American mixed martial arts fighter
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The UFC lightweight division just got even more interesting after newly crowned champion Justin Gaethje made it clear that he doesn't believe Ilia Topuria deserves an immediate rematch following their historic battle at the UFC White House card. Gaethje recently doubled down on his position, saying Topuria needs to earn another title shot before getting a second crack at the belt. On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson & John Morgan break down the future of the lightweight division, whether Topuria should get an immediate rematch, and who deserves the next shot at Gaethje. We also discuss the UFC's brand-new Meta rankings system. The new rankings are generated using an Elo-based mathematical model developed with Meta and have already sparked major debate among fans and fighters due to some surprising placements throughout the rankings. Are the new rankings better than the old media-voted system? Has the UFC improved the process, or have they created a whole new controversy? Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts in the comments!
Alan Jouban joins Josh Thomson as they react to the UFC White House card and the reports of Ilia Topuria's broken orbital.
Big John McCarthy and Josh Thomson react to Alex Pereira's comments on the illegal head shots from UFC Freedom 250.
UFC 250 at the White House is officially in the books, and the fallout from one of the most historic events in MMA history is just beginning. On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson & John Morgan break down all the biggest moments and storylines coming out of the UFC White House card. From championship implications and standout performances to controversial decisions and future matchups, we cover everything from an unforgettable night in combat sports. Who were the biggest winners and losers? Which performances changed the landscape of the UFC? And what fights need to happen next after one of the most talked-about events in MMA history? Josh &n John give their fighter/Journalist perspective on the key moments from the card, the atmosphere surrounding the historic White House event, and what it means for the future of the sport. Join the conversation and let us know your biggest takeaway from UFC 250 in the comments below!
You can be the best in the world at something — and still be terrified you'd quit if it ever got hard enough.This week, I sat down with Josh Thomson — a former UFC and PRIDE fighter, Strikeforce World Champion, and 20-year veteran of the sport. For most of his career he treated water, rest, and recovery like weaknesses. Coaches drilled it into him: waters for the weak. Twelve ounces a day. Protein shakes and grit.Then his dad died at 46. And everything changed.Here's what blew my mind: the real turning point in his career wasn't a fight — it was grief. Losing his father flipped a switch. Six liters of water a day. Electrolytes. Ice baths. Actual recovery. His performances exploded.He dropped a bomb about the supplement world too — fighters failing drug tests because of contaminated products they bought right off the shelf. What you're putting in your body might not be what the label says.And the part that stuck with me most? Josh believes 30 to 40 minutes of movement a day would erase most of our mental health struggles. Not the gym. Just a walk.We get into brain trauma, addiction as a superpower, why nobody remembers your name (not even Jordan's), and the note he wrote his kids that I'm stealing for my own.This conversation will change how you think about toughness, recovery, and what actually matters.What we talk about:Why "water's for the weak" was the mantra that wrecked his recoveryThe twelve-ounces-a-day habit he trained on for yearsHow losing his dad rebuilt his career almost overnightThe supplement contamination making fighters fail drug testsWhy the best athletes in the world are secretly addictsThe 30-minute daily habit he swears erases mental health strugglesThe note he wrote his kids that changed how they talk to himWhy nobody will remember your name — and why that's freeingListen now on all platforms: Hydrate With Tracy DuhsEpisode Links & Resources:Podcasts: WEIGHING IN - https://linktr.ee/weighinginpodcast | Dad Dojo - https://www.youtube.com/@DadDojoPodcastInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealpunk/Connect with Tracy:Website: https://tracyduhs.com/Hydration Shop: https://sanctuarysd.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tracyduhs/Flow FAM Community: https://tracyduhs.com/join-flow-fam/
