UFC's Billy Quarantillo Explains Layoff and Weight Class Change LAS VEGAS – Billy Quarantillo will face a nearly 20-month gap between fights, a period he attributes to both a knee surgery and a strategic shift to the lightweight division. The 37-year-old fighter, who competes for the UFC, is set to return at the co-main event of UFC Fight Night 284 at the Meta APEX, where he will challenge Diego Ferreira. His decision to move from featherweight to lightweight came after a series of setbacks, including recent losses and the physical toll of weight-cutting. Quarantillo (18-7 MMA, 6-5 UFC) revealed that his layoff began with a knee surgery last year, which required extensive recovery. During this time, he prioritized rehabilitation over competition. However, the absence extended beyond medical reasons. He explained that he had been considering a weight class change for some time, citing his physical evolution and frustration with the demands of making weight. “I had knee surgery last year, so obviously, that takes a lot of time away, and then just focusing on rehab, doing everything right,” Quarantillo said during a media day interview. “Then I decided to move up a weight class because I’m getting older, but bigger, stronger. It’s been great so far keeping the size on, but obviously, a long layoff.” The decision to transition to lightweight was influenced by recent performances. In his last two fights, he suffered losses to Youssef Zalal and Cub Swanson. Both outcomes left him physically and emotionally drained. He described the struggle to meet weight requirements as a significant burden, one that compromised his ability to compete at his best. “I had to fight not only my human opponent but also an inanimate one: the scale,” he said. “Moving forward, I’m focused more on fighting the person across the cage.#ufc #meta_apex #ufc_fight_night_284 #diego_ferreira #billy_quarantillo
Former Double Champion Teases Potential UFC Signing and Paris Main Event Debut Salahdine Parnasse, the 28-year-old French lightweight star, has hinted at a possible move to the UFC following his standout performance at MVP MMA’s inaugural event in May. The fight, which drew a peak viewership of 17 million, saw Parnasse finish his opponent in the first round, sparking renewed interest from major promotions. Despite receiving offers from the UFC, PFL, and MVP MMA after the event, Parnasse had previously declined a UFC contract in 2024, opting to continue in KSW for higher financial incentives. Now, with his career at a pivotal stage, the Frenchman is reportedly considering a return to the UFC, which could position him for a potential main event spot at the organization’s upcoming return to Paris in September. The UFC’s Paris event, scheduled for September 2026, has already seen several fights announced, including a matchup between Michael “Venom” Page and Nursulton Ruziboev. However, the promotion is expected to finalize its main event lineup soon to boost ticket sales. Renowned journalist Ariel Helwani recently posed a question to fans on X, asking whether they would support a Parnasse vs. Dan Hooker main event. Hooker, currently ranked in the top 15 of the lightweight division, has faced setbacks after two consecutive losses to Arman Tsarukyan and Benoit Saint-Denis. Despite this, his reputation and pedigree make him a likely opponent for Parnasse, should the Frenchman join the UFC. Parnasse’s potential inclusion in the Paris card has been further emphasized by his social media activity. In response to Helwani’s post, the fighter shared a Shrek meme, subtly signaling his intent to compete on the card.#ufc #paris #ariel_helwani #salahdine_parnasse #mvp_mma
UFC Abu Dhabi Prelim Results The preliminary card at UFC Abu Dhabi on Saturday delivered a mix of impressive finishes and competitive battles, with all three newcomers securing victories. Valter Walker closed the event with a submission finish, while Muhammad Saidov and Sam Patterson each claimed second-round stoppage wins. The results highlighted the intensity of the early rounds and the skill of the fighters involved. Valter Walker, a Brazilian heavyweight, secured a first-round submission victory over Thomas Petersen using a calf slicer at 1:32 of the first round. Despite failing to land a fifth consecutive heel hook finish, Walker adapted his strategy, trapping Petersen’s calf and forcing a tapout. The win extended Walker’s streak of first-round submissions, bringing him to five in a row. Known as “The Clean Monster,” Walker is considered a rising star in the heavyweight division, with his next challenge likely to be a high-profile matchup. Muhammad Saidov, a light heavyweight, made a strong debut in Abu Dhabi by defeating Dustin Jacoby with a second-round TKO. Saidov, a short-notice replacement, showcased his striking prowess from the opening moments, landing effective strikes and maintaining pressure throughout the fight. The decisive moment came in the second round when Saidov landed a high kick to Jacoby’s head, initiating a flurry of strikes that led to the finish. With a professional record of 10-0, Saidov’s performance solidified his status as a contender in the division. Training alongside fighters like Shara Magomedov and Valter Walker, Saidov is viewed as a potential dark horse in the light heavyweight ranks. Sam Patterson, a welterweight, returned to his finishing ways with a second-round TKO over veteran Santiago Ponzinibbio.#ufc #sam_patterson #ufc_abu_dhabi #valter_walker #muhammad_saidov
UFC 333 heading to Abu Dhabi as MMA giants confirm October return to Etihad Arena The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) has confirmed that its 333rd event will take place in Abu Dhabi in October 2026, marking the promotion’s 24th major event at the Etihad Arena. The announcement was made during Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 282, which served as a platform to unveil details of the highly anticipated numbered event. The UFC, which has held 23 shows in the UAE capital since 2010, plans to return to Etihad Arena on October 24, 2026, as part of its ongoing partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), which continues through 2028. The UFC typically reserves its most prestigious matchups for numbered events, featuring top-tier fighters and title bouts. UFC 333 is expected to follow this tradition, with the organization emphasizing its commitment to delivering high-stakes action for fans. The event will be preceded by Abu Dhabi Showdown Week on Yas Island, a week-long celebration of MMA culture that includes themed experiences and activities for fans. Registration for the event and exclusive hotel packages is encouraged through VisitAbuDhabi.ae, while VIP packages will be available via UFCVIP.com. The partnership between the UFC and Abu Dhabi has grown significantly since 2010, with the promotion hosting a series of high-profile events that have solidified the UAE’s reputation as a global MMA hub. One notable example was the heavyweight title showdown between Tom Aspinall and Ciryl Gane in October 2025, which ended in a no-contest after Gane made contact with Aspinall’s eye. Despite the controversial outcome, the matchup highlighted the caliber of fights the UFC typically stages in the UAE.#ufc #abu_dhabi #tom_aspinall #etihad_arena #dct_abu_dhabi
UFC Oklahoma Main Event Features Dricus du Plessis vs. Kamaru Usman The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) returns to Oklahoma for a highly anticipated event on Saturday, July 18, 2026, live on Paramount+ from the Paycom Center in Oklahoma City. The main attraction will be a middleweight showdown between former UFC middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and former welterweight king Kamaru Usman. This matchup, while not among the organization’s most high-profile recent events, carries significant weight for both fighters. Du Plessis, who previously held the 185-pound title, will make his return to the octagon after losing the championship to Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 319. The fight marks his first opportunity to reclaim his former status in the division. Meanwhile, Usman, a veteran known for his dominance in the welterweight class, will debut at middleweight after stepping in on short notice to face Chimaev at 185 pounds during UFC 294. Despite losing via majority decision in that bout, Usman’s performance was praised for its resilience, though the fight occurred nearly three years prior. This event represents a pivotal moment for both fighters. For Usman, the move to middleweight signifies a strategic shift, as he aims to test his skills against a different caliber of opponent. His previous experience at 185 pounds, while impressive, may not fully translate to the challenges of the middleweight division. Du Plessis, on the other hand, seeks to rebuild his reputation after the loss to Chimaev. The fight will serve as a critical opportunity for him to prove his worth and potentially establish himself as a top contender in the middleweight ranks.#ufc #paycom_center #oklahoma_city #kamaru_usman #dricus_du_plessis
