Tag: ufc 307

Former Champ Cautions Alex Pereira: Don’t Overlook ‘Kickboxer Killer’ Khalil Rountree

Michael Bisping recently warned Alex Pereira, urging him not to underestimate the formidable threat that Khalil Rountree brings to their upcoming clash. “Poatan” is preparing for his third light heavyweight title defense in 2024, as he is set to square off against Rountree in the main event of UFC 307, scheduled for October 5 at […]

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Michael Bisping recently warned Alex Pereira, urging him not to underestimate the formidable threat that Khalil Rountree brings to their upcoming clash.

“Poatan” is preparing for his third light heavyweight title defense in 2024, as he is set to square off against Rountree in the main event of UFC 307, scheduled for October 5 at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Pereira has been an indomitable force since storming into the 205-pound division, kicking things off with a decisive win over Jan Blachowicz at UFC 291. His meteoric rise continued as he claimed the vacant light heavyweight title with a dominant victory over Jiri Prochazka at UFC 295.

From there, the Brazilian striking phenom wasted no time solidifying his reign, successfully defending his belt twice in just two months. His most recent triumph came with a second-round knockout of Prochazka in their rematch at UFC 303.

As for Rountree, many have raised concerns about the fight, citing “The War Horse’s” suspension for the consumption of the banned substance Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), which is set to end on September 18. Meanwhile, others contend that Magomed Ankalaev would have been a more deserving challenger for Pereira’s title.

However, “The Count” believes that Rountree possesses the complete arsenal needed to threaten Pereira’s striking-centric style…

Bisping Uncertain About Pereira’s Chances Facing Rountree

In a recent video on his YouTube channel, Bisping weighed in on ‘Poatan’s’ callout of UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis. The UFC Hall of Famer was quick to point out that Pereira has a more immediate challenge looming in the form of Rountree, one he can’t afford to overlook.

“He’s the light heavyweight champion of the world,” Bisping said. “Being the light heavyweight champion comes with some responsibility. Now, as I said, first and foremost, number one, he’s got people to fight already—he’s fighting Khalil Rountree. You cannot look past killer Khalil. He’s the kickboxer killer, he really is. Think about this: he beat Gokhan Saki, a very good kickboxer who transitioned to MMA, and Dustin Jacoby, another excellent Glory kickboxer who moved to MMA. Could he do the same to Alex Pereira? I don’t know—it’s a tough ask.

Widely regarded as one of the most dangerous strikers in MMA, Pereira’s legacy as a two-division Glory Kickboxing champion strikes fear into opponents. While conventional wisdom suggests that wrestling is the blueprint to topple him, Rountree sees things differently.

Though Rountree doesn’t dispute the wrestling strategy, he’s made it clear that he wants to keep the fight standing and deliver a striking masterclass.

Continue Reading Former Champ Cautions Alex Pereira: Don’t Overlook ‘Kickboxer Killer’ Khalil Rountree at MMA News.

Kayla Harrison warns ‘Fat and happy’ Amanda Nunes for ‘Talking sh*t’ about ATT’

Kayla Harrison warns 'Fat and happy' Amanda Nunes for 'Talking sh*t' about ATT'Despite being booked for her sophomore outing in the Octagon later this year, former two-time PFL tournament victor, Kayla…

Kayla Harrison warns 'Fat and happy' Amanda Nunes for 'Talking sh*t' about ATT'

Despite being booked for her sophomore outing in the Octagon later this year, former two-time PFL tournament victor, Kayla Harrison has suggested a further grudge match with former two-weight champion, Amanda Nunes — labelling the Brazilian as “fat and happy.

Harrison, who currently holds the number three rank in the official bantamweight rankings, is slated to feature on the main card of UFC 307 at the beginning of October, taking on perennial contender, Ketlen Vieira in a title-eliminator bout.

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Making her long-anticipated debut at 135lbs as well as her first walk in the promotion to boot earlier this year on the preliminary card of UFC 300 back in April, Ohio native, Harrison turned in a dominant second round rear-naked choke submission win over former champion, Holly Holm.

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Kayla Harrison still chasing grudge fight with former American Top Team star, Amanda Nunes

And linked with a potential title grudge fight with former American Top Team stablemate, Nunes during the Bahia star’s reign as two-weight champion, Harrison is not giving up on a potential fight for supremacy in the future.

Kayla Harrison UFC

“I didn’t call Amanda (Nunes) out because Amanda’s retired, you know?” Kayla Harrison told Grind City Media. “I didn’t wanna be that girl that’s like calling out old people, retired people, like people who are fat and happy sitting on the couch. I’m happy for her. I think she also struggles to not be in the limelight still. “

“So, I think when I had my moment, maybe she needed to come in, which is fine and I have no beef with Amanda,” Kayla Harrison explained. “Listen, the only problem I have with Amanda is she talks sh*t about ATT — like, personally, I think she’s great, but don’t talk sh*t about my team.”

Kayla Harrison Vows to Take UFC 307 Fight on 30-Second Notice: ‘I’ll Put an Elbow Through Julianna Peña’s Skull’

Kayla Harrison, Julianna PenaRising UFC bantamweight contender Kayla Harrison is ready to fight for a world championship at UFC 307 if the…

Kayla Harrison, Julianna Pena

Rising UFC bantamweight contender Kayla Harrison is ready to fight for a world championship at UFC 307 if the opportunity presents itself.

Harrison will make her second UFC Octagon appearance against Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307 next month. She returns to the cage after a dominant win over former UFC titleholder Holly Holm at UFC 300.

Harrison’s UFC arrival from the PFL was one of the top storylines of 2024. After successfully making weight at UFC 300, and putting on a standout performance, she’s on the verge of a potential title shot.

Harrison’s chance at UFC gold will have to wait a little longer as UFC bantamweight champion Raquel Pennington faces Julianna Peña in the UFC 307 co-main. But, Harrison has had bad blood with both fighters in recent months, especially after Peña accused her of using performance enhancers.

Harrison is willing to fight whoever for a UFC world title, but if Peña was the option, the former PFL superstar sees it as the preferred path to glory.

Kayla Harrison willingly accepts UFC 307 backup role

In a recent interview with Grind City Media, Harrison was asked about potentially serving as the backup fighter for the UFC 307 co-main event.

“One of those b****es get sick or hurt or injured, I will take that fight on 30 seconds’ notice,” Harrison said. “To have a preference would mean I have an emotion… I don’t care. I really do not car?! The goal is the belt. But, if we’re talking about Kayla the psychopath, of course, I would rather put an elbow through Julianna’s skull than Raquel’s. Juliana’s face is annoying, of course I would pick that face!” (h/t SportsKeeda)

Harrison vs. Vieira is a potential No.1 contender fight at UFC 307. First thing’s first as Vieira is a tough opponent for Harrison after defeating Pannie Kianzad last year.

Peña earned the UFC bantamweight title shot despite a multi-year hiatus due to injury. She was supposed to complete her trilogy with Amanda Nunes at UFC 289 last year before withdrawing on weeks’ notice.

A win over Vieira should be enough for Harrison to secure her desired UFC title shot. If Peña is the woman standing in her way, she’s ready to make her pay for her critical allegations.

Former Khalil Rountree Training Partner Predicts First-Round Knockout For ‘Guy Of The Moment’ Alex Pereira

The main event of UFC 307 is sure to be an exciting contest while it lasts as knockout artists compete for the light heavyweight title in Salt Lake City. Many were surprised to see Khalil Rountree get the next shot at Alex Pereira’s title but in some ways, the match-up speaks for itself. A lot […]

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The main event of UFC 307 is sure to be an exciting contest while it lasts as knockout artists compete for the light heavyweight title in Salt Lake City.

Many were surprised to see Khalil Rountree get the next shot at Alex Pereira’s title but in some ways, the match-up speaks for itself.

A lot is going to be made from now up to October 5 about Rountree’s comments regarding his willingness to stand and strike with the former GLORY kickboxer.

Despite rating his skills as a fighter and his conduct as a person, a former training partner of his isn’t sure that he can hang in there against “Poatan”.

Carlos Prates Can’t See How Khalil Rountree Will Compete With Alex Pereira On The Feet

In a recent interview with Sherdog.com, breakout welterweight Carlos Prates gave his thoughts on the main event clash at 205 pounds.

As someone who has spent some time in the company of Rountree, he was able to give an educated prediction for this fight.

Prates, like many, simply doesn’t believe that Rountree will be able to have success when striking with Pereira, even if he has been very effective on the feet.

The 170-pounder picked out Magomed Ankalaev, who many expected would be next for the title shot, as the only fighter that might be able to cause Pereira some problems, likely due to his grappling game.

“To be honest, I train before with Khalil Rountree. He’s a nice guy, he’s a good fighter but I don’t think he can fight with ‘Poatan’. ‘Poatan’ is a different level of striking. I also see an interview of Khalil, he saying he have no plans to try take down so I think he, the first round, ‘Poatan’ gonna knock him out and that’s it. In light heavyweight, maybe Ankalaev can fight good against him but that’s it. Other guys, I don’t think they win the fight against ‘Poatan’. now ‘Poatan’ is the guy of the moment, the guy of the UFC right now.”

Read also: Khalil Rountree Receives Lighter Sentence After Self-Reporting PED Usage

Continue Reading Former Khalil Rountree Training Partner Predicts First-Round Knockout For ‘Guy Of The Moment’ Alex Pereira at MMA News.

Khalil Rountree cleared for UFC 307 after reduced sentence for self-Reported PED violation

Khalil Rountree cleared for UFC 307 after reduced sentence for self-Reported PED violationSurging light heavyweight knockout artist, Khalil Rountree has been cleared to officially compete at UFC 307 at the beginning…

Khalil Rountree cleared for UFC 307 after reduced sentence for self-Reported PED violation

Surging light heavyweight knockout artist, Khalil Rountree has been cleared to officially compete at UFC 307 at the beginning of October, challenging undisputed champion, Alex Pereira in Salt Lake City, after he was cleared following a recent anti-doping violation.

Rountree, the current number eight ranked light heavyweight divisional contender, has been sidelined since he featured back in December of last year, landing an eventual third round knockout win over former title challenger, Anthony Smith at the UFC Apex facility.

Chael Sonnen claims Khalil Rountree easily 'Walks through' Alex Pereira in UFC 307 title fight

As for Sao Paulo native, Pereira, the former middleweight gold holder and current light heavyweight kingpin, most recently landed his second consecutive defence of the 205lbs crown back in June at UFC 303, felling Jiri Prochazka with a stunning second round high-kick knockout win during International Fight Week.

And hit with an anti-doping violation earlier this summer, Rountree was notified by the CSAD that he had bene hit with a two-month retroactive suspension stemming from May, after he tested positive for banned substances, 5a-androstanediol, 5b-androstanediol and androsterone, of an exogenous origin.

Khalil Rountree hit with two month suspension after testing positive for DHEA ahead of UFC 303
Mandatory Credit: Zuffa LLC

Khalil Rountree clear to fight Alex Pereira at UFC 307

However, this week, Rountree was hit with a four-month retroactive suspension which expires on September 18. — and is now free to compete against former two-weight champion, Pereira at UFC 307 in Salt Lake City.

Khalil Rountree stops Anthony Smith with brutal KO win at UFC Vegas 83 highlights

“Khalil Rountree Jr. is now clear for his #UFC307 title fight after receiving a four-and-a-half month suspension that terminates on Sept. 18 and prosecution fees of $157 after previously self-reporting accidental ingestion of a banned substance,” John Morgan posted on his X account.

Shavkat Rakhmonov Trusts UFC’s Meritocracy To Prevent Conor McGregor Title Shot Hijack, Reveals Belal Muhammad Turned Down UFC 307 Date

Shavkat Rakhmonov hasn’t put a foot wrong during his ascent up the welterweight ladder towards a title shot. With a undefeated record and all of his wins coming via finish, the 170-pound contender appears to be set up to challenge Belal Muhammad for the belt next time out. unless something unexpected occurs. The UFC has […]

Continue Reading Shavkat Rakhmonov Trusts UFC’s Meritocracy To Prevent Conor McGregor Title Shot Hijack, Reveals Belal Muhammad Turned Down UFC 307 Date at MMA News.

Shavkat Rakhmonov hasn’t put a foot wrong during his ascent up the welterweight ladder towards a title shot.

With a undefeated record and all of his wins coming via finish, the 170-pound contender appears to be set up to challenge Belal Muhammad for the belt next time out. unless something unexpected occurs.

The UFC has been known to temporarily swerve the rankings if it means putting something big together and when you’re talking big in MMA, there’s no one larger than Conor McGregor.

Despite there being no rescheduled date for his welterweight return against Michael Chandler, “The Notorious” returning with a win could completely change the top of the weight class.

Rakhmonov spoke in a recent interview with MMA Fighting about how he believes the promotion will do right by him even in the instance that “The Mac” is back in the mix.

“He’s been getting ready to fight a long time but wasn’t able to do that yet so in my head, I don’t even think about him winning this one fight in three years is going to do something. I understand he’s a big star but in my head, I don’t see it being possible. I believe UFC is the best and the most fair organization so I believe they’re gonna do everything right.”

Shavkat Rakhmonov Reveals That Belal Muhammad Turned Down UFC 307 Title Fight

Though there has been some debate over whether Rakhmonov will definitely be the next title challenger for Muhammad, the contender answered this question all by himself.

He revealed during the same interview that he has already been offered the title shot but it didn’t come to fruition due to the champion not being able to make a 70-day turnaround to fight at elevation in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Alex Pereira will be headlining UFC 307 instead, which always seemed to be an optimistic target for Muhammad after he won the belt at the end of July.

“Yeah, actually I had already been offered to fight Belal and I accepted the fight against Belal but unfortunately, he declined to fight me due to the timing issues, he wasn’t ready to defend his belt on that time. So, we’ll see what’s gonna happen and when he’s gonna be ready so I will be able to fight him. Before he became a champion and after he won the belt, he said he’s gonna be an active champion and he will defend his belt more often but at the moment, he isn’t backing up what he said so let’s see what’s going to happen, when he’s going to be ready to fight me.”

Read also: Khalil Rountree Says He Would Fire His Coaches If They Insisted He Grapple Alex Pereira

Continue Reading Shavkat Rakhmonov Trusts UFC’s Meritocracy To Prevent Conor McGregor Title Shot Hijack, Reveals Belal Muhammad Turned Down UFC 307 Date at MMA News.