The GOAT debate just got even crazier after Dana White's latest comments about Alex Pereira and Jon Jones. On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson reacts to Dana White saying Alex Pereira may already be the greatest fighter of all time over Jon Jones. We break down Pereira's incredible rise across multiple weight classes, his championship run in kickboxing and MMA, and whether his recent dominance is enough to surpass Jon Jones' legendary UFC career. We'll also discuss: Why Dana White made the statement now How Pereira's accomplishments compare to Jon Jones' resume The importance of titles, longevity, and level of competition Whether Pereira can truly become the MMA GOAT with a few more wins What this means for the ongoing GOAT debate in combat sports Is Alex Pereira already ahead of Jon Jones, or is this recency bias after another huge performance? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
History was made tonight, and we're breaking down all the biggest moments immediately after the event! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson gives his instant reaction to one of the most historic nights in combat sports. From shocking moments and standout performances to controversy and what comes next, Josh breaks down everything you need to know coming out of tonight's event. What did this mean for the future of MMA? Which fighters elevated their legacy? And what moments will fans be talking about for years to come? Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
Fresh off his big win over Edmen Shahbazyan, Brendan Allen joins us LIVE on Weighing In! On this special live episode, Josh Thomson and John Morgan sit down with Brendan Allen to discuss his impressive performance, what was working inside the Octagon, and what he believes should be next for his career following the victory. We'll also get Brendan's thoughts and predictions on the upcoming UFC White House card, including the matchups he's most excited about, the fighters he thinks will shine, and the fights fans should keep an eye on. Join us LIVE and bring your questions for Brendan as we discuss his recent win, the middleweight division, and all things UFC.
UFC Fight Night is in the books and Josh Thomson is giving his instant reaction to all the action from Las Vegas! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh breaks down the main event between Belal Muhammad and Gabriel Bonfim, discussing the biggest moments of the fight, what the result means for the welterweight division, and where both fighters go from here. UFC Fight Night was headlined by the pivotal welterweight matchup between former champion Muhammad and rising contender Bonfim. Josh also recaps the rest of the card, highlighting the standout performances, biggest surprises, controversial moments, and the fighters who may have taken a major step forward in their UFC careers. From title implications and rankings movement to matchmaking and future fights, we cover everything coming out of UFC Fight Night. Let us know your thoughts on the event in the comments and join the conversation!
It's another episode of Fighter to Fighter as Josh Thomson and Alan Jouban break down all the action from UFC Fight Night: Muhammad vs. Bonfim. The guys recap the main event as Gabriel Bonfim scored the biggest win of his career with a dominant unanimous decision over former UFC champion Belal Muhammad. They discuss what went wrong for Belal, what Bonfim proved against elite competition, and what this means for the future of the welterweight division. Josh and Alan also break down the rest of the card, including the co-main event between Brendan Allen and Edmen Shahbazyan, the rise of the UFC's newest contenders, standout performances, controversial moments, and which fighters made the biggest statement on fight night. From fighter strategy and technical breakdowns to matchmaking and title implications, Josh and Alan give their unique fighter perspective on everything that happened inside the Octagon.
It's a loaded episode of Weighing In as Josh Thomson is joined by John Morgan to discuss some of the biggest stories in combat sports. The guys react to the incredible return of Ben Askren after overcoming a life-threatening health battle and his upcoming match at RAF Wrestling against Belal Muhammad. Josh and John discuss what this comeback means, the challenges Askren has faced, and why the combat sports community has rallied behind him. They also break down the news surrounding Scott Coker potentially returning to MMA promotion following his recent interview with Ariel Helwani. What could a new promotion look like, and how might it impact the current MMA landscape? Plus, Josh shares stories and insights from his recent work at CFFC, discussing standout prospects, memorable moments, and what caught his attention while calling the action cageside. From wrestling and MMA to the business side of the fight game, we cover it all on this episode of Weighing In.
