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Articles by Lewis Simpson
Umar Nurmagomedov Fires Back at Critics Claiming Khabib’s Influence Behind His Title Shot
Umar Nurmagomedov has recently surged into the UFC bantamweight title conversation, largely thanks to his coach, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Before his recent bout against Cory Sandhagen at UFC Abu Dhabi, Umar was ranked #10. His climb to a title shot drew skepticism from fans and analysts alike, who questioned whether his credentials justified a fight with the #2 ranked Sandhagen. However, Umar has responded firmly to these critiques.
Shavkat Rakhmonov Fires Back at Ian Garry's UFC 310 Challenge: "It Won’t Even Be Close"
Ian Garry, a rising star in the welterweight division, recently called out fellow unbeaten contender Shavkat Rakhmonov for a massive showdown at UFC 310 later this year. Responding to the challenge, Rakhmonov asserted that a fight between them would not be a close contest at all. Rakhmonov, who climbed into the welterweight top-3 last December with a decisive victory, has an unblemished record with a 100% finishing rate.
Charles Oliveira reacts to possibility of being leapfrogged by the winner of Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje 2: "I'm next" | BJPenn.com
UFC lightweight Charles Oliveira seeks redemption Despite Oliveira falling short in Abu Dhabi to the now-champion, the Brazilian is hungry for redemption and is confident in securing a rematch later in the year. While both competitors feel they secure the next shot at Makhachev with a victory, many, including Makhachev’s coach, Javier Mendez, believe a win over Dariush doesn’t warrant a second attempt at his student.
Brendan Schaub encourages fighters to take action following latest MMA judging debacle - Boycott UFC 300
Brendan Schaub on state of MMA judging To stop judges from significantly impacting the careers of fighters, Schaub feels it’s up to the fighters themselves to campaign for change. During a recent episode of The Schaub Show, Schaub suggested one approach fighters could take to make a real stance on judging in MMA. RELATED: BRENDAN SCHAUB RESPONDS TO DANA WHITE’S CRITICISM OF FRANCIS NGANNOU’S NEW PFL DEAL: “GIMMICKS?
Henry Cejudo names his greatest bantamweight of all time, reveals next move
Henry Cejudo names the greatest bantamweight in UFC history alongside his next move within the division. Cejudo is coming off a split-decision loss to the division’s champion Aljamain Sterling at UFC 288. The fight marked the Olympic gold medalist’s first fight since retiring in 2020. In 2018, Cejudo attained his first UFC world title when edging a split decision over then-flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson at UFC 227.
Conor McGregor makes threatening claim ahead of Michael Chandler fight: "You're going to see a visual of a head hanging off"
Conor McGregor has made a violent claim of what to expect when he meets Michael Chandler later in the year. The loud-spoken Irishman has promised to deliver “the greatest comeback in combat sports” after being sidelined since 2021. At UFC 264, McGregor lost his second consecutive bout to Dustin Poirier and snapped his ankle in the process. An injury so severe was met with questions from the 34-year-old if he would ever return to compete again.
The best flying knee knockouts in UFC history
Since the birth of the Ultimate Fighting Championships (UFC) in 1993, the company has provided some of the most memorable jaw-dropping moments in combat sports history. The sport of mixed martial arts continues to evolve yearly, delivering special moments for fans to reflect on for decades. From slick submissions to highlight reel knockouts, the UFC has it all.
UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling takes aim at Dana White: "You made a fight, the night of the fight"
“We’ll have somebody else fight, we’ll do somebody else for the interim title,” White added. “Don’t say you’re going to go out and fight and then start saying stuff like, ‘If my [body holds up].’ What’s the first thing that happened?
Alexander Volkanovski names the featherweight he would have loved to face in their prime
UFC champion Alexander Volkanovski names dream featherweight fight “It’s pretty easy for me in saying Conor McGregor because he was in featherweight. He was a featherweight. We’ve got to remember the champions I’ve beat. I’ve beat every other champion in the featherweight division. The only champion I haven’t fought in the featherweight division is Conor McGregor”. Volkanovski knows a fight with McGregor would come with a significant financial gain, but for him, it’s more about legacy.
