MMA Fighting

UFC 300 is less than 10 days away, and it is absolutely stacked from top-to-bottom — from the opening prelim between Deiveson Figueiredo and Cody Garbrandt, all the way to the main event for the light heavyweight title between Alex Pereira and Jamahal Hill. On paper, is UFC 300 the greatest card in UFC history? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck weighs in on that question, and states his case for why the answer is yes. Additionally, listener questions include the Pereira vs. Hill title fight, where Garbrandt would go in the bantamweight division if he defeats Figueiredo, Thursday's PFL San Antonio fight card, Dustin Poirier possibly getting a title shot at 155 pounds against Islam Makhachev, Frank Mir discussing his UFC 100 fighter pay, 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 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

The UFC is going back to the APEX. After taking to the road for UFC Atlantic City last weekend, the world's leading MMA promotion returns to its home base for one final card before the magnificent UFC 300 finally arrives. This week the headliner is a middleweight rematch between Brendan Allen and Chris Curtis, so as always, the No Bets Barred boys are here with a full breakdown of the fights this weekend. Conner Burks and Jed Meshew open the show with a brief recap of UFC Atlantic City before diving into this underwhelming APEX offering. Can Chris Curtis upset Brendan Allen yet again? Will Germaine de Randamie make a triumphant return to the cage after nearly four years out of action? Plus, what about KSW and PFL? All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 84 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks 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

Chris Weidman inovou ao “nocautear” Bruno Blindado com dedadas no olho no UFC, e Igor Severino acabou demitido por morder seu adversário em sua estreia na organização. O Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe os dois brasileiros, além de entrevistar Valter Walker e Norma Dumont, que lutam sábado no octógono, e Juliana Velasquez, ex-campeã do Bellator que faz trilogia com Liz Carmouche, quinta, na PFL. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Chris Weidman invented a TKO via eye pokes to “knock out” Bruno Silva in the UFC, and Igor Severino was released form the organization for biting his opponent in his octagon debut. Trocação Franca welcomes both Brazilians to this week’s show, plus interviews with UFC Vegas 90’s Valter Walker and Norma Dumont, plus ex-Bellator champion Juliana Velasquez, who makes her PFL debut Thursday in a trilogy match with Liz Carmouche. 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 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

UFC Atlantic City sure had its moments, and delivered a bunch of talking points coming out of it — both good and bad – but the seemingly unanimous phrase used to describe the event as a whole is "super weird." Between the multiple eye pokes that led to finishes, to hip knockouts, to finishes and results that left us scratching our heads, this was not a normal event. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to this past Saturday's event, Manon Fiorot's dominant decision win over Erin Blanchfield in the main event, Chris Weidman's controversial victory over Bruno Silva and how the former champion has reacted to it, along with Joaquin Buckley's great in-cage performance, but not-so-great microphone work after getting the co-main event win over Vicente Luque. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC St. Louis main event between Derrick Lewis and Rodrigo Nascimento that has been unanimously criticized, referees still not enforcing penalties during fights, UFC 300, 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 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin discussing the latest from the world of combat sports including a controversial ending at UFC Atlantic City where Chris Weidman finally got back on track but not without a pair of eye pokes that played a part in Bruno Silva’s demise. Brown explains that the real culprit in those fouls isn’t necessarily Weidman’s fault but rather something that the UFC needs to fix. We’ll also discuss our picks for the most interesting fight at UFC 300 with the card now less than two weeks away. Brown will also pitch his idea for more weight classes in the UFC with hopes that it could not only curb more extreme weight cutting but it could increase opportunities for fighters to compete across multiple divisions, which is what everyone seems to want to do these days! All that and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer 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

Miesha Tate, Cris Cyborg, and Holly Holm step into the brutal, unforgiving world of "Fight Valley." What could possibly go wrong? On this episode of This is CineMMA, the MMA Fighting movie review crew gets down and dirty on the mean streets of New Jersey as we follow the harrowing adventure of Windsor (Susie Celek), an out-of-her-element reporter on a quest to avenge her sister's death. A hardened brawler named Jabs (Tate) takes our heroine under her wing, but the clock is ticking and there may not be enough time to prepare her for a final showdown with the dangerous Church (Cyborg). Alexander K. Lee, Jed Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon don their toughest-looking hoodies as they try to make sense of Fight Valley's frantic fight scenes, rank the acting performances of the featured MMA stars, and have a chuckle at some of the best C-movie one-liners you'll ever hear. How much of the film is carried by Tate? Where does Windsor rank among the worst main characters in a martial arts movie? And is repeatedly punching a bucket of rocks a good base for MMA? Step into Fight Valley with us for the answers to these questions and more. Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc 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

Manon Fiorot has done more than enough to earn a title shot in the women's flyweight division after delivering a one-sided performance in her first promotional main event against Erin Blanchfield at UFC Atlantic City. While merit is certainly on Fiorot's side, is timing a different story altogether — to the point where Fiorot may have to take another fight while she waits to see how the Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko trilogy fight plays out? 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 Fiorot after her dominant victory over Blanchfield. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Joaquin Buckley following his stoppage win over Vicente Luque in the co-main event, Chris Weidman after his controversial win over Bruno Silva, along with fellow main card winners Nursulton Ruziboev, Kyle Nelson, Chidi Njokuani, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Manon Fiorot closed out Saturday's UFC Atlantic City win by sweeping the scorecards against Erin Blanchfield in the main event. As dominant as Fiorot's performance was, compared to other moments on the card, it was incredibly tame as controversy stole the headlines. Following the UFC's most recent Fight Night event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and José Youngs react to Fiorot's lopsided victory, discuss if a title shot will be next for the surging contender, and where Blanchfield goes from her first octagon loss. Additionally, the panel discusses Joaquin Buckley's second-round finish of Vicente Luque in the co-main event and where he fits in the welterweight division, Chris Weidman getting his first victory since 2020 against Bruno Silva, the controversy surrounding the multiple eye pokes that led to the finish, the bout being changed from a TKO to a technical unanimous decision, Weidman's reaction to it in his post-fight interview with Michael Bisping, and other storylines from a bizarre event. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs 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

The stakes are high for Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot as they battle in the main event of Saturday's UFC Atlantic City event with the winner expected to fight for the UFC women's flyweight title against the winner of the assumed trilogy bout between Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko. Ahead of the UFC's next Fight Night lineup, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Eric Jackman preview Saturday's card, the main event between Blanchfield and Fiorot, talk which headliner needs the win more, and what potential pairing would be most interesting in a title fight. Additionally, they'll talk the co-main event between Vicente Luque and Joaquin Buckley, the card as a whole for an out-of-the-APEX show, answer viewer questions, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

The UFC's middleweight division is fascinating right now, especially with the addition of Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC Saudi Arabia in June. As of now, new champion Dricus Du Plessis' first title defense is not lined up, but should he face bitter rival Israel Adesanya next, or the man who gave Du Plessis his toughest fight to date in Sean Strickland? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the middleweight title picture, why the word "deserves" should be limited from the vocabulary of UFC fans, and which fighter has the best chance of being Du Plessis' next opponent. Additionally, listener questions include Dana White's relationship with the MMA media, getting into the MMA space, the UFC Atlantic City main event between Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot, 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 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 been an interesting week in the MMA world as the UFC gets ready to return to Atlantic City on the road to UFC 300 — which includes Dana White hinting at bringing a pay-per-view event to the United Kingdom this year. If it happens, who should be featured on the card? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel takes live viewer questions about the promotion's return to the U.K., if Leon Edwards and Tom Aspinall will defend their belts in front of their home crowds, and who else could fill up the lineup. Additionally, they'll answer questions about topics such as UFC Saudi Arabia getting a slew of fights announced, including Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev as the main event, former flyweight champ Brandon Moreno announcing he's taking a break from MMA and what that means for the division in the short term, Saturday's UFC Atlantic City card headlined by Erin Blanchfield vs. Manon Fiorot, Rose Namajunas' big win at UFC Vegas 89 and where she goes from here, and whatever else you would like to discuss. Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew as they answer your questions all show long. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR 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

UFC CEO Dana White made a big announcement on Wednesday night as he revealed five fights for the upcoming UFC Saudi Arabia card on June 22, including the middleweight main event between former champion Robert Whittaker and the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev. Was this the right call? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the Whittaker vs. Chimaev matchup, why it was tremendous matchmaking, the stakes attached to it, and what it means for Sean Strickland, Paulo Costa, and other big names in the division. Additionally, listener questions include the top fights at UFC 300, Dana White's relationship with the media, what could headline UFC 302, the Jailton Almeida vs. Alexander Volkov fight getting scrapped with Volkov now fighting Sergei Pavlovich in Saudi Arabia, 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 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

The UFC is heading to Atlantic City, baby! After back-to-back weeks in the world's most famous APEX, the world's leading MMA promotion hits the road this Saturday for UFC Atlantic City, headlined by a presumptive women's flyweight title eliminator bout between Erin Blanchfield and Manon Fiorot. So as always, the No Bets Barred boys are here with a full breakdown of the fights this weekend. Conner Burks and Jed Meshew open the show with a brief recap of their winning weeks at UFC Vegas 89 before diving into the 14-fight card with Saturday. Will Erin Blanchfield keep rolling against Manon Fiorot? Does Vicente Luque still have enough in the tank to get past Joaquin Buckley? Can Chris Weidman stave of Father Time for one last, great moment? All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 83 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks 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

