MMA Fighting

Alex Pereira is back at it again. This Saturday, Pereira puts his light heavyweight title on the line for the fourth time when he takes on Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 in Las Vegas. On top of that, Justin Gaethje runs things back with Rafael Fiziev in an electric co-main event, and No Bets Barred is here to break it all down. This week, host Jed Meshew is joined once again by Morning Kombat’s Long Island Luke to dive into all their favorite bets for UFC 313. Topics discussed include who will leave the main event as champion, whether this is Pereira’s final fight at 205 pounds if Gaethje has enough juice left to beat Fiziev again, who wins in a battle of The Hulk vs. Superman, Leg 12 of The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 119 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter 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 legend Matt Brown and Damon Martin preview UFC 313 including Alex Pereira defending his title during a time when there’s been concerns that perhaps he’s had too many distractions lately leading into a massive main event. Plus Justin Gaethje returns for a short-notice showdown against Rafael Fiziev but is this a do-or-die moment for his career where a win vaults him back into title contention but a loss could potentially lead to his retirement? All this and more on the latest episode! Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before Alex Pereira again steps into the octagon to defend his UFC light heavyweight title, check out MMA Fighting's UFC 313 Timeline to look back on Pereira's incredible run at the top and the winding road challenger Magomed Ankalaev took to his championship opportunity. Voiced by Mike Heck, produced by E. Casey Leydon. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Manel Kape ended up with a replacement opponent, took care of business in emphatic—if somewhat controversial—fashion and now looks to still be on track to fight for the UFC flyweight championship. Has he done enough to spoil plans for a rumored Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Kara-France title fight? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss whether the UFC should make a hard pivot to Pantoja vs. Kape, a rematch of a February 2021 bout that Pantoja won by decision in what was Kape’s UFC debut. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Cody Brundage after a wild win over Julian Marquez, under-the-radar lightweight contender Nasrat Haqparast after he scored his fifth straight victory, plus where to go with the undefeated Hyder Amil and the streaking Sam Patterson. All that, plus an avalanche of outstanding listener picks. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Manel Kape is performing up to the hype hardcore MMA fans had for him when he signed to the UFC, and has now finished his second consecutive ranked opponent. After stopping Asu Almabayev in the main event of UFC Vegas 103 on Saturday night at the APEX, Kape called for a title shot. Should he get it? Following the UFC's latest Fight Night event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the fight card, Kape's impressive performance against Almabayev, the controversy surrounding a pair of uncalled eye pokes, where Kape goes from here, and if he should get a championship bout next. Additionally, he reacts to the bonus winners, the crazy war between Cody Brundage and Julian Marquez, the ceilings for surging contenders such as Chepe Mariscal and Sam Patterson, the close split decisions on the main card, Andrea Lee losing her record-setting sixth straight fight, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Are Manel Kape and Asu Almabayev fighting for a title shot in the UFC's flyweight division? Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew as they preview Saturday's UFC Vegas 103 card, along with the UFC Fight Night headliner between Kape and the surging Almabayev. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Justin Gaethje will compete in the UFC 313 co-main event after all after Dan Hooker was forced to withdraw from the highly anticipated lightweight contest with a hand injury. UFC CEO Dana White announced Wednesday night that Gaethje will now face the returning Rafael Fiziev. With the short notice nature, was this the right fight to make? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to the Gaethje vs. Fiziev rematch, what the fight means for both guys, and the impact of Hooker's scratch from the card. Additionally, they'll grade other fights announced by White and the promotion, the continued fallout from the main event of UFC Seattle between Song Yadong and Henry Cejudo, the discourse about rules and taking points, Cejudo's conversation with referee Jason Herzog, the Aaron Pico saga with PFL as a free agent, along with UFC Vegas 103 and much more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

This Saturday the UFC returns to the APEX for UFC Vegas 103, the go-home show ahead of UFC 313 next weekend. In the main event, Manel Kape takes on late replacement Asu Almabayev in a pivotal flyweight contest and so No Bets Barred is back to break it all down. This week, host Jed Meshew flies solo to talk about one of the weaker UFC offerings in recent memory. Topics discussed include whether Kape and Almabayev are fighting for a flyweight title shot, which underdogs present the most value on the card, which prospects are most likely to justify their heavy favorite odds, the latest update on The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 118 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter 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 legend Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to the controversial eye poke that ended Henry Cejudo’s main event with Song Yadong, Ilia Topuria giving up his title to move to lightweight and if he should get an immediate shot at Islam Makhachev, Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett and the PFL maintaining matching rights on Aaron Pico, which prevents him from leaving the promotion plus more. Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Song Yadong scored a convincing win—with an abrupt conclusion—over former two-division champion Henry Cejudo at UFC Seattle, claiming the most impressive scalp of his career so far. What should be Song’s next move as he continues to climb the rankings? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what the next step for Song is after finally knocking off a ranked veteran. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Anthony Hernandez following a second win over rival Brendan Allen, the spoiler Rob Font after upsetting the previously undefeated Jean Matsumoto, the white hot Jean Silva, and unlikely Fight of the Night winner Alonzo Menifield. Plus, some amazing picks from the listeners, including what to do with Cejudo following his third straight loss since coming out of retirement. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react on Saturday's UFC Seattle card, the disappointing ending to the main event which saw Song Yadong win a technical decision against Henry Cejudo, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 returns to Seattle and former two-division champion Henry Cejudo has his back against the wall as he faces Song Yadong in the main event of Saturday's Fight Night card. Could this be the final appearance of Cejudo? Ahead of this weekend's #UFCSeattle event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew preview the card, the main event between Cejudo and Song, and what is on the line for both fighters. Additionally, they'll discuss the anticipated co-main event between Brendan Allen and Anthony Hernandez — a rematch from an LFA middleweight title fight from 2018 — and where the winner can go in the loaded 185-pound division, Rob Font now facing Jean Matsumoto following the retirement of Dominick Cruz, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 CEO Dana White gave the MMA world a lot to discuss on Wednesday night with a slew of blockbuster announcements — including Ilia Topuria vacating the featherweight title in lieu of a lightweight move, and a new champion set to be crowned at UFC 314 in April. And that's just the start of the news. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Topuria's big move, what it all means, and what his legacy could become if his gamble pays off, or fails. Additionally, they'll answer your questions about Topuria's future, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes to crown a new champ in Miami, Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett set for the UFC 314 co-main event, Patricio Pitbull signing with the UFC to face Yair Rodriguez on the card, along with the UFC 315 title fights, Saturday's UFC Seattle card, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 CEO Dana White promised big announcements, and he delivered. Following White announcing Ilia Topuria will vacate the featherweight title, and that Alexander Volkanovski faces Diego Lopes for the vacant belt at UFC 314 in April, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Damon Martin react to the big news, along with Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett being officially announced as the five-round co-main event, Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena headlining UFC 315 in May, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 Saturday, the UFC returns to Seattle for the first time in 12 years with a fight card headlined by a bantamweight bout between former champion Henry Cejudo and Song Yadong. It's a card that's been decimated by late-notice changes, but nevertheless, No Bets Barred is back to break it all down. This week, host Jed Meshew is joined once again by the Action Network's Billy Ward to dive into the fights. Topics discussed include whether this is do or die for Cejudo against Song, if Anthony Hernandez is a safe bet in his rematch with Brendan Allen, which of Jed's favorite prospects are most likely to disappoint him, the latest update on The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 117 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Billy Ward: @Psychoward586 Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter 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 fallout from Eric Nicksick offering his brutally honest opinion about Sean Strickland's performance at UFC 312 and Strickland later saying that Nicksick probably wouldn't return to corner him again. We'll also talk about Francis Ngannou's decision to return to boxing and if that's a good idea or not? Plus, Henry Cejudo says he's taking one "last run" at the UFC title and we give our picks for Artur Beterbiev vs. Dmitry Bivol 2 and much more! Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jared Cannonier pulled off a sizable upset in the main event of UFC Vegas 102 as he battled back from a difficult first round to outlast, and eventually finish the dangerous Gregory Rodrigues in the fourth round. After stopping a two-fight skid, and avoiding the first three-fight losing streak of his career, where does Cannonier go from here in a wacky middleweight divisional picture? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss who could be in line for Cannonier to face next following his big win. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Youssef Zalal following his decision win over Calvin Kattar in the co-main event, Edmen Shahbazyan after his first-round knockout win in the featured bout, along with fellow main card winners Nazim Sadykhov, Andre Petroski, and Andre Petroski, and more from the UFC's return to the APEX. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Jared Cannonier had a tough start to the UFC Vegas 102 main event, but he ended the fight in an emphatic way against Gregory Rodrigues in the fourth round to get back in the win column. After the big win, and having fought so many guys in the loaded middleweight division, where does Cannonier go from here? Following Saturday's card, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Cannonier's performance and comeback win after overcoming adversity in the first round, and what the best case scenario is for his next opponent. Additionally, they react to Youssef Zalal's win over Calvin Kattar in the co-main event, the negativity being thrown Zalal's way for the way he competed in the third round, accusing Kattar of greasing in the post-fight press conference, the bonus winners from the Fight Night card, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Jared Cannonier has his back against the wall this Saturday when he faces Gregory Rodrigues. Almost 41 years old and riding a two-fight losing streak, Cannonier hopes to defend his position as a Top 10 middleweight when he squares off against the surging Rodrigues in the main event of UFC Vegas 102. Can Cannonier fend off Father Time and Rodrigues or will "Robocop" vault himself into the thick of the middleweight title race? Ahead of Saturday's return to the APEX, MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Alexander K. Lee preview the card, discuss what's at stake for Cannonier should he lose, break down the co-main event matchup between Calvin Kattar and Youssef Zalal, dive into a few undercard gems, answer fan questions, and more. 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

UFC 312 will go down as a mostly forgettable UFC event, but the dominance of champions Dricus du Plessis and Zhang Weili will carry on into their next potential matchups, while the MMA community is wondering where Sean Strickland goes after a lopsided loss to du Plessis in the main event. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses the fallout of UFC 312, the lopsided nature of du Plessis and Zhang's victories, and where Strickland and strawweight title challenger Tatiana Suarez go from here. Additionally, topics include the overall lackluster response to UFC 312, the promotion returning to the APEX on Saturday for UFC Vegas 102 headlined by Jared Cannonier vs. Gregory Rodriguez, other news and notes in the world of MMA and combat sports, and much more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 heading back to the APEX! This Saturday, UFC Vegas 102 goes down headlined by a middleweight matchup between former title challenger Jared Cannonier and rising contender Gregory Rodrigues, so No Bets Barred is here to break it all down. This week, host Jed Meshew flies solo to break down this lackluster card and all 13 fights on it. Topics discussed include how Jed did at UFC 312 (hint, not great!), if Cannonier still has anything left in the tank, why Calvin Kattar shouldn't be as big of an underdog against Youssef Zalal as he is, which other fights are worth paying attention to this weekend, the latest update on The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 117 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter 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 legend Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to what unfolded at UFC 312 this past weekend and Brown fires back at critics suddenly upset that Sean Strickland went out and did exactly what he always does plus Dricus du Plessis’ ceiling with a fight against Khamzat Chimaev looming plus we discuss why there seems to be less and less top American wrestlers coming to MMA these days and more…. Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dricus du Plessis made it a clean sweep in his middleweight championship rivalry with Sean Strickland, and strawweight queen Zhang Weili showed Tatiana Suarez there are levels to this at UFC 312 on Saturday in Sydney. Is it time for both champions to chase superfights in other divisions? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what's next for du Plessis and Zhang as they continue their dominant title reigns, along with where Strickland and Suarez go after their disappointing losses. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for main card standouts Tallison Teixeira and Jake Matthews, plus a glance at two intriguing winners from the prelims, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Dricus du Plessis made sure there was absolutely no controversy this time around as he dominated Sean Strickland in their rematch for the middleweight championship in the main event of Saturday's UFC 312 event in Sydney, Australia. Now, all eyes are on the eventual championship fight between du Plessis and the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev. Following the UFC's pay-per-view event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to the card, du Plessis' lopsided win over the very game Strickland, discuss how big a du Plessis vs. Chimaev fight can be, and where Strickland goes from his second loss to du Plessis. Additionally, they discuss Zhang Weili's one-sided decision victory over Tatiana Suarez, if Zhang had her final strawweight fight in lieu of a move up to flyweight to challenge Valentina Shevchenko for the 125-pound belt, Manon Fiorot potentially being leapfrogged, other notable moments from the card, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 312's live watch party with Mike Heck and Jed Meshew! Check out the original UFC 312 Watch Party here: https://www.youtube.com/live/0EzeUcm3yrE Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 will look to pull off another upset and become a two-time UFC middleweight champion, but standing in his way is the Dricus du Plessis — who defeated Strickland for the title 13 months ago — coming off