MMA Fighting

Dustin Poirier and Michael Chandler will finally settle their score at UFC 281 on Nov. 12 at Madison Square Garden. With a new lightweight champion in Islam Makhachev, what kind of impact will this fight have on the division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes in that highly anticipated matchup in New York, along with the back-and-forth between Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski in setting up their potential champ vs. champ matchup. Additionally, listener questions include the Bellator vs. RIZIN event on Dec. 31, Saturday's UFC Vegas 64 main event between Marina Rodriguez and Amanda Lemos, other standout fights on the card, 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

Jake Paul defeated Anderson Silva on Saturday to remain undefeated in the boxing ring, and proved a lot of doubters wrong in the process. Heading into the bout, a lot of people felt like a massive fight would be Paul vs. Nate Diaz, but coming out of it, is the interest level in that fight as high as it was? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Paul's win over the former UFC middleweight champion, if a fight with Diaz is still interesting, and where Paul should go from here. Additionally, topics include the state of the UFC featherweight division following Arnold Allen's injury TKO win over Calvin Kattar at UFC Vegas 63, and if Allen has earned himself an interim title shot, along with this Saturday's UFC Vegas 64 event headlined by Marina Rodriguez vs. Amanda Lemos, reaction to the full UFC 281 lineup — which takes place next weekend at Madison Square Garden — and more. Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Damon Martin. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya will look to add longtime rival Alex Pereira's name to his championship resumé at next weekend's UFC 281 event at Madison Square Garden. If "The Last Stylebender" is victorious against Pereira, what would be next for him considering he's beat most of the top guys in the division — some twice. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on what could be next for Adesanya with a successful title defense in New York, and if he would consider moving to 205 quicker than most would've anticipated. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC lightweight division, most intriguing UFC 281 preliminary fight, Arnold Allen wanting an interim title shot following his win over Calvin Kattar and why a fight between Allen and Max Holloway is a bad idea, 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

With UFC 281 right around the corner, the UFC is back this weekend with another Fight Night event at the Apex to whet out appetites, UFC Vegas 64, and as always, the No Bets Barred boys are here to cover all the betting angles on the card. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew lament Jake Paul's win over Anderson Silva and their own poor performances at UFC Vegas 63. Then they get into breaking down this Saturday's card which, despite its lackluster nature, still ends up fielding nearly a dozen bets each from Conner and Jed, including multiple Flyweight Unders! Tune in for Episode 23 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

Anderson Silva perdeu para o YouTuber Jake Paul nas regras do boxe, com direito a knockdown no último assalto, em uma performance decepcionante. O Trocação Franca disseca o que rolou no duelo com a presença do jornalista Coutinho, do Canal Encarada, e ainda debate Marina Rodriguez x Amanda Lemos, a importância de uma vitória de Alex Poatan para o futuro do UFC em 2023, e o atual card do UFC Rio. O podcast entrevista, ainda, o campeão Deiveson Figueiredo e a dupla que lidera o UFC deste sábado, Marina e Amanda. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Anderson Silva lost to YouTuber Jake Paul in a boxing match, getting knocked down in the final round after a disappointing performance. Trocação Franca discusses everything that happened inside the ring with the assistance of Canal Encarada’s Coutinho, plus we talk Marina Rodriguez vs. Amanda Lemos, how crucial it is for Brazil that Alex Pereira beats Israel Adesanya, and the current UFC 283 lineup. The podcast also interviews UFC champ Deiveson Figueiredo and UFC Vegas 64 headliners Rodriguez and Lemos. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday 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

Arnold Allen and Jake Paul picked up main event wins on Saturday in completely different ways in two separate sports during a busy weekend in the world of combat sports. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Arnold's win over Calvin Kattar at UFC Vegas 63, where he goes from here, and thoughts on some of the burning questions following the bout. Additionally, topics include Jake Paul's decision win over Anderson Silva on Saturday, the UFC's latest slew of releases and fighters parting ways with the company, Josh Thomson's double down on his comments about the MMA media, Muhammad Mokaev's ceiling, 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

Matt Brown returns to co-host the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer along with Belal Muhammad fresh off his win over Sean Brady at UFC 280. Brown will offer his reaction to Jake Paul’s unanimous decision win over Anderson Silva as the 25-year-old social influencer turned boxer picked up the biggest victory of his career over the UFC legend Brown will also answer conspiracy theories claiming that Paul’s knockdown was actually a phantom punch that put Silva down in the final round. Also on the show, Muhammad returns after his convincing performance in Abu Dhabi while explaining the scenario that led to his knockout win over Brady. Muhammad also addresses his next fight where he’s hoping to face Khamzat Chimaev as he offers some cutting criticism towards Colby Covington, who still remains ranked ahead of him in the welterweight division. 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

While Arnold Allen picked up the biggest win of his career over Calvin Kattar at UFC Vegas 63, the way he did it likely wasn't enough to get featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski excited enough to forego his path towards a massive fight with Islam Makhachev for the lightweight title. So what does the UFC do now to keep the 145-pound division moving forward? 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 Allen after picking up a second-round injury TKO win over Kattar to improve to 10-0 inside the octagon. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Max Griffin following his unanimous decision win over Tim Means in the co-main event, along with fellow main card winners Waldo Cortes-Acosta, Tresean Gore, Khalil Rountree, and more in the aftermath of the promotion's first event post-UFC 280. 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

Jake Paul added another former UFC champion to his résumé. The 25-year-old YouTuber turned professional boxer defeated Anderson Silva on Saturday night at the Desert Diamond Arena in Glendale, Ariz., dropping the 47-year-old Silva in the eighth round and ultimately winning a unanimous decision in a competitive affair. MMA Fighting’s Shaun Al-Shatti and José Youngs react to Paul’s victory over the UFC legend, what it means for Paul and Silva moving forward, and much more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti 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

For the second time in a three-month span, an important UFC featherweight main event bout ended with an unfortunate injury leaving fans and viewers with more questions than answers. In the main event of UFC Vegas 63, Arnold Allen got the biggest win of his career against Calvin Kattar, but it certainly wasn't the way he wanted it to happen. Following Saturday's event at the UFC APEX, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Allen's injury TKO win over Kattar, discuss if Kattar's corner is to blame for allowing their fighter to begin the second round, and what the win does for Allen in regards to the top of the 145-pound division. Additionally, they talk bonus winners, the scoring of Khalil Rountree's split decision win over Dustin Jacoby, under the radar standout performances, and more. 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

Calvin Kattar and Arnold Allen will compete in the main event of UFC Vegas 63 in a compelling matchup in the UFC featherweight division, but with the potential of champ Alexander Volkanovski moving up to lightweight to challenge Islam Makhachev, are there still big stakes for Kattar and Allen? Ahead of Saturday's event at the UFC APEX, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss the headliner, where the victor could go with an impressive win, and whether or not an interim title fight could be in play. Additionally, they discuss the co-main event between Max Griffin and Tim Means, Dustin Jacoby vs. Khalil Rountree, and other under the radar storylines. 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

It appears as if UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski will chase history and a second world title against Islam Makhachev in the near future, but what kind of impact will that have on an interesting 145 pound division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, it's a Free-For-All Friday as MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the current state of the featherweight division and how Volkanovski's potential move up shapes things — especially with Calvin Kattar and Arnold Allen getting ready to compete in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 63 card. Additionally, listener topics include Aljamain Sterling's next move, Jon Jones still lobbying for a UFC 282 matchup with Stipe Miocic, Josh Thomson, Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva, the UFC lightweight division, options for Belal Muhammad, 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

Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva is nearly upon us — can the legend mount one final magical moment? Shaun Al-Shatti and José Youngs break down all the storylines from downtown Phoenix ahead of Silva's moment of truth against Paul on Saturday. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti 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

Islam Makhachev is the new UFC lightweight champion after his dominant win over Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 280 this past Saturday. Is this the beginning of an all-time dominant title reign in the promotion's top division? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will react to Makhachev's victory, how long his reign could last, and a potential matchup with featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski. Additionally, topics include Aljamain Sterling's win over T.J. Dillashaw in the co-main event, Dillashaw's injury, and what could be next for the bantamweight champ, along with a very busy Saturday in combat sports ahead with Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva taking place, UFC Vegas 63 headlined by Calvin Kattar vs. Arnold Allen, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between the returning Jed Meshew and Drake Riggs. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Drake Riggs: @DrakeRiggs_ 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

Anderson Silva and Jake Paul's boxing match is going down in just two days, and while Silva isn't necessarily fighting to represent MMA, the MMA community will be rooting for the former UFC middleweight champion. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the bout between Silva and Paul, and how he sees the fight playing out. Additionally, the show kicks off with a response to Josh Thomson's video about the MMA media and demanding to "do our f****** job" in regards to the upcoming Bellator vs. RIZIN card in December, along with listener questions regarding the rumored Khamzat Chimaev vs. Colby Covington fight, Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones, the fallout of UFC 280, 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

Following the massive UFC 280 fight weekend, the UFC is back with another Apex offering, UFC Vegas 63, and that means the No Bets Barred boys are back as well, with all the best bets for Calvin Kattar vs. Arnold Allen. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew recap their disappointing weekends from UFC 280 before jumping into their bets for this weekend. UFC Vegas 63 is a tough card with a lot of close matchups and plenty of dog-or-pass fights, but Conner and Jed still find a way to get a handful of bets down each, including continuing to ride the Flyweight Under and Heavyweight Over bets that have treated them so well recently. Tune in for Episode 22 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

No matter how you scored it personally, Sean O'Malley defeated Petr Yan at UFC 280 — which as Dana White said before this past Saturday's card, should earn him a title shot against fellow main card winner and champ Aljamain Sterling. The now un-retired former champ Henry Cejudo has apparently entered the chat, but is that the right way to go? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck weighs in on the bantamweight title situation and explains why he believes O'Malley should get the fight with Sterling over Cejudo, and why the champ should be pushing for that fight over any other. Additionally, listener questions include UFC 280 reaction as a whole, Islam Makhachev's dominant title win over Charles Oliveira in the main event and a potential fight with featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski, Beneil Dariush and Belal Muhammad's big wins and where they could go from here, 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

Charles do Bronx não é mais o melhor peso-leve do mundo, e o Trocação Franca repercute tudo o que rolou no UFC 280 com a participação do jornalista Gustavo Faldon, enviado da ESPN a Abu Dhabi para cobrir a luta com Islam Makhachev. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Luiz Carlos Dórea, treinador de Anderson Silva para o duelo com Jake Paul, e os irmãos Gabriel e Ivan Oliveira, técnicos que estarão em lados opostos na luta entre Andrei Arlovski e Marcos Pezão no UFC deste sábado. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Charles Oliveira is no longer the best lightweight in the world. This week, Trocação Franca debates everything that went down at UFC 280 with Gustavo Faldon, ESPN Brazil's reporter who flew to Abu Dhabi to cover the fight with Islam Makhachev. The podcast also delivers interviews with Luiz Carlos Dorea — the boxing coach for Anderson Silva’s clash with Jake Paul — and Gabriel and Ivan Oliveira, ATT trainers who will be in opposite sides when Andrei Arlovski faces Marcos Rogerio de Lima at UFC Vegas 63. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday 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

Sean O’Malley upset Petr Yan on Saturday at UFC 280, but did he really? When it comes to rankings, what’s the protocol when an unranked fighter sneaks one out from his division’s No. 2 contender with one of the most controversial decisions of the year? That’s right, the MMA Fighting Rankings Show is back after another crazy weekend at UFC 280! Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined this month by Mike Heck and Jed Meshew to debate the fallout of the UFC’s latest trip to Abu Dhabi, O’Malley’s place in the new bantamweight pecking order, Islam Makhachev’s future after ascending as the king of the lightweight division, T.J. Dillashaw’s road following a disappointing showing against Aljamain Sterling, and more. The gang also take a moment to call out the sport’s worst offenders of the rankings squatting epidemic sweeping the UFC. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew 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 action-packed weekend at UFC 280, Alan Jouban joins the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer to help break down everything that unfolded in Abu Dhabi. Jouban, who worked as an analyst on the broadcast team, looks back at Islam Makhachev’s dominant performance as he defeated Charles Oliveira to become UFC lightweight champion while also giving his thoughts on Aljamain Sterling’s win over T.J. Dillashaw. Jouban also discusses Sean O’Malley’s controversial victory over Petr Yan and if he should get the next title shot over former champion Henry Cejudo, who is returning from retirement. Also on the show this week, Matt Brown joins the podcast to help preview the upcoming boxing match between Jake Paul and Anderson Silva. While Paul has largely run roughshod over the competition at this stage of his career, Silva represents by far his toughest challenge to date. But which Silva will show up? Will the same Silva who beat Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. step in the ring with Paul or will the legendary Brazilian decide to play with his food as he’s done in so many past fights that have cost him? Listen to what Brown has to say about the matchup while giving his prediction for the fight. 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

Islam Makhachev is the new UFC lightweight champion after a dominant second-round submission win over former champion Charles Oliveira in the main event of UFC 280, which extended his win streak to 11. Following the victory, Makhachev faced off with featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski for a potential superfight — but is that ultimately the direction he'll go? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss who Makhachev will defend his title against for the first time, and where Oliveira goes after having his incredible unbeaten streak snapped. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for bantamweight champ Aljamain Sterling — who picked up a second-round finish in the co-main event — former champ T.J. Dillashaw, Sean O'Malley and Petr Yan after a controversial split decision win for "Sugar," along with other notable winners Beneil Dariush, Manon Fiorot, Belal Muhammad, 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

The Islam Makhachev era has arrived. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Makhachev's second-round submission win over Charles Oliveira in the main event of Saturday's card at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, and his long-awaited coronation atop the lightweight ranks. The gang also reacts to Aljamain Sterling's second-round TKO win over T.J. Dillashaw, Sean O'Malley stunning upset of Petr Yan along with the controversy surrounding the decision, Beneil Dariush vs. Mateusz Gamrot, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaheen Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed K. 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

Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev will finally battle it out this Saturday to cap off an incredibly stacked UFC 280 lineup for the vacant UFC lightweight title. Ahead of the promotion's return to Abu Dhabi, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee break down the fascinating main event between Oliveira and Makhachev, the storylines, the stylistic differences, and more. Additionally, the gang previews the under the radar co-main event for the bantamweight title between Aljamain Sterling and former champ T.J. Dillashaw, the stakes for Sean O'Malley as he prepares for his matchup with Petr Yan, Katlyn Chookagian's weight miss, making the case for Belal Muhammad to have the most pressure on him when he meets Sean Brady, 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

On the eve of UFC 280, which is a blockbuster card with several high stakes matchups, which of the fighters has the most pressure on them to win on Saturday in Abu Dhabi? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses what's on the line for some of the big fights at UFC 280, including the main event between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev. Additionally, listener questions include Belal Muhammad's future with a big win over Sean Brady, the bantamweight title fight between Aljamain Sterling and T.J. Dillashaw, Khamzat Chimaev, Jon Jones, the impact of Katlyn Chookagian's weight miss ahead of her bout with Manon Fiorot, the MMA Fighting UFC 280 Watch Party — which takes place Saturday at 1:45 p.m. ET live on the MMA Fighting YouTube channel — 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

Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev will finally collide in one of the most anticipated matchups of 2022 in the main event of UFC 280 this Saturday in Abu Dhabi to crown a new UFC lightweight champion. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the high stakes 155-pound matchup between Oliveira and Makhachev, and what is on the line in terms of all-time greatness. Additionally, topics will include the bantamweight title fight between Aljamain Sterling and T.J. Dillashaw and why it's flying under the radar, Petr Yan vs. Sean O'Malley and the other massive bouts on the card, Jon Jones potentially fighting at UFC 282 in December, Alexa Grasso's big win at UFC Vegas 62 and her current place in the flyweight title discussion, and more. Host Mike Heck will moderate the matchup between MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Two days away from the massive UFC 280 main event between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev, what is the biggest question you have about that fight in regards to how this highly anticipated vacant lightweight title bout plays out? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reveals what he believes could be the biggest factor in the high stakes headliner this Saturday in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, listener questions include which fighter winning would be better for the UFC business wise, Sean Brady vs. Belal Muhammad, Petr Yan going back to a three-round fight against Sean O'Malley, whether or not the talks about Khabib Nurmagomedov potentially coming back to fight will end any time soon, Beneil Dariush being one of the most unlucky fighters in the promotion, the MMA Fighting UFC 280 Watch Party — which takes place Saturday at 1:45 p.m. ET live on the MMA Fighting YouTube channel — 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

It's the week we've all been waiting for as UFC 280 takes place this Saturday in Abu Dhabi. Featuring two title fights and numerous other marquee matchups, UFC 280 is the best event of the year and the No Bets Barred boys have you covered for all your gambling needs. For this huge events, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew are joined by Deputy Editor for MMAFighting.com (great website), Shaheen Al-Shatti, and the boys immediately get into it discussing the main event lightweight title fight between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev, the bantamweight title fight co-main event between Aljamain Sterling and T.J. Dillashaw, and every other bout on the card, including the featured main card bout between Petr Yan and Sean O'Malley. In the end, the boys end up with an absolutely ludicrous number of bets, with action on every fight on the card including Jed's continuing experiment with The Constanza Paradox, and a very special parlay. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaheen Al-Shatti: @shaunalshatti 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

Charles do Bronx e Islam Makhachev finalmente se enfrentarão para definir quem é o melhor peso-leve do mundo, e o Trocação Franca destrincha tudo o que cerca o UFC 280. O podcast dessa semana recebe o jornalista do PVT, Leonardo Fabri, que acompanhou o início da carreira meteórica do menino do Guarujá, além de Diego Lima e Alireza Noei, treinadores da fera na Chute Boxe. Na sessão Fight Week, entrevistas com Caio Borralho, John Lineker, Fabrício Andrade e Kleber Koike. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev finally collide to determine who's the best lightweight fighter on the planet — and Trocação Franca is here to break down all things UFC 280. This weeek's podcast welcomes PVT journalist Leonardo Fabri, who has covered the early days of Oliveira's rise to stardom, as well as Chute Boxe coaches Diego Lima and Alireza Noei. The Fight Week portion of the program features Caio Borralho, John Lineker, Fabricio Andrade and Kleber Koike. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday 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

Sean O'Malley is preparing for his biggest test to date this Saturday at UFC 280 against former bantamweight champion Petr Yan. Will an O'Malley upset victory guarantee him a title shot against the winner of the co-main event? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the high stakes in the featured bout of this weekend's massive pay-per-view card in Abu Dhabi between Yan and O'Malley, and what direction each fighter could go based on the result. Additionally, listener topics include Jorge Masvidal's recent interview with MMA Fighting and his callout of welterweight champion Leon Edwards, Jon Jones' potential involvement at UFC 282, the chaos of the featherweight division, T.J. Dillashaw's bantamweight GOAT status should he defeat Aljamain Sterling on Saturday, Charles Oliveira vs. Islam Makhachev, APEX cards vs. arena shows for the UFC, the UFC's latest rules on fighters and coaches betting on promotional bouts, 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 the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, former UFC lightweight champion Frankie Edgar and UFC 280 competitor Beneil Dariush join the show. Following news that his next fight at UFC 281 would be the last of his career, Edgar details why he decided now was the best time to retire from competition after a storied career. Edgar explains what made him believe it was time to hang up the gloves while he was still a relevant contender in the bantamweight division. The New Jersey native will also address concerns over his long term health as well as the fights that will help define his career after retirement. Also on the show, Dariush discusses his upcoming fight against Mateusz Gamrot at UFC 280 and if there was any disappointment that he didn’t get a higher ranked opponent like Dustin Poirier or Michael Chandler. In fact, Dariush admits he may just be the most avoided man in the entire lightweight division with the difficulty he’s had with top-ranked opponents rarely calling his name when it comes time to book a fight. 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

Alexa Grasso's name is certainly in the flyweight title conversation following her unanimous decision win over Viviane Araujo in the main event of UFC Vegas 62, but is she at the top of the list? Or, does Grasso have more work to do to get to her first championship opportunity? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee put a bow on UFC Vegas 62 from a matchmaking perspective, and discuss what could be next for Grasso, and what needs to happen at UFC 280 between Manon Fiorot and Katlyn Chookagian for her to get the next crack at Valentina Shevchenko. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Jonathan Martinez following his finish of Cub Swanson in the co-main event, along with fellow victors Dusko Todorovic, Raphael Assuncao, Alonzo Menefield, 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

