The Man and the MITH: A show about MMA

Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris record their final episode of The Man and the MITH together to reflect on the show coming to an abrupt end and thank the listeners for all their support over the last year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck break down UFC 250, starting at the top of the card in the main event between the Women's MMA GOAT, Amanda Nunes, and Felecia Spencer for the Women's Featherweight crown, and then the co-main event matchup featuring former Bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt and perennial contender Raphael Assuncao. The guys continue on with a preview of the rest of the main card, including a very intriguing Aljamain Sterling vs. Cory Sandhagen number one contender bout at 135, asking their respective One Big Question for each fight, and make their picks, including a Lock of the Night. And, as usual, they close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Join The Man and the MITH for their UFC 250 Post-Fight show immediately following Saturday night's main event on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck recap all the action from Saturday night at the UFC Apex, starting with Gilbert Burns's domination of former Welterweight champion Tyron Woodley in the main event, whether he should fight current champ Kamaru Usman next, if this is the beginning of the end for Woodley or not, and more. Then, the guys discuss the best of the rest of the action including Billy Quarantillo vs. Spike Carlyle, Mackenzie Dern's record-setting kneebar victory over Hannah Cifers, and big wins for Jamahal Hill, Casey Kenny, Brandon Royval, and Katlyn Chookagian. Finally, the guys close the show with a discussion about the quickly-escalating Jon Jones-Dana White war of words, as well as the likelihood that Jon really does vacate his Light Heavyweight belt. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris preview the UFC's return to Las Vegas at the Apex this weekend as former Welterweight champion Tyron Woodley battles the surging Gilbert Burns in the headliner and give their thoughts on what to expect from Woodley after a fifteen-month layoff following a tough loss to current champ Kamaru Usman, “Durinho” potentially sneaking his way into the title picture at 170, and how the smaller Octagon could impact the fight. Plus, highlights from the rest of the card, including Mackenzie Dern's matchup against Hannah Cifers. After the break, the guys run through a number of headlines including the recently announced Joseph Benavidez-Deiveson Figueiredo 2 and Dustin Poirier-Dan Hooker fights, Henry Cejudo officially being removed from the rankings, and vacating the Bantamweight title, Colby Covington's departure from ATT, thoughts on Conor McGregor's GOAT list, and where he fits in, and the UFC trademarking “UFSEA”. And, as always, the guys close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck welcome Easton Training Center owner and head coach of the Elevation Fight Team, Eliot Marshall, to the show and discuss the culture and structure of training for the team, Justin Gaethje's technical improvement under Trevor Wittman, whether he prefers a Khabib or Conor McGregor matchup next for Justin, Drew Dober's big leap forward over his last several fights, particularly against Alexander Hernandez, why Alistair Overeem has been able to continue competing at a high-level now into his forties, Cory Sandhagen's next fight, being able to use the word “failure” without being personally attached to it, and much more. First, The Athletic MMA's own Josh Gross joins the show to debate whether Jon Jones should fight Francis Ngannou next or not, how the fight might play out, the odds that it actually happens, and more. And, the guys hand out their second-ever unanimous Interim Title of the Week to close the show. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck recap another eventful night in Jacksonville as the UFC completed its third event in a little over a week after returning from a prolonged coronavirus hiatus, including Alistair Overeem's comeback win over Walt Harris, himself returning to the Octagon following a terrible personal tragedy, The Reem's longevity in MMA, and his place in the Heavyweight division, as well as Harris's ability to stay focused and perform well, despite the loss. Then, the guys give their thoughts on the best of the rest of the card and the notably questionable decisions in the Claudia Gadelha-Angela Hill, Dan Ige-Edson Barboza, and Song Yadong-Chito Vera fights. Plus, a look back at Kevin Randleman's career and thoughts on his entry into the UFC Hall of Fame, and to close the show, the guys name their three Justin Gaethje Pandemic All-Stars, given to the trio of fighters who impressed the most over the course of the trilogy of Jacksonville cards. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck recap a rare midweek event as Glover Teixeira put himself back into the Light Heavyweight title mix with a brutal win over Anthony Smith and discuss whether Lionheart's corner should've thrown in the towel, if Glover's career resurgence is for real, and more. Then, the guys talk about Drew Dober's breakout performance against Alexander Hernandez, and who makes sense for him next, Ben Rothwell's callout of Alexei Oleinik, OSP's potential at Heavyweight, Jon Jones and Francis Ngannou going back and forth on Twitter, hinting at a potential future fight, another frustrating Michael Johnson loss, friend of the show Brian Kelleher continuing his winning ways as a Contender Series Slayer, and his callout of Sean O'Malley, and Andrei Arlovski's uncanny ability to continue fighting at a high level for the last two decades. Plus, a discussion about Conor McGregor's post-UFC 249 tweetstorm, and if Justin Gaethje should fight him or Khabib next, a UFC Fight Night: Overeem vs. Harris preview, and as always to close the show, the guys hand out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck break down all the action from UFC 249 starting with Justin Gaethje's brilliant performance against Tony Ferguson en route to the interim Lightweight title, what could be next for El Cucuy, and whether he'll be a changed fighter going forward. Next, the guys talk about Henry Cejudo's impressive win over Dominick Cruz, the legitimacy of Triple C's retirement, Cruz accusing referee Keith Peterson of smelling like “alcohol and cigarettes”, and what could be next for the former Bantamweight champ. Then, the guys discuss Francis Ngannou's twenty-second demolition of Jairzinho Rozenstruik, his status as the Heavyweight division's heir apparent, Stipe-DC 3, and Calvin Kattar's breakout performance against Jermey Stephens. Plus, undercard highlights including Bryce Mitchell's twister-filled drubbing of Charles Rosa, the Vicente Luque-Niko Price bloodbath, and Showtime Pettis out-striking a game Cowboy Cerrone. And, the guys close the show with a quick preview of Wednesday night's card, featuring Anthony Smith vs. Glover Teixeira in the main event. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.comMATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck give their immediate analysis following Justin Gaethje's master class victory over Tony Ferguson for the interim Lightweight title in the main event, Henry Cejudo's surprise retirement following a second round stoppage of Dominick Cruz to retain his Bantamweight strap in the co-main, Francis Ngannou's thunderous twenty-second KO of Jairzinho Rozenstruik, and more. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck first break down the two title fights headlining UFC 249, the main event between two of MMA's most feared assassins, Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje, for the interim Lightweight belt, and then the co-main event between Bantamweight champion Henry Cejudo and the returning, original divisional landlord, Dominick Cruz. The guys continue on with a preview of the rest of the main card, asking their respective One Big Question for each fight, and make their picks, including a Lock of the Night. And, as usual, they close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Join The Man and the MITH for their UFC 249 Post-Fight show immediately following Saturday night's main event right here on The Athletic, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck are joined by Justin Gaethje's head coach and trainer, Trevor Wittman, to discuss Justin's headlining bout against Tony Ferguson for the interim Lightweight title at UFC 249, the unique lead-up to the fight set to take place inside an empty arena, Justin's mindset throughout this whole process, the emotional roller coaster of cornering someone like Justin Gaethje, game-planning against Tony Ferguson's unpredictability, and much more. Plus, the guys each highlight the matchup they're most intrigued by on the stacked UFC 249 undercard, making their picks, and their respective Lock of the Night, along the way. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris open up the mailbag a little over a week before live MMA fights begin again and answer some great listener questions: any fighters you weren't necessarily a fan of early on win you over? If you could book a rematch of any UFC fight in history, what would it be? Is there any fighter that gives you anxiety to watch? Which fighter would you like to see compete at a higher weightclass in their prime? Jordan or LeBron? If you could place one fighter from history in their prime into today's UFC, who would it be? What one MMA trade would you make? What's the best cross-division fight you can make right now? … and more! Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a return to fighting at UFC 249 fast approaches, Shaun and Chuck dedicate this episode to the two men headlining the event, Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje. First, the guys take a look back at three of Justin Gaethje's most important fights, a Lightweight title defense against Luis Palomino at WSOF 19, his UFC debut against Michael Johnson at the TUF 25 Finale, and his first professional loss to Eddie Alvarez at UFC 218, and discuss what each of these bouts taught us about “The Highlight” both in the moment and in retrospect. Then, the guys compare and contrast the records of Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson to determine who has the better resume, as well as decide if an “El Cucuy” victory over Justin Gaethje next week changes the equation at all. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris continue on to the second edition of their MMA Global Redraft, this time featuring fighters from the Welterweight division, picking eight active contenders from any promotion, plus two legend picks, over the course of a ten-round snake draft. Plus, the guys recap the results of their Lightweight division redraft and close the show, as always, by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck are joined by former UFC Lightweight champion, Frankie “The Answer” Edgar, to take a look back and give his insights on being involved in one of the sport's best trilogies against Gray Maynard. Plus, Frankie talks about his possible Octagon return against Aljamain Sterling, and more. First, the guys break down all the three fights, starting at UFC Fight Night 13, continuing through UFC 125, and ending at UFC 136, and discuss what the trilogy means for each fighter's legacy, its impact on the history of the Lightweight division, where it ranks amongst all-time great trilogies, and much more. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck talk about the UFC targeting a new, stacked card for May 9 at a yet-to-be-disclosed location and discuss whether this event feels more feasible than UFC 249, which was set for April 18, Tony Ferguson vs. Justin Gaethje headlining, the seemingly out-of-whack betting odds on whether the event will actually happen or not, and more. Then, the guys run through their first ever MMA Global Redraft featuring fighters from the Lightweight division, picking five current 55ers from any promotion, plus one legend pick, over the course of a six round snake draft. And, as always, the guys close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck discuss the cancelation of UFC 249, four days removed from Disney pulling the plug on the event, how things could've played out differently if Dana White and the UFC had taken the total opposite approach, the vitriol towards the MMA media from fans, if a Conor McGregor-headlined event in July is the right time to kick things off again, Fight Island as a feasible plan, and whether or not everything was worth it if it means Khabib-Ferguson is going to happen after all. Plus, the guys talk about Dominick Cruz's potential return to the Octagon against Henry Cejudo for the Bantamweight title with Jose Aldo quarantined in Brazil, Chris Weidman revealing he accepted eventually-scrapped fights against Edmen Shahbazyan and Yoel Romero, and Ronda Rousey's recent comments about “ungrateful” WWE fans. And, the guys close the show with a quick discussion about one of the worst cards in UFC history, UFC 149, and reimagine the event if everything that got canceled had stayed intact. Help out the show and save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this emergency edition of the The Man and the MITH, Shaun and Chuck are joined by The Athletic MMA's managing editor, Dann Stupp, and senior writer, Ben Fowlkes, to give their immediate reactions to the sudden cancelation of UFC 249, after the heads of Disney and ESPN told Dana White to stand down, a little over a week away from the event. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris flash back to UFC 199 and revisit one of MMA's most incredible upsets with Michael Bisping stepping into the main event on two-weeks' notice and knocking out Luke Rockhold to capture the Middleweight title, as well as Dominick Cruz successfully defending his Bantamweight crown in a trilogy fight against his longtime rival Urijah Faber in the co-main event, Max Holloway putting on eye-opening performance against Ricardo Lamas, featuring an all-time classic throwdown in the final ten seconds of round three, Dan Henderson's vicious stoppage of Hector Lombard, and more. Plus, the guys discuss other undercard highlights, Dan Henderson's legacy, the highly entertaining and disrespectful post-fight press conference, the greatest what ifs and big picture takes, what's aged the best and worst in retrospect, including Dana White's now-infamous MMAFighting ban, the MVP of the night, and much more. And, to close the show, the guys hand out their first ever unanimous Interim Title of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck react in real time to the breaking news that Tony Ferguson and Justin Gaethje will headline UFC 249 from “somewhere on Earth” for the interim Lightweight title on April 18 and discuss whether or not this event should even be happening, what this means for the uber-jinxed Khabib-Ferguson title fight, pay-per-view implications, and much more. Before that, the guys kick off the show talking about the continuing saga that is Khabib vs. Tony Ferguson, Dana White getting trolled by the fake Ariel Helwani Twitter account, internet chatter calling for Khabib to be stripped of his 155 belt, and more. Plus, the guys discuss Dana White's recently revealed extortion case, TJ Dillashaw saying he has was promised a title fight upon his return from suspension, and Cody Garbrandt planning a move to Flyweight after his fight against Raphael Assuncao. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck react to Jon Jones reaching a plea deal that allows him to avoid jail time stemming from his very recent DWI arrest and discuss the surprisingly speedy resolution to the case, what this means for Jon's fighting future, and his remarkable ability to avoid serious consequences for his repeated transgressions. Then, the guys go over a few recent news items, including Bellator announcing the cancellation of their next three events through the end of May, fighters from the scrapped UFC London card slowly starting to reveal that they've been paid for their efforts in the lead-up to the cancelled event, and the murmurs about the UFC potentially heading straight to a Khabib-Conor rematch instead of rebooking the Khabib-Ferguson fight. Plus, the guys close out the show by answering more listener questions and handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck discuss the apparent demise of yet another Khabib Nurmagomedov-Tony Ferguson fight as the UFC's Lightweight champion is stuck at home in Dagestan, Russia, unable to return to the United States, or anywhere else in the world, for the matchup at a still-indeterminate venue, the UFC still trying to move ahead with UFC 249 despite losing its main event, Dana White's jabs at the MMA media and his decision-making during the coronavirus pandemic, and more. Then, the guys discuss Jon Jones's arrest last week in Albuquerque, New Mexico on several charges including driving under the influence and negligent use of a firearm, if Jon will once again be stripped of his UFC Light Heavyweight title, whether the police bodycam footage of the arrest should've been released or not, what this might mean for guys like Dominick Reyes, Thiago Santos, and Jan Blachowicz, and more. And, finally, Shaun and Chuck end the show on a lighter note, breaking down some of their favorite moments from the Netflix documentary sweeping the quarantined nation, Tiger King. Don't have a subscription to The Athletic? Subscribe for the year and save 40% when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris look back at one of the greatest events in MMA history, UFC 189, revisiting the final six fights of the night, culminating in two title bouts, the first being an all-time classic between Robbie Lawler and Rory MacDonald for the Welterweight strap in the co-main event and the second being a late-notice clash of styles between the soon-to-be global superstar Conor McGregor and Team Alpha Male's Chad Mendes, who stepped in to replace the injured Jose Aldo, for the interim Featherweight belt. Plus, the guys discuss a variety of questions in retrospect, including the greatest “what ifs”, what's aged the best and worst over the years, event MVP, and more. And, as always, they close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For the first, and hopefully only time, Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris hand out their awards for the best performances and events of 2020, prior to the unfortunate global pause created by the coronavirus outbreak, including: Fight of the GPAs, KO of the GPAs, Submission of the GPAs, Fighter of the GPAs, Event/Night of the GPAs, Newcomer/New Blood of the GPAs, Individual Performance of the GPAs, Best Trash Talk/Exchange of the GPAs, Scrapped Fight of the GPAs, and Brightest Ray of Sunshine of the GPAs. Save yourself 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First, Shaun and Chuck discuss the inevitable cancellation of the UFC's next three events, despite the promotion's best efforts to relocate this weekend's UFC London card to Firelake Arena in Oklahoma on just a few days notice, and Dana White's guarantee that the UFC 249 main event between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson will still happen on April 18, likely outside the United States. Then, the guys open up the mailbag and answer some great listener questions: has there ever been a more jinxed fight than Khabib vs. Tony? How dumb is it for USADA to keep testing during the coronavirus outbreak? Will the quarantining and social distancing lead to stacked events for the rest of the year once competition begins again? In a post-apocalyptic world, which MMA fighter and MMA media member are you picking to be on your team? In a coronavirus zombie apocalypse, who are the three fighters you're picking to travel with from New York to Los Angeles? If Michael Chandler does in fact test free agency after his next fight, where would you like to see him fight? Biggest non-MMA sports heartbreak? Will Rory MacDonald retire if he doesn't win his division in PFL this year? Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First, Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris discuss the unprecedented nature of the coronavirus outbreak and the new reality we're all living in. Then, the guys get down to business and recap UFC Brasilia, including Charles Oliveira's seventh straight win, submitting Kevin Lee via guillotine choke, where the win puts “Do Bronx” in the Lightweight title picture, and what the future might hold for Kevin Lee following this most recent setback, and Gilbert Burn's impressive first round TKO of the ever-classy Demian Maia. Plus, the guys talk about the juxtaposition between the UFC and Bellator in terms of how each organization has handled the coronavirus situation, the future of UFC London and other upcoming cards, how much of a factor Khabib-Ferguson is playing in Dana White's unwillingness to scrap events, and more. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck take a look at UFC Brasilia, likely the best non-pay-per-view UFC card of the year so far, and break down an intriguing matchup between Kevin Lee and Charles Oliveira in the main event, with a lot at stake for both fighters. Before that, the guys each pick an undercard bout that most stands out to them. Then, the guys preview a grappler's delight Welterweight bout in the co-main event between Demian Maia and Gilbert Burns, two fighters at much different points in their careers, and discuss whether Demian Maia belongs in the UFC Hall of Fame. After the break, the guys preview a sneaky-good Bellator 241 card featuring Patricio Pitbull vs. Pedro Carvalho, Daniel Weichel vs. Emmanuel Sanchez, Paul Daley vs. Sabah Homasi, as well as names like Nick Newell, Anatoly Tokov, Matt Mitrione, Leslie Smith, and Baby Slice. Plus, the guys discuss possible fight cancellations and/or relocations as the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread. And, to close out the show, the guys say “yeah” or “meh” to a bunch of recently announced fights during the Rapid Fire Fight Roundup, and they hand out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck deep dive into UFC 248 and start off by rescoring the epic Weili Zhang-Joanna Jedrzejczyk UFC Women's Strawweight title fight, discussing the historic nature of the bout, where it falls in the pantheon of all-time great MMA fights, what we learned about each fighter, and what could be next for both women going forward. Then, the guys talk about the lackluster main event between Israel Adesanya and Yoel Romero, who's at fault for the minimal action over twenty-five minutes, and whether the outcome at all diminishes Stylebender's rise to stardom ahead of his next title defense vs. Paulo Costa. After that, the guys highlight some of the best undercard performances from Saturday night, including Sean O'Malley's brilliant return to the Octagon after two years away, Beneil Dariush's walkoff KO of Drakkar Klose, Neil Magny's slick striking in his own return to the cage after a long layoff, and more. Plus, the guys talk about the excellent UFC 249 Press Conference held on Friday featuring some great exchanges between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson, as well as the Brian Ortega-Korean Zombie altercation on Saturday night that could lead to a very intriguing matchup down the road. Subscribe to The Athletic for a year and save 40% on your annual subscription when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck give their immediate analysis following Weili Zhang's scintillating first Women's Strawweight title defense against the former champion, Joanna Jedrzejczyk, in what might have been the greatest female MMA fight in history, Israel Adesanya's strange decision victory over Yoel Romero in his first Middleweight title defense, and much more. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck break down the two title fights atop UFC 248, the main event between Middleweight champion Israel Adesanya and the ageless wonder, Yoel Romero, as well as the co-main event fight between the Women's Strawweight champion Weili Zhang, making her first title defense, and the former longtime champion, Joanna Jedrzejzcyk. The guys continue on with a preview of the rest of the main card, asking their respective One Big Question for each fight, and make their picks, including Locks of the Night: one from a title fight and one from the undercard. And, as always, they close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Join The Man and the MITH for their UFC 248 Post-Fight show immediately following Saturday night's main event on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck recap a wild last several days in the UFC Flyweight division, starting with Deiveson Figueiredo's weight miss, ending with another tragic loss for Joseph Benavidez, and everything in between, including who's the rightful champion at 125lbs. and whether the division is once again on the chopping block or not. Then, the guys debate who should be next for Amanda Nunes in the Women's Featherweight division after two impressive performances by contenders Felicia Spencer and Megan Anderson, each scoring wins via first round KO. And, what exactly to make of the Ion Cutelaba-Magomed Ankalaev fight, including the controversial stoppage, and if a rematch is in order. Finally, the guys close the show with a quick discussion about the potential for UFC 249 to be one of the best cards ever, if everything stays intact, including the recently announced Alexander Hernandez vs. Islam Makhachev bout. If you have literally one minute to spare, please help out The Man and the MITH by answering 11 very quick questions to let us know more about our listeners: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/25VZGGQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck discuss the UFC Norfolk main event between Joseph Benavidez and Deiveson Figueiredo, the trials and tribulations Benavidez has faced over the last decade to get back to this position, whether his legacy will be written by whatever happens this weekend or not, Figueiredo is a perfect opponent for this moment, and more. And, the guys highlight some undercard bouts they're looking forward to, as well as the unofficial Women's Featherweight tournament featuring Felicia Spencer and Megan Anderson. Then, the guys talk about the possibility of a Conor McGregor vs. Justin Gaethje bout this summer, what the odds are that it actually happens, and if it's a satisfying consolation prize for not getting a Conor-Masvidal fight. Finally, the guys talk about the now-official UFC 250 Bantamweight title fight between Henry Cejudo and Jose Aldo and wonder why this fight came to fruition in the first place. Plus, Shaun and Chuck hand out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck recap a busy weekend in combat sports, including Paul Felder and Dan Hooker going to war in the UFC Auckland main event and Tyson Fury's dominant victory over Deontay Wilder in what was likely the biggest moment of Saturday night's slate. First, the guys discuss Dan Hooker's razor-thin decision over Paul Felder, how they had the fight scored, if this win vaults "The Hangman" into a new tier in the UFC Lightweight division, whether we've seen the last of Paul Felder, who hinted at possible retirement following the loss, and how the idea of a “robbery” is starting to lose all meaning because of the MMA Twitter commentariat. Plus, undercard highlights and a record-breaking streak for Angela “Overkill” Hill. Then, the guys talk about Tyson Fury's incredible performance on Saturday night, the magnitude of the event being heightened by the pageantry of both fighters' walkouts, and why potentially the MMA media favored Fury heading into the bout while boxing pundits largely went with Wilder. Plus, a special shoutout to the “Oxfighter” Khaos Williams, who gave The Man and the MITH exclusive insight into his awesome nickname, recently announced fights like Valentina Shevchenko vs. Jojo Calderwood, Chris Weidman vs. Jack Hermansson, Shogun Rua vs. Lil' Nog 3, and thoughts on Josh Fabia's bizarre interviews last week, including one conducted by The Athletic MMA's own Josh Gross. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck take a look at an extremely busy weekend in the combat sports world, including the highly-anticipated rematch between Deontay Wilder and Tyson Fury, UFC Auckland, and Bellator 239 and Bellator Dublin. First, a preview of the UFC Auckland main event between “The Irish Dragon” Paul Felder and “The Hangman” Dan Hooker in what promises to be a barnburner Lightweight tilt, as the guys discuss who steps into the Octagon on Saturday on the most impressive run and whether a Conor McGregor matchup could be in the offing for the winner. And, the guys highlight undercard bouts to pay attention to, as well. Plus, the guys comb through this weekend's pair of Bellator cards and choose the fights they're most looking forward to, give their thoughts and make picks for Wilder-Fury 2, discuss Aaron Bronsteter's report for TSN about Joe Soliz's apparent conflict of interest at UFC 247 and James Krause's forthcoming appeal. Finally, the guys close out the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic by visiting http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck recap a strange night of fights from this past weekend at UFC Rio Rancho and discuss Jan Blachowicz's vicious first round KO of Corey Anderson, if this was the best case scenario for Jan's title aspirations, with Jon Jones sitting cageside, and if the outcome of this fight has diminished the odds of Dominick Reyes getting his championship rematch with Jones. Then, the guys talk about the Diego Sanchez-Michel Pereira co-main event, the controversial ending involving “The Nightmare” seemingly angling for a DQ win after Pereira landed a clearly-illegal knee in the third round of a fight he was winning, Josh Fabia's questionable corner advice, and if Michel Pereira is in danger of a UFC release anytime soon. Plus, a discussion about a recent report in the New York Post that the UFC only paid its fighters 16% of $900 million in total revenue last year, a paltry sum compared to MLB, NBA, or NFL standards, which pay out 48-50% of revenues to their players. And, the guys close out the show by determining which hypothetical fight is most likely to happen and which is worse: Henry Cejudo vs. Alexander Volkanovski for the UFC Featherweight title or Israel Adesanya vs. Stipe Miocic for the UFC Heavyweight title. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck take a look at the UFC Rio Rancho main event between Corey Anderson and Jan Blachowicz and discuss how the outcome of the Jon Jones-Dominick Reyes UFC 247 title fight has effected the stakes in this potential number one contender bout. And, the guys each pick one undercard fight they're most looking forward to on Saturday night. Then, the guys talk about Kansas and Invicta FC quickly adopting open scoring in the wake of last weekend's poor judging and what this could mean for the future of the sport. After the break, the guys predict who will be the UFC champion in each division when the clock strikes midnight on December 31, 2020. Plus, a quick discussion about the highly-intriguing Gegard Mousasi-Douglas Lima title fight for the vacant Bellator Middleweight title, and the guys hand out their Interim Titles of the Week to close the show. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck discuss Jon Jones's controversial victory over Dominick Reyes on Saturday night to retain his Light Heavyweight title and re-examine their scoring of the bout after a rewatch. The guys talk about judge Joe Soliz, who scored the championship fight 49-46 for Jones, and his history of terrible scoring throughout his career, including a number of poor calls at UFC 247 alone. And, the guys talk about what's next for Dominick Reyes and how this near-victory will shape his future in the UFC. Plus, the guys go over their UFC 247 picks and recap the rest of an exciting undercard, including Valentina Shevchenko's continued excellence and who, if anyone, makes sense for her to fight next, Dan Ige's impressive win over Mirsad Bektic, an entertaining fight between Derrick Lewis and Ilir Latifi, James Krause showing the heart of a true fighter in a questionable loss to Trevon Giles on extremely short notice, Justin Tafa's early KO of Juan Adams, and more. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck give their instant analysis following Jon Jones's razor thin victory over Dominick Reyes to retain his Light Heavyweight title, and discuss whether there should be an immediate rematch, how this affects Jon's Heavyweight prospects, questionable judging, and more. Plus, the guys break down Valentina Shevchenko's masterful title defense against Katlyn Chookagian. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic, and get access to the rest of the year's post-fight shows from The Man and the MITH, when you go to http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck kick off the show with a deep dive into the dual title fights headlining UFC 247, the main event between Light Heavyweight champion Jon Jones and his undefeated challenger, Dominick Reyes, as well as the co-main event bout between Valentina Shevchenko and Katlyn Chookagian, each asking One Big Question about the matchups. Then, the guys break down the rest of the main card, asking their respective One Big Question, and make their picks, including their Locks of the Night. And, as always, they close the show by handing out their Interim Titles of the Week. Don't forget to tune into The Man and the MITH UFC 247 Post-Fight show immediately following Saturday night's main event on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Play, or anywhere else you listen to podcasts! Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck discuss Dana White's recent comments to Jim Rome that the UFC is looking to set up a Kamaru Usman-Jorge Masvidal Welterweight title fight during International Fight Week this summer, how this matchup would impact the rest of the year at 170, and how it could lead to Conor McGregor fighting Justin Gaethje or Nate Diaz. Then, the guys take a fascinating look back at Jon Jones's first six MMA bouts which lead to his eventual UFC debut on August 9, 2008 after just four months as a professional fighter. Finally, the guys close the show with a conversation about Rafael Lovato Jr.'s MMA career being on indefinite hold due to a brain affliction called cavernoma, which he revealed on Joe Rogan's MMA Show last week, and discuss the one silver lining that Lovato Jr.'s absence could pave the way to a Gegard Mousasi vs. Diego Lima Middleweight title fight. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck open up the mailbag for the first time this decade and answer listener questions, including: Thoughts on Tyron Woodley's recent comments to Ariel Helwani about recklessly spending a lot of his money? If you hacked into the UFC Twitter account, what single tweet would cause the most devastation? What would have to happen this year for Jon Jones to be the undisputed, inarguable GOAT? Which fighters would have the best chance at surviving one NBA game, scoring at least 4 points, and playing all 48 minutes? What will be the next champion vs. champion fight in the UFC? Are MMA fans entitled (re: Stephen A. Smith)? And, more! Plus, the guys hand out their Interim Titles of the Week to close the show. Save yourself 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To start off the show, Shaun and Chuck share their thoughts on the tragic death of NBA legend Kobe Bryant and talk a bit about how they'll remember him. The guys get down to business, starting with a Bellator 238 recap, including Cris Cyborg's vicious finish of Julia Budd to capture her fourth major promotional championship in a vintage performance, Aaron Pico's KO of Daniel Carey, Sergio Pettis's first stoppage victory since 2013 in his Bellator debut, and Darrion Caldwell's quick submission of Adam Borics to advance in the Featherweight World Grand Prix, setting up a juicy matchup with AJ McKee in the next round. After that, the guys break down Curtis Blaydes's nasty finish of Junior dos Santos in the main event of UFC Raleigh and discuss what the win means for Blaydes amidst a lot of uncertainty at the top of the Heavyweight division, Michael Chiesa's solid win over RDA in the co-main, a potential Chiesa-Covington matchup, and undercard highlights including Angela Hill's second straight finish, Arnold Allen improving to 7-0 inside the Octagon, and more. Finally, the guys close the show with their thoughts on the continuing Stephen A. Smith-Joe Rogan feud that dominated headlines over the weekend. You can save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic, and get access to The Man and the MITH's exclusive post-fight shows, when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck take a look at both of this weekend's events, UFC Raleigh, headlined by Curtis Blaydes and Junior dos Santos, and Bellator 238, featuring Cris Cyborg making her debut against Julia Budd for the Women's Featherweight crown, and decide which promotion put forth the better card. The guys discuss what's at stake between Curtis Blaydes and JDS and how much of a shadow Francis Ngannou casts over the main event, as well as the intriguing co-main event matchup between Michael Chiesa and Rafael Dos Anjos. With Cris Cyborg making her promotional debut for Bellator, the guys talk about her legacy and what it would mean for her to capture yet another championship in a different organization, and whether Julia Budd is being drastically overlooked in this matchup. Then, a quick look at the Darrion Caldwell vs. Adam Borics Featherweight Grand Prix matchup in the co-main event, Sergio Pettis's Bellator debut, Aaron Pico vs. Daniel Carey, and more. Plus, examining the pay-per-view numbers for UFC 246, Tyron Woodley vs. Leon Edwards, Derek Brunson vs. Edmen Shahbazyan, and the guys hand out their Interim Titles of the Week.  Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck break down Conor McGregor's mystifying return to the Octagon at UFC 246, running through Cowboy Cerrone in a mere forty seconds, and discuss who and what makes sense for his next fight, Dana White's insistence that Khabib-Conor 2 is the right move, Stephen A. Smith's commentary about Cowboy before and after the fight, and more. Plus, the guys briefly recap the rest of the main card, highlight standout performances from the undercard, and give their takes on Stylebender vs. Yoel Romero headline UFC 248 and the targeted Henry Cejudo vs. Jose Aldo title fight targeted for UFC 250. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck give their instant analysis following Conor McGregor's triumphant return to the Octagon, finishing Cowboy Cerrone with a head kick and punches at just forty seconds of the very first round, as well as some quick thoughts on the rest of the card. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic, and get access to the rest of the year's post-fight shows from The Man and the MITH, when you go to http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck break down the UFC 246 main event bout between the returning, former two-weight world champion, Conor McGregor, and Cowboy Cerrone, a man with his name all over the UFC record books, and ask One Big Question looming over each fighter heading into Saturday night. Plus, the guys makes their main card picks, as well as their locks of the night, and hand out Interim Titles of the Week to close the show. Save 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck are joined by the show's first ever guest, and host of the Eurobash podcast, MMAFighting's Petesy Carroll, to discuss all-things Conor McGregor including how he's currently being perceived and discussed in Ireland, whether his legacy is truly at stake in this fight or not, Artem Lobov and Gunnar Nelson being absent from his training camp heading into fight week, and much, much more. Plus, the guys talk about the likely rematch between two former UFC Women's Strawweight champions in Rose Namajunas and Jessica Andrade at UFC 249 and Jessica Penne facing a 4-year anti-doping suspension from USADA, claiming she was “bullied” into a de facto retirement. Get 40% off an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Producer Chris throws out headlines and news items that were overlooked during the holidays as Shaun and Chuck gives their takes on interesting Conor McGregor and John Kavanagh interviews, Conor's terrible UFC 246 walkout shirt, Ryan Hall calling out Jose Aldo and Frankie Edgar, Edson Barboza moving down to Featherweight, and much more. And, the guys discuss recently announced fights including Francis Ngannou vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik, Calvin Kattar vs. Jeremy Stephens, Demian Maia vs. Gilbert Burns, and a likely Israel Adesanya title defense against Yoel Romero. Plus, everyone picks a UFC 246 undercard bout to highlight heading into a big fight week next week, and the guys hand out their Interim Titles of the Week to close the show. Get 40% off an annual subscription to The Athletic by signing up at http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck kick the year off right by making three bold predictions apiece about the next twelve months in the world of MMA. Which current UFC champs will still have belts by year end? Will we see GSP or Nick Diaz back inside the Octagon? Is Jon Jones's future in the Heavyweight division? Plus, the guys detail their two-part series on The Athletic about which 3 non-champions have the best shot of ending 2020 with UFC gold and which 3 current UFC champions have the toughest road ahead in 2020. Get 40% off an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the final episode of the year, Shaun, Chuck, and Producer Chris hand out their year-end awards across 13 different categories: Fight of the Year, Male/Female Fighter of the Year, KO of the Year, Submission of the Year, Comeback of the Year, Event of the Year, Newcomer of the Year, Career Move of the Year, Coach of the Year, Scrapped Fight of the Year, Cringiest Moment of the Year, and Promo of the Year. Save yourself 40% on an annual subscription to The Athletic when you go to http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Shaun and Chuck break down the UFC Busan main event between Frankie Edgar, filling in for the injured Brian Ortega on short notice, and The Korean Zombie, Chan Sung Jung, and discuss what's at stake for both guys, as well as highlights on the undercard, including Volkan Oezdemir vs. Aleksandar Rakic in the co-main, Cyril Gane vs. Tanner Boser, and Doo Ho Choi returning to the Octagon for the first time since January 2018. Plus, the guys discuss Rory MacDonald signing with PFL for their 2020 $1 million season, Dana White saying Khabib-Conor 2 could be on the horizon if they both win their upcoming fights, and Interim Titles of the Week. Get 40% off an annual subscription to The Athletic when you visit http://theathletic.com/MATM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices