MMA Fighting

While 2022 has produced rising stars, incredible fights, and exciting finishes, it has also provided a shining light on the holes in judging in the sport of mixed martial arts. The big question remains: What can be done to improve it? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on what it could take to improve judging, or at least get more competent people sitting in those very important seats during fight nights. Additionally, listener questions include UFC Vegas 66, Arman Tsarukyan's ceiling at 155, the UFC's lightweight division as a whole and who could emerge as the next new face, Paddy Pimblett's next opponent, Glover Teixeira vs. Jamahal Hill, 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

Coming off an up-and-down week at UFC 282, the No Bets Barred boys are back to discuss the final UFC event of the year, UFC Vegas 66. Headlined by a Top-10 middleweight clash between Jared Cannonier and Sean Strickland, UFC Vegas 66 features 14 fights, and since it's the final event of the year, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew decide to get after it with a ridiculous number of plays on the card, including dissension in many of their bets, except when it comes to that tried and true No Bets Barred tradition: Flyweight Unders. Tune in for Episode 29 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

Glover Teixeira terá seu desejo atendido no fim das contas. Menos de um mês após ver o sonho do cinturão evaporar, uma reviravolta novamente deu ao mineiro sua chance, agora contra Jamahal Hill, no Rio de Janeiro. Em papo exclusivo com o Trocação Franca, Glover falou das trocas, a chance de se aposentar com vitória na Cidade Maravilhosa, e muito mais. O podcast conversa ainda com Alessandro Costa, representante brasileiro no último UFC de 2022. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Glover Teixeira’s wish will come true after all. Less than a month after watching his title shot vanish, a twist now has Teixeira facing Jahamal Hill for the vacant title in Rio de Janeiro. Glover Teixeira chats with Trocação Franca about the switch, the odds of him retiring after UFC 283, and more. The podcast also welcomes Alessandro Costa, the lone Brazilian on the final UFC card of 2022. 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 282 is in the books, and while controversy filled the T-Mobile Arena in the final two fights of the evening, Glover Teixeira ended the night by getting exactly what he wanted without even having to compete. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck recaps the top storylines of UFC 282, including Teixeira finding his way into a light heavyweight title fight against Jamahal Hill at UFC 283 after the main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev ended in a draw. Additionally, listener questions include the judging in the Paddy Pimblett vs. Jared Gordon fight, Darren Till's future after losing to Dricus Du Plessis, the judging in the final two fights of 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

Paddy Pimblett isn't a top-15 lightweight. That much is clear after his controversial win over Jared Gordon. But just how far down the 155-pound ladder do you have to drop to find his place in the global lightweight ranks? That's right, the MMA Fighting Rankings Show is back after another wild and wacky weekend at UFC 282! Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined this month by Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to debate the fallout of the UFC’s year-end pay-per-view, Pimblett’s place in the lightweight landscape, the sad state of affairs in the two saddest divisions in the sport, Kayla Harrison’s future following a stunning loss to Larissa Pacheco, and more. The gang also take their stab at wagering on futures for several of the brightest talents in MMA. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee 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

On the heels of UFC 282 this past Saturday night, The Fighter vs. The Writer returns to react to everything that unfolded including the split draw in the main event and Paddy Pimblett earning a controversial decision over Jared Gordon. UFC welterweight Matt Brown joins Damon Martin on the show to react to everything that unfolded at the final pay-per-view card in 2022. Brown will give his opinion on Pimblett’s performance with many believing he should have left UFC 282 with a loss rather than a win. Where does Pimblett go from here and what are his long term prospects in the UFC? According to Brown, Pimblett should probably stay far away from anyone inside the top 15 rankings at lightweight because he doesn’t believe the results would be good for the always outspoken fighter from Liverpool, England. Brown will also give his thoughts on a number of surprising scorecards handed out by the judges at UFC 282 and why there needs to be a lot more accountability for judging in the sport. 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

After a finish-filled 10-fight start at UFC 282, the final two bouts were the only to go to the judges' scorecards where controversy reigned supreme — leading to a light heavyweight division still not having an official UFC champion. With Dana White putting a new championship bout on the books for UFC 283, where do Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev go from here? 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 Paddy Pimblett following his heavily debated decision win over Jared Gordon in the co-main event, Santiago Ponzinibbio, Dricus Du Plessis after his stoppage win over Darren Till, breakout star Ilia Topuria, 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

Paddy Pimblett improved to 4-0 in the UFC on Saturday, but it has been met with quite a bit of controversy following UFC 282. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jose Youngs, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Pimblett's heavily debated decision win over Jared Gordon in the co-main event of the UFC's final pay-per-view of the year. Additionally, they discuss the main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Anakaleav being scored a draw, Dana White revealing the Glover Teixeira will fight Jamahal Hill to crown a new champion at UFC 283, Dricus Du Plessis' finish of Darren Till, the breakout performance for Ilia Topuria, Raul Rosas Jr. impressing in his octagon debut, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew 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

Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev are set to battle it out for the vacant light heavyweight title in the main event of UFC 282, while Paddy Pimblett and Jared Gordon will compete in the lightweight co-main event to cap off the UFC's pay-per-view year. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee preview those matchups, Saturday's card as a whole, discuss the other big storylines, 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

Darren Till returns to the octagon for the first time in well over a year when he faces Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 282. With just one victory in five appearances, is Till in a must-win situation on Saturday night in Las Vegas? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses what is at stake for Till against Du Plessis, and how the one-time title challenger matches up. Additionally, listener questions include Paddy Pimblett at the UFC 282 press conference, if a fight between Pimblett and Ilia Topuria would make sense next regardless of what happens on Saturday, where the winner of the matchup between Topuria and Bryce Mitchell could go at 145, the Bellator 289 main card compared to the UFC's, 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 is heading into their final pay-per-view event of 2022, and a new light heavyweight champion will be crowned in the main event. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss Saturday's main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 282 along with what could be next for the winner. Additionally, they'll talk Paddy Pimblett facing Jared Gordon in the co-main event, how the rest of the card shapes up, the fallout of # UFC Orlando and Stephen Thompson's main event win against Kevin Holland, the UFC betting scandal and the promotion's response to James Krause and his fighters, Bellator 289 this Friday headlined by the interim bantamweight title rivalry fight between Raufeon Stots and Danny Sabatello, and more. This week, host Mike Heck will be joined by MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew for a talking heads discussion about the biggest stories in MMA. 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

Paddy Pimblett has his toughest test to date when he faces Jared Gordon in the co-main event of Saturday's UFC 282 fight card. Should Pimblett improve to 4-0 inside the octagon, what should be next for him? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on how he would matchmake "The Baddy" if victorious on Saturday, and gives his thoughts on Pimblett's podcast with Dana White. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC 282 main event between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev, Bryce Mitchell vs. Ilia Topuria, Friday's Bellator 289 fight card, the must-win spot for Darren Till, 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

After an up-and-down week for UFC Orlando, the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down the final PPV event of 2022, UFC 282. Headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev., co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive into their favorite bets this weekend, including Ankalaev’s chances to become the new champion, Paddy Pimblett’s first co-main event spot, Jed’s continued insistence on riding the rollercoaster of Heavyweight Overs, and the most dangerous Flyweight Under bet yet. Then at the end, Conner and Jed even throw out a couple of Bellator 289 plays, just for the fun of it. Tune in for Episode 28 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