Alexa Grasso may find herself in the driver's seat of the UFC women's flyweight division's world title picture after defeating Viviane Araujo in her first main event bout. Following UFC Vegas 62, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and E. Casey Leydon react to Grasso's fourth straight win, and why she could be in a better position to face Valentina Shevchenko for the title than people think, Jonathan Martinez's tremendous performance in finishing Cub Swanson in the co-main and his subsequent callout of Dominick Cruz, Raphael Assuncao's turn-back-the-clock showing in his unanimous decision win over Victor Henry, the ceilings of Joanderson Brito and Tatsuro Taira, 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

Alexa Grasso can put the pressure on Manon Fiorot and Katlyn Chookagian in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 62 event. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon discuss the stakes in Grasso's main event bout with Viviane Araujo at the UFC APEX — which takes place a week prior to the UFC 280 bout between Fiorot and Chookagian — and if Araujo could get herself in serious title contention with an upset win. Additionally, topics include Cub Swanson's UFC bantamweight debut against Jonathan Martinez, the loss of Askar Askarov and Brandon Royval's impact on the card as a whole, what fight could be flying under the radar, and more. 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

While it was made official that Jiri Prochazka will run it back with Glover Teixeira at UFC 282 for his first title defense, is the addition of Jon Jones in his heavyweight debut necessary for the UFC's year-end pay-per-view event? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the Prochazka vs. Teixeira 2 booking for the Dec. 10 card in Las Vegas, and takes listener questions in regards if the UFC should still try to get Jones on the card in some sort of title fight. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC Vegas 62 lineup, Aljamain Sterling vs. T.J. Dillashaw's bantamweight championship fight flying under the radar at UFC 280, the stakes in the Sean Brady vs. Belal Muhammad welterweight matchup, a potential return to Boston for the UFC, Aspen Ladd's comments about the 145-pound division, 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

José Aldo se aposentou oficialmente do MMA para curtir a família, mas... será que é pra valer? Em uma longa entrevista exclusiva ao podcast Trocação Franca, o ex-campeão do UFC falou sobre a decisão de parar, sua situação contratual, se cogita lutar em outra modalidade, elegeu os momentos mais marcantes da carreira e as próximas estrelas do país no esporte, e revelou como Dana White pode involuntariamente ter salvo a vida do seu filho recém-nascido. Jose Aldo officially retired from MMA to enjoy his family but... is he out for good? In a long exclusive interview with Trocação Franca, the former UFC champion opened up on his decision to retire, his contract situation, if there's a chance he ever fights again in other sport, the best moments of his career, the next Brazilian stars in MMA, and how Dana White involuntarily might have saved the life of his newborn son. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday 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

UFC featherweight champion has revealed he is the backup fighter for the lightweight championship main event between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev at UFC280 — much to the chagrin of Beneil Dariush. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to Volkanovski's claims he is the backup plan for the highly anticipated vacant title fight next weekend, and if Dariush should feel slighted if that's true. Additionally, topics include the UFC's return to action this Saturday with UFC Vegas 62, the stakes on the main event between Alexa Grasso and Viviane Araujo, Cub Swanson's move to bantamweight, Kevin Holland ending his short-lived retirement to face Stephen Thompson in the main event of December's UFC Orlando card, Tai Tuivasa vs. Sergei Pavlovich getting the co-main event slot, Uriah Hall boxing Le'Veon Bell on the Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva undercard, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and UFC lightweight Grant Dawson. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Grant Dawson: @dawsongrant20y1 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

Henry Cejudo continues to tease his UFC comeback, and while he feels he should be immediately thrust into a title fight, is that how the UFC views the situation? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Cejudo's potential comeback after retiring from the sport, what matchups make sense, and why a title fight seems unlikely at this point. Additionally, listener questions include Khabib Nurmagomedov's confidence in his fighter Islam Makhachev ahead of his UFC 280 main event bout against Charles Oliveira, the UFC's bantamweight division vs. Bellator's, the hole in the main event spot on December's UFC 282 card, Julianna Peña's chances in getting the trilogy fight against Amanda Nunes, 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 taking a week off, the UFC is back this Saturday with another Apex event in UFC Vegas 62, headlined by a women's flyweight bout between Alexa Grasso and Viviane Araújo, and that means the No Bets Barred boys are back to cover all of your gambling needs. After a brief discussion on UFC Vegas 61 and Bellator 286, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive into this week's card, celebrating the long-awaited return of flyweight bouts, and the corresponding UNDER bets that go with them. Then, Jed debuts a brand new gambling theory that he's testing out on this weekend's card. 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

UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski revealed on Monday that he will be the backup for the vacant lightweight title fight between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev in the main event of UFC 280. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Volkanovski's involvement in the 155-pound title situation for the UFC's highly anticipated pay-per-view event, and where that puts him in the overall landscape should his services not be needed. Additionally, listener questions include refereeing in MMA and what needs to change in regards to fence grabs, and penalizing fighters in general for clear fouls, rising talent, the UFC rankings structure, if Khabib Nurmagomedov could come back to competition, 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

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling stops by the show as well as Jake Paul ahead of his upcoming showdown against Anderson Silva. Sterling will preview his upcoming title defense against T.J. Dillashaw while addressing the cheating allegations that have continued to swirl around his opponent after serving a two-year suspension from USADA. Sterling will also offer his analysis on the bantamweight fight between Petr Yan and Sean O’Malley, which also takes place at UFC 280 while giving his prediction on who he believes will come out victorious. As he prepares for the toughest test of his young boxing career, Paul will address his underdog status against a UFC legend in Silva and why even some of the people closest to him were questioning if he was really ready for this kind of challenge. Paul will also discuss his interest in potential fights against Floyd Mayweather and KSI as well as hint about a possible move into mixed martial arts one day in the future. 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

Islam Makhachev is exuding extreme confidence heading into his first UFC world title fight next weekend at the highly anticipated UFC 280 event, but has his confidence put him in a must-win position ahead of his bout against Charles Oliveira? On an all-new bonus edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers listener questions regarding Makhachev's confident comments throughout the fight build for the vacant lightweight championship main event in Abu Dhabi. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC's bantamweight division, the PFL's upcoming pay-per-view and the expectations behind it, Aljamain Sterling vs. T.J. Dillashaw, Frankie Edgar's booking with Chris Gutierrez at UFC 281, Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira, MMA journalism, Alistair Overeem's big win at Glory's event this past weekend, 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

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, and this episode, we are covering the career of one of the greatest action fighters of all-time, Melvin Manhoef. During his 26-year, 103-fight career, Manhoef established himself as one of combat sports' premiere knockout artists, competing in practically every major organization that has ever existed. Though he never won a major title, Manhoef delivered highlight-reel KO after highlight-reel KO, making him appointment viewing for nearly three decades. In honor of Manhoef's recent retirement, host Jed Meshew is joined by MMAFighting's Alexander K. Lee to remember the unparalleled violence that was "No Mercy." 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

On Thursday's edition of Between the Links, MMA Fighting's Damon Martin had a hot take prediction that stirred up a lot of debate: If Bo Nickal fought UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya, would Nickal actually win? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes listener calls about that take, and puts a slight tweak on it by discussing whether or not it would be a competitive fight right now. Additionally, listener topics include Islam Makhachev's road to his UFC 280 title shot in comparison to Khabib Nurmagomedov's, what is going on with Jon Jones, Frankie Edgar's potential retirement fight booked for UFC 281 at Madison Square Garden against Chris Gutierrez, ONE Championship's reported financial struggles, what current Bellator or PFL champions would have the best chance to defeat a current UFC champion, 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 pivotal final stretch for the UFC, Bellator, PFL, and more is vast approaching as the incredible athletes in the sport of MMA look to take home some hardware at the end of 2022. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, it's a special roundtable episode to discuss the frontrunners for MMA Fighting's 2022 year-end awards, and how things can change before the calendar changes to 2023. Topics include male fighter of the year, and if there's any chance Khamzat Chimaev could win the award, female fighter of the year, if that award go to a non-champion, the fight of the year, if the UFC 275 title fight between Jiri Prochazka and Glover Teixeira are the clear-cut clubhouse leaders, or if the UFC 273 bout between Chimaev and Gilbert Burns could take the trophy, KO of the year, if Leon Edwards' stunning finish of Kamaru Usman leads Michael Chandler's front-kick KO of Tony Ferguson, submission of the year, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the discussion that includes MMA Fighting's Damon Martin and Alexander K. Lee. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin 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