Welcome to McCarthy Monday on Weighing In! On this episode, Big John McCarthy and Josh Thomson break down two of the most talked-about officiating moments from the weekend and explain exactly what happened from a referee's perspective. The guys dive into the controversy surrounding the decision involving Nkuta and Herb Dean at the MVP event, discussing the rules, the referee's responsibilities, and whether the criticism from fans is justified. They also break down the illegal headbutt that occurred at CFFC while Josh was on commentary, examining how referees are trained to handle fouls, what options are available to officials in real time, and how commissions determine the outcome of these situations. As always, McCarthy Monday is designed to help educate MMA fans on the rules, judging, officiating, and decision-making process that takes place inside the cage. If you've ever questioned a referee's call, a stoppage, or the result of a fight, this is the show for you.
It's a packed episode of Weighing In as Josh Thomson returns for his first show since appearing on the Joe Rogan Experience! Josh is joined by Angelo to recap UFC Macau, breaking down the biggest fights, standout performances, controversial moments, and what's next for the fighters coming out of the event. The guys also discuss their trip to RAF Wrestling in Dallas, Josh's experience working cageside at CFFC in Philadelphia, and some of the stories and insights gathered from a busy week in combat sports. From UFC action to regional MMA and wrestling, plus behind-the-scenes stories from Josh's recent travels, this episode covers it all. Join us live and drop your questions and comments in the chat!
Gilbert Burns joins Josh Thomson as they discuss retirement, Gilbert's MMA career, life after fighting and more.
Cain Velasquez joins Josh Thomson as he discusses his life after prison, potential of a return to MMA, his upcoming seminar and more.
Dustin Poirier joins Josh Thomson as they discuss the upcoming UFC Freedom 250 card, Conor McGregor's return, Jorge Masvidal potentially returning and more.
Daniel Cormier joins Josh Thomson as they discuss UFC Freedom 250, Scott Coker's venture back into MMA, Conor McGregor's return and more.
The MVP Promotions Netflix card featuring Gina Carano and Ronda Rousey has everyone talking — and we're going LIVE with final thoughts before fight night! On this LIVE episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson gives his final breakdown and reactions to the massive MVP card, including the highly anticipated matchup between Nate Diaz and Mike Perry, along with the rest of the stacked lineup headed to Netflix. Josh discusses the biggest storylines, the fights he's most excited for, what these matchups mean for combat sports, and how this event could change the landscape for crossover fight cards moving forward. We'll also be taking LIVE fan questions throughout the show, so jump in the chat and join the conversation!
The fights are over and we've got instant reactions to all the biggest moments in combat sports! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson gives his immediate reaction to the MVP Promotions Netflix card featuring Gina vs Ronda Rousey, plus the highly anticipated showdown between Nate Diaz and Mike Perry. Josh also breaks down all the biggest moments from the latest UFC Fight Night card, discussing standout performances, controversial moments, finishes, and what's next for the biggest winners and losers coming out of the eventful night in MMA. Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts on the fights in the comments!
The results are in and we're breaking down all the biggest moments from an action-packed weekend in combat sports! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson & Big Angelo recap the MVP Promotions Netflix card featuring Gina vs Ronda Rousey, including all the fallout, standout performances, and what's next after the highly talked-about event. Josh also breaks down the latest UFC Fight Night card featuring Arnold Allen, discussing the key fights, biggest winners and losers, and the moments that could shake up the divisions moving forward. From finishes and controversy to future matchmaking and fan reactions, we cover everything coming out of a huge weekend for MMA fans.
The new MVP Promotion event on Netflix is making serious noise and we're breaking down everything announced for the card! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson is joined by HeyJive to discuss the massive MVP Promotions event headlined by Gina and Ronda Rousey, plus the highly anticipated matchup between Nate Diaz and Mike Perry along with the other huge fights expected on the Netflix card. The guys also react to all the fallout from UFC 328, including the controversy surrounding Khamzat Chimaev, the debate over Sean Strickland's performance and scorecards, and the stoppage in Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira. From fight announcements and matchmaking to reactions and analysis, we cover all the biggest stories in combat sports.
