UFC LEGEND SAYS IAN MACHADO GARY CAN BEAT ISLAM MAKHACHEV

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UFC legend Charles Oliveira believes that Ian Machado has what it takes to defeat Islam Makhachev at UFC 330.

Makhachev is the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in MMA and is a heavy favorite to defeat Machado Garry when the two meet on August 15 in the main event of UFC 330.

But according to Oliveira, who has trained with Garry at Chute Boxe Diego Lima ahead of the fight, the Irishman has what it takes to upset the apple cart and dethrone Makhachev and win the UFC welterweight title.

Charles Oliveira Says Ian Machado Garry Can Beat Islam Makhachev

Speaking to MMAFighting.com, Oliveira explained why he thinks Machado Garry is a live dog against Makhachev.

“He knew he was next in line for the title. And he’s been completely focused on this matchup with Makhachev ever since,” Oliveira said.

“Ian truly has a very good chance of beating Makhachev. I’m not saying that because he’s my friend or because he’s part of our team, but because of what we’ve seen and how he’s been training. We know there’s an incredibly tough guy on the other side, someone who deserves all the respect in the world. He’s humble when promoting a fight, but he’s extremely difficult to deal with inside the cage. He’s outstanding, a really tough fighter. But honestly, in my opinion, Ian has a great chance of winning, because he’s such a strategic fighter and never abandons the game plan.”

Charles Oliveira Explains What Makes Ian Machado Garry Different

According to Oliveira — who it’s worth noting was finished by Makhachev when the two met in 2022 — what makes Machado Garry different from other fighters who have tried to dethrone Makhachev is his high fight IQ.

“The difference with Ian is his intelligence. He never strays from the strategy. Whatever the team plans together with him for the fight, he’ll follow it from start to finish. That’s what sets Ian apart. Once he commits the game plan to his mind, he’ll stick with it all the way through. He won’t change it. That’s the difference Ian brings into the game, into the cage. That’s what makes us happy, because he never drifts away from the plan or loses focus. He gives himself to it 100%. He sticks to the strategy no matter what’s happening, so I think it’s going to be a great fight,” Oliveira said.

Though Oliveira believes that Machado Garry has a good chance to win the fight, the betting odds certainly do not paint the same picture, as Machado Garry is a +260 betting underdog, with Makhachev as a -320 favorite to defend the UFC welterweight title.

We’ll soon find out if what Oliveira is saying is true when Makhachev and Machado Garry lock horns at UFC 330, which takes place on August 15. At that point, we’ll find out if Machado Garry is truly up for the test and can defeat one of the best fighters to ever compete in the UFC, or if the champ is just too good and basically unbeatable in the UFC.

- Adam Martin

DRICUS DU PLESSIS LOCKED CAREER BEST, SAYS ISRAEL ADESANYA

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UFC middleweight Dricus du Plessis looked career-best against Kamaru Usman, according to his longtime rival, Israel Adesanya.

Du Plessis defeated Usman via unanimous decision in the main event of UFC Oklahoma City this past Saturday. It was an impressive performance by du Plessis, who got back into the win column nearly one year after losing the UFC middleweight title to Khamzat Chimaev in a blowout at UFC 319.

It was such a good performance by du Plessis, according to Adesanya, that it may have been the best he’s ever looked in his entire MMA career, which is impressive given he is a former UFC middleweight champion and has two wins over current champ Sean Strickland.

Israel Adesanya Praises Dricus du Plessis

Taking to his YouTube channel, Adesanya showered praise on du Plessis for his dominant showing against Usman at UFC Oklahoma City.

“It’s the best I’ve seen Dricus look. He looked less out of position when he finished punching, when he initiated punching. Sometimes he still did his thing, but he looked really good. Some of the shots he was throwing, the selection, and the timing of the knee for that single-leg, that was a good chess move from their team,” Adesanya said (via MMAFighting.com).

“I wanted Kamaru to get it done, but again, it just shows how good Dricus is. And good on him.”

DDP’s Win Good for African MMA

By putting on an excellent show for the fans — DDP vs. Usman won Fight of the Night at UFC Oklahoma City — Adesanya believes that it just further strengthens African MMA, as all of these fighters were born in Africa and are among the best mixed martial artists in the world.

“It’s good for us anyway. Just for African MMA. Because off this — every time one of these happens, look, another two African fighters fight in the main event, the whole continent is going to watch. Even though it’s just a Fight Night, they’re still gonna watch and support. I think this is just going to expand the talent pool in African MMA more. And I look forward to it,” Adesanya said.

- Adam Martin

CONOR MCGREGOR ANNOUNCES SURGERY AFTER UFC 329 INJURY

"The Notorious" Wrote On Social Media About The Injury And His Plans For The Future

Former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor announced he’ll undergo surgery following a knee injury sustained during the main event of UFC 329.

McGregor ended a five-year hiatus when he returned to the Octagon at T-Mobile Arena on July 11. But his main event fight with former featherweight and BMF champion Max Holloway lasted just 69 seconds when a knee injury sustained in the bout’s opening seconds proved too much to overcome and referee Mike Beltran was forced to wave off the contest.

Immediately following the bout, McGregor shared an update to his followers on social media.

“My head gasket is gone. Destroyed,” he wrote on X.

“I had no injury / injuries going into the fight. I was throwing kicks, planted and jumping, all throughout camp as well as backstage before the fight. This came out of nowhere. I am beyond dark here. I can only describe it as hell.”

