MMA Fighting

UFC volta à Califórnia com o recheado UFC 298, e o Trocação Franca recebe o peso-pena Patrício Pitbull para avaliar a disputa de cinturão até 66kg entre Alexander Volkanovski e Ilia Topuria, além de comentar a fusão PFL-Bellator e o que esperar do seu futuro após a luta com Jesus Pinedo, na Arábia Saudita. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Marcos Pezão, Brendson Ribeiro e Amanda Lemos, que lutam sábado pelo UFC 298. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. With UFC returning to California with a stacked UFC 298 lineup, Trocação Franca welcomes featherweight great Patricio Pitbull to break down Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria, which headline the show for the 145-pound belt, and discuss the PFL-Bellator merger and what to expect from his future after he faces Jesus Pinedo in Saudi Arabia. The podcast also features interviews with UFC 298 fighters Marcos Rogerio de Lima, Brendson Ribeiro, and Amanda Lemos. 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 300 is still without a main event as we're officially two months away from the historic fight card, and while there may be some options being discussed, the mystery remains as strong as ever. Will the UFC 300 headliner be announced this week before tickets go on sale? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the glaring open spot for April's pay-per-view event, his prediction for what will end up getting the slot, and how the conversation has taken on a life of its own. Additionally, listener questions include UFC 298, the main event between Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria, the card not getting the shine it deserves, Amanda Lemos' road back to a title shot ahead of her fight with Mackenzie Dern, Paulo Costa's UFC future, 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer is back with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin looking ahead at UFC 298 this Saturday. Alexander Volkanovski defends his featherweight title in the main event against Ilia Topuria but there seems to be a growing narrative that this will be an end to his run as champion, especially after falling to lightweight king Islam Makhachev this past October. Is Volkanovski losing a step or is recency bias really clouding people’s judgment about the viability that the featherweight champion will once again reign supreme? We’ll also discuss Henry Cejudo publicly firing his head coach Eric Albarracin and what that could mean for his upcoming fight against Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 298. Brown reveals mistakes he’s made in his own career when splitting with a coach and what that could mean for Cejudo in a do-or-die fight where he’s said a win gets him a title shot or a loss could send him back to retirement. Brown also offers his assessment of Ian Machado Garry and how far he could go in the welterweight division as he prepares for a matchup with Geoff Neal at UFC 298. Plus Brown reveals his best celebrity interactions from the past including a meeting with Slayer that he’ll never soon forget. 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

Merab Dvalishvili competes at UFC 298 with a potential title shot on the line when he faces former two-division champion Henry Cejudo in a marquee fight on the main card. Just days away from the fight, Dvalishvili sits down with MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin to discuss the fight and Cejudo’s claims that he’s either going to earn another shot at gold with a win or likely retire with a loss. Dvalishvili also addresses his disappointment to get passed over for a title shot of his own so Sean O’Malley could attempt to avenge a past loss to Marlon “Chito” Vera. Speaking of O’Malley, Dvalishvili also takes aim at the reigning 135-pound champion for his claims that Cejudo is only fighting at UFC 298 because he needs the money. Finally, Dvalishvili discusses Aljamain Sterling moving up to featherweight and who he believes is actually the best bantamweight in the world right now. All this and more in a special interview with Dvalishvili ahead of his return at UFC 298. 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

UFC lead commentator Jon Anik joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck for his monthly pay-per-view preview as they discuss Saturday's UFC 298 event, the incredibly intriguing main event between Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria for the featherweight title, people sleeping on the card with chatter surrounding UFC 299 and UFC 300, Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa, Merab Dvalishvili vs. Henry Cejudo, and much more. 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

Jack Hermansson returned to the octagon for the first time in over a year and did so as a massive underdog against Joe Pyfer in the main event of UFC Vegas 86, but the wily veteran had other plans as Hermansson got back in the win column with a hard fought decision win. "The Joker" called out Nassourdine Imavov following the victory, but will that be direction the UFC goes? 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 Hermansson after his main event win. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Dan Ige following his nasty first-round knockout win over Andre Fili in the co-main event, along with fellow main card winners Ihor Potieria, Gregory Rodrigues, Michael Johnson, Rodolfo Vieira, 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

Jack Hermansson reminded fans why he's been a fixture in the UFC's middleweight rankings and he battled through early adversity to steal momentum before outworking the dangerous Joe Pyfer over 25 minutes in the main event of UFC Vegas 86. Following Saturday's Fight Night event at the UFC APEX, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Eric Jackman, and Alexander K. Lee react to Hermansson's veteran showing in victory, discuss what we learned about Pyfer in defeat and why people shouldn't be too quick to write him off. Additionally, the panel talks Dan Ige's brutal first-round knockout win over Andre Fili in the co-main event, other standout performances from the likes of Gregory Rodriguez, Rodolfo Vieira, Carlos Prates, Bogdan Guskov, along with additional takeaways from the UFC's final stop on the road to UFC 298. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

The UFC makes one more stop at the APEX on the road to UFC 298 with UFC Vegas 86, and for the third event in a row, the middleweight division gets top billing as veteran Jack Hermansson will look to stop the incredible momentum of DWCS standout Joe Pyfer. Will experience win out, or will the powerful Pyfer make his presence felt in the 185-pound rankings? MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Eric Jackman preview Saturday’s event, the main event between Hermansson and Pyfer, and what’s at stake for both fighters. Additionally, they’ll discuss the featherweight co-main event between Dan Ige and Andre Fili, other bouts that stand out in terms of intrigue, the fight that is flying under the radar the most, plus, they’ll answer your questions at the end of the show. 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

There are fighters who came through on the ground floor to become big stars in the UFC and the sport of mixed martial arts, there's others who just didn't have it when the octagon door closed, but there are others who seemed to have it all and their stories were never fully told. Who is the biggest "what if" fighter in UFC history? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, it's Free-For-All Friday where listener topics include some of those fighters who, for one reason or another, weren't able to finish their career stories in the way fans may have expected them to. Additionally, questions include star building in the UFC, the UFC Vegas 86 main event between Jack Hermansson and Joe Pyfer, the WWE's WrestleMania kickoff press conference on Thursday in Las Vegas, 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 majority of the MMA fanbase is looking for answers to two questions — what will headline UFC 300, and when is Conor McGregor making his UFC return? On Wednesday, UFC CEO Dana White says he hopes it happens in the fall, which doesn't line up to what McGregor and potential opponent Michael Chandler have said recently. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss White's update on McGregor, why it's taking so long, and if Chandler should consider moving on since he's approaching nearly two years out of the octagon. Additionally, topics may include Dustin Poirier's Hokey Pokey move a week ago ahead of his UFC 299 bout with Benoit Saint Denis, this past weekend's UFC Vegas 85 fight card, this Saturday's UFC Vegas 86 event headlined by Jack Hermansson vs. Joe Pyfer and much more. Host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew to discuss these topics and more. 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

While Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler seem to think they are settling their score during International Fight Week, UFC CEO Dana White revealed that he's hopeful the fight takes place in the fall. Is this update something we should be prepared for, or is this a brilliant swerve by White to keep fans focused elsewhere? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to White's update from Wednesday's edition of The Pat McAfee Show, how fans have been responding from both sides of the equation, and discusses whether or not this could be a work. Additionally, topics include events at the UFC APEX, the UFC's upcoming TV deal, what could headline UFC 300 if Dricus du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya can't get done, UFC 298 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

After a lackluster UFC Vegas 85 card, MMA's leading promotion returns with yet another middleweight main event in the world's most famous Apex, this time between Jack Hermansson and Joe Pyfer. Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick things off with a brief recap of last weekend's card and a status check on Flyweight Understan, before diving into yet another Apex card. After all, if the UFC can't deliver the most fun fights in the world every weekend, we can certainly make them more entertaining by recklessly putting money on them. Can Joe Pyfer break into the Top-10 and announce himself as a legitimate middleweight threat? Will Dan Ige ever not be a Top-15 featherweight? Just how cooked is Michael Johnson? And how many middleweight fights is too many for one card? All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 77 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

Thiago Marreta abre o jogo sobre o caso de doping na PFL, o desafio com Yoel Romero na Arábia Saudita e as chances de seus ex-rivais Jamahal Hill e Magomed Ankalaev contra Alex Poatan. O Trocação Franca ainda conversa com Carlos Prates sobre as mais de 100 lutas de kickboxing que fez antes de focar no MMA, e Gregory Robocop a uma vitória de desafiar um rankeado no UFC. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Thiago Santos opens up about his doping suspension, fighting Yoel Romero in Saudi Arabia, and the odds of former rivals Jamahal Hill and Magomed Ankalaev dethroning Alex Pereira. Trocação Franca also chats with UFC Vegas 86 fighters Carlos Prates, who discusses fighting more than 100 kickboxing bouts before fully committing to MMA, and Gregory Rodrigues, who meets Brad Tavares in what he hopes is his final bout before challenging a ranked middleweight. 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

