Tag: Ali Abdelaziz

Ali Abdelaziz: O’Malley Deserves Title Shot Once Umar Nurmagomedov Is Champion

Umar Nurmagomedov is looking increasingly likely to be the next contender for the bantamweight title that changed hands at UFC 306. Merab Dvalishvili wasn’t sold on the idea following his win over Sean O’Malley last month but with several other top contenders either booked or coming off of losses, it doesn’t look like he will […]

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Umar Nurmagomedov is looking increasingly likely to be the next contender for the bantamweight title that changed hands at UFC 306.

Merab Dvalishvili wasn’t sold on the idea following his win over Sean O’Malley last month but with several other top contenders either booked or coming off of losses, it doesn’t look like he will have much choice in the matter.

Nurmagomedov has only fought one contender in the top 15, Cory Sandhagen, meaning that his first title defense if he was to win the belt would open up a lot of opportunities. With the biggest name in the division in “Suga” returning to the role of contender, it’s not likely to be long before he’s back in a big fight even if the fighters around him in the rankings stay active.

Ali Abdelaziz Says Sean O’Malley Would Deserve To Fight Umar Nurmagomedov When He’s Champion

There’s a strong chance that O’Malley finds himself in a title fight unless the likes of Deiveson Figueiredo or Petr Yan are able to make a statement when they meet.

During a recent interview with Submission Radio, Nurmagomedov’s manager Ali Abdelaziz spoke about how O’Malley would be at the top of their priorities if he’s successful against Dvalishvili.

“Suga” has recently undergone surgery but if the timelines end up working out, which you’d imagine they will given his recent update, Abdelaziz said that O’Malley deserves this opportunity even if he is coming off a loss.

“Sean O’Malley just have a surgery. The plan was Umar beat Merab and after that Umar gives Sean O’Malley a title shot coming off a loss because I believe Sean O’Malley deserves it. He built the division, he made everybody money, why not give the guy love for making the 135 (division) exciting as it is today.”

Read also: Sean O’Malley’s Coach Called ‘Hypocrite’ For Supporting Mario Bautista’s UFC 307 Win After Bashing Merab Dvalishvili

Continue Reading Ali Abdelaziz: O’Malley Deserves Title Shot Once Umar Nurmagomedov Is Champion at MMA News.

Ankalaev’s Manager: ‘Embarrassing’ If Pereira Avoids Next Fight

Alex Pereira made it clear in his post-fight interview at UFC 307 that he has no plans to leave the light heavyweight division right now. “Poatan” has flirted with both moving up to heavyweight and returning to middleweight but said himself that competing at 205-pounds is a sweet spot for him right now. Though his […]

Continue Reading Ankalaev’s Manager: ‘Embarrassing’ If Pereira Avoids Next Fight at MMA News.

Alex Pereira made it clear in his post-fight interview at UFC 307 that he has no plans to leave the light heavyweight division right now.

“Poatan” has flirted with both moving up to heavyweight and returning to middleweight but said himself that competing at 205-pounds is a sweet spot for him right now. Though his clash with Khalil Rountree in the main event delivered an entertaining fight, many expected Magomed Ankalaev to be his opponent in Salt Lake City.

The #2-ranked contender will instead face Aleksandar Raki? at UFC 308 later this month where if he wins, there surely can be no denying him.

Ali Abdelaziz Says Magomed Ankalaev Has To Be Next For Alex Pereira

In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Ankalaev’s manager Ali Abdelaziz gave his thoughts on the current title picture at 205-pounds. He believes that Pereira’s statement on remaining at light heavyweight gives him no option but to face Ankalaev if he defeats Raki? in Abu Dhabi.

Abdelaziz also pointed to some of his other fighters that have also had to campaign for a long time in order to get their title shots. He said that like the examples he gave, Ankalaev will make up for this long period of waiting by being champion for a significant period of time.

“It would be embarrassing if he did this. He clearly said he’s not running, it would be clearly running but listen, let’s see what happens. Ankalaev needs to focus on Raki? but if I’m a champion and I believe I’m the best in the world, I’m going to fight anybody and listen, remember Islam Makhachev take him a long time to get there but when he’s there, he’s there for a long time.

Khabib, Kamaru, these guys wait for a long time to become a champion, they hang around for a while and I believe this is going to be the deal for Ankalaev.” 

Read also: Khalil Rountree Reflects On Brutal Loss To Alex Pereira At UFC 307: ‘Didn’t Win The Title But I Grew’ 

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Prominent MMA Manager Feels Dana White Has Been ‘Playing’ Media With Jon Jones P4P Talk

Renowned MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz recently asserted that he believes Dana White has been manipulating the media with his steadfast endorsement of Jon Jones’ status in the UFC pound-for-pound (P4P) rankings. White has dedicated a tremendous investment of effort in the past few months to championing Jones as the definitive leader in any conversation about […]

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Renowned MMA manager Ali Abdelaziz recently asserted that he believes Dana White has been manipulating the media with his steadfast endorsement of Jon Jones’ status in the UFC pound-for-pound (P4P) rankings.

White has dedicated a tremendous investment of effort in the past few months to championing Jones as the definitive leader in any conversation about the greatest P4P fighter in the world.

The UFC CEO has been observed passionately debating with MMA journalists at multiple press conferences, reiterating his stance that ‘Bones’ rightfully claims the pinnacle position. This assertion is based not only on Jones’ reign of dominance in the UFC’s light heavyweight division throughout his career but also on his successful ascent to the heavyweight.

Numerous voices within the MMA community have sought to challenge White’s claim by pointing to Jones’ inactivity in the Octagon, contending that reigning UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev should be recognized as the rightful leader in the rankings. However, the UFC boss maintains that Makhachev still has much to achieve and may need to wait for Jones to retire to reach that esteemed status.

Nonetheless, Makhachev’s manager, Ali Abdelaziz, argues that White’s fervent advocacy for Jones is merely a marketing strategy.

Abdelaziz Says White Is Fostering Hype For Jones vs Miocic With P4P Narrative

During a recent interview with MMA reporter Kevin Iole, Abdelaziz discussed Makhachev’s potential timeline for a return. However, the dialogue swiftly pivoted to White’s unwavering support for “Bones” as the greatest P4P fighter of all time.

The Dominance MMA founder advocated for his client, asserting that Makhachev is the rightful kingpin of the rankings while also claiming that the UFC head honcho is merely leveraging debates about Jones to promote his return to the Octagon.

“He [Makhachev] is the pound-for-pound #1 fighter in the world,” Abdelaziz said. “Dana can say whatever he wants, but Dana is one of the greatest promoters. We know Jon Jones is fighting Stipe [Miocic] next month. I don’t know if people care about this fight, but this is why Dana is the best because he knows how to rile people up…like he’s been playing with you guys [media].”

“Bones” is set to defend his undisputed title against Miocic in the main event of UFC 309, scheduled for November 16 at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This matchup marks Jones’ return to the Octagon after an injury-plagued hiatus of approximately 18 months following his victory over Ciryl Gane at UFC 285.

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‘Me When I Lie’ – Fans React To Belal Muhammad’s Manager Predicting Finish In Leon Edwards Title Fight At UFC 304

Betting on the main event of UFC 304 to go the full five rounds on July 27 likely isn’t going to offer you large returns. Both Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad have been on dominant winning streaks in the welterweight division but neither the champion nor the challenger are particularly known for finishing fights. With […]

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Betting on the main event of UFC 304 to go the full five rounds on July 27 likely isn’t going to offer you large returns.

Both Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad have been on dominant winning streaks in the welterweight division but neither the champion nor the challenger are particularly known for finishing fights.

With Edwards’ very composed and calculated striking style and Muhammad’s brand of heavy and relentless grappling, they have seven finishes between them inside the Octagon.

That being said, just under half of the Brit’s professional wins have come by stoppage, whereas Muhammad has 17 wins by decision and six finishes to his name, the last of which came against Sean Brady at UFC 280 in 2022.

Despite this track record, the challenger’s managed recently made the bold prediction that his fighter will become the new welterweight champion without the need of the championship rounds.

“@bullyb170 will stop Leon Edwards under three rounds,” Ali Abdelaziz wrote.

MMA Fans React To Ali Abdelaziz Claiming Belal Muhammad Will Finish Leon Edwards

If there is one criticism that is often thrown the way of Muhammad, it’s that he doesn’t finish enough fights or that his style isn’t the most exciting.

It’s undeniable that he is incredibly effective, but there is an argument to be made that this approach has made it harder for him to find himself in position for a title shot.

Fans reacted on social media to Abdelaziz believing that Muhammad will earn his fourth finish in the UFC against the man that he last faced in 2021.

“Belal can’t finish a sandwich.”

“Fight goes to decision is gonna be like -1000”

“Even Belal said that’s not happening”

“Me when I lie”

Continue Reading ‘Me When I Lie’ – Fans React To Belal Muhammad’s Manager Predicting Finish In Leon Edwards Title Fight At UFC 304 at MMA News.

Manager says Conor McGregor should ‘Leave the drugs alone’ if he wants Islam Makhachev fight

Replacement fight floated as Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler in jeopardy for UFC 303Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of Islam Makhachev says Conor McGregor needs to fully focus on fighting if he wants…

Replacement fight floated as Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler in jeopardy for UFC 303

Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of Islam Makhachev says Conor McGregor needs to fully focus on fighting if he wants to fight for the lightweight title again.

McGregor is scheduled to return to the Octagon on June 29 against Michael Chandler at welterweight. Although there were worries the fight would be off, as of right now, the bout is still happening.

Conor Money Floyd

Should McGregor get his hand raised, the Irishman would have massive fights looking for him. One possible fight is Islam Makhachev and Abdelaziz says the lightweight champ wouldn’t say no to a McGregor fight.

“Conor might go there and knock out Chandler in the first round,” Abdelaziz told Submission Radio. “And after that, he’s one of the biggest stars in the sport. Like him or hate him, he is. And if he tells the UFC, ‘Hey, I want a title shot, Islam want a title shot.’ That can be the next title shot. Islam’s not gonna say no to this fight. It’s a big fight, it’s a big name, it’s a lot more money.

“The guy’s a massive star,” Abdelaziz continued. “I think he’s a piece of s—, but he is a massive star. You can’t take this away from him. With the history with Khabib, and with him and with Islam, it will be all over again. It’ll be all over again and it’ll be one of the biggest fights you can make today. One thing I know about Dana White, he likes money and he likes business. That’s why the UFC is so big right now. You have Dana, you have Hunter [Campbell], you have Sean [Shelby], you have Mick [Maynard]. They are great minds, and they put on the biggest fights that can sell the most pay-per-views. Why not? Absolutely. Listen, it’s very possible.”

Conor McGregor confirms UFC 303 fight with Michael Chandler is on amid scrutiny see ya's soon

Conor McGregor enters the bout with Michael Chandler as a slight -102 underdog.

Ali Abdelaziz wonders if Conor McGregor is serious about fighting

With Conor McGregor being as rich as he is, many have wondered if the desire to train and fight is still there. That is also a question that Abdelaziz has as he wonders if McGregor is serious about fighting.

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NEWARK, NEW JERSEY – JUNE 01: Islam Makhachev of Russia reacts after his submission victory against Dustin Poirier in the UFC lightweight championship fight during the UFC 302 event at Prudential Center on June 01, 2024 in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)

“But, you know, Conor has to get off the bottle and he has to leave the drugs alone and focus,” Abdelaziz said. “And yeah, he’s definitely… the guy was a two-division champion, and he has talent. But is the hard work now there or not there anymore? You have to ask him this question.”

Conor McGregor hasn’t fought since July of 2021 when he broke his leg in the trilogy match against Dustin Poirier.

Manager compares Kayla Harrison to ‘Ronda Rousey on steroids’ ahead of UFC 300 debut: ‘She will become champion’

Manager compares Kayla Harrison to 'Ronda Rousey on steroids' ahead of UFC 300 debutAli Abdelaziz, the manager of Kayla Harrison claims the Olympic gold medalist is Ronda Rousey on steroids. Harrison is…

Manager compares Kayla Harrison to 'Ronda Rousey on steroids' ahead of UFC 300 debut

Ali Abdelaziz, the manager of Kayla Harrison claims the Olympic gold medalist is Ronda Rousey on steroids.

Harrison is set to make her UFC debut on Saturday at UFC 300 against former champion Holly Holm. It’s an intriguing matchup and heading into the bout, she is a sizeable betting favorite, as a win over Holm could secure her a title shot.

Kayla Harrison reveals mental hurdle caused doubts about making bantamweight at UFC 300
Mandatory Credit: Mike Roach – Zuffa LLC

Ultimately, Ali Abdelaziz is confident his client will get a big win over Holly Holm, as he believes Kayla Harrison’s rise will be bigger than Ronda Rousey, which is why he says Harrison is Rousey on steroids.

Ronda Rousey not interested in fighting Miesha Tate at UFC 300 plans to have another child
Mandatory Credit: Jeff Bottari – Zuffa LLC

“She will make weight and listen, at the end of the day, just tune in,” Abdelaziz said in an interview with Kevin Iole (via MMAMania).. “She will be one of the biggest stars, she does what she have to do against Holly Holm. She’s very tough, very seasonal, she’ll go there and smash her. She’ll get a title shot, become a UFC champion. We have a Ronda Rousey on steroids, that’s what we have.”

If Harrison does finish Holm it would be a statement-making win, and the odds are suggesting she will get a big win at UFC 300.

Ali Abdelaziz Not Worried About Kayla Harrison’s weight cut

However, there are some concerns about Kayla Harrison’s weight, as she is dropping down to 135lbs. But, Abdelaziz says the weight won’t be an issue at all.

“That’s the best thing overall for her life as an individual. Losing all this extra weight, feeling good about yourself, looking great,” he said. “She look like amazing and healthier. Right? She’s close to weight, she’s not far from it. She have a lot of muscles,” he added. “And people who lose weight? Water inside the muscle. People who are muscular, it’s a lot easier to lose weight than people who have fat. She’s got a great team around her, Mike Brown, a lot of other people. Everybody, don’t worry about her weight.

“Everybody using her weight as excuse to not fight her or not going to fight if she miss weight or whatever. At the end of the day, she’s a two-time Olympic champion, two-time PFL champion, never missed weight, make 145 during COVID in her room, you know what I’m saying?,” Abdelaziz continued.

If Kayla Harrison can make 135lbs and beat Holm, a title shot could very well be next.