MMA Fighting

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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