We have certainly seen upcoming UFC title challengers enter a championship fight with a lot of confidence, but Ilia Topuria might be taking things to a whole different level as he feels he will run through longtime champion Alexander Volkanovski with ease at UFC 298 next Saturday? While a victory certainly sets him up for superstardom, what if he doesn't deliver under the bright lights in Anaheim? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Topuria's interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour, discusses whether or not the challenger has put himself in a must-win situation, and where he goes depending on the result. Additionally, listener topics include the fallout of UFC Vegas 85, Nassourdine Imavov and Renato Moicano's next moves following their victories, the UFC 300 main event still not being announced, 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 in combat sports. This past week saw UFC 299 lose a marquee fight for a matter of hours after Dustin Poirier declared his bout with Benoit Saint Denis was off after he couldn’t come to terms with the promotion on his deal. A few hours later, Poirier chalked it up to a “misunderstanding” and that his fight with Saint Denis was back on again. Brown offers his take as a tenured fighter in the UFC as well as revealing details behind his own negotiations with the promotion. We’ll also discuss the rules changes suggested by California State Athletic Commission executive director Andy Foster, particularly with the definition of a “downed opponent” as well as the 12-to-6 elbow rule. Will these rules actually change and even if the rules are approved, will the various commissions actually adopt the new rule set? We’ll discuss that and much 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

Nassourdine Imavov got it done in the headliner of UFC Vegas 85 with a majority decision victory over Roman Dolidze on Saturday night at the UFC APEX. With the middleweight division being in a very intriguing place at the top, where does Imavov go following his first main event win inside the octagon? 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 first UFC win since September 2022, and if he will fight someone ranked higher or lower in the rankings. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Renato Moicano after his hard fought decision win over Drew Dober in the co-main event, Randy Brown following his quick knockout victory over Muslim Salikhov, Natalia Silva after picking up the biggest win of her career against Viviane Araujo, along with fellow main card winner Charles Radtke, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nassourdine Imavov ended UFC Vegas 85 with a wacky main event victory over Roman Dolidze, and Renato Moicano returned from a long layoff to get his hand raised — and a microphone in his face — in the co-main event against the game Drew Dober. What were the biggest takeaways from those two performances? Following the UFC's most recent Fight Night event on Saturday at the APEX, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Eric Jackman, and Alexander K. Lee react to Imavov's headlining win, his verbal run-ins with Chris Curtis during and after the fight, the scoring, the illegal knee, and discuss where he goes from his victory in 17 months. Additionally, they'll discuss Moicano's decision victory and post-fight interview, Natalia Silva and Molly McCann's victories, other standout moments from the card, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic 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

After a rare weekend off, the UFC returns to their home base for their first event since UFC 297 with UFC Vegas 85, and much like the promotion's first pay-per-view card of 2024, Saturday's Fight Night slate will see the middleweight division take center stage as Roman Dolidze and Nassourdine Imavov battle it out in the main event. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew preview Saturday's card, the main event between Dolidze and Imavov, and the stakes attached to it. Additionally, they'll discuss the lightweight co-main event between Renato Moicano and Drew Dober, the low-key bangers for the card, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

Dustin Poirier said he was out of UFC 299, and a little less than five hours later, he was back in to face Benoit Saint-Denis in the co-main event of the UFCs return to Miami. The former interim champion kicked off one of the weirdest stretches in the MMA space, one that will be remembered for quite some time. On a special edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to a wild day in MMA, Poirier vs. Saint-Denis being a go, and more. Additionally, he'll take your questions about all things MMA, including the response from Dana White on Thursday, some of the weird reactions on social media, Saturday's UFC Vegas 85 event, 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

Dustin Poirier revealed on Thursday that his announced co-main event matchup with Benoit Saint-Denis at UFC 299 was no longer happening because he and the UFC "couldn't come to terms" on the fight and that contracts weren't in place before UFC CEO Dana White made his announcement. Although we've gone down this road with the UFC many times before in the past, and Poirier was the one who put it out there, somehow, White is putting the blame on the media. In the end, the fight is in fact happening as Poirier announced late Thursday afternoon. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Damon Martin take you on a journey as all of the chaos unfolded over the five-hour span, as they react to Poirier's explanation as to why the fight may not be happening, discuss how this isn't the first time Poirier has been involved in a story like this, their immediate reaction to White's Instagram stories in response, their prediction for how this plays out, all before reconvening to react to the fight being back on. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin 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

After a rare weekend off for the UFC, the promotion returns to the APEX on Saturday for UFC Vegas 85. While there are some solid fights on the card, all eyes still seem to be fixated on the still-building UFC 300 lineup — which is still currently without a main event. On top of that, Dustin Poirier dropped a bit of a bombshell himself on Thursday saying his announced fight with Benoit Saint-Denis for UFC 299 is "off." On an all-new edition of Between the Links, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew return for a special fan Q&A edition of the program, where they answer your questions about UFC 300, Saturday's Fight Night card headlined by Roman Dolidze vs. Nassourdine Imavov, Kayla Harrison's upcoming UFC debut against Holly Holm at 135, and if her recent comments have made you more confident she'll make the weight, if the UFC will end up putting Conor McGregor in the main event of UFC 300 against Michael Chandler or another fighter, and anything else on your mind in the world of MMA and combat sports. 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

With the UFC 300 main event still to be announced, many fans and pundits have declared that the biggest fight the promotion can put together for the card would be the trilogy fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz? With Diaz seemingly wanting to do things more independently without being under contract with the UFC, but the door being still open following his departure, could Diaz find his way back in the octagon in 2024? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the chatter about a Diaz return to the company, why he doesn't see it happening at UFC 300, or in 2024 at all, and if there's a chance it could ever happen. Additionally, listener questions include the hesitation from the UFC to announce the UFC 300 main event, if there will ever be another McGregor-like star that emerges in the UFC, Kevin Lee announcing he's coming out of retirement, 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

After a week off following UFC 297, the No Bets Barred Boys are back with a full breakdown of this Saturday's UFC Vegas 85, headlined by a middleweight matchup between Roman Dolidze and Nassourdine Imavov. This week, hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew jump right into things by discussing what can only be described as an underwhelming fight card, featuring a limited number of name fighters. But you know what they say, sometimes those cards end up being the most fun, and even if it doesn't, there are still 13 opportunities to get some money down this weekend, so the boys are here to help. Is 2024 the year for Georgia MMA to take over? Can the co-main event live up to the hype or will Renato Moicano and Drew Dober disappoint? And just how faithful are the loyal citizens of Flyweight Under Nation? All this and more are discussed on this week's episode. Tune in for episode 76 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

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of our favorite fighters in MMA history. On the 15th anniversary of his epic clash with B.J. Penn (and the 20th anniversary of his UFC debut), Jed Meshew is joined by Alexander K. Lee and Nick Baldwin to take a deep dive into Georges St-Pierre, the owner of the greatest single career in MMA history. The Prince That Was Promised from almost the moment he stepped into the octagon for the first time, St-Pierre's early career was more difficult that many remember, failing in his first attempt at claiming the welterweight title and then, once he finally broke through and beat Matt Hughes, losing the belt in his first title defense to Matt Serra, in what remains the biggest upset in MMA history. Setbacks like that could have broken a lesser fighter but instead they spurred St-Pierre on to even greater heights as he would reclaim the title and then put together one of the most dominant runs in the history of MMA, rewriting the record books and redefining what it means to be a professional cage fighter. What were our favorite moments, where did St-Pierre fall short and who exactly is Roberta Bondar? Listen in as we remember the spectacular career of one of MMA's all time greats. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Nick Baldwin: @NickBaldwinMMA 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

Renato Moicano dispara contra os pesos-leves do UFC, em especial Michael Chandler, pela postura submissa diante de Conor McGregor. O lutador comentou o duelo de sábado com Drew Dober e revelou quem gostaria de enfrentar no UFC Rio, em maio. Larissa Pacheco também bate ponto no podcast para falar da “fuga” de Kayla Harrison para o UFC e a demora de Cris Cyborg em aceitar enfrentá-la. O programa recebe ainda Viviane Araújo e Natalia Silva, que se enfrentam sábado no UFC. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Renato Moicano joins the pod and fires shots at all sorts of UFC lightweights, especially Michael Chandler for the way he’s acted ahead of his supposed fight with Conor McGregor. Moicano breaks down Saturday’s co-main event bout with Drew Dober and reveals who he’d like to fight next at UFC 301 in Brazil. Larissa Pacheco also stops by to discuss Kayla Harrison leaving PFL for the UFC and Cris Cyborg not facing her at the PFL vs. Bellator show in Saudi Arabia. Today's show also features interviews with Viviane Araujo and Natalia Silva, who meet Saturday at UFC Vegas 85. 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

Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler certainly planted a lot of seeds this past weekend in regards to their fight being shifted from June to April's UFC 300 event, but could the UFC be on the same page as the two former world champion competitors? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the current UFC 300 lineup, the possibility of McGreor vs. Chandler being the main event, and his opinion on if the battle between TUF coaches is the promotion's first choice. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC's middleweight division, UFC Vegas 85 this Saturday headlined by Roman Dolidize vs. Nassourdine Imavov, if Aljamain Sterling was the most disrespected UFC champion of all-time, 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 reacting to the latest news from the sport including Kayla Harrison joining the UFC roster and her upcoming fight against Holly Holm. The fight serves as Harrison first official trip to 135 pounds after primarily competing at 155 pounds for most of her career. Brown reacts to the arduous journey that Harrison is about to take getting to bantamweight and the trials and tribulations she may face before and after her weight cut. We'll also discuss recent comments from UFC play-by-play man Jon Anik after he confessed that he may not have much time left in the sport after interacting with some toxic criticism from fans. Brown gives his take on the situation and why he backed up Anik with a post on Twitter. Plus somehow we end up talking about Taylor Swift and the attention she's brought to the NFL after getting into a relationship with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. 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

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of our favorite fighters in MMA history. On this episode, the MMA Fighting staff takes a deep dive into the late Kimbo Slice, an internet legend who became the biggest star in MMA. Back in the early 2000s when MMA was still making its way into the mainstream, the more sophomoric corners of the internet birthed an entirely different kind of combat sport: bareknuckle fights in backyards and boatyards all across Miami. At the time, Kimbo Slice - real name Kevin Ferguson - was a driver and bodyguard for a pornography company, and began engaging in street fights for extra money. Not long after that, Kimbo's friends decided to video those fights and upload them to the internet, and almost overnight, a sensation was born. Thanks to those videos, Kimbo Slice became one of the most talked about fighters on the planet, rubbing shoulders with real life celebrity A-listers. Soon afterwards, he made the move into MMA, headlining the first MMA show on network television and then even joining up with the UFC. A move to Bellator and then boxing followed, and all the while, Kimbo remained a beloved figure in the space until his tragic passing in 2016 at age 42 due to congestive heart failure. But though Kimbo is gone, his spirit lives on as do the many legendary moments he gave us. Which of those were our favorite and what was it like to live through the Kimbo Slice era? Listen in as the MMA Fighting crews remembers remembers the life and times of one of MMA's greatest stars. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaheen Al-Shatti: @shaunalshatti 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

Ahead of his return at UFC 300, Max Holloway sits down with MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin to preview his fight with Justin Gaethje and how that “BMF” title bout came together. Holloway addresses his request for the fight and how the timing worked out so he and Gaethje could throw down at the historic card in April. Holloway also discusses his interest in potentially headlining the fight or at least serving as “the people’s main event.” He’ll also give his take on the upcoming featherweight title fight between Alexander Volkanovski and Ilia Topuria and who he expects to win. Holloway also explains why he believes guys like himself and Gaethje are “the last of a dying breed” in MMA where nasty trash talk seems to get far more attention lately than just being the best fighter on the planet. All this and more in a special sit down with Holloway ahead of UFC 300. 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

UFC lead commentator Jon Anik is getting a bit fed up with the negative portion of the MMA fanbase, and rightfully so, which has led him to ponder his future as a broadcaster in this space. Quite frankly, Anik deserves much better, and the UFC watching experience would change drastically if he weren't around. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Anik's comments on his podcast, it being more than OK that he expressed those feelings about the situation, and how this is the new norm for the sport and it doesn't seem to be going anywhere anytime soon. Additionally, listener questions include Kayla Harrison's UFC signing, if any other PFL or Bellator fighters will follow suit, Alex Pereira's next move — whether he would face Magomed Ankalaev or Jamahal Hill next — 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

Dricus du Plessis is the brand new UFC middleweight champion after defeating Sean Strickland via split decision in a fascinating 25-minute battle in the main event of UFC 297. The bout has led to a lot of questions about the future of the division, if du Plessis will share the octagon with rival Israel Adesanya next, and where Strickland goes after his title reign came to an end. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses the fallout of Saturday's pay-per-view headliner, if we should expect du Plessis vs. Adesanya at UFC 300, and what could be next for Strickland with his star power continuously rising. Additionally, they'll discuss Raquel Pennington's title win in the co-main event, the overall grade for UFC 297, Kayla Harrison signing with the UFC to face Holly Holm at UFC 300, where the excitement levels are now that more fights have been announced for the April event, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and José Youngs. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Josè 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

