With UFC 315 behind us, and Jack Della Maddalena’s win over Belal Muhammad, the door is now open for Islam Makhachev to move up and challenge Della Maddalena. I’ll break down what this matchup would mean for both the lightweight and welterweight divisions—and whether it’s even fair for Della Maddalena to defend his title against Makhachev. Plus, what’s next for Muhammad after the loss? Then, it was another win in a decorated career for Valentina Shevchenko, who retained her flyweight title again...
May 13, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 459
It's the eve of UFC 315, but fresh off of my trip to Iowa, I begin with some stories from my visit to the University of Iowa’s wrestling practice. Then, I tell you why it isn't time to derail the Bo Nickal hype train just yet. Plus, why Ian Machado Garry is wrong for saying Islam Makhachev deserves a welterweight title shot. Also, Alex Pereira claimed someone hacked his Twitter, and apparently Magomed Ankalaev was the hacker? And retired UFC fighter Matt Brown says the honeymoon phase for women’...
May 09, 2025•47 min•Ep. 458
UFC Des Moines is in the books, and I break down Reinier de Ridder vs. Bo Nickal—including whether it’s fair to call Nickal overrated, how high de Ridder should climb in the rankings after his win, and my issue with Nickal's approach. Also, what's next for Cory Sandhagen after defeating Deiveson Figueiredo? Then, Charles Oliveira’s coach says Oliveira would prefer a fight with Ilia Topuria over Islam Makhachev—I’ll tell you why I like that idea. Plus, as we gear up for UFC 315 this weekend, I ex...
May 06, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 457
On today’s episode, I tell you why I have a problem with Islam Makhachev basing his future on the outcome of Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena. And for everyone doubting Kamaru Usman ... have you forgotten who Kamaru Usman is? Then, I look ahead to Bo Nickal vs. Reinier de Ridder this weekend at UFC Des Moines, but apparently, Nickal weighed needs to cut a considerable amount of weight this week. I’ll also tell you whether I agree with Vegas, who has Nickal as the heavy favorite. Next, UFC...
May 02, 2025•1 hr 14 min•Ep. 456
With UFC Kansas City in the books, Ian Machado Garry’s win over Carlos Prates has earned him the spot as the backup fighter for UFC 315. I'll tell you why Machado Garry still concerns me, and what I make of Joaquin Buckley's appearance at his weigh-in. Then, Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3 is set for UFC 318 in a battle for the BMF title (which I told you about a month ago). Also, my reaction to watching a video of Israel Adesanya throwing up while training with David Goggins. To close out the...
Apr 29, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 455
On today’s episode, I break the news that Tom Aspinall will face Ciryl Gane — not Jon Jones — for the for the interim heavyweight title (again). Then, a trusted source tells me that Justin Gaethje will get the next shot at Islam Makhachev, not Ilia Topuria. And, Dricus Du Plessis broke his silence on Twitter, telling the public that he has a fight announcement coming soon. Next, how is Nassourdine Imavov ranked No. 1 in the middleweight division ahead of Khamzat Chimaev? And apparently Topuria i...
Apr 25, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 454
Paddy Pimblett reportedly gained 40 pounds after his UFC 314 win?! On today's episode, I break down how that’s even possible. Then, I explain why I'm uncomfortable with the conversation around Conor McGregor’s alleged cocaine use. And, I’ve got an update on Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall, including Aspinall saying he’s been “sworn to secrecy." Also, if Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev is off the table for International Fight Week due to a DDP injury, could Nassourdine Imavov be a realistic repl...
Apr 22, 2025•46 min•Ep. 453
On today's episode, I break down the confusing lightweight title picture, and explain why I think Islam Makhachev needs to fight Ilia Topuria. Then, some people are discrediting Paddy Pimblett’s win last weekend by saying Michael Chandler just isn’t that good anymore — I’ll give you my take. Next, I might have to walk back what I said about Alexander Volkanovski looking old while reclaiming the featherweight title — because he still dominated Diego Lopes. But it got me thinking: How will we look...
Apr 18, 2025•58 min•Ep. 452
I’m back from UFC 314! And after Alexander Volkanovski won the vacant featherweight title over Diego Lopes, Movsar Evloev called him out for a title shot — but I don’t see that matchup as main event material. Then, following his impressive win over Michael Chandler, people are wondering if Paddy Pimblett could become an even bigger star than Conor McGregor. I’ll share my thoughts on that and although we may not know who Paddy will fight next, I think we can agree on this: He’s one win away from ...
Apr 15, 2025•39 min•Ep. 451
On today’s episode, I introduce you to the newest addition to the UFC: Aaron Pico! Then, I went back and rewatched Sean O'Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili, and I think it was a lot closer than you might remember. Also, my reaction to Carlos Prates smoking four cigarettes at once—is it just for attention, or is there a real problem here? Then, as we gear up for UFC 314 in Miami this Saturday night, I’ll explain how Paddy Pimblett is creating a path for himself to fight Arman Tsarukyan. Also, Alexande...
