MMA Fighting

It sounds like the people have decided: Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold at BKFC 42 is the fight of the weekend. The UFC veterans have engaged in some truly hilarious shenanigans in the lead-up to their bare-knuckle battle and all that’s left to see is if this freak show fight turns out as freaky as advertised. That’s a fitting discussion for this Free-For-All-Friday edition of Heck of a Morning with guest host Alexander K. Lee, who answers questions not only about BKFC 42 and UFC Vegas 72, but a slew of random topics including how the remainder of the NBA Playoffs is likely to play out (and who you’ll see in the Finals), adventures in vegetarian cooking, and the brilliance of Paul Thomas Anderson, as well as fighting business like whether a Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad stinker will remove both men from the UFC welterweight title picture, what pair of friends do we wish we’d seen meet inside the cage, 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 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

Nate Diaz made headlines yet again this weekend when the Stockton native found himself in a Bourbon Street Brawl that resulted in one would-be influencer getting choked out in the streets. Mike Heck is off this week so Jed Meshew steps in to host an all-new edition of Between the Links, where the panel discusses Nate Diaz’s street fighting and pending arrest, plus, does this put Nate’s fight with Jake Paul in jeopardy? Additionally, the crew debates Sergei Pavlovich’s big win at UFC Vegas 71, Patchy Mix’s place in the bantamweight hierarchy, Gervonta Davis' big win over Ryan Garcia, and the weekend ahead with BKFC 41 and UFC Vegas 72, and more. Guest host Jed Meshew moderates the matchup between MMAFighting’s José Youngs and Morning Kombat’s Brian Campbell. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell 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 biggest fight this weekend might not be happening inside the octagon. With respect to UFC Vegas 72 headliners Song Yadong and Ricky Simon, the BKFC is presenting a buzzworthy main event of its own pitting Mike Perry against Luke Rockhold on Saturday. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee looks ahead at a busy combat sports weekend that includes the UFC, the BKFC, Cage Warriors, RIZIN, and more. Additionally, topics include what is the one main event you must watch on Saturday, why the UFC is putting Dricus Du Plessis' title shot at risk in a matchup with Robert Whittaker, breaking UFC Vegas 72 down in the most positive light possible, the BKFC 42 co-main event between Chad Mendes and Eddie Alvarez, the meteoric rise of Salt Papi, whether Rose Namajunas and Israel Adesanya make for the more compelling title chaser, 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 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

Deiveson Figueiredo mudou os planos, mas nem tudo saiu como ele esperava. Se antes subiria de categoria, agora fica nos moscas, mas não poderá enfrentar Manel Kape no dia 8 de julho. O podcast Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe o “Deus da Guerra” para entender melhor essa história, e entrevista a dupla Rodolfo Vieira e Marcos Pezão antes de suas lutas nesse sábado, pelo UFC Vegas 72. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Deiveson Figueiredo's plans have changed — but not everything went as expected. Figueiredo was moving up to bantamweight, and then he was not, and now he can’t even fight Manel Kape on July 8. Trocação Franca welcomes Figueiredo to understand the situation, and also chats with Rodolfo Vieira and Marcos Rogerio de Lima ahead of Saturday’s UFC Vegas 72 card. 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

The UFC keeps right on rolling this Saturday with another return to the Apex, headlined by a bantamweight prospect matchup between Song Yadong and Ricky Simon, so the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down their best bets. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show by recapping UFC Vegas 71 as both guys are starting to build a little momentum after a tough start to the year. Then it's right into UFC Vegas 72 talk with Conner keeping things tight this weekend, while Jed has a whole pile of gimmick bets including ChatGPT's first ever underdog play, plus a Cheaters Always Win parlay. Tune in for Episode 43 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

We’re coming off a mega busy combat sports weekend with UFC, Bellator, boxing and yes, influencer boxing galore. Sergei Pavlovich continued his run to a heavyweight title shot, Patchy Mix confirmed that he’s one of the best in the world at 135 pounds, Gervonta Davis won his highly anticipated match with Ryan Garcia, and Nate Diaz got into all kinds of trouble. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee reacts to the main event of UFC Vegas 71 and what could be next for Curtis Blaydes after falling short in another big opportunity. Additionally, topics include whether Garcia quit against Davis, if Blaydes has hit the end of the road in the UFC, the most disappointing what-could-have-been careers, whether the UFC should be rooting for Aljamain Sterling or Henry Cejudo to win the UFC 288 main event, the possibility of Bellator putting together grand prix tournaments for its flyweight and featherweight women, what’s the most exciting BKFC matchup this weekend, and more. Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the 2023 NFL Draft set to take place this week, it's once again time for the MMA Fighting team to don the hats of the premier combat sports promotions in the world and select the 35 fighters they would most want to have on roster to build a promotion around. Listen as Jed Meshew guides the action and the staff drafts seven fighters to their respective organizations: The UFC, Bellator, PFL, ONE Championship, and BKFC. Other promoters include Shaun Al-Shatti, Mike Heck, Damon Martin, and Alexander K. Lee. Who will be the first overall pick? And which drafter is best set up for the next five years? Tune in to find out. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ahead of perhaps the biggest BKFC card in history, The Fighter vs. The Writer will be headlined by three of the fighters competing on Saturday including both main event athletes as Luke Rockhold and Mike Perry join the show. Rockhold will fight for the first time since retiring but then securing his UFC release so he could pursue a career outside the octagon. He will now compete in bare-knuckle for the first time ever while taking on a BKFC veteran in Perry. Rockhold will address his decision to return to action while also discussing his issues with the UFC and hopes that more athletes will stand up for themselves when it comes to money and opportunities. Perry also joins the show to talk about the fight with Rockhold and his expectations clashing with a former UFC champion who has never fought bare-knuckle previously. Perry will also react to the recent news that Nate Diaz will fight Jake Paul in a boxing match as well as Diaz’s wild weekend filled with street fights in New Orleans. Finally, Mendes joins the show to preview his fight with Eddie Alvarez and he’ll address if this will possibly be the final bout of his entire career. Mendes explains why he decided to come back in the first place and the conflicted feelings he’s had about continuing on past the matchup against Alvarez. 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

Sergei Pavlovich destroyed Curtis Blaydes in the first round of their heavyweight main event battle in Las Vegas this past Saturday, which led to Pavlovich calling for a title shot against Jon Jones. While the fight could be interesting, it's unlikely to happen, but that doesn't mean Pavlovich can't get a title fight in his next appearance. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what could be next for Pavlovich following his massive win at UFC Vegas 71, and explain why he probably won't be facing Jones anytime soon. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Bruno Silva following his first-round finish of Brad Tavares in the middleweight co-main event, along with fellow winners Iasmin Lucindo, Jeremiah Wells, Montel Jackson, and more following the promotion's latest card at the APEX. 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

The MMA Fighting crew gets you set for Saturday's UFC Vegas 71 event, which will be headlined by Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich, along with Bellator 295, which will be capped off by the outstanding bantamweight grand prix finale between Raufeon Stots and Patchy Mix. 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

The mystery behind a new UFC 288 co-main event was finally solved on Thursday night when UFC President Dana White revealed that Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad will take that spot on the May 6 pay-per-view in a five-round welterweight matchup. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the bout being set for the UFC's return to Newark, N.J., and what the stakes are for both men in the matchup. Additionally, topics include Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush officially moving to the co-main event spot of UFC 289 in June, other main event announcements from White on Thursday, the UFC sticking around the APEX for a bunch of cards over the next couple of months, Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia, what could be next for Shavkat Rakhmonov, a potential Israel Adesanya vs. Dricus Du Plessis fight, 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

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Eric Jackman, and Damon Martain join forces to preview the highly-anticipated boxing match between Gervonta 'Tank' Davis and 'King' Ryan Garcia. Will Davis' experience be enough to halt the hype train of Garcia? Can Garcia's speed neutralize Davis' much-vaunted knockout power? Who will become the face of boxing when it's all said and done? These are just some of the questions the three will answer for you ahead of the catchweight fight inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Eric Jackman: @NewYorkRic Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With so much going on in the combat sports world this weekend, as well as this past weekend with UFC Kansas City, the MMA Fighting crew decided to turn the programming of the show to you, the live viewers for a special Q&A edition of Between the Links. This week, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and José Youngs take your questions about Max Holloway's big win over Arnold Allen, this Saturday's UFC Vegas 71 event headlined by Curtis Blaydes vs. Sergei Pavlovich and what the stakes could be, Bellator's doubleheader this weekend with Bellator 294 headlined by Liz Carmouche vs. DeAnna Bennett 2 on Friday, and Bellator 295 headlined by the bantamweight grand prix finale between Raufeon Stots and Patchy Mix on Saturday, Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia this Saturday in Las Vegas, 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

Since Francis Ngannou parted ways with the UFC, everybody has been wondering what his next move will be — will he scratch that itch to box against a big name, or will he immediately continue with his MMA journey? That question remains just as difficult to answer months later. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Ngannou's free agency, if he'll box next, and if an eventual return to the UFC is possible. Additionally, listener topics include what the new UFC 288 co-main event could end up being, the UFC Vegas 71 main event between Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich, the UFC's flyweight division, Gervonta Davis vs. Ryan Garcia, Muhammad Mokaev's social media misfire calling out Brandon Royval, Cris Cyborg's MMA future, Amanda Nunes vs. Julianna Peña 3, 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 UFC keeps right on rolling this Saturday with a return to the Apex, headlined by a probable heavyweight title eliminator between Sergei Pavlovich and Curtis Blaydes, so the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down their best bets. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show by recapping UFC Kansas City before diving into their bets for UFC Vegas 71. Conor spreads his bets out this week, with a number of singles and a few parlays, while Jed continues to enjoy the chaos of Heavyweight Overs, plus the ChatGPT Bet of the Week. Then, before closing shop, the boys also take a shallow dive into this weekend's Bellator double header, including a Wolfpack Wager, and a few plays on the highly anticipated Tank Davis vs. Ryan Garcia boxing match. Tune in for Episode 42 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

With Charles Oliveira being scratched from his matchup with Beneil Dariush at UFC 288, is it too risky for the UFC to push that matchup back to UFC 289 on June 10 with Oliveira's injury, or should they pivot to a new fight between Dariush and Dustin Poirier instead? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck makes the case as to why the UFC should do whatever they can do have Poirier step in to face Dariush in June, and how this division is looking right now with plans to have Islam Makahchev defend his title in October. Additionally, listener topics include Max Holloway's win over Arnold Allen in the main event of UFC Kansas City, the stakes in Saturday's UFC Vegas 71 main event between Curtis Blaydes and Sergei Pavlovich, Song Yadong vs. Ricky Simon being moved to the UFC Vegas 72 headliner, the UFC 290 fight card as it stands, 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

O Trocação Franca dessa semana traz entrevistas exclusivas com o passado, presente e futuro. O ex-campeão do UFC e lenda do MMA José Aldo fala da nova carreira no boxe e o desentendimento com Conor McGregor. Rafaela Silva, campeã olímpica de judô na Rio 2016, fala da curta experiência treinando MMA. E Alexandre Pantoja analisa o confronto com Brandon Moreno pelo cinturão dos moscas do UFC, marcado para julho. Trocação Franca brings past, present, and future on this week’s episode. Former UFC champion and MMA legend Jose Aldo discusses his boxing career and the recent beef with Conor McGregor, Olympic gold medalist Rafaela Silva opens up on her experience training MMA, and flyweight contender Alexandre Pantoja breaks down his upcoming clash with UFC champion Brandon Moreno in Las Vegas. 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with Matt Brown and Damon Martin discussing Max Holloway’s big win over Arnold Allen and what that means for his future at featherweight. Holloway earned a decision win to get back on track after falling to UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski in his previous outing. We’ll also talk about the news that the UFC wants to book Jon Jones against Stipe Miocic at Madison Square Garden in New York, presumably in November. If that fight gets finalized, does Miocic immediately become the biggest threat to Jones at heavyweight or is there still someone even better suited to hand Jones a defeat? We’ll also discuss the new fight announced between Jake Paul and Nate Diaz. Is Diaz biting off more than he can chew by taking on a fighter who will have a significant size advantage not to mention Paul’s experience in the boxing ring? 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

Max Holloway stifled Arnold Allen's attempt to earn a title shot in the loaded UFC featherweight division in the main event of UFC Kansas City this past Saturday. The former champion was able to get back on track and called out another veteran for a showdown in the near future, but is a matchup between Holloway and The Korean Zombie the way to go, or is there a better option for "Blessed"? 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. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Edson Barboza following his vicious knockout of Billy Quarantillo in the co-main event, Pedro Munhoz after his veteran-savvy performance against Chris Gutierrez, along with fellow main card winners Azamat Murzakanov, Ion Cutelaba, Rafa Garcia, 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

Max Holloway and Arnold Allen put on a highly competitive five-round main event to cap off Saturday's UFC Kansas City event, but in the end, it was the former champion who was able to outlast the surging contender to get back on track. Following the UFC's return to Missouri, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee react to Holloway's unanimous decision win over a game Allen, the scoring of the 25-minute battle, and where Holloway goes from here at 145-pounds. Additionally, they discuss Edson Barboza's incredible knockout of Billy Quarantillo in the co-main event, experience continuing to play a major factor in main card matchups, Brandon Royval's quick finish of Matheus Nicolau and if that puts him in a position to fight the winner of Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja for the flyweight title next, Zak Cummings and Ed Herman's dual retirement, Clay Guida's fake retirement, and more. 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

Max Holloway and Arnold Allen are set to do battle in a pivotal main event matchup in the UFC featherweight division. The stakes are incredibly high for Allen, and as the betting underdog, will he be able to get over one last hump en route to a title shot? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee discuss Saturday's UFC Kansas City event, and are scheduled to be joined by UFC featherweight Calvin Kattar as he gives his insight to the Holloway vs. Allen matchup. Additionally, topics will include the Edson Barboza vs. Billy Quarantillo fight, the Matheus Nicolau vs. Brandon Royval flyweight bout being buried on the prelims, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti 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

Max Holloway returns this Saturday in a pivotal featherweight main event against Arnold Allen at UFC Kansas City. With "Blessed" already suffering three losses to current champ Alexander Volkanovski, what does a win do for his place at 145? And on the other end, what if he is not victorious this weekend? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes for Holloway in the scheduled five-round contest with Allen. Additionally, listener questions include the current UFC 290 lineup, if the UFC should add another title fight to the International Fight Week card, the cancelled UFC Vegas 72 main event between Arman Tsarukyan and Renato Moicano, options for Bryce Mitchell at UFC 288 with Jonathan Pearce being forced to withdraw from the May pay-per-view card, a potential Israel Adesanya vs. Dricus Du Plessis fight, the NBA playoffs, 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

UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards speaks to Damon Martin about his win over Kamaru Usman, Jorge Masvidal retiring and his regrets that fight never happened. He'll also address his timeline to return to action while responding to Colby Covington, who recently claimed that Edwards would be stripped of his title if they don't fight next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya brutally knocked out Alex Pereira in the main event of UFC 287 this past Saturday, and while many believe a third UFC fight between the two should happen next, Pereira has changed the narrative a bit. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Adesanya's incredible highlight against his longtime rival, Pereira moving up to 205, and what's next for the once again champion. Additionally, they'll discuss fallout of the rest of the UFC 287 card, Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz set for the boxing ring in Dallas on Aug. 5 and what the interest levels seem to be, Saturday's UFC Kansas City card — most notably the main event between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen, and the stakes for both men in the highly anticipated featherweight bout — 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

Alex Pereira is moving on from his rivalry with Israel Adesanya — at least, for now — following his UFC 287 loss as he's made the decision to make the jump up to the UFC's light heavyweight division. What does it all mean, and have we overlooked a key piece of this equation when it comes to this situation? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Pereira's announcement that he's moving to 205, and if he could find his way into a light heavyweight title fight with Jamahal Hill immediately if Jiri Prochazka is not ready to return to action in quick order. Additionally, topics include what could be next for Adesanya at middleweight, if the UFC should go right to Adesanya vs. Khamzat Chimaev, where Dricus Du Plessis fits in this discussion, Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja heading to UFC 290 in July for the flyweight title, the UFC Kansas City main event between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen, 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

On Wednesday, news broke that Nate Diaz and Jake Paul will finally settle their longstanding feud when the pair meet in a 185-pound boxing match on August 5, at the American Airlines Center in Dallas, Tex. Co-promoted by Diaz's Real Fight, Inc. and Paul's Most Valuable Promotions, the bout will air live on DAZN Pay-Per-View and features as $60.00 price tag. Was this the right step for Diaz and Paul? Who will win? What comes next? And most importantly, just how well will this do from a financial perspective? MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew, Steven Marrocco, and Damon Martin react to all this and more as we all start to prepare for what is likely to be the biggest event of the summer. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Steven Marrocco @MMAFightingSM Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With the UFC headed to Kansas City this week, the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down their favorite bets for Max Holloway vs. Arnold Allen, and the rest of the fight card. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show by recapping the madness that was UFC 287, and Israel Adesanya's remarkable title victory, before Connor makes a tragic announcement about his gambling future. Then the fellas dive into UFC Kansas City, which Jed will be in attendance for, taking A LOT of shots on underdogs this weekend, plus the return of Flyweight Unders and the hottest new thing in MMA betting: the ChatGPT Bet of the Week. Tune in for Episode 41 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

With Israel Adesanya finally holding a win over Alex Pereira, what's next for the middleweight division? Mike Heck and Jed Meshew join co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee following another wild weekend at UFC 287 to debate where Pereira falls in the new-look middleweight pecking order around (4:30) and rank the top 5 options for Adesanya's next fight around (18:07), as well as nail down the top 3 career highlights for Jorge Masvidal around (53:20). Then, the gang says hello to a few new faces around (1:09:15) and pours one out for the names we lost this rankings cycle around (1:15:20). 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 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