McGregor continued and directly addressed suggestions online that he was carrying an injury into the bout.

“I was so sharp and so ready for this fight, I cannot believe what has happened,” he wrote.

“The talk of me being off while walking in to the fight is nonsense. I was calm, ready, and confident. I am in shock what has taken place. The devil is literally staring at me right in front of my face here. I am not engaging. I will be at church tomorrow.”

McGregor then defiantly declared that he will fight back from his latest injury setback to return to the Octagon again.

“I will overcome this. I will not be deterred. I will return.”

Speaking to reporters backstage at the UFC 329 post-fight press conference, UFC President and CEO Dana White offered his thoughts on McGregor’s situation.

“Listen, everybody who knows anything about the fight business – and it’s been a big topic of discussion leading up to this fight – five years off, in this sport, is rough,” he said.

“Who knew what Conor was capable of as far as cardio, or whatever else, after a five-year layoff. And, well, there you go.

“We’re assuming [he sustained a] blown ACL. I’m no doctor, but that’s what I figured when I saw it, and the doctors think the same thing, too.”

Conor McGregor is consoled by Bruce Buffer after suffering a loss against Max Holloway in a welterweight fight during the UFC 329 event at T-Mobile Arena on July 11, 2026 in Las Vegas, NV (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)

White said he wasn’t sure what the future held for McGregor, but he didn’t have to wait long for “The Notorious” to make clear his plans as the Irishman posted an update to his Instagram on Monday.

“Surgery. Prehab. Return to martial arts practice. Go again,” he wrote on X.

- SIMON HEAD, ON X: @SIMONHEADSPORT

'WHAT YOU DON'T SEE...' - DOCTOR BREAKS DOWN FULL EXTENT OF CONOR MCGREGOR'S INJURY AGAINST MAX HOLLOWAY

 McGregor's UFC return ended with a knee injury after just 69 seconds.

A doctor has explained the diagnostic details that might have been missed amid speculation over the extent of Conor McGregor's knee injury in his comeback fight in Las Vegas.

McGregor 'blew out' his knee right at the beginning of his welterweight main event against Max Holloway at UFC 329 on Saturday.

The Irishman appeared to injure himself while attempting his first high kick of the fight, which was subsequently awarded to Holloway by technical knockout after just 69 seconds.

McGregor now faces a spell on the sidelines after a five-year hiatus. Holloway promised that McGregor vs Holloway 3 will appear on a future card, acknowledging the unsatisfying manner of the conclusion.

The injured fighter will undergo scans to confirm the extent of his injury, which commentators immediately identified as a potential rupture of his anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

If that proves to be the case, the 37-year-old can expect to be out of action for several months.

Dr Brian Stutterer is the expert behind a YouTube channel through which he assesses the medical stories that occur in the world of sport and he has been analysing the footage of the abortive UFC 329 bout.

"The commentators were talking about it looked like [McGregor] blew out his knee," said Sutterer in a six-minute video that forensically examines the moments leading up to Holloway's TKO victory.

"I will admit, yes, this position looks like the classic position that you will see with an ACL tear in terms of the rotation of how the foot is externally rotated, the idea that we see a little bit of the knee going inward, the trunk is leaning over his injured side.

Nevertheless, Stutterer offered some reason for doubt about the specific nature of the injury, which UFC head honcho indicated could be an ACL tear, but Stutterer has pointed out can be hastily evaluated even by the UFC's own medical staff at ringside. Only a scan will confirm the reality.

"But what you don't see on this injury is the classic pivot shift that you will sometimes see with an ACL tear," he added.

"Now that doesn't mean that this is not an ACL tear, but you at least don't see that stereotypic kind of pathognomonic shift forward of the tibia and then pop backwards like we would if you could confirm 100% that this was an ACL."

Will McGregor pursue another comeback?

While Holloway said after the fight that the appetite is there to go again after one win each in two McGregor vs Holloway fights, 13 years apart, there has to be some doubt over the 37-year-old's desire to get himself back into the kind of shape that would be required to actually win it.

Saturday's brief appearance was McGregor's first in the octagon since 2021 and marked a third consecutive defeat after back-to-back losses against Dustin Poirier.

McGregor's third consecutive loss dropped him to a 22-7 career record. He hasn't won two in a row since the end of 2016, when he won the UFC lightweight championship by beating Eddie Alvarez.

He lost the belt to Khabib Nurmagomedov by submission two years later.

Featured Image Credit: Getty Images

- Chris Nee

CONOR MCGREGOR ISSUES WARNING TO MAX HOLLOWAY AHEAD OF UFC RETURN

Conor McGregor will return to action for the first time in five years when he takes on Max Holloway in Las Vegas next weekend

Conor McGregor speaks out(Image: YouTube - The Ariel Helwani Show)

Conor McGregor has warned Max Holloway he will face the full brunt of his welterweight power.

McGregor is a week away from fighting for the first time in five years as he prepares for his rematch with Holloway. The rivals first met in 2013 when the Irishman won a points decision at featherweight. McGregor will fight at 170lb for the fourth time in Las Vegas as he welcomes Holloway to the division.

And McGregor believes the Hawaiian will notice the jump. “I feel great, I feel absolutely amazing,” he told The Mac Life. “The work has been exceptional; no corners cut, you know, no flash. We’ve been quiet this camp, and we’ve been at work, so, that’s confidence. If there’s a lack of confidence, you need to share things to get this ego boost. We don’t need it. We’ll do it on the night. I’m excited by it. I’m excited by my team and my country.