Bruno Blindado, Herbert Burns e Virna Jandiroba saem na mão sábado no UFC Atlantic City, mas antes conversam com o Trocação Franca. Blindado aposentará Chris Weidman? Herbert tem novidades sobre o novo técnico do Botafogo? Virna a uma vitória do cinturão? O programa traz, ainda, um papo com Deiveson Figueiredo, que vê Cody Garbrandt frágil mentalmente a caminho do UFC 300. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Bruno Silva, Herbert Burns, and Virna Jandiroba compete Saturday at UFC Atlantic City, but first they stop by Trocação Franca for exclusive interviews. Will Silva retire Chris Weidman? Does Burns have any inside info on who will manage Botafogo? Is Jandiroba a win away from the UFC title? Plus, Deiveson Figueiredo discusses his UFC 300 clash with ‘mentally fragile’ Cody Garbrandt. 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 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

Former two-time UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno is not retiring from MMA, but he's taking a bit of a break after suffering his second straight split decision loss. What does this mean for Moreno moving forward? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Moreno's decision to take some time away from the sport, runs down the timeline from Moreno's win over Brandon Royval at UFC 255 in November 2020 to now, and becoming one of the division's biggest stars. Additionally, listener questions include UFC CEO Dana White planning to make a big announcement for the promotion's return to the United Kingdom, and it likely becoming a pay-per-view event, Rose Namajunas' flyweight future following her UFC Vegas 89 main event win over Amanda Ribas, how UFC Atlantic City stacks up compared to other on-the-road Fight Night events, 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 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with Alan Jouban joining the show alongside MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin to discuss the latest in MMA including Rose Namajunas’ big win over Amanda Ribas and her viability as a true contender at 125 pounds. What should come next for her? We’ll discuss on the show. We’ll also talk about the infamous moment that Igor Severino may have effectively ended his career after biting opponent Andre Lima, which got him disqualified in the fight and then bounced out of the UFC as a result. Plus, Jouban addresses former WEC champion Jamie Varner criticizing Laura Sanko for her commentary work this past weekend. We’ll also discuss the latest with Conor McGregor following the release of the ‘Road House’ movie this past weekend as well as a look ahead at UFC 300. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! 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

Conor McGregor, Hollywood superstar? On the inaugural episode of This is CineMMA, the MMA Fighting movie review crew takes a long look at the recently released #RoadHouse remake (re-imagining? remix?), which also features Jake Gylenhaal as a disgraced #UFC fighter looking to turn his life around when he gets a job as a bouncer in the Florida Keys. Join Alexander K. Lee, Jed Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon as we give you a blow-by-blow account of the best fight scenes, the most convincing combatants, and the most inspiring martial arts quotes from what some are calling a cinematic masterpiece. How is McGregor as an actor? How is Gylenhaal as a fighter? And how would any of the characters in Road House fare if they actually got a call-up to the UFC? All that, plus we answer the question of where Road House ranks among the greatest MMA-related movies of all time. Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc 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

Rose Namajunas earned her first octagon victory in the UFC's flyweight division with a hard-fought main event showing against Amanda Ribas at Saturday's UFC Vegas 89 fight card. Where does the victory put "Thug Rose" in the championship discussion at 125 pounds? 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 Namajunas after snapping her two-fight skid in her unanimous decision win over Ribas. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Karl Williams following his decision win over Justin Tafa in the co-main event, Edmen Shahbazyan after his first-round finish of A.J. Dobson, Payton Talbott after his impressive stoppage win over Cameron Saaiman, along with fellow main card winners Youssef Zalal, Fernando Padilla, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Rose Namajunas got back in the winning column on Saturday, taking a competitive unanimous decision win over Amanda Ribas in the main event of UFC Vegas 89. But while the main event had the most stakes on the card, it was a preliminary bout that stole the show when Igor Severino became the first fighter in UFC history to be disqualified for biting, when he chomped down on Andre Lima's arm in just the second fight of the evening. Following Saturday's fight card at the UFC APEX, MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew, Eric Jackman, and Alexander K. Lee react to the event, Namajunas's big win and bite-gate. Additionally, they discuss Edmen Shahbazyan's great comeback, Payton Talbott's arrival as a legitimate prospect, who took home bonuses, and Andre Lima's ability to turn getting bit into the biggest win of the evening. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