of an impressive title defense against Israel Adesanya. Can Strickland regain UFC gold, or is this du Plessis' division for the foreseeable future? Ahead of Saturday's UFC 312 pay-per-view event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew preview the card, discuss the du Plessis vs. Strickland rematch, what adjustments to look for from both fighters, and predict who leaves Sydney with the title. Additionally, they talk the intriguing co-main event for the strawweight belt between Zhang Weili and Tatiana Suarez, which fighter needs the win more, if Zhang would become a top-five women's fighter of all-time with a win, Dominick Cruz announcing his retirement on Thursday night, Canelo Alvarez pulling a fast one on Jake Paul, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 returns to pay-per-view this Saturday with UFC 312, headlined by a middleweight title rematch between Dricus du Plessis and former champ Sean Strickland. Although there's two world title fights, the card is certainly nowhere near as interesting top-to-bottom as UFC 311. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses all things UFC 312, including the DDP vs. Strickland main event, the co-main event for the strawweight title between Zhang Weili and Tatiana Suarez, the fallout of UFC Saudi Arabia, which was capped off by Nassourdine Imavov's stunning knockout of Israel Adesanya, where Adesanya goes from here, Dana White's reaction to Bryce Mitchell's controversial comments, Mitchell's apology, and much more. Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and special guests as they discuss the biggest topics in the sport. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 is back in Sydney. This Saturday, UFC 312 goes down in Sydney, Australia headlined by a pair of title fights. In the main event, Dricus du Plessis and Sean Strickland face off in a middleweight title rematch, while in the co-main event, Zhang Weili puts her strawweight title on the line against Tatiana Suarez. And No Bets Barred is here to break it all down. This week, host Jed Meshew is joined for the first time ever by Morning Kombat’s Long Island Luke to talk over the action at hand. Topics discussed include who leaves Sydney with UFC titles, whether Strickland or du Plessis need to make any adjustments for their rematch, if it’s finally time for Tatiana Suarez to win a title, how bad is the rest of this card, The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 116 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter 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 Israel Adesanya's stunning loss to Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Saudi Arabia and what should be next for him. Plus we discuss Bryce Mitchell's controversial comments and Dana White's reaction plus looking ahead at UFC 312 with our picks and predictions for the two title fights and more. Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While Nassourdine Imavov picked up the biggest win of his fighting career in the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia, his opponent, and former two-time champion Israel Adesanya suffered his third straight loss. What's next for "The Last Stylebender" after falling short in his first non-title fight in over five years? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what's next for Imavov following his impressive second-round knockout victory in the headliner, along with Adesanya. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for co-main even winner Michael Page after his lopsided decision victory over Shara Bullet in his UFC middleweight debut, Sergei Pavlovich following his decision win against Jairzinho Rozenstruik, along with fellow main card winners Vinicius Oliveira and Fares Ziam, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Nassourdine Imavov not only picked up the biggest win of his career against Israel Adesanya in the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia, he didn't need the judges, or two full rounds to do it as he delivered a knockout less than a minute into Round 2. Was the stoppage call from referee Marc Goddard the correct one? Following Saturday's card in Riyadh, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and José Youngs react to Imavov's victory, discuss where it puts him in the title picture, who he could face next, along with Adesanya's future following his third consecutive loss. Additionally, topics include Michael Page's lopsided decision win against Shara Magomedov in their middleweight bout, Sergei Pavlovich's much-needed — albeit not all-that-thrilling — win over Jairzinho Rozenstruik, big wins from Farez Ziam and Vinicius Oliveira, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Former UFC middleweight champ Israel Adesanya returns to action this Saturday in his first non-title fight in many years as he faces the surging Nassourdine Imavov in the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia. What does Adesanya's next move look like based on the result? Ahead of this weekend's UFC Fight Night card, #MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew preview the middleweight headliner — which kicks off a slew of massive fights in the 185-pound division — along with the co-main event between Shara Magomedov and Michael Page, how the rest of the card stacks up compared to next weekend's UFC 312 event, the low-key banger, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 finds himself in unfamiliar territory as he enters the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia on a two-fight losing streak. Can the former UFC middleweight champ avoid a third straight loss against Nassourdine Imavov? On a special fan Q&A edition of Between the Links, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck and Jed Meshew answer your questions about the Adesanya vs. Imavov matchup