Welcome to McCarthy Monday on Weighing In! On this episode, Big John McCarthy and Josh Thomson use Big John's decades of officiating experience to break down and educate fans on the biggest controversies coming out of UFC 328. The guys discuss the criticism surrounding Khamzat Chimaev and the questions about his weight cut, the debate over whether Sean Strickland deserved the decision, and the controversial stoppage in Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira. Big John explains how weigh-ins are regulated, what referees are looking for during stoppages, and how judges are instructed to score fights under the unified rules — giving fans a clearer understanding of why these decisions are made and whether the criticism is justified. If you've ever questioned scorecards, referee stoppages, or commission decisions, this is the show for you.
UFC 328 is in the books and we're breaking down all the biggest moments from the card! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson is joined by Big Angelo from We Want Picks to recap UFC 328, including the main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland, plus the co-main event featuring Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira. We'll discuss the biggest performances, controversial moments, what stood out most on the card, and what's next for the top fighters coming out of UFC 328. Join us LIVE and drop your reactions and questions in the chat!
UFC 328 delivered huge moments and we're reacting to all of it on Weighing In! On this episode, Josh Thomson breaks down the results, biggest moments, and key takeaways from UFC 328 — including the main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland, as well as the co-main event featuring Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira. We'll discuss who impressed the most, what the results mean for the divisions moving forward, and what could be next for the biggest winners and losers coming out of UFC 328. Join us LIVE and drop your thoughts and questions in the chat!
Benson Henderson is stepping back into the cage in the PFL — and we're going LIVE to break it all down. On this LIVE episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson is joined by Henderson to discuss his upcoming fight in Professional Fighters League, how his preparation is going, and what fans can expect when he makes his return. We'll also talk about his mindset, game plan, and where this fight fits into the next chapter of his career. Join us LIVE and drop your questions in the chat — we'll be answering fan questions and getting insight directly from Benson himself!
The first ever episode of Fighter to Fighter as Josh Thomson and Alan Jouban go LIVE to preview UFC 328! The guys break down the massive main event between Khamzat Chimaev and Sean Strickland, plus the co-main event featuring Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira. From stylistic matchups and fight strategy to predictions and betting angles, Josh and Alan give their fighter perspective on the biggest fights at UFC 328. Join us LIVE and drop your questions in the chat!
UFC 328 is stacked with a huge main event as Khamzat Chimaev takes on Sean Strickland — and we're breaking it all down. On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson is joined by John Morgan to preview UFC 328, including the main event between Chimaev and Strickland, as well as the co-main event featuring Joshua Van vs Tatsuro Taira. We break down the matchups, key storylines, and give our predictions heading into fight night.
On this LIVE episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson breaks down the three fighters most likely to face McGregor, including Max Holloway, a potential trilogy with Nate Diaz, and another high-stakes option in Dustin Poirier. We'll discuss matchmaking, timing, and what fight makes the most sense for International Fight Week. Join us LIVE and drop your questions in the chat — we'll be answering fan questions and debating who McGregor should fight next!
Jack Della Maddalena vs Carlos Prates is going down, and we're LIVE reacting to all the action! On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson gives his live reaction and breakdown of JDM vs Prates — from the biggest moments in the fight to what this means for the division moving forward. We'll cover the striking exchanges, game plans, and where both fighters go next after this matchup. Join us LIVE and drop your thoughts in the chat — we'll be answering fan questions and reacting in real time!
Who are the greatest coaches in MMA history? From building world champions to shaping entire eras of the sport, we break down the minds behind the fighters. On this episode of Weighing In, Josh Thomson dives into the best coaches of all time in MMA — discussing their impact, the fighters they've developed, and how they changed the game forever.
Aljamain Sterling joins Josh Thomson ahead of his UFC fight on April 25th against Zalal. This offer may be claimed for LMNT customers, ONLY THROUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn https://www.amazon.com/shop/therealpunk?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_PXSPXPTQ4J26QW4FP4T5 Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Josh Thomson and John Morgan preview UFC 327 Prachazka vs Ulburg. This offer may be claimed for LMNT customers, ONLY THROUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn https://www.amazon.com/shop/therealpunk?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_PXSPXPTQ4J26QW4FP4T5
John Morgan from MMA Junkie joins Josh Thomson to discuss the most recent UFC drama. This offer may be claimed for LMNT customers, ONLY THROUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn https://www.amazon.com/shop/therealpunk?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_PXSPXPTQ4J26QW4FP4T5
Josh Thomson talks the state of the MMA landscape with Brett Okamoto. This offer may be claimed for LMNT customers, ONLY THROUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn https://www.amazon.com/shop/therealpunk?ref_=cm_sw_r_cp_ud_aipsfshop_PXSPXPTQ4J26QW4FP4T5 Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Josh Thomson discusses his time at CPI. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Benson Henderson joins Josh Thomson as they discuss his upcoming fight, preview UFC 326 and more.
Josh Thomson is joined by a fan as they debate the GOAT status of Jon Jones and Israel Adesanya.
Josh Thomson is joined by Matt Serra as they talk history of the sport, the state of things now, his relationship with Dana White and more. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Josh Thomson i joined by UFC Champion Dominick Cruz. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Josh Thomson talks Jon Jones retirement comments. Drop your member questions in the chat!
Josh Thomson breaks down Volkanovski vs Lopes 2 and what to expect. Join live and drop your super chats for a live Q&A.
Josh Thomson talks Khamzat Chimaev vs Alex Pereir, UFC announcements and more. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Josh Thomson sits down with a longtime supporter of the show to debate the UFC's direction, wrestling's role, Islam's legacy, Chimaev's future, and the White House card. Go to WeWantPicks.com/OFFER and use code ANDSTILL and claim your 10% discount. Use our link and claim a free LMNT Sample Pack when they make any purchase! The LMNT Sample Pack includes 1 packet of every flavor, no questions asked refunds on all orders – you don't even have to send it back! This offer may be claimed be first-time and returning LMNT customers, ONLY THOUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk Getting to know the fan guest 00:00 UFC getting away from the wrestlers 02:26 Can Fluffy jump Imavov for number one contender? 15:46 How Josh met Angelo and his favoritism to Islam 20:32 Does Usman beat Garry/Morales/Shavkat? 24:04 CBS/Paramount Deal 27:06 Justin Gaethje talk 34:21 Islam's Resume and Lack of taking short notice fights 40:00 Chimaev to Heavyweight 42:52 Ben Askren and Nate Diaz Beef 44:30 UFC Whitehouse does it happen? 48:33 Wrap Up 51:01
Josh Thomson and Luke Thomas delve into the evolving landscape of MMA, discussing the recent changes in partnerships, the challenges of solo broadcasting, and the importance of family life for fighters. They reflect on the legacy of AKA, cultural differences in fighting, and the ongoing issues surrounding fighter pay and unionization. The duo also explores the impact of CBS and Paramount on the visibility of MMA, the state of American fighters, and the significance of local events in building a fan base. As they navigate the complexities of matchmaking and the future of the sport, they emphasize the need for a new generation of fighters to ensure the growth and sustainability of MMA. Go to WeWantPicks.com/OFFER and use code ANDSTILL and claim your 10% discount. Use our link and claim a free LMNT Sample Pack when they make any purchase! The LMNT Sample Pack includes 1 packet of every flavor, no questions asked refunds on all orders – you don't even have to send it back! This offer may be claimed be first-time and returning LMNT customers, ONLY THOUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk Losing a Co-Host 00:00 Josh's Experience with AKA and AKA's Legacy 07:43 The Future of Morning Combat 18:31 CBS/Paramount Deal and Fighter Pay 23:43 CBS/Paramount Deal Pros and Cons 36:54 The State of American Fighters in MMA 43:11 The Challenges of Matchmaking in MMA 52:46 Wrap Up 1:04:43
Josh Thomson talks Anthony Joshua car crash situation and covers MMA news topics.
Josh Thomson is joined by Daniel Cormier as they discuss DC's job cageside commentating fights for his Dagestani teammates, gives his thoughts on Jake Paul vs Anthony Joshua, talks Paramount/UFC deal and more. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk Intro 00:00 DC is a Busy Man 00:37 What Do You Enjoy About Coaching 03:36 Living in California vs Texas 03:57 Reclassifying Kids for Sports in School 09:11 DC Strife with Thailand 16:46 RAF 20:30 Rockhold vs Covington/Nickal vs Romero 24:31 Joshua vs Paul 26:57 Arlovski Situation 31:03 Watching Team AKA Succeed 35:48 How Does The Paramount Deal Effect DC 45:39 Most Proud Of/Regret from Career 53:19
Josh Thomson and Angelo Bodetti reflect on the recent transition of the UFC from ESPN, discussing the implications of this change and the overall quality of the last fight night. They also analyze Manel Kape and Brandon Royval, while also touching on the dynamics of the welterweight and heavyweight divisions. Go to WeWantPicks.com/OFFER and use code ANDSTILL and claim your 10% discount. Use our link and claim a free LMNT Sample Pack when they make any purchase! The LMNT Sample Pack includes 1 packet of every flavor, no questions asked refunds on all orders – you don't even have to send it back! This offer may be claimed be first-time and returning LMNT customers, ONLY THOUGH OUR LINK! http://drinklmnt.com/WeighingIn Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk Intro 00:00 End of an Era: UFC on ESPN 01:36 Analyzing the Card 05:57 Royval vs Kape 08:04 Chikadze vs Vallejos 16:04 Almeida vs Oleksiejczuk 25:34 Costa vs Charriere 26:09 Nzechukwu vs Buchecha 30:52 Green vs Gibson Jr 33:29 Magny vs Amosov 37:07 Sharaf vs Asplund 44:47 Rate The Card Out Of 10 48:52
Josh Thomson talks the announcement of Max Holloway vs Charles Oliveira for the BMF title, Conor McGregor's comments on wanting triple gold at 170, Trump's comments on 8-9 White House card title fights and more. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk
Josh Thomson and Rich Chou discuss their long-standing friendship and Rich's extensive experience in MMA promotions, including his involvement with Elite XC, Strikeforce, and the recent CBS and Paramount deal. They reflect on the evolution of MMA's acceptance in mainstream media, the challenges of matchmaking in the welterweight division, and the potential returns of Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk Intro 00:00 Rich Chou's Past Career in MMA 01:03 New UFC TV Rights 02:06 Strikeforce Nashville Brawl 05:41 TV Deal and How Many Fights Will Be On The Cards 19:04 Welterweight Division and Making The Best Matchups 23:08 Managing Two Fighters Who Want To Fight 47:04 Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano 55:02 Paul vs Joshua 56:39 Back to Ronda vs Gina 59:52 Wrap Up 1:05:24
Josh Thomson and Rich Chou discuss their long-standing friendship and Rich's extensive experience in MMA promotions, including his involvement with Elite XC, Strikeforce, and the recent CBS and Paramount deal. They reflect on the evolution of MMA's acceptance in mainstream media, the challenges of matchmaking in the welterweight division, and the potential returns of Ronda Rousey and Gina Carano. Follow Josh on X/Instagram @therealpunk Intro 00:00 Rich Chou's Past Career in MMA 01:03 New UFC TV Rights 02:06 Strikeforce Nashville Brawl 05:41 TV Deal and How Many Fights Will Be On The Cards 19:04 Welterweight Division and Making The Best Matchups 23:08 Managing Two Fighters Who Want To Fight 47:04 Ronda Rousey vs Gina Carano 55:02 Paul vs Joshua 56:39 Back to Ronda vs Gina 59:52 Wrap Up 1:05:24