Alexander Volkanovski shuts down talk of a fourth fight with Max Holloway: "It's a hard fight to sell"
UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski has zero desire in a potential fourth fight with Max Holloway. The history between arguably the two greatest featherweights in UFC history dates back to 2019, when Volkanovski first attained the title at UFC 254, snapping Holloway’s fourteen-fight unbeaten streak at 145lbs. Since then, the pair have met a further twice, with the Australian edging a split decision at UFC 251 and then putting on a clinic at UFC 276 to go (3-0) over the former champ.
Eddie Hearn reveals his Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz prediction: "He gets stopped"
Eddie Hearn predicts Jake Paul vs Nate Diaz boxing bout “With Nate, no one knows. He could get completely smashed to pieces in a round, or he could be a great fighter.
Conor McGregor's former sparring partner thinks Jake Paul would knock UFC star out in boxing
Paulie Malignaggi thinks Jake Paul would knockout Conor McGregor if the pair ever met between the ropes. Paul is scheduled to face his fourth MMA fighter in boxing since debuting in 2020. The Youtuber-turned boxer will face UFC veteran Nate Diaz on August 5 in Dallas, Texas, but has been vocal in expressing his desire to fight McGregor. As much as Paul has attempted to poke the bear with the Irish superstar, he’s failed to get a serious bite back.
Sean O'Malley's coach names Aljamain Sterling as “the most dangerous” bantamweight champion in the divisions history
Coach of Sean O’Malley, Tim Welch, has named Aljamain Sterling as ‘the most dangerous’ bantamweight champion in the division’s history. Still, he’s confident his student has the tools to overcome the current bantamweight kingpin. O’Malley has risen the ranks to earn an opportunity to catapult his career into further stardom when he meets with Sterling for the bantamweight strap.
Israel Adesanya reveals who he's rooting for in Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus du Plessis fight
Israel Adesanya has weighed in on the upcoming middleweight title eliminator fight between Robert Whittaker and Dricus du Plessis. The fight is set to feature on the main card of the upcoming UFC 290 International Fight Week event at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on July.8. Topping the action-packed fight card is a featherweight title unification bout between Alexander Volkanovski and interim champion Yair Rodriguez.
Ben Askren calls out Jon Jones after recent Francis Ngannou remarks
By Lewis Simpson - May 18, 2023 Ben Askren has an issue with the UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones following his recent remarks directed at Francis Ngannou. Following the announcement that Ngannou would sign a record-breaking deal with the PFL, Jones quickly poked jabs at the former UFC heavyweight champion. Earlier this year, Ngannou revealed he wouldn’t re-sign with the UFC and would test the waters of free agency.
Conor McGregor responds to "woeful" challenge from UFC veteran Matt Brown
Conor McGregor has responded to what he calls a “woeful” challenge from UFC veteran Matt Brown. Following Brown’s knockout over Court McGee this past Saturday at UFC Charlotte, he caught the attention of McGregor, who wants something he has. In the wake of the fight, McGregor took to Twitter to highlight Brown’s record of being at joint top of the all-time knockout list in the company’s history, alongside Derrick Lewis.
Anthony Smith admits he has a "glaring hole" in his game following Johnny Walker loss
In the wake of his defeat to Johnny Walker at UFC Charlotte, Anthony Smith has admitted he has a “glaring hole” in his game. On Saturday past, Smith and Walker met at the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The light heavyweight contest was scheduled for three rounds after being demoted to the co-headliner, with Jailton Almedia and Jairinzho Rozenstruik taking the main event spot.
Conor McGregor gives update on Michael Chandler fight
Conor McGregor gives update on Michael Chandler fight In a recent interview with TMZ, McGregor teased that an announcement would be coming soon while celebrating his son’s birthday in Los Angeles. “Soon, very Soon,” McGregor said regarding his fight with Chandler. “An announcement soon” Despite being sidelined since 2021 and losing back-to-back fights to Poirier, McGregor is confident he can reach the heights he once did in the sport.
