MMA Fighting

The No Bets Barred boys are back this week with a deep dive into the PFL Championship card on this special Thanksgiving Week episode. On Friday, the 2023 PFL Championships go down in Washington D.C. and co-hosts Connor Burks and Jed Meshew are here to break down all the big fights on this special holiday fight week. Topics discussed include the wisdom of Wiki-capping, which underdogs are worth throwing a few units on, and even another All-In bet from Jed. Will this one backfire like he last All-In bet did? Tune in Friday to find out. Tune in for episode 70 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

A PFL finalmente oficializou a compra do Bellator após meses de novela e especulação, e o Trocação Franca recebe Patrício Pitbull e Juliana Velasquez, campeão e ex-campeã do Bellator, para desmembrar todos os detalhes já anunciados dos planos da PFL para 2024, e se a nova mega-organização tem condições de bater de frente com o UFC pelo posto de número um do MMA. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It’s finally official that PFL has acquired Bellator, and Trocação Franca welcomes Bellator stars Patricio Pitbull and Juliana Velasquez to react to the news and break down all the details on the deal, plus preview what PFL has in store for 2024. Can the company clash heads with the UFC for the No. 1 spot in mixed martial arts? 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 PFL absorbing Bellator was massive news on Monday with an expanded roster, a "reimagined" Bellator, and Donn Davis stating that PFL is now on the verge of being a "co-leader" in the MMA space alongside the UFC — even saying that UFC CEO Dana White is now "worried" about this new merger. But did White, or anyone in the UFC, lose any sleep with this news? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the big news of the week, Davis' interview with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour, his claims about the move making PFL an equal powerhouse to the UFC, and White being worried — which is likely is not. Additionally, more listener questions about the deal, the future of Bellator champions, potential interesting matchups between PFL and Bellator champions, how the deal was announced, Brendan Allen's title hopes at 185 pounds following hiis UFC Vegas 82 win over Paul Craig, 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 returns with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin reacting to the news that the PFL has purchased Bellator MMA as well as everything that unfolded at UFC Vegas 82 and what’s coming up at UFC Austin. Of course, the biggest news of the day came with the PFL acquiring Bellator MMA with plans to promote a champion versus champion card in 2024. The PFL gets a massively improved roster with all of the fighters from Bellator MMA but does this actually make them a legitimate threat to the UFC? PFL founder Donn Davis believes UFC CEO Dana White is “worried” but is that actually true? Does the UFC even see the PFL as a true competitor? Plus we’ll discuss Brendan Allen’s big win over Paul Craig and the new look UFC Fight Night cards in the UFC APEX that aren’t exactly the most stacked events in the world. Plus new Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix joins the show for his first interview since defeating Sergio Pettis to claim the title this past Friday at Bellator 301. Mix reveals who he wants next in his first title defense while also detailing his future plans now that the PFL has purchased Bellator. 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

Bellator as we know it is dead. MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Jed Meshew, and Damon Martin react to another crazy day in MMA following PFL's long-awaited acquisition of Bellator and PFL chairman Donn Davis' interview on The MMA Hour about the vision of PFL/Bellator moving forward. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew 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

Brendan Allen continued his impressive run in the UFC's middleweight division with a dominant performance, and finish over Paul Craig in the main event of UFC Vegas 82. "All-In" called for a No. 1 contender fight in the aftermath, and with the streak he's on, it's certainly not out of the realm of possibility, but will he get it? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss where Allen could go from a matchmaking perspective following his show closing submission win at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Michael Morales following his decision win over Jake Matthews, Chase Hooper after submitting Jordan Leavitt, Amanda Ribas following her stunning third-round knockout of Luana Pinheiro, along with fellow main card winners Peyton Talbott, Myktybek Orolbai, 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

Brendan Allen kept his impressive winning streak going in his first scheduled UFC main event on Saturday as he dominated and finished Paul Craig to cap off UFC Vegas 82. With another finish under his belt, is Allen a true championship threat moving forward at 185, and what should be next for "All-In"? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Jed Meshew react to Allen's impressive showing, discuss who he could fight next, and Craig's future at 185 pounds. Additionally, they discuss Michael Morales' victory over Jake Matthews, Amanda Ribas' incredible third-round finish of Luana Pinheiro and where she could go at 115, Mike Beltran's controversial stoppage of the Trey Ogden vs. Nikolas Motta fight and it being ruled a no contest, the APEX continuing to be a thing, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs 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

Following a memorable UFC 295 event, the UFC returns to their home base for UFC Vegas 82, which will be headlined by a pivotal matchup in the middleweight division between surging contender Brendan Allen, and the always-exciting Paul Craig. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and José Youngs preview Saturday's card, including the Allen vs. Craig main event, the stakes attached to it, and what could be awaiting the winner. Additionally, they'll discuss the card quality as a whole, the low-key interesting matchups, some of the exciting prospects on the promotion's second-to-last trip to the APEX for 2023, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs 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

Alex Pereira became a two-division UFC champion this past Saturday when he finished Jiri Prochazka in the UFC 295 main event, but he accomplished that feat after leaving the middleweight division behind for good to take on a new challenge. With many current fighters talking about possibly moving up weight classes to challenge for titles being in the news, has the conversation become too watered down? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses why the idea of "champ-champ" status has lost its luster, but how it can become interesting again with two different additions to the conversation. Additionally, listener topics include Bellator 301 likely being the promotion's final event under the current regime, what matchups between Bellator 301 fighters and current UFC competitors would be interesting, Aljamain Sterling teasing working on a matchup with Max Holloway in his featherweight debut, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe 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 295 delivered an exciting event at Madison Square Garden, and when the dust settled in the World’s Most Famous Arena, Alex Pereira entered the two-division champion club, while Tom Aspinall stated his case to be MMA’s best heavyweight when he ran over Sergei Pavlovich in just over a minute. Where does Pereira go from here? And could we get a fight between Aspinall and Jon Jones? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel recaps UFC 295, discusses what could be next for Pereira in his first title defense at 205, if the Israel Adesanya trilogy fight could happen, and Jamahal Hill feeling disrespected ahead of a potential matchup between the former champ and Pereira. Additionally, topics include Aspinall’s interim title win, if he could have enough juice to change the UFC’s plans away from a fight between Jones and Stipe Miocic, other standouts from UFC 295, Saturday’s UFC Vegas 82 headlined by Brendan Allen vs. Paul Craig, Bellator 301 being a great card on paper — but possibly the final one for the promotion — and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and recent Gamebred Bareknuckle winner Randy Costa. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Randy Costa: @RandyCosta135 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

Alex Pereira vs. Jamahal Hill for the UFC light heavyweight title will be a super intriguing matchup, but it's doubtful that Pereira will sit on the sidelines for that long while Hill recovers from his achilles injury. If the UFC chooses to keep Pereira active, will he get his third fight with Israel Adesanya, or will there be a new challenger for the title? On an all-new Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer that question, talks options for Pereira, and why the UFC probably won't wait for Hill before booking the UFC's newest two-division champion. Additionally, listener questions include Bellator 301 possibly being the final promotional event, Scott Coker's run as the promotional face of the organization, Benoit Saint-Denis' future in the UFC's lightweight division, the UFC Vegas 82 main event between Brendan Allen and Paul Craig, Allen's ceiling at 185, 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 No Bets Barred boys are back this week with a full breakdown of UFC Vegas 82 and plenty of Bellator discussion as on Friday, Bellator 301 takes place in what may end up being the final event in promotional history. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick things off with a small recap of UFC 295 before diving into the double header this weekend. Topics discussed include Paul Craig's chances at pulling off the upset over Brendan Allen, Chase Hooper being such a big betting favorite, the shocking lack of quality betting opportunities on the UFC card, and the wisdom of putting together one final Bellator favorite parlay that is sure to get busted. Tune in for episode 69 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

Court is officially in session! Mike Heck and Jed Meshew (plus a special guest) join co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee this week for the most important trial in MMA history. With UFC 295 in the rear-view, the gang hits the witness stand around (7:25) to settle once and for all whether Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall is the No. 1 heavyweight in the world. Then, the boys discuss how Alex Pereira has broken MMA — and Jed's brain — around (53:40), play another rollicking round of "What The F*** Are We Supposed To Do Next?" with the two heaviest and most confusing divisions in the sport around (1:11:50), and much, much more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Mike Heck @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Poatan fez história ao nocautear Jiri Prochazka e adicionar mais um cinturão do UFC ao seu legado, e o Trocação Franca repercute o feito na companhia de Glover Teixeira, seu fiel escudeiro, e o jornalista Renato Rebelo, do Sexto Round. O podcast traz ainda entrevistas com Amanda Ribas, Luana Pinheiro, Patricky Pitbull e Killys Mota, que lutam neste fim de semana no UFC e Bellator. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Alex Pereira made history by knocking out Jiri Prochazka and adding another UFC belt to his legacy, and Trocação Franca reacts to his incredible feat alongside his longtime friend Glover Teixeira and Brazilian journalist Renato Rebelo. The podcast also features interviews with Amanda Ribas, Luana Pinheiro, Patricky Pitbull, and Killys Mota ahead of this weekend’s UFC and Bellator events. 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

While the idea of a Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic had little buzz ahead of their scheduled matchup at UFC 295 before Jones was forced to withdraw due to injury, whatever buzz was there seems to be fully gone after Tom Aspinall's 69 second destruction of Sergei Pavlovich to win the interim heavyweight title on Saturday at Madison Square Garden. The MMA world now wants to see Jones vs. Aspinall, but will we ever get it? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Aspinall's performance, talks the likelihood of a Jones vs. Aspinall fight ever happening, and what Aspinall could likely do next. Additionally, listener questions include Alex Pereira's historic win at UFC 295 in the main event, his callout of Israel Adesanya, where Jamahal Hill fits in the light heavyweight title picture for the UFC, Leon Edwards aiming towards a middleweight title shot if he defeats Colby Covington at UFC 296, 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 a new episode reacting to the fallout from UFC 295 where two new champions were crowned. UFC welterweight Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin discuss Tom Aspinall’s stunning first-round knockout win over Sergei Pavlovich and what likely comes next for him. Is there a chance Aspinall will get to fight Jon Jones or should he just give up that idea already? We’ll also discuss Alex Pereira becoming a two-division UFC champion in just his 11th MMA fight but did referee Marc Goddard make a mistake with his stoppage in the main event? Jiri Prochazka isn’t complaining but did the referee cost him the chance to make a comeback? Plus, Brown offers some sage advice to Mackenzie Dern after her knockout loss to Jessica Andrade and if she’s already hit the ceiling in her career after a 2-3 run in her past five fights in the UFC. 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 new light heavyweight champion and interim heavyweight champion were crowned at the UFC's return to Madison Square Garden in New York City. Alex Pereira capped off the wild night with a second-round knockout of Jiri Prochazka to capture the light heavyweight championship. What's next for Pereira and Prochazka following the UFC 295 main event? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer those questions on a brand new live edition of On To the Next One. Additionally, future matchups will be discussed for new interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall after his stoppage victory, along with his opponent Sergei Pavlovich, Jessica Andrade after her finish of Mackenzie Dern, Benoit Saint-Denis following his vicious knockout of Matt Frevola, fellow main card finisher Diego Lopes, and more following Saturday's pay-per-view event. 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

UFC 295 will go down as one of the wildest UFC events of 2023 with a main card full of finishes — including championship victories for Alex Pereira and Tom Aspinall in the final two bouts, although the main event seemed to have ended with a bit of controversy. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Pereira's historic light heavyweight championship knockout victory over Jiri Prochazka in the main event, whether or not referee Marc Goddard made the correct call in stopping the fight, Pereira's callout of Israel Adesanya, and where Prochazka goes from here. Additionally, they discuss Aspinall's quick knockout win over Sergei Pavlovich to win the interim heavyweight title in the co-main event, who Aspinall could face next, Jessica Andrade, Benoit Saint-Denis, and Diego Lopes' main card finishes, and much more following a chaotic trip to Madison Square Garden. 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 295's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Timestamps: Steve Erceg vs. Alessandro Costa conclusion and decision (12:20) Diego Lopes vs. Pat Sabatini (34:55) Lopes stops Sabatini in Round 1 (36:40) Mike's prediction for Chronicles pack autographs (46:20) Matt Frevola vs. Benoit Saint-Danis (50:52) Saint-Denis knocks out Frevola in Round 1 (55:10) Ripping packs part 1 (59:55) Jessica Andrade vs. Mackenzie Dern (1:13:35) Andrade drops Dern in Round 1 (1:21:20) Andrade finishes Dern in Round 2 (1:24:55) Parker Porter joins the show (1:28:40) Ripping packs part 2 (1:36:20) Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall (1:45:42) Aspinall knocks out Pavlovich in Round 1 to win interim belt (1:49:19) Ripping packs part 3 (1:59:33) Mystic Mike nails the autograph prediction (2:02:28) Jiri Prochazka vs. Alex Pereira (2:10:30) Pereira stops Prochazka to win vacant title in Round 2 (2:24:20) Check out the original UFC 295 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vgMt4hKWkYQ 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

The UFC returns to Madison Square Garden on Saturday with for UFC 295, which features an expected wild main event for the vacant light heavyweight title between the returning former champ Jiri Prochazka and prior middleweight champion Alex Pereira, along with an interim heavyweight championship bout between surging contenders Sergei Pavlovich and Tom Aspinall. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee preview Saturday's pay-per-view event, the main event between Prochazka and Pereira, what a win would mean for both men, and how interesting the seemingly cursed division could get moving into 2024 depending on who leaves MSG with the gold. Additionally, they'll discuss the co-main event title fight, the short notice nature of it, if either Pavlovich or Aspinall could entice Jon Jones to stick around for a unification bout down the line, the rest of the lineup, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun 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

UFC 295 will take place at Madison Square Garden, a historic arena that has featured some of the biggest moments in combat sports, and memorable UFC events. While Saturday’s card is incredibly interesting for the hardcore MMA fan, the vibes for an MSG fight week don’t seem to be there compared to others. Where does UFC 295 rank on paper compared to the promotion’s other six events? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck discusses that topic and goes through the prior lineups for the UFC’s annual trip to The World’s Most Famous Arena. Additionally, topics include the UFC 297 lineup, possible underdog value from a betting perspective, the upcoming Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria title fight slated for UFC 298, 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 returns to Madison Square Garden this Saturday for UFC 295 with two world title fights — Jiri Prochazka vs. Alex Pereira for the vacant light heavyweight title, and Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall for the interim heavyweight title. With Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic no longer happening, how do these title fights, and the event as a whole, hold up on paper? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the Prochazka vs. Pereira main event, what could be next for the winner, and if Pereira wins, what does that mean for his combat sports legacy as a two-division champ in just his 11th pro fight, along with being a two-division Glory champ? Additionally, they'll discuss Pavlovich vs. Aspinall, where the heavyweight division goes, if one of the participants could interest Jones enough to stick around after an eventual fight with Miocic, Dana White announcing Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria, and Sean O'Malley vs. Marlon Vera 2 to headline the first three pay-per-views of 2024, Jailton Almeida's win over Derrick Lewis, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and The Sporting News' Andreas Hale. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Andreas Hale: @AndreasHale 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

Even with the loss of Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic, the UFC 295 title fights are incredibly fascinating with the returning Jiri Prochazka taking on former middleweight champ Alex Pereira, and Sergei Pavlovich and Tom Aspinall battling for the interim heavyweight title — both fights nearly pick 'ems from a betting perspective. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the top-two bouts ahead of this Saturday's UFC 295 event at Madison Square Garden, the intriguing and almost unpredictable nature of them, and Pereira's chance to become a first ballot UFC hall-of-famer in just his 11th pro MMA fight should he capture a second divisional title. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC 297 main event between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis, Tony Ferguson working with David Goggins ahead of his UFC 296 bout with Paddy Pimblett, 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

Ahead of UFC 295 on Saturday, Daniel Cormier sits down with MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin to preview the upcoming event where he’ll call the fights alongside Jon Anik and Joe Rogan. Cormier gives his thoughts on Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall potentially being an even more competitive fight that the previously scheduled matchup between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. Cormier also previews Alex Pereira going for his second UFC title while facing Jiri Prochazka in the main event. Cormier addresses Francis Ngannou’s recent performance against Tyson Fury while admitting his options to return to MMA are pretty limited right now. The former two-division UFC champion also addresses his work on the broadcast team and the recent addition of Laura Sanko to the rotation. All this and more with UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier ahead of UFC 295. 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 No Bets Barred boys are back this week with a full breakdown of UFC 295 and the promotion's return to Madison Square Garden with two vacant title fights. In the co-main event, Sergei Pavlovich takes on Tom Aspinall for the interim heavyweight title and then in the main event, former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka looks to reclaim the belt he never lost when he faces former middleweight champion Alex Pereira. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick things off with a small celebration for a major milestone before jumping into UFC 295 and all 13 fights set to take place in New York City. Topics include figuring out who exactly will get the W in the marquee fights, what should we make of Jessica Andrade's terrible 2023, and a minor flirtation with an old reliable. Tune in for episode 68 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

Less than 18 months after taking Valentina Shevchenko to the limit in her only opportunity at UFC gold, Taila Santos is no longer on the UFC roster. While the news seems to be surprising to the MMA community, is Santos exiting the promotion actually a good thing for the 30-year-old fighter? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the news of Santos' release, and makes the case that Santos continuing her career elsewhere may be the best thing for her at this time. Additionally, listener questions include Dana White's three title fights he announced on Monday, including the UFC 297 main event between Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title, if Sean O'Malley has the most to gain of all the six championship competitors from a star-power perspective, Islam Makhachev getting ranked No. 1 on the UFC's pound-for-pound list, 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

Ahead of UFC 295 on Saturday, former UFC light heavyweight champion Jamahal Hill gives an update on his recovery and timeline to return to action after the suffered a torn Achilles’ tendon that forced him to relinquish his belt while recovering. Hill will detail his rehabilitation as well as compare his injury to New York Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who also suffered a torn Achilles with both athletes undergoing surgery from the same doctor. Hill also breaks down the upcoming title fight between Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira, which will crown a new light heavyweight champion in his absence while also revealing his plans to return and face the winner. 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 Fighter vs. The Writer returns with UFC legend Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin previewing the upcoming UFC 295 card including the two title fights at the top of the lineup. Jiri Prochazka will attempt to recapture the belt he never actually lost when he clashes with Alex Pereira in the main event. Prochazka returns after suffering a devastating shoulder injury that kept him out of action for over a year but he anxiously awaits the chance to reclaim that belt. But will Prochazka’s creativity and willingness to put himself in harm’s way help him win at UFC 295 or could that style come back to haunt him, especially while facing a lethal striker like Pereira? We’ll also look ahead at the interim heavyweight title fight as Sergei Pavlovich looks to extend his six-fight winning streak when he takes on Tom Aspinall. Pavlovich hasn’t seen a second round in any of his recent wins while demolishing every opponent he’s faced by knockout but does Aspinall serve as the perfect fighter to counter his devastating power? Plus we react to the news announced by UFC CEO Dana White on Monday with Sean Strickland vs. Dricus du Plessis scheduled at UFC 297, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria at UFC 298 and Sean O’Malley vs. Marlon “Chito” Vera at UFC 299. 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

O UFC finalmente voltou a São Paulo — e sete dias depois já tem Alex Poatan disputando cinturão em Nova York. O Trocação Franca repercute o que rolou na Terra da Garoa na companhia do jornalista Laerte Viana, e traz entrevistas exclusivas com alguns destaques do UFC 295: Alex Poatan, Jessica Bate Estaca, Diego Lopes e Tabatha Ricci. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The UFC finally returned to Sao Paulo — and now Alex Pereira is fighting for a belt seven days later in New York. Trocação Franca dissects what went down in Brazil with MMA reporter Laerte Viana, and features exclusive interviews with UFC 295 stars Alex Poatan, Jessica Andrade, Diego Lopes, and Tabatha Ricci. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz: @Guicruzzz Subscribe 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 quarter of 2024 already has four UFC title fights on the books with Dana White making a blockbuster announcement on Monday afternoon. MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Steven Marrocco react to the UFC CEO announcing that Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis for the middleweight title will headline UFC 297 on Jan. 20 in Toronto, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria for the featherweight championship will serve as the UFC 298 main event in February, and Sean O’Malley vs. Marlon Vera 2 will take place at UFC 299 in March for the 135-pound title. Both UFC 298 and UFC 299 do not have a date, location, or venue announced at this time. Additionally, the panel ranks the three new title fights in order of intrigue and interest, what the announcement could mean for UFC 300, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Steven Marrocco: @MMAFightingSM 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 play-by-play voice Jon Anik joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview Saturday's UFC 295 card, talks Jon Jones' withdrawal, Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall for the interim heavyweight title, Jiri Prochazka vs. Alex Pereira getting promoted to the main event, Francis Ngannou's future after his fight with Tyson Fury, Islam Makhachev and Khamzat Chimaev's wins at UFC 294, 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

UFC welterweight Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview his UFC 296 matchup with Shavkat Rakhmonov, talks he and the UFC working out an agreement financially following his UFC 291 fight cancellation with Michel Pereira, Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington, Kamaru Usman's performance against Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 294, 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

Jailton Almeida controlled and dominated Derrick Lewis for nearly the entire UFC Sao Paulo main event, and as impressive as a feat as that is, the performance still left people with questions about his ceiling in the heavyweight division. Where does Almeida go from here in order to answer those questions? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to predict who Almeida could face next following his unanimous decision win over Lewis in Saturday's headliner. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Nicolas Dalby after his gritty comeback stoppage win over Gabriel Bonfim in the co-main event, Rodrigo Nascimento following his second victory against Don'Tale Mayes, Caio Barralho after improving to 5-0 in the UFC with his win over Abus Magomedov, along with Rookie of the Year contender Elves Brener, 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

Jailton Almeida dominated Derrick Lewis over 25 minutes in the main event of Saturday's UFC Sao Paulo card, yet, a lot of people seem to have left the event with far more questions than answers, and found Almeida's performance as somewhat of a letdown. What grade does Almeida deserve for his second straight main event win? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Eric "New York Ric" Jackman react to Almeida's sweep of the scorecards against Lewis, if the surging heavyweight gained anything with the win, if the community actually learned more about Lewis in the loss than Almeida in the win, and where Almeida goes next. Additionally, they discuss Nicolas Dalby's gritty comeback stoppage win against Gabriel Bonfim as the biggest underdog on the main card, Elves Brener's sensational knockout, Angela Hill continuing to pick up victories and her importance to the UFC roster, 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

Dustin Poirier joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss getting the call to possibly step in to face Islam Makhachev on short notice at UFC 294, finding out Alexander Volkanovski got the title shot, how the UFC 294 main event played out, when he hopes to return, UFC 300 being enticing, Francis Ngannou's performance against Tyson Fury, attending this year's Mr. Olympia event, partnering up with Celcius, their new Essentials line, 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

Jailton Almeida has been unstoppable since making his debut in the UFC, and as the surging heavyweight contender looks to take another step forward towards a title shot, a powerful veteran in Derrick Lewis aims to play spoiler in the main event of UFC Sao Paulo. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee preview Saturday's headliner between Almeida and Lewis, what Almeida could gain from a victory, if a Lewis win could shake up the entire division, and more. Additionally, they discuss other interesting matchups on the card, the Ismael Bonfim vs. Vinc Pichel, and Victor Hugo vs. Daniel Marcos bouts being cancelled after Bonfim and Hugo missed weight, the ceiling on Rinat Fakhretdinov at 170 pounds, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs 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

Jon Jones was supposed to headline UFC 295 next Saturday before tearing his pectoral muscle, thus delaying his matchup with decorated former heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic until sometime in 2024. While it seemed like the Miocic matchup could be the final one for Jones, does the delay change things at all? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Jones' future, and makes the case that "Bones" could stick around after the Miocic fight. Additionally, listener questions include favorite fights of all-time, why a Jones vs. Francis Ngannou fight will never happen, the UFC's monster financials for the first half of 2024, leaked payouts for the likes of Conor McGregor, Ronda Rousey, and more due to the ongoing anti-trust lawsuit, 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

Francis Ngannou shocked the combat sports world by taking lineal boxing heavyweight champion Tyson Fury to the limit this past Saturday in Saudi Arabia, a performance that has opened so many lucrative doors for the former UFC world champion. With so many options in play, what is the most interesting move for Ngannou moving forward? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses Ngannou's performance, whether his next fight should be in boxing or MMA, and if a fight with Jon Jones could ever happen despite being the biggest fight the UFC could take part in at the moment. Additionally, topics include UFC Sao Paulo, the main event between Jailton Almeida and Derrick Lewis and the stakes attached, Lewis' recent arrest ahead of the bout, Khamzat Chimaev's injury update and what that could mean for Sean Strickland, UFC Austin getting two big five-round lightweight bouts, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun 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

Sean O'Malley has expressed interest in crossing over to the boxing world since capturing the UFC bantamweight title, and other big named boxers have reciprocated that interest in wanting to welcome him to the sport. While "Sugar" isn't there quite yet, could a win in his first title defense get him over the hump? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer that question, and gives his thoughts about how close O'Malley could be to getting his big money opportunity. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC anti-trust case and the promotion's appeal getting denied, Francis Ngannou's next move, how the PFL needs to capitalize on Ngannou's performance against Tyson Fury, promotional rankings, 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

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history and on this episode it celebrates the career of Wanderlei Silva, the most intimidating fighter to ever compete in MMA. 22 years ago this Friday, Wanderlei Silva made history, becoming the inaugural Pride Middleweight Champion after beating Kazushi Sakuraba for the second time at Pride 17. That win cemented "The Ax Murderer" as not just one of the best fighters in the world, but one of the scariest, and for the next four years, the MMA world would see him do nothing but reinforce that image. Whether he was annihilating cans or kneeing Quinton Jackson through the ropes, for half a decade, Wanderlei was appointment viewing, and his willingness to test himself against anyone, including guys like Mirko Cro Cop and Mark Hunt, solidified him as an all time fan favorite. What were the most iconic performances, what were our favorite memories, and what did we miss out on over Silva's 23 year run? Listen in as the MMA Fighting crews remembers the career of the original King of Violence. Follow Guilherme Cruz: @guicruzzz 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 No Bets Barred boys are back this week with a full breakdown of UFC Sao Paulo and the main event matchup between Jailton Almeida and Derrick Lewis. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew kick things off with a discussion Francis Ngannou's surprise performance against Tyson Fury before diving into the betting breakdowns this week. Topics discussed include whether Lewis has a chance at pulling off the upset or if Jailton is simply too good, whether Nicolas Dalby can remain "The Brazilian Slayer," and just what are the chances of pulling of one big Brazilian parlay? Tune in for episode 67 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

Agora o bicho vai pegar: o UFC desembarca em São Paulo pela primeira vez em quase quatro anos, e o Trocação Franca destrincha o card com a ajuda de Román Laurito, comentarista de MMA na Band, faixa-preta de jiu-jitsu e baixista da banda Tihuana. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Jailton Malhadinho, Vitor Petrino, Ismael Bonfim, Eduarda Ronda, Elves Brener, Kaue Fernandes e Fabrício Andrade. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The UFC finally returns to São Paulo four years after its last show in the city, and Trocação Franca breaks down the card with UFC color commentator and Tihuana rock star Román Laurito. This week’s podcast also features interviews with Jailton Almeida, Vitor Petrino, Ismael Bonfim, Eduarda Moura, Elves Brener, Kaue Fernandes, and Fabricio Andrade. 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

Francis Ngannou's combat sports career took another incredible turn on Saturday when he arguably beat the lineal heavyweight boxing champion Tyson Fury in a 10-round boxing match in Saudi Arabia — even dropping Fury in the third round. Despite not getting the victory on the cards, Ngannou is the fight's big winner in other ways. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Ngannou's performance against Fury, how Ngannou the boxer is far more intriguing than Ngannou the MMA fighter, and how the only MMA opponent that makes any sense is the fight with current UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones. Additionally, listener topics include potential boxing options for Ngannou moving forward, the "fumbled the bag" critics being humbled, if the UFC lost in the long run with Saturday's result, 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

This week on The Fighter vs. The Writer, UFC welterweight Matt Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin react to the shocking result in the boxing match between Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury. Despite entering the fight as a massive underdog, Ngannou scored the only knockdown after the planted Fury on the ground with a huge left hand in the third round. In the end, Ngannou lost a razor-close split decision that many believe should have gone his way. Brown erupts when addressing Fury’s performance after he was touted as one of the best heavyweights in recent boxing history while proclaiming that the entire division “sucks” right now after Ngannou exposed them. Plus we’ll address what should come next for Ngannou after such a stunning performance — should he go back to boxing for another fight or make his return to MMA for his debut in the PFL? We’ll also talk about Jon Jones dropping out of his scheduled fight against Stipe Miocic at UFC 295 and Brown details the difference between courage and stupidity when setting foot in the cage for a fight. 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

