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Undefeated, All Finishes “F*ing Great, Thank You” Youssef Zalal Reaction to Facing Ilia Topuria On Short Notice

Undefeated, All Finishes "F*ing Great, Thank You" Youssef Zalal Reaction to Facing Ilia Topuria On Short Notice UFC Morocco’s Youssef Zalal faced a pivotal moment in his career during his UFC journey. In 2020, Zalal found himself…

Morocco’s Youssef Zalal faced a pivotal moment in his career during his UFC journey. In 2020, Zalal found himself up against an undefeated force, Ilia Topuria, under challenging circumstances. When Zalal’s original opponent pulled out just days before the bout, he had to quickly adapt.

Youssef Zalal vs. Ilia Topuria

“I’m in Abu Dhabi, I land, and I get a call. They’re like, ‘Yeah, your opponent pulled out,’” Zalal recalls. “I say, ‘What the fck do you mean my opponent pulled out? I’m fcking seven days away from the fight.’” The shock didn’t end there.

“They’re like, ‘Yeah, but we got you this guy,’” Zalal continues, “I said, ‘Okay, what’s his record?’ ‘Fcking 8-0 or 9-0 or some sht like that. All finishes, never seen a decision.’ And I said, ‘F*cking great. Thank you. Like, this is awesome, bro.’”

Zalal’s new opponent, Ilia Topuria, was an undefeated juggernaut. The challenge of facing someone on such short notice didn’t deter Zalal. Instead, he took the opportunity in stride.

“I go in and fight this guy, and I was like, first round, they said he’s a grappler,” Zalal explained. “And I was like, ‘Okay.’ I didn’t know this f*cker was a Greco-wrestler. That’s the only highlight you see of him—ever tossing my ass.”

Despite the sudden adjustment, Zalal faced Topuria with resilience, but the fight saw Ilia Topuria’s grappling power earn the W. The bout went the full three rounds, with Topuria’s control on the ground proving too much for Zalal to overcome, and Topuria secured the unanimous decision victory.

Topuria’s success in the division, culminating in his February 2024 UFC Featherweight Championship win against Alexander Volkanovski, has only highlighted the significance of their encounter, as both fighters’ careers have continued to rise.

Zalal’s experience against Topuria in 2020 has proven invaluable in his development. The fight may have ended in a loss for Zalal, but it propelled him towards future success. He is now on a six-fight win streak with his most victory being a submission win against Jack Shore.

Jon Jones’ Memorable 2024 Highlights: Battling Before Donald Trump

For Jon Jones, fighting in front of President-elect Donald Trump was bigger than besting the best heavyweight in mixed…

For Jon Jones, fighting in front of President-elect Donald Trump was bigger than besting the best heavyweight in mixed martial arts history.

Though he only fought once in 2024, it was another big year for the consensus GOAT punctuated by his dominant victory over Stipe Miocic at UFC 309 inside the world’s most famous arena — Madison Square Garden. On that night, Trump finished the former two-time titleholder via a third-round TKO.

But what made it all the more special for ‘Bones’ was the presence of Trump who sat cageside just days after locking up his re-election.

Immediately following the win, ‘Bones’ hopped the cage wall and handed his UFC title to Trump, much to the chagrin of some fight fans and the delight of others.

Looking back on the year, Jones expressed gratitude for another ride around the sun and those who stood by his side along the way.

“Man, 2024… what a year,” Jones wrote on X. “I’ve gotta say, this one’s been special. It’s been full of challenges, blessings, and opportunities, and I’m just beyond grateful for the ride. None of it would’ve been possible without the people who’ve been rockin’ with me through it all—my family, my team, my coaches, and, of course, all of y’all who support me every step of the way.

“This year, I leveled up in ways I never thought possible — on the mat, in the Octagon, on the screen, and most importantly, as a man and a father. That doesn’t happen without a strong foundation, and y’all have been that for me. So, from the bottom of my heart — thank you. The love and energy you give me push me to keep going and striving for greatness. And trust me when I say this — this is just the beginning. Let’s keep building. God bless!”

Jon Jones shares his biggest accomplishments of the year

‘Bones’ followed that up with a list sharing the things he was most thankful for in 2024, the first being his opportunity to fight — and win — in front of our 47th President of the United States.

Reflecting on the year

•Performed for the President: Had the honor of showcasing my skills in front of our country’s leader.
•First-Time Voter: Took part in democracy and voted for the first time ever—a major personal milestone.
•Global Traveler & Educator: Traveled to…

— Jonny Meat (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2024

“It feels amazing to look back at the last year and make a list of achievements like that,” Jones concluded. “I’m sure if I spent more time on it, I’d realize just how many things I left out. Now, I’m excited to start writing down some New Year’s resolutions and even more excited to see the list of things I accomplish after 2025.”

Jones also spent a large chunk of his year traveling to countries like Mexico, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand where he shared his expertise in MMA.

Personally, that sounds a lot cooler than fighting in front of a 34-time convicted felon, but to each their own.

Jon Jones’ Memorable 2024 Highlights: Battling Before Donald Trump

For Jon Jones, fighting in front of President-elect Donald Trump was bigger than besting the best heavyweight in mixed…

For Jon Jones, fighting in front of President-elect Donald Trump was bigger than besting the best heavyweight in mixed martial arts history.

But what made it all the more special for ‘Bones’ was the presence of Trump who sat cageside just days after locking up his re-election.

Immediately following the win, ‘Bones’ hopped the cage wall and handed his UFC title to Trump, much to the chagrin of some fight fans and the delight of others.

Looking back on the year, Jones expressed gratitude for another ride around the sun and those who stood by his side along the way.

“Man, 2024… what a year,” Jones wrote on X. “I’ve gotta say, this one’s been special. It’s been full of challenges, blessings, and opportunities, and I’m just beyond grateful for the ride. None of it would’ve been possible without the people who’ve been rockin’ with me through it all—my family, my team, my coaches, and, of course, all of y’all who support me every step of the way.

“This year, I leveled up in ways I never thought possible — on the mat, in the Octagon, on the screen, and most importantly, as a man and a father. That doesn’t happen without a strong foundation, and y’all have been that for me. So, from the bottom of my heart — thank you. The love and energy you give me push me to keep going and striving for greatness. And trust me when I say this — this is just the beginning. Let’s keep building. God bless!”

Jon Jones shares his biggest accomplishments of the year

Reflecting on the year

•Performed for the President: Had the honor of showcasing my skills in front of our country’s leader.
•First-Time Voter: Took part in democracy and voted for the first time ever—a major personal milestone.
•Global Traveler & Educator: Traveled to…

— Jonny Meat (@JonnyBones) December 31, 2024

“It feels amazing to look back at the last year and make a list of achievements like that,” Jones concluded. “I’m sure if I spent more time on it, I’d realize just how many things I left out. Now, I’m excited to start writing down some New Year’s resolutions and even more excited to see the list of things I accomplish after 2025.”

Jones also spent a large chunk of his year traveling to countries like Mexico, Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Thailand where he shared his expertise in MMA.

Personally, that sounds a lot cooler than fighting in front of a 34-time convicted felon, but to each their own.

“Go Get Married and Have Kids” – MMA Content Creator Slams Nina-Marie Daniele Over Swimsuit Video

Whether you love her or hate her, Nina-Marie Daniele always knows how to get a reaction. In recent years,…

Whether you love her or hate her, Nina-Marie Daniele always knows how to get a reaction.

In recent years, the former model has made a name for herself in the world of mixed martial arts with her unorthodox interviews and an unlikely friendship with outspoken ex-champion Sean Strickland. The former model has also become increasingly popular courtesy of her scantily-clad content on social media which often sees her sporting bikinis and showing off assets.

Obviously, there are plenty of fans online who appreciate Daniele’s non-MMA-related content, but it’s also opened her up to criticism from fighters, fans, and those who feel she is making of mockery of the opportunity she’s been given.

Recently, Daniele stirred the pot once again while showing off a two-piece article of swimwear that left little to the imaginations.

“My new year resolution is to make MMA Twitter mad with all my bikini content,” she wrote on X alongside a video clip of her modeling the new fit.

My new year resolution is to make MMA Twitter mad with all my bikini content LOL pic.twitter.com/Wfl1MK62NL

— Nina-Marie Daniele (@ninamdrama) December 31, 2024

Nina Drama’s Scantily Clad clip draws the ire of another content creator

That prompted a strong response from X user MMA Chick, a fan of the sport who has generated a strong fan following in recent years.

“My body dunks on hers and I’m not out here prostituting on social media,” she wrote. “Sad Stuff. Go get married and have kids ffs.”

It’s far from the first time Daniele’s content has drawn the ire of MMA Chick.

“Genuinely what is Nina going to do when she’s too old to be posting her boobs for interactions? If that’s what even 60% of her fans enjoy about her she’s screwed in 1-2 years,” she added.

“I used to find her funny and her interviews refreshing but now I can’t stand her after she fully c committed to the sex appeal to borderline minors route.”

“Nina Drama just BLOCKED me on Instagram for calling her ufc post tacky and saying don’t include her forcefully bouncing tits when editing Umar’s face and voice into a reel,” she wrote on December 12. “Is it that hard to be respectful to fighters? What are we doing?”

MMA Chick often uses her platform to share her love of Dagestani fighters like lightweight legend Khabib Nurmagomedov and his protege, reigning 155-pound titleholder Islam Makhachev.

She is also an outspoken conservative who often shares political content and right-wing conspiracy theories.

It’s not the first time Nina-marie Daniele has feuded with someone on social media

Daniele briefly feuded with another MMA content creator last year, The MMA Guru. In October, the Guru made a distasteful comment about the physical appearance of legit combat sports journalist Amy Kaplan ahead of UFC 307.

That prompted Daniele to deliver a fiery post directed at the “clout-chasing vermin” who has carved out a career for himself by spewing hate and delivering head-turning hot takes for cheap clicks.

Of course, The MMA Guru has a respectable following with over 75,000 followers on X and nearly 270k subscribers on YouTube. It’s unlikely that Daniele will bother snapping back at someone with little more than 6,000 followers and very little skin in the game — pun not intended.

I’m officially never beating the INDUSTRY PLANT allegations LOL.

I want to thank you guys from the bottom of my heart for voting for me! I’m so happy and overcome with joy!

Yes, I know I have haters. BUT believe me… I have way more supporters and people who love me! Whether… pic.twitter.com/gQf4OjiOYX

— Nina-Marie Daniele (@ninamdrama) December 6, 2024

Umar Nurmagomedov Unfazed by Potential Merab Dvalishvili Exit From UFC 311 Title Fight

Umar Nurmagomedov wouldn’t be surprised if Merab Dvalishvili pulled out of their clash at UFC 311. After securing a…

Umar Nurmagomedov wouldn’t be surprised if Merab Dvalishvili pulled out of their clash at UFC 311.

After securing a dominant victory over Sean O’Malley in September to claim the bantamweight title, Dvalishvili will put his gold up for grabs against Nurmagomedov, the No. 2 ranked contender, on January 18 in Los Angeles.

Almost immediately after his title-winning performance at UFC 306, ‘The Machine’ tried to discredit Nurmagomedov’s status as the next man in line, pointing at his lack of wins over top 15 opponents.

Unfortunately for Dvalishvili, he didn’t make a strong enough case and the promotion moved forward with plans to give the undefeated Dagestani his first shot at UFC gold in 2025.

During an interview with the UFC, Nurmagomedov spoke about the possibility of his opponent pulling out of the bout.

“I will not be surprised and nobody will be surprised,” Nurmagomedov said. “Even right now, I saw like commentary on Twitter, they said he will pull out, but he never pulled out before. I hope he will not and the fight is going to happen” (h/t MMA Junkie).

Umar Nurmagomedov thinks ‘The Machine’ only wants opponents he knows he can beat

Nurmagomedov goes into the co-main event clash with a perfect 18-0 record, six of those wins coming under the UFC banner. The biggest of those victories came in August when Nurmagomedov scored a decisive unanimous decision victory over Cory Sandhagen, skyrocketing him from the back of the bantamweight rankings to the second-ranked spot.

Whether or not Nurmagomedov deserves the shot he’s been given varies depending on who you’re talking to, but regardless, the Dagestani believes there is no path to victory for his Georgian opposition.

“I think he just wants to fight with a real guy he can beat,” Nurmagomedov said. “It doesn’t mean I’m really going to 100 percent go inside the cage and smash him, no. He knows other guys, he will beat. With me, it’s going to be hard. That’s why he’s trying to be a champion for a long time, and he wants to fight with O’Malley, with Petr Yan, or someone else because these guys, easy money. Me, no. For me, he has to go deep waters. With me it’s going to be a long night. I will not give him takedowns, he will not control me.

“I have good skills, striking skills, and I can make for him a lot of problems. That’s why, but when we go inside the cage, I will not think he’s scared of me. I will know that this is a man who will try to beat me, I will try to smash him, and it’s going to be a battle. What I understand is he doesn’t want to take a risky fight. He can beat me, it can happen. It’s not going to break me. I will be same Umar. Fight is fight. Everybody can lose. …If we’re talking about scared, I just think he doesn’t want to take risk, hard fight.”

UFC Star Valentina Shevchenko Joins OnlyFans: Behind-the-Scenes Access Like Never Before

The renowned UFC fighter and Women’s Flyweight Champion Valentina Shevchenko is now on OnyFans. ‘Bullet’ has started 2025 with…

The renowned UFC fighter and Women’s Flyweight Champion Valentina Shevchenko is now on OnyFans. ‘Bullet’ has started 2025 with a bold move to expand her personal brand. On New Year’s Eve 2024, Shevchenko announced via Instagram that she had joined OnlyFans, a subscription-based platform known for its exclusive content.

Valentina Shevchenko OnlyFans

For a monthly fee of $10, fans now have access to a closer look at the MMA star’s life and career. Unlike the risqué content often associated with the platform, Shevchenko’s OnlyFans account is centered on behind-the-scenes content, offering exclusive photos and videos, training footage, travel adventures, and personal moments outside the octagon.

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A post shared by Valentina Shevchenko (@bulletvalentina)

Shevchenko views the platform as a way to deepen her connection with fans, providing insights into her journey as a martial artist, traveler, and individual.

The announcement has sparked mixed reactions within the MMA community and among fans. Many have praised the move as a savvy business decision, allowing Shevchenko to monetize her global popularity. Others, however, have expressed disappointment, particularly those who see her as a role model for young girls and worry about the stigma still attached to the platform.

Shevchenko is not the first MMA star to join OnlyFans. Notable fighters like Miesha Tate, Cris Cyborg, Paige VanZant, and Bec Rawlings have also leveraged the platform for diverse purposes. While some, like VanZant, have leaned into more provocative content, others have focused on training and lifestyle updates.

Although Shevchenko’s earnings on OnlyFans are undisclosed, the financial opportunities are significant. Fighters like Paige VanZant have reported earning more in a single day on the platform than during their entire UFC careers. For Shevchenko, this move aligns with a broader trend of athletes diversifying their income streams.