Former UFC champion and commentator Michael Bisping believes stability will return to the men’s divisions after a period of frequent title changes. UFC belts changed hands 11 times last year, but Bisping expects far fewer switches going forward. He predicts only the flyweight and bantamweight titles will belong to different champions by the end of 2026. At flyweight, Bisping expects Manel Kape to emerge as champion, even if Alexandre Pantoja receives a rematch following his injury. At bantamweight, Bisping believes Merab Dvalishvili will reclaim the belt. He declined to predict the featherweight title due to his commentary duties for Alexander…
Author: Andrew Rogers
Diego Lopes believes he has corrected key mistakes ahead of his second UFC title challenge against Alexander Volkanovski. Lopes lost a five-round decision to Volkanovski at UFC 314 last year in Miami but will get a rematch later this month at UFC 325 on the champion’s home soil in Sydney. Despite rebounding with a highlight-reel knockout of Jean Silva, Lopes says confidence issues and Volkanovski’s discipline prevented him from using his grappling in their first fight. He did not attempt a single takedown, instead watching Volkanovski repeatedly reset on advice from his corner. Lopes said hearing the Australian’s coaches reinforce…
Anthony Joshua may have a surprise comeback opponent if he chooses to return to boxing later this year. The former unified heavyweight champion is currently recovering from a serious car crash and has stepped away from the sport amid speculation about retirement. Despite claims from his uncle that Joshua may be finished, attention has turned to a possible crossover bout with kickboxing star Rico Verhoeven. According to Ariel Helwani, the idea originated during discussions involving boxing powerbroker Turki Alalshikh and actor Jason Statham. Statham reportedly suggested the matchup after following earlier talks about Verhoeven fighting Francis Ngannou. Although Verhoeven has…
The comments refer not only to a potential fight with Michael Chandler, whom Conor McGregor is widely expected to face at the proposed UFC White House event, but also to a far more unexpected name, Mike Tyson. The legendary heavyweight is currently scheduled to box Floyd Mayweather in an exhibition later this year, a bout that could be placed at risk if any alternative high-profile matchup were pursued. McGregor and Tyson share a close personal relationship, which has only intensified speculation. The Irishman recently welcomed Tyson to his Dublin pub during the American’s visit to Ireland for a speaking engagement,…
American Airlines is increasing flight options from Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG) to Chicago O’Hare. Starting soon, the airline will operate three new daily routes, expanding connectivity for travelers across the U.S. The new flights make it easier for passengers to reach more than 180 destinations. Both leisure travelers and business professionals stand to benefit from the additional options, as the routes reduce layovers and provide more convenient scheduling. City officials and travel experts say the expansion will have a positive impact on the local economy. Increased passenger traffic can support hotels, restaurants, and other businesses in Cincinnati and nearby…
Manny Pacquiao transformed his life with a bold decision in 2001. After early world title success and setbacks, Pacquiao accepted a late replacement fight for just $40,000. He stepped in to face IBF champion Lehlo Ledwaba on a Las Vegas card headlined by Oscar De La Hoya. Fighting at the MGM Grand on HBO, Pacquiao dominated and stopped Ledwaba in six rounds, shocking boxing fans. The victory launched his US career and global fame. Now 47, Pacquiao remains active and is eyeing major bouts in 2026, driven by legacy, prizefighting, and inspiration from his son Jimuel.
Jack Della Maddalena has outlined his route back to UFC gold after losing his title.He was dominated over five rounds by Islam Makhachev at UFC 322 last November.Following the defeat, Della Maddalena accepted a callout from rising contender Carlos Prates.Prates gained popularity with four straight knockout wins after joining the UFC in 2024.His momentum briefly stalled after a loss to Ian Machado Garry last April.Prates rebounded by knocking out Leon Edwards on the UFC 322 undercard.Della Maddalena welcomed the matchup and predicted a stoppage victory over five rounds.A win could boost his title hopes, though competition remains fierce at welterweight.Michael…
Ilia Topuria has issued a statement denying false media claims during his UFC hiatus.The lightweight champion stepped away from competition due to personal matters following his separation from his ex-wife.An interim UFC lightweight title was created while Topuria remains inactive.Topuria criticised reports claiming he was summoned to court over a domestic violence case.He stated no such summons exists and called the report false and misleading.Topuria explained the court matter concerns administrative issues regarding his daughter’s travel.He said he has been unable to see his daughter for four months.Topuria accused some media of spreading unverified and sensationalist information.He reiterated that abuse…
Rose Namajunas has revealed a key addition to her training camp ahead of UFC 324.The former strawweight champion is pushing for flyweight gold and a future clash with Valentina Shevchenko. Namajunas now faces Natalia Silva after Alexa Grasso withdrew through injury.Silva is unbeaten in seven UFC fights and brings a dangerous taekwondo-based striking style. To prepare, Namajunas has brought in Olympic bronze medallist Kristina Teachout.Teachout competed at the Paris 2024 Olympics and is helping sharpen Namajunas’s timing and kicking reactions. Namajunas said the goal is skill development rather than imitation.She believes cross-discipline training is vital for growth as a martial…
Michael Morales left fans puzzled after sharing footage from his New Year’s Eve celebrations.The UFC welterweight contender is known for devastating knockouts, not viral costumes. Morales surged into title contention after stopping Sean Brady at UFC 322.He is now waiting for the division to settle before a potential title shot. To mark the end of the year, Morales wore a black dress while celebrating in Ecuador.The outfit relates to the traditional Ecuadorian “Año Viejo” celebration. During the festival, men dress as widows mourning the old year.They dance, joke with drivers and collect coins to fund local parties. While common locally,…