Semana decisiva para a Argentina no futebol e MMA, com os hermanos enfrentando a Holanda por uma vaga nas semifinais da Copa do Mundo e Santiago Ponzinibbio buscando voltar à boa fase no UFC 282, e o Trocação Franca recebe o “Argentino Gente Boa” para falar de futebol, MMA e tudo mais. O podcast conversa também com Juliana Velasquez, que parte em busca de vingança contra Liz Carmouche pelo cinturão do Bellator, na sexta. It’s a big week for Argentina in soccer and MMA, with the hermanos playing Netherlands for a spot in the 2022 World Cup semifinal and Santiago Ponzinibbio looking to get back on track at UFC 282, so Trocação Franca welcomes the Argentine fighter to talk all things soccer, MMA and more. The podcast also features Juliana Velasquez ahead of her championship rematch with Liz Carmouche on Friday’s Bellator. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The ongoing story regarding James Krause and UFC gambling seems as if it's only going to get worse before it gets better. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the UFC's response in regards to Krause's suspension in Nevada, and no longer allowing fighters who even train with Krause to compete for the promotion pending the results of investigations. Additionally, listener topics include the retirement of T.J. Dillashaw, whether or not a Stephen Thompson vs. Conor McGregor fight makes sense following an entertaining victory for "Wonderboy" at UFC Orlando, Sergei Pavlovich's ceiling at heavyweight, Bellator 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

UFC commentator joins MMA Fighting’s José Youngs on episode 2 of Anything But Fighting. The Boston native opens up his lifelong love of the sports, reflects on some of his favorite memories from the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Celtics, looks back on the infamous 'Tuck Rule' game from 2001, breaks down the greatest Boston athletes, and more. He also tries his hand at the mysterious Bucket of Questions to close out the episode. · Follow José Youngs: https://twitter.com/JoseYoungs · Follow Jon Anik: https://twitter.com/jon_anik · Music by Nick Wolf: http://instagram.com/nickwolfmusic · Art by Adam Nelson: https://www.instagram.com/gorilla_the_bear Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, UFC welterweight Matt Brown and Damon Martin discuss the latest news from around the sport and preview the upcoming UFC 282 card. At the top of the show, Brown will react to the news that the UFC has moved to prevent any fighters associated with James Krause from competing in the promotion due to an ongoing investigation surrounding betting irregularities. Brown will offer his insight into what the UFC had previously told fighters about betting on contests and his own history seeing athletes and coaches wagering on the sport. We’ll also break down everything that unfolded at UFC Orlando including Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson’s win over Kevin Holland in the main event. Brown praises Holland’s coaches for stopping the fight after the fourth round rather than sending him back out when he was clearly compromised. Finally, we’ll look ahead at UFC 282 and the two biggest fights on the card as Jan Blachowicz and Magomed Ankalaev battle for the light heavyweight title and Paddy Pimblett looks to continue his winning ways against Jared Gordon. Brown will discuss Pimblett’s rapid rise and his feeling about the British fighter constantly ballooning up in weight between fights and what that says about his chances for long-term success in the sport. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Stephen Thompson looked fantastic in his return to the octagon as he stopped Kevin Holland in the fourth round via TKO. Does "Wonderboy" have one last title run left in him, and if so, what's the next step he needs to take to get there? 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 Thompson's main event victory at UFC Orlando this past Saturday. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Rafael dos Anjos after his dominant submission win over Bryan Barberena in the co-main event, Matheus Nicolau following his stoppage of Matt Schnell on the final fight of his contract, Sergei Pavlovich after his eye-opening finish of Tai Tuivasa, along with fellow victors Roman Dolidze, Eryk Anders, 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

Stephen Thompson accomplished his mission of proving to UFC fans that he's still got it on Saturday night at UFC Orlando. Following a fourth-round corner stoppage TKO win for "Wonderboy" against the incredibly tough Kevin Holland, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and E. Casey Leydon react to the exciting battle, and Thomson's turn-back-the-clock performance. Additionally, they discuss Rafael dos Anjos' dominant performance in the co-main event, his overall resumé, and the callout of Conor McGregor, Sergei Pavlovich's devastating finish of Tai Tuivasa, Roman Dolidze's stoppage win against Jack Hermansson and callout of Khamzat Chimaev, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc 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 UFC's statement regarding James Krause being suspended by Nevada, and any fighters that choose to be coached by Krause will no longer be permitted to participate in UFC events pending the results of an ongoing investigation, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee react to the news. 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

