Islam Makhachev offers summer title fight to UFC 313 star: ‘I like this idea’

Islam Makhachev offers summer title fight to UFC 313 star: 'I like this idea'Off the back of his UFC 311 victory last weekend, Islam Makhachev has identified soon-to-return former interim titleholder, Justin…

Islam Makhachev offers summer title fight to UFC 313 star: 'I like this idea'

Off the back of his UFC 311 victory last weekend, Islam Makhachev has identified soon-to-return former interim titleholder, Justin Gaethje as an ideal opponent for him next — urging the former to return to winning ways at UFC 313 in March to secure himself a summer title shot.

Islam Makhachev, the current undisputed lightweight champion and pound-for-pound number one under the banner of the promotion, returned to action last weekend in the main event of UFC 311.

Kamaru Usman urges Islam Makhachev to move divisions and 'Whip' Belal Muhammad after UFC 311 victory

Meeting with Brasilia favorite, Renato Moicano on just a day’s notice after the withdrawal from slated opponent, Arman Tsarukyan, Russian star, Islam Makhachev stopped the former with a first round D’Arce choke submission win at the Intuit Dome in California.

Justin Gaethje offered summer title fight by Islam Makhachev

And linked with a title rematch against either the above-mentioned, Tsarukyan or former champion, Charles Oliveira, Islam Makahchev shut down a title clash with both next, instead offering Gaethje a shot at his throne should be beat Dan Hooker over five rounds at UFC 313 in two months’ time.

Islam Makhachev opens as big betting favorite to beat Ilia Topuria after UFC 311 victory

“I like this idea because I haven’t fought Justin (Gaethje) yet… I’ve already fought [Oliveira and Tsarukyan], and preparing for the same opponent is not such a big motivation,” Islam Makhachev told Ushatayka during a recent interview. “But if Gaethje shows himself well in the next fight, we can meet.”

Himself sidelined since he featured on the main card of UFC 300 last year, Arizona striker, Gaethje most recently dropped the symbolic BMF championship in a stunning fifth round buzzer-beating knockout loss to former featherweight gold holder, Max Holloway in Las Vegas.

Justin Gaethje confirms plans for UFC 313 comeback in massive fight with Kiwi star Dan Hooker

Booked to co-headline UFC 313 in March, Gaethje will take on City Kickboxing striker, Hooker — who boldly claims he is a “dangerous” opponent for him to be facing in his return to action.

“I’m a Justin Gaethje fan, and yeah, obviously appreciate him taking this fight, obviously,” Dan Hooker told Submission Radio during a recent interview. “Like, it’s a dangerous fight for him. I respect them for I respect them for accepting this fight. When I feel like there would have been easier fights for him out there. So credit credit to him and his team.”

“He’s got some beautiful counters, some beautiful leads and yeah, I think his skill is, is often underestimated by a lot of fans, which I feel like, as is mine,” Dan Hooker explained. “Yeah, it’s it’s more. Like, I know full well that it’s two fighters that in there that are either going to win or they’re going to guard on the shield, they’re going to die trying. There’s two fighters that that step in. They’re prepared to die and have accepted that and who are at peace with that. That’s why the fans are so excited for this fight and That’s why I’m excited for this flight. So it’s it’s either win or I go out swinging. That’s that’s the two ways at this end.”

BKFC’s Ben Rothwell Catches Attention Of Different Ex-UFC Heavyweight After Calling Out Francis Ngannou

Should his callout of Francis Ngannou fall on deaf ears, BKFC star Ben Rothwell looks to have at least one other high-profile option for his next fight. Rothwell has established himself as a dominant force in bare-knuckle boxing since his 17-fight tenure under the UFC banner reached its conclusion in 2021. “Big Ben” has gone […]

Should his callout of Francis Ngannou fall on deaf ears, BKFC star Ben Rothwell looks to have at least one other high-profile option for his next fight.

Rothwell has established himself as a dominant force in bare-knuckle boxing since his 17-fight tenure under the UFC banner reached its conclusion in 2021.

“Big Ben” has gone 4-0 under the BKFC banner, with every win coming via knockout. His most recent triumph was at this past weekend’s KnuckleMania V event in Philadelphia, where the 43-year-old powerhouse delivered an early Knockout of the Year contender.

With his violent 36-second KO of Mick Terrill, Rothwell captured the BKFC heavyweight title. Plenty of eyes will no doubt now be on the veteran’s next outing, and he’s setting his sights high.

During his post-fight press conference, Rothwell name-dropped a former UFC champion and the current PFL Super Fights heavyweight titleholder as a potential opponent.

“Francis Ngannou maybe,” Rothwell said. “We need to get some big names in this. I don’t know who’s on the roster, especially after tonight, that’s jumping in to fight me. They’ll say it but when it really comes down to it and I’m standing in front of you, things change.”

Whether or not that could come to fruition remains to be seen. Ngannou is tied up with the PFL and expected to explore boxing options in 2025 following battles with Tyson Fury and Anthony Joshua.

But should that rule “The Predator” out, another former UFC heavyweight is interested in the assignment.

“U sure u want the smoke @rothwellfighter lets see it then,” Mark Hunt wrote on X.

Rothwell and Hunt are familiar with one another, having shared the Octagon at UFC 135 back in 2011. “The Super Samoan” emerged victorious at the event, outpointing his American counterpart across three rounds.

While “Big Ben” has been racking up wins in BKFC, the New Zealander hasn’t competed since defeating rugby legend Sonny Bill Williams in the boxing ring three years ago. He’s remained in the headlines due to his legal dispute with the UFC.

Highlights: Alex Terrible Clobbers Opponent In BareKnuckle Debut, Bryce Hall Next?

Photo by Scott Legato/Getty Images

Is getting punched by Alexander Volkov the best base for bareknuckle boxing?
Alex Terrible — lead singer for Russian deathcore band, Slaughter to Prevail — competed in a bareknuckle box…


Marilyn Manson In Concert - Clarkston, MI
Photo by Scott Legato/Getty Images

Is getting punched by Alexander Volkov the best base for bareknuckle boxing?

Alex Terrible lead singer for Russian deathcore band, Slaughter to Prevail — competed in a bareknuckle boxing match this weekend (Sat., Jan. 25, 2025) in Yekaterinburg, Russia, for the promotion RCC Hard.

And it lasted less than one minute, with Terrible stopping his opponent, Mukhamedkhan Ospanov, with a barrage of punches.

After a few seconds of feeling out each other (while dodging a hook and jab), Terrible made easy work of his opponent as he charged him, hitting him with several punches and uppercuts, eventually sending Ospanov to the canvas.

Ospanov could not meet the 10 count … and the fight was waived off.

Watch the entire fight below:

Terrible, 31, had been teasing a bareknuckle fight for a few months and even announced that he had signed with Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) with a debut set for Dec. 2024; however, for whatever reason (possibly for a warmup fight), Terrible took this fight in RCC instead.

It’s safe to say the very popular death metal vocalist will fight in BKFC for his next outing. If everything goes to plan, he will fight social influencer-turned fighter, Bryce Hall, who won his BKFC debut in 2023 (watch highlights).

Last year, Terrible told Full Send MMA he has nothing to lose in his side quest of bareknuckle fighting.

“I just want to fight, and I have nothing to lose because I’m a musician. If they put me against a fighter and if I knock him out, good. If he knocks me out, I don’t f—king care. I just want to put on a good fight and show what I have in my heart. That’s it.”


For everything about bareknuckle boxing click here.

Paul Hughes Graciously Accepts Khabib Nurmagomedov’s Invitation to Dagestan – But on One Condition

Paul Hughes Graciously Accepts Khabib's Invitation to Dagestan - But on One ConditionKhabib Nurmagomedov might have a new student in his gym. Following a grueling five-round championship battle with Usman Nurmagomedov…

Paul Hughes Graciously Accepts Khabib's Invitation to Dagestan - But on One Condition

Khabib Nurmagomedov might have a new student in his gym. Following a grueling five-round championship battle with Usman Nurmagomedov in the PFL, Paul Hughes expressed gratitude for a gesture of respect from Khabib Nurmagomedov, who invited the Irish fighter to visit Dagestan.

Paul Hughes Responds to Khabib Nurmagomedov

The legendary former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov, extended the invitation on social media, stating: “Thank you for the fight, @paulhughesmma, and for the experience. I invite you and your whole team and family to Dagestan, any time you want. Believe me, you will like it, and your arrival will serve as a good example for many young generations.”

Paul Hughes is known for his humility and respect for his opponents. He responded graciously, saying: “Thank you, @TeamKhabib. I have great respect for you, your team, and your nation. I would be honored to take you up on this offer someday and then return the favor in Ireland. But please, only after I get to rematch Usman.”

The exchange follows their highly anticipated championship clash on January 25, 2025, in Dubai, where Usman Nurmagomedov retained the Lightweight Title in the PFL with a majority decision victory. The fight marked the final defense of a Bellator title before the organization’s integration into the PFL.

Paul Hughes Usman Nurmagomedov
2025 PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series: at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, Saturday, January, 25, 2025. (Jose Peñuela / PFL)

The bout was a technical and intense contest, with Paul Hughes showcasing sharp striking and solid takedown defense against the undefeated Dagestani champion. Nurmagomedov’s superior grappling and composure under pressure ultimately secured his victory, extending his record to an impressive 19-0. Judges scored the fight 48-46, 48-46, and 47-47 in favor of Nurmagomedov.

Paul Hughes
2025 PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series: at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, Saturday, January, 25, 2025. (Jose Peñuela / PFL)

The fight featured several dramatic moments, including point deductions for accidental groin strikes and a head clash that left Hughes bloodied. Despite falling short, Hughes earned widespread praise for his performance and immediately called for a rematch in his home of Northern Ireland.

Paul Hughes Khabib Nurmagomedov Usman Nurmagomedov 2
2025 PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series: at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, Saturday, January, 25, 2025. (Jose Peñuela / PFL)

The mutual respect between the Nurmagomedov family and Hughes highlights the sportsmanship that remains at the heart of MMA. While Hughes’ primary focus remains on earning a rematch with Usman, the prospect of visiting Dagestan adds another layer of intrigue to this rivalry. This has been considered an extension of the Ireland vs. Dagestan epic clash that began with the unforgettable rivalry between Conor McGregor and Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Paul Hughes Khabib Nurmagomedov Usman Nurmagomedov
2025 PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series: at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai, UAE, Saturday, Saturday, January, 25, 2025. (Jose Peñuela / PFL)

Video: Fans Stunned as Masaaki Noiri Shatters Opponent’s Leg with Brutal Leg Kicks

Video: Fans Stunned as Masaaki Noiri Shatters Opponent’s Leg with Brutal Leg KicksJapanese kickboxing star Masaaki Noiri delivered one of the most shocking performances of his career at ONE Championship, earning…

Video: Fans Stunned as Masaaki Noiri Shatters Opponent’s Leg with Brutal Leg Kicks

Japanese kickboxing star Masaaki Noiri delivered one of the most shocking performances of his career at ONE Championship, earning a second-round knockout victory over Shakir Al-Tekreeti in devastating fashion. Breaking his shin with low kicks leading to a knockout win.

Masaaki Noiri Breaks Opponents’ Leg With Kicks

The bout, held in Bangkok, Thailand, showcased Masaaki Noiri’s signature striking skills that have earned him titles in K-1 Kickboxing. After a competitive first round, Noiri began to target Al-Tekreeti’s legs with relentless precision. Midway through the second round, Noiri landed a thunderous kick to Al-Tekreeti’s shin, sending the Iraqi fighter stumbling for a standing ten count.

Masaaki Noiri

Moments later, another perfectly placed kick connected with the same spot, breaking Al-Tekreeti’s shin and forcing him to collapse in agony. The referee immediately waved off the fight as Al-Tekreeti signaled he could not continue.

Fans reacted to this brutal leg break KO:

“Technique, precision, power, Noiri cuts the bones. What a fight.”

“Looks like it definitely broke! Wow shin of steal.”

“Bro’s left leg was already brutalized but then his right leg fully broke. Brutal sport man hopefully he can walk again soon.”

“The way he told his corner, I knew it was broken , brutal kicks.”

Shin conditioning and bones density is real.

Masaaki Noiri 3

The win marked a triumphant moment for Masaaki Noiri, who has faced challenges transitioning to the global stage despite his illustrious career in Japan. A two-division K-1 champion and WBC Muay Thai titleholder, Noiri is renowned for his striking and finishing ability. His latest performance demonstrated why he is considered one of the most technical and dangerous fighters in the featherweight division.

Al-Tekreeti is a promising kickboxer from Baghdad, Iraq, who trains out of Pattaya, Thailand. He was taken to a nearby hospital, where it was confirmed he suffered a broken leg. Despite the setback, Al-Tekreeti has shown resilience throughout his career and is expected to work toward a comeback after recovery.

Masaaki Noiri 4

For Noiri, this victory represents a turning point in his ONE Championship journey, signaling his readiness to compete at the highest level against the world’s elite. Fans remain stunned by the brutality of the finish, with some calling it one of the most dramatic knockouts in recent memory.

Masaaki Noiri 5

Report – Rhys McKee set for return fight against Daniel Frunza at UFC Vegas 105 in April

Report - Rhys McKee set for return fight against Daniel Frunza at UFC Vegas 105 in AprilFormer Cage Warriors welterweight champion, Rhys McKee is set to snap his lengthy hiatus during his second Octagon spell…

Report - Rhys McKee set for return fight against Daniel Frunza at UFC Vegas 105 in April

Former Cage Warriors welterweight champion, Rhys McKee is set to snap his lengthy hiatus during his second Octagon spell at UFC Vegas 105, welcoming promotional newcomer, Daniel Frunza on April 5. at the Apex facility.

McKee, a former undisputed welterweight champion during his second tenure with Cage Warriors, will feature for the first time since March of last year, where he suffered a back-and-forth split decision loss against Chidi Njokuani.

Rhys McKee calls for Khamzat Chimaev rematch after UFC Paris
Mandatory Credit: Anthony Dibon

As for Frunza, the Romanian prospect enters the Octagon for the first time under the promotional banner, having landed a prior knockout win over Vadym Kutsyi on Dana White’s Contender Series back in September of last year.

Rhys McKee books return fight against Daniel Frunza at UFC Vegas 105

News of Rhys McKee’s return to action against Daniel Frunza was first reported by Eurosport reporter, Marcel Dorff on social media this evening.

Rhys McKee returns at UFC Paris against Ange Loosa following crushing loss to Khamzat Chimaev
Mandatory Credit: Jeff Bottari – Zuffa LLC

Daniel Frunza makes his UFC-debut on April 5th. He takes on former Cage Warriors & BAMMA champion Rhys McKee in Las Vegas,” Dorff posted on his X account.

In the midst of a two-fight losing skid since his second tenure in the UFC began, McKee made his return to action following an impressive series of championship fight wins with Cage Warriors, losing a close decision loss against Ange Loosa in Paris two years ago.

mckee

During his first stint with the Dana White-led promotion, Ballymena native, McKee would suffer a debut submission loss to the unbeaten middleweight star, Khamzat Chimaev on short-notice, before a decision loss to veteran contender, Alex Morono.

Winning Cage Warriors spoils back in 2022, McKee stopped Justin Burlinson with a third round knockout, before forcing a fourth round corner stoppage TKO win over veteran British favorite, Jim Wallhead in Dublin.

9-2 as a professional, CES and LFA alum, Frunza has racked up an impressive run of five straight triumphs, capped off with his most recent victory over Kutsyi last September.