Former UFC strawweight champ Rose Namajunas makes her second octagon appearance in the flyweight division as she faces Amanda Ribas in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 89 fight card in the hallowed APEX. With a couple of setbacks heading into this bout, is "Thug Rose" still considered a title contender, most notably with a win? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee preview this weekend's fight card, the main event between Ribas and Namajunas, and what's at stake for the popular Namajunas in her second fight at 125. Additionally, they'll discuss the rest of the card, Justin Tafa facing Karl Williams in the co-main event, the anticipated bantamweight prospect matchup between Cameron Saaiman and Payton Talbott, Billy Quarantillo facing the returning Youssef Zalal, plus, they'll answer viewer questions live on the show. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Conor McGregor seems quite confident his return to the octagon will happen this summer against Michael Chandler, but it's certainly fair for fans to be hesitant about getting too excited since this fight has been teased for quite some time now. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to McGregor's interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour and if the confidence levels have risen in regards to a McGregor return happening in the next few months. Additionally, listener topics include what happens if McGregor goes into free agency and what type of impact it could make, what PFL should do if that happens, the future of UFC fighter contracts after the antitrust lawsuits were settled, if fighter pay will change any time soon, how the proposd PFL pay-per-view event featuring Francis Ngannou's promotional debut will do in terms of how many buys it could do, 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 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

Conor McGregor says it's all systems go for his return to the UFC's octagon this summer, although the particulars have not been revealed. Should fans of the sport be excited about the UFC's biggest star's latest update, or will it be a let down in the end? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to McGregor's recent interview on The MMA Hour and the expectation's for his return. Additionally, they discuss the UFC agreeing to settle the antitrust lawsuits, the two big fights set for UFC 301, including Alexandre Pantoja vs. Steve Erceg for the flyweight title and the return of Jose Aldo against Jonathan Martinez, Donn Davis' interview on Wednesday revealing that Francis Ngannou will make his #PFL debut "no later" than September on pay-per-view in Saudi Arabia, Ngannou saying he may want to return to boxing for his next fight, Saturday's UFC Vegas 89 event headlined by Rose Namajunas vs. Amanda Ribas and the return of Bellator on Friday, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti and Jed Meshew. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

The UFC 300 poster was revealed on Wednesday and it was met with a whimper, along with a bunch of shade thrown in the UFC's direction. Should we have been surprised by this poster considering the landscape of the company in 2024? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the poster, and gives an explanation as to why it was to be expected with the promotion being the star of the show in today's UFC. Additionally, topics include the UFC reaching a settlement agreement for $335 million in their antitrust lawsuits, what we've been able to learn about it, why it's a short term loss for the UFC, yet worth every penny for them in the long run, what it means for the PFL and other promotions, Bo Nickal's UFC 300 main card placement, Calvin Kattar vs. Aljamain Sterling flying under the radar, 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 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

In this breaking news podcast, MMA Fighting's Steven Marrocco talks to John Nash about the $335 million settlement in the antitrust lawsuit against the UFC. Nash talks about his immediate reaction to the number, what that means for fighters going forward, whether or not the settlement will change the UFC's business practices, and more. Follow Steven Marrocco: @MMAFightingSM Follow John Nash: @heynottheface 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

For the second week in a row, the UFC is back in the world's most famous APEX. After the entirely forgettable UFC Vegas 88, the world's leading MMA promotion returns to its home base for UFC Vegas 89 as the company continues the march onward towards UFC 300. But it's not just UFC this weekend as Bellator makes its long-awaited return under new ownership, with Bellator Belfast, and of course the No Bets Barred boys are here with a full breakdown of this MMA doubleheader. Conner Burks and Jed Meshew open the show lamenting the state of APEX cards and the negative effect they have on the bank account, before diving into UFC Vegas 89 and Bellator Belfast. Can Rose Namajunas insert herself into the flyweight title picture on Saturday? Is it Jeremy Kennedy's time to shine against Patricio Pitbull? And how many gimmick parlays is too many gimmick parlays for one weekend? All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 82 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks 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

With UFC 299 and UFC 300 being absolutely stacked fight cards on paper, many were wondering what would take place at UFC 301 in May, which will serve as the promotion's return to Brazil. Over this past weekend, it was announced that Alexandre Pantoja will defend his flyweight title against Steve Erceg, while it was also revealed that Jose Aldo would end his MMA retirement to face Jonathan Martinez — and both fights certainly got the MMA community talking. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the bookings, the reactions from fans, and the giant opportunities for Erceg and Martinez. Additionally, listener topics include whether or not the UFC should move Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan from UFC 300 to UFC 301, Alex Pereira potentially making a quick turnaround for the May pay-per-view if he gets out of his fight with Jamahal Hill unscathed, the UFC's next three events as lead-ins to the April 13 mega event, what UFC 302 could look like, 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 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin discussing the latest news from combat sports and opening the show with a tribute to Mark Coleman after he saved his parents from a house fire this past week. Thankfully after a short stay in the hospital, Coleman is on the road to recovery and we’ll discuss our favorite times with the former UFC heavyweight champion after hosting a podcast with him for two years and he now serves as a mainstay at Brown’s Ohio based gym. We’ll also discuss the blowback that UFC 300 has received over the main event and Bo Nickal taking as pot on the main card over more established veterans. Did the UFC make the right move putting Nickal as one of the top fights on arguably the biggest card of the year? Plus Brown cautions doubters counting out Jamahal Hill as he prepares to return to action against Alex Pereira in the light heavyweight main event. We’ll also discuss the latest happening with Conor McGregor as he continues to details his frustration with not fighting and Michael Chandler’s decision to wait on his return. Brown argues that while he understands why Chandler is waiting, he’s not sure a win over McGregor will do as much for him now as it would have a few years ago. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! 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

A luta mais aleatória dos últimos tempos foi anunciada para o dia 20 de julho no Texas, e o Trocação Franca recebe Rafael Cordeiro, treinador de Mike Tyson, para destrinchar o confronto com o youtuber Jake Paul. O programa traz, ainda entrevistas com Amanda Ribas, que lidera o UFC Vegas 88 contra Rose Namajunas, os campeões Patrício Pitbull e Roberto Satoshi, e ainda Ricardo Carcacinha. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The most unexpected fight in recent memory is set for July 20 in Texas, and Trocação Franca welcomes Mike Tyson’s coach Rafael Cordeiro to discuss the upcoming boxing match with Jake Paul and much more. This week’s episode also features interviews with UFC Vegas 88 headliner Amanda Ribas, Bellator champion Patricio Pitbull, RIZIN titleholder Roberto Satoshi, and UFC’s Ricardo Ramos. 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 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

Marcin Tybura picked up a much needed victory, and handed Tai Tuivasa his fourth consecutive loss with a first-round submission in the main event of UFC Vegas 88. Despite not having a name in mind for a callout, where will Tybura go after getting back into the win column in a headline spot? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to predict what is next for Tybura following his win over Tuivasa from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Ovince Saint Preux after his upset win over Kennedy Nzechukwu, Christian Rodriguez following his split decision win over Isaac Dulgarian, along with Macy Chiasson and Gerald Meerschaert following their submission victories on the main card, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Tai Tuivasa's losing streak has been extended to four fights after Marcin Tybura made relatively quick work of the powerful knockout artist in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 88 event. In an event that had very few stakes, is the story more about Tybura's impressive win, or Tuivasa getting stopped yet again? Following Saturday's fight card at the UFC APEX, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Eric Jackman, and Alexander K. Lee react to the event, Tybura's submission victory, and what things could look like for both fighters moving forward. Additionally, they discuss the near skirmish following the Bryan Battle vs. Ange Loosa co-main event ending in a no contest, who the MVP of the event was, who took home the bonuses, Christian Rodriguez getting the split nod over Isaac Dulgarian, Gerald Meerschaert's submission win adding to his impressive middleweight résumé, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

Tai Tuivasa returns to the UFC octagon this Saturday to face Marcin Tybura in the main event of UFC Vegas 88, which takes place at the APEX. Following a memorable UFC 299 event, can "Bam Bam" provide some more fireworks and avoid a four-fight losing streak, or will Tybura be the one who gets back in the win column? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and José Youngs previews this weekend's Fight Night event for the UFC, the headliner between Tuivasa and Tybura, and discuss what is at stake for both fighters in the matchup. Additionally, they'll talk the co-main event between up and coming welterweights Bryan Battle and Ange Loosa, Ovince Saint Preux making his 27th octagon appearance, other standout fights and fighters the crew has their eyes on, how the card from top-to-bottom looks on paper, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs 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

The UFC 300 lineup is, from start to finish, one of the best cards the promotion has ever put together. During Saturday's UFC 299 event, the main card was revealed and it included the middleweight matchup between Bo Nickal and Cody Brundage — which didn't sit well with a large number of MMA fans. But when you really look at the construction of the main card, it's not a bad choice for a few reasons. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Nickal getting the main card bump for the historic card, and why it's actually a good call when you really look at it. Additionally, listener questions include UFC fighter pay, the ongoing lawsuit against the UFC, Saturday's UFC Vegas 88 event, what constitutes a star that has negotiating power in the UFC, matchmaking for Kevin Holland and Benoit Saint Denis following UFC 299, 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 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

Dustin Poirier continues to defy the MMA gods on his road to another potential UFC title shot, but where does he sit in the lightweight pantheon — and how would a championship change his legacy? Podcast pals Jed Meshew and Damon Martin join Shaun Al-Shatti this week to deep dive into 155 pounds around (36:30) and reach a surprising conclusion about Poirier in the aftermath of UFC 299. The gang also tackles the three-way debate muddying the top of the bantamweight division around (6:20) and whether MMA Fighting is being unfair to Sean O'Malley for not unanimously voting the champ as the consensus No. 1, ask which of the big wins by Jack Della Maddalena and Michael Page are more impactful to the welterweight division around (1:02:10), pour one out for a ex-UFC champ leaving the rankings around (1:16:15), plus much more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti 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

This past weekend delivered unforgettable moments for MMA fans — both on the positive and negative sides — with Anthony Joshua’s absolutely ferocious knockout of Francis Ngannou, and the incredible UFC 299 event that featured spectacular performances from Sean O’Malley, Dustin Poirier, and others. What was the biggest fallout story from this past weekend? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses the fallout of both Joshua vs. Ngannou and UFC 299 events, where Ngannou, O’Malley, and Poirier go from here, and other storylines from this past weekend in combat sports. Additionally, they’ll discuss the hotly discussed ending to the Cedric Doumbe vs. Baysangur Chamsoudinov fight from PFL Europe this past Thursday, react to the booking of Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal in a boxing match on June 1, and much more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting’s Jed Meshew and Shaun Al-Shatti. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

Dustin Poirier took a super difficult fight against surging contender Benoit Saint Denis in the co-main event of UFC 299 and delivered an incredible highlight-reel knockout that sent the MMA community into a frenzy. With so much going on at lightweight, and champion Islam Makhachev needing an opponent for potentially as early as June, did "The Diamond" punch his ticket to one last opportunity at undisputed UFC gold? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on Poirier's performance, whether he will be next for Makhachev, and his incredible run as a 155-pounder in the UFC. Additionally, listener questions include the booking of Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal in a boxing match June 1 and the pros and cons with the bout, Sean O'Malley's big win over Marlon Vera, Colby Covington's response to Ian Machado Garry, if Curtis Blaydes gets the fight with Tom Aspinall for the interim heavyweight title with his win over Jailton Almeida, 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 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

The UFC is back in the world's most famous APEX. Following the sensational UFC 299, the world's leading MMA promotor returns to its home base for UFC Vegas 88 this weekend, headlined by a heavyweight fight between Tai Tuivasa and Marcin Tybura, so of course the No Bets Barred boys are here with a full breakdown of the card. Conner Burks and Jed Meshew speak fondly of the wonder that was last weekend in combat sports, where UFC 299, Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou, and a Cedric Doumbe fight all took place. Then it's on to the business at hand and a deep dive into UFC Vegas 88. Can Tai Tuivasa recapture the "Bam Bam" magic and knock out Marcin Tybura? Will Kennedy Nzechukwu like the new "Kenny Nunchucks" nickname Jed has chosen for him? How will the other Bryan Barberena, the other "Bam Bam", do on Saturday? All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 81 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks 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

O eletrizante UFC 299 não terminou bem para o Brasil (a não ser que seu nome seja Michel Pereira), e o Trocação Franca repercute tudo o que rolou em Miami na companhia de Tarso Doria e Gustavo Chagas. O podcast ainda disseca os rankings em busca de nomes para o UFC Rio, entrevista Jafel Filho e Leandro Higo sobre suas próximas lutas, e revela em primeira mão adversária de Gabi Garcia para seu returno ao MMA. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. UFC 299 did not end well for Brazilians (except Michel Pereira), and Trocação Franca debates the aftermath alongside Tarso Doria and Gustavo Chagas. The podcast dissects the rankings while looking for names to help salvage UFC 301 in Rio de Janeiro, chats with Jafel Filho and Leandro Higo about their upcoming bouts, and breaks news of Gabi Garcia’s return to MMA. 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 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin discussing the fallout from the biggest moments of the past few days including Francis Ngannou’s knockout loss to Anthony Joshua as well as everything that unfolded at UFC 299. In just his second professional boxing match, Ngannou took on Joshua in a main event fight from Saudi Arabia but unlike his first fight with Tyson Fury, things did not go nearly as well this time. Joshua ultimately ended Ngannou’s night with a violent knockout in the second round. So following that loss what should Ngannou do next? Does he need to return to MMA or should he stick around for another boxing match? We’ll also discuss Sean O’Malley’s lopsided win over Marlon “Chito” Vera and what that performance said about him and his standing as bantamweight champion. Plus Dustin Poirier pulled off an incredible win over Benoit Saint Denis in a fight where it seemed like the entire world expected him to lose. Afterwards, Poirier hinted at a potential title bout with Islam Makhachev in June but should that actually happen? We’ll also react to the news that Jake Paul is boxing Mike Tyson in a fight scheduled for Cowboy Stadium in Dallas in July. Why is this fight even happening and what do we expect to take place when Paul clashes with the 58-year-old former heavyweight champion? All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! 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

Following his one-sided unanimous decision win over Marlon Vera in the main event of UFC 299 to retain the bantamweight title, Sean O'Malley said his top choice would be a champ vs. champ bout with UFC featherweight champ Ilia Topuria in Spain. Will "Sugar" get his wish, or will he face No. 1 contender Merab Dvalishvili? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and guest host Jed Meshew discuss where O'Malley goes from his impressive victory, and also give their thoughts on what could be next for Vera. Future matchups are also discussed for Dustin Poirier and Benoit Saint Denis after Poirier's show-stealing knockout victory, Michael Page following his victory over Kevin Holland in his octagon debut, Jack Della Maddalena after stopping Gilbert Burns in a dramatic comeback, former champ Petr Yan after getting back on track against Song Yadong, and more from the memorable event. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR 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

