MMA Fighting

Yan Xiaonan picked up a gutsy majority decision win over Mackenzie Dern in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 61 event, snapping a two-fight skid in the process. But will she have to fight backwards in order to get back into the title picture the long way, or will she get a step up in the rankings next? 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 following the UFC's latest event at the APEX and give their thoughts on what could be next for Yan after a much-needed victory, along with what could be next for Dern following a tough setback. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Randy Brown following his co-main event decision win over Francisco Trinaldo, Sodiq Yusuff after his quick finish of Don Shainis, Raoni Barcelos, and Mike Davis — which causes quite the debate on the difference in matchmaking suggestions between the co-hosts. 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

Yan Xiaonan picked up the biggest win of her career, and had to survive some tough spots against Mackenzie Dern in the main event of UFCVegas61. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Shaheen Al-Shatti react to Yan's majority decision win and the judges' scorecards as a whole, along with Dern's performance overall from a viewer's perspective. Additionally, the panel discusses Randy Brown's win over Francisco Trinaldo in the co-main event, Mark Zuckerberg taking in the event at the UFC APEX, the bonus winners, the card not being very memorable as a whole, Chelsea Chandler and Daniel Santos picking up their first octagon wins, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun 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

With the UFC Vegas 61 headlined by Mackenzie Dern and Yan Xiaonan, and Bellator 286 headlined by a featherweight title fight between Patricio Pitbull and Adam Borics, which promotion has the better slate? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee discuss preview the stakes in the pivotal strawweight matchup between Dern and Yan, if Dern's "A+ skill" will be enough to get the win over her opponent, and the low-key banger of the promotion's return to the APEX. Additionally, they discuss Pitbull vs. Borics and the challenger's chances to pull off the upset, A.J. McKee's lightweight debut against Spike Carlyle, Aaron Pico's biggest test against Jeremy Kennedy, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jose Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Charles Oliveira is likely in the conversation for the best lightweight in UFC history with his current run, but will a win over Islam Makhachev in the main event of UFC 280 next month cement his place officially? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers that question, and gives his opinion on whether or not an Oliveira win puts him over Khabib Nurmagomedov or B.J. Penn in that conversation. Additionally, listener questions include Bo Nickal's UFC debut being set for December against Jamie Pickett, the UFC Hall of Fame, Bellator 286, ONE on Prime Video 2's promotion, Khamzat Chimaev's next move, advice for up and coming members of the MMA media, Calvin Kattar vs. Arnold Allen, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bo Nickal impressed the masses once again at Tuesday’s season finale of Dana White’s Contender Series, and then called out Khamzat Chimaev. We now know that Nickal will debut against Jamie Pickett, but did the matchmakers get his debut opponent right? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to Nickal’s quick submission win and what his future looks like in the middleweight division. Additionally, topics include Yoel Romero’s devastating KO of Melvin Manhoef at Bellator Dublin, and where the promotion should go with “Soldier of God” next, Bellator 286 this Saturday and if it is the best card of the weekend top to bottom, if the featherweight championship headliner is actually the most interesting fight on the card, UFC Vegas 61, the stakes in the main event between Mackenzie Dern and Yan Xiaonan, the event being closed off to fans and media, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the BTL championship matchup between MMA Fighting’s Jed Meshew and the returning Phoenix Carnevale. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Phoenix Carnevale: @microphonephoen 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

Bo Nickal is one of the sport's highly touted prospects, and ahead of his eventual UFC debut, how high should the promotion go in terms of his first opponent? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Nickal's incredible performance on Dana White's Contender Series on Tuesday, and whether or not he feels the UFC should throw him in against a top-15 opponent right away, or choose to build him up. Additionally, topics include the PFL's decision to put their season finale card in November on pay-per-view, the Shane Burgos vs. Marlon Moraes matchmaking and why it's not great matchmaking, the UFC's lightweight division, the matchup between Arman Tsarukyan and Damir Ismagulov, Kelvin Gastelum vs. Nassourdine Imavov being expected for the first main event of 2023 in the UFC, 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 a busy week in the world of MMA with the UFC returning for UFC Vegas 61 and Bellator putting out one of its better efforts of late with Bellator 286, and so the No Bets Barred boys are back to cover all of your gambling needs. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew get into a contentious discussion surrounding the UFC main event fight between Mackenzie Dern and Yan Xiaonan before diving into their full slate of bets which includes wagers on every single fight on the card, plus a chunk of Bellator action as well. And as an added bonus, Conner and Jed get derailed talking about their own experiences getting into fights on the mean streets of Athens, GA. 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

