Tag: MMA News Today

MMA News Today: Belal Muhammad Fans Shut Down Busy Road In Manchester After UFC 304, LHW Says Muhammad Mokaev Being Released Had Nothing To Do With His Fighting Style, & More

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 29, 2024, we’re taking a look at: Belal Muhammad Throws Post-Fight Celebrations In Manchester Belal Muhammad may not have had nearly as much in-arena support in Manchester as Leon Edwards but his fans rallied around […]

Continue Reading MMA News Today: Belal Muhammad Fans Shut Down Busy Road In Manchester After UFC 304, LHW Says Muhammad Mokaev Being Released Had Nothing To Do With His Fighting Style, & More at MMA News.

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 29, 2024, we’re taking a look at:

  • Muhammad gets his moment in Manchester
  • Mokaev’s conduct called into question
  • Blaydes admits he got carried away with his striking

Belal Muhammad Throws Post-Fight Celebrations In Manchester

Belal Muhammad may not have had nearly as much in-arena support in Manchester as Leon Edwards but his fans rallied around him in victory afterwards.

In the main event of UFC 304, Muhammad capitalized on his long-awaited title shot to become the welterweight champion via unanimous decision.

Before he made the trip back home, the newly crowned champion celebrated on the streets of Manchester, as he drove down the street with the title in hand.

Fans showed up to support him and blocked the busy Wilmslow Road in Rusholme on Sunday night, with Palestinian flags being waved in the crowd that gathered.

The videos posted on social media show a long backlog of cars waiting for the crowd to disperse in order to get through.

Zac Pauga Says There Is More To Muhammad Mokaev Not Being Re-Signed Than His Fighting Style

One of the most surprising stories to come out of UFC 304 was Muhammad Mokaev’s future in the UFC.

Despite beating another top flyweight contender in Manel Kape and improving his record to 13-0 at just 23 years old, Dana White announced that the promotion will not be renewing his contract now that it has concluded.

Mokaev had made comments after his fight about being told by a member of UFC staff that they didn’t want to see him realy on his heavy grappling style, if he was going to get a new deal.

White later clarified in his post-fight press conference that the decision was made due to the issues he causes outside of the Octagon, like starting brawls, rather than what he does inside it.

UFC light heavyweight contender Zac Pauga seconded this on social media, suggesting that there is more to Mokaev’s issues behind the scenes than White revealed.

“Like I said in getting tired of being the ‘inside guy’. Just know that mokaev being released had nothing to do with his fighting style, the fact that he has all these accolades and they are willing to let him walk should tell you something”

Curtis Blaydes Says He Got ‘Greedy’ At UFC 304 In Post-Fight Statement

Curtis Blaydes posted his first statement after coming up short in his first UFC title fight this past weekend in Manchester.

Blaydes looked to claim the interim heavyweight title from Tom Aspinall in a rematch that lasted just one minute, after Aspinall dropped his opponent and poured on the pressure to get the stoppage.

In a message on his Instagram story, “Razor” thanked his supporters and said that he got overzealous with his striking early on.

Blaydes was able to have success in the striking range early on but trading with the Brit didn’t appear to be the approach that he and his team had planned for.

“Sorry guys, I got greedy when I touched him early and threw out the amazing gameplan that my coaches Vinnie Lopez (and) Cody Donovan came up with that would’ve worked I’m sure of it. No excuses Tom was on point tonight I know this isn’t the end of my journey but damnit, I know I’m better than tonight’s performance. I appreciate all the support truly it’s been an eye opening experience to have so many ppl rocking with me,” Blaydes wrote.

Curtis Blaydes
Image: @razorblaydes265/Instagram

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MMA News Today: UFC 304 Fighter Reacts To ‘Unbelievable’ Replacement Matchup On A Week’s Notice, Jake Paul Trolls Mike Perry After Dishing Out Battering, & More

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 22, 2024, we’re taking a look at: Caolan Loughran Says Jake Hadley Is A Perfect Replacement Opponent At UFC 304 Just one week out from UFC 304 this Saturday, Ireland’s Caolan Loughran had his fight […]

Continue Reading MMA News Today: UFC 304 Fighter Reacts To ‘Unbelievable’ Replacement Matchup On A Week’s Notice, Jake Paul Trolls Mike Perry After Dishing Out Battering, & More at MMA News.

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 22, 2024, we’re taking a look at:

  • Loughran is happy to be fighting Hadley instead
  • Paul taunts Perry with shot-by-shot comparison
  • Durden shares gruesome post-fight medical procedure

Caolan Loughran Says Jake Hadley Is A Perfect Replacement Opponent At UFC 304

Just one week out from UFC 304 this Saturday, Ireland’s Caolan Loughran had his fight and opponent switched around on short notice.

Loughran was announced to be fighting UFC flyweight contender Jake Hadley after his previous opponent Ramon Taveras was declared injured and unable to make July 27.

Though having a chance of opponents one week out from fight night is never ideal, “The Don” is very happy with his new fight.

As well as the fact that he had been preparing to fight a southpaw which both Hadley and Taveras are, this England vs Ireland fight between two former Cage Warriors champions is sure to get the Manchester fans excited.

Loughran spoke in an interview with Violent Money TV about how this fight ended up working out pretty well in his favour after all.

“I was like f*** me, unbelievable. That’s a bigger fight domestically, going to have more buzz. He’s also a southpaw as we were preparing for. F****** let’s go, let’s do it, that’s what I was thinking.

I actually get on alright with Hadley. Fair f****** respect to him for taking the fight, I didn’t have a fight there for like a day and I don’t know what the f*** was going on. I wanted to be on this card so fighters fight innit, fair f****** play to him but like I say, I half get on with the guy but I don’t need beef this time. This fight is going to be big anyway.”    

Jake Paul Shares Comparison Photo Of Mike Perry’s Custom Chain After Stopping Him

Jake Paul added to his current winning streak this past weekend when he stopped Mike Perry in the sixth round where his size and power was simply too much for the ‘King of Violence’.

After the fight, “Platinum” tipped his hat to his opponent, putting out the following message on social media to show his appreciation to the fans for their support.

“Congrats @jakepaul , shout out to @NateDiaz209 who went 10 rounds with him. Thanks to everyone who came out.”

Paul, on the other hand, was not so humble in victory as he chose to readdress a certain aspect of the build to the fight.

Perry had worn a custom chain of Paul’s head with blood and bruises all over his face which “The Problem Child” shared after the bout next to a photo of Perry’s face being in a similar position.

VIDEO: Cody Durden Shows Himself Getting Substantial Stitches After Ruthless Loss To Bruno Silva

Cody Durden gave fight fans a glimpse into what happens once a fighter exits the Octagon following his loss this past weekend at the Apex.

Durden was stopped in the second round following a devastating uppercut from Bruno Silva which was followed up on until referee Chris Tognoni waved the fight off.

The flyweight contender was left wearing some significant damage on his face as a result and decided to shine a spotlight on a side to the game that many don’t see.

Posting on X, Durden shared a video of himself getting stitches from medical personnel during his post-fight medical.

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MMA News Today: Jon Jones Provides Update On Next Fight After Misdemeanor Charges, Charles Oliveira Raises $80,000 For Children, & More

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 19, 2024, we’re taking a look at: Jon Jones Lays Out Specific Timeline For His Return Following Misdemeanour Charges After being charged with two misdemeanours following the encounter that he had with a drug-testing agent […]

Continue Reading MMA News Today: Jon Jones Provides Update On Next Fight After Misdemeanor Charges, Charles Oliveira Raises $80,000 For Children, & More at MMA News.

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 19, 2024, we’re taking a look at:

  • Jones targets November return
  • Oliveira gives back via charity auction once again
  • Cejudo says Cortez is better than she showed

Jon Jones Lays Out Specific Timeline For His Return Following Misdemeanour Charges

After being charged with two misdemeanours following the encounter that he had with a drug-testing agent at his home, Jon Jones appears to be preparing for his return.

The UFC heavyweight champion was set to make his first title defense at UFC 295 last year in New York when facing off with Stipe Miocic.

When he withdrew due to injury, it was suspected that we could see “Bones” back one year later and that is his clear focus as of right now.

He posted the following message on X which with the specific timeframe of 16 weeks being mentioned, would schedule his return roughly for November 8th which is just three days out from being a full year since he was set to compete at UFC 295.

“Tomorrow, I’ll be 37 years old !! I’m 260 pounds 16 weeks away from fighting the most decorated heavyweight in UFC history. I feel like I’m in a great spot right before training camp ramps up. My form is far from perfect in these videos, but I’m happy with it considering the surgeries I recently had. 16 more weeks to become the beast , that’s exactly what I will do. #Champion2024.”

Charles Oliveira Raises Huge Sum For Children In Need Via Signed Glove Charity Auction

Charles Oliveira is continuing to help raise money for charity by using his own star status in Brazil to benefit others.

“Do Bronx” took part in a charity auction several months ago that was hosted by soccer star Neymar Jr. where a fan won the opportunity to get special access to his fight preparations.

The latest auction saw Real Madrid’s Vinicius Jr. take up the hosting role where a signed glove from Oliveira was up for grabs.

Through this one small act, the former UFC champion was able to raise a staggering $80,000 to go towards supporting children in need.

Henry Cejudo Critiques Tracy Cortez’s Performance Against Rose Namajunas

Tracy Cortez’s teammate Henry Cejudo believes that she had much more to show in the main event this past weekend in Denver.

Cortez stepped into the headliner on short notice to replace Maycee Barber and face Rose Namajunas, with the fight going the full five rounds.

Cejudo, who admitted that he was somewhat surprised by the way that Namajunas approached the fight, believes that Cortez didn’t have her best performance on the night.

He said on the Pound 4 Pound podcast that the replacement fighter didn’t play to her strengths enough in the fight which ended up costing her, stating that she will be back stronger after learning this lesson.

“Tracy didn’t show up, man. I just don’t know how to say it; man, that’s not the Tracy that we know. I watched the fight again, and she never once attempted the takedowns; after she attempted one takedown, that’s it, there’s no level changes involved. I talked to her on Saturday afterward and just said, ‘Hey, just keep your head up, dude. It was an experience, but I just know you’re better than that, Tracy’.”

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MMA News Today: Conor McGregor Has ‘Eyes On’ BKFC Move After Seeing Out UFC Contract, Magomed Ankalaev Talks Neutralising ‘Aggressive’ Francis Ngannou During Sparring, & More

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 18, 2024, we’re taking a look at: Conor McGregor Says Competing In BKFC Could Be An Option After UFC Run Conor McGregor has completed his first press conference for BKFC since becoming a part-owner of […]

Continue Reading MMA News Today: Conor McGregor Has ‘Eyes On’ BKFC Move After Seeing Out UFC Contract, Magomed Ankalaev Talks Neutralising ‘Aggressive’ Francis Ngannou During Sparring, & More at MMA News.

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 18, 2024, we’re taking a look at:

  • McGregor teases BKFC future
  • Ankalaev was forced to shut Ngannou down
  • Curtis doubles down on Costa call-out

Conor McGregor Says Competing In BKFC Could Be An Option After UFC Run

Conor McGregor has completed his first press conference for BKFC since becoming a part-owner of the promotion in April.

He spoke ahead of BKFC 67 where “The Notorious” seemed to suggest that part of his investment in this company could see him take off the gloves and jump in the ring.

McGregor, who is still expected to make his long-awaited UFC return later this year against Michael Chandler, told the media that he has two fights left on his current deal.

Referring to the fighters that are set to compete on October 12 in Marbella, he said that he’s not just here to talk about these athletes but potentially mix it up with them also.

“For me, I’ve a bit of business left with the Ultimate Fighting Championship, two fights left on my contract but for sure, we’ve got three lightweights up here on the deas and you know I have my eye on all of this. I’m not up here just as an owner, player-manager I’ll title myself on this one.”

Magomed Ankalaev Recalls Heated Sparring Session With Francis Ngannou

During a recent appearance on the Badaev Podcast, light heavyweight contender Magomed Ankalaev told a story about an encounter that he had with Francis Ngannou.

Ankalaev claims that the two men sparred with one another some time ago until the former UFC heavyweight champion started to become overly aggressive towards him.

He was left with no option but to try and avoid any danger by grabbing hold of his sparring partner until the end of the round.

Ankalaev also states that he believes the reason Ngannou was going so hard at him in sparring was because he had knocked out one of his friends back in 2019.

“I saw that [Ngannou] wanted to drop me. He was generally aggressive. I quickly went to his feet, put him down and held him. I was waiting for the time to run out so I could say ‘don’t come near me again’. Then we found out the reason – it turns out he is a friend of [Dalcha] Lungiambula whom I had knocked out before.”

Chris Curtis Calls To Fight Paulo Costa And Says It Will Be Much More Entertaining Than Costa’s Fight With Sean Strickland

Chris Curtis is continuing to call for a fight with former middleweight title challenger Paulo Costa for his next outing.

In a recent interview on MMA Junkie Radio, “Action Man” said that a match-up between himself and Costa would be a much more entertaining affair than Costa’s last outing against Curtis’s friend and teammate, Sean Strickland.

Curtis reflected how he studied “Borrachinha” extensively for that fight but the styles simply didn’t gel well in the co-main event of UFC 302.

He believes that he and Costa would make for a far better watch because unlike Strickland, he will be willing to stand in front of the Brazilian to trade strikes.

“I cornered Sean that fight. When he took that fight…I literally went back, watched all of the Costa fights, and I had like a freakin’ four-page bulletin report on what to do…everything that Costa does, when he does it, why I think he does it,” Curtis said. “I just think it’s a fight that I match up well with.

“Costa’s usually a really fun guy to watch but the Strickland fight was just weird for him because Sean’s a weird guy to fight,” Curtis continued. “I think me and Costa, I think we can just sit there and beat on each other until somebody falls, and I’m okay with that. Sean doesn’t want to fight that way. He’s not trying to get his head bust in. I will gladly stand in front of you and we will just swing at each other.”

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MMA News Today: Chael Sonnen Sticks Up For Jon Jones On Misdemeanor Charges, Aljamain Sterling To Make Karate Combat Debut On July 25, & More

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 16, 2024, we’re taking a look at: Chael Sonnen Questions Whether Jon Jones’ Case Has Been Over Exaggerated Jon Jones is dealing with another controversial police charge following an interaction at his house with a […]

Continue Reading MMA News Today: Chael Sonnen Sticks Up For Jon Jones On Misdemeanor Charges, Aljamain Sterling To Make Karate Combat Debut On July 25, & More at MMA News.

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For July 16, 2024, we’re taking a look at:

  • Sonnen believes Jones’ misdemeanor charges could be less serious than they appear to be
  • Sterling books grappling match on Karate Combat
  • Romero announces plans for his next fight

Chael Sonnen Questions Whether Jon Jones’ Case Has Been Over Exaggerated

Jon Jones is dealing with another controversial police charge following an interaction at his house with a drug-testing agent.

The UFC heavyweight champion has been charged with two misdemeanors where, if proven guilty, he could face fines or even jail time.

His former rival, Chael Sonnen, has some issues with the way that this process has been carried out following the initial reports from April.

During a recent YouTube video on his channel, Sonnen questioned both why the decision has taken so long based on the evidence they have and whether the case has been exaggerated with the misdemeanor charges.

“The agents came and did what they did but there is a significant difference guys, in being a jerk and being a criminal. There’s a significant difference in being rude and committing a crime and it’s annoying for me to have to read this about Jon and read that he’s got to deal with this. It’s annoying for me even if not the municipality that I live in…

“it’s annoying to me that on a double hit misdemeanor where there are not witnesses because – there’s a witness there but they’re not supporting the claim. There isn’t video cameras of everything but there is video surveillance and it doesn’t support the claim. It seems like a tough one and it still took those guys four, five, six [months], however long this is to make a decision even in this case.”

Aljamain Sterling Set To Compete on Karate Combat’s Pit Submission Series On July 25

Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling is set to make his Karate Combat debut on the Pit Submission Series.

The striking-focused promotion recently started opening up their events with several grappling bouts to kick off the show.

Sterling is set to compete on July 25 in Nashville at Karate Combat 48, where he faces Jay Jay Wilson.

“Funkmaster” has competed in several grappling matches in recent times with this being his first since he made his successful move up to featherweight with a win over Calvin Kattar at UFC 300.

The event is set to be headlined by the heavyweight title rematch between Sam Alvey and Antônio Arroyo.

Yoel Romero Says He’s Fighting Corey Anderson For The Bellator Light Heavyweight Title On October 19

Despite rumours of him making the jump to BKFC, former UFC title challenger Yoel Romero appears to be gearing up for his Bellator return.

“Soldier of God” has been inactive since his decision win over Thiago Santos in February at PFL vs Bellator and according to him, he’s now set up for a title shot.

Romero recently spoke in an interview on the Overdogs Espanol podcast where he claimed that he will be fighting Corey Anderson for the light heavyweight title on October 19 in Saudi Arabia.

The Bellator Champions Series is currently set to host events in Chicago on October 12 and Paris on November 16. While there is no event announced as of yet for Saudi Arabia, the PFL is expected to stage another pay-per-view in Riyadh this fall, with names like Francis Ngannou and Cris Cyborg expected to take part.

Perhaps Romero has leaked the date for that major show…

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