Ahead of Stephen Thompson and Kevin Holland's main event matchup, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew preview the welterweight headliner, along with other top storylines heading into Saturday's UFC Orlando event. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Thursday, the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario announced a ban on gambling on UFC fights over "integrity requirements." Is this news a one-spot thing, or is it the beginning of a massive snowball rolling downhill in regards to the continuously growing world of MMA gambling? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his reaction to the province of Ontario's decision and where things could go from there. Additionally, listener questions include Aljamain Sterling confirming he'll defend his title against Henry Cejudo next, Conor McGregor's potential comeback, Stephen Thompson's future if he loses to Kevin Holland in the main event of UFC Orlando, ONE Championship, 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

The final UFC pay-per-view of 2022 will be capped off by the crowning of a brand new light heavyweight champion now that Jiri Prochazka is out of the picture for the time being. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel discusses Prochazka's decision to vacate the light heavyweight title after an injury forced him out of the UFC 282 main event, Jan Blachowicz vs. Magomed Ankalaev fighting for the vacant title, and whether or not it was the right choice. Additionally, topics include the PFL World Championship pay-per-view event this past Friday, grading the promotion on how it all went, what's next for Kayla Harrison following her loss to Larissa Pacheco, the new feud between UFC champ Alex Pereira and Khamzat Chimaev, UFC Orlando headlined by Stephen Thompson vs. Kevin Holland, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Eric "New York Ric" Jackman. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow New York Ric: @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

Although there are alleged legal ramifications surrounding their current relationship, but hypothetically speaking, if the UFC could somehow put together a fight between seemingly former friends Conor McGregor and Artem Lobov, could that be a massive drawing fight for the promotion? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck takes listener questions, which includes the potential box office appeal for a McGregor vs. Lobov matchup if it could somehow get made in 2023. Additionally, topics include Jorge Masvidal's recent interview with MMA Fighting, Glover Teixeira's spot in the light heavyweight title picture, the UFC Orlando main event between Stephen Thompson and Kevin Holland, Tracy Cortez vs. Amanda Ribas matchup on Saturday's card, 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 for Thanksgiving, the UFC is back with a vengeance with UFC Orlando, headlined by a welterweight scrap between Stephen Thompson and Kevin Holland, and the No Bets Barred boys are back to cover all the betting action. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew recap the 2022 PFL Championships where Conner nearly went a perfect 15-0, before diving into the 15-fight UFC Orlando card. Conner and Jed end up at odds on a number of plays, but they're in unison where it counts, with the return of flyweight unders and the people's heavyweight champion of the world, Tai Tuivasa. Plus, Jed cooks up a disgusting little two-team parlay that pays out a whopping +1356. Tune in for Episode 27 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

Gilbert Durinho suou, mas enfim conseguiu um adversário para enfrentar no UFC — e, apesar da campanha, não será Jorge Masvidal. O atleta de de Niterói volta ao Trocação Franca para falar da novela que se tornou a negociação de luta com Masvidal, o confronto com Neil Magny no UFC Rio, e muito mais. O podcast recebe também a dupla Amanda Ribas e Matheus Nicolau, que representa o Brasil no UFC deste sábado, na Flórida. Gilbert Burns finally has an opponent to face in the UFC — but, despite all the campaign, it won’t be Jorge Masvidal. The Brazilian fighter returns to Trocação Franca to discuss the Masvidal saga, facing Neil Magny at UFC 283 in Rio de Janeiro, and more. The podcast also brings interviews with Amanda Ribas and Matheus Nicolau ahead of Saturday’s UFC event in Orlando. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Two-time UFC title challenger Jorge Masvidal speaks with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview Friday's iKON FC 6 event in Orlando, talks Gilbert Burns, Leon Edwards saying he'll settle the score in or out of the octagon, Michael Chandler's callout for a BMF title shot, why he believes Chandler shouldn't be in the BMF discussion, teammate Kayla Harrison suffering her first loss at the PFL World Championship event, goals as a promoter in 2023, 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