Apr 11, 2025•45 min•Ep. 450
On today’s episode, Ben Askren says Sean O’Malley made a huge mistake accepting a rematch with Merab Dvalishvili—but I’ll tell you where I disagree, and what’s going to be different this time around. Then, after spending plenty of time trying to figure out the right next opponent for Ilia Topuria, I’m turning the question over to the listeners—who should he fight next? Meanwhile, with reports that Islam Makhachev is waiting on the outcome of Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena before decidin...
Apr 08, 2025•47 min•Ep. 449
On today’s episode, I tell you why I love the booking of Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O'Malley 2, and why I think it'll be different this time around. Then, I talk about Ian Machado Garry's decision to step in on short notice against Carlos Prates, and why I believe it's a massive fight for each guy. Meanwhile, Mateusz Gamrot says he's the backup fighter for Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett next weekend, but I'm not sure I actually believe him. Plus, I explain why a loss to Diego Lopes might en...
Apr 04, 2025•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 448
On today’s episode, it's clearer now more than ever that Conor McGregor's time is done with the UFC. Then, Ilia Topuria claims the UFC has promised him a lightweight title fight -- do I believe that? And, both Topuria and Charles Oliveira want a crack at Islam Makhachev next—but I'd rather see Oliveira vs. Topuria for the No. 1 contender fight. Elsewhere, Joe Pyfer isn't happy about the food poisoning that forced him to withdraw from his fight at UFC Mexico City. Plus, whether Jon Jones fights T...
Apr 01, 2025•1 hr 4 min•Ep. 447
Fresh off defeating Leon Edwards at UFC London, I’m wondering if a title shot is next for Sean Brady. Then, my rare interview with Charles Oliveira (translated by Gabriel Checco) where we discuss what’s really going on between Oliveira and Ilia Topuria. Plus, I explain why I agree with Oliveira’s claim that he deserves a shot at Islam Makhachev’s title. After that, PFL's Donn Davis tweeted at Jon Jones that he could make him $50 million to fight Francis Ngannou, but is that more worth it to Jone...
Mar 28, 2025•1 hr 18 min•Ep. 446
On today’s episode, Tom Aspinall says Jon Jones needs to either fight him or retire, which leads me to remind you that Jones hasn’t actually turned down the fight. Then, Conor McGregor says he wants to run for Ireland's highest political offer, while also hinting at a UFC return. I'll tell you why I think it's possible he can do both. Plus, BKFC's new "Ice Wars," which feature hockey-style fighting, have caught my attention Will they catch yours too?. And lastly, Floyd Mayweather says he’s open ...
Mar 25, 2025•34 min•Ep. 445
On today’s episode, Jon Jones wants six months to prepare for Tom Aspinall, but what exactly does he mean by that? Plus, Aspinall’s father is furious with Jones' request, and I'll explain why the UFC won't consider any of his concerns. Then, Dricus Du Plessis is thanking Magomed Ankalaev for taking away what he calls “the biggest payday of my life." But would a fight with Alex Pereira actually be DDP's biggest payday? Also in the middleweight division, I tell you why we have to make Robert Whitt...
Mar 21, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 444
On today’s episode, Arman Tsarukyan is dismissing Paddy Pimblett, but I'll tell you why it's really a compliment in disguise. Then, Jon Anik suggested says Justin Gaethje should be next in line for Islam Makhache ... is he right? Plus, Rafael Fiziev wants to move to 145 lbs., and I’ll tell you why history shows that move wouldn't do him any favors. Plus, Magomed Ankalaev has finally done something that's impressed me. And to close the show, an absolutely wild story coming from B.J. Penn, who all...
Mar 18, 2025•28 min•Ep. 443
On today’s episode, I break down down everything I saw Saturday night at UFC 313 in Las Vegas. I have plenty to say about Magomed Ankalaev’s win over Alex Pereira, and why Ankalaev deserves full credit for his performance. And what the heck happened to Pereira? Then, Justin Gaethje’s victory over Rafael Fiziev showed me just how tough Gaethje really is, and it's why I want to see him back in the cage with Max Holloway. Plus, what’s next for both Pereira and Ankalaev? I tell you whether I think a...
Mar 11, 2025•52 min•Ep. 442
On today’s episode, I get you ready for this weekend's UFC 313 showdown in Las Vegas. I’ve witnessed some training sessions up close and personal and I have to say ... Alex Pereira’s preparation is something special. And while I’m hesitant to choose a winner in the main event, Alexander Volkanovski makes no hesitation with his. I'm also liking what I’m hearing from both Rafael Fiziev and Justin Gaethje regarding their respective mindsets heading into next month's UFC 314 bout. And after watching...
Mar 07, 2025•53 min•Ep. 440
On today’s episode, I dive into Alex Pereira coming into fight week 22 pounds overweight, and why I’d love to see him make the move to heavyweight after UFC 313. Then, Justin Gaethje is the betting underdog against Rafael Fiziev—does that surprise you? I also have no reason to believe Dustin Poirier will hang up the gloves any time soon based on the things he's saying recently. And with talks of Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall going nowhere, my sources tell me the UFC hasn't even offered Jones the fi...