Kayla Harrison is now a UFC fighter, as she prepares to face former UFC champion Holly Holm at UFC 300 on April 13 in Las Vegas. With Harrison now in the picture, and Amanda Nunes teasing a potential comeback following UFC 297, could the stars align to put a Nunes vs. Harrison matchup together? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to UFC CEO Dana White's stunning announcement from Tuesday night, what it would take to get Nunes out of retirement, and the pros and cons of the signing. Additionally, listener questions include the clip of Jon Anik expressing his frustration with the negative portion of the UFC fanbase, and why he's spot on, the current shape of UFC 300, a potential Francis Ngannou vs. Ryan Bader fight in the PFL, Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway, 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

UFC CEO Dana White made a big announcement on Tuesday night as it relates to UFC 300, but it likely was not what most fans were expecting as White revealed that the promotion has signed former PFL champion Kayla Harrison, and she will meet former UFC champion Holly Holm at the historic pay-per-view event — not at featherweight, but at bantamweight. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to the big news of Harrison's signing, and the matchup with Holm. Additionally, they discuss the many questions surrounding this news, including major concerns about Harrison's ability to make the bantamweight limit, how much it improves the division now championed by Raquel Pennington, the PFL losing one of their biggest stars, along with one of the big fights on the table with Cris Cyborg, if Harrison's arrival could lead to an Amanda Nunes comeback, if Julianna Peña should be worried, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

It's time to ask the question: Is women’s bantamweight in 2024 the worst division in UFC history? Podcast pals Mike Heck and Jed Meshew join co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee this week to decipher that mystery and unpack everything UFC 297. The gang hits DDP's title win and whether his reign will finally bring stability to an unstable division around (10:05), and whip out their tier lists around (22:45) to debate where middleweight sits among the most fun divisions in MMA. Then, the crew puts on their investigative hats around (48:10) to determine whether it's an exaggeration to officially call this new women's bantamweight class the worst division in UFC history. All that plus the latest moves by Movsar Evloev and Magomed Ankalaev around (1:13:30), plus much more. ***NOTE: This episode was recorded before the UFC announced its signing of Kayla Harrison. While it's an interesting wrinkle, no doubt, we stand by this conversation. At least until Harrison proves she can make 135 pounds safely and consistently.*** Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Mike Heck @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Benoit Saint Denis encara Dustin Poirier no UFC 299 de olho em uma possível chance ao cinturão dos leves da organização, e o treinador Daniel Woirin, que garimpou o ex-militar francês antes do seu inicio no MMA, fala ao Trocação Franca sobre sua incrível trajetória. O podcast recebe ainda o jornalista Coutinho, do Canal Encarada, para destrinchar o UFC 297 e suas ramificações. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Benoit Saint Denis meets Dustin Poirier at UFC 299 eyeing a future shot at the lightweight belt, and coach Daniel Woirin, who discovered the former French paratrooper before his start in MMA, joins Trocação Franca to look back at his incredible journey. The podcast also welcomes Canal Encarada’s Coutinho to break down all the UFC 297 storylines and future ramifications. 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

Following UFC 297 this past Saturday, UFC color commentator and analyst Laura Sanko joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to react to the first UFC pay-per-view of the year, Dricus du Plessis' middleweight title win over Sean Strickland, explains why she scored the fight for du Plessis, the performances of both fighters, where both guys go from here, Raquel Pennington winning the women's bantamweight title, the potential of an Amanda Nunes comeback, agreeing with Jasmine Jasudavicius getting a 10-7 round over Priscila Cachoeira, and more. 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

Sean Strickland may have lost the fight and the UFC middleweight title this past weekend at UFC 297, but in Nate Diaz like fashion, he still came out of the event in the court of public opinion as a winner. If the UFC goes ahead and books a fight between new champ Dricus du Plessis and Israel Adesanya at UFC 300, should Strickland vs. Khamzat Chimaev in a title eliminator also be added to the lineup? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to UFC 297, the razor close main event between du Plessis and Strickland, and discusses why Strickland vs. Chimaev makes all the sense in the world. Additionally, listener questions include the somewhat lackluster 2024 opener for the UFC pay-per-view year, Raquel Pennington's bantamweight title win, the possibility of an Amanda Nunes return to the UFC, how the UFC has changed over the last decade-plus, if the WWE's deal with Netflix could impact the UFC in their next TV deal, 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 as we react to the fallout from UFC 297 with Alan Jouban joining MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin on the latest episode. We’ll discuss the main event fight where Dricus du Plessis dethroned Sean Strickland in a razor-close split decision in the main event. The scorecards were close but did the judges get it right? Plus, how should the judges be informed about accidental fouls like the clash of heads that actually caused the gruesome cut suffered by Strickland midway through the fight? We’ll also talk about Raquel Pennington winning the vacant women’s bantamweight title and the bigger problems facing that division in 2024 and beyond. A few years ago, the women’s bantamweight division was a marquee weight class but with Amanda Nunes and Ronda Rousey gone, the stars have disappeared and it doesn’t look like there are any prospects on the rise. We’ll also discuss some possible fights for UFC 300 and how we need to handle our expectations for that historic card. 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