Sean O'Malley is still the UFC bantamweight champion after delivering a spectacular bell-to-bell performance in his first title defense against Marlon Vera in the main event of UFC 299, sweeping the scorecards for all three judges. Will O'Malley's next fight be a title defense against Merab Dvalishvili, or will "The Sugar Show" head to the featherweight division for a clash with new champ Ilia Topuria? Following Saturday's memorable night of fights in Miami, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Eric Jackman react to O'Malley's tremendous showing, his post-fight callout of Topuria, and how he matches up with Dvalishvili. Additionally, the panel discuss Dustin Poirier's highlight-reel knockout of Benoit Saint Denis, Michael Page's successful UFC debut against Kevin Holland and where "MVP" goes, Jack Della Maddalena's comeback finish of Gilbert Burns, Petr Yan getting back on track with a hard fought win over Song Yadong, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

Relive the magic of UFC 299's live watch party with Mike Heck and Conner Burks! Intro (5:00) Curtis Blaydes stops Jailton Almeida in Round 2 (7:35) Petr Yan vs. Song Yadong (37:22) Yan wins unanimous decision (1:00:15) Gilbert Burns vs. Jack Della Maddalena (1:16:15) JDM shocks Burns with comeback KO (1:32:13) Ripping packs part 1 (1:43:29) Kevin Holland vs. Michael Page (1:53:40) MVP wins decision (2:15:02) Joanna Jedrzejczyk announced for UFC Hall of Fame (2:17:45) Ripping packs part 2 (2:26:00) Dustin Poirier vs. Benoit Saint Denis (2:33:30) Poirier knocks out Saint Denis in Round 2 (2:45:16) Ripping packs part 3 (2:56:55) Sean O'Malley vs. Marlon Vera (3:08:40) O'Malley wins lopsided decision to retain title (3:43:15) Check out the original UFC 299 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/live/Js0MYHODiuU?si=3o1zYKudoFwd4b9u 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

Anthony Joshua scored one for boxing over Francis Ngannou, and he did it in violent fashion. On Friday, Joshua faced Ngannou in a 10-round boxing match in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a possible shot at the undisputed heavyweight on the line. Despite his limited boxing experience, Ngannou's impressive performance against Tyson Fury in his professional boxing debut had many wondering if "The Predator" was simply not bound by conventional thought, and might author an upset victory to shock the boxing purists out there. Unfortunately for him though, Joshua did not get the memo. Joshua demolished Ngannou with relative ease, dropping the lineal MMA champion in the first round, before dropping him again in the second and then finishing the fight with one of the most brutal knockouts you'll ever see. Was Ngannou overhyped to begin with? Where does he go from here? Was this a win for the PFL? All this an more is discussed as the MMA Fighting crew reacts to the massive KO. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc 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

UFC 299 is absolutely stacked, and that includes the heated rematch for the UFC bantamweight title between Sean O'Malley and Marlon Vera. Who will get their hand raised in the second chapter of their rivalry, and what will it mean for the rest of the bantamweight division? Ahead of Saturday's monster lineup in Miami, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Eric Jackman preview the pay-per-view event, the O'Malley vs. Vera 2 title fight, and discuss if Merab Dvalishvili will be awaiting the winner. Additionally, the panel will talk the five round co-main event between Dustin Poirier and Benoit Saint Denis and the stakes attached to it at 155 pounds, Michael Page's UFC debut against Kevin Holland, other fascinating storylines, answer viewer questions, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

The weekend the combat sports world has been waiting for is upon us with Joshua vs. Ngannou going down on Friday, while the loaded UFC 299 event takes place Saturday in Miami, Fla. Francis Ngannou will look to shock the boxing world once again as he faces Anthony Joshua, while Sean O'Malley defends his UFC bantamweight title for the first time in an attempt to exercise the demons in a rematch with Marlon Vera. On an all-new episode of Between the Links, the panel discusses the Joshua vs. Ngannou fight that takes place in Saudi Arabia, the stakes involved for Ngannou win or lose, and what will happen with his MMA career based on the results. Additionally, they'll discuss the storyline angles regarding O'Malley vs. Vera, where both guys go should they capture the title, if Merab Dvalishvili should have a rooting interest, Dustin Poirier vs. Benoit Saint-Denis, the most interesting fight outside of the top two, the announcement of Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson at AT&T Stadium on July 20 on Netflix, and a Q&A final round — if it gets that far. 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 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

Can Francis Ngannou shock the boxing world again and, perhaps, find his way into a shot at the undisputed heavyweight championship of the world? The former UFC heavyweight champion will have his opportunity this Friday in Saudi Arabia as he takes on former world champ Anthony Joshua. Ahead of the loaded fight card, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew preview the highly anticipated Joshua vs. Ngannou matchup, discuss the differences between this fight and the one Ngannou recently had with Tyson Fury, where Ngannou goes either way, and what Joshua will need to prove in victory to show he's truly back to form. Additionally, they'll discuss other interesting matchups on the card, and take viewer questions. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR 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

UFC 299 is here and it is ridiculous. This Saturday at the Kaseya Center in Miami, Fla., UFC 299 takes place headlined by a bantamweight grudge match between champion Sean O'Malley and former foe Chito Vera. That's just the tip of the iceberg though at 299 is one of the most stacked cards in recent memory, with some people even suggesting it could be better than UFC 300 on paper. Plus, Francis Ngannou is boxing Anthony Joshua this weekend as well so with this amount of insane action, the No Bets Barred boys had to bring in a third chair. Conner Burks and Jed Meshew are joined by Tony Calatayud this week as he's boots on the ground in Miami, and the trio dives deep into all the insane action awaiting us this weekend. Can Sean O'Malley get his revenge on Chito Vera? Has Father Time caught up to Dustin Poirier? How will Michael "Venom" Page look in his UFC debut? And can anything stop the ascent of Jailton Almeida. All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 80 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Tony Calatayud: @10DayTony 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

This is one of the big weeks marked on the calendars for fight fans around the world with Francis Ngannou looking to shock the boxing world once again when he faces Anthony Joshua on Friday, and a loaded UFC 299 event on Saturday, headlined by the rematch between Sean O'Malley and Marlon Vera for UFC bantamweight gold — and that's just a couple of the big storylines for this weekend. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses UFC 299 and Joshua vs. Ngannou, the O'Malley vs. Vera second chapter, and everything that could happen based on the results. Additionally, listener questions include Petr Yan's return to the octagon against Song Yadong this Saturday, Michael Page's UFC debut against Kevin Holland, Alexandre Pantoja's next title defense following Muhammad Mokaev's win at UFC Vegas 87, Jamahal Hill challenging Alex Pereira at UFC 300, 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 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

Jailton Malhadinho desafiará Tom Aspinall no UFC 301, no Rio, caso passe por Curtis Blaydes? Sean O’Malley será capaz de subir de peso em busca do cinturão de Ilia Topuria? Francis Ngannou voltará ao MMA para enfrentar Renan Problema? O Trocação Franca dessa semana responde (ou ao menos tenta responder) essas e outras questões na companhia de Malhadinho, Problema, Pedro Munhoz e Augusto Tanquinho. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Will Jailton Almeida challenge Tom Aspinall at UFC 301 with a win over Curtis Blaydes? Can Sean O’Malley move up in weight to challenge Ilia Topuria for a second UFC belt? Will Francis Ngannou ever return to MMA to face Renan Ferreira? Trocação Franca answers (or at least tries to) these and other key questions in interviews with ‘Malhadinho’, ‘Problema’, Pedro Munhoz and Augusto ‘Tanquinho’ Mendes. 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 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin breaking down the biggest fights at UFC 299 and preview the boxing match between Francis Ngannou and Anthony Joshua on Friday. Sean O’Malley defends his title in the main event at UFC 299 when he clashes with Marlon “Chito” Vera, who is the only person to hand him a loss in his career. On paper the fight didn’t make much sense with other contenders ahead of Vera in the rankings but this was a handpicked fight made by O’Malley to avenge his only loss. But does “Chito” have a great chance at winning or is this just O’Malley’s fight to win? Ultimately, Brown explains why it may not matter because he’s not sure the winner of the UFC 299 main event will hold the title for very long, especially with Merab Dvalishvili waiting in the wings. We’ll also discuss the gravity surrounding Dustin Poirier’s latest fight against Benoit Saint Denis and what a win or a loss could mean for his future. Brown also discusses his interest in Michael “Venom” Page finally making his UFC debut and the difficulty he could face against a veteran like Kevin Holland. We’ll also give our breakdown for the Ngannou vs. Joshua fight and debate if that result could potentially decide if “The Predator” ever returns to MMA again or not. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! 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

The UFC returned to the APEX for one last stop on the road to Miami and UFC 299, and in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 87, Jairzinho Rozenstruik outclassed Shamil Gaziev and earned a fourth-round referee stoppage TKO. Is it now time to book the fight for "Bigi Boi" that fans have been asking to see for years with Derrick Lewis? 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 Rozenstruik from a matchmaking perspective following his bounce back victory. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Vitor Petrino following his co-main event decision win, Muhammad Mokaev after his victory over one-time title challenger Alex Perez, Umar Nurmagomedov following his dominant win over a game Bekzat Almakhan, Steve Erceg after knocking out Matt Schnell, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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