“I love a rematch. Who doesn’t love a rematch? The story builds, the tension builds, the fans get excited, they’ve got comparisons, they’ve got, you know, it’s great for business. I’m all for a good rematch. Listen, there’s a different thud when you fight against me.

"I fought against Max many years ago, and I look forward to my improvements on it. Danger will be everywhere inside the Octagon for Max. We are very aware of him in this gym, in this camp. I’ll be out with my paint brush, you know, ready to put on my masterpiece."

Holloway, however, has no fears over his step up in weight. “My thoughts on the fight being at 170 was like, who cares?" he said. “Weight is just a number. Real gladiators back in the day, they didn’t walk around with a scale.

“You show up and you fight, and I’m a fighter. Open weight class, whatever weight class. I’m glad I get to share the Octagon with him.”

-Martin Domin

REPORT: FBI STOPPED VIOLENT TERRORIST PLOT AIMED AT UFC WHITE HOUSE, DONALD TRUMP RESPONDS

UFC White House might have avoided more than just a little bad weather.

WASHINGTON, DC - JUNE 14: A general view during the UFC Freedom 250 Fan Fest at The Ellipse on June 14, 2026 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Zuffa LLC)

On Tuesday, Fox News reported that FBI officials disrupted an alleged terrorist plot that involved explosive drones and snipers with the target being attendees of this past Sunday’s UFC event, which took place on the South Lawn of the White House, with President Donald Trump and numerous officials and VIPs watching, as well as at the nearby Ellipse Park, where nearly 80,000 fans were expected to be in attendance.

According to the report, the alleged plot would have seen explosive-laden drones strike buildings at the event with the intention to force an emergency evacuation. People would then be steered towards an area where they could be shot at by snipers. A “second wave” would then directly attack the White House gates.

UFC White House took place June 14, and the potential threat was reportedly first discovered by the FBI on June 10, with the alleged suspects gathering for final preparations in Fredericksburg, Va. One suspect was taken into custody in Cincinnati and, as of Monday, five suspects are in custody with investigators identifying 23 people as being involved in the plot.

“In the days leading up to this weekend, our special agents, mission support personnel, and technical security teams worked around the clock to identify those responsible and hold them accountable,” Secret Service Director Sean Curran said in a statement to Fox News. “Equally important to our protective mission is ensuring accountability through the justice system. To that end, our formal comments regarding the specifics of this case will be made through court filings.”

Ahead of Sunday’s event, which was first announced in June 2025, much of the talk revolved around how UFC CEO Dana White and his team would deal with the numerous logistical issues involved with putting on a show at the White House, with security being a chief concern. Weather was also a major topic of discussion, though the event proceeded with only a delay to the start time despite inclement weather in the surrounding areas.

FBI Director Kash Patel praised his team for preventing the alleged plot.

“While the result represented the best of investigative work, it was also nothing out of the ordinary for this law enforcement team,” Patel said. “We are built to detect, respond to, and bring to justice those who threaten the lives of American citizens—particularly during large gatherings like the historic UFC [Freedom] 250 fight. That’s exactly what we did here.”

At the G7 summit in Évian-les-Bains, France, on Tuesday, Trump was asked about the FBI stopping the alleged plot and he replied that he wasn’t aware.

“I haven’t heard about it,” Trump said. “The attack that I watched were the fighters. … They were as good a fights as I’ve ever seen, the best. That last fight was brutal and the two last—all of the fights were good. It was all good, it was a great evening, it was very different for the White House.”

In the main event of Sunday’s card, Justin Gaethje scored a dramatic fourth-round knockout over Ilia Topuria to unify the UFC lightweight titles, while Ciryl Gane became interim heavyweight champion a second time with a knockout over former two-division champion Alex Pereira.

- Alexander K. Lee

PRESIDENT TRUMP ATTENDS UFC FREEDOM 250 FIGHT AT THE WHITE HOUSE ON HIS 80TH BIRTHDAY

 

FRANK WARREN DROPS CONTRACT BOMBSHELL THAT STOPS DANA WHITE FROM PROMOTING ANTHONY JOSAHUA VS TYSON FURY

 

Frank Warren has poured cold water on Dana White's claims that he will promote Anthony Joshua vs Tyson Fury.

Warren told assembled media on Saturday night, after Daniel Dubois' gutsy stoppage win over Fabio Wardley, that it is contractually impossible for the Zuffa Boxing chief to be involved in such a capacity.

Joshua and Fury have signed to fight each other after their respective tune-up fightsCredit: Getty

"Well, he's not [promoting Joshua vs Fury] because the contract with Tyson says that Zuffa will not be able to promote that fight," said Warren.

"I don't know [where he has got that from]. Ask him. I mean, it is just b******."

When Warren's comments were put to White at the Zuffa Boxing 06 post-fight press conference on Sunday, he quipped: "Then he must be right."

"I'm going to leave that alone," he added. "Apparently, I'm not the promoter, according to some people."

Queensberry vs Zuffa Boxing

Earlier this year, Warren threatened legal action against Saudi Arabian state-owned entertainment and hospitality company Sela and TKO Group Holdings, the American media conglomerate that owns the UFC and WWE.

TKO inked a five-year partnership with Sela and Saudi powerbroker Turki Alalshikh to form Zuffa Boxing last year.

Warren alleged in a 'letter before action' sent to relevant parties that the joint venture breached contracts that his promotional outfit, Queensberry, had signed with the Saudis and TKO.