Dricus du Plessis accomplished his goal of becoming UFC champion on Saturday night with a hard fought decision win over Sean Strickland in the main event of UFC 297. While du Plessis has his sights set on Israel Adesanya for his first title defense — possibly at UFC 300 — where does Strickland go after losing the title? 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 Strickland and du Plessis from a matchmaking perspective following Saturday's pay-per-view event. Additionally, future matchups will be discussed for new women's bantamweight champion Raquel Pennington following her dominant decision win over Mayra Bueno Silva in the co-main event, along with main card winners Neil Magny, Chris Curtis, Movsar Evloev, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dricus du Plessis is the new UFC middleweight champion after defeating Sean Strickland via split decision in the main event of UFC 297. While the fight was very close, did the judges get it right? Following Saturday's pay-per-view event, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to the scorecards, du Plessis' championship win, and what will be next for the new champion. Additionally, they'll discuss Raquel Pennington's bantamweight title win against Mayra Bueno Silva, her likely first title defense against Julianna Pena, the overall grade for the promotion's first PPV event of 2024, Movsar Evloev's impressive win over Arnold Allen and where it puts him at 145 pounds, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

Relive the magic of UFC 297's live watch party with Mike Heck and Conner Burks! Check out the original UFC 297 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/live/6FIz-M8SNS0?si=yP1U5cUPg8Y3I7Ve Timestamps: Arnold Allen vs. Movsar Evloev (31:10) Evloev wins decision to improve to 18-0 (54:45) Reaction to Frankie Edgar's Hall of Fame announcement (58:45) Ripping packs part 1 (1:06:30) Chris Curtis vs. Marc-Andre Barriault (1:11:46) Curtis wins decision (1:32:42) Ripping packs part 2 (1:40:18) Mike Malott vs. Neil Magny (1:45:30) Magny pulls out wild comeback finish with late in Round 3 (2:03:43) Raquel Pennington vs. Mayra Bueno Silva (2:20:23) Pennington nearly gets finish in Round 5 (2:50:31) Pennington wins vacant bantamweight title via unanimous decision (2:55:50) Ripping packs part 3 (2:59:50) UFC 4 best-of-3 (3:04:30) Sean Strickland vs. Dricus du Plessis (3:12:47) Du Plessis becomes new champ via split decision (3:49:00) 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

Sean Strickland and Dricus du Plessis will battle in the main event for the UFC middleweight title of UFC 297 in Toronto on Saturday, the promotion's first pay-per-view event of 2024. While the card as a whole isn't anywhere near comparable to the UFC's next three pay-per-view cards, the Strickland vs. du Plessis matchup is doing a lot of heavy lifting as the anticipation continues to build. Ahead of the event, and the 185-pound title fight, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Eric Jackman preview UFC 297, Strickland vs. du Plessis, the potential of the winner turning around for UFC 300, and more. Additionally, they'll discuss the vacant women's bantamweight championship co-main event between Mayra Bueno Silva and Raquel Pennington, which other main card fighter is the panel keeping their eye on, the low-key banger of the card, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

Sean Strickland had the Toronto crowd eating out of the palm of his hand at Thursday's UFC 297 press conference ahead of his title defense against Dricus du Plessis. With a victory, where could it propel Strickland in terms of being a top draw for the UFC moving forward? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the wild pre-fight presser in Toronto, how over Strickland was with the crowd, and his approach to a gentleman's agreement for an all-out war with du Plessis. Additionally, topics include multiple fighters missing weight for UFC 297, the stakes in the Arnold Allen vs. Movsar Evloev fight on Saturday, Mike Malott fighting the experienced Neil Magny and if the betting line is a bit wider than expected, Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway, UFC Saudi Arabia, 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