at UFC Saudi Arabia, along with Shara Magomedov vs. Michael Page and the rest of Saturday’s card. Additionally, they’ll answer questions about topics such as the PFL’s latest event that saw Usman Nurmagomedov hang on to his title against a game Paul Hughes, the GFL draft and what we learned, BKFC’s KnuckleMania 5 event, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 is heading back to Saudi Arabia. After taking a week off following UFC 311, the world's premier MMA promotion returns to Riyadh for its second event in Saudi Arabia, this time headlined by a middleweight matchup between former two-time champion Israel Adesanya and rising contender Nassourdine Imavov. And No Bets Barred has you covered with a full betting breakdown of the card. Host Jed Meshew kicks things off with a brief look at how he did at UFC 311 before diving into this week's card. Topics discussed include whether Adesanya still has enough juice to get past Imavov, what exactly will the middleweight bout between Shara Bullet and Michael "Venom" Page look like, the latest bet on The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 115 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter 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 BKFC KnuckleMania V and the potential for Conor McGregor to actually make his return in a bare-knuckle fight against Mike Perry or Jeremy Stephens plus we talk about Israel Adesanya coming back with something to prove at UFC Saudi Arabia off two straight losses and if Michael 'Venom' Page is making a mistake going up to middleweight to face a killer like Shara Bullet plus much more Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Did the PFL just have its coming out moment? On Saturday, Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes went to war for 25 minutes in the main event of PFL Road to Dubai Champion Series. Nurmagomedov eked out a majority decision win, but Hughes won the moral victory after giving the undefeated Dagestani all he could handle for 25 minutes, resulting in the current frontrunner for Fight of the Year In the immediate aftermath of such an incredible fight, MMA Fighting’s Jed Meshew and Casey Leydon hold an impromptu post-show, discussing the incredible main event, whether its the best fight in PFL history, if this is the sort of event that could get PFL to finally break through with the broader MMA fandom, and more. 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 the UFC taking a week off, this weekend belongs to the other combat sports promotions in the world and they’re taking advantage of it. On Saturday, BKFC returns for its big Knucklemania 5 event in Philadelphia, headlined by a five-round scrap between Eddie Alvarez and Jeremy Stephens. But before that goes down, PFL hosts its first event of 2025 with a Champions Series card in Dubai headlined by a sensational lightweight title fight between Usman Nurmagomedov and Paul Hughes. MMA Fighting’s Jed Meshew and Alexander K. Lee take a deep dive into both big combat sports cards this weekend, including who wins the BKFC headliner, how the BKFC heavyweight title fight between Mick Terrill and Ben Rothwell might go, which other fights they’re looking forward to on Saturday, answer viewer questions, and more. 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

UFC 311 is in the books and both Islam Makhachev and Merab Dvalishvili remain UFC champions. It was a hectic fight week that saw top lightweight contender Arman Tsarukyan withdraw the day before the event, allowing Renato Moicano to step in on short notice. Unfortunately for Moicano, he was unable to capitalize on his opportunity as Makhachev dismantled him quickly, submitting Moicano in the very first round. The co-main event was less dominant but no less impressive as Dvalishvili out-worked Umar Nurmagomedov over five rounds, taking a clear decision in his first-ever title defense. Mike Heck is on vacation so on this week’s all-new edition of Between the Links, Jed Meshew takes over the hosting chair and is joined by MMA Fighting’s Alexander K. Lee to break down all the big takeaways from UFC 311 and answer fan questions. 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

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to the results from UFC 311 including Islam Makhachev making short work of Renato Moicano and Merab Dvalishvili silencing his doubters with a stunning performance to beat Umar Nurmagomedov. Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

GFL founder Darren Owen joins the channel to discuss their debut year for the promotion and to answer viewer questions about anything and everything, hosted by MMA Fighting's Mike Heck. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/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 Makahchev made short work of Renato Moicano in the main event of UFC 311 to retain the lightweight title, while Merab Dvalishvili silenced the doubters and handed Umar Nurmagomedov his first loss to keep the 135-pound world title. After the first pay-per-view card of the year, where do both champions go? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what's next for Makhachev and Dvalishvili after their impressive performances, along with Moicano and Nurmagomedov after coming up short in their first championship bouts. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Jiri Prochazka after knocking out Jamahal Hill in the third round of their featured bout, Jailton Almeida following his quick finish of Serghei Spivac, Reinier de Ridder after tapping Kevin Holland in the main card opener, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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

Islam Makhachev delivered against short notice opponent Renato Moicano in the main event of UFC 311 on Saturday night at Intuit Dome in Inglewood, Calif., so much so, that Dana White finally had to admit that the lightweight champion is the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter on the planet. Following the UFC's first pay-per-view event of 2025, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Makhachev's quick win, what could be next, and how Arman Tsarukyan could fit into things at 155 after his withdrawal. Additionally, they discuss Merab Dvalishvili's successful title defense against Umar Nurmagomedov in the bantamweight championship co-main event, where Nurmagomedov goes from his first career loss, the incredible battle between Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill, both fighters' stocks rising after the fight between former light heavyweight champs, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 311's live watch party with Mike Heck and Jed Meshew! Check out the original UFC 311 Watch Party here: https://www.youtube.com/live/6nUruBPB9RE Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 is kicking off their 2025 pay-per-view calendar year with a huge card for UFC 311 at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, Calif., but now there's a brand new main event for the lightweight title as Dana White announced that Arman Tsarukyan is out, and Renato Moicano is in to face Islam Makhachev. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to the crazy turn of events with the new main event, where the division goes depending on the result, and discusses what a Makhachev win does for his and the division's legacy against Moicano. Additionally, they'll discuss the co-main event between bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili and challenger Umar Nurmagomedov, Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill, the rest of the stacked main card, the low-key banger, and answer listener questions. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 reacts to the #Breaking news that Arman Tsarukyan is out of UFC 311, and Islam Makhachev faces Renato Moicano in the new main event. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

PFL founder and chairman Donn Davis joins the channel to discuss changes to 2025 for the promotion and to answer viewer questions about anything and everything, hosted by MMA Fighting's Mike Heck. Watch replay: https://youtube.com/live/OHEPm3hSflc Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/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 Pay-Per-View event of 2025 is here! This Saturday in Inglewood, Calif., UFC 311 goes down, headlined by a pair of title fights in the best divisions in MMA. In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili puts his bantamweight belt on the line against the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov, and then in the main event, pound-for-pound No. 1 Islam Makhachev defends his lightweight title in a rematch with Arman Tsarukyan. All that caps off an electric night of fights and No Bets Barred is here to break everything down. This week, host Jed Meshew is joined by Action Network's Billy Ward to dive into all things UFC 311. Topics discussed include Tsarukyan's chances at pulling off the upset, how Dvalishvili can retain his 135 title, differing opinions on the light heavyweight bout between Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill, the latest update on The Climb, and more. Tune in for episode 114 of No Bets Barred. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Billy Ward: @Psychoward586 Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's officially UFC 311 fight week as the UFC brings two big title fights to the octagon. In the main event, Islam Makhachev is set to defend his title against Arman Tsarukyan in a rematch, while Merab Dvalishvili puts his newly won bantamweight championship on the line against the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel previews Saturday's big pay-per-view event, the two championship bouts, the highly anticipated light heavyweight bout between Jamahal Hill and Jiri Prochazka, and the rest of the card as a whole. Additionally, they'll give their thoughts on the shocking airplane incident involving Khabib Nurmagomedov, Mackenzie Dern's big win over Amanda Ribas at UFC Vegas 101, Leon Edwards vs. Jack Della Maddalena to headline UFC London in March, and much more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting’s Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat’s Luke Thomas. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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 preview UFC 311, Matt reveals how Arman Tsarukyan could pull off the upset and we discuss if Islam Makhachev deserves to be mentioned in the GOAT conversation at lightweight alongside his coach and mentor Khabib Nurmagomedov plus much more Subscribe to MMA Fighting Check out our full video catalog Like MMA Fighting on Facebook Follow on Twitter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mackenzie Dern finds herself in a very interesting spot at 115 pounds following her impressive submission victory over Amanda Ribas in the main event of UFC Vegas 101. Where does the highly skilled jiu-jitsu ace go after her second straight win in a division where she's fought almost every contender already? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what's next for Dern after exacting some revenge against Ribas nearly five years after their first matchup. Additionally, future fights are discussed for Santiago Ponzinibbio following his third-round finish of Carlston Harris in the co-main event, Cesar Almeida after his Knockout of the Year frontrunner moment against Abdul Razak Alhassan, along with fellow main card winners Roman Kopylov, Christian Rodriguez, Punahele Soriano, and more following the promotion's 2025 debut card. Follow Mike Heck: @m_heckjr 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