Mar 04, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 441
On today’s episode, Rafael Fiziev steps up on short notice to replace Dan Hooker at UFC 313 against Justin Gaethje. While Fiziev said yes, Gaethje is also revealing the names that said no - including Dustin Poirier. Then, I tell you why it was a dirty move for Chris Eubank Jr. to slap Conor Benn in the face with an egg. Plus, Francis Ngannou admits he wasn’t fully confident before the Tyson Fury fight, and I really appreciate his honesty. Also, what will Henry Cejudo do next? Darren Till also wa...
Feb 28, 2025•42 min•Ep. 439
On today’s episode, I look back at UFC Seattle. Why does Brendan Allen keep losing, and how can he get back on track? Then, I give my take on the eye poke that led to the unceremonious end to Song Yadong's defeat of Henry Cejudo, and I tell you how I think the UFC should I’ll share my thoughts on how the UFC should handle eye pokes. And how the heck did Anthony Hernandez end up with the nickname ‘Fluffy’? I also hear Charles Oliveira won’t fight Ilia Topuria because Oliveira thinks he deserves a...
Feb 25, 2025•43 min•Ep. 438
On today’s episode, I react to a slew of breaking news! Ilia Topuria has vacated his featherweight title, and I explain why I respect him for making the move. Then, Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes will fight for vacant belt, and I tell you what excites me most about this fight. Also, with Shavkat Rakhmonov unable to fight at UFC 315, I give my thoughts on Jack Della Maddalena stepping in as his replacement. Plus, I try to make sense of Henry Cejudo fighting Song Yadong this weekend at UFC ...
Feb 21, 2025•44 min•Ep. 437
On today’s episode, I return to mid-December when Gilbert Burns gave me an early Christmas present by posting my phone number online because I claimed he was retired. So, I take your calls and texts (while learning how to group-FaceTime) and try to figure out whether Burns is retired, and what his next matchup should be if he isn’t. To support this program, please leave me a review on Apple Podcasts or submit a rating on my Spotify page. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com...
Feb 18, 2025•49 min•Ep. 436
On today’s episode, I talk about Eric Nicksick's criticism of Sean Strickland’s “uninspiring” performance at UFC 312. Then, Nate Diaz called me, and he told me he wants back with the UFC. Plus, Stipe Miocic claims Francis Ngannou would beat Jon Jones, but does the MMA math back him up? And finally, Dana White gets challenged by the Pillow Fighting Championship, and Paddy Pimblett wants to welcome Ilia Topuria to the lightweight division. To support this program, please leave me a review on Apple...
Feb 14, 2025•43 min•Ep. 435
On today’s episode, I recap UFC 312, and I tell you why I’m pumping the brakes on calling Zhang Weili the best fighter in the UFC following her impressive win over Tatiana Suarez. Plus, just how good is Dricus du Plessis after his dominant over Sean Strickland? And with DDP's callout of Alex Pereira after the fight, I can't help but wonder whether that was the right move for the middleweight champ. And is DDP really the "nice guy" he appears to be? I have my doubts. And finally, I share a funny ...
Feb 11, 2025•33 min•Ep. 434
On today’s episode, I break down why now is the perfect time for Israel Adesanya to retire. Then, I give my thoughts on Conor McGregor spitting on a fan in Las Vegas after getting taunted. Plus, whoever leaked Kevin Lee’s training footage owes him an apology. And why is Ilia Topuria so eager to fight Islam Makhachev? Then, the UFC 312 press conference was one of the nastiest ones I’ve ever seen. And, last week I questioned why Alex Pereira decided to corner Sean Strickland, and now Strickland ha...
Feb 07, 2025•55 min•Ep. 433
On today’s episode, I react to what we saw this past weekend at UFC Saudi Arabia, including my issue with Michael ‘Venom’ Page being the underdog in his win over Shara ‘Bullet’ Magomedov, and why I don’t envy the position that Israel Adesanya finds himself in after losing to Nassourdine Imavov. Plus, Dana White said he will explore other options if they can’t make Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall happen, even though I don’t believe Jones has officially been offered that fight yet. Then, why I should’v...
Feb 04, 2025•48 min•Ep. 432
On today’s episode, I’ll explain why I’m mad about Jake and Logan Paul’s most recent publicity stunt. Then, former rivals Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya are friends now ... do we like that? And, Adesanya says his legacy is cemented -- I’ll tell you whether I agree with him. Also, Shara 'Bullet' Magomedov states the obvious, Alex Pereira is cornering Sean Strickland at UFC 312, and talks of Jon Jones fighting Tom Aspinall have gone quiet. Plus, where would you like to see Conor McGregor fig...
Jan 31, 2025•57 min•Ep. 431
On today’s episode, Jeremy Stephens calls Conor McGregor “Old Cocaine Conor," leading me to take you into the history of their beef. Then, while speaking to the media about his future plans, Islam Makhachev teased a move up to welterweight. And then, Diego Lopes wants a scrap with Alexander Volkanovski, but Bo Nickal apparently has the inside scoop for how UFC 314 will really play out. Plus, I want to know what’s motivating Israel Adesanya to fight Nassourdine Imavov this weekend in Saudi Arabia...
Jan 28, 2025•48 min•Ep. 430