Francis Ngannou responds to 'ignorant' Conor McGregor
Francis Ngannou has stuck by his gun and is confident he made the right decision to part ways with the UFC, even when the sport’s biggest star challenged it. On Tuesday, May. 16, it was announced that Francis Ngannou had signed a lucrative deal with the Professional Fighters League (PFL) and will make his debut with the promotion in mid-2024. The former UFC heavyweight champion’s focus will be on making his highly-anticipated boxing debut for the remainder of the year.
Colby Covington slams "UFC washouts" for competing under BKFC: "They couldn’t make it in the UFC"
The sport of mixed martial arts has grown rapidly over the last decade, and bare-knuckle boxing is quickly following the same footprint. However, the next welterweight title challenger, Colby Covington, isn’t a fan of the sport. The past face, the violent and bloody sport, has made it extremely popular among hardcore combat sports fanatics who crave the chaos of what bare-knuckle boxing brings.
Marijuana exemption denied for Nate Diaz ahead of Jake Paul boxing bout
Nate Diaz and Jake Paul are set to collide between the ropes on August 5th, and it was confirmed both fighters would undergo drug testing, including for marijuana. The boxing contest between the pair is trending as one of the most highly-anticipated fights of the summer due to both men’s massive fan bases and personalities. Diaz has built a loyal following while competing in MMA under the UFC banner.
Aljamain Sterling addresses "aged gracefully" comments from Anthony Smith regarding the illegal knee incident: "When you've got a bone to pick with somebody, you kinda got to call it how it is" | BJPenn.com
UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling has addressed Anthony Smith’s “aged gracefully” comments regarding his illegal knee incident with Petr Yan. Back in 2021, at UFC 259, Sterling’s championship reign began, but the way the championship was attained caused a massive uproar in the community. Sterling had challenged Yan in a highly-anticipated matchup at the top of the division, and after cruising his way to victory, before making a crucial mistake that would cost him his world title.
Anthony Smith predicts second-round submission over Johnny Walker
Anthony Smith is set to face Johnny Walker this Saturday in the UFC Charlotte co-headliner, and the light heavyweight standout predicts a second-round submission victory coming his way. The Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina, will host 12 thrilling mixed martial arts contests. Heavyweight contenders Jailton Almeida and Jairzinho Rozenstruik top the bill, with Smith and Walker taking the co-main event slot.
Colby Covington claims Israel Adesanya "can't hang" with him: "I beat him from pillar to post"
Colby Covington made a bold statement claiming that UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesayna doesn’t stand a chance with him inside the Octagon and is willing to back it up. Covington is currently ranked No.2 in the welterweight division and is on the hunt for a third championship fight later in the year. During his time under the UFC banner, Covington has attained the interim welterweight gold strap and fell short on two occasions to claim the undisputed championship against Kamaru Usman.
Dana White announces official main card and televised prelim lineup for UFC 290
Wednesday morning, UFC president Dana White made an exciting announcement revealing some major bouts that will take place at UFC 290 on July. 8 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The date marks the UFC’s popular International Fight Week, and the company always try to stack the card from top to bottom with prospects, notable names, and championship contests. July will be no different. Taking to social media, White was ecstatic to let fans know what he’s been working on for two-month’s time.
Paul Craig interested in potential fight with Alex Pereira: "I don’t rate his Jiu-Jitsu"
Scotland’s Paul Craig has expressed an interest in fighting former UFC middleweight champion Alex Pereira. The 35-year-old believes it’s a favourable matchup for him given Pereira’s underdeveloped ground game. Despite the offer from Craig, it’s unclear what division the fight would take place in, with the Airdrie native announcing he would attempt to make middleweight for his next bout following a successful test-cut earlier this month.
Transgender MMA Fighter Mack Beggs accepts challenger from former Strikeforce champion Jake Shields: “We going to f**k you up”
Jake Shields hasn’t competed in mixed martial arts since 2018 but may have a fight on the horizon. Shields has remained active within the MMA community and often expresses some controversial views on social media. More recently, he’s ranted about numerous issues, including transgender athletes. Shields has even entertained back-and-forths with MMA fighter Alana McLaughlin, who represents the trans community in competition.
Henry Cejudo roasts Aljamain Sterling during interview with Daniel Cormier ahead of UFC 288: “After this he’s got a career dude. He’s got a career in Hollywood” | BJPenn.com
Prior to his retirement in 2020, Henry Cejudo mastered the art of getting under his opponent’s skin, and ahead of his return to the octagon at UFC 288, the 36-year-old is still utilizing the art of mental warfare in the build-up. Saturday, May 6, in Newark, New Jersey, Cejudo is set to make his return to competition at UFC 288 after a three-year hiatus from the sport.
Aljamain Sterling reacts after being pestered by Henry Cejudo’s team at the UFC 288 weigh-ins: “The disrespect was so unprofessional”
Aljamain Sterling has responded after he was pestered by Henry Cejudo’s team at the UFC 288 weigh-ins earlier today. As Sterling took to the scale ahead of his bantamweight title fight with Cejudo, the mind-games began for team Cejudo. The Olympian gold medalist’s team pursued to throw chants towards Sterling during his weigh-in, which saw the defending champion hit 134-pounds.
Sean O'Malley highlights large scar on Henry Cejudo's face ahead of UFC 288: "He forgot how to box"
Sean O’Malley has highlighted the large scar on Henry Cejudo’s face ahead of his bantamweight title fight against Aljamain Sterling at UFC 288 in New Jersey on May 6. While preparing to challenge for the 135-pound strap that was once his, a large gash that required stitches appeared on his face during a video uploaded to his Youtube Channel one month ago, which concerned fans ever so slightly.
Kamaru Usman reveals he's fallen in love with the sport again, targets return within the next few months: "I’ve been training now and I just feel stronger" | BJPenn.com
Kamaru Usman is re-finding his love for the sport of mixed martial arts and wants to return within the next couple of months. Since making his professional debut in 2012, Usman is currently facing the first skid of his entire career after losing back-to-back fights to Leon Edwards. Following a successful stint on ‘The Ultimate Fighter’, it took Usman nine fights until he got the UFC welterweight title wrapped around his waist after dominating Tyron Woodley at UFC 235.
Mike Perry weighs in on Nate Diaz choking Logan Paul lookalike unconscious: "We get mad at anybody who thinks they can beef with us in a one-on-one matchup" | BJPenn.com
Mike Perry has weighed in on the viral clip of Nate Diaz choking a Logan Paul lookalike unconscious after a brawl unfolding on New Orleans’s streets. Known for his success inside the octagon, Diaz has also made a habit of getting involved in physical confrontations outside the cage. On the weekend past, Diaz was spotted getting into numerous altercations while supporting his friend Chris Avila, who was competing on the Misfits Boxing 6 card in New Orleans.
Paddy Pimblett snubs idea of rekindling friendship with Ariel Helwani: "He tried to ruin my career"
UFC lightweight Paddy Pimblett snubbed the idea of rekindling a relationship with mixed martial arts journalist Ariel Helwani, stating the Canadian “tried to ruin” his career prior to his UFC 282 fight with Jared Gordon. Before his UFC 282 clash with Gordon back in December last year, Pimblett’s stock was rising significantly. The lively Scouser joined the UFC in 2021 and quickly became a mainstream name, finishing his first three opponents under the UFC’s lights.
Colby Covington claims Jorge Masvidal's "fake retirement" was to take time off to use steroids: "He’ll get out of the USADA pool, probably go do some steroids, and come back" | BJPenn.com
Colby Covington isn’t convinced Jorge Masvidal is hanging up the gloves for good. After losing his fourth consecutive fight at the hands of Gilbert Burns earlier this month at UFC 287, Masvidal announced his retirement in front of a sold-out home crowd in Miami. Following the bout, Masvidal said he’s now beginning to feel like a 38-year-old when he competes, claiming his mind’s still sharp, but the body won’t cooperate.
Floyd Mayweather open to helping Francis Ngannou with boxing transition: "I would love to work with him"
Floyd Mayweather recently expressed willingness to help Francis Ngannou with his highly-anticipated boxing transition. Ngannou decided to part ways with the UFC as the then-heavyweight champion after failing to agree with the company. As per White, Ngannou rejected a deal that would have made him the highest-paid heavyweight in the promotion’s history.
Eddie Hearn hints at possible Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou fight materializing: "I had lunch with Francis Ngannou"
Anthony Joshua Boxing News Eddie Hearn Francis Ngannou By Lewis Simpson - April 19, 2023 Eddie Hearn has hinted at a possible boxing bout between Anthony Joshua and Francis Ngannou materializing. Ngannou underwent months upon end trying to negotiate a deal with the UFC to stay. However, after failing to agree on terms, the then UFC heavyweight champion made the decision to ultimately part days with the company and test free agency.
Jose Aldo apologizes to Conor McGregor following post-fight outrage: "Conor is my friend"
Conor McGregor Jose Aldo UFC By Lewis Simpson - April 18, 2023 Jose Aldo has sent his apology to old foe turned-friend Conor McGregor. Following his draw with with Jeremy Stephens in his second professional boxing bout at Gamebred Boxing, Aldo, who was still full of adrenaline and disappointment, threw some shots at McGregor.
Leon Edwards opens up on his relationship with UFC President Dana White amid Colby Covington controversy: “It's alright, we're not the best pals”
UFC welterweight champion Leon Edwards opens up on his relationship with UFC President Dana White amid the Colby Covington controversy. In March, at UFC 286, Edwards successfully completed the double over Kamaru Usman, earning a majority decision on the judges’ scorecards. Colby Covington, the UFC’s favourite heel, weighed in as the backup fighter in case anything was to unexpectedly occur. With both Edwards and Usman making weight, Covington wasn’t needed.
Leon Edwards closes the door on July return in London, eyes Abu Dhabi card in October
Home » MMA News » UFC » Leon Edwards closes the door on July return in Lon... Leon Edwards closed the door on returning on July 22 at the rumoured UFC 291 event in London, England. Instead, the welterweight champion eyes a second title defence in Abu Dhabi in October. Edwards is coming off back-to-back wins against the former pound-for-pound king, Kamaru Usman.
Report | Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic heavyweight title fight pushed back from UFC 290
Home » MMA News » UFC » Report | Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic heavyweight ti... MMA NewsJon JonesStipe MiocicUFC Originally rumored to headline UFC 290 in Las Vegas during International Fight Week in the Summer, current UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic’s blockbuster bout is now pushed back from the event scheduled for July 8.
Brandon Moreno vs. Alexandre Pantoja flyweight title fight set for UFC 290 on July 8
A new flyweight title fight has been added to UFC’s July 8 International Fight Week event. As speculated, Brandon Moreno will clash with No.2 ranked contender Alexandre Pantoja for the first time as a two-time flyweight champion. Pantoja was originally expected to face Moreno at the end of 2021, but an injury forced the Brazilian out, allowing his native counterpart, Deiveson Figueiredo, to continue the rivalry with Moreno.
Khamzat Chimaev trolls a number of different fighters ahead of Saturday’s UFC 287 event
Home » MMA News » UFC » Khamzat Chimaev trolls a number of different fight... MMA NewsKhamzat ChimaevUFC Khamzat Chimaev has trolled a number of different fighters on the UFC roster ahead of Saturday’s UFC 287 event. UFC 287 is set to take place this Saturday at the Miami-Dade Arena in Miami, Florida. The card is stacked with talent and notable names, including the highly anticipated rematch between Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya.
Chuck Liddell doesn't expect Israel Adesanya to make it past the third round at UFC 287: "I’m thinking that he’s going to end it in three"
Chuck Liddell doesn’t expect Israel Adesanya to surpass the third round in his UFC 287 headliner with Alex Pereira. The former UFC light heavyweight champion Liddell has spent some time with the current middleweight champion ahead of his rematch with Adesanya. Pereira and Adesanya will close the show in the UFC 287 main event on April 8 at the Miami-Dade Arena in Miami, Florida.
UFC heavyweight's Derrick Lewis and Tai Tuivasa open as betting favorites to join WWE following Endeavor merger
Following the news of the UFC and WWE joining forces as a new company under the control of the Endeavor Group, UFC heavyweight stars Derrick Lewis and Tai Tuivasa have opened up as betting favourites to make the transition into pro-wrestling. The news has sparked a debate across the mixed martial arts and wrestling scene, with a handful of questions still to be answered. What does this mean for the UFC and WWE?
Chris Weidman shares advice to Israel Adesanya on facing criticism from the media: "You have to answer all those questions"
Former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman shares some friendly advice to Israel Adesanya as he prepares to reclaim the title he lost in November last year. This Saturday, at UFC 287, in Miami, Florida, Adesanya will look to avenge his first middleweight loss in MMA against a longtime foe, Alex Pereira. Pereira snatched Adesanya’s middleweight crown in the fifth round of their third combat sports encounter at UFC 281 in Maddison Square Garden.
Darren Till doesn’t understand why fighters get “offended” by UFC President Dana White: “What are you getting your feeling hurt for?”
Former UFC fighter Darren Till doesn’t understand why fighters get offended by the words of Dana White. White has been the face of the UFC dating back since his purchase in 2001. During that time, the boss has made headlines for the right and for the wrong reasons. White is often a negative topic of conversation in the media, whether it be fans, analysts, or his own active roster criticizing him.
Two title fights announced for Bellator 297, including Vadim Nemkov vs. Yoel Romero
Home » MMA News » Bellator » Two title fights announced for Bellator 297, inclu... MMA NewsBellatorVadim NemkovYoel Romero Bellator MMA has announced a spectacular two-title fight card that will go down on June 16 in Chicago, Illinois, at Bellator 297. After a successful turnout last November at the Wintrust Arena, where Vadim Nemkov defended his title against Cory Anderson at Bellator 288, the promotion is heading back with a mouthwatering card.
Michael Bisping explains why he’s picking Michael Chandler to defeat Conor McGregor in upcoming UFC bout
Michael Bisping is backing Michael Chandler to defeat Conor McGregor in their upcoming UFC bout. McGregor has been out of competition since suffering a nasty leg injury in July 2021 in his second consecutive loss to Dustin Poirier. Having undergone surgery, McGregor is expected to return at the back end of the year. Despite not stepping foot in the UFC’s Octagon since 2021, McGregor has endured in a second-stint on coaching a team on The Ultimate Fighter.
Israel Adesanya reveals the lessons he learned in UFC middleweight title loss to Alex Pereira
Israel Adesanya has revealed the lessons he’s learned since being dethroned as middleweight king of the UFC by Alex Pereira. Next month, at UFC 287 in Miami, Adesanya will face his long-time rival Pereira for a fourth time in a combat setting. Pereira holds two victories over Adesanya in kickboxing and one in MMA. Despite falling short on three occasions, Adesanya enters his UFC 287 headliner with no pressure on his shoulders and a ‘nothing to lose’ mindset.
Chael Sonnen claims Joe Rogan "is on drugs" after his take on Jorge Masvidal being a better fighter than George St-Pierre
Chael Sonnen is known for having no filter when voicing his thoughts to his audience. The fighter-turned-analyst weighed in on Joe Rogan’s recent comments regarding Jorge Masvidal and two-time UFC champion George St-Pierre. Rogan believes the sport has evolved so much over the years that Masvidal is technically the more skilled fighter than St-Pierre during his time as UFC welterweight champion.
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