MMA Fighting

With the UFC in a rare off week, the MMA Fighting matchmakers return with their sixth installment of "Ask Mike & AK anything" to fill in the gaps. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee answer listener submitted questions for the entire program. Topics include how Bellator champions would stack up against UFC titleholders, Dana White's attitude as of late and if he will be held accountable at all for the negative feedback he's received from fans, if a potential trilogy fight between Conor McGregor and Nate Diaz will happen in the UFC, Bellator's new flyweight division, The Ultimate Fighter, journalism ethics questions that have surfaced recently, when Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington will happen, the PFL's big deal with Francis Ngannou, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC President Dana White and bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling are making headlines right now with a public feud over Sterling possibly not being ready for UFC 292, which would be shocking were it not for the boss' long history of butting heads with some of the promotion's biggest stars. From all-time greats to unappreciated champs, White has frequently found ways to get on the bad side of UFC titleholders. Sometimes it's about money, sometimes it's about fighters bowing down to the UFC's plans, and sometimes it feels like White just doesn't like someone. Regardless, it's never a bad time to refresh everyone's memory when it comes to White's bizarre penchant for anti-promotion. MMA Fighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, Damon Martin, and Jed Meshew, dig deep into the mind of the most powerful man in MMA to figure out what motivates these constant conflicts and discuss the four most important White vs. UFC champion grudges. Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin: @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling has been catching some strays as of late from UFC President Dana White, who said that the bantamweight champion "can't seem to get out of his own way" after Sterling wanted to get some lingering injuries checked out following his recent fight with Henry Cejudo earlier this month. Surely, one of the company's world champions deserves better, right? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the way Sterling has been treated as of late ahead of his quick turnaround scheduled title defense against Sean O'Malley at UFC 292 in August, Henry Cejudo wanting to add his name to the mix, and how actual promotion is being graded for the UFC and its fighters. Additionally, listener questions include the NBA Eastern Conference finals and the Celtics dominating the Heat in Game 5, how the UFC at this point in the game feels similar to the WWE during the Hulk Hogan era before WCW changed the game a decade or so later, memorable Memorial Day weekend cards in the UFC, including UFC 146 and UFC 160, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

DAMN! They Were Good celebrates the careers of the most exciting and influential fighters in MMA history, and on this episode, the MMA Fighting crew remembers the best of former UFC lightweight and welterweight champion, B.J. Penn. As the first non-Brazilian to ever win gold at the BJJ World Championships, Penn entered the UFC in 2001 with an immense amount of hype, and over his 18-year career, the man named “The Prodigy” more than lived up to his moniker. Arguably the best lightweight in the world at the time, just three years into his MMA career, Penn did the unthinkable, jumping up a weight class and submitting the top pound-for-pound fighter in the sport, Matt Hughes, to claim his first UFC title. After that historic win, Penn bounced around, chasing ever greater feats, like destroying lineal lightweight champion Duane Ludwig and then facing off with future light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida, losing a competitive decision. In 2008, Penn finally decided to stop chasing his fights of fancy and put his head down to stake out a legacy at lightweight, claiming the title with a win over Joe Stevenson to become the second fighter in history to win titles in two weight classes inside the UFC, and still the only man to win the lightweight and welterweight belts. For nearly a decade, Penn chased greatness anywhere he could in a way that few ever have. That daring made him beloved to fans and respected among his fellow fighters. Even to this day, all time greats like Anderson Silva have called him the greatest fighter ever, and so for this edition of DAMN, host Jed Meshew is joined by MMAFighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti and Eric Jackman to remember their favorite moments from “The Prodigy.” Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Eric Jackman @NewYorkRic Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This week on Between the Links, the MMA Fighting crew is turning the programming over to you, the live viewers, as they banter about your topics in regards to the biggest stories in combat sports. The panel will take your questions all show long about anything you want to talk about in the world of #MMA — including Dana White's response to Francis Ngannou signing with the PFL, the UFC President's comments about Aljamain Sterling and the current bantamweight champion's responses ahead of his UFC 292 title defense against Sean O'Malley in Boston, White saying he'd welcome a Jon Jones vs. Tyson Fury fight inside the octagon, Israel Adesanya's potential opponent for UFC 293 in Sydney, Mackenzie Dern's big win this past weekend and her eye-opening interview on The MMA Hour, and more. Join MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Jed Meshew as they make up the panel on this week's program.  Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

A lot of MMA fans seem to be excited about a potential matchup between Khamzat Chimaev and former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman. With Chimaev recently teasing the matchup himself, and saying it would take place at 170, is that the fight to make? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses the possibility of the fight, it being a potential welterweight fight, and why he isn't going to believe it until he sees it. Additionally, listener questions include the ongoing back-and-forth between UFC President Dana White and bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling, Belal Muhammad recently saying that Colby Covington is nervous he may lose his welterweight title shot against Leon Edwards, if Muhammad should be the one who should be nervous about his placement in the championship picture, a future TV deal to the UFC, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Brasil tem ótimas frentes pelo cinturão dos palhas no UFC, e o Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe as duas. Amanda Lemos, confirmada pelo título, fala da luta com Zhang Weili após abandonar o esporte para virar mototaxista em Belém, e Mackenzie Dern comenta o atropelo em Angela Hill na luta principal do último final de semana. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Brazil has several contenders in UFC's strawweight division, and this week's Trocação Franca welcomes two solid 115ers — Amanda Lemos, next in line for the gold, breaks down has clash with champ Zhang Weili years after quitting the sport to become a motorcycle taxi driver in her hometown, and Mackenzie Dern, who discusses her dominating victory over Angela Hill at this past week's UFC Vegas 73. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel Adesanya is expected to headline the UFC's return to Sydney in September, but with so many fights booked in the middleweight division, along with quick turnaround times being a factor, it seems up in the air as to who Adesanya will face on that card. Will there be a shuffling of the deck, so to speak, or will the UFC give Adesanya a second opportunity to become a two-division champion against Jamahal Hill? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck gives his thoughts on who Adesanya could fight next, the issue with booking Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus Du Plessis two months prior at UFC 290, and making the case for a new lineup of fights at 185 — which includes moving Du Plessis to the title fight with Adesanya in September. Additionally, topics include Dana White's reaction to Francis Ngannou signing with the UFC, White's comments about UFC bantamweight champ Aljamain Sterling, Alex Pereira's move up to 205, when Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington could happen in 2023, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The Fighter vs. The Writer returns with Matt Brown and Damon Martin debating the latest news in MMA including Dana White's comments about the PFL signing Francis Ngannou. This past weekend, White revealed his thoughts on Ngannou joining the PFL roster after he left the UFC in free agency. White stated emphatically that he didn't understand the PFL business model as the company signed Ngannou to a very lucrative deal while struggling to earn TV ratings or sell tickets at events. But did the PFL actually make a bad move signing Ngannou in free agency? Plus, we'll discuss the news that Conor McGregor is officially returning to the UFC's anti-doping program, which should clear the way for him to face off with Michael Chandler later this year. While Brown admits that he's still skeptical about McGregor actually fighting again, one thing he's certain about is the Irish superstar never reaching a championship or even status as a top five ranked fighter in the world again. Finally, we'll discuss the boxing match between Devin Haney and Vasyl Lomachenko from this past weekend and how we scored the fight. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following her eye-opening performance against Angela Hill in the main event of UFC Vegas 73, Mackenzie Dern not only called out Rose Namajunas, but also added that fighting the former champion is "a priority" at this point in her career. Will that be the matchup she gets next after the best performance of her career? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question and give their thoughts on who Dern could face next from a matchmaking perspective. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Anthony Hernandez following his third-round stoppage win over Edmen Shahbazyan in the co-main event, Lupita Godinez after defeating Emily Ducote, along with Joaquin Buckley and Diego Ferreira following their highlight-reek knockout wins, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following Mackenzie Dern's one-sided win over Angela Hill in the main event of UFC Vegas 73, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Jed Meshew, and Alexander K. Lee recap the action from Saturday's card at the UFC APEX. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mackenzie Dern will look to get back on track, while Angela Hill is out to spoil that storyline and pick up her third straight victory in the process in Saturday's UFC headliner in the strawweight division. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee discuss the UFC Vegas 73 main event between Dern and Hill, along with the stakes for both ladies, and if this is a do-or-die fight for Dern as it relates to her championship hopes. Additionally, other bouts on the card will be discussed, including the co-main event between Edmen Shahbazyan and Anthony Hernandez, the low-key banger fight at the UFC's return to the APEX, take some viewer questions, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler are expected to fight following the airing this upcoming season of The Ultimate Fighter, the big questions seem to be when will that fight take place, and will it happen before the end of this year? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck discusses his confidence levels as to when the fight could happen, especially since a lot of the year's pay-per-view events have been announced or targeted. Additionally, listener questions include Francis Ngannou's deal with the PFL, why the PFL's next 12-18 months could be the most interesting story in all of MMA, the UFC middleweight and lightweight divisions, what things could look like if the PFL and Bellator were to actually merge, the UFC's return to Boston in August, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou ended his MMA free agency as the former UFC heavyweight champion signed a new deal with the PFL. While there are still more questions that need to be answered, it appears this move has the potential to be a game changer for the sport. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel reacts to Ngannou's next move, and discuss things from different angles, including some of the remaining questions we have. Additionally, topics include Dana White announcing a bunch of big fights for the upcoming UFC 291 and UFC 292 events — including Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje 2 for the vacant BMF title in Salt Lake City — Saturday's UFC Vegas 73 card headlined by Mackenzie Dern vs. Angela Hill, the new 'McGregor Forever' documentary series on Netflix featuring Conor McGregor, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and José Youngs. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje will battle for the second time inside the octagon in the main event of UFC 291 on July 29 in Salt Lake City for the BMF title. While the premise is there, why is the BMF title on the line, and should the UFC have been more creative with it if they were going to slap a gimmick championship belt on a fight that doesn't need it? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to Dana White's announcement of that massive bout in the lightweight division, along with the rest of the revealed lineup, along with the UFC 292 announcement for Boston in August. Additionally, topics include Francis Ngannou's new deal with the PFL, his boxing options, the potential short turnaround for the Robert Whittaker vs. Dricus Du Plessis winner to face Israel Adesanya in September, Alex Pereira vs. Jan Blachowicz at 205 pounds, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC Vegas 73 takes place this Saturday headlined by a strawweight showdown between Mackenzie Dern and Angela Hill, and you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back to break it all down. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show with a recap of UFC Charlotte before diving into the lackluster card that is UFC Vegas 73. Highlights include debate about the main event, dissension on a couple of other main card fights, and a slew of technical difficulties. But things do get spiced up down the stretch as Conner and Jed react live to the breaking news about UFC 291 and the return of the BMF Belt. Tune in for Episode 46 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou has not only found a new home, but he spoke with Ariel Helwani on The MMA Hour about some of the particulars of his massive deal with the PFL, the naysayers about his free agency, other promoters having their say on his free agency after parting ways with the UFC, and more. While Tuesday was officially a massive win for both Ngannou and the PFL, there are still lingering questions surrounding it all. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Steven Marrocco react to the news and Ngannou's appearance on The MMA Hour, reveal their long-term questions for both the former UFC heavyweight champion and the PFL, the boxing side of the equation, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Steven Marrocco: @MMAFightingSM Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Semana agitada entre os pesos pesados no MMA, e o Trocação Franca recebe Junior Cigano para dissecar os detalhes do histórico acordo de Francis Ngannou com a PFL, que lhe garante milhões e caminho livre para lutar boxe. O podcast entrevista ainda Jailton Malhadinho e Johnny Walker, que brilharam no UFC Charlotte, e Diego Ferreira, que volta ao octógono no próximo sábado. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. It's a busy week for heavyweights in MMA, and Trocação Franca welcomes Junior dos Santos to dissect everything about Francis Ngannou's historic deal with PFL, which guarantees him millions and a free path to boxing. The podcast also features interviews with UFC sensation Jailton Almeida, light heavyweight talent Johnny Walker, and returning lightweight Diego Ferreira. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Francis Ngannou, free agent no more! The former UFC heavyweight champion is officially part of the PFL, with a new deal that makes him not only the most famous fighter on the roster, but an executive in partnership with the league. On this edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee answers all of your questions about the Ngannou-PFL alliance, including potential opponents, why fans were so hard on him during his free agency, whether this move might influence UFC stars to demand more from their promotion, how this might affect the PFL's bottom line, and more. Plus, have we entered a world where Conor McGregor vs. Matt Brown is possible, what are Jailton Almeida's limitations, who could be the breakout stars of UFC Vegas 73, what's next for Ian Machado Garry, and where in the world is Khamzat Chimaev? You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee  Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

The long wait for Francis Ngannou's free agent decision is over as the former UFC heavyweight champion announced Tuesday that he is the newest member of the PFL roster and the chairman of the league's PFL Africa expansion. Ngannou's signing ends a 16-month wait to see where the Cameroonian-French star would take his talents. He fought his last fight at UFC 270 and then officially parted ways with the UFC this past January amid plenty of speculation as to what lay ahead for him: A mega boxing match with Tyson Fury? Would he simply head over to another top MMA promotion? Will he ever fight Jon Jones? Add in that Ngannou's rift with the UFC was due to wanting several unprecedented contract stipulations and it's fair to say that he was the most intriguing free agent in MMA history. MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and Jed Meshew react to the breaking news, grade the deal for Ngannou and the PFL, discuss whether criticism of Ngannou's decisions were justified, and what this means for other UFC stars who may want to explore life outside of the octagon. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following a stunning first-round knockout over Court McGee at UFC Charlotte, Matt Brown returns to The Fighter vs. The Writer to discuss his victory and his record tying achievement. After more than a year out of action, Brown made a thunderous return to the octagon where he earned his 13th career knockout after putting McGee away with a single punch. The finish tied Brown with Derrick Lewis for the most knockouts in UFC history — a record he would love to break one day in the near future. Brown also discusses the possibility of fighting Conor McGregor after the Irish superstar talked about his record on Saturday and how he intends to break it before he retires from competition. In response, Brown said he'll fight McGregor for that record — and it turns out he was serious about pursuing that matchup. Brown and MMA Fighting senior reporter Damon Martin are joined by longtime friend and morning radio show host Jeremy Loper on the latest episode after previously co-hosting several podcasts together alongside UFC legend Mark “The Hammer” Coleman. We'll discuss the rest of UFC Charlotte and what's next for Brown on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Is Jailton Almeida in a position where his next octagon appearance could be for some sort of UFC championship following his dominant first-round submission victory over Jairzinho Rozenstruik in the main event of UFC Charlotte?   On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question from a matchmaking perspective after Almeida's impressive win streak got extended to 14 with short work of Rozenstruik. Additionally, future matchups are made for Johnny Walker following his decision win over Anthony Smith in the co-main event, Ian Machado Garry after his breakout finish of Daniel Rodriguez in the welterweight featured matchup, along with fellow event winners Carlos Ulberg, Alex Morono, and more.  Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jailton Almeida made it looks incredibly easy in his first UFC main event as he submitted Jairzinho Rozenstruik in the first round at UFC Charlotte. How close is the surging Almeida to a UFC heavyweight championship opportunity? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew react to Almeida's sensational performance in the main event, discuss where he goes from here, and what — if anything — did we learn about Almeida. Additionally, they discuss Johnny Walker's decision win over Anthony Smith in the co-main event and how much of an impact the performance has on the division, Ian Machado Garry's fantastic first-round finish of Daniel Rodriguez, the controversy surrounding the preliminary fights between Ji Yeon Kim and Mandy Bohm, along with Douglas Silva de Andrade vs. Cody Stamann, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jairzinho Rozenstruik will look to stop the incredible hype of Jailton Almeida and pull off a massive upset in the process at Saturday's UFC Charlotte fight card, but if he can't, how high up the ladder will Almeida go in the UFC's heavyweight division? MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, José Youngs, and Alexander K. Lee get you ready for the UFC's return to ABC and discuss the main event matchup between Rozenstruik and Almeida, and what is at stake for both guys. Additionally, they'll discuss the co-main event between Anthony Smith and Johnny Walker, the intriguing featured bout in the welterweight division between Daniel Rodriguez and Ian Machado Garry, other notable storylines, and more.  Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC President Dana White said after UFC 288 that he hopes to have Aljamain Sterling make a quick turnaround to defend his bantamweight title against Sean O'Malley at the UFC's return to Boston in August. With Sterling eyeing a fall date with O'Malley, if the UFC can't get that fight on the books, then what should be the main event for that card? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck attempts to answer that question and makes the case for Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington for the welterweight title in that spot. Additionally, listener questions include what could be next for Jamahal Hill and the light heavyweight title if Jiri Prochazka needs to miss a lot more time, Henry Cejudo vs. Merab Dvalishvili, UFC Charlotte storylines, Daniel Rodriguez vs. Ian Machado Garry, ONE Championship's U.S. debut, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling continues to add notches to his already impressive resume, this time, defeating former two-division UFC champ Henry Cejudo in the main event of UFC 288 this past Saturday. What did the win do for Sterling's legacy, and where does Cejduo go from here? On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the fallout of the bantamweight title fight from this past weekend, along with the upcoming Sterling vs. Sean O'Malley fight that appears to be next. Additionally, topics include Belal Muhammad's big win over Gilbert Burns and if Dana White, or Colby Covington is more believable when it comes to Muhammad's next move, the low-key MVP from this past weekend, if the Jake Paul vs. Nate Diaz press conference from earlier this week changed excitement levels for the August boxing match, UFC Charlotte and Bellator Paris this weekend, and more. Host Mike Heck moderates the matchup between MMA Fighting's Jed Meshew and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On Tuesday, Jake Paul and Nate Diaz went face-to-face for the first time since their Aug. 5 boxing match was announced following a press conference in Dallas. With how everything went down, did the presser do anything to get you more excited for the fight? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck reacts to the press conference, and gives his thoughts on how everything went down. Additionally, listener topics include the latest slate of UFC main events, Jiri Prochazka's potential return to fight Jamahal Hill, what a plan b could be for the light heavyweight division, the UFC 290 lineup in July, Amanda Nunes' legacy, the UFC's return to Boston in August, Merab Dvalishvili's viral theft of Sean O'Malley's jacket, Jailton Almeida vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik this Saturday at UFC Charlotte, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC Charlotte takes place this Saturday headlined by a heavyweight showdown between Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Jailton Almeida, and you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back to break it all down. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show with a recap where Conner finally got things on track for 2023, while Jed is forced to contemplate the very real possibility that he is a jinx. Then it's on to the UFC Charlotte where Conner and Jed end up in agreement about most of the fights this week. Highlights include Conner's continued love affair with Jailton Almeida, some Atlanta love for Karl Williams, and ChatGPt looking to go back-to-back on co-main event cashes. Plus, Jed teaches Conner about some very important trivia for this week's event. Tune in for Episode 45 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC welterweight contender Colby Covington joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss the latest on his upcoming title fight with Leon Edwards, eyeing August, why having the bout in Abu Dhabi doesn't make sense to him, having dinner with Dana White recently, Jorge Masvidal's retirement, Belal Muhammad's UFC 288 win over Gilbert Burns, wanting future fights with current lightweight champ Islam Makhachev and Israel Adesanya, what advice he would give to Aljamain Sterling following his win over Henry Cejudo, and more.  Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Trocação Franca dessa semana traz a história de Jailton Malhadinho, promessa do Brasil entre os pesos pesados que lidera o card de sábado do UFC em Charlotte, EUA, contra Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Malhadinho falou da vida, como trocou os gramados pelos ringues, o desaparecimento do irmão, altos e baixos no MMA e muito mais. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Johnny Walker, Douglas Lima, Diego Lopes e Tainara Lisboa. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca returns with the story of heavyweight sensation Jailton Almeida, who headlines Saturday's UFC Charlotte event opposite Jairzinho Rozenstruik. Almeida discusses his life story, how he left soccer for fighting, losing his brother, the highs and lows of MMA, and much more. The podcast also features interviews with Johnny Walker, Douglas Lima, Diego Lopes, and Tainara Lisboa. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling defeated Henry Cejudo in the main event of UFC 288 this past Saturday to retain his bantamweight championship, and becoming the first champion in the division to defend the belt three consecutive times. Sterling is now on a collision course with Sean O'Malley in a massive bout at 135. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck recaps UFC 288, along with Sterling's big win over Cejudo and how the fight was scored, and the upcoming matchup with O'Malley. Additionally, listener questions include Belal Muhammad's win over Gilbert Burns, if he'll get a title shot in his next fight, Yan Xiaonan's finish of Jessica Andrade and a potential championship bout with Zhang Weili, Kron Gracie's performance, Movsar Evloev's future, and more. Plus, Bellator middleweight Fabian Edwards joins the program to preview his Bellator Paris main event matchup with Gegard Mousasi, discuss his thoughts on champion Johnny Eblen, his brother Leon Edwards' mindset when it comes to a potential fight with Colby Covington, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chaos reigns as Shaun Al-Shatti and Alexander K. Lee are joined by their good pals Jed Meshew and Damon Martin to tie up some loose ends for UFC 288, debate where Henry Cejudo falls in the bantamweight division after his split decision loss around (5:36), whether Cejudo vs. Merab is the next move around (26:40), make sense of AK's obscene disrespect for Aljamain Sterling in the pound-for-pound ranks around (30:47), plus Belal Muhammad's rise into the welterweight top 5 around (43:18). Then, the gang dons their best Sean Shelby cosplay to rank the top 3 most interesting opponents for a Jon Jones retirement fight around (53:30). Follow Shaun Al-Shatti @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee @AlexanderKLee Follow Damon Martin @DamonMartin Follow Jed Meshew @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Following UFC 288 this past weekend, Alan Jouban and Cory Sandhagen join The Fighter vs. The Writer to break down everything that unfolded in New Jersey. Aljamain Sterling successful defended his bantamweight title with a split decision win over Henry Cejudo and Jouban will detail what he believes went right and went wrong for both fighters. Jouban will also give his thoughts on Sean O'Malley's chances to dethrone Sterling as the next title contender at 135 pounds. We'll also discuss Belal Muhammad's win over Gilbert Burns and his place in the welterweight division after going undefeated in his past 10 consecutive fights. Plus Jouban reacts to Kron Gracie's bizarre performance and what should come next for him. As for Sandhagen, he'll give his report from sitting cageside at UFC 288 and what he thought about Sterling getting the job done against the former two-division champion. He'll also react to Cejudo calling for a fight against Merab Dvalishvili — the exact opponent Sandhagen has also been targeting. All this and more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer! Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

While Aljamain Sterling will likely have his next UFC bantamweight title defense this summer — at least, according to Dana White — following his UFC 288 main event win, where does Henry Cejudo go after falling short in his comeback bid? Was that the final fight for the storied career of "Triple C"? On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck and Alexander K. Lee attempt to answer that question. And if Cejudo were to stick around, what would be the matchup to make? Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Belal Muhammad after his dominant decision victory in the co-main event, Gilbert Burns after being on the wrong end of the scorecards, Yan Xiaonan following her incredible finish of Jessica Andrade, along with Movsar Evloev, Charles Jourdain, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling made history on Saturday by becoming the first UFC bantamweight champion to defend their title three consecutive times in the main event of UFC 288, and spoiled the long-awaited return of former two-division champion Henry Cejudo in the process during the UFC's return to Newark, N.J. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Shaheen Al-Shatti, and Jed Meshew react to Sterling's victory over Cejudo, discuss how they scored the 135-pound championship bout, if that was Cejudo's final fight, and the more-than-likely next championship bout between Sterling and Sean O'Malley. Additionally, topics include Belal Muhammad's dominant decision win over Gilbert Burns in the five-round co-main event, if Muhammad's next fight will actually be for the welterweight title, Yan Xiaonan's show-stealing finish of Jessica Andrade, Matt Frevola's massive stoppage win over Drew Dober, and more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Relive the magic of UFC 288's live watch party with Mike Heck, Conner Burks, plus a few special guests! Check out the original UFC 288 Watch Party video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsJojRyjzog Charles Jourdain vs. Kron Gracie (32:16) Jourdain defeats Gracie reaction (56:03) Opening Chronicles card packs part 1 (1:03:56) Movsar Evloev vs. Diego Lopes (1:08:00) Lopes nearly finishes armbar on Evloev in first (1:12:00) Lopes gets Evloev in trouble again (1:24:52) Lopes goes for last second submission for major upset (1:26:04) Evloev gets unanimous decision win (1:28:00) Opening Chronicles card packs part 2 (1:32:27) Jessica Andrade vs. Yan Xiaonan (1:44:10) Yan Xiaonan knocks out Jessica Andrade reaction (1:49:08) Xbox battle - Burns vs. Muhammad (1:54:52) Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad Reaction to Muhammad unanimous decision win and post-fight interview (2:38:40) Rob Font joins show (2:47:35) Font reacts to our reaction to his UFC 287 win over Adrian Yanez (2:48:24) Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo (2:54:25) Reaction to Sterling's split decision win (3:29:30) Reaction to Sterling's post-fight interview, face-to-face with Sean O'Malley (3:31:20) Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Aljamain Sterling puts his UFC bantamweight championship on the line against Henry Cejudo in the former two-division titleholder's first bout in over three years in the main event of Saturday's UFC 288 event. With so many burning questions on both sides, the fight's intrigue continues to grow. MMA Fighting's Mike Heck, Alexander K. Lee, and José Youngs get you ready for UFC 288 and discuss the Sterling vs. Cejudo main event, what is on the line besides championship gold, who needs the win more, where Cejudo would go with a loss, and more. Additionally, topics include the five-round co-main event between Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad, why the fight has created some mixed feelings amongst the team, other intriguing matchups, the low-key storylines and fights from the card, and much more. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On the eve of UFC 288, the anticipation levels and the amount of questions continue to rise ahead of Aljamain Sterling's upcoming title defense against the returning Henry Cejudo, Gilbert Burns battling Belal Muhammad in the co-main event, and more. On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck answers your questions about some of the burning storylines heading into Saturday's pay-per-view card in Newark, N.J. Additionally, listener questions include where Kron Gracie goes, win or lose, following his fight with Charles Jourain, Gracie's demeanor during the fight week, the UFC 289 lineup as it currently stands, the UFC's lightweight divisions, fantasy matchmaking a BKFC card using only UFC fighters, if there's anyone that can beat Jon Jones right now, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With BKFC stealing headlines this past weekend with BKFC 41, all eyes are now on a busy weekend in the MMA world — which included the UFC's next pay-per-view offering. On an all-new edition of Between the Links, the panel will discuss the fallout of BKFC 41, Mike Perry's big win over Luke Rockhold, and the future of the promotion. Additionally, topics include the UFC 288 fight card, the main event for the bantamweight title between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo, the stakes in the Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad co-main event, Francis Ngannou's fighting future and current free agency status, Jon Jones saying he'll stick around for a fight with Ngannou after he faces Stipe Miocic, ONE Championship's U.S. debut on Friday, and more. This week, host Mike Heck returns to moderate the matchup between MMA Fighting's Shaheen Al-Shatti and Jed Meshew. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 288 going down in just two days, the winner of the bantamweight championship main event between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejduo will likely already have his next fight set with Sean O'Malley. But where does the loser of that fight go, and what if Cejudo is the one that doesn't get his hand raised after three years away? On an-all new edition of Heck of a Morning, MMA Fighting's Mike Heck returns to the host's chair to discuss the potential fallout of Saturday's headliner between Sterling and Cejudo, as well as fantasy matchmaking the co-main event between Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad. Additionally, listener questions include the UFC having "top-heavy" pay-per-view cards coming up over the next month, Mike Perry's star power with BKFC following his BKFC 41 win over Luke Rockhold, where BKFC can go in the future with a potential TV deal upcoming, Jon Jones suggesting his fight with Stipe Miocic will be his last, and much more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

UFC play-by-play voice Jon Anik joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to preview Saturday's UFC 288 event, the main event between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo, the burning questions surrounding Cejudo's return, Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad, Nate Diaz's incident in New Orleans and his scheduled boxing match with Jake Paul, Jon Jones' future, and more. *Note: Interview took place prior to removal of Bryce Mitchell from UFC 288, and Deiveson Figueiredo from UFC 290. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former UFC competitor Jorge Masvidal joins MMA Fighting's Mike Heck to discuss Nate Diaz's recent incident in New Orleans, the UFC 288 matchup between Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad, Dana White being steadfast about rival Colby Covington getting a title shot next, his Gamebred Bareknuckle card this Friday in Sunrise, Fla., Roy Nelson's return to competition, and more. *Note: Interview was done prior to Panthers defeating the Bruins in seven games. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's another UFC pay-per-view weekend and so you know what that means: the No Bets Barred boys are back to break down all their favorite plays for UFC 288 and the bantamweight title fight between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo. Co-hosts Conner Burks and Jed Meshew begin the show with a brief recap of UFC Vegas 72, lamenting a dreadful flyweight under loss, before diving into the 14-fight card that is UFC 288. The biggest topic of conversation is the title fight and Henry Cejudo's chances at overcoming a jarring statistical trend, but the boys also get into the five-round co-main event between Belal Muhammad and Gilbert Burns, the return of Kron Gracie, and of course, a heavyweight over and a flyweight under. Tune in for Episode 44 of No Bets Barred. Follow Conner Burks: @connerburks Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

O Trocação Franca dessa semana recebe pela primeira vez a lenda Kron Gracie, que retorna ao octógono após quase quatro anos sábado, em Nova Jérsei. O filho de Rickson abre o jogo sobre o tempo parado, o que mudou em sua vida e o que gostaria de ver diferente no UFC, as lições contra Cub Swanson, o duelo com Charles Jourdain, e muito mais. O podcast traz, ainda, entrevistas com Marlon Moraes, Jessica Bate-Estaca, Roberto Satoshi e Virna Jandiroba. O melhor do MMA brasileiro no Trocação Franca, toda semana, com o jornalista Guilherme Cruz e convidados. Trocação Franca welcomes for the first time the legend Kron Gracie, who returns to the octagon after nearly four years this weekend in New Jersey. The son of Rickson opens up on his time away, what changed in his life and what changes he'd like to see in the UFC, lessons learned against Cub Swanson, his upcoming clash with Charles Jourdain, and more. The podcast also features interviews with Marlon Moraes, Jessica Andrade, Roberto Satoshi, and Virna Jandiroba. Listen to Trocação Franca with Guilherme Cruz every week to hear from the biggest names on the hottest topics in the Brazilian combat sports world. Follow Guilherme Cruz @Guicruzzz Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It's BKFC's world, we're just living in it. Yes, UFC Vegas 72 happened and Song Yadong shined, but it was hard to beat the star power of BKFC 42, which featured Mike Perry, Luke Rockhold, Eddie Alvarez, Chad Mendes and, somehow, Conor McGregor! What's next for the leading bare-knuckle promotion? On an all-new edition of Heck of a Morning, guest host Alexander K. Lee ponders what other MMA stars would be an ideal fit for the BKFC and whether Gamebred Promotions' upcoming event this Friday can benefit from the bare-knuckle buzz. Additionally, topics include where Kamaru Usman now stands in the contender line, whether Israel Adesanya reclaiming his throne takes the air out of the middleweight division, thoughts on the main event and potential sleeper fight at UFC 288, Paul Craig moving to 185, Amanda Lemos in the title picture, what's going on with Francis Ngannou, media row randos, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With UFC 288 just days away, reigning bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling and co-main event fighters Gilbert Burns and Belal Muhammad join The Fighter vs. The Writer. Sterling will address his upcoming fight against Henry Cejudo while revealing that he is “very likely” done at bantamweight with two more fights as he plans to move up to 145 pounds with hopes that his friend and teammate Merab Dvalishvili will get a shot at the bantamweight title once he's gone. Meanwhile, Burns and Muhammad will document how they ended up in the co-main event on less than two weeks' notice after UFC 288 lost the fight between Beneil Dariush and Charles Oliveira. Burns details his decision to fight again after just recently stating that he was only interested in a title shot for his next bout while Muhammad talks Colby Covington and his hope to earn his own opportunity to compete for UFC gold with a win on Saturday. All this and much more on the latest episode of The Fighter vs. The Writer. Subscribe: Apple Podcasts Subscribe: Spotify Read More: MMA Fighting Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Song Yadong made a statement on Saturday, putting on a commanding performance to deny the surging Ricky Simon a jump up in the rankings. Where does Song go after UFC Vegas 72 as he looks to make his own moves in the loaded bantamweight division? Also, the BKFC may have stolen the show with their Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold main event, which included a post-fight appearance from the one and only Conor McGregor. On an all-new edition of On To the Next One, MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee and special guest Jed Meshew discuss what should be next for Song and whether he may have earned the fight everyone else is afraid to take. Plus where does Mike Perry after BKFC 41 as he continues his unbeaten bare-knuckle run. Additionally, future matchups are discussed for Caio Borralho, Rodolfo Vieira, Fernando Padilla, Marcos Rogerio de Lima, Trey Waters, and more following the promotion's latest card at the APEX. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

MMA Fighting's José Youngs, Steven Marracco, and E. Casey Leydon react to Eddie Alvarez's thrilling split decision win in his BKFC debut, Chad Mendes' retirement, Mike Perry's strange TKO win over Luke Rockhold, Conor McGregor's appearance inside the BKFC, and more.  The three also look back on Song Yadong's fifth-round KO win over Ricky Simón in the main event of UFC Vegas 72. Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Steven Marrocco: @MMAFightingSM Follow E. Casey Leydon: @ekc Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

With Mike Perry and Luke Rockhold running wild and enchanting hearts and minds, is this the rare weekend where the UFC doesn't have the best event of the combat sports slate? MMA Fighting's Shaun Al-Shatti, Alexander K. Lee, and Jed Meshew discuss Saturday's BKFC 41 offering, the hilarity of Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold, plus the rest of a surprisingly compelling card that features Chad Mendes vs. Eddie Alvarez, the return of “Big” Ben Rothwell, and much more. The crew also hits upon UFC Vegas 72, the stakes in Song Yadong vs. Ricky Simon, what's next for the winner, Caio Borralho's continued existence in UFC co-main events, any low-key bangers from the card, and more. Follow Shaun Al-Shatti: @ShaunAlShatti Follow Alexander K. Lee: @AlexanderKLee Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

It sounds like the people have decided: Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold at BKFC 42 is the fight of the weekend. The UFC veterans have engaged in some truly hilarious shenanigans in the lead-up to their bare-knuckle battle and all that's left to see is if this freak show fight turns out as freaky as advertised. That's a fitting discussion for this Free-For-All-Friday edition of Heck of a Morning with guest host Alexander K. Lee, who answers questions not only about BKFC 42 and UFC Vegas 72, but a slew of random topics including how the remainder of the NBA Playoffs is likely to play out (and who you'll see in the Finals), adventures in vegetarian cooking, and the brilliance of Paul Thomas Anderson, as well as fighting business like whether a Gilbert Burns vs. Belal Muhammad stinker will remove both men from the UFC welterweight title picture, what pair of friends do we wish we'd seen meet inside the cage, and more. You can listen live to Heck of a Morning Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays at 10 a.m. ET on the MMA Fighting Twitter Spaces. Follow Mike Heck: @MikeHeck_JR Follow Alexander K. Lee:  @alexanderklee Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Nate Diaz made headlines yet again this weekend when the Stockton native found himself in a Bourbon Street Brawl that resulted in one would-be influencer getting choked out in the streets. Mike Heck is off this week so Jed Meshew steps in to host an all-new edition of Between the Links, where the panel discusses Nate Diaz's street fighting and pending arrest, plus, does this put Nate's fight with Jake Paul in jeopardy? Additionally, the crew debates Sergei Pavlovich's big win at UFC Vegas 71, Patchy Mix's place in the bantamweight hierarchy, Gervonta Davis' big win over Ryan Garcia, and the weekend ahead with BKFC 41 and UFC Vegas 72, and more. Guest host Jed Meshew moderates the matchup between MMAFighting's José Youngs and Morning Kombat's Brian Campbell. Follow Jed Meshew: @JedKMeshew Follow José Youngs: @JoseYoungs Follow Brian Campbell: @BCampbell Subscribe: http://goo.gl/dYpsgH Check out our full video catalog: http://goo.gl/u8VvLi Visit our playlists: http://goo.gl/eFhsvM Like MMAF on Facebook: http://goo.gl/uhdg7Z Follow on Twitter: http://goo.gl/nOATUI Read More: http://www.mmafighting.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices