Tag: MMA

Universal Studios Florida Hosts First Round of PFL World Tournament in April

Universal Studios Florida Hosts First Round of PFL World Tournament in AprilThe PFL has revealed the first four dates for its 2025 World Tournament, which will take place at Universal…

Universal Studios Florida Hosts First Round of PFL World Tournament in April

The PFL has revealed the first four dates for its 2025 World Tournament, which will take place at Universal Studios Florida in Orlando. The events are scheduled for April 3, April 11, April 18, and May 1, offering fans an opportunity to experience live MMA action on the backlot of the theme park.

PFL in 2025

The PFL World Tournament is a single-elimination competition featuring eight weight classes: Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight, Middleweight, Welterweight, Lightweight, Featherweight, Bantamweight, and Women’s Flyweight.

Sixty-four fighters from around the world will compete over five months to claim the title of PFL Tournament Champion. The format requires fighters to win three consecutive bouts to secure victory, with total prize money exceeding $20 million, including a $500,000 bonus for each champion.

The first round and semi-final matches will consist of three five-minute rounds, while the finals will feature five five-minute rounds. Notably, fighters are now permitted to use elbows during matches.

The main cards for the first four events will air as follows:

  • April 3: Live on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET
  • April 11: Live on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 11:30 p.m. ET
  • April 18: Live on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 7 p.m. ET
  • May 1: Live on ESPN2, ESPN Deportes, and ESPN+ at 10 p.m. ET

The tournament will be broadcast live in the U.S. on ESPN platforms and streamed globally in 190 countries via 20 media partners. Canadian and European audiences can watch the action on DAZN.

Additional tournament dates and the full roster of competitors will be announced soon. Tickets for these events will be available starting Wednesday, February 19.

‘And New Double Champ’: Belal Muhammad Details Plan to Dethrone Middleweight King Dricus Du Plessis

‘And New Double Champ’: Belal Muhammad Details Plan to Dethrone Middleweight King Dricus Du PlessisThe reigning UFC Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad has set his sights on an ambitious goal: becoming a two-division champion…

‘And New Double Champ’: Belal Muhammad Details Plan to Dethrone Middleweight King Dricus Du Plessis

The reigning UFC Welterweight Champion Belal Muhammad has set his sights on an ambitious goal: becoming a two-division champion by defeating UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus Du Plessis. Muhammad, known for his high fight IQ, recently outlined a detailed game plan for how he envisions a potential fight against Du Plessis unfolding.

Belal Muhammad vs. Dricus Du Plessis

‘Remember the Name’ Belal Muhammad is celebrated for his exceptional cardio, defensive skills, and ability to control fights with his wrestling and striking. Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Palestinian parents, Belal Muhammad has steadily risen through the UFC ranks since his debut in 2016 and has now captured the welterweight throne. Despite his dominance at 170 pounds, he remains confident about moving up to middleweight to challenge Du Plessis.

belal

South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis captured the UFC Middleweight Championship in January 2024 by defeating Sean Strickland and has since defended his title twice, including a submission victory over Israel Adesanya.

In a recent social media post, Muhammad described how he would dismantle Du Plessis over three rounds. He detailed scenarios involving takedowns, ground-and-pound, evasion of strikes, and even flashy moves like a flying knee. Belal Muhammad explained:

“I’d come out him with a 1-2 then he’d wing an overhand I’ll duck it change levels and take him down then he’d shrimp and get the underhook to get out but he’ll be to weak to get up so then I’ll hit him with ground and pound for the rest of round 1. Round 2 starts and I come out with a flying knee he shells up then I hit him with the zabit back trip then point and laugh at him (this makes him mad) he gets up and charges foward winging punches at me I slide out of the way with ease then hit him with a 1-2

“then he gets frustrated shoots for a takedown I defend with ease but now he’s tired and stays on his knees I kick him to the body while he’s on the ground. End of round 2. .. round 3 starts and he’s distraught he can’t hit me he can’t take me down so then he tries spinning stuff I back up at the right time and end up taking his back he lets me under chin out of frustration then I put him to sleep … and new double champ.”

The prospect of a clash between Muhammad and Du Plessis represents an intriguing storyline for fans eager to see champions test their limits. As both fighters continue their respective journeys in the UFC, only time will tell if this potential matchup becomes a reality. For now, Belal Muhammad’s bold proclamation adds another layer for this potential showdown.

Jared Cannonier vs Gregory Rodrigues – Odds and Match Preview

Jared Cannonier vs Gregory RodriguesJared Cannonier and Gregory Rodrigues are set to headline UFC Fight Night on February 15, 2025, at the UFC…

Jared Cannonier vs Gregory Rodrigues

Jared Cannonier and Gregory Rodrigues are set to headline UFC Fight Night on February 15, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. This middleweight clash carries significant stakes for both fighters, with contrasting trajectories and styles promising an exciting contest.

Jared Cannonier vs Gregory Rodrigues – Odds

The betting odds for the UFC Vegas 102 main event between Jared Cannonier and Gregory Rodrigues indicate that Rodrigues is the favorite, with odds ranging from -180 to -190, depending on the sportsbook. This means that bettors would need to wager $180 to $190 on Rodrigues to win $100. On the other hand, Cannonier is the underdog, with odds around +155 to +175, meaning a $100 bet on him would yield a profit of $155 to $175 if he wins. To play the numbers with different games check out https://www.cardplayer.com/online-casinos/best-bitcoin-casinos to game with Bitcoin.

These odds reflect the perception that Rodrigues, who is younger and on a three-fight win streak, has momentum and physical advantages, such as size. Meanwhile, Cannonier’s recent losses and age may have influenced his underdog status.

Jared Cannonier is a seasoned veteran of MMA who has competed at the highest levels. Cannonier has fought across three weight classes, heavyweight, light heavyweight, and middleweight, before settling at 185 pounds in 2018. Known for his knockout power and technical striking, he has notable wins over Sean Strickland, Marvin Vettori, and Derek Brunson. A former title challenger, Cannonier fought Israel Adesanya for the middleweight belt in 2022 but lost via decision. He enters this fight on a two-fight losing streak and is desperate to avoid the first three-fight skid of his career.

Brazil’s Gregory Rodrigues is an unranked but surging contender riding a three-fight win streak. At 32 years old, Rodrigues has built a reputation for his heavy hands and finishing ability, with recent victories over Brad Tavares and Christian Leroy Duncan. A former Dana White Contender Series participant, he has won five of his last six fights and is looking to break into the middleweight rankings with a win over Jared Cannonier.

For Cannonier, this fight is crucial to maintain his relevance in the middleweight division and stave off questions about age catching up to him. A win would reestablish him as a contender, while a loss could see him slide further down the rankings.

For ‘Robocop’ Gregory Rodrigues, this fight represents an opportunity to secure a ranking and elevate his status in the division. A victory over a proven veteran like Cannonier would solidify his position as a rising star in the middleweight division. His aggressive style often leads to exciting fights, but it can leave him vulnerable defensively. This fight marks Rodrigues’ first main event appearance, providing him a chance to prove himself against a top-tier opponent.

This matchup promises fireworks as both fighters prefer striking-heavy approaches with knockout power. With contrasting career trajectories, Cannonier fighting to stay relevant and Rodrigues aiming to break through, the stakes are high for both men.

Stipe Miocic Boldy Names Francis Ngannou “Baddest Man on the Planet” Snubbing Jon Jones

Stipe Miocic Names Francis Ngannou "Baddest Man on the Planet" Over Jon JonesStipe Miocic recently weighed in on the debate about who holds the title of “Baddest Man on the Planet”…

Stipe Miocic Names Francis Ngannou "Baddest Man on the Planet" Over Jon Jones

Stipe Miocic recently weighed in on the debate about who holds the title of “Baddest Man on the Planet” between Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou. Miocic is a former UFC heavyweight champion who acknowledged the unique strengths of both fighters but ultimately named Ngannou as the current “Baddest Man on the Planet.”

Stipe Miocic Names Francis Ngannou Over Jon Jones

Stipe Miocic’s comments come amidst ongoing fan debates about the legacies of Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou. Jones, who recently defended his UFC heavyweight title with dominant performances, has been celebrated for his longevity in MMA. Meanwhile, Francis Ngannou, who now competing in the PFL after vacating the UFC heavyweight title, remains a feared figure due to his knockout power and high-profile boxing matches.

Miocic praised Francis Ngannou for his devastating power and continuous improvement, describing him as a fighter who always comes prepared with a game plan. However, he also highlighted Jon Jones’ exceptional skills, calling him “one of the best of all time, if not the best,” and noting Jones’ intelligence. Miocic speculated that a fight between the two would be a tough matchup, with Jon Jones needing to maintain distance and utilize his grappling to succeed. On the other hand, he noted that if Ngannou landed cleanly, it could be decisive.

Francis Ngannou PFL
Photo by Tim Wheaton

Speaking to The Schmo, Stipe Miocic explained:

“Francis has great power and is getting better every fight but Jones is one of the best of all time, if not the best, he’s smart real tricky. With Francis, he always comes with a gameplan but he has thunder in his fists. It’s a tough fight, if Jon keeps the distance I think he will do well to get him down the ground but if Francis connects…all over.“

Ultimately, who is the baddest man on the planet? He answered:

“Francis Ngannou.”

Jon Jones’ legendary run in the UFC Light Heavyweight division began in 2011 when he became the youngest champion in UFC history at age 23 by defeating the legendary Mauricio ‘Shogun’ Rua. Over his two title reigns, Jones amassed a record-breaking number of title defenses, wins, and longest win streak in the division, solidifying himself as one of MMA’s all-time greats. Despite controversies and suspensions, he returned to reclaim his dominance multiple times. In 2023 after a three-year hiatus, Jones transitioned to heavyweight and captured the UFC Heavyweight Championship.

Francis Ngannou rose from humble beginnings to become one of the most feared heavyweights in MMA. After joining the UFC in 2015, Ngannou quickly climbed the ranks with devastating knockouts before claiming the UFC Heavyweight Championship in 2021 by defeating Stipe Miocic via second-round KO. He successfully defended his title against Ciryl Gane before departing the UFC for the PFL in 2023. Ngannou also ventured into boxing, facing Tyson Fury in a highly anticipated bout where he lost via controversial split decision but impressed fans by knocking Fury down.

As Stipe Miocic’s recent comments highlight, both fighters bring unique strengths to the table, leaving fans divided on who truly reigns supreme in the heavyweight landscape. The debate over who holds the title of “Baddest Man on the Planet” continues to split the MMA world.

Francis Ngannou vs. Renan Ferreira
Photo by Tim Wheaton

Watch: She Delivered the Head Kick Knockout That Shook the MMA World

Head Kick Knockout from Lany SilvaIn a jaw-dropping MMA moment, Lany Silva delivered a stunning highlight-reel knockout on February 7, 2025, when she secured…

Head Kick Knockout from Lany Silva

In a jaw-dropping MMA moment, Lany Silva delivered a stunning highlight-reel knockout on February 7, 2025, when she secured the LFA strawweight title with a walk-off head-kick knockout against Rose Conceição. The fight, held at LFA 201 in São Paulo, Brazil, marked Silva’s rise as one of the most promising young talents in mixed martial arts.

Head Kick Knockout from Lany Silva

The bout was a high-stakes encounter for both fighters. Rose Conceição entered the fight as the defending champion, having won the title in July 2023. This was her first title defense and a chance to solidify her standing in the division. For Lany Silva, it was an opportunity to claim her first major championship and potentially open doors to a UFC contract.

The fight was closely contested until the fifth round when Silva unleashed a perfectly timed left head kick that instantly knocked out Conceição at 2:54 of the final frame. The brutal finish left Conceição unconscious on the canvas as Silva calmly observed her opponent before walking off to celebrate her victory. The knockout secured Silva’s third stoppage win in her career and went viral across social media, with many calling it a “Knockout of the Year” contender.

Following her victory, Lany Silva expressed gratitude to her supporters and reflected on her journey. At just 22 years old, she has already amassed an impressive record of 7-1 and demonstrated star potential with this performance. The Brazilian fighter has since gained significant attention online, with her social media following rapidly growing as fans and analysts anticipate her next move.

This victory crowned Silva as the new LFA strawweight champion and positioned her as one of MMA’s most exciting prospects to watch in 2025.

Super Bowl LIX Sparks Opposing Reactions From UFC Veterans as Eagles Soar to Victory

Super Bowl LIX Sparks Opposing Reactions From UFC Veterans as Eagles Soar to VictoryTwo UFC veterans, Terrance McKinney and Julian Marquez, had markedly different reactions to Super Bowl LIX, which saw the…

Super Bowl LIX Sparks Opposing Reactions From UFC Veterans as Eagles Soar to Victory

Two UFC veterans, Terrance McKinney and Julian Marquez, had markedly different reactions to Super Bowl LIX, which saw the Philadelphia Eagles secure a decisive victory.

UFC Veterans Split Over Eagles’ Super Bowl Triumph

Terrance McKinney, known for his lightning-fast finishes in the Octagon, took to social media with a humorous and celebratory tone. “Philly’s defense is handing out sacks like it’s Wawa on free hoagie day. Mahomes has already been bagged up five times, and at this rate, they might start charging him a plastic bag tax,” McKinney quipped. He followed up with another post, exclaiming, “KFC tonite they fried lmfao let’s go eagles.”

On the other hand, Julian Marquez, a middleweight fighter with a penchant for exciting bouts, offered a more somber assessment. “This is a tough Super Bowl to watch. Its painful to be honest but the Eagles did exactly what they needed to do to secure a W. Hats off to Philly they are doing it,” Marquez commented.

The contrasting reactions reflect the fighters’ diverse personalities, mirroring their different approaches in the UFC. McKinney, a lightweight, is known for his aggressive style and quick finishes. He holds the record for the fastest knockout in UFC lightweight history, dispatching Matt Frevola in just seven seconds.

Marquez has built a reputation for his resilience and submission skills. Despite facing recent setbacks, including a loss to Zachary Reese on June 8, 2024, Marquez has provided fans with memorable performances, earning two “Fight of the Night” bonuses during his UFC tenure.

As the Eagles celebrated their Super Bowl victory, these UFC fighters’ reactions showcased the diverse perspectives within the MMA community, proving that even among professional athletes, sports fandom knows no bounds.