With Jiri Prochazka making the decision to vacate the light heavyweight title after suffering an injury that knocked him out of the UFC 282 event with Glover Teixeira, did the UFC make the right call going with Jan Blachowicz vs. Magomed Ankalaev for the vacant championship? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the UFC 282 shakeup, the new main event for the card, and Teixeira being the odd man out after asking for a second bout with Blachowicz and getting denied. Additionally, listener questions include whether or not the UFC 282 card is worth a $75 purchase with all of the movement, Larissa Pacheco defeating Kayla Harrison at the PFL World Championship card this past Friday, Alex Pereira vs. Khamzat Chimaev, the momentum the PFL has following their first pay-per-view event, Francis Ngannou vs. Jon Jones, what could be next for Jorge Masvidal with Gilbert Burns fighting Neil Magny at UFC 283, 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, Matt Brown and Damon Martin react to the latest news in MMA including Conor McGregor’s outburst aimed at Anthony Smith over his current status with USADA. As of now, McGregor has been completely removed from the UFC’s anti-doping program, which means he’ll need to undergo six months of testing before he’s allowed to return again. That earned him some criticism from Smith but in response McGregor lashed out at the one-time UFC title challenger. But did Smith get it right where McGregor is concerned or is the Irish superstar actually doing anything wrong by dropping out of the testing pool while he’s not fighting? Brown will give his take after he personally dropped out of the USADA testing pool himself a few years ago before making his return to action. Also on the show, we’ll discuss Kayla Harrison’s shocking loss to Larissa Pacheco and where she goes from here with two fights remaining on her current contract with the PFL. Did Harrison’s value plummet with that loss or does she remain a top target for free agency once she able to test the market again? Plus, Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson joins the show to preview his upcoming fight against Kevin Holland and his desire to remind the world that he’s still one of the best welterweights in the sport despite losing his last two fights. Also don’t miss Brown telling a story about his interaction with “Wonderboy” when they road in an ambulance together after their fight in 2012. 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

Following Larissa Pacheco's upset win over Kayla Harrison in the main event of the PFL World Championship, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to the shocking conclusion of the PFL's first pay-per-view event. 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

After a chaotic weekend in the world of combat sports, a lot of news, and perhaps speculation came out of it. But what storyline stood out the most? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel of MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew discuss Vadim Nemkov's upset win over Corey Anderson to retain the light heavyweight title, Usman Nurmagomedov dominating Patricky Pitbull in the co-main event to win the lightweight title, Bellator 290 heading to CBS — which includes Fedor Emelianenko challenging Ryan Bader for the heavyweight title in his final fight — the James Krause fallout following UFC Vegas 65, the PFL World Championship pay-per-view card on Friday, Khamzat Chimaev calling for a middleweight title fight against Alex Pereira, reveal some of the things they are thankful for in the world of MMA, 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

There's not UFC event this weekend but that doesn't mean there isn't some serious fight action as the PFL hosts their 2022 Championships at Madison Square Garden in New York City, and so you know the No Bets Barred boys had to get some bets down. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew discuss a successful week betting on UFC Vegas 65 before hopping into breakdowns for all SIX title fights at the PFL Championships. Conner will be in attendance so he places wagers on almost every fight on the card, while Jed debates an All In bet on Kayla Harrison and offers up a few live dogs he thinks are worth a play. Tune in for Episode 26 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

MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Jed Meshew react to the news that an injury to Jiri Prochazka has forced him out of the UFC 282 main event with Glover Teixeira, that Prochazka has vacated the light heavyweight title, and that Jan Blachowicz will face Magomed Ankalaev for the now-vacant title in it's place. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew 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