The first UFC pay-per-view of the year takes place this Saturday in Toronto with UFC 297, and in the main event, the heated rivalry between Sean Strickland and Dricus du Plessis will be settled for the middleweight championship. While the card isn't as stacked on paper as the rest of the pay-per-view slate thus far, the stakes are quite high for one of the more exciting divisions in the promotion. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses Saturday's fight card and its quality, what is on the line in the Strickland vs. du Plessis main event, Mayra Bueno Silva vs. Raquel Pennington for the vacant women's bantamweight title, and more. Additionally, they'll discuss the PFL vs. Bellator champions event that was announced earlier this week, Donn Davis' comments about the UFC Saudi Arabia getting postponed, Dana White announcing Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway for UFC 300, and much more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe 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 297 is coming quickly, but April's UFC 300 event stole some headlines with UFC CEO Dana White announcing that Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway will take place for the BMF title at the event. While the fight will likely produce fireworks and incredible action, Gaethje is perceived as next in line for Islam Makhachev and the lightweight title, and Holloway still sits at the top of the featherweight division, was this the right fight to make? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to White's announcement of Gaethje vs. Holloway, and how it can shake things up in a wild way at 155. Additionally, listener questions include Saturday's pay-per-view event in Toronto, Sean Strickland vs. Dricus du Plessis, the UFC 297 media day, the PFL vs. Bellator champions event being announced, if the UFC could still have Conor McGregor headline 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

UFC lead commentator Jon Anik joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview Saturday's UFC 297 fight card, the main event between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis, discusses the in-crowd fight between the two, if there's a line that can be crossed in fight promotion, the co-main event between Raquel Pennington and Mayra Bueno Silva, his biggest takeaway from 2023, UFC 300, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR 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 297 takes place this Saturday as the UFC returns to Toronto for the first time since 2018 and its brought two title fights with it. In the co-main event, Raquel Pennington faces Mayra Bueno Silva for the vacant women's bantamweight title, and then in the main event, Sean Strickland puts his middleweight strap on the line against Dricus du Plessis, and the No Bets Barred boys are here to cover every angle of 2024's first PPV event. This week, hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew are joined by Alexander K. Lee who is boots on the ground in Toronto for this fight card, where they get a look into the vibes in Canada ahead of UFC 297. Then it's right into the breakdowns where the boys discuss the likelihood of finishes in the main and co-main events, the return of Flyweight Unders, and even some specialty props ahead of what is sure to be a heated pre-fight press conference. Tune in for episode 75 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks 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

O UFC anunciou Charles do Bronx x Arman Tsarukyan para definir o próximo adversário de Islam Makhachev pelo cinturão dos leves, e o Trocação Franca recebe Diego Lima e Marcos Parrumpinha, treinadores que estarão em corneres opostos em Las Vegas, para destrinchar o combate. O podcast traz, ainda, uma homenagem ao lutador Diego Braga, morto esta semana no Rio de Janeiro. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. UFC announced Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan for UFC 300, a No. 1 contender bout to determine who’s next for lightweight champion Islam Makhachev, and coaches Diego Lima and Marcos “Parrumpinha” daMatta break down both sides of the matchup. The podcast also features a tribute to veteran fighter and coach Diego Braga, father of PFL 2023 finalist Gabriel Braga, killed this week in Rio de Janeiro. 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 CEO Dana White dropped two big fights for the upcoming UFC 300 event, including an all-action lightweight bout for the BMF title between Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway. With some of the negative vibes surrounding the event in its early stages, does this announcement begin the trend towards positivity? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, Jed Meshew, and Eric Jackman react to White's massive announcement, the Gaethje vs. Holloway five-rounder, discuss what it means for the lightweight title picture and Islam Makhachev's next move, if this fight means the rumored Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad welterweight title fight could move to a different event, and more. Additionally, they discuss White also announcing Jim Miller vs. Bobby Green for the historic card, if it is the right fight to make for Miller, along with how the card currently stands eight official fights in. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

Eric Nicksick joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss Francis Ngannou booking another boxing match against Anthony Joshua in March, how nothing involving Ngannou surprises him anymore, and how preparation will be different than the Tyson Fury fight. Additionally, they talk Sean Strickland's preparation for his UFC 297 main event fight vs. Dricus Du Plessis, his reaction to the booking, Strickland and Du Plessis getting into a fight in the crowd and the emotions surrounding it, if Strickland has changed since becoming champ, other fighters at Xtreme Couture to keep an eye on, and more. 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