Tag: UFC 308

Alex Pereira Defends UFC Against Backlash To Khalil Rountree Title Shot: ‘The Way Ankalaev Has Been Acting…’

Alex Pereira has taken to playing defense on behalf of the UFC following the announcement of his next title defense. In the days prior to UFC 305, UFC CEO Dana White officially announced UFC 307 on Oct. 5 in Salt Lake City, with Alex Pereira defending his UFC light heavyweight championship in the main event […]

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Alex Pereira has taken to playing defense on behalf of the UFC following the announcement of his next title defense.

In the days prior to UFC 305, UFC CEO Dana White officially announced UFC 307 on Oct. 5 in Salt Lake City, with Alex Pereira defending his UFC light heavyweight championship in the main event against Khalil Rountree.

The UFC was met with backlash over the selection of Rountree as the title challenger. “The War Horse” has won five straight and has Performance of the Night bonuses in three of his last four wins. Rountree, however, is only ranked #8, coming off back-to-back finishes of Chris Daukaus and Anthony Smith.

Many were instead clamoring and believing that the next challenger would be Magomed Ankalaev, who will instead face Aleksandar Raki? at UFC 308 later that month. The Russian, ranked #2 at light heavyweight, is coming off a huge knockout of Johnny Walker from the start of 2024.

The decision to pick Rountree over Ankalaev has left many feeling that the UFC and CEO Dana White still hold a grudge against him for the UFC 282 light heavyweight title fight with Jan B?achowicz that ended in a draw. That was despite many feeling Ankalaev deserved the nod that night.

In a new YouTube video, however, Pereira claimed that while he also hoped for a fight with Ankalaev, the Dagestani does not want to fight him.

“I always wanted to fight against Ankalaev,” Pereira said via translation. “I threw that to the organization, left it very clear, but Ankalaev didn’t want to fight against me. I don’t know the reason — if it was the location, if he just didn’t want to.

“He isn’t the champion; he can’t pick anything. I think it’s the opportunity that shows up; he didn’t want it. He has his reasoning. I don’t know what it is,” Pereira continued. “Came to tell you guys, I’m not scared of anyone, and everyone knows my history.

Alex Pereira Claims Magomed Ankalaev Refused To Fight Him, Promises Striking War With Khalil Rountree

Pereira added that the way Ankalaev is acting, in his mind, could result in him not taking the fight with Raki? seriously and costing himself an eventual title shot.

“Ankalaev is talking about Ji?í (Procházka), saying he is a false fighter, that he isn’t good since he lost two times to me. Everyone knows my story, seen my fights, not just UFC but also in (GLORY) Kickboxing, what I did to my opponents. He is taking these two fights to talk bad about the guy. I think Ankalaev has to be very careful with Raki?. The way Ankalaev has been acting his last fights, no one likes it. Fight was a tie, everyone saw it.

“I think he should watch out for Raki?. He is talking a lot about me, he is going to knock me out and all that. It’s what he says, but at the time, we’ll see if that’s what it is. But I think he should watch out with this fight. (It’s a) very dangerous fight for him; maintain focus on this fight because he is getting a tough opponent.”

Pereira added that despite Rountree’s ranking, the UFC thinks it’s the best matchup stylistically and that he is confident they will put on an entertaining performance.

Pereira, furthermore, pointed out his own meteoric rise to the top of the UFC as reason people should not count Rountree out.

“I think he is a guy showing work,” Pereira said. “It is going to be a good fight for us both. We both like to strike. Not just good for us, but for who is watching. Like I said, I thought it was going to be Ankalaev, but I think the organization sees it as a guy who will give a good fight. They are doing all this for you guys, to please you guys. Same way how I wasn’t ranked. Things happen very fast; look at what you guys get whenever I fight.

“So I think they are thinking the same thing for Khalil, giving him this opportunity. Ranking doesn’t matter. What matters is the work he has been doing, giving a show. I think it will be a good fight.”

Continue Reading Alex Pereira Defends UFC Against Backlash To Khalil Rountree Title Shot: ‘The Way Ankalaev Has Been Acting…’ at MMA News.

Chael Sonnen Tells Fans To Hold Their Horses On Seeing Magomed Ankalaev As Top Light Heavyweight Contender: ‘Raki? Is That Damn Good!’

The UFC’s light heavyweight division has been unpredictable as of late after two big matchups were put together that left some questions. Magomed Ankalaev has been pushing to face champion Alex Pereira for a long time now, but in order to get his second shot at the title, he will need to get past Aleksandar […]

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The UFC’s light heavyweight division has been unpredictable as of late after two big matchups were put together that left some questions.

Magomed Ankalaev has been pushing to face champion Alex Pereira for a long time now, but in order to get his second shot at the title, he will need to get past Aleksandar Raki? at UFC 308.

Meanwhile, Khalil Rountree will leapfrog both him and the majority of the top 10 to face “Poatan” at UFC 307 in an exciting clash of styles that plenty have suggested is premature.

Many will be expecting Ankalaev to come through yet another light heavyweight contender and continue to call for his shot, but Chael Sonnen believes some may be getting carried away…

Sonnen Warns Fans Not To Underestimate Raki?’s Chances Against Ankalaev

During a recent YouTube video, Sonnen spoke about what appears to be a number one contenders’ clash at 205 pounds that is set for October 26.

Not only were fans surprised to see Ankalaev not securing his date with the champion, many were puzzled by the decision to book him against Raki?. Whilst he is a top five contender in the division, he’s coming off of a loss in another title eliminator when he was stopped by Ji?í Procházka at UFC 300.

Sonnen stated that although this could be the final hurdle for Ankalaev to overcome, it can’t be overlooked how big of an opportunity this is for his opponent.

“Ankalaev, clearly the number one contender, at least according to you guys. And you know what? I do have a little bit of a problem with that. I’s not a huge problem but I do have just a little one,” Sonnen said. “Which is Raki? is that damn good. You got to understand, Raki? did not get a world title fight — well neither did Ankalaev, but Raki? did find himself in the next best thing.

“He’s in a number one contenders’ match. That is quite literally the next best thing that you could get to a title fight and he found himself there coming off of a loss. As a matter of fact, he found himself there coming off of a stoppage loss. As a matter of fact, finding himself in this spot actually moves him in front of the guy that he suffered the loss to in Procházka,” Sonnen continued. “I’m only telling you this because that’s how good Raki? is and a lot of people have forgot.”

Continue Reading Chael Sonnen Tells Fans To Hold Their Horses On Seeing Magomed Ankalaev As Top Light Heavyweight Contender: ‘Raki? Is That Damn Good!’ at MMA News.

Sean Strickland’s Coach Names The Type Of Fighter Who Can Be Khamzat Chimaev’s ‘Kryptonite’

Sean Strickland’s coach, Eric Nicksick, recently shared his insights on a tactical approach that could be key to conquering Khamzat Chimaev in a fight. Chimaev is poised to make his highly anticipated return in a five-round middleweight showdown against Robert Whittaker, serving as the co-main event of UFC 308, scheduled for October 26 at the […]

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Sean Strickland’s coach, Eric Nicksick, recently shared his insights on a tactical approach that could be key to conquering Khamzat Chimaev in a fight.

Chimaev is poised to make his highly anticipated return in a five-round middleweight showdown against Robert Whittaker, serving as the co-main event of UFC 308, scheduled for October 26 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

Initially, both fighters were slated to headline UFC Fight Night in Saudi Arabia on June 22. However, just weeks before the showdown, “Borz” was forced to withdraw due to an undisclosed illness. In a last-minute effort to save the main event, Ikram Aliskerov stepped up on short notice. Whittaker made quick work of Aliskerov, delivering a knockout victory in under two minutes.

The undefeated Chechen has earned a formidable reputation for his relentless and dominating fighting style. However, in the past two years, Chimaev’s momentum has been hampered by various setbacks, with illness being the primary factor behind his reduced activity.

Chimaev made his long-awaited return to the Octagon after a 13-month hiatus, squaring off against former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman at UFC 294 last October. He dominated the first round with a strong start, but the fight quickly became intense as Usman staged a spirited comeback, turning the next two rounds into a fiercely competitive contest. Despite the back-and-forth battle, Chimaev ultimately secured a majority decision victory.

Nicksick believes that if “The Reaper” can weather Chimaev’s explosive onslaught in the first two rounds, he’ll present the toughest challenge “Borz” has ever encountered in the Octagon…

Nicksick Suggests Chimaev Might Falter If Pushed To ‘Deep Waters’ in Later Rounds

During a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, Nicksick provided his analysis of the showdown between Whittaker and Chimaev. The respected MMA coach heaped praise on Whittaker, hailing him as one of the all-time greats in the middleweight division, and voiced his confidence that the former champion has the potential to deliver the toughest test Chimaev has ever faced in his career.

“I mean, it’s a great fight. You know, I think Rob has been somewhat overlooked in his last few fights, especially with the way he got beat by Dricus [Du Plessis],” Nicksick said. “Then he comes back the way he has. Robert Whittaker, I think, would have been a champion for a long time if it hadn’t been for Israel Adesanya. It’s like there’s always someone’s Kryptonite that comes into play… This is the matchup we need to see from both fighters to see how good Khamzat actually is. Would you be surprised if Khamzat blew through Robert Whittaker? No, you wouldn’t. Would you be surprised if Whittaker blew through Khamzat? No, you wouldn’t. So this is just one of those fights where you really want to see how good Khamzat truly is.”

Nicksick further noted that Chimaev has yet to face the rigorous test of a five-round bout. He highlighted that “Borz” struggled to maintain his intense pressure in previous fights against Usman and Gilbert Burns, suggesting that his cardio issues could be detrimental in a prolonged contest.

“I think the pace; I think somebody that can drag it into deep waters that we saw with Usman, that we saw in a three-rounder with Gilbert Burns, right? In a five-rounder, it’s always going to be the question mark because of Khamzat’s style of always trying to finish fights and get guys out of there right away. Can that be his Kryptonite? Is a guy who’s durable, who can last, get through rounds one and two, and then where does Khamzat fare in the deeper rounds? That is the question mark. We haven’t seen the unknown—that’s all we’re asking, and how well he does in these situations.”

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UFC Matchmaking Bulletin (7/29-8/4): Geoff Neal, Rob Font, Robelis Despaigne, & More Get Next Fights

MMA News has you covered with this week’s UFC matchmaking bulletin, featuring all the additions to the upcoming cards. With UFC events being held most weekends, Mick Maynard and Sean Shelby have their matchmaking work cut out if they’re to fill them, meaning new bouts are confirmed each and every week. In recent days, a […]

Continue Reading UFC Matchmaking Bulletin (7/29-8/4): Geoff Neal, Rob Font, Robelis Despaigne, & More Get Next Fights at MMA News.

MMA News has you covered with this week’s UFC matchmaking bulletin, featuring all the additions to the upcoming cards.

With UFC events being held most weekends, Mick Maynard and Sean Shelby have their matchmaking work cut out if they’re to fill them, meaning new bouts are confirmed each and every week.

In recent days, a few notable fights were made official by the UFC or reported by reputable sources. For more information on those matchups, check out the links below:

A number of lower-profile matchups also came together. For those, check out this week’s quick hits:

But it wasn’t all positive, with two fights falling through or being adjusted. For those, see below:

Continue Reading UFC Matchmaking Bulletin (7/29-8/4): Geoff Neal, Rob Font, Robelis Despaigne, & More Get Next Fights at MMA News.

MMA News Today: Zabit Magomedsharipov Reveals UFC Tried To Unsuccessfully Lure Him Back Multiple Times, Muhammad Mokaev Jokingly Teases Jobs At Uber, McDonald’s After UFC Release, & More

Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For August 1, 2024, we’re taking a look at: Zabit Magomedsharipov Says The UFC Tried To Bring Him Back Multiple Times But He Doesn’t Have The Desire The incredibly exciting Zabit Magomedsharipov remains one of the biggest […]

Continue Reading MMA News Today: Zabit Magomedsharipov Reveals UFC Tried To Unsuccessfully Lure Him Back Multiple Times, Muhammad Mokaev Jokingly Teases Jobs At Uber, McDonald’s After UFC Release, & 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 August 1, 2024, we’re taking a look at:

  • Magomedsharipov isn’t motivated by money or other promises
  • Mokaev explores new career paths
  • Ige vs Murphy booked again for Abu Dhabi

Zabit Magomedsharipov Says The UFC Tried To Bring Him Back Multiple Times But He Doesn’t Have The Desire

The incredibly exciting Zabit Magomedsharipov remains one of the biggest ‘what ifs’ in MMA history.

He went undefeated in the featherweight division and was on the cusp of a title shot before a long period of inactivity was followed by the news that he had decided to retire.

Magomedsharipov spoke in a recent interview with Red Corner MMA, where he revealed details about his current status and how the UFC have tried to bring him back several times.

“Yes they do from time to time since I left the sport. Three or four times they got in touch, they wanted to have a meeting with me, invited me to the US but I couldn’t go. I know that I can’t promise them anything so why should I go and meet with them?”

He added that returning to MMA is something he has thought about in the past but he doesn’t have the passion for competing right now, only for training and coaching.

Still only 33 years old, Magomedsharipov added that the UFC made substantial offers but that isn’t the deciding factor, adding that he doesn’t see a return ever happening.

“No, it’s not. They promised me a lot of things, but that’s not the point. I simply made up my mind. I don’t want to prove anything to anybody. Come back, go through training camps, I have no desire to return and it’s not about money. Whatever they offer me I don’t think I will ever come back.”

Muhammad Mokaev Jokes About Finding A New Career Option After UFC Departure

Muhammad Mokaev finds himself in a very strange position in his career that seemed unimaginable just several days ago.

With the UFC not wanting to renew his contract despite his clear potential and success in the flyweight division, going to another major promotion seemed the clear route for him.

However, Mokaev has made it clear that he still hopes to come to an agreement with the UFC and isn’t interested in signing with the PFL at this stage, who would be the clear favorite to land his signature.

“The Punisher” has instead been posting a series of memes on his social media account to show how he will be spending his time now that he is out of contract with few options.

Dan Ige Gets Abu Dhabi Return After UFC 303 Heroics

After he stepped up and helped save the day at UFC 303, Dan Ige has got his next assignment.

Ige was massively in the promotion’s good books after he agreed to fight Diego Lopes on the very same day and stepped into the co-main event.

Whilst he didn’t get his hand raised on that occasion, he will look to return to the win column at UFC 308 on October 27 in Abu Dhabi, per MMA Fighting’s Mike Heck.

Just like how Lopes has been rescheduled for UFC 306 in his original fight with Brian Ortega, Ige will compete in a match-up that got away from him also when he takes on the #11-ranked featherweight Lerone Murphy.

Murphy withdrew from their fight that was booked for February and went on to defeat Edson Barboza last time out.

Read more on the story here.

For more MMA news, check out:

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Islam Makhachev Reveals Injury Has Left Planned October UFC Title Defense In Doubt

The UFC may be receiving a major blow to its schedule for the second half of 2024, as UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has revealed that he is suffering from a hand injury. According to a video interview Makhachev did with Russian MMA and boxing media outlet Ushatayka, Makhachev revealed that a recent MRI has […]

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The UFC may be receiving a major blow to its schedule for the second half of 2024, as UFC Lightweight Champion Islam Makhachev has revealed that he is suffering from a hand injury.

According to a video interview Makhachev did with Russian MMA and boxing media outlet Ushatayka, Makhachev revealed that a recent MRI has shown damage to the ligaments in one of his hands.

It is unknown when he suffered this injury, though Makhachev seemed to suggest it may have come from his victory over Dustin Poirier at UFC 302 last month.

Makhachev is currently exploring options and looking to see if he can recover without surgery. If he has to have the procedure, it will almost certainly leave him unable to compete for the rest of 2024.

This would mean the planned lightweight championship fight between Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi on October 26 is in major jeopardy.

“After the fight, my fists hurt, a lot of things hurt,” Makhachev said (translation provided via @ChampRDS on X). “We’ll take time, everything is healing little by little. An MRI recently confirmed that I have a partial ligament tear. Let’s see if I can recover. If not, I might even have to have surgery.

“(Fighting in Abu Dhabi on October 26) is questionable. We haven’t talked about the fight yet… I really want to perform before the end of the year. I plan to, too…let’s see what happens.”

Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan Title Fight Potentially Set For Delay

The UFC has annually held a fall pay-per-view (originally September before moving to October) in Abu Dhabi since 2019. All but one event has seen either Khabib Nurmagomedov or Makhachev main eventing.

Questions of Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan originally arose because of a nine-month suspension the Nevada State Athletic Commission handed down to Tsarukyan for a pre-fight altercation he had with a fan while making his entrance for UFC 300. However, it’s expected that the Russian-Armenian will do a PSA that will reduce his suspension to six months, allowing him to stay in the plans for an October title fight.

Tsarukyan defeated former champion Charles Oliveira at the event in a lightweight title eliminator to seemingly secure a second dance with the champ.

Makhachev, meanwhile, defeated Oliveira to claim the lightweight title at UFC 280. He retained the belt successfully against then-featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski twice in 2023.

It is unknown what the UFC’s plans would be for Abu Dhabi in October if Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan cannot take place. Mateusz Gamrot, who faces Dan Hooker at UFC 305 in August, is the only lightweight fighter in the top five of the UFC’s lightweight rankings — minus Tsarukyan — with a win in his most recent fight.

Continue Reading Islam Makhachev Reveals Injury Has Left Planned October UFC Title Defense In Doubt at MMA News.