Queensberry claims to have signed an exclusive deal with Sela in September 2023 to provide boxing services.

Warren's company says it also reached a separate agreement with TKO, granting the sports giant access to Queenberry's online data, including details of its contract with Sela.

Queensberry alleges that TKO and Sela used privileged information to go behind its back to create their new entity.

Warren has threatened legal action against TKO and SelaCredit: Mark Robinson/Matchroom

There has been no development on the case since February, when it was revealed Warren was preparing legal action.

Alalshikh and Warren sat next to each other at ringside for Fury's comeback fight with Arslanbek Makhmudov, and will work together for Joshua vs Fury, which is being targeted for the back end of the year after both men participate in tune-up fights.

Discussing the current state of his relationship with the Saudis during a recent appearance on the Ariel Helwani Show, Warren said: "Riyadh Season for me was a blast, everyone cooperated to put on some great shows, and I enjoyed it.

"But things are what they are, and you have to keep evolving and moving on.

"They are talking about Agit [Kabayel] fighting [Oleksandr] Usyk, and Agit is with us, so if that is going to happen, then we are going to have to work together on it.

"The same with Hamzah Sheeraz, it's the same thng."

- George Glinski

ALUCE PEREIRA DELIVERS KNOCKOUT OF YEAR CONTENDER AT UFC VEGAS 115

UFC Vegas 115 was another night filled with that trope that a card that seems weak on paper and is filled with a lot of unknown names can be more entertaining than some of the bigger cards the UFC puts on. From Renato Moicano’s submission win over Chris Duncan, to any of the other exciting finishes on the night, to a seemingly soccer-kick KO (that wasn’t a KO), which generated a lot of controversy, UFC Vegas 115 was a fire card.

And yet, one of the bigger highlights from the night came from the undercard. And for the second straight week, a fight on a UFC card has produced a Knockout of the Year contender. Last week, it was Alexa Grasso sending Maycee Barber into oblivion. This week, it was the strength of the hard-hitting Alice Pereira.

First of all, no, Alice Pereira is not related to Alex Pereira. But when you look at what Alice Pereira did on this night, it might be hard for some fans not to draw a connection between the two.

During the UFC Vegas 115 prelims, Alice Pereira squared off with Hailey Cowan. The first round proved well for Pereira, known as “Golden Girl.” Pereira was able to beat her opponent to the (literal) punch, using her quickness and power to batter Cowan during the opening five minutes. Cowan, in fact, was visibly bruised around her face as a result of that frame.

But Cowan is a tough fighter who was not to be deterred. In the second round, Cowan landed a major slam in the center of the Octagon, and it appeared that she was in control of the action. Cowan was unable to do much with her ground game, however, and she didn’t seem to put up much of a fight as Pereira got the action back to the feet.

And then, just as round two was coming to an end, Pereira unleashed a devastating knee that landed directly on Cowan’s face. Cowan dropped in a heap, and the referee quickly stepped in to wave off the fight.

It was definitely a needed performance from Pereira. She dropped her UFC debut to Montse Rendon at Noche UFC 3 in September, a performance that Pereira has openly admitted she’d like to move on from. Well, here, move on is what she did.

Pereira displayed the power that got her attention from the UFC in the first place. And the thing is, even though her name is “Golden Girl,” she isn’t an elderly woman from the classic TV show. Pereira is just 20 years old.

- TOM ALBANO

JOAQUIN BUCKLEY 'CLAPS BACK' AT SHAKUR STEVENSON

 

UFC 324 FACE-OFF PRESS CONFERENCE

 

JON JONES CALL'S TOM ASPINALL'S WRESTLING AND JIU-JITSU 'INCREDIBLY OVERRATED' AFTER UFC 321

Former UFC champion Jon Jones gives a blunt breakdown of Tom Aspinall’s performance against Ciryl Gane, questioning key parts of the heavyweight’s skill set.

Jon Jones - Image credit @UFC X.com @noscripts.podcast Instagram

Jon Jones had a few sharp observations after watching the UFC 321 main event in Abu Dhabi, where Tom Aspinall defended his heavyweight title against Ciryl Gane.

The bout ended early after Gane’s accidental eye poke forced officials to stop the fight, leaving fans without a clear result. Even so, Jones said he saw enough to form a harsh opinion on the reigning champion’s overall skill set.

Jones Gives His Take

During an episode of the No Scripts podcast, the former light heavyweight and heavyweight champion broke down what he noticed in the short exchange between the two contenders.

“Tom’s a great athlete, but I do feel like he’s a one-trick pony,” Jones said. “I believe that his wrestling and jiu-jitsu is incredibly overrated. He has a beautiful one-two… that’s really about it.”

Jones added that Gane appeared to be finding his rhythm before the fight ended.

“He couldn’t touch Ciryl Gane at all,” Jones continued. “That’s the way I felt. I feel like Gane was just getting warmed up.”

Jon Jones reacts to Tom Aspinall’s performance against Ciryl Gane 👀

“I believe [Tom’s] wrestling and jiu jitsu is incredibly overrated. I got to learn a lot about his patterns in his last fight. Beautiful 1-2, but that’s really about it. He couldn’t touch Ciryl Gane.”

(via… pic.twitter.com/E4tB2OcgBA

— Championship Rounds (@ChampRDS) November 6, 2025

The two heavyweights have had friction before. Aspinall once accused Jones of avoiding him before the former champion vacated the belt and stepped away from competition. Jones’ latest comments only add to the ongoing tension between the pair.

After the no-contest, Dana White said a rematch between Aspinall and Gane is likely next. Some viewers thought Gane looked sharp before the stoppage, giving the rematch added intrigue.

Aspinall will now aim to deliver a complete performance that could quiet his critics — including Jones — and show that his grappling game deserves more credit.

- Jake Blend

ALEX PEREIRA RESPONDS TO KHAMZAT CHIMAEV'S SHOCK CALLOUT FOLLOWING UFC 320 TITLE WIN

With Alex Pereira back at the top of the light heavyweight heap, there are plenty of fighters that would like to fight the legendary Brazilian.

This past Saturday, the premier promotion returned to Las Vegas for UFC 320, headlined by a light heavyweight title fight between Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira.

After such a disappointing performance against the Russian earlier this year, Pereira made the correct adjustments and went on to knock Ankalaev out in the first round to reclaim his title.

And having reclaimed his light heavyweight title, ‘Poatan’ will now have several fighters waiting in line to fight him next, with him once again being one of the biggest stars in the sport.

Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images

Pereira responds to shock callout from Khamzat Chimaev

Almost immediately after Pereira’s title winning performance, he was congratulated by the UFC middleweight champion Khamzat Chimaev, but as part of his congratulations message, ‘Borz’ told Pereira it is time for them to settle their unfinished business.

Rumors have previously circulated that Pereira and Chimaev have been linked to fight each other and the rivalry seemed to hot up when Chimaev trolled Pereira over his knockout loss to Israel Adesanya.

The Brazilian even went on to propose a bet that he wouldn’t be taken down by Chimaev which led to even more excitement for a potential clash between the two.

However, following Chimaev’s shock callout, Pereira issued a response, stating that he is not interested in fighting the Chechen.

“Thanks for congratulating me but all I want is a super fight, I wanna fight at heavyweight but all I can say is thank you,” Pereira said.

Following his win, the 38-year-old revealed that he had a long callout for Jon Jones planned, but following the tragic death of Jones’ brother, Arthur Jones, the Brazilian decided to pay his respects to the family with a moment of silence.

Dana White hesitant to allow Pereira to move up to heavyweight

If Pereira does eventually move up to heavyweight and somehow claims a title at the weight class, he would become the first fighter in history to win a title in three separate weight divisions.

Despite that, UFC boss Dana White is hesitant to allow Pereira to move up in weight as there are several contenders at light heavyweight that are deserving of a title shot.

Carlos Ulberg recently picked up his ninth win in a row, and before UFC 320, both Pereira and Ankalaev highlighted him as the likely next contender.

- Jamie Theodosi

PROS REACT AFTER KHAMZAT CHIMAEV DOMINATES DRICUS DUPLESSIS AT UFC 319

Tonight’s UFC 319 event was headlined by a highly anticipated middleweight title fight between Dricus Du Plessis and Khamzat Chimaev.

Du Plessis (23-3 MMA) was looking to earn his third consecutive title defense when he took to the Octagon this evening. ‘Stillknocks’ had most previously competed at February’s UFC 312 event in Sydney, where he scored a unanimous decision victory over former title holder Sean Strickland. Prior to that, the South African had submitted Israel Adesanya at UFC 305 in August of last year.

Meanwhile, Khamzat Chimaev (15-0 MMA) entered his first career UFC title fight sporting a perfect professional record, with his most previous win coming via first-round submission against former UFC middleweight champion Robert Whittaker. Prior to that impressive showing, ‘Borz’ was coming off a razor close majority decision win over Kamaru Usman at UFC 294.

Tonight’s UFC 319 main event proved to be a one-sided affair. Khamzat Chimaev was able to dominate Dricus Du Plessis for four straight rounds, using his superior grappling to overwhelm and control the South African. Although ‘DDP’ was able to mount some offense in round five, it wasn’t nearly enough to rectify the dominance that Chimaev put forth in the opening four rounds. After 25-minutes of action, Chimaev was awarded a much-deserved unanimous decision win.

Official UFC 319 Results: Khamzat Chimaev def. Dricus Du Plessis by unanimous decision (50-44 x3)

Check out how the pros reacted to ‘Du Plessis vs. Chimaev’ below:

BIG FIGHT IN THE MW DIV!

If Chimaev doesn’t take him out in the 1st couple rounds,

I’m afraid DDP will take it home. #UFC319

— #OnAmission4Gold (@KelvinGastelum) August 17, 2025

The strikers have been on a streak I think it’s time a grappler wins

— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) August 17, 2025

Here we go! Driccus by Late stoppage. Or khamzat in first round annihilation. Got all my bases covered with that one 😂

— michael (@bisping) August 17, 2025

Dricus Du Plessis is about to shock the world #UFC319

— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) August 17, 2025

Let’s go DDP. In a perfect world DDP wins and Fluff gets his go next!! 👹🐓🏆 #UFC319

— Max Griffin (@MaxPainGriffin) August 17, 2025

Is dricus kissing 🧁 Chenchen at end?

— Paulo Costa (@BorrachinhaMMA) August 17, 2025

This is going to be a good stare down! #UFC319

— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) August 17, 2025

I think This is the fight that will help set DDP apart from other known champions – in the fans eyes. #UFC319

— Dominick Cruz (@DominickCruz) August 17, 2025

Khamzat just landed a significant strike before the fight even started #UFC319

— Henry Cejudo (@HenryCejudo) August 17, 2025

Double leg was to easy not to go right back to it

— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) August 17, 2025

That was a stressful first round lmao

— Terrance McKinney (@twrecks155) August 17, 2025

How fun would Khamzat vs Islam be?? Damn if we coulda had that fight 🔥🔥🔥🔥

— Terrance McKinney (@twrecks155) August 17, 2025

Very few killers in this game!

— Michael Johnson (@Menace155) August 17, 2025

Is Usman the uncrowned middleweight champion?!

— Aljamain Sterling (@funkmasterMMA) August 17, 2025

Can’t Fight

— Nathan Diaz (@NateDiaz209) August 17, 2025

Has there ever been such a one sided championship fight before??

— Terrance McKinney (@twrecks155) August 17, 2025

Absolute domination thus far from Chimaev. #UFC319

— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) August 17, 2025

2-1 DDP?

— Chael Sonnen (@ChaelSonnen) August 17, 2025

Chimaev dominating the later rounds was not on my 2025 bingo card #UFC319

— #OnAmission4Gold (@KelvinGastelum) August 17, 2025

15 years ago Silva pulled off an amazing 5th round comeback for the 185lb title. Seems like DDP would need such a miracle aswell. #UFC319

— Alan Jouban (@AlanJouban) August 17, 2025

Post-fight reactions to Khamzat Chimaev defeating Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 319:

I really gotta lock in.

— Bo Nickal (@NoBickal) August 17, 2025

Chechnya’s first UFC Champion! Congrats!

— Conor McGregor (@TheNotoriousMMA) August 17, 2025

Told you it would be easy

— Belal Muhammad (@bullyb170) August 17, 2025

Chimaev beat DDP with the same pace style and pressure as always! #ufc319

— Dominick Cruz (@DominickCruz) August 17, 2025

Im probably the only one in the UFC that can out grapple that little whore for 5 rounds….

Well looks like I gotta stack some Ws to fight that little bitch lmao

— Sean Strickland (@SStricklandMMA) August 17, 2025

Who would you like to see Chimaev fight next following his victory over Du Plessis this evening in Chicago?

- Chris Taylor

KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV SENDS MESSAGE TO JON JONES FOLLOWING UFC RETIREMENT

Khabib Nurmagomedov has reacted to Jon Jones’ retirement with a message for the future UFC Hall of Famer.

During the UFC Baku post-fight press conference, Dana White announced that Jon Jones has retired from pro MMA competition. While many were hoping that “Bones” would face Tom Aspinall in a heavyweight title unification bout, it wasn’t meant to be. Aspinall is now the undisputed UFC Heavyweight Champion.

As for Jones, he walks away from MMA as an all-time great. Nurmagomedov, who is another legend of the fight game, had some kind words for “Bones.”

Khabib Nurmagomedov Praises Jon Jones Following Retirement

In a new post on his Facebook page, Khabib Nurmagomedov gave Jon Jones his flowers for a career that might never be replicated.

“My congratulations legend,” Nurmagomedov wrote. “Even we was not friends but you are the best who ever do it in UFC history and you inspire millions of people around the world you have nothing more to prove in this sport.”

Jones ends his pro MMA career with a record of 28-1, 1 NC. The lone loss was a controversial disqualification against Matt Hamill back in 2009. Infamous referee Steve Mazzagatti disqualified “Bones” for using 12-6 elbows, which were illegal at the time. Still, many felt Jones should’ve been awarded the TKO finish before even throwing those elbows.

Bones” is reportedly facing legal trouble once again, but he recently hinted on social media that the facts haven’t been reported accurately. Jones allegedly left the scene of a traffic accident back in February and is facing a criminal misdemeanor charge. Some have even questioned if this is what led to “Bones” deciding to retire, but Jones’ legal team told Ariel Helwani that their client wasn’t driving. The legal team also claimed an intoxicated woman used a false accusation against Jones to avoid an arrest for DWI.

- Fernando Quiles Jr.

TOM ASPINALL INSTALLED AS UFC CHAMPION AFTER JON JONES CONFIRMS RETIREMENT

Britain’s Tom Aspinall has been upgraded to UFC undisputed heavyweight champion following the official retirement of Jon Jones.

UFC president Dana White ended months of uncertainty in the heavyweight division by delivering the news after Saturday’s Fight Night in Azerbaijan.

Aspinall spent 19 months as interim champion and is only the third Briton to become a UFC champion.

American Jones – considered one of the greatest mixed martial arts fighters of all time – had not competed since defeating Stipe Miocic in November.

“Jon Jones called us last night and retired,” White said.

“Jon Jones is officially retired. Tom Aspinall is the heavyweight champion of the UFC.

“Do I regret the time that I gave (Jones to decide)? Listen, if you look at what he’s accomplished in the sport, no.”

Aspinall had unsuccessfully campaigned to fight 37-year-old Jones.

Reacting to the news, the 32-year-old, who last fought in July, posted on Instagram: “For you fans, it’s time to get this heavyweight division going. An active undisputed champion.”

Aspinall is expected to defend his title this summer or in early autumn, with number-one contender Ciryl Gane a likely opponent.

“I obviously feel bad for Tom that he lost all that time and obviously money, but we’ll make it up to him,” said White.

“Tom Aspinall’s a good guy. He’s been incredible through this whole process.

“He’s been willing to do anything, fight him (Jones) anywhere at any time and do this, and now he’s like ‘I’ll fight anybody – you tell me who and I’ll fight them’.”

- PA

FRANCIS NGANNOU MAKES UFC RETURN SINCE RELEASE AMID POTENTIAL U-TURN ON COMEBACK

Francis Ngannou made a first appearance at a UFC event since leaving the promotion - to support friend Kamaru Usman.

Ngannou left the UFC in 2023 and was stripped of his heavyweight title, as he failed to agree a new deal with Dana White's promotion.

Ngannou returned to the UFC stage to support friend Kamaru UsmanCredit: Getty

The Cameroon star didn't leave on entirely good terms and has barely batted an eye at the UFC since signing with rivals PFL.

But his coach Eric Nicksick recently hinted that he would be open to a comeback to the roster, despite previously suggesting he would never return.

Jon Jones issued a call-out to Ngannou and hinted that the fight could get made, but Dana White didn't budge on a new signature of his former champion.

Although now relations appear to have improved again, with Ngannou attending the UFC Atlanta weigh-ins.

It was the 38-year-old's first arrival at any UFC event since 2023.

He even came up on stage as friend and former UFC champion Usman took to the scales to weigh in for his huge showdown with Joaquin Buckley.

Ngannou received a rousing reception from fans, as his status as a hugely popular fighter has clearly been retained.

And it sent the MMA fraternity into a frenzy, with many demanding he faces either Jones or Tom Aspinall.

But his coach Nicksick believes right now he would likely struggle to exit his deal with the PFL.

On his debut at his new home, Ngannou became the heavyweight champion beating Renan Ferreira last year.

Ngannou received a warm welcome up on stageCredit: Getty

But he has yet to fight since, and has even teased a return to boxing after two outings against Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury.

A more likely option than a UFC comeback could be a two-fight deal with Deontay Wilder.

And the 'Bronze Bomber' insists talks are still ongoing.

‘Yeah, I'd love to fight Ngannou. It’s a lot of things going on," he said.

"I think that fight is still stirring up. We’re still talking about it. Certain things have been laid out.

We do one fight boxing and one fight MMA, fair is fair. We’re just trying to figure out how we want the segment to go with me and Ngannou. I’m definitely interested; he is as well.

Ngannou last fought in the UFC in his win over Cyril Gane in 2022Credit: Getty

"I guess it’s just a matter of time, time is always the matter, and then when you execute that you always get a place and a date, and then you can start the promotion.

"I think that’s something that’s looking to be created, something that is looking to be done.

"People are going to look forward to that, I’m going to look forward to that. Stay tuned."

- Ben Davies

KHABIB NURMAGOMEDOV CAME 'VERY CLOSE' TO LOSING UNDEFEATED RECORD IN UFC FIGHT WATCHED BY 26 MILLION RUSSIANS

Khabib Nurmagomedov was largely dominant throughout his career, but he did survive one scare.

‘The Eagle’ achieved a largely unrivaled level of dominance inside the cage, winning all 29 of his professional outings.

Before Nurmagomedov retired in 2020, the Dagestani defeated the likes of Edson Barboza and Al Iaquinta en route to the UFC lightweight title before defending it against Conor McGregor, Dustin Poirier, and Justin Gaethje.

But while very few provided any sort of threat to the elite wrestling specialist, one of Nurmagomedov’s final opponents gave him a scare.

Khabib Nurmagomedov admitted Dustin Poirier was ‘very close’ to a submission at UFC 242

11 months on from Nurmagomedov’s UFC 229 win over McGregor – and a year before his final fight – the undefeated Russian faced the then-interim champion, Poirier.

The pair headlined UFC 242 in Abu Dhabi, where a crowd full of Nurmagomedov loyalists witnessed ‘The Eagle’ submit ‘The Diamond’ via rear-naked choke in round three.

But the triumph wasn’t without adversity for the champion.

In round two, Poirier threatened to pull off an almighty upset when he attacked Nurmagomedov’s neck with a guillotine choke.

While he ultimately escaped, the Dagestani admitted during his post-fight press conference that the submission was a little too close for comfort.

“The only thing that was very close was the guillotine,” Nurmagomedov said. “First time, it was a very good guillotine.

“First time it was close, second time I give him because I felt like he lost so much energy, so much power. This is part of the game; how I play with my opponents.”

Khabib Nurmagomedov’s win over Dustin Poirier was watched by roughly 26 million in Russia

Had Poirier found an extra squeeze to force a tap at UFC 242, Nurmagomedov would have lost his undefeated record in front of millions of his compatriots.

A report from Russia Today soon after the event revealed that the Dagestani UFC star’s second lightweight title defense racked up an incredible 26 million views across broadcasting platforms in Russia.

Since retiring from active MMA competition in 2020, Nurmagomedov has frequently appeared in the corners of his teammates and fellow countrymen.

And the 36-year-old’s continued involvement in the sport looks set after Nurmagomedov revealed plans for a new training center in his native Dagestan.

- Harvey Leonard

ISLAM MAKHACHEV SENDS DEFIANT DIRECT MESSAGE TO JACK DELLA MADDALENA FOLLOWING UFC 315 TITLE WIN

Islam Makhachev’s next fight has finally become clear following UFC 315 this past Saturday.

In the UFC 315 main event in Montreal on Saturday, Jack Della Maddalena dethroned Belal Muhammad to become the new welterweight champion after a five round war.

Following the fight, Muhammad was trolled by Dricus Du Plessis, the UFC middleweight champion, after Belal Muhammad previously hinted at a future move up to 185lbs.

Ahead of the UFC 315 main event, UFC boss Dana White claimed that the result would determine both Islam Makhachev’s and Ilia Topuria’s next fights, as the two were linked to fight each other but Makhachev continued to remain hopeful of moving up in weight.

Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC

Islam Makhachev sends Jack Della Maddalena a defiant message

Islam Makhachev was in an awkward position coming into the welterweight title fight as Muhammad is his teammate so he was supporting him, however, he knew ‘Remember The Name’ stood in his way.

Immediately after Della Maddalena’s win in the main event, the Russian took to social media to declare his next fight will come against the Australian, stating that his plan to become double champion is on.

Although Della Maddalena isn’t teammates with Alexander Volkanovski, the two are close friends, and in his Octagon interview, the Australian stated that he wants to beat Makhachev for Volkanovski, after he suffered two losses to the Russian.

“You are not Volkanovski, I will show you different levels. Keep my belt clean,” Makhachev told Della Maddalena in a post on social media.

Volkanovski and Makhachev first fought in 2023 at UFC 284 when Makhachev very narrowly picked up the unanimous decision win in what was an extremely close fight.

Jack Della Maddalena responds to Islam Makhachev

With Della Maddalena completely open to fighting the lightweight champion in his first title defense, he issued his response to Makhachev in the UFC 315 post-fight press conference.

“Come and get it, come get it,” Della Maddalena responded to Makhachev.

Makhachev revealed earlier this week that he won’t be vacating his 155lb title in pursuit of the second belt and it is still unclear when he may return to the Octagon with his opponent now clear.

- Jamie Theodosi

ALEX PEREIRA THREATENS DANA WHITE WITH UFC RETIREMENT FOLLOWING ROCKY CONVERSATIONS WITH PROMOTIONS

Alex Pereira has shockingly revealed that he is considering leaving MMA for good.

Pereira hasn't fought since dropping his light heavyweight title to Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 313 in March.

He suffered a unanimous decision defeat to the Russian in the main event of the Las Vegas card, but it seemed like both men were destined to rematch as soon as possible due to their reactions in the aftermath of the card.

However, in a shocking turn of events, Brazilian superstar Pereira has threatened UFC CEO Dana White by saying that he has considered 'not fighting anymore' in what would be a huge blow to the promotion.

"I always answered the UFC’s calls," he wrote on X.

"But if they want to play with me, we can do that. I’ve never spoken poorly of the UFC but with what I’ve just heard I’m disheartened.

"I’ve already had thoHe finished 2024 having defended the heavyweight title three times, knocking out fighters including Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill.

However, his defeat at UFC 313 left him in a position of needing to beat Ankalaev in a rematch to pursue a future in the heavyweight division.ughts of not fighting anymore, and after what was just relayed to me this may be the start."

The 37-year-old was undefeated at light heavyweight before locking horns with Ankalaev.

The loss meant his hopes of a future blockbuster with Jon Jones had come to an abrupt end after months of teasing a move to the heavyweight division.

‘Poatan’ had bounced back from losing the UFC middleweight title to Israel Adesanya to go on a tear at 205lbs.

He finished 2024 having defended the heavyweight title three times, knocking out fighters including Jiri Prochazka and Jamahal Hill.

However, his defeat at UFC 313 left him in a position of needing to beat Ankalaev in a rematch to pursue a future in the heavyweight division.

Speaking after the Las Vegas card, UFC CEO White said Pereira will ‘probably’ get an immediate rematch.

Pereira, meanwhile, talked up the rematch in his post-fight reaction on social media.

“[I’m] gonna rest a bit. I’ll be back like I've always done. This has already happened, but I’m good," he said.

“I’m grateful for all your support, for all your love [and] always supporting me.

“I’m receiving so many messages of great encouragement. I’m here with my people: my family, my team, my children.

“Everyone’s here. Everyone’s here with me. I’m gonna have some pizza. That’s that, life continues.

“[I’m] gonna make some adjustments for the rematch and I’ll be back much better. You can count on it.

“All good everyone. Never give up on your dreams. Chama.”

But for now, it seems like Pereira is extremely frustrated at not getting an imminent rematch.

Should the Brazilian follow through on his threat to quit the UFC, there would be no shortage of suitors wanting to have him fight on their respective promotion.

However, he could take a completely alternative route to continue his combat career.

Ahead of his defeat to Ankalaev at UFC 313, Pereira was asked about who he would like to face next had he got past the Russian.

Pereira name-dropped UFC middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis and Jones but added another staggering name to his potential hit-list in the form of unified heavyweight champion Oleksandr Usyk.

“Those I see possibly happening, it doesn't depend on me it depends on the UFC, so whatever the UFC want me to do I will do it," Pereira added.

Usyk, 38, holds the IBO, WBC and WBO world heavyweight titles and will look to re-add the IBF world heavyweight crown to his collection when he takes on Daniel Dubois at Wembley on July 19.

But after they contest the rematch, Usyk could look to take on a money-spinning exhibition bout against Pereira.

There may be merit to the idea given UFC president White has joined forces with Saudi boxing chief Turki Alalshikh to spearhead a new boxing venture.

When asked for his response to the news of White dipping his toes into the boxing world, Pereira expressed his excitement and even dropped a hint about where and when his dream bout against Usyk would happen.

"Absolutely, I was hyped," Pereira said.

“I was happy when I heard the news. Who knows, September, Saudi Arabia.”

- Lewis Thompson