Rei dos penas do Bellator, Patrício Pitbull quer fazer história mais uma vez. Único brasileiro campeão duplo da história da organização, o potiguar disse ao Trocação Franca que mira repetir a façanha, agora entre os galos. No bate-papo, Pitbull apontou o próximo na fila após Adam Borics e elogiou o recém-aposentado José Aldo, revelando interesse em enfrentá-lo no MMA ou boxe. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Tabatha Ricci e Raoni Barcelos, que lutam sábado no UFC. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Bellator featherweight king Patricio Pitbull wants to make history again. Brazil’s only two-division Bellator champion, Pitbull told Trocação Franca he wants to repeat the feat at bantamweight. The 145-pound great discussed who’s next after Adam Borics and praised recently retired Jose Aldo, saying he’s still interested in facing him in MMA or boxing. The podcast also chats with Tabatha Ricci and Raoni Barcelos, who compete Saturday at UFC Vegas 61. 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

With glaring holes in the main event slots for December's UFC 282 and January's UFC 283 events currently, what fights could fill those slots — especially with so much lack of clarity in the heavyweight division? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers questions about what could headline those two PPV events, how Jon Jones factors into things, what could happen if Francis Ngannou doesn't re-sign with the UFC, and more. Additionally, listener topics include Khamzat Chimaev's next move, where Eddie Alvarez could end up after parting ways with ONE, the stacked UFC 280 lineup in October, the loaded up weekend slate with upcoming events from the UFC, Bellator, ONE, BKFC, and more, what would be one singular main card to put together from those, some of the best women's fights of all-time, 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, Bellator 286 fighters Aaron Pico and Max Rohskopf join the show. Once touted as possibly the best prospect to enter the sport of mixed martial arts, Pico faced more than a few hurdles living up to his full potential after starting his career with a 4-3 record. Nobody gave up hope on Pico but he still had to rebuild himself and now he stands on the precipice of title contention with his upcoming fight scheduled against Jeremy Kennedy. For all the wins Pico has amassed recently, is he finally ready to ascend to the top of the featherweight division and become champion? Pico addresses those expectations and he also offers some advice to another super prospect in Bo Nickal, who has been receiving similar praise early in his fight career. Also on the show this week, Max Rohskopf joins the show for the first time to preview his upcoming return to action after inking a deal to join the Bellator roster. Rohskopf is best remembered for his short stint with the UFC that ended after he wouldn’t leave his corner at the end of the second round, and he was branded a quitter before being released from the promotion. At that point, Rohskopf was done with fighting and had no intentions of ever making a return to the cage, but what changed and how did it eventually lead him to Bellator? Hear that from Rohskopf along with his own struggles with mental health and how he wants to help fight back against the stigma for other fighters seeking similar help. 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

Khamzat Chimaev is teasing a return to the middleweight division after the massive weight miss that led to the top of the UFC 279 lineup being shuffled around. Since it was the first time Chimaev has ever missed weight, is it the right decision for him to make the move up now? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Chimaev's "185" tweet, a potential matchup with Paulo Costa, and if that be his next opponent should Chimaev want to return before the end of the year. Additionally, listener questions include the many roles the staff has at MMA Fighting, Bellator Dublin, Yoel Romero's future if he defeats Melvin Manhoef, the top fights to show newer fans, what the most intriguing fights are for the remainder of the year that are on the books, Raul Rosas Jr. and Bo Nickal's potential UFC debut opponents, 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 fighters of all time, Jose Aldo. During his 18-year career, Aldo was the undisputed featherweight champion of the world for 2,405 days — second most all-time behind only the great Anderson Silva — and amassed an incredible nine title defenses. The former UFC and WEC featherweight champion’s career spanned multiple eras, establishing him as one of the all-time greats even if he had chosen to retire after UFC 200, as it was rumored he might. Instead, Aldo continued fighting and dropped down to the bantamweight division where he remained a top contender until his retirement this past weekend. Host Jed Meshew is joined by Shaheen Al-Shatti, Guilherme Cruz, Alexander K. Lee, and Steven Marrocco to remember one of the most important careers in MMA history. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Steven Marrocco @MMAFightingSM Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Guilherme Cruz @guicruzzz 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

Former UFC featherweight champion Jose Aldo is turning the page to the next chapter of his life after a stellar career inside the octagon. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to Aldo's retirement, the legacy he left behind, and the matchup that got away. Additionally, topics include Cory Sandhagen's TKO win over Cory Sandhagen in the main event of UFC Vegas 60, his path to getting to a bantamweight title shot, and where he currently sits on the totem pole, the talking points of this past Saturday's card, Bellator Dublin this Friday — which includes Benson Henderson vs. Peter Queally in the main event, along with Yoel Romero vs. Melvin Manhoef in the co-main event — and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Jose 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

Kevin Holland took to social media on Thursday to tease that he's retiring from MMA. The question remains is if he's serious about it, or not. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Holland's retirement talk and what seems to have led up to that post. Additionally, listener questions include Dana White signing 17-year-old Raul Rosas to the UFC following his dominant win on the Contender Series, Bo Nickal returning on DWCS next week and where both guys could go to start their UFC runs, what could be next for Max Holloway moving forward, Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor 2 chatter, 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 a down week for the UFC but not for the No Bets Barred boys, who are back to cover all your gambling needs. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew give a recap of their bets at UFC Vegas 60, and then do a brief rundown of their plays for this weekend's Bellator Dublin event, before spending the bulk of the show creating arguably the most important document since the Magna Carta: The Official MMA Betting Rulebook. 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

José Aldo has retired from mixed martial arts, ending a long, and legendary career. Where does the former UFC and WEC featherweight rank amongst the all-time greats? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Aldo's decision to turn the page to the next chapter of his life, reflect on his incredible career, and why he's one of the top-five best fighters of all-time. Additionally, listener questions include Aldo's final UFC fight against Merab Dvalishvili, Khamzat Chimaev's next opponent options, Paulo Costa's babyface turn over the past 10 months, what's next for Cory Sandhagen and Gregory Rodrigues following their big wins at UFC Vegas 60, 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

Former UFC title challenger Joseph Benavidez joins MMA Fighting's José Youngs on the inaugural episode of Anything But Fighting to break down his love for the cinema, reflect on some of his favorite movies growing up, discuss some of the most overrated films in history, and which films should have won Best Picture over the years. He also tries his hand at the mysterious Bucket of Questions to close out the episode. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Joseph Benavidez: @JoeJitsu 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

Rei do Rio. Campeão do Povo. Maior peso-pena da história. José Aldo se aposentou do MMA no último final de semana e o clima de nostalgia paira no ar do mundo das lutas. O Trocação Franca traz, em edição especial, o depoimento de dezenas de lutadores sobre o ex-campeão do UFC. A íntegra das quase 50 mensagens está em uma reportagem no MMAFighting.com. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. King of Rio. People’s champion. Featherweight GOAT. Jose Aldo retired from MMA this past weekend and nostalgia is in the air in the combat sports world, so Trocação Franca brings a special edition this week with dozens of fighters looking back at their favorite Jose Aldo moments. All the messages can be found on MMAFighting.com. 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

On the latest edition of The Fighter vs. The Writer, BKFC star Mike Perry and one half of the UFC Vegas 61 main event joins the show as Mackenzie Dern stops by as well Fresh off a win over Michael “Venom” Page in London, Perry will call for another huge fight as he takes aim at Nate Diaz now that he’s a free agent and able to sign anywhere he wants. Perry believes a fight against Diaz could be one of the biggest cards in all of combat sports but he wants to meet the Stockton bad boy in a bare-knuckle brawl in BKFC. Also on the show, Dern previews her upcoming fight against Yan Xiaonan as the strawweights prepare to headline the upcoming Vegas 61 card on Oct. 1. Dern will also look ahead to the title fight between Carla Esparza and Zhang Weili at UFC 281 as well as reveal who she believes is the best grappler in all of mixed martial arts today. All this plus paying tribute to Jose Aldo and much more on the latest edition of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

As if the bantamweight title conversation hasn't been confusing enough for the UFC brass, Cory Sandhagen provided a reminder to everybody on Saturday that future discussion involving the championship in one of the promotion's deepest divisions should have his name in the mix. On an all-new episode of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee give their thoughts on what should be next for Sandhagen following his fourth-round doctor's stoppage TKO win over Song Yadong in the main event of UFC Vegas 60 this past Saturday at the APEX. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Gregory Rodrigues following his second-round stoppage win over Chidi Njokuani in the co-main event, Andre Fili after earning a decision win over Bill Algeo in the featherweight featured bout, along with fellow main card winners Joe Pyfer, Rodrigo Nascimenio, Anthony Hernandez, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Cory Sandhagen got back in the win column in the main event of Saturday's UFC Vegas 60 event, although the way it happened didn't make him all that happy. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Jed Meshew react to Sandhagen's fourth-round doctor's stoppage TKO win over Song Yadong — who had a nasty gash over his eye which led to the fight being stopped — to cap off the promotion's return to the UFC APEX, discuss who could and should be next for the one-time interim title challenger, Song's ceiling at 135, and more. Additionally, the panel talks Gregory Rodrigues' nasty gash on the bridge of his nose before coming back to finish Chidi Njokuani in the co-main event, Andre Fili's hard fought win over Bill Algeo, Anthony Hernandez's continued evolution, Damon Jackson's emotional finish of Pat Sabatini, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs 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

Cory Sandhagen enters the UFC Vegas 60 main event on the heels of back-to-back losses to T.J. Dillashaw and Petr Yan. Does Sandhagen need to get his hand raised on Saturday if he hopes to fight for the undisputed UFC bantamweight title in the future? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew discuss the UFC's return to the APEX this weekend and the storylines heading into Sandhagen's five-round headliner with the surging Song Yadong, Aspen Ladd missing weight again leading to her scheduled bout with Sara McMann being cancelled, the co-main event stakes between Gregory Rodrigues and Chidi Njokuani, the low-key bangers on the slate, up and comers to watch, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The biggest fight in boxing is back! This Saturday, undisputed super middleweight champion Canelo Álvarez puts his titles on the line against Gennady Golovkin in their long-awaited trilogy bout, and MMA Fighting's José Youngs and Jed Meshew are here to get you ready for it. José and Jed break down what happened in the first two encounters between Canelo and Triple G, discuss the different circumstances heading into this third fight, and predict what they believe will take place in The Trilogy. Will the loss to Dmitry Bivol affect Canelo? Will Golovkin's age be the determining factor? Or will Canelo's forays into heavier weight classes make the difference? Listen on to find out! Follow José Youngs @JoseYoungs 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

Khamzat Chimaev is still making headlines after his massive weight miss, and dominant win over Kevin Holland at UFC 279. When Colby Covington is ready to return, and should Chimaev want to prove he can be a welterweight, the UFC should absolutely book that fight for a number of reasons. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, it's a Free-For-All Friday with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck who discusses why that should be the direction for both Covington and Chimaev, the stakes involved, and where it would make sense on the calendar should the bout be possible before the end of the year. Additionally, listener questions include Bryce Mitchell vs. Movsar Evloev being booked for Nov. 5, Tony Ferguson's future following his submission loss to Nate Diaz in the main event of UFC 279, A.J. McKee's future, Marlon Moraes heading to the PFL, 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

While Nate Diaz and Khamzat Chimaev didn't end up fighting each other as planned in the main event of UFC 279, both men find themselves in very interesting positions following this past Saturday's event in Las Vegas. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the fallout of the UFC's most recent pay-per-view event that was capped off by Diaz's submission win over Tony Ferguson in the final fight of Diaz's contract. What will Diaz's fighting future look like moving forward? In addition, the panel will talk where Chimaev will go after badly missing weight before destroying Kevin Holland in the co-main event, the two kickoff press conferences between Jake Paul and Anderson Silva and if they helped build interest for the Oct. 29 boxing match, Saturday's UFC Vegas 60 card headlined by Cory Sandhagen and Song Yadong, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Shaun Al-Shatti. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun 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

With the UFC’s next pay-per-view event just over a month away in Abu Dhabi, a lightweight champion will be crowned in the main event between Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev. While both fighters would love to have the title wrapped around their waists at the end of the card, who needs it more between the two high-level 155 pounders? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck answers questions about the pressures on Oliveira and Makhachev, along with the stakes involved long term. In addition, listener topics include the UFC’s Oct. 29 targeted headliner between Calvin Kattar and Arnold Allen, Khamzat Chimaev’s future at welterweight and middleweight, Leon Edwards’ options, where Conor McGregor fits in title conversations, rules not being enforced enough 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

What in the hell are we supposed to do with Khamzat Chimaev after his massive weight miss? Is it egregious to call Leon Edwards a top-4 pound-for-pound fighter in the world? And is it really time to stop calling Demetrious Johnson a flyweight because ONE Championship’s unorthodox weight divisions? After a crazy few weeks, the gang is back to sort through the noise on the latest edition of the MMA Fighting Rankings Show. Co-hosts Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined this month by Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to reckon with the fallout of UFC 279 and more. 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

The No Bets Barred boys are back to break down UFC Vegas 60 and the bantamweight main event bout between Cory Sandhagen and Song Yadong that takes place Saturday in Las Vegas. First co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew break down the insanity that was UFC 279 before diving into their numerous bets this weekend. Despite the lack of name value at UFC Vegas 60, Conner and Jed still end up with a number of bets, laying wagers down on 12 of the 14 fights on the card including Jed's ongoing experiment with heavyweight overs. 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

Cris Cyborg ficará livre no mercado do MMA em breve, e tem uma decisão a tomar: renovar com o Bellator, migrar para a PFL e enfrentar Kayla Harrison, ou voltar ao UFC. Em entrevista ao Trocação Franca, a curitibana contou o que pesará na decisão, mas revelou que suas próximas duas lutas serão no boxe, sem descartar a melhor do mundo na atualidade como possível rival. Na sessão Fight Week, o papo é com Gregory Robocop, Nikolas Motta e Denise Gomes, representantes brasileiros do UFC deste sábado em Las Vegas. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Cris Cyborg will become a free agent soon in MMA and has a decision to make: re-sign with Bellator, join PFL and face Kayla Harrison, or return to the UFC. In an interview with Trocação Franca, the MMA star explained what’s in her mind, but revealed her next two bouts will be in boxing — and doesn’t rule out facing the No. 1 boxer today. The Fight Week segment features UFC Vegas 60 fighters Gregory Rodrigues, Nikolas Motta and Denise Gomes. 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's talent and physical tools can't be called into question, but what transpired outside of the octagon during UFC 279 fight week can't be ignored. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on the insanity from his perspective from this past Friday heading into UFC 279 and the event itself as a whole, and answers a lot of question in regards to Chimaev's future after badly missing weight for his scheduled main event bout with Nate Diaz, and his dominant submission win of new opponent Kevin Holland on Saturday. Additionally, listener questions include thoughts on a potential Chimaev vs. Colby Covington fight, Nate Diaz's future after defeating Tony Ferguson, Li Jingliang's rising stock despite a split decision loss to Daniel Rodriguez, Jake Paul vs. Anderson Silva, and more. Also, UFC heavyweight Tanner Boser (1:35:50) joins the show to preview his UFC Vegas 60 fight with Rodrigo Nascimento, talks Chimaev's weight miss, and clarifies something he said in a recent interview in regards to fighters that use mental coaches are weak. 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 edition of The Fighter vs. The Writer, former UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley joins the show to catch up with everything he’s been doing lately including a starring role in Cobra Kai season 5. Woodley will reveal how he landed his role in the hit Netflix series and what it was like filming opposite stars like Ralph Macchio and William Zabka after he grew up watching them in films like The Karate Kid. Woodley also details how he was actually in the middle of filming Cobra Kai when he got the call to step into a short notice rematch against Jake Paul. With Paul now scheduled to face Anderson Silva in October, Woodley gives his thoughts on that matchup and why people shouldn’t count out the 25-year-old social influencer from pulling off the upset against the UFC legend. 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

Nate Diaz ended his UFC contract with his head held high, and with a Performance of the Night earning submission win in the main event of UFC 279. But was that the final time the popular competitor competes inside the octagon? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee discuss what is next for Diaz and Tony Ferguson following their welterweight headliner at UFC 279 to cap off one of the craziest fight weeks of all-time. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Khamzat Chimaev after his terrifying performance in the co-main event, Chimaev's opponent Kevin Holland, Daniel Rodriguez and Li Jingliang following their competitive featured bout, Irene Aldana and Johnny Walker after getting finishes to kick off the main 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

Nate Diaz and Khamzat Chimaev didn't end up fighting each other in the end, but both men ended their nights in the best possible way at UFC 279. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew react to Diaz's fourth-round submission win over Tony Ferguson in the main event of Saturday's card at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, and why, if that was his final UFC fight, he went out on the highest of notes. Additionally, the panel discusses Chimaev's complete destruction of Kevin Holland and whether or not his future could still be at welterweight, Daniel Rodriguez's split decision win over Li Jingliang, Irene Aldana's unique finish of Macy Chiasson, Chris Barnett's unbelievable win, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jose Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Nate Diaz is still headlining UFC 279. Other than that, everything’s changed. MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck, Shaun Al-Shatti, and Alexander K. Lee react to one of the most chaotic days in MMA history following a flurry of last-second changes to Saturday’s pay-per-view. With Diaz now fighting Tony Ferguson, what’s at stake for the two UFC legends? How has Chimaev’s stock changed over a 24-hour span that saw him brawl with his card-mates backstage then miss weight by a stunning margin of 7.5 pounds? And how just much of gangsters are Daniel Rodriguez and — particularly — Li Jingliang for rolling with the punches throughout a wacky and drama-filled week? The gang answers those questions and more after a day that will go down in MMA infamy. 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

MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Shaun Al-Shatti react to Dana White's announcement of the new top-three fights of Saturday's UFC 279 main event, headlined by Nate Diaz vs. Tony Ferguson after Khamzat Chimaev misses weight. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun 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

As everybody in the MMA community is likely aware of by now, Thursday's UFC 279 press conference was abruptly cancelled after chaos broke out backstage in Las Vegas. Both Khamzat Chimaev and Nate Diaz were allegedly involved — along with Kevin Holland — but does that change the way you look at Saturday's main event between Chimaev and Diaz? On an all-new Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck responds to questions about whether or not Chimaev may be a bit too emotional heading into the UFC 279 headliner, and if Diaz will be able to capitalize on that. Additionally, listener questions include Holland's future, and the stakes involved in the welterweight division for the winner of his fight with Daniel Rodriguez, reactions to the alleged altercations backstage, who Chimaev could face — at either 170 or 185 — next with a win over Diaz, Francis Ngannou and the heavyweight 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

Dana White described the scene as an “absolute s*** show” before the UFC 279 press conference was set to kick off, and once it did, it didn’t last very long. MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck and José Youngs — who joins from Las Vegas — react to the press conference being abruptly halted, what has been told to MMA Fighting about what may have went down backstage between Khamzat Chimaev, Kevin Holland, Nate Diaz, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jose 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

This Saturday, Nate Diaz will make the walk to the UFC octagon for the final time on his current contract. Does the popular Stockton-based fighter have another iconic moment in store? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the UFC 279 main event between Diaz and the undefeated Khamzat Chimaev, what would be next for Chimaev with a win, and what a massive upset win could do for Diaz as he enters free agency. Additionally, the panel will talk Tony Ferguson's return to welterweight against Li Jingliang on Saturday, where Ciryl Gane and Robert Whittaker go following their impressive #UFCParis wins, plus, a game of 'What Would You Rather Watch?' Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and pro fighter Pearl Gonzalez. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed K. Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Pearl Gonzalez: @PearlGonzalez 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

Tony Ferguson returns to welterweight this Saturday to face Li Jingliang, but what is he actually fighting for at this point in his career? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the co-main event matchup for Saturday's UFC 279 event and where Ferguson could go regardless of the results. Additionally, listener questions include the heavyweight title picture, Khamzat Chimaev vs. Nate Diaz, the UFC 278 payouts, fighter pay, Paulo Costa's future, Danyelle Wolf's UFC debut, what could be next for Ricky Simon following his finish of Jack Shore at UFC Long Island, UFC Paris, 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 No Bets Barred boys are back to break down UFC 279 which takes place Saturday September 10 in Las Vegas, headlined by a welterweight bout between Nate Diaz and Khamzat Chimaev, in what could be the final fight of Diaz's illustrious UFC career. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew dive deep into UFC 279, with Conner posting bets on every single main card fight, and Jed taking a pair of long shot wagers on the main event. 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

Retired UFC featherweight Chad Mendes speaks with MMA Fighting's Mike Heck about his fighting future following his successful BKFC debut in February, what it will take for him to get back in for another fight, his collaboration with Polaris RZR, Josh Emmett's place in the UFC featherweight title picture, the advice he would give Emmett if he gets the shot to face Alexander Volkanovski, Nate Diaz's final fight on his UFC contract at UFC 279 against Khamzat Chimaev and how he breaks it all down, 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

O UFC 279 agita Las Vegas neste sábado e o Trocação Franca conversa com as estrelas brasileiras do card. Johnny Walker abre o jogo sobre saúde mental e como o uso de CBD o prejudicou ao longo dos últimos anos. Norma Dumont, uma das poucas pesos-pesa do UFC, sonha desafiar Amanda Nunes pelo título. Jailton Malhadinho, o Khabib brasileiro, define categoria onde fará carreira no evento. O podcast conversa ainda com Ricardo Prasel, que disputa o título dos pesados do KSW. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda quarta-feira, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. UFC 279 is around the corner in Las Vegas and Trocação Franca chats with the Brazilian stars of the card. Johnny Walker opens up on mental health and how the use of CBD oil hurt him for three years. Norma Dumont, one of the rare female featherweights in the UFC, hopes to challenge Amanda Nunes for the title. Jailton Almeida makes a decision on which weight class he’ll compete at in the UFC. The podcast also welcomes Ricardo Prasel, who battles for the KSW heavyweight belt Saturday. 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

Nate Diaz will finish out his current UFC contract this Saturday against Khamzat Chimaev in the main event of UFC 279, but win or lose, will that be the final time Diaz steps inside the octagon? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers that question and what could be next for both guys following this weekend's PPV event. Additionally, listener topics include Diaz's new fight promotion, whether Chimaev should go up to 185 after UFC 279, Ciryl Gane's win over Tai Tuivasa and what could be next for him following UFC Paris this past weekend, Gane's back-of-the-head punch during the finishing sequence and the reactions to it, Robert Whittaker's sensational showing against Marvin Vettori in the co-main event, 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 edition of The Fighter vs. The Writer, NBA champion and former first-round pick Nick Young and Kevin Holland join the show. With his first boxing match scheduled on Saturday at the Social Gloves event in Los Angeles, Young will discuss how he got involved with the sport and his expectations after watching several other NBA players have varying levels of success when attempting this same move. Young will also address his upcoming fight against rapper Blueface and how trash talk in the fight game won’t work against him after going up against legends like Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett on the court. Also on the show, Holland previews his upcoming fight against Daniel Rodriguez at UFC 279 and how the short notice matchup came together. Holland will also look ahead to the UFC 279 main event while revealing what Nate Diaz could do in his fight against Khamzat Chimaev that would be the most “gangster” move possible. 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

Ciryl Gane is targeting a title fight, or a bout with Jon Jones following his third-round finish of Tai Tuivasa in the main event of UFC Paris on Saturday, but is that feasible with the chaotic state of the UFC's heavyweight division? 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 "Bon Gamin" after his big win in front of his hometown crowd. In addition, future matchups are discussed for Tuivasa, Robert Whittaker following his sensational performance in the co-main event, Marvin Vettori, Nassourdine Imavov, Roman Kopylov, William Gomis, Nathaniel Wood, 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

Ciryl Gane and Tai Tuivasa left it all inside the octagon during the main event of UFC Paris with the former interim heavyweight champion coming through after overcoming adversity. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew react to the incredibly chaotic battle between Gane and Tuivasa, which the hometown native earned the victory via third-round TKO. In addition, they discuss where Gane goes from the win, if he can get a title shot next, Robert Whittaker's masterclass showing against Marvin Vettori in the co-main event, if Vettori should ponder a move up to 205, Nassourdine Imavov's ceiling after his dominant decision win over Joaquin Buckley, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

Ciryl Gane will look to bounce back from his title loss to Francis Ngannou in a historic hometown main event, while Tai Tuivasa will look to defy the odds once again and potentially earn a championship opportunity in his own right. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew break down the UFC Paris heavyweight headliner between Gane and Tuivasa, discuss the stakes for both men, and who suffers more with a loss. In addition, the panel discussed the intriguing co-main event in the UFC middleweight division between Robert Whittaker and Marvin Vettori, talks of Whittaker moving up to 205, the low-key bangers, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee 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

The stakes are very high in the main event of UFC Paris, but if Tai Tuivasa pulls off the massive betting upset against Ciryl Gane, will his next fight be for a world championship? On an all-new Free-For-All Friday edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the stakes in Saturday's heavyweight headliner between Gane and Tuivasa, and where both fighters could go with a victory. In addition, listener topics include Kamaru Usman's previous title run in comparison to Tyron Woodley's, Robert Whittaker vs. Marvin Vettori in Saturday's co-main event, ONE Championship questions, the future of the UFC lightweight division following the result of Charles Oliveira vs. Islam Makhachev at UFC 280, 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

Cage Titans 55 produced a viral clip showing Kyle Pavao break the humerus of opponent Wayne Downer in a lightweight amateur bout that served as the MMA debut for both fighters. On the first installment of Inside the Highlight, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck sits down with both Pavao and Downer, along with Cage Titans president Michael Polvere to break down the submission, the aftermath of the moment, the effect it has had on both fighters, how you can help Downer with his long road to recovery, and more. You can donate to Wayne Downer’s GoFundMe to assist him in his long road to recovery here, or go to the main website and search for Wayne Downer Recovery Relief. Any amount will help towards the goal of $10,000. 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

While DAMN! They Were Good normally celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, for the 10-year anniversary of one of the biggest fiascos in UFC history, this week DAMN! will dive deep into the first fight card the UFC ever cancelled, UFC 151. UFC 151 was set to be headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Dan Henderson, but eight days before the event, Henderson informed the UFC he ruptured his MCL and would be unable to compete. The promotion scrambled to find a replacement and settled on Chael Sonnen, but Jones and his team refused the short notice fight. In the end, the UFC cancelled the event and laid the blame square upon Jones and his coach Greg Jackson, releasing a scathing press release and adding the term "Sport Killer" to the MMA lexicon. Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew 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