Ilia Topuria vs Justin Gaethje Title Fight at UFC Freedom 250: All to Know The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host its most anticipated event of 2026 as undefeated lightweight contender Ilia Topuria faces interim champion Justin Gaethje in a highly anticipated title unification bout at UFC Freedom 250. The main event, scheduled for June 14, will take place outdoors on the lawns of the White House in Washington, DC, with former President Donald Trump expected to attend alongside a star-studded guest list. The fight, billed as the biggest mixed martial arts event of the year, marks a historic moment for the sport and will be timed to coincide with Trump’s 80th birthday. The event is part of the Freedom 250 celebrations organized by the Trump administration, which runs parallel to the bipartisan America250 series of events commemorating the United States’ 250th anniversary. The Freedom 250 initiative has drawn controversy, particularly after a significant number of musicians withdrew from a planned concert series due to concerns over its political affiliations and confusion with the America250 events. Despite these challenges, the UFC’s involvement in the White House setting underscores the growing cultural significance of the sport. Topuria, a Georgian fighter with an undefeated 17-0 record in the UFC, vacated his lightweight title in late 2025 amid personal reasons, despite being the reigning champion. His absence from the division triggered an interim title fight between Gaethje and Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324, which Gaethje won by unanimous decision. The American’s victory secured his second interim lightweight championship and set the stage for the unification bout against Topuria.#donald_trump #white_house #ufc #justin_gaethje #ilia_topuria
Maxx Crosby Plans to Attend America 250 UFC Fight at the White House, Discusses American Dream, Olympics, and Team USA Flag Football Maxx Crosby, the star defensive end for the Las Vegas Raiders, has announced his intention to attend the highly anticipated UFC fight scheduled at the White House on June 14 to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary. The event, set to take place on the South Lawn, marks a unique intersection of sports and national celebration, with Crosby expressing his excitement about the opportunity to participate in such a historic moment. “I’ve never been to the White House,” Crosby said in an interview with Fox News Digital. “I’m excited, I like history. It’s incredible that we all have an opportunity to celebrate our country and just be part of a historic event… we live in the greatest country in the world and it should be celebrated.” For Crosby, the event represents a chance to reflect on the freedoms and opportunities he values as an American. “You have an opportunity every day to chase your passion,” he said. “Everyone comes from different backgrounds, but in this country you have a choice every day to chase what you love and what you aspire to do. People don’t say the American Dream for no reason. It’s the greatest country because it’s opportunity. It’s a land of opportunity.” His remarks underscored the significance of the event as a symbol of the nation’s enduring ideals. Crosby also revealed his rooting interest for the fight, expressing strong support for Justin Gaethje, a fighter he described as “one of the greatest to ever do it” and a “great friend.” “I’ll definitely be biased for him,” he said. “I want to see him go to the White House and do his thing for sure.” The fight’s origin story, however, is as unconventional as the event itself.#maxx_crosby #white_house #ufc #dana_white #tom_brady
No Heavyweights Allowed: Pentagon Sets Fitness Standards for Military Attendees at White House UFC Event The U.S. Department of Defense has imposed strict fitness requirements for military personnel seeking tickets to the upcoming Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event scheduled for June 14 on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, D.C. According to a Pentagon memo reviewed by NBC News, service members must meet specific body composition and physical fitness criteria to attend the high-profile event, which is expected to draw thousands of spectators. The memo, issued to military branches this week, outlines that attendees must have a waist-to-height ratio of less than 0.55 and satisfy all branch-specific physical fitness test requirements. The UFC event, which coincides with President Donald Trump’s 80th birthday, is being organized as a major celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. Trump has been actively involved in selecting the event’s attendees, with limited tickets available to a select group of individuals deemed “lucky, cunning, or rich enough” to secure a seat. The White House has emphasized that the event will be a “high visibility” occasion, with the Pentagon noting that the audience’s image is a priority. This approach contrasts with previous events, such as the Army 250 parade last summer, where military participation was based on rank and deployment status. Military personnel from commands worldwide are eligible to request tickets, but the Pentagon will not cover travel expenses for attendees. The memo also clarifies that tickets will be distributed to “genuine UFC fans” rather than solely to high-ranking officials or distinguished visitors. This shift underscores the organizers’ focus on creating an audience that aligns with the event’s entertainment-driven nature.#pentagon #donald_trump #white_house #ufc #army_250_parade
UFC BJJ 8 Set for May 21 in Las Vegas with Musumeci vs Dantzler Championship Clash The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to host its eighth Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) event, UFC BJJ 8, on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas. The event will feature a stacked lineup of elite grapplers competing in submission-only matches, with the main attraction being the bantamweight championship showdown between reigning champion Mikey Musumeci and rising contender Kevin Dantzler. The night will also include a women’s bantamweight title fight between reigning champion Cassia Moura and dangerous challenger Sabrina Gondim, along with six additional bouts across various weight classes. The event will begin at 5 p.m. Pacific Time, with all matches broadcast live and free on the UFC BJJ YouTube channel. Fans can also access additional coverage through UFC Fight Pass. The competition will follow a 10-point-must scoring system, with each bout contested in three 5-minute rounds. A notable tradition of the event is the walkout order, where the blue corner athlete always enters the mat first. The main event, a three-round championship clash, pits Musumeci against Dantzler. Musumeci, known for his technical precision and aggressive pace, aims to defend his title against Dantzler, a submission specialist with a strong guard game. The matchup is expected to be a tactical battle, with both fighters bringing contrasting styles to the mat. The co-main event will see Moura, the women’s bantamweight champion, face Gondim, a relentless competitor with a reputation for finishing fights. Both athletes are known for their aggressive approaches and ability to secure submissions, making this title fight a high-stakes, action-packed showdown.#ufc #las_vegas #mikey_musumeci #cassia_moura #kevin_dantzler
Former UFC Star 'Dirty Bird' Charged with Child Abuse After Alleged Assault on Teen Daughter A former UFC fighter in New Mexico is facing felony child abuse charges after police reported he punched and headbutted his 17-year-old daughter during an argument over household chores. Tim Means, 42, was arrested on April 21 and charged with a felony count of child abuse. He was booked into the Metropolitan Detention Center on Wednesday and released on Friday, according to court records. Deputies from the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office responded to a home on Camino De Avila in Tijeras after a report of a physical altercation. A criminal complaint obtained by The Albuquerque Journal states that Means’s daughter told police the incident occurred during a dispute over chores. She claimed her father allegedly headbutted her in the nose, prompting her to push him away. The two ended up in the kitchen, where Means reportedly grabbed the teen by her neck in a “strangulating manner” and held her against the counter. The daughter described how Means then grabbed a potato and threw it at her face. She said she began pushing and punching him to escape, but he eventually punched her on the right side of her face with a closed fist. The complaint notes visible handprints and red marks on her neck, indicating she was strangled, as well as blood on and in her nose from the headbutt and multiple red marks on her face and cheek. Means, known in the UFC as “Dirty Bird,” has fought professionally since 2004 but has faced recent setbacks. He lost five of his most recent fights and has not competed since October 2024. The fighter was previously released by the UFC in 2013 after repeated weight-cutting failures but returned the following year to continue competing in the welterweight division.#ufc #tim_means #bernalillo_county_sheriff_s_office #camino_de_avila #tijeras
UFC Seattle Fight Night Preview: Adesanya vs. Pyfer Headlines Action-Packed Card The UFC returns to Seattle for the fifth time as the Fight Night event at Climate Pledge Arena promises a stacked card featuring a high-stakes middleweight showdown between former champion Israel Adesanya and rising contender Joe Pyfer. The main event marks a pivotal moment for both fighters, with Adesanya seeking to reclaim his form after a three-fight losing streak and Pyfer aiming to elevate his status in the division. The undercard includes a mix of intriguing matchups, local talent, and the final fight for TUF: Live winner Michael Chiesa. Adesanya, a former UFC middleweight titleholder, enters the fight on a three-fight slide, having lost to top contenders Nassourdine Imavov and Paulo Costa, as well as a main event clash with Imavov. At 36, the City Kickboxing standout faces questions about his ability to maintain peak performance, though his history of dominance in the division remains a factor. Pyfer, a standout from Dana White’s Contender Series, has surged with a three-fight winning streak, including a submission victory over Abus Magomedov. His well-rounded skillset and recent sharp performances position him as a serious threat to Adesanya’s legacy. The main card also features a flyweight rematch between Alexa Grasso and Maycee Barber, two of the division’s top contenders. Grasso, who claimed the flyweight title in 2025, has struggled in recent outings after a draw with Barber and losses to Valentina Shevchenko and Natalia Silva. Barber, meanwhile, has remained undefeated since their initial meeting, riding a seven-fight winning streak and eager to capitalize on her opportunity to challenge for the title.#ufc #climate_pledge_arena #israel_adesanya #joe_pyfer #michael_chiesa
UFC London’s Must-Watch Prospect to Watch This Weekend The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) returns to the United Kingdom this weekend for UFC London, set to take place at the O2 Arena in London, England. The event will be streamed on Paramount+ and feature a main event showdown between No. 1-ranked Featherweight Movsar Evloev and No. 3-seeded Lerone Murphy. Beyond the main card, the lineup includes several rising talents, but one fighter stands out as a key prospect to watch. Kurtis Campbell, a 23-year-old from Liverpool, has emerged as a standout name in the UFC’s developmental ranks. After winning three amateur titles across different weight classes, Campbell built an undefeated regional record before earning a spot on Season 9 of Contender Series. His breakout moment came with a dominant knockout of Demba Seck in under two minutes, securing his UFC contract and sparking significant buzz around his potential. Campbell’s unapologetic style has become a defining trait. In a recent interview, he openly admitted his love for violence, stating, “My guilty pleasure is violence. The glasses, the hair, the pink shorts—it doesn’t matter. I love hitting people.” This confidence stems from his early experiences of being bullied for his appearance, including his signature glasses. His parents enrolled him in Muay Thai, a decision that transformed him into a relentless striker who thrives in chaotic exchanges. Nicknamed “The Pink Panther,” Campbell’s fighting style is characterized by constant pressure and sharp kicks, which have become his most dangerous tools. However, questions remain about his ability to adapt to the UFC’s higher level of competition. While his striking skills are well-developed, his takedown defense and grappling have yet to face significant challenges.#london #ufc #paramount #kurtis_campbell #o2_arena
UFC Prediction Market: Speculation on Kevin Vallejos's Next Opponent A prediction market on Polymarket is offering traders the chance to speculate on which fighter Kevin Vallejos will face next in the UFC. The market, titled "UFC: Who will Kevin Vallejos fight next?" features three possible outcomes, with current odds reflecting traders' collective belief in each scenario. The leading contender is Arnold Allen at 25%, followed by Steve Garcia at 24%. Prices for each outcome fluctuate in real time as traders buy and sell shares, with a share priced at 25¢ implying a 25% chance of that result being correct. The market's resolution depends on official UFC announcements regarding Vallejos's next opponent. Only confirmed fights with scheduled dates will count, while speculation or unofficial sources will not influence the outcome. If no qualifying announcement is made by March 7, 2027, the market will default to "Other." The UFC's official statements will serve as the primary source for determining the correct result. Traders can participate by selecting an outcome, choosing to "Yes" or "No" bet on it, and entering a trade amount. If the chosen outcome is correct at resolution, "Yes" shares pay out $1 each, while incorrect bets yield $0. Shares can also be sold before the market closes to lock in profits or cut losses. The market is set to resolve on or around March 8, 2027, with trading remaining open until then. The market's odds are considered reliable due to the involvement of real traders wagering real money, though early-stage markets like this one are still building their participant base. Polymarket has a strong track record of accuracy, with a one-month accuracy score of 94%, according to its own data. Users can track trading activity and volume as the market gains traction.#ufc #polymarket #kevin_vallejos #arnold_allen #steve_garcia
UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs Vallejos Results | Main Card Winners, Highlights & Interviews The UFC returned to the Apex in Las Vegas on March 14 for a featherweight showdown between No. 11-ranked Josh Emmett and No. 14-ranked Kevin Vallejos. The event featured a mix of high-stakes fights across multiple weight classes, with results and highlights emerging from both the prelims and main card. The main card began at 8 p.m. ET, following prelims at 5 p.m. ET, and was streamed live on Paramount+. In the co-main event, Gillian Robertson secured a unanimous decision victory over Amanda Lemos. The Brazilian contender dominated the first five minutes, keeping the fight standing and landing precise strikes, but Robertson’s ability to control Lemos on the mat proved decisive. The 15-minute clash ended with Robertson winning 29-28 on all three scorecards, extending her winning streak to five. The victory bolstered her case for a title shot, though it may not come immediately. Another standout performance came from Jose Miguel Delgado, who edged out Andre Fili in a split decision. The featherweight bout saw Fili take control in the first round with a counter right, but Delgado adjusted his strategy in the second and third rounds, increasing his pressure and landing key strikes. The judges split the decision in Delgado’s favor (29-28, 28-29, 29-28), marking his first UFC victory and a significant step toward rankings in the crowded 145-pound division. The main card also included a dramatic stoppage when Marwan Rahiki defeated Harry Hardwick by TKO (injury) at 5:00 of the second round. The two fighters exchanged heavy blows throughout the fight, landing between 70 and 80 significant strikes each. Hardwick, however, suffered a broken jaw and was unable to continue, forcing the referee to stop the bout.#ufc #las_vegas #paramount #apex #josh_emmett
Conor McGregor names opponent he would fight despite UFC White House Card exclusion Former two-division champion Conor McGregor is still waiting for his long-awaited return to the octagon after the Ultimate Fighting Championship confirmed the historic White House fight card. Despite being strongly linked to headline the event against Michael Chandler on June 14, McGregor’s name was not included in the final lineup. The announcement left fans surprised, as the matchup had been widely discussed for months. Instead, the main event will see Ilia Topuria defend the UFC lightweight title against interim champion Justin Gaethje. The card also features a heavyweight clash between Alex Pereira and Ciryl Gane for the interim title, while Chandler secured a spot on the undercard against Mauricio Ruffy. McGregor, however, remains sidelined, with no confirmed date for his return. McGregor has made it clear he is eager to fight again, suggesting the UFC is considering the International Fight Week card on July 11 as a potential date for his first bout in nearly five years. The 36-year-old reacted to UFC 326, where Charles Oliveira defeated Max Holloway to claim the BMF title, by expressing openness to facing Oliveira in the future. He tweeted, “If they want I’ll sp**k charlie,” indicating his willingness to take on the Brazilian star if the opportunity arises. UFC CEO Dana White confirmed discussions with McGregor are ongoing, with the promotion exploring options for the Irish superstar to headline another major event once a deal is finalized. McGregor recently appeared on the Smash Cast podcast hosted by Chael Sonnen, where he voiced frustration over the delay in confirming his return.#ufc #conor_mcgregor #michael_chandler #ilia_topuria #justin_gaethje
Conor McGregor confirms date for comeback ahead of UFC White House announcement Conor McGregor has announced he will not compete on the UFC's White House card, which was initially expected to feature him against Michael Chandler. The Irish fighter confirmed his return to the octagon will take place on July 11, shifting his focus away from the June 14 event at the White House. UFC CEO Dana White is set to unveil the details of the White House card on Saturday night, with McGregor's name absent from the lineup. McGregor spoke at length about his decision, stating he had been "up for the White House" but ultimately chose to prioritize his comeback. "I was aware it was the White House," he said in an interview with Smash Cast. "The administration was strong for me to be there. It was McGregor versus Chandler. The story was built in. Chandler is a standup guy, electric in the cage. He comes to bring it. I'm the Mac. I'll fly through the air in an opponent like Chandler. It would have been dynamite as a fight." Despite the initial plans, McGregor revealed that the UFC had reconsidered the matchup. "They said maybe we're going to go with you for International Fight Week," he explained. "I do like Chandler. I've been preparing for him for the last two years. I feel a bit weird; he deserves to go after the waiting and it would be a great fight. It gets me back in there, but you know they feared off it. I'm not going to be too picky. I have to get back. I'm eager to get back." McGregor also confirmed he will return to the welterweight division, stating, "I'm going to do 170. As you know, I'm a big boy. A lot bigger than before. They said, 'We're going to offer you this opponent.' Yes, no problem. I accept day after day after day. That's a great matchup is all you ever hear about out of me, and no contract came.#ufc #jon_jones #dana_white #conor_mcgregor #white_house_card
Jon Jones and Conor McGregor Excluded from UFC's White House Card LAS VEGAS — The UFC’s highly anticipated White House event, officially titled UFC Freedom Fights 250, was announced without two high-profile fighters who had previously expressed interest in competing: Jon Jones and Conor McGregor. Both athletes had lobbied to be included, but their names were absent from the finalized card. McGregor had hoped to face Michael Chandler, while Jones aimed to challenge two-division champion Alex Pereira. Although Chandler and Pereira are scheduled to compete, they face different opponents. Chandler will take on Mauricio Ruffy, and Pereira will compete in an interim heavyweight title fight against Ciryl Gane. UFC CEO Dana White addressed the absence of both fighters during a post-UFC 326 media session. White emphasized that Jones was never a consideration for the event, despite prior speculation. He recounted a conversation with Jones’ lawyer, stating, “I sent a text saying, ‘Never going to happen ever.’” White also noted that Jones, who last fought in November 2024 against Stipe Miocic, is currently retired due to health issues. “He’s got arthritis in his hips,” White said. “Doctors told him he needs a hip replacement. Never, ever, ever was Jon Jones even remotely in my mind to fight at the White House.” McGregor’s situation was slightly different. While White confirmed ongoing discussions about a potential return for the Irish star, he clarified that the White House card did not align with McGregor’s plans. “We are definitely talking to Conor,” White said. However, no specific timeline or event was mentioned for McGregor’s comeback. The 34-year-old has not competed since 2024, marking a five-year hiatus from the Octagon.#ufc #jon_jones #dana_white #conor_mcgregor #white_house_card
Daniel Cormier brands Jon Jones fat in heated face-off during reality TV taping: ‘You cheated’ Daniel Cormier and Jon Jones’ long-standing rivalry has resurfaced during a new reality TV show, with the pair exchanging sharp words and accusations during a taping session. The two former UFC heavyweight champions, who have clashed repeatedly in the sport, are now competing as coaches on the show, reigniting tensions that date back to their 2014 feud. Their latest confrontation, captured in a recent episode, highlights the unresolved animosity between the fighters. The rivalry began in 2014 when Cormier and Jones faced off in a highly controversial title fight, with Jones winning by split decision. However, Cormier later claimed the outcome was unfair, citing a failed drug test that led to the second fight between them being overturned. During the latest taping, Cormier reiterated his stance, arguing that Jones’ second victory over him was invalid due to the failed test. “He cheated the second time so he didn’t win,” Cormier said, challenging Jones’ claim of a 3-0 record against him. Jones, in turn, dismissed Cormier’s argument, insisting that his own record against the former champion remains 1-0. The tension escalated further when Jones mocked Cormier’s current physical condition, joking about his weight. Cormier responded by accusing Jones of trying to hide his gut after bulking up for heavyweight competition. “He tries to pull his shirt and s—” Cormier said, adding that if they were to fight during the show, he would “probably drown” Jones in the pool due to the fight being at a more natural weight. The exchange underscored the deep-seated bitterness between the fighters, with Cormier suggesting a potential rematch in a grappling or RAF Wrestling contest rather than a full MMA fight.#ufc #jon_jones #daniel_cormier #reality_tv_show #heavyweight_champions
Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier Reunite on ALF Reality 3 Amid Feud Tensions Legendary UFC rivals Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier reignited their long-standing feud during a recent episode of ALF Reality 3, a Russian MMA television show filmed in Thailand. The two former two-division UFC champions, who had previously clashed in the Octagon, returned as coaches on the show, sparking a surreal faceoff that quickly went viral. Despite their history of intense competition, the pair shared moments of camaraderie, including lighthearted exchanges, as seen in newly released footage from the set. While the show’s filming concluded with a cordial tone, tensions resurfaced in the weeks that followed. Jones criticized Cormier, calling him a “d——” and accusing him of mistreating fellow coaches. Cormier, in turn, proposed a wrestling match against Jones, though Jones recently admitted that arthritis will likely prevent him from competing in combat sports for the foreseeable future. Despite this, Jones remains determined to return to the UFC, with negotiations ongoing for a potential appearance on the upcoming UFC White House card this summer. The two fighters, who last faced off in the Octagon during their historic trilogy, have not competed since Jones successfully defended his heavyweight title against Stipe Miocic at UFC 309. Cormier, meanwhile, retired from MMA after a trilogy loss to Miocic in 2020. While a return to the Octagon between the two is unlikely, their dynamic remains charged, with Jones expressing no intention to reconcile with Cormier. Despite their history of hostility, the pair’s interactions on the show revealed a complex relationship. While Jones and Cormier have traded sharp words, they also found moments of humor, suggesting that their rivalry, though fierce, is not entirely devoid of mutual respect.#thailand #ufc #jon_jones #daniel_cormier #alf_reality_3
Jon Jones and Daniel Cormier's long-standing rivalry resurfaces as the two UFC legends clash during their coaching stint on Russia’s version of Ultimate Fighter. The tension between the former rivals, who once competed in the octagon, has reignited after a heated exchange on set, reigniting questions about whether their animosity can be contained in a reality show setting. The incident occurred during a segment where the pair, now serving as coaches for the ALF Global Reality show, engaged in a playful yet pointed back-and-forth. Jones, known for his brash personality, jokingly remarked about Cormier’s current weight, prompting Cormier to retort with a jab at Jones’ physique. The exchange, while lighthearted, underscored the unresolved friction between the two fighters, who had previously clashed both in and out of the cage. The rivalry between Jones and Cormier, which dates back to their days in the UFC, has been a focal point of the sport for years. Their on-set banter, however, was not entirely unexpected, given the history of conflict on reality shows. Earlier in the season, Nate Diaz’s team had faced a violent incident on set, raising concerns about the safety of participants. This context adds a layer of tension to the current exchange, as both fighters are acutely aware of the potential for things to escalate. Jones, ever the provocateur, quipped about the risks of an on-set fight, suggesting that Cormier’s natural weight class would give him an advantage. Cormier, in turn, mocked Jones’ attempts to hide his physique, highlighting the ongoing dynamic between the two. The conversation, while humorous, reflects the deep-seated competitiveness that has defined their relationship for years.#jon_jones #daniel_cormier #ufc #alf_global_reality #ultimate_fighter
