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Photos: Paige VanZant vs. Rachael Ostovich: A Rivalry Across Two Sports – UFC and Bare-Knuckle

Photos: Paige VanZant vs. Rachael Ostovich: A Rivalry Across Two Sports - UFC and Bare-Knuckle UFC stars Paige VanZant and Rachael Ostovich faced off twice in high-profile bouts. With each fighter claiming one victory,…

UFC stars Paige VanZant and Rachael Ostovich faced off twice in high-profile bouts. With each fighter claiming one victory, their rivalry spanned both mixed martial arts in the UFC and bare-knuckle boxing under the BKFC banner. These are some highlight photos from their matchups.

Paige VanZant vs. Rachael Ostovich – Photo Gallery

UFC

paige vanzant vs rachael ostovich ufc 1 — Paige VanZant vs. Rachael Ostovich

Paige VanZant and Rachael Ostovich crossed paths twice in combat sports, with each athlete securing a victory and leaving a mark on the other’s career. Their first clash took place on January 19, 2019, in the UFC, where VanZant won via a second-round armbar submission.

paige vanzant vs rachael ostovich ufc 3 — Paige VanZant vs. Rachael Ostovich

This fight was particularly significant for Ostovich, who returned to competition following a highly publicized recovery from injuries sustained in a domestic violence incident.

BKFC

The rematch came on July 23, 2021, under BKFC rules. This time, Ostovich turned the tables, winning by unanimous decision in a closely contested fight that earned “Fight of the Night” honors. The victory was a defining moment for Ostovich, as she avenged her earlier loss.

paige vanzant vs rachael ostovich ufc wi 1

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paige vanzant vs rachael ostovich 7 — Paige VanZant vs. Rachael Ostovich

Modeling

VanZant transitioned into modeling, social media, and entrepreneurial ventures. She appeared in the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Issue in 2019 and later became a top content creator on subscription-based platforms, reportedly earning more in a single day than during her entire UFC tenure.

Her career also expanded into professional wrestling, slapfighting, and acting. In January 2025, VanZant announced her return to MMA with the Global Fight League, adding another chapter to her career.

Ostovich followed a similar path, focusing on modeling and social media after her fighting career slowed. After her victory in BKFC, she signed a multi-year deal with the promotion but has yet to return to competition. Instead, she has concentrated on her own subscription-based content platform and modeling work.

Beyond the ring, both VanZant and Ostovich have leveraged their combat sports fame to build successful careers outside of fighting.

Dricus du Plessis Slams Sean “Split Decision” Strickland: Maybe Try Finishing a Fight

Dricus du Plessis has fired back at former UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland, taking aim at the American’s tendency…

Dricus du Plessis has fired back at former UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland, taking aim at the American’s tendency to engage in split-decision fights and his cautious, point-fighting style. Ahead of their highly anticipated rematch at UFC 312 in February 2025, du Plessis made it clear that he believes Strickland’s approach lacks the finishing power necessary to solidify his place as a true champion. With a bold prediction for their upcoming bout, du Plessis is confident he will finish Strickland and put the debate over their first encounter to rest.

Dricus du Plessis Slams Sean “Split Decision” Strickland

In a recent interview, UFC Middleweight Champion Dricus du Plessis took aim at Sean Strickland, criticizing his style and calling out his inability to finish fights. Du Plessis, who defeated Strickland via split decision at UFC 297 in January 2024, reflected on Strickland’s history with close bouts, saying, “He says he won the fight, but if you have eight split-decision fights in your career, you are bound to lose some of them. That’s why it’s a split decision.”

Dricus Du Plessis Rejects Sean Strickland

Dricus Du Plessis highlighted Strickland’s two split-decision losses, including one to himself and another to Jared Cannonier, arguing that this pattern speaks to Strickland’s cautious, point-fighting approach. “Having eight split decisions on your record… that’s insane,” du Plessis said. “I know I can finish him, and I know I can go five rounds.”

Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya UFC305

The South African champion went on to make bold claims about his upcoming rematch with Strickland, emphasizing his experience and finishing abilities. “You know, it’s not my first rodeo anymore,” he said. “It’s not my first five-rounder. I’ve beaten Rob Whittaker in five rounds, going to a decision. I finished one of the greatest in Israel Adesanya. And now, I’m going to finish Sean Strickland and put that whole argument to bed.

The two fighters will meet again in a rematch scheduled for UFC 312 in Sydney, Australia, on February 9, 2025. Sean Strickland captured the middleweight title by defeating Israel Adesanya at UFC 293 has been vocal about keeping the fight standing. However, Dricus du Plessis, who won the middleweight title by defeating Strickland at UFC 297, has dismissed Strickland’s request, emphasizing his versatility and readiness to engage in all aspects of mixed martial arts.

Strickland’s reputation for engaging in numerous split decisions has sparked mixed reactions from fans and analysts, with some criticizing his style for being “boring” and lacking aggression. Despite this, Strickland has been successful in controlling fights with his technical striking and defensive approach, leading to victories over top-level opponents.D Dricus u Plessis, however, is confident that his aggressive approach and well-rounded skill set will see him finish Strickland in their next encounter, settling the debate once and for all.

Did Luke Rockhold Date Demi Lovato? Former UFC Champ Reveals All

Luke Rockhold has confirmed the brief romance he shared with pop star Demi Lovato in 2016. It had been…

Luke Rockhold has confirmed the brief romance he shared with pop star Demi Lovato in 2016. It had been heavily rumored for years that the musician and UFC champion had been an item, but now we get clarity on their situation.

Did Luke Rockhold Date Demi Lovato?

“We got tattoos,” Luke Rockhold explained about dating Demi Lovato, “We were cool for the summer. We hung out for summer,” he shared with Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson, acknowledging the spontaneous nature of their relationship. In a recent interview, the former UFC Middleweight Champion reflected on their time together, describing it as a fun, carefree summer fling.

The two first met at an MMA gym in Los Angeles and made their public debut as a couple at UFC 205 in November 2016. Their relationship, though short-lived, was marked by a memorable gesture, matching smiley-face tattoos on their little fingers. The tattoos, which they got early in their romance.

Luke Rockhold is a retired MMA fighter known for his striking and grappling skills and remains a prominent figure in combat sports. His achievements include being the Strikeforce Middleweight Champion and UFC Middleweight Champion after defeating Chris Weidman in 2015. Outside of MMA, Rockhold has also ventured into modeling for major brands like Ralph Lauren.

Meanwhile, Demi Lovato is an accomplished singer and actress, who gained fame early in life through roles in Camp Rock and Sonny with a Chance. She later found success in music with hits like “Skyscraper” and “Sorry Not Sorry.” Lovato is also an advocate for mental health and LGBTQ+ rights.

Despite the end of their brief relationship in 2016, both Rockhold and Lovato have expressed positive feelings about their time together, with Rockhold fondly remembering the experience as a carefree chapter of his life.

UFC Referee Marc Goddard Reveals How Abuse from MMA Fans Has Become ‘Completely Normalized’

UFC referee Marc Goddard has opened up about the growing issue of online abuse aimed at officials and fighters…

UFC referee Marc Goddard has opened up about the growing issue of online abuse aimed at officials and fighters within the MMA community. Despite being one of the sport’s most respected figures, Goddard says that this type of harassment has become a troubling norm in the digital age.

Marc Goddard and Michael Bisping on Abuse

Speaking candidly with former UFC champion Michael Bisping, Marc Goddard acknowledged that while criticism of referees and fighters is part of the job, the level of abuse he faces goes far beyond constructive feedback.

“We’re human beings. Nobody should be beyond reproach, and that’s fine,” Goddard said. “A lot of the times, the people that criticize don’t even know the rules themselves, but you’ve got to let them say their thing. They may not agree with you, and that’s cool—that’s human nature.”

However, the situation takes a darker turn when the criticism morphs into personal attacks. Goddard explained that while criticism is part of the job, the abuse directed at him and others is something they are not paid to endure.

“The bit that you’re not paid to do, the bit that you’re not paid to accept, is the abuse,” he said. “It’s easy to just turn a blind eye, wash it out. Because even if you notice something or talk to someone back, I think invariably that’s what people want. You know, they want to be like, ‘He noticed me!’” Former UFC fighter Michael Bisping, added, “They always want a reaction.”

Marc Goddard emphasized the importance of not engaging with online criticism, stressing that seeking validation from the public is not part of his job. “If I’ve done something that wasn’t right or wasn’t correct, no one will know faster than me,” he said. “The younger generation, obviously like our kids and stuff, they don’t have the comparison. So, this stuff, like this, is completely normalized to them.”

This normalization of abuse, particularly on social media, has raised concerns about the psychological toll on those involved in the sport. Goddard pointed out that the younger generation’s constant access to social media has led to a shift in how fans interact with athletes and officials, making the abusive behavior seem almost expected.

As one of the sport’s most influential figures, Marc Goddard continues to advocate officiating standards. He has been recognized for his work in the MMA community, including being named Referee of the Year at the 14th Annual World MMA Awards in 2022. His legacy also includes his work with “Safe MMA,” a charity focused on medical safety in MMA, and his development of a globally recognized referees and judges course. Despite the challenges he faces, Goddard remains dedicated to his role in the sport.

Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov – Odds and Match Preview

Let’s take a closer look at Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov. The upcoming UFC Fight Night main event on…

Let’s take a closer look at Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov. The upcoming UFC Fight Night main event on February 1, 2025, in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, features a high-stakes middleweight clash between former two-time champion Israel Adesanya and rising contender Nassourdine Imavov. This bout is pivotal for both fighters as they aim to solidify their positions in the division.

Israel Adesanya vs. Nassourdine Imavov – Odds

The betting odds for the middleweight headliner between Israel Adesanya and Nassourdine Imavov have shown some fluctuation leading up to the fight. As of January 27, 2025, Adesanya remains the betting favorite, but the odds have tightened slightly over time. MMA fans can keep a close eye on the odds at the Best UFC Online Betting Sites for full information.

Initially, Adesanya opened as a -190 favorite (implying a 65.5% chance of winning), while Imavov was a +160 underdog (39% implied probability). Since then, Adesanya’s odds have shifted to around -180 to -186, depending on the sportsbook, meaning his implied chances of winning now sit closer to 61-63%. Meanwhile, Imavov’s odds have moved from approximately +140 to +144, reflecting a slight increase in confidence from bettors in his ability to pull off an upset.

This shift likely reflects public perception of Adesanya’s recent struggles. He is coming off back-to-back losses, including a submission defeat to Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305. Conversely, Imavov is on a three-fight win streak against strong competition, which has bolstered his reputation as a legitimate threat.

For the Nigerian-Kiwi Israel Adesanya, this fight represents a critical opportunity to prove he remains a top contender in the middleweight division. After suffering three losses in his last four fights, most notably to Sean Strickland and current champion Dricus Du Plessis, Adesanya is looking to bounce back and reassert himself as a dominant force. A win could propel him back into title contention.

For the French-born Nassourdine Imavov, this is the biggest fight of his career. Ranked fifth in the division, Imavov is coming off an impressive three-fight win streak against top-tier opponents like Jared Cannonier and Brendan Allen. A victory over a legend like Adesanya could leapfrog him into title contention, potentially ahead of Khamzat Chimaev, depending on his performance.

‘The Last Stylebender’ Adesanya’s kickboxing background is evident in his precise striking, creative combinations, and masterful use of feints to manipulate opponents. Adesanya excels at maintaining range with his reach advantage and is adept at counter-striking when opponents overcommit.

While not possessing overwhelming power or speed, Imavov compensates with excellent footwork, defensive awareness, and a diverse striking arsenal. He can mix in grappling when needed but lacks dominant top control. Imavov’s calm demeanor allows him to capitalize on opponents’ mistakes.

This matchup promises an intriguing clash of styles: Adesanya’s elite striking against Imavov’s well-rounded approach. Both fighters are under immense pressure to deliver; Adesanya to maintain relevance at the top, and Imavov to prove he belongs among the elite.

Demetrious Johnson Explains Why Jon Jones Would Be a Terrible Partner in a Street Fight

Jon Jones is perhaps the greatest mixed martial artist on the planet, but Demetrious Johnson thinks he’d be terrible…

Jon Jones is perhaps the greatest mixed martial artist on the planet, but Demetrious Johnson thinks he’d be terrible backup in a street fight.

During a recent appearance on Johnson’s MightyCast podcast, former UFC light heavyweight champion Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson got into a few hypotheticals with the flyweight great, one of them being which MMA fighter you would want on your side in a street fight. Understandably, ‘Rampage’ quickly named the two pound-for-pound best fighters in the world today, undisputed heavyweight champion Jon Jones and lightweight titleholder Islam Makhachev.

“If I’m finna go into this dark alley, you know what I’m saying, and they say you can have one person with you to help you fight, I’m gonna say Jon Jones,” Jackson said. “I’m not gonna say Islam, you know what I’m saying. That’s me, what I think.”

However, Johnson was quick to disagree. Particularly when it comes to ‘Bones’ whom he suggested would probably turn on you and join the other side in stealing all your stuff.

“I don’t know, man,” Johnson said. “I think you’re picking the wrong person. I think Jon Jones might rob you and join sides with the other guys.”

Of course, Demetrious Johnson’s comment is a clear reference to the slew of legal troubles ‘Bones’ has found himself in over the years, the most recently being a situation where he allegedly threatened to kill a drug tester who was dispatched to his house to collect a sample in March 2024.

‘DJ’ Dubs Francis Ngannou, not Jon Jones, the best heavyweight in MMA

It’s certainly not the first time ‘Mighty Mouse’ has thrown some shade at Jones. Shortly after seeing ‘Bones’ dispatch Stipe Miocic at UFC 309, Johnson dubbed Francis Ngannou the best heavyweight in the world, noting that ‘The Predator’ brutally KO’d Miocic years before Jones got there.

“I think, right now, Francis Ngannou is probably the best heavyweight in the world,” Johnson told MMA Fighting. “I truly believe that. After seeing what he did to his last opponent [Renan Ferreira], he beat Stipe, [and] knocked him out four years ago.”