With the UFC having a rare Saturday night without a fight card, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee didn't want to leave the listeners hanging, so they decided to turn the programming over to them. On a special "Ask Us Anything" edition of On To the Next One, Mike and AK reunite to answer listener questions, with topics including whether or not Khamzat Chimaev is being judged by the MMA community on a more difficult scale than maybe any other fighter in UFC history. Additionally, questions include building a fantasy RIZIN New Year's Eve card, if 2023 could surpass 2016 as the craziest year in MMA, the best seats to watch a UFC event in an arena, what sport would they cover outside of MMA if asked, the fight that they like that most dislike, and the other way around, the MMA fighter elevator test, 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

Francis Ngannou may not have gotten the official victory against Tyson Fury on the scorecards, but he sure feels like Saturday's biggest winner after defying the odds and taking the lineal boxing heavyweight champion to his absolute limit. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee react to Fury edging out a heavily debated split decision over the former UFC heavyweight champion, discuss whether or not Ngannou was robbed by two of the judges, why it doesn't ultimately matter whether he was or not, if Ngannou's next fight will be in the boxing ring, if he'll return to MMA at all, how "The Predator" has been able to silence his many critics — including UFC CEO Dana White — if the targeted Fury vs. Usyk fight is more or less interesting, and so much more following the Battle of the Baddest fight card. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun 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

Tyson Fury is the massive favorite to defeat former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou in their 10-round boxing match this Saturday in Saudi Arabia. While the outcome may seem predictable, what if Ngannou actually does defeat Fury? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew discuss Saturday's main event bout, the interest levels in it, along with the fight week build seemingly falling short. Additionally, they discuss what could've been done differently to generate more interest, a potential world where Ngannou pulls off one of the all-time biggest upsets ever, how it could shake up the combat sports world as we know it, if Ngannou's stock can drop in any way with a loss, 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

While the UFC is on a rare off week, the promotion has certainly had its share of headlines following UFC 294 between Islam Makhachev's knockout win over Alexander Volkanovski, the questions surrounding the middleweight division after Khamzat Chimaev's win over Kamaru Usman, as well as the UFC 295 shakeups due to Jon Jones' injury. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes questions about the chaotic week for the UFC, Jones' fight with Stipe Miocic being scrapped and replaced by Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall for the interim heavyweight title, how big of a hit to the card losing Jones vs. Miocic could be, and comparing UFC 295 to other Madison Square Garden fight cards. Additionally, listener topics include Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou, if Ngannou can be competitive, what could headline the UFC's Dec. 2 event in Austin and the promotion's expected return to China the following week, along with a slew of Free-For-All Friday questions from outside the world of MMA. 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

Islam Makhachev made a strong case for being the world's best pound-for-pound fighter after he demolished Alexander Volkanovski in the main event of UFC 294 this past Saturday. What is the biggest Makhachev question moving forward after getting closure against Volkanovski? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel recaps Makhachev's sensational performance to retain the UFC lightweight title, if Charles Oliveira or Justin Gaethje should be next, and how far he can go from a legacy perspective. Additionally, topics include Khamzat Chimaev's majority decision win over Kamaru Usman and the big takeaways from both fighters, Jon Jones suffering an injury scratching his UFC 295 heavyweight championship main event with Stipe Miocic, Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall fighting for the interim heavyweight title, if the one-two punch is more interesting than the original, Saturday's Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou boxing match and the interest levels surrounding it, and much more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe 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

Jon Jones' injury led to Dana White's shocking annoucement this week that Jones will no longer fight Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 295, but now Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall will fight for the interim heavyweight title in the co-main event. Is it the more intriguing matchup than the original, and should it be for the actual title instead of the interim belt? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the UFC 295 shakeup, why Pavlovich vs. Aspinall is the more competitive fight, but also the hit the card takes not having Jones and Miocic fighting any longer, along with a positive way to look at the championship situation surrounding the fight. Additionally, topics include what a title in at UFC 295 does for Alex Pereira's legacy, Islam Makhachev knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 294, Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou, 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