Four years ago today, Khabib Nurmagomedov submitted Conor McGregor to retain the UFC lightweight title in the highly anticipated main event of UFC 229, and then all hell broke loose. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes listener questions about the Nurmagomedov vs. McGregor bout from October 2018, the build to the matchup, and the aftermath — most notably, Nurmagomedov jumping out of the octagon into the crowd. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC's lightweight division, the chances Michael Chandler gets a title shot with a win over Dustin Poirier at UFC 281, Sodiq Yusuff's next opponent, UFC Vegas 62 and the main event stakes between Alexa Grasso and Viviane Araujo, Francis Ngannou, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: 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 lightweight contender Justin Gaethje sits down with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss teaming up with the UFC and Modelo for the gym revitalization program and his role in helping to renovate a local gym in Denver, his successful nose surgery, wanting to return in 2023, what opponents make sense, if he was offered a fight with Rafael Fiziev for December, what it would take for him to fight Conor McGregor, the UFC280 main event for the lightweight title between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev, 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

Kevin Holland's retirement didn't last long, and now he's set for a huge fight against a two-time UFC title challenger in December. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Holland's short-lived retirement from the UFC, and his scheduled main event matchup against Stephen Thompson for Dec. 3 at UFC Orlando. Additionally, listener questions include Conor McGregor's comeback opponent, who Justin Gaethje should fight when he's ready to return to the octagon, the UFC lightweight division, Bo Nickal, the UFC's 30-year anniversary coming up in 2023, Paddy Pimblett, who should fight Frankie Edgar in his retirement fight at UFC 281 in November at Madison Square Garden, 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 UFC começou a agendar as lutas para o próximo evento no Brasil, primeiro card no país em quase três anos, e já tem até campeão escalado. Com um terço já definido, o evento deve agradar um frustrar o fã brasileiro? O Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe o jornalista Carlos Antunes para debater o assunto, além de entrevistar Thiago Marreta, que deixou o UFC para assinar com a PFL, e Vivi Araújo, que faz a luta principal do UFC Vegas de 15 de outubro. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. The UFC is building the UFC 283 card for its return to Rio de Janeiro, the first show in Brazil in nearly three years, and a champion is already booked for Jan. 21. One third of the card is already set, but how good is the lineup so far? Trocação Franca welcomes journalist Carlos Antunes to discuss that and more. The podcast also interviews Thiago Santos on his departure from the UFC to PFL, and UFC Vegas 62 headliner Viviane Araujo on her clash with Alexa Grasso. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every Wednesday 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

When Paddy Pimblett is ready to return to the octagon — whether it be at UFC 282 in December, or when the promotion heads back to London in 2023 — how should the UFC book him, and how much of a step up should he get? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses options for Pimblett, including his suggestion from this week's edition of On To the Next One with a fight against UFC Vegas 61 winner Mike Davis. Additionally, listener suggestions include referees allowing multiple infractions to go without any penalty, Bo Nickal's interview on The MMA Hour and his thoughts about fighting on the prelims, the lightweight title picture, Charles Oliveira being the underdog against Islam Makhachev at UFC 280, Mark Zuckerberg attending UFC Vegas 61, 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

Ahead of UFC 280 in Abu Dhabi, UFC light heavyweight Anthony Smith joins The Fighter vs. The Writer to break down the biggest storylines heading into what should be a monumental pay-per-view in 2022. Smith will give his thoughts on the main event where Charles Oliveira clashes with Islam Makhachev to determine a new UFC lightweight champion. Makhachev has looked unbeatable during his current win streak but are people overlooking the dominance Oliveira has shown while taking out the best fighters in the world at 155 pounds? Smith will also explain why he believes Sean O’Malley ended up with the best possible fight to jump the line and potentially earn a title shot while facing former bantamweight champion Petr Yan. The breakdown will also include analysis for the co-main event between Aljamain Sterling and T.J. Dillashaw as well as Beneil Dariush vs. Mateusz Gamrot and Belal Muhammad vs. Sean Brady. In addition to making picks and predictions for UFC 280, Smith will also give an update on his current health after undergoing surgery on a broken leg following his most recent fight against Magomed Ankalaev. Smith reveals he’s been dealing with some difficulties in the wake of his surgery and when he’s hoping to return to action. 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