clash between Jared Cannonier and Sean Strickland, UFC Vegas 66 features 14 fights, and since it's the final event of the year, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew decide to get after it with a ridiculous number of plays on the card, including dissension in many of their bets, except when it comes to that tried and true No Bets Barred tradition: Flyweight Unders. Tune in for Episode 29 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Glover Teixeira terá seu desejo atendido no fim das contas. Menos de um mês após ver o sonho do cinturão evaporar, uma reviravolta novamente deu ao mineiro sua chance, agora contra Jamahal Hill, no Rio de Janeiro. Em papo exclusivo com o Trocação Franca, Glover falou das trocas, a chance de se aposentar com vitória na Cidade Maravilhosa, e muito mais. O podcast conversa ainda com Alessandro Costa, representante brasileiro no último UFC de 2022. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Glover Teixeira’s wish will come true after all. Less than a month after watching his title shot vanish, a twist now has Teixeira facing Jahamal Hill for the vacant title in Rio de Janeiro. Glover Teixeira chats with Trocação Franca about the switch, the odds of him retiring after UFC 283, and more. The podcast also welcomes Alessandro Costa, the lone Brazilian on the final UFC card of 2022. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC 282 is in the books, and while controversy filled the T-Mobile Arena in the final two fights of the evening, Glover Teixeira ended the night by getting exactly what he wanted without even having to compete. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck recaps the top storylines of UFC 282, including Teixeira finding his way into a light heavyweight title fight against Jamahal Hill at UFC 283 after the main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev ended in a draw. Additionally, listener questions include the judging in the Paddy Pimblett vs. Jared Gordon fight, Darren Till's future after losing to Dricus Du Plessis, the judging in the final two fights of the card, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paddy Pimblett isn't a top-15 lightweight. That much is clear after his controversial win over Jared Gordon. But just how far down the 155-pound ladder do you have to drop to find his place in the global lightweight ranks? That's right, the MMA Fighting Rankings Show is back after another wild and wacky weekend at UFC 282! Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined this month by Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to debate the fallout of the UFC’s year-end pay-per-view, Pimblett’s place in the lightweight landscape, the sad state of affairs in the two saddest divisions in the sport, Kayla Harrison’s future following a stunning loss to Larissa Pacheco, and more. The gang also take their stab at wagering on futures for several of the brightest talents in MMA. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the heels of UFC 282 this past Saturday night, The Fighter vs. The Writer returns to react to everything that unfolded including the split draw in the main event and Paddy Pimblett earning a controversial decision over Jared Gordon. UFC welterweight Matt Brown joins Damon Martin on the show to react to everything that unfolded at the final pay-per-view card in 2022. Brown will give his opinion on Pimblett’s performance with many believing he should have left UFC 282 with a loss rather than a win. Where does Pimblett go from here and what are his long term prospects in the UFC? According to Brown, Pimblett should probably stay far away from anyone inside the top 15 rankings at lightweight because he doesn’t believe the results would be good for the always outspoken fighter from Liverpool, England. Brown will also give his thoughts on a number of surprising scorecards handed out by the judges at UFC 282 and why there needs to be a lot more accountability for judging in the sport. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a finish-filled 10-fight start at UFC 282, the final two bouts were the only to go to the judges' scorecards where controversy reigned supreme — leading to a light heavyweight division still not having an official UFC champion. With Dana White putting a new championship bout on the books for UFC 283, where do Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev go from here? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Paddy Pimblett following his heavily debated decision win over Jared Gordon in the co-main event, Santiago Ponzinibbio, Dricus Du Plessis after his stoppage win over Darren Till, breakout star Ilia Topuria, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paddy Pimblett improved to 4-0 in the UFC on Saturday, but it has been met with quite a bit of controversy following UFC 282. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jose Youngs, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Pimblett's heavily debated decision win over Jared Gordon in the co-main event of the UFC's final pay-per-view of the year. Additionally, they discuss the main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Anakaleav being scored a draw, Dana White revealing the Glover Teixeira will fight Jamahal Hill to crown a new champion at UFC 283, Dricus Du Plessis' finish of Darren Till, the breakout performance for Ilia Topuria, Raul Rosas Jr. impressing in his octagon debut, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev are set to battle it out for the vacant light heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 282, while Paddy Pimblett and Jared Gordon will compete in the lightweight co-main event to cap off the UFC's pay-per-view year. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee preview those matchups, Saturday's card as a whole, discuss the other big storylines, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Darren Till returns to the octagon for the first time in well over a year when he faces Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 282. With just one victory in five appearances, is Till in a must-win situation on Saturday night in Las Vegas? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses what is at stake for Till against Du Plessis, and how the one-time title challenger matches up. Additionally, listener questions include Paddy Pimblett at the UFC 282 press conference, if a fight between Pimblett and Ilia Topuria would make sense next regardless of what happens on Saturday, where the winner of the matchup between Topuria and Bryce Mitchell could go at 145, the Bellator 289 main card compared to the UFC's, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC is heading into their final pay-per-view event of 2022, and a new light heavyweight champion will be crowned in the main event. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Saturday's main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 282 along with what could be next for the winner. Additionally, they'll talk Paddy Pimblett facing Jared Gordon in the co-main event, how the rest of the card shapes up, the fallout of # UFC Orlando and Stephen Thompson's main event win against Kevin Holland, the UFC betting scandal and the promotion's response to James Krause and his fighters, Bellator 289 this Friday headlined by the interim bantamweight title rivalry fight between Raufeon Stots and Danny Sabatello, and more. This week, host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew for a talking heads discussion about the biggest stories in MMA. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Paddy Pimblett has his toughest test to date when he faces Jared Gordon in the co-main event of Saturday's UFC 282 fight card. Should Pimblett improve to 4-0 inside the octagon, what should be next for him? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on how he would matchmake "The Baddy" if victorious on Saturday, and gives his thoughts on Pimblett's podcast with Dana White. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC 282 main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev, Bryce Mitchell vs. Ilia Topuria, Friday's Bellator 289 fight card, the must-win spot for Darren Till, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After an up-and-down week for UFC Orlando, the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down the final PPV event of 2022, UFC 282. Headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev., co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive into their favorite bets this weekend, including Ankalaev’s chances to become the new champion, Paddy Pimblett’s first co-main event spot, Jed’s continued insistence on riding the rollercoaster of Heavyweight Overs, and the most dangerous Flyweight Under bet yet. Then at the end, Conner and Jed even throw out a couple of Bellator 289 plays, just for the fun of it. Tune in for Episode 28 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Semana decisiva para a Argentina no futebol e MMA, com os hermanos enfrentando a Holanda por uma vaga nas semifinais da Copa do Mundo e Santiago Ponzinibbio buscando voltar à boa fase no UFC 282, e o Trocação Franca recebe o “Argentino Gente Boa” para falar de futebol, MMA e tudo mais. O podcast conversa também com Juliana Velasquez, que parte em busca de vingança contra Liz Carmouche pelo cinturão do Bellator, na sexta. It’s a big week for Argentina in soccer and MMA, with the hermanos playing Netherlands for a spot in the 2022 World Cup semifinal and Santiago Ponzinibbio looking to get back on track at UFC 282, so Trocação Franca welcomes the Argentine fighter to talk all things soccer, MMA and more. The podcast also features Juliana Velasquez ahead of her championship rematch with Liz Carmouche on Friday’s Bellator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The ongoing story regarding James Krause and UFC gambling seems as if it's only going to get worse before it gets better. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the UFC's response in regards to Krause's suspension in Nevada, and no longer allowing fighters who even train with Krause to compete for the promotion pending the results of investigations. Additionally, listener topics include the retirement of T.J. Dillashaw, whether or not a Stephen Thompson vs. Conor McGregor fight makes sense following an entertaining victory for "Wonderboy" at UFC Orlando, Sergei Pavlovich's ceiling at heavyweight, Bellator 289, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC commentator joins MMA Fighting’s José Youngs on episode 2 of Anything But Fighting. The Boston native opens up his lifelong love of the sports, reflects on some of his favorite memories from the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Celtics, looks back on the infamous 'Tuck Rule' game from 2001, breaks down the greatest Boston athletes, and more. He also tries his hand at the mysterious Bucket of Questions to close out the episode. · Follow José Youngs: https://twitter.com/JoseYoungs · Follow Jon Anik: https://twitter.com/jon_anik · Music by Nick Wolf: http://instagram.com/nickwolfmusic · Art by Adam Nelson: https://www.instagram.com/gorilla_the_bear Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, UFC welterweight Matt Brown and Damon Martin discuss the latest news from around the sport and preview the upcoming UFC 282 card. At the top of the show, Brown will react to the news that the UFC has moved to prevent any fighters associated with James Krause from competing in the promotion due to an ongoing investigation surrounding betting irregularities. Brown will offer his insight into what the UFC had previously told fighters about betting on contests and his own history seeing athletes and coaches wagering on the sport. We’ll also break down everything that unfolded at UFC Orlando including Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson’s win over Kevin Holland in the main event. Brown praises Holland’s coaches for stopping the fight after the fourth round rather than sending him back out when he was clearly compromised. Finally, we’ll look ahead at UFC 282 and the two biggest fights on the card as Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev battle for the light heavyweight title and Paddy Pimblett looks to continue his winning ways against Jared Gordon. Brown will discuss Pimblett’s rapid rise and his feeling about the British fighter constantly ballooning up in weight between fights and what that says about his chances for long-term success in the sport. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephen Thompson looked fantastic in his return to the octagon as he stopped Kevin Holland in the fourth round via TKO. Does "Wonderboy" have one last title run left in him, and if so, what's the next step he needs to take to get there? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective following Thompson's main event victory at UFC Orlando this past Saturday. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Rafael dos Anjos after his dominant submission win over Bryan Barberena in the co-main event, Matheus Nicolau following his stoppage of Matt Schnell on the final fight of his contract, Sergei Pavlovich after his eye-opening finish of Tai Tuivasa, along with fellow victors Roman Dolidze, Eryk Anders, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephen Thompson accomplished his mission of proving to UFC fans that he's still got it on Saturday night at UFC Orlando. Following a fourth-round corner stoppage TKO win for "Wonderboy" against the incredibly tough Kevin Holland, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and E. Casey Leydon react to the exciting battle, and Thomson's turn-back-the-clock performance. Additionally, they discuss Rafael dos Anjos' dominant performance in the co-main event, his overall resumé, and the callout of Conor McGregor, Sergei Pavlovich's devastating finish of Tai Tuivasa, Roman Dolidze's stoppage win against Jack Hermansson and callout of Khamzat Chimaev, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following the UFC's statement regarding James Krause being suspended by Nevada, and any fighters that choose to be coached by Krause will no longer be permitted to participate in UFC events pending the results of an ongoing investigation, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee react to the news. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ahead of Stephen Thompson and Kevin Holland's main event matchup, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew preview the welterweight headliner, along with other top storylines heading into Saturday's UFC Orlando event. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario announced a ban on gambling on UFC fights over "integrity requirements." Is this news a one-spot thing, or is it the beginning of a massive snowball rolling downhill in regards to the continuously growing world of MMA gambling? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his reaction to the province of Ontario's decision and where things could go from there. Additionally, listener questions include Aljamain Sterling confirming he'll defend his title against Henry Cejudo next, Conor McGregor's potential comeback, Stephen Thompson's future if he loses to Kevin Holland in the main event of UFC Orlando, ONE Championship, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The final UFC pay-per-view of 2022 will be capped off by the crowning of a brand new light heavyweight champion now that Jiri Prochazka is out of the picture for the time being. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses Prochazka's decision to vacate the light heavyweight title after an injury forced him out of the UFC 282 main event, Jan Blachowicz vs. Magomed Ankalaev fighting for the vacant title, and whether or not it was the right choice. Additionally, topics include the PFL World Championship pay-per-view event this past Friday, grading the promotion on how it all went, what's next for Kayla Harrison following her loss to Larissa Pacheco, the new feud between UFC champ Alex Pereira and Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Orlando headlined by Stephen Thompson vs. Kevin Holland, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Eric "New York Ric" Jackman. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow New York Ric: @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Although there are alleged legal ramifications surrounding their current relationship, but hypothetically speaking, if the UFC could somehow put together a fight between seemingly former friends Conor McGregor and Artem Lobov, could that be a massive drawing fight for the promotion? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes listener questions, which includes the potential box office appeal for a McGregor vs. Lobov matchup if it could somehow get made in 2023. Additionally, topics include Jorge Masvidal's recent interview with MMA Fighting, Glover Teixeira's spot in the light heavyweight title picture, the UFC Orlando main event between Stephen Thompson and Kevin Holland, Tracy Cortez vs. Amanda Ribas matchup on Saturday's card, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After taking a week off for Thanksgiving, the UFC is back with a vengeance with UFC Orlando, headlined by a welterweight scrap between Stephen Thompson and Kevin Holland, and the No Bets Barred boys are back to cover all the betting action. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew recap the 2022 PFL Championships where Conner nearly went a perfect 15-0, before diving into the 15-fight UFC Orlando card. Conner and Jed end up at odds on a number of plays, but they're in unison where it counts, with the return of flyweight unders and the people's heavyweight champion of the world, Tai Tuivasa. Plus, Jed cooks up a disgusting little two-team parlay that pays out a whopping +1356. Tune in for Episode 27 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Gilbert Durinho suou, mas enfim conseguiu um adversário para enfrentar no UFC — e, apesar da campanha, não será Jorge Masvidal. O atleta de de Niterói volta ao Trocação Franca para falar da novela que se tornou a negociação de luta com Masvidal, o confronto com Neil Magny no UFC Rio, e muito mais. O podcast recebe também a dupla Amanda Ribas e Matheus Nicolau, que representa o Brasil no UFC deste sábado, na Flórida. Gilbert Burns finally has an opponent to face in the UFC — but, despite all the campaign, it won’t be Jorge Masvidal. The Brazilian fighter returns to Trocação Franca to discuss the Masvidal saga, facing Neil Magny at UFC 283 in Rio de Janeiro, and more. The podcast also brings interviews with Amanda Ribas and Matheus Nicolau ahead of Saturday’s UFC event in Orlando. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two-time UFC title challenger Jorge Masvidal speaks with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview Friday's iKON FC 6 event in Orlando, talks Gilbert Burns, Leon Edwards saying he'll settle the score in or out of the octagon, Michael Chandler's callout for a BMF title shot, why he believes Chandler shouldn't be in the BMF discussion, teammate Kayla Harrison suffering her first loss at the PFL World Championship event, goals as a promoter in 2023, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Jiri Prochazka making the decision to vacate the light heavyweight title after suffering an injury that knocked him out of the UFC 282 event with Glover Teixeira, did the UFC make the right call going with Jan Blachowicz vs. Magomed Ankalaev for the vacant championship? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the UFC 282 shakeup, the new main event for the card, and Teixeira being the odd man out after asking for a second bout with Blachowicz and getting denied. Additionally, listener questions include whether or not the UFC 282 card is worth a $75 purchase with all of the movement, Larissa Pacheco defeating Kayla Harrison at the PFL World Championship card this past Friday, Alex Pereira vs. Khamzat Chimaev, the momentum the PFL has following their first pay-per-view event, Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones, what could be next for Jorge Masvidal with Gilbert Burns fighting Neil Magny at UFC 283, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to the latest news in MMA including Conor McGregor’s outburst aimed at Anthony Smith over his current status with USADA. As of now, McGregor has been completely removed from the UFC’s anti-doping program, which means he’ll need to undergo six months of testing before he’s allowed to return again. That earned him some criticism from Smith but in response McGregor lashed out at the one-time UFC title challenger. But did Smith get it right where McGregor is concerned or is the Irish superstar actually doing anything wrong by dropping out of the testing pool while he’s not fighting? Brown will give his take after he personally dropped out of the USADA testing pool himself a few years ago before making his return to action. Also on the show, we’ll discuss Kayla Harrison’s shocking loss to Larissa Pacheco and where she goes from here with two fights remaining on her current contract with the PFL. Did Harrison’s value plummet with that loss or does she remain a top target for free agency once she able to test the market again? Plus, Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson joins the show to preview his upcoming fight against Kevin Holland and his desire to remind the world that he’s still one of the best welterweights in the sport despite losing his last two fights. Also don’t miss Brown telling a story about his interaction with “Wonderboy” when they road in an ambulance together after their fight in 2012. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following Larissa Pacheco's upset win over Kayla Harrison in the main event of the PFL World Championship, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to the shocking conclusion of the PFL's first pay-per-view event. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

After a chaotic weekend in the world of combat sports, a lot of news, and perhaps speculation came out of it. But what storyline stood out the most? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel of MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew discuss Vadim Nemkov's upset win over Corey Anderson to retain the light heavyweight title, Usman Nurmagomedov dominating Patricky Pitbull in the co-main event to win the lightweight title, Bellator 290 heading to CBS — which includes Fedor Emelianenko challenging Ryan Bader for the heavyweight title in his final fight — the James Krause fallout following UFC Vegas 65, the PFL World Championship pay-per-view card on Friday, Khamzat Chimaev calling for a middleweight title fight against Alex Pereira, reveal some of the things they are thankful for in the world of MMA, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There's not UFC event this weekend but that doesn't mean there isn't some serious fight action as the PFL hosts their 2022 Championships at Madison Square Garden in New York City, and so you know the No Bets Barred boys had to get some bets down. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew discuss a successful week betting on UFC Vegas 65 before hopping into breakdowns for all SIX title fights at the PFL Championships. Conner will be in attendance so he places wagers on almost every fight on the card, while Jed debates an All In bet on Kayla Harrison and offers up a few live dogs he thinks are worth a play. Tune in for Episode 26 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Jed Meshew react to the news that an injury to Jiri Prochazka has forced him out of the UFC 282 main event with Glover Teixeira, that Prochazka has vacated the light heavyweight title, and that Jan Blachowicz will face Magomed Ankalaev for the now-vacant title in it's place. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Poatan é o novo campeão dos médios do UFC, mas ele está pronto para reinar absoluto após nocautear Israel Adesanya? O Trocação Franca está de volta e recebe Murilo Bustamante, primeiro brasileiro a conquistar o título do UFC, para analisar a luta e próximos passos de Poatan. O podcast ainda bate um papo com Larissa Pacheco e Matheus Buffa, que disputam títulos na PFL nesta sexta-feira, e traz a resposta de Rodolfo Vieira à pergunta: Gordon Ryan já é o maior da história do grappling? Alex Pereira is the new UFC middleweight champion, but is he ready for a long reign after knocking out Israel Adesanya? Trocação Franca is back, and we welcome Murilo Bustamante, the first Brazilian to hold a UFC title, to break down the fight and Pereira’s next steps. The podcast also chats with PFL title hopefuls Larissa Pacheco and Matheus Scheffel, and asks Rodolfo Vieira if Gordon Ryan has already made the case to be called the grappling GOAT. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Khamzat Chimaev plans to have a very busy several months, with his plans of wanting to fight Alex Pereira for the UFC middleweight title, and then fighting Colby Covington at welterweight a few months later. But is this something that could actually happen? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Chimaev's big hopes for these two massive fights, and how they could go. Additionally, listener topics include what we know about the James Krause situation from UFC Vegas 65, Dillon Danis being scheduled to face KSI in a boxing match in January, Hasim Rahman Jr. potentially dodging a big bullet not fighting Jake Paul earlier this year, the PFL World Championship event on Friday, what fans are thankful for this year in MMA, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin debate the latest topics in MMA including Khabib Nurmagomedov, the greatest lightweights of all time and Michael Chandler’s style. Brown, who is widely considered one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, offers Chandler some advice when it comes to his style inside the octagon that has earned him a lot of bonuses and praise from UFC president Dana White but still left him with a 2-3 record in the promotion. Does Chandler need to change his style if he wants to become a UFC champion? Brown argues that Chandler can absolutely remain a fan favorite willing to put on bloody wars from now until the day he retires but if he wants to claim a UFC title, something might need to shift in his strategy for future fights. Brown also discusses Nurmagomedov’s growing legacy as a coach in mixed martial arts and the resume he’s putting together since retiring from active competition. Also this week, PFL color commentator Kenny Florian joins the show to talk about the legendary career that Jose Aldo put together and he addresses the pay problems that continue to plague the sport, particularly where the UFC is involved. Florian will also discuss Kayla Harrison’s dominance and the chances that she’ll eventually face Cris Cyborg one day. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Although Derrick Lewis and Serghei Spivac were unable to battle it out in the main event of UFC Vegas 65, Kennedy Nzechukwu and Ion Cutelaba got the bump up, with Nzechukwu coming through with a vicious finish to cap off the card. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee put on the matchmaking hats and attempt to figure out what is next for Nzechukwu following the biggest win of his career in the short notice main event of Saturday's card at the APEX following Derrick Lewis being forced to withdraw from the card due to an illness. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Muslim Salikhov following his brutal stoppage win over Andre Fialho, along with fellow winners Waldo Cortes-Acosta, welterweight standout Jack Della Maddalena, Charles Johnson, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Prior to the main card of the UFC's return to the APEX beginning, it was revealed that an illness to Derrick Lewis led to the cancellation of his scheduled main event with Serghei Spivac — which considering the weirdness of the lineup as a whole, it almost made sense in some ways. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon react to Saturday's UFC Vegas 65 event, the news of Lewis' withdrawal and the light heavyweight bout between Kennedy Nzechukwu and Ion Cutelaba getting bumped up to the main event spot, Nzechukwu's second-round finish and post-fight interview, Jack Della Maddalena's sensational performance, Muslim Salikhov's nasty finish of Andre Fialho, Natalia Silva's spinning kick to the face of her opponent to kick off the card, James Krause's absence from the corner of Miles Johns, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Popular UFC heavyweight Derrick Lewis admits he has his back against the wall ahead of his UFC Vegas 65 main event bout with Serghei Spivak, but is it a do-or-die fight for "The Black Beast" in terms of being a contender in the division? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and E. Casey Leydon discuss the stakes for Lewis in Saturday's bout and what a win would do for the career of Spivak in the contender conversation. Additionally, topics include the new calmer Ion Cutelaba at the post weigh-in faceoffs ahead of his co-main event bout with Kennedy Nzechukwu, Jack Della Maddalena's ceiling in the welterweight division, the under the radar bouts on the card, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Colby Covington keeping the next move of his fighting career close to the vest, it appears the UFC is hoping to book a huge fight between the former interim champion and Khamzat Chimaev. In the current state of the welterweight division, does Covington need that fight to earn that third crack at undisputed gold? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer whether or not Covington needs a win over Chimaev to get to a championship opportunity, or if another Leon Edwards win over Kamaru Usman in 2023 could potentially slot "Chaos" right in there. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC's bantamweight division, where Michael Chandler goes from his UFC 281 loss to Dustin Poirier, what could be next for Arnold Allen now that an interim featherweight title fight is booked at UFC 284, Derrick Lewis' chances to get back on track in the main event of UFC Vegas 65, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices