Leapfrog? UFC Denver’s Tracy Cortez hopes to jump into ‘two Mexican women’ title tilt vs. Alexa Grasso at Noche UFC

Tracy Cortez is set to compete in the biggest fight of her career at UFC Denver this weekend (Sat., July 13, 2024). UFC’s return to its origin state has crumbled in its build. Originally on tap for the main event was a Flyweight contender bout between former Strawweight champion, Rose Namajunas, and Maycee Barber. Unfortunately …

Ronda Rousey: ‘Things would’ve happened completely differently’ if didn’t start getting concussions at age 6

Ronda Rousey has been very open about her concussion history as she’s embarked on a career as an author. The former Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) and World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE) champion has put her competitive days behind her seemingly for good. Of course, you can never say never in combat sports or professional wrestling, but …

‘You’re not one of us:’ Dustin Poirier blasts ‘Muscle Milk Mike’ Chandler after recent verbal jab

Dustin Poirier was not amused by Michael Chandler’s recent Lightweight title tease. It has been quite some time since Chandler’s last appearance in the Octagon. The renowned three-time Bellator champion joined the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) with the intention of enjoying himself without a prolonged stay. In his initial five matches, he accomplished precisely that, …

Is Dustin Poirier retiring? ‘Diamond’ still ‘on the fence’ about UFC career, eyes Nate Diaz boxing match

Dustin Poirier may be done with his UFC career. Or, matchmakers may call him with an offer he can’t refuse, prompting the former interim lightweight champion to lace up the gloves and get back into action. Still just 35, “The Diamond” doesn’t have to rush to a decision and can afford to let things play …

VIDEO: Sound & Pound — Is Tracy Cortez ready for the flyweight elite?

MMA Mania brings you Sound & Pound, an original podcast featuring previews, recaps, lists, prospects, and a Q&A. Oh, and a cool movie club. All brought to you by yours truly, Alex Behunin and Drake Riggs. This week, we’ll recap answer fan questions, preview UFC Denver, and review Maxxine (2024) and Jaws (1975), and discuss …

Lyin’ Heart? Anthony Smith has ‘very cool relationship’ with UFC champ Alex Pereira — ‘It’s not awkward in person’

As promised, Anthony Smith cut a promo on Alex Pereira in the wake of UFC 303 — though it’s probably not the one fight fans were expecting. That’s because “Lionheart” was defeated by Roman Dolidze back on June 29 in Las Vegas, shortly before “Poatan” defended his light heavyweight title by stopping Jiri Prochazka in …

PFL Africa set for 2025 launch, Francis Ngannou to serve as Chairman

PFL Africa has been announced as part of Professional Fighters League’s (PFL) expanding international portfolio. The new league is scheduled to commence in mid-2025, with heavyweight sensation Francis Ngannou assuming the role of Chairman. PFL CEO Peter Murray expressed the Professional Fighters League’s enthusiasm in introducing PFL Africa, the third international fight franchise, as they …

What wrestling? Merab plans to ‘prove his striking’ against UFC champ Sean O’Malley — but everyone thinks he’s ‘full of sh*t’

If Merab Dvalishvili really plans to abandon his wrestling and strike with reigning bantamweight titleholder Sean O’Malley, then I’ll probably take out a second mortgage on my house and bet every last dime on “Suga.” No disrespect to “The Machine,” but the champion is a prolific finisher with double-digit knockout wins. That includes his stunning, …

‘Embarrassing’ loss to Jake Paul ‘taught Nate Diaz a lesson’ ahead of ‘super aggressive’ win over Jorge Masvidal

Jorge Masvidal was a sizable betting favorite in his boxing rematch against Nate Diaz. Those early odds did not come as much of a surprise to anyone in the combat sports community, considering Masvidal stopped Diaz at UFC 244. But it may have been Jake Paul’s commanding performance over Diaz when the former UFC welterweight …