Alex Poatan é o novo campeão dos médios do UFC, mas ele está pronto para reinar absoluto após nocautear Israel Adesanya? O Trocação Franca está de volta e recebe Murilo Bustamante, primeiro brasileiro a conquistar o título do UFC, para analisar a luta e próximos passos de Poatan. O podcast ainda bate um papo com Larissa Pacheco e Matheus Buffa, que disputam títulos na PFL nesta sexta-feira, e traz a resposta de Rodolfo Vieira à pergunta: Gordon Ryan já é o maior da história do grappling? Alex Pereira is the new UFC middleweight champion, but is he ready for a long reign after knocking out Israel Adesanya? Trocação Franca is back, and we welcome Murilo Bustamante, the first Brazilian to hold a UFC title, to break down the fight and Pereira’s next steps. The podcast also chats with PFL title hopefuls Larissa Pacheco and Matheus Scheffel, and asks Rodolfo Vieira if Gordon Ryan has already made the case to be called the grappling GOAT. 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

Khamzat Chimaev plans to have a very busy several months, with his plans of wanting to fight Alex Pereira for the UFC middleweight title, and then fighting Colby Covington at welterweight a few months later. But is this something that could actually happen? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses Chimaev's big hopes for these two massive fights, and how they could go. Additionally, listener topics include what we know about the James Krause situation from UFC Vegas 65, Dillon Danis being scheduled to face KSI in a boxing match in January, Hasim Rahman Jr. potentially dodging a big bullet not fighting Jake Paul earlier this year, the PFL World Championship event on Friday, what fans are thankful for this year in MMA, 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

In the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer, Matt Brown and Damon Martin debate the latest topics in MMA including Khabib Nurmagomedov, the greatest lightweights of all time and Michael Chandler’s style. Brown, who is widely considered one of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, offers Chandler some advice when it comes to his style inside the octagon that has earned him a lot of bonuses and praise from UFC president Dana White but still left him with a 2-3 record in the promotion. Does Chandler need to change his style if he wants to become a UFC champion? Brown argues that Chandler can absolutely remain a fan favorite willing to put on bloody wars from now until the day he retires but if he wants to claim a UFC title, something might need to shift in his strategy for future fights. Brown also discusses Nurmagomedov’s growing legacy as a coach in mixed martial arts and the resume he’s putting together since retiring from active competition. Also this week, PFL color commentator Kenny Florian joins the show to talk about the legendary career that Jose Aldo put together and he addresses the pay problems that continue to plague the sport, particularly where the UFC is involved. Florian will also discuss Kayla Harrison’s dominance and the chances that she’ll eventually face Cris Cyborg one day. 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

Although Derrick Lewis and Serghei Spivac were unable to battle it out in the main event of UFC Vegas 65, Kennedy Nzechukwu and Ion Cutelaba got the bump up, with Nzechukwu coming through with a vicious finish to cap off the card. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee put on the matchmaking hats and attempt to figure out what is next for Nzechukwu following the biggest win of his career in the short notice main event of Saturday's card at the APEX following Derrick Lewis being forced to withdraw from the card due to an illness. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Muslim Salikhov following his brutal stoppage win over Andre Fialho, along with fellow winners Waldo Cortes-Acosta, welterweight standout Jack Della Maddalena, Charles Johnson, 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

Prior to the main card of the UFC's return to the APEX beginning, it was revealed that an illness to Derrick Lewis led to the cancellation of his scheduled main event with Serghei Spivac — which considering the weirdness of the lineup as a whole, it almost made sense in some ways. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and E. Casey Leydon react to Saturday's UFC Vegas 65 event, the news of Lewis' withdrawal and the light heavyweight bout between Kennedy Nzechukwu and Ion Cutelaba getting bumped up to the main event spot, Nzechukwu's second-round finish and post-fight interview, Jack Della Maddalena's sensational performance, Muslim Salikhov's nasty finish of Andre Fialho, Natalia Silva's spinning kick to the face of her opponent to kick off the card, James Krause's absence from the corner of Miles Johns, and much 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

Popular UFC heavyweight Derrick Lewis admits he has his back against the wall ahead of his UFC Vegas 65 main event bout with Serghei Spivak, but is it a do-or-die fight for "The Black Beast" in terms of being a contender in the division? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and E. Casey Leydon discuss the stakes for Lewis in Saturday's bout and what a win would do for the career of Spivak in the contender conversation. Additionally, topics include the new calmer Ion Cutelaba at the post weigh-in faceoffs ahead of his co-main event bout with Kennedy Nzechukwu, Jack Della Maddalena's ceiling in the welterweight division, the under the radar bouts on the card, 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

With Colby Covington keeping the next move of his fighting career close to the vest, it appears the UFC is hoping to book a huge fight between the former interim champion and Khamzat Chimaev. In the current state of the welterweight division, does Covington need that fight to earn that third crack at undisputed gold? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer whether or not Covington needs a win over Chimaev to get to a championship opportunity, or if another Leon Edwards win over Kamaru Usman in 2023 could potentially slot "Chaos" right in there. Additionally, listener topics include the UFC's bantamweight division, where Michael Chandler goes from his UFC 281 loss to Dustin Poirier, what could be next for Arnold Allen now that an interim featherweight title fight is booked at UFC 284, Derrick Lewis' chances to get back on track in the main event of UFC Vegas 65, 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 commentator Jon Anik sits down with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to recap Saturday's incredible UFC 281 event, Alex Pereira's stunning comeback finish of Israel Adesanya to win the middleweight title in the main event, Zhang Weili regaining the strawweight title, talks the fan reaction to Carla Esparza throughout the week, Dustin Poirier's third-round submission win against Michael Chandler and how "The Diamond" might be on the short list of fighters who don't need a world title, Renato Moicano's incredible promo, signing a new multi-fight deal with the UFC, and more. Additionally, Anik remembers two-time UFC title challenger Anthony Johnson. 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

Alex Pereira added to the list of 2022 UFC title challengers who were down on the scorecards heading into the fifth and final round only to come through with a shocking finish to become a world champion. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will recap Pereira's stunning fifth-round comeback TKO win over Israel Adesanya in the main event of UFC 281, what the middleweight division now looks like with Pereira on top, and if the promotion should do the immediate rematch with Adesanya. Additionally, topics include Zhang Weili's finish of Carla Esparza to regain the strawweight title, Dustin Poirier's incredible win over Michael Chandler and other storylines from this past Saturday's event, this weekend's Bellator 288 event with two title fights, Derrick Lewis' return to action at UFC Vegas 65, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and José Youngs. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow 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

After a chaotic battle with Michael Chandler in the featured bout of UFC 281 this past Saturday at Madison Square Garden, what could be next for Dustin Poirier in the lightweight division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses potential options for Poirier and how close he could be to getting another chance to fight for the UFC lightweight title. Additionally, topics include the PFL announcing that the PFL World Championship pay-per-view will cost $49.99, the potential for an Alex Pereira vs. Israel Adesanya immediate rematch, if Derrick Lewis could make another heavyweight championship run if he's victorious in the UFC Vegas 65 main event, Erin Blanchfield's ceiling after stopping Molly McCann, 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 281 has come and gone but that doesn't mean the MMA world can rest because it's a major MMA double-header this weekend with the UFC returning for UFC Vegas 65 in Las Vegas, and Bellator offering up Bellator 288 in Chicago. So with two marquee events going down, as always, the No Bets Barred boys are here to cover all the betting angles. First, co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew recap their great days at UFC 281, before hopping right into a breakdown for the big fights at UFC Vegas 65, including debating if Derrick Lewis can get his mojo back against Sergey Spivac, if Andre Fialho can make it 3-2 in 2022, and if Jack Della Maddalena will continue his impressive rise. Then the boys hop over to Bellator 288 where they make an irresponsible number of bets, including yet another All-In bet from Jed. Tune in for Episode 25 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

Alex Pereira is not only the undisputed UFC middleweight champion after beating Israel Adesanya, he is now a top-10 Pound-for-Pound fighter. But does that make sense? How can Pereira - with just eight MMA fights to his name - be higher ranked than longstanding luminaries like Charles Oliveira, Jiri Prochazka, Max Holloway, Patricio Pitbull, and Demetrious Johnson? The MMA Fightings Rankings Show is back to analyze the aftermath of UFC 281, which featured two dramatic title changes and some harsh reality checks for a litany of fighters. Host Alexander K. Lee attempts to guide the esteemed panel of Steven Marrocco, Damon Martin, and Jed Meshew as they figure out what to do with the Pound-for-Pound list after yet another stunning championship upset, ponder the fate of Dominick Reyes while running through a lengthy list of the cruelest reversals of fortune in MMA history, and then give their best guesses for a trio of Over/Under questions, including what to expect from Pereira's and Zhang Weili's championship runs. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @alexanderklee Follow Steven Marrocco @MMAFightingSM Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew 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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The UFC middleweight champion has a name, and it's Alex Pereira after a stunning fifth-round, come-from-behind knockout win over Israel Adesanya in the main event of UFC 281. While Pereira's win opens up the door to some interesting and fresh matchups, a rematch between the new champ and Adesanya would be massive, but is it the fight to make in the immediate aftermath of the UFC's return to Madison Square Garden? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective and explains why a rematch makes sense in multiple ways. Additionally, listener questions include the sad news of Anthony Johnson's passing on Sunday, Dustin Poirier's win over Michael Chandler and where he goes from UFC 281, the matchmaking of Erin Blanchfield vs. Molly McCann and why it was the right call even in hindsight, Frankie Edgar's tough retirement fight against Chris Gutierrez, 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

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns after an action-packed weekend at UFC 281 where Alex Pereira pulled off a stunning comeback to knockout Israel Adesanya to become the new middleweight champion. UFC welterweight Matt Brown joins Damon Martin on the podcast as they discuss the fallout from the event when Pereira earned a third win over Adesanya after beating him twice previously whey they were competing in kickboxing. Brown will give his thoughts on the fight and why he believes the stoppage in the fight between Pereira and Adesanya was a little bit early in his estimation. We’ll also discuss the jaw-dropping performance from Dustin Poirier and Michael Chandler as they went to war in one of the most memorable fights of 2022. Where does Poirier go next after this win and has Chandler hit his ceiling in the UFC if he’s not willing to engage in these all out wars? Plus, the podcast pays tribute to Anthony “Rumble” Johnson after his tragic death at just 38 years old while Brown looks back at the time he was scheduled to face the prolific knockout artist in his career. 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

After the shocking ending to the main event of UFC 281, it seems pretty clear that Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya will run it back in a massive middleweight championship fight after Pereira dethroned the long reigning titleholder to improve to 3-0 in their combat sports rivalry. Is that unequivocally the fight to make with the division looking like it has opened up for the first time in a long while? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what's next for Pereira and Adesanya following their memorable battle at Madison Square Garden. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for the two-time champion Zhang Weili, and the former champ Carla Esparza after Weili submitted Esparza in the co-main event, Dustin Poirier and Michael Chandler following a third-round submission win for "The Diamond" in the Fight of the Night, along with Chris Gutierrez, Dan Hooker, 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

Needing a finish heading into the fifth and final round, Alex Pereira landed his most powerful shots when he needed them the most and stunned Israel Adesanya to become the brand new UFC middleweight champion of the world to cap off a memorable UFC 281 event. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew react to Pereira's comeback win, whether or not the stoppage was too early, and discuss the potential of a massive rematch. Additionally, they talk Zhang Weili stopping Carla Esparza to regain the strawweight title, the chaotic Dustin Poirier vs. Michael Chandler fight — which was won by Poirier via a third-round submission — Frankie Edgar retiring with a devastating knockout from the perfectly timed flying knee of Chris Gutierrez, along with other notable moments from the UFC's return to Madison Square Garden in New York. 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

The history between Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira is well known ahead of their main event title clash at UFC 281. Will Saturday night be the moment for Adesanya that changes their history moving forward? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss the fascinating UFC middleweight title fight and how they see it potentially playing out. Additionally, topics include the co-main event between Carla Esparza and Zhang Weili for the strawweight championship, the MMA community not giving the champion much of a chance, the featured lightweight bout between Dustin Poirier and Michael Chandler, Frankie Edgar's final fight against Chris Gutierrez, and much 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