Tag: ufc

UFC’s Israel Adesanya impressed by Oba Femi: ‘He’s the guy’

Posted on by Rosanne Raphael

Former UFC champion and wrestling fan Israel Adesanya is enamored by WWE star Oba Femi.

Ahead of his fight against Joe Pyfer in the main event of this weekend’s UFC event in Seattle, Shawn McDonald of Full Send MMA spoke with Adesanya, reminding him of his Undertaker tribute for his UFC 276 fight against Jared Cannonier.

Before that fight, Adesanya brough out an urn with the WWE legend’s music playing during his walkout as a tribute to Undertaker’s WWE Hall of Fame induction that year. 

McDonald asked Adesanya about his top five WWE entrances to which he listed Rey Mysterio, The Rock, Stone Cold Steve Austin before getting nostalgic about Stacy Keibler and The Godfather. 

That is when Femi came up with Adesanya saying he is a fan of his current work and feels he is the future of WWE. 

“I really like the way he just moves. I like the way he’s carrying WWE right now. He’s the guy. He’s got that swagger. So, shoutout to Oba Femi. It’s not Oba, it’s Oba Femi. That’s the guy right now,” he said.

Femi made his main roster debut at the 2026 Royal Rumble and has dominated on Raw and SmackDown since then. He is gearing up for his first WrestleMania match where he will clash with Brock Lesnar after making a statement earlier this month.

June 2, 2008 Observer Newsletter: Mark Coleman out of Brock Lesnar UFC fight, WWE Q1 business notes, Frank Shamrock feature

Posted on by F4W Staff

We are just one issue away from having the entire full set of 2008 Wrestling Observer Newsletters available for subscribers.

In the June 2, 2008, edition, the lead story was inaugural UFC heavyweight champion Mark Coleman being pulled from a planned fight with Brock Lesnar (Lesnar’s second-ever in UFC) due to a knee injury and one that was never rebooked.

Dave Meltzer also does an extensive feature on former UFC and Strikeforce star Frank Shamrock.

Dave also looks at more detailed info from the first quarter of WWE financials plus news on Ring of Honor’s pay-per-view contract coming up and what that meant for their immediate future.

All that and more awaits.

Click here to read (sub needed)

UFC Fight Night 270 live results: Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy

Posted on by Ryan Frederick

The Octagon returns to England this weekend on Paramount+ with a big main event as UFC Fight Night 270 takes place at The O2 Arena in London.

The main event is a number one contender bout in the featherweight division between a pair of undefeated fighters as Movsar Evloev takes on Lerone Murphy. Evloev comes in with 19 wins in 19 fights, but fights for the first time since a December 2024 win over Aljamain Sterling. Murphy is on an 18-fight unbeaten streak and is coming off a massive knockout win over Aaron Pico in August.

The co-main event is a featherweight bout pitting two rising prospects against each other as Luke Riley battles Michael Aswell. Also on the main card is British star Michael Page battling Sam Patterson in welterweight action; a middleweight bout between ranked contender Roman Dolidze and streaking Christian Leroy Duncan; and a featherweight bout between debuting Kurtis Campbell and Danny Silva.

PRELIMS | 1 PM ET/10 AM PT

> Women’s Strawweights- Shanelle Dyer (6-1, 0-0 UFC) vs. Ravena Oliveira (7-3-1, 0-2 UFC)

Dyer with some early kicks. Oliveira pressing forward but misses a right hand as Dyer lands a leg kick. Oliveira lands a combo. Dyer lands a jab. Oliveira with a right hand. Dyer works the jab and lands a teet kick. Oliveira lands a right hand. Dyer continues to land leg kicks. Oliveira with a stiff jab. Oliveira lands a combo. They clinch up and battle for position against the fence. They trade knees. Dyer controlling more and lands some knees. Dyer lands a right hand on the break. Dyer with a body kick. Oliveira with a jab. Dyer with some quick strikes late and Oliveira lands a right hand. 10-9 Dyer.

Dyer with a quick leg kick. Oliveira rushes forward swingly wildly and she connects before they clinch. Dyer lands a knee and circles out of the clinch as they go to the center. Dyer with some kicks and rocks Oliveira with a right hand. Dyer lands a head kick as Oliveira is wobbled. Dyer lands some big knees and puts Oliveira on the mat. Dyer with some big shots from the top and it is stopped! Impressive debut win from Dyer!

Fight Result- Shanelle Dyer def. Ravena Oliveira by TKO (strikes) at 1:17 of Round 2

> Lightweights- Shem Rock (12-2-1, 0-1 UFC) vs. Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady (15-4, 0-1 UFC)

Rock lands a body kick. Al-Selwady clips him with a left hook as Rock was swinging. Al-Selwady lands a right hand. They trade punches. Rock lands a jab. They trade inside the pocket and Rock lands a head kick. Al-Selwady lands a right hand and Rock briefly goes down but gets right up. Al-Selwady lands a front kick right to the face of Rock. Al-Selwady rushes in with a flurry. Al-Selwady mixing punches and kicks and Rock lands a left hand. Al-Selwady lands a stiff calf kick. Al-Selwady lands and grabs the back, dragging it down, but Rock is able to reverse to the top. He picks Al-Selwady up and slams him down. Al-Selwady pushes Rock up and lands an upkick as Rock lands from the top to end the round. 10-9 Al-Selwady.

Al-Selwady lands a right hand. Al-Selwady with a body kick and lands another right hand. Al-Selwady lands a combination and lands some more as Rock circles away. Al-Selwady continues to clip Rock. Al-Selwady presses in throwing and Rock grabs the body lock and pushes it to the fence. Al-Selwady landing defensive punches as Rock is trying to get the back. Al-Selwady reverses position and lands a knee and left hands. They break apart. Rock lands a front kick to the face of Al-Selwady. They trade leg kicks. Al-Selwady with a right hand. Al-Selwady with a body kick. They tie up and Rock almost gets a takedown but they get right up. Rock lands a combo and a head kick. They both land punches. 10-9 Al-Selwady, 20-18 Al-Selwady.

Al-Selwady lands a right hand. Al-Selwady lands a body kick and Rock looks for a takedown, but Al-Selwady defends. Rock with a high kick. Al-Selwady lands and Rock slips in a head kick. Al-Selwady with a straight right hand. Rock lands a leg kick and Al-Selwady counters with a right hand. Rock lands a right hook and a high kick. Rock with another head kick. Rock with a knee and another high kick. Rock lands a body kick. Al-Selwady lands a right hand. Rock with a spin kick. Both connect as Al-Selwady comes forward. Rock shoots for a takedown but Al-Selwady dumps him off and lands from the top before Rock stands. Rock with a body kick. Al-Selwady with a right hand. They trade at the end. 10-9 Al-Selwady, 30-27 Al-Selwady.

Fight Result- Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady def. Shem Rock by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Heavyweights- Louie Sutherland (10-4, 0-1 UFC) vs. Brando Pericic (5-1, 1-0 UFC)

Pericic with a front kick to the body. Sutherland lands a pair of big right hands and goes for a takedown. Pericic lands a knee as he defends. Pericic has the neck but lets go and they separate. Sutherland lands a right hand. Sutherland gets a takedown but they get right back up. Pericic breaks apart. Pericic with a body kick and a knee. Pericic lands a series of knees and some right hands. Sutherland goes for a takedown but Pericic is landing lots of punches. They roll and Pericic lands big right hands some more and it is all over! Pericic picks up the big win.

Fight Result- Brando Pericic def. Louie Sutherland by TKO (punches) at 1:48 of Round 1

> Middleweights- Mantas Kondratavicius (8-1, 0-0 UFC) vs. Antonio Trocoli (12-6 1 NC, 0-3 UFC)

Trocoli lands a leg kick and Kondratavicius connects with some punches. They clinch up as Trocoli pushes it to the fence. Trocoli lands a knee. He lands another. Kondratavicius reverses position and lands a knee and an elbow. They separate and Kondratavicius connects with a right hand and an uppercut. They both connect as Trocoli lands a right hand and Kondratavicius lands a knee as they clinch. Kondratavicius lands an elbow. They break apart and Kondratavicius lands a combo and Trocoli lands a right hand. 10-9 Kondratavicius.

Kondratavicius lands a right hand and a left hook to the body. They tie up and Kondratavicius drops Trocoli with a big elbow. Kondratavicius gets on top and lands from the back as they stand. Kondratavicius lands a big elbow. Kondratavicius with a pair of knees in the clinch and they separate. They clinch and Kondratavicius lands a knee to the groin of Trocoli and timeout is called. They get back to action and Kondratavicius lands. Trocoli looks for a takedown but Kondratavicius defends and lands some punches and a knee to the body. Kondratavicius lands an elbow. Kondratavicius gets Trocoli to his knees and lands right hands. Both men are gassed out. Kondratavicius gets the mount and lands before taking the back. Kondratavicius is squeezing but doesn’t have the choke in and Trocoli gets out. 10-9 Kondratavicius, 20-18 Kondratavicius.

They trade punches as Trocoli lands a pair of right hands and a flying knee. Trocoli pushes it against the fence. Trocoli working hard for the takedown but Kondratavicius is defending. Trocoli gets Kondratavicius to the mat. They end up back on the feet and Kondratavicius has the back. Trocoli reverses position and lands a pair of knees before the referee separates them. Trocoli lands a body kick and shoots for a takedown. The referee calls timeout as Trocoli landed a groin strike. They get back going and Kondratavicius lands a combo. Trocoli shoots for a takedown but Kondratavicius defends and lands while standing. 10-9 Trocoli, 29-28 Kondratavicius.

Fight Result- Mantas Kondratavicius def. Antonio Trocoli by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-27, 29-27)

> Heavyweights- Mario Pinto (11-0, 2-0 UFC) vs. Felipe Franco (10-1, 0-0 UFC)

Pinto lands a leg kick. Franco with a leg kick as Pinto works the jab. Franco rushes in and lands a big left hand but eats some punches from Pinto. They clinch but break with neither landing. Pinto with a right hand. They tie up and Pinto lands to the body. They separate and both land in close range. They clinch against the fence with both landing short shots and Pinto having the advantage. Pinto lands an elbow. 10-9 Pinto.

They each land the jab. Franco with a short combo. Pinto looks for a takedown as he pushes it against the fence. Pinto lands to the body. Timeout is called due to a groin strike by Franco. They get back going clinched up against the fence. They break apart. Neither doing much on the feet and Pinto looks for another takedown, but Franco defends as they clinch. Pinto lands a pair of knees. They separate and both swing before Pinto pushes it back against the fence. Pinto gets it down for a moment but they stand. Pinto lands an uppercut as they clinch. 10-9 Pinto, 20-18 Pinto.

They trade and Pinto scores a takedown and is in the half-guard. Pinto lands from the top before they work to their feet. Pinto keeps it pressed against the fence and lands to the body. Franco has no answer for the control from Pinto. Pinto lands some hammerfists to the legs. They separate and both land as Pinto lands some solid right hands. 10-9 Pinto, 30-27 Pinto.

Fight Result- Mario Pinto def. Felipe Franco by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Featherweights- Nathaniel Wood (22-6, 10-3 UFC) vs. Losene Keita (16-1, 0-0 UFC)

Wood works the jab to start things off. Keita swings but Wood ducks under looking for a takedown opening, but nothing is there. Wood lands a calf kick. They trade and Wood lands a left hook. Keita lands a right hand. Wood with a leg kick. Wood with an inside leg kick. Both are still searching for an opening. Wood with a jab and Keita lands a combination. Keita lands a right hand. Wood works the jab. They trade. 10-9 Keita.

Wood looks for the jab as Keita lands a body kick. They trade inside the pocket. Keita lands a leg kick. Keita with another leg kick. Wood lands a right hand. Keita with a combo to the body. Wood lands a pair of leg kicks. Keita lands a front kick. Wood with a stiff leg kick and Keita got tripped to the mat but got right up. Keita lands a knee to the body. Wood with an inside leg kick. Keita lands a right hand. Keita with a combo and they trade leg kicks. Keita lands a right hand. Wood with a leg kick. Wood lands another. Keita with a left hand. 10-9 Keita, 20-18 Keita.

They trade with both landing a right hand. Wood with a pair of leg kicks. Wood lands a right hand and Keita works the jab and lands a right hand. Wood with a calf kick. Keita lands a combo and is pressing forward. Wood with a leg kick and the jab. Keita with a left hand. Wood lands an inside leg kick. Keita with a right hand. Wood lands a right hand. Wood with a leg kick. Close fight. 10-9 Wood, 29-28 Keita.

Fight Result- Nathaniel Wood def. Losene Keita by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 29-28)

> Lightweights- Mason Jones (17-2 1 NC, 3-2 1 NC UFC) vs. Axel Sola (11-0-1, 1-0 UFC)

Jones comes out throwing and pressuring. He lands some right hands and leg kicks. Jones mixes to the body. Jones with a combination. Sola lands a spinning back fist and Jones is hurt and he goes to his knees but gets up. They tie up against the fence and Jones is recovering as he lands short punches. Sola gets a takedown. Sola has the back as they scramble up. They separate. Sola lands a left hand. They briefly tie up with both landing a knee. Jones lands a combination and a knee and Sola is cut open. Jones is pressuring and landing as Sola gets the body lock. Sola scores a takedown. Sola in side control but Jones scrambles up. 10-9 Sola.

Jones pressing forward and lands a left hand. Jones with a body kick. They trade kicks. They tie up against the fence but quickly separate. Jones lands a right hand and a knee. Sola lands some right hands as Jones lands a pair of knees. Jones lands a head kick. Sola lands a left hand. Sola with a knee to the body. Jones lands a combo. Sola lands to the body. They tie up and Jones lands an uppercut. They break apart. Jones with a body kick. Sola is a bloody mess. Jones with a left hook and a right hand. Sola lands a knee. Sola lands a jab. Jones with two left hands. Sola with a combo. Jones lands a right hand and a leg kick. 10-9 Jones, 19-19.

Jones wobbles Sola with a head kick right away. Sola lands a spinning back fist and then Jones lands a spinning back fist. They clinch. Sola gets a big takedown into side control, but Jones gets right up and lands a knee. They trade right hands. Jones lands a knee to the body. Jones lands a body kick. Jones with a big right hand and Sola was hurt. Jones with another head kick. Sola lands a couple of stiff punches. Sola gets the Thai clinch and lands a pair of knees. Jones with a combination ending with a knee. Sola lands a combo and Jones lands a right hand. They’re both landing hard shots. Sola shoots for a takedown but Jones defends and Jones lands a kick to the body of Sola. Sola stands and Jones lands some big knees and is pouring it on at the end. Jones with several big knees and Sola is hurt badly and almost out but he survives. What a fight! 10-9 Jones, 29-28 Jones.

Fight Result- Mason Jones def. Axel Sola by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

MAIN CARD | 4 PM ET/1 PM PT

> Featherweights- Kurtis Campbell (8-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Danny Silva (10-2, 2-1 UFC)

Campbell lands a leg kick. Campbell scores a takedown. Campbell almost gets the full mount as he looks to take the back of Silva as Silva is scrambling. Campbell is adjusting as he has the back of Silva. Silva is able to scramble out and he gets the back of Campbell as they stand. Silva gets Campbell down but they stand and Campbell lands as they separate. Campbell pressures against the fence and is attacking the leg as they’re on the mat. Silva defends and lands an elbow and they stand. Silva lands a right hook. 10-9 Campbell.

Silva lands a right hand that drops Campbell and has Campbell hurt. Silva is landing against the fence as Campbell is having trouble standing and Silva drops Campbell again and continues to land and it is stopped! What a finish from Silva!

Fight Result- Danny Silva def. Kurtis Campbell by TKO (punches) at :31 of Round 2

> Middleweights- #11 Roman Dolidze (15-4, 9-4 UFC) vs. Christian Leroy Duncan (13-2, 6-2 UFC)

Duncan lands some leg kicks early. Dolidze is able to grab the leg and scores a takedown. Dolidze is controlling and has the back of Duncan but is doing absolutely nothing as he hasn’t even thrown a strike while controlling. They stand and Dolidze is going after the single leg and gets Duncan back down and has the back. They work to their feet. Duncan escapes and clips Dolidze with a spinning back fist. Duncan lands a body kick. Duncan lands a spinning elbow and Dolidze slips to the mat. Duncan lands some leg kicks as Dolidze is on his back. Dolidze is ordered up. Duncan with a wheel kick. Duncan lands two heavy leg kicks. Duncan hurts Dolidze with a right hand. Dolidze tries to pull guard but ends up on his back and Duncan lands some leg kicks. Dolidze is ordered to his feet. 10-9 Duncan.

Duncan comes forward switching stances and lands a leg kick. Dolidze lands a jab. Duncan with a flying knee that connects and Dolidze tries to attack the leg as he goes to the mat. Dolidze is ordered up. Duncan lands a big left hand. Duncan with a pair of leg kicks. Duncan landing kicks to the body and legs. Dolidze forces a clinch and pushes it against the fence. Dolidze is holding on to Duncan against the fence. They separate. Duncan lands a big flurry and Dolidze is backing up. Dolidze drops down looking for a takedown but ends up back standing. 10-9 Duncan, 20-18 Duncan.

Duncan rushes forward and almost slammed Dolidze down. Duncan with a pair of body kicks. Duncan working the kicks and he hurts Dolidze with a flurry. Dolidze attacks the legs and drags Duncan to the mat. Dolidze takes the back and is looking for the body triangle. He has it locked on. Dolidze lands from the back and is trying to find a choke opening, but Duncan is defending well. Dolidze lands from the back to end it. 10-9 Dolidze, 29-28 Duncan.

Fight Result- Christian Leroy Duncan def. Roman Dolidze by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Light Heavyweights- Iwo Baraniewski (7-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Austen Lane (13-7 1 NC, 1-4 1 NC UFC)

Baraniewski with a stiff leg kick. Lane lands a leg kick. Baraniewski drops Lane with a right hand followed by a left hook and lands shots from the top and it is quickly stopped. What a finish from Baraniewski!

Fight Result- Iwo Baraniewski def. Austen Lane by TKO (punches) at :28 of Round 1

> Welterweights- #13 Michael Page (24-3, 3-1 UFC) vs. Sam Patterson (14-2-1, 4-1 UFC)

Page comes forward and is pressuring, but not much has happened inside the first minute. Neither has thrown much two minutes in. Patterson connects with a punch and Page lands a right hand. They both land but the offensive output is very low on both sides. Page with a body kick. Page rushes in and lands. 10-9 Page.

Page lands a right hand. Page with another right hand and a leg kick. Page lands a right hand and Patterson connects with one. Page with a left hook. They clinch against the fence. Page forces separation after nothing happens. Page lands a jab and Patterson with a leg kick. Page with a quick combo. Patterson clips Page as he was coming in. They tie up and nothing happens. 10-9 Page, 20-18 Page.

Page lands a right hand. Patterson tries to land but Page circles away. They tie up against the fence. Both land a knee. They separate and Page lands an uppercut as Patterson comes it to clinch it up. Page reverses but then Patterson reverses before they are separated by the referee. Page circles away. Page lands a right hand. Page lands some leg kicks as he is landing with more volume, but neither is landing much. They clinch as time runs out. Awful fight. 10-9 Page, 30-27 Page.

Fight Result- Michael Page def. Sam Patterson by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

> Featherweights- Luke Riley (12-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Michael Aswell (11-3, 1-1 UFC)

Aswell lands some big shots against the fence as they clinch up, but they end up separating. They clinch back up and Aswell lands and they separate. Riley lands a right hand that connects and stuns Aswell for a moment. Riley lands a combination. Riley lands a big right hand. They have a wild exchange and both men land some big shots. 10-9 Aswell.

Aswell lands a combination. Riley with a leg kick. Riley connects with a solid right hand. They trade and Riley lands a kick but slips and Aswell grabs his back. Aswell with some knees to the legs of Riley. They separate. Riley with a leg kick. They both land combinations inside the pocket. Both connect with big shots. Riley landing more solidly and with more volume as the round goes on. Riley lands a combo. Aswell with a short combo. Riley lands a big right hand. 10-9 Riley, 19-19.

Riley lands and Aswell grabs the body lock and pushes it against the fence. They separate and Riley lands before Aswell clinches it back up, but they quickly break. Riley lands a right hand and they have an exchange in close range. Riley lands a solid left hook. Riley with another left hook. Riley lands a right hand. Aswell grabs the neck and Riley goes to sprawl position and escapes. Riley lands to the body and follows with an uppercut. Riley lands a left hand and Aswell counters with a right hand. Aswell with a hard combo and Riley lands. Aswell forces a clinch and pushes it against the fence. They separate and Riley lands a body kick and a combination. Riley with a right hook to the body. They both land in the final moments. 10-9 Riley, 29-28 Riley.

Fight Result- Luke Riley def. Michael Aswell by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Featherweights- #1 Movsar Evloev (19-0, 9-0 UFC) vs. #3 Lerone Murphy (17-0-1, 9-0-1 UFC)

They trade leg kicks. Murphy throwing kicks. Evloev with a right hand and Murphy lands a right hand. Murphy lands a solid right hand. Evloev with a body kick and he briefly slips. Evloev with a front kick to the body. Murphy with a high kick. Murphy lands a right hand. Murphy with a leg kick and a right hand. Evloev lands a left hand. Murphy with a leg kick and Evloev lands a body kick. Murphy lands another leg kick. Both throw and miss. 10-9 Murphy.

Murphy landing some kicks. Evloev with a couple of body kicks. Murphy with a series of leg kicks followed by a high kick, then a left hook. Murphy lands a right hand. Evloev connects with a solid right hand. They trade in close range. Evloev with a leg kick and lands a left hand. Murphy with a right hand to the body. Evloev lands a leg kick. They both land and Murphy lands a leg kick and a left hand to the body. They trade leg kicks. They both connect late. 10-9 Murphy, 20-18 Murphy.

Murphy with a left hand. They trade jabs and Evloev lands a body kick. Murphy lands a knee to the body and it allows Evloev to score a takedown, but they scramble up. Evloev pressuring as he has the back against the fence, but Murphy forces separation. Murphy lands a jab. Timeout is called for a groin strike by Evloev. Murphy lands a body kick. Evloev lands a body kick. Murphy lands a right hand. Murphy with a body kick and a combination and then lands to the body. Murphy continues to land with more volume. Evloev with a late flurry and lands a right hand. Close round. 10-9 Evloev, 29-28 Murphy.

Evloev lands a body kick and then lands another groin strike, so timeout is called. Evloev has a point taken away and they return to action. Murphy lands a leg kick. They trade right hands. Evloev gets Murphy briefly down but they get right up. Murphy lands a body kick and they trade right hands. Evloev scores a takedown and lands from the back. They end up back on the feet and Murphy lands a body kick. Evloev lands a combination. Murphy lands a high kick and slips to the mat. Evloev gets on the back and lands and they get to their feet. 9-9 Evloev with the point deduction, 38-37 Murphy.

Murphy lands a right hand and Evloev with an uppercut. Murphy lands a body kick. Evloev with a body kick. Murphy lands a leg kick. Evloev scores a takedown. Evloev with some punches from the back. Murphy tries to roll out but Evloev ends up in the half-guard. Evloev gets the full mount and starts to land. They scramble up and Evloev has back control and keeps landing and dragging it down. They separate and Evloev lands a combination. Murphy lands a jumping knee. Murphy with a right hand. Murphy tries a spinning elbow and Evloev has the back and drags it down. They stand and Evloev scores a takedown. They scramble up and trade late. 10-9 Evloev, 47-47 DRAW.

Fight Result- Movsar Evloev def. Lerone Murphy by majority decision (48-46, 48-46, 47-47)

UFC Fight Night 269 live results: Josh Emmett vs. Kevin Vallejos

Posted on by Ryan Frederick

A busy stretch for the UFC continues this weekend as the Octagon returns to the Meta Apex in Las Vegas for UFC Fight Night 269 on Paramount+.

The five-round main event takes place in the featherweight division as long-time veteran Josh Emmett takes on rising contender Kevin Vallejos in a battle of ranked opponents. Emmett is looking to get back into the win column after dropping his previous two fights. Vallejos, in his first UFC main event, is looking to extend a win streak that currently sits at six straight victories.

In the co-main event, a battle of top-ten strawweights goes down as former title challenger Amanda Lemos takes on Gillian Robertson, winner of four straight fights. Also on the main card is a featherweight bout between Andre Fili and Jose Delgado; a light heavyweight slugfest between Ion Cutelaba and Oumar Sy; and a battle of ranked flyweights with Charles Johnson taking on Bruno Silva.

PRELIMS | 5 PM ET/2 PM PT

> Women’s Strawweights- Piera Rodriguez (11-2, 4-2 UFC) vs. Sam Hughes (11-6, 6-5 UFC)

Rodriguez lands a combination and a leg kick. They trade as Rodriguez lands a right hand. Rodriguez lands and looks for a takedown against the fence, but Hughes defends. Rodriguez lands a right hand and Hughes pokes her in the eye and timeout is called. They get back to action and Rodriguez lands a left hand. They trade and Rodriguez looks for a takedown. Hughes defends it as they battle in the clinch against the fence. Rodriguez lands a combination as they separate. Hughes with a pair of leg kicks and lands to the body. Rodriguez lands a solid right hand and goes back looking for a takedown. They break apart and Rodriguez lands as Hughes takes the back standing. They break apart after each land knees. Hughes lands a combination. Rodriguez lands a combo and a pair of knees against the fence. Rodriguez lands an elbow and they separate. Rodriguez lands a big combo late. 10-9 Rodriguez.

Rodriguez lands a body kick and slips, but she gets right up. Hughes lands a pair of leg kicks but also eats a counter right hand from Rodriguez. Rodriguez lands a combo to the body and head. Hughes connects with a right hand. They clinch and Rodriguez lands a series of knees before separating. Rodriguez scores a takedown and lands from inside the guard of Hughes. They get up and Rodriguez lands a left hand on the way up. Rodriguez lands a combination right into the clinch, where she lands some knees. They separate and Rodriguez lands some big punches. 10-9 Rodriguez, 20-18 Rodriguez.

Hughes lands a leg kick. Rodriguez with a head kick as Hughes is starting to bleed from the bridge of her nose. Rodriguez lands a right hand followed by a pair of leg kicks. They clinch and Rodriguez lands some solid knees to the body. They both battle to score a takedown but end up breaking apart. Rodriguez lands a left hand. Hughes with a pair of jabs as Rodriguez lands a high kick. Hughes with a combination. They tie up and both land knees. They separate and Rodriguez lands a combination. She lands another combo. They trade combinations. They trade late with Rodriguez landing some big shots. 10-9 Rodriguez, 30-27 Rodriguez.

Fight Result- Piera Rodriguez def. Sam Hughes by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Bantamweights- Luan Lacerda (13-3, 1-2 UFC) vs. Hecher Sosa (14-1, 0-0 UFC)

Sosa landing some big shots early and he goes for a takedown. Lacerda is able to reverse and scores a takedown and lands a few shots from the top before standing. They clinch and Sosa lands some knees and Lacerda with some uppercuts. Lacerda lands a leg kick and Sosa slips to the mat and they clinch when Sosa stands. Sosa lands some knees. Lacerda scores a takedown. Lacerda lands from the top and they get to their feet. Sosa lands a big combination and has Lacerda hurt. Lacerda recovers and they trade punches. Lacerda with some high kicks and Sosa lands a right hand. 10-9 Lacerda.

Sosa lands a left hand. Sosa lands a solid right hand. Sosa with a big combination against the fence. Lacerda with a pair of body kicks. Sosa lands a left hand. They trade jabs. They trade and Lacerda lands a stiff jab. Both land some solid shots and both are showing some color. Sosa lands a combination against the fence. Sosa lands a combination. Sosa with a left hand. They trade body kicks and Sosa lands a combination. Sosa lands some big punches against the fence as Lacerda is hurt. 10-9 Sosa, 19-19.

Lacerda gets a takedown. They get up and tie up against the fence and Sosa lands an elbow before they separate. They’re trading lots of punches and Sosa lands with more impact. They trade body kicks before clinching. Sosa with some hard knees and elbows as both are landing. Sosa lands some hard punches in a brief clinch. Lacerda grabs the single leg and scores a takedown. Lacerda is complaining of an eye poke but the referee didn’t see it and Sosa lands. Sosa landing more late. Sosa with a left hand and a combination. Sosa lands a leg kick and a solid right hand. Sosa with a stiff right hand and lands a leg kick. They clinch and Lacerda lands some knees and they have a big exchange at the end. 10-9 Sosa, 29-28 Sosa.

Fight Result- Hecher Sosa def. Luan Lacerda by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

> Women’s Bantamweights- Bia Mesquita (6-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Montserrat Rendon (7-1, 2-1 UFC)

Rendon comes out firing punches. Mesquita lands a punch that hurts Rendon. Mesquita gets Rendon down and lands punches and elbows. They get up but Mesquita scores an easy takedown and gets the full mount. Mesquita with big hammerfists from the top. Mesquita landing elbows. Mesquita gets the back and locks in a rear-naked choke and Rendon taps! Mesquita with the dominant win.

Fight Result- Bia Mesquita def. Monteserrat Rendon by submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:07 of Round 1

> Middleweights- Brad Tavares (21-11, 16-11 UFC) vs. Eryk Anders (17-9 1 NC, 9-9 1 NC UFC)

Tavares lands a leg kick and they trade punches before Anders looks for a takedown against the fence. Anders with some body shots against the fence. Tavares lands a knee. Tavares lands another knee and Anders lands some elbows before Tavares lands a right hand and separates. Tavares with a head kick. Anders shoots for another takedown as Tavares defends. Tavares with a knee. Anders with a flurry before they separate. Tavares lands a hard body kick. Tavares with a knee and Anders drops down for a takedown attempt. Anders lands a knee and Tavares lands a right hand before they break. Tavares lands an uppercut as Anders goes back looking for a takedown. Anders lands a pair of knees and a right hand that makes Tavares stumble to the mat. Anders lands from the top and is landing lots of big punches as they stand, though Tavares lands a right hand. Anders with some big shots late. 10-9 Anders.

They trade and Tavares lands a right hand. Anders looks for a takedown,but Tavares defends and they separate. Tavares lands a big knee that drops Anders and Tavares starts landing from the top. Tavares gets on top and looks for the back, but Anders scrambles to the top. Anders lands from the top and stands. Anders gets back into the guard as Tavares is attacking the triangle choke. Anders gets the back and lands. They get to their feet and Anders lands a flurry. Tavares lands a right hand. Tavares lands a knee as they tie up. They trade late. 10-9 Tavares, 19-19.

They trade and Anders scores a takedown. Tavares gives up his back as they stand. Anders drops down for a takedown attempt but Tavares defends. They separate and both land when they briefly clinch. Tavares lands a combination. Anders with a pair of big left hands. Anders scores a big takedown into side control. Anders lands and has control of the back of Tavares as they almost get to their feet. Anders drags it back down and gets neck control. They get to their feet and break apart. They swing wildly and Anders looks for a takedown and gets it as Tavares has the neck. Anders escapes and lands from the top. 10-9 Anders, 29-28 Anders.

Fight Result- Eryk Anders def. Brad Tavares by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

> Lightweights- Bolaji Oki (10-3, 2-2 UFC) vs. Manoel Sousa (13-1, 0-0 UFC)

Oki lands a series of leg kicks. Oki works the jab. Sousa drops Oki with a right hand and begins teeing off with big shots from the top, mixing to the head and body. Oki survives the first onslaught. Sousa looks to grab the arm and work for a kimura. They stand and Oki is able to score a takedown. Sousa is still attacking the arm. Oki lands to the body. Sousa lets go of the arm and Oki is landing from the top. Oki lands some elbows and a knee on the way up. They trade knees against the fence. Oki lands to the body. Sousa lands a left hand on the break. 10-9 Sousa.

Oki with a high kick. They trade punches and Oki lands a big right hand and a knee. Oki with a pair of leg kicks. Oki with a jab and left hand. Sousa lands a big right hand. They trade wild shots and Oki knocks Sousa off balance with a leg kick. They trade inside the pocket. Oki pushes it against the fence and they battle for underhooks. Sousa lands a left hook and Oki stumbles a little. They trade in close range. Timeout is called for an eye poke by Oki. They get back to action and both land heavy shots. Oki with a knee to the body and a leg kick. Sousa lands a right hand. Oki lands a combo but eats a left hook from Sousa. 10-9 Oki, 19-19.

Oki working the jab as both land to open the third. Oki with a pair of leg kicks as Sousa lands a right hand. They trade leg kicks as Oki lands a right hand. Sousa lands a left hook. Sousa landing with more impact and volume thus far this round. Sousa looks for a takedown but Oki defends. Sousa lands a combination. Oki with a big knee to the body. Sousa with a series of punches. Sousa with a pair of left hands. Sousa lands a flurry of shots to the head and body. Sousa with another big flurry. Oki fires back with a big combination. Sousa lands a big left hand and a nasty left hook. Sousa with a big right hand and then knocks Oki out cold with a massive right hand! What a finish from Sousa!

Fight Result- Manoel Sousa def. Bolaji Oki by knockout (punch) at 4:12 of Round 3

> Bantamweights- Elijah Smith (9-1, 2-0 UFC) vs. SuYoung You (16-3 1 NC, 3-0 UFC)

Smith works the jab and lands a combination. Smith lands a big knee as You went for a takedown. They scramble to the mat with Smith on top. They scramble up and You scores a takedown. He has the body as they stand and he drags it back down with back control. They stand with You keeping back control. You briefly gets Smith down again and has the back again as they stand. You drags it down for a moment and jumps on Smith’s back on the feet. You with some punches from the back. Smith reverses to the top and has control as they stand. Smith lands a knee. You scores a late takedown. 10-9 You.

Smith lands an uppercut and right hand. You looks for a takedown but Smith lands an uppercut. Smith drops You with a right hand and starts landing. Smith grabs the back and locks in a rear-naked choke and You taps! Big finish from Smith!

Fight Result- Elijah Smith def. SuYoung You by submission (rear-naked choke) at 1:04 of Round 2

> Heavyweights- Vitor Petrino (13-2, 6-2 UFC) vs. Steven Asplund (7-1, 1-0 UFC)

Asplund works the jab early. Petrino lands a pair of big left hands. Asplund lands a leg kick. Petrino looks for a takedown but Asplund defends as they clinch against the fence. Petrino backs off. Petrino lands a leg kick and a combination to the body. Petrino lands some leg kicks. Asplund with a leg kick. Asplund rocks Petrino with some big punches and Petrino goes down. Asplund landing big shots from the top but Petrino gets up and circles away. Asplund pretends to moon Petrino. Asplund lands a leg kick. 10-9 Asplund.

Asplund works the jab. Petrino lands a high kick and Asplund slips to the mat. Petrino jumps on the back and is working for a choke. Asplund escapes and Petrino has the back as they stand. They trade big punches. Petrino landing heavy punches and kicks as both men are exhausted. Petrino with a combo and Asplund lands a solid left hand. Petrino lands and knocks Asplund’s mouth piece out. They trade late. 10-9 Petrino, 19-19.

Asplund lands a pair of leg kicks. Petrino lands a leg kick and a jab. Petrino lands to the body. Asplund lands a big right hand and Petrino stumbles. Petrino stays on his feet and lands a big flurry as he recovered. Petrino with another big flurry. Asplund with a left hand. Petrino lands a leg kick and then another. Petrino lands some body kicks. Petrino lands a left hand. Asplund is covered in blood and breathing heavy. Petrino kicks Asplund’s leg from out under him. Petrino with a combination. They trade in close range. Petrino lands a combo. 10-9 Petrino, 29-28 Petrino.

Fight Result- Vitor Petrino def. Steven Asplund by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Welterweights- Chris Curtis (32-12 1 NC, 6-4 1 NC UFC) vs. Myktybek Orolbai (15-2-1, 4-1 UFC)

Orolbai lands to the body early. They trade left hands. Orolbai looks for a takedown and gets it. Orolbai gets the back as they stand. Orolbai slams Curtis down to the mat, but they pop right up. Orolbai with some knees to the legs as he drags Curtis down. Orolbai with some right hands as they scramble up and he drags it back down. Orolbai lands from the back as Curtis is covering up. Orolbai with big punches from the back and some may have been illegal. They stand and Orolbai dumps Curtis to the ground, but they get right up. Orolbai with some knees. 10-9 Orolbai.

They trade and Orolbai scores a takedown. Orolbai has back control and looks for the neck as he lands some punches. They stand and Orolbai has back control. Orolbai landing and keeps dragging it down and controlling. Curtis is landing defensive punches but with no damage. They stand and Orolbai lands some knees. 10-9 Orolbai, 20-18 Orolbai.

They trade and Orolbai lands a leg kick. Orolbai controlling against the fence and lands a big takedown. Orolbai controls from the top. Curtis is landing from the bottom as Orolbai is just controlling and dragging it down whenever they get up. They separate late. 10-9 Orolbai, 30-27 Orolbai.

Fight Result- Myktybek Orolbai def. Chris Curtis by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

MAIN CARD | 8 PM ET/5 PM PT

> Flyweights- #14 Charles Johnson (18-8, 7-6 UFC) vs. #15 Bruno Silva (15-7-2 1 NC, 5-4 1 NC UFC)

Silva lands a leg kick. Johnson lands some body kicks. Silva gets the clinch against the fence. Silva controlling as both look for the best position but not a lot is happening. Johnson lands an elbow and a knee. They separate. Silva lands a combination. Johnson with a head kick. Silva with a body kick. They trade at the end. 10-9 Johnson.

They trade in close range as both land right hands. Silva lands and looks for a takedown against the fence. Silva with left hands to the body in the clinch. Timeout is called for a low blow by Silva after an exchange. Johnson is able to go right away. They trade leg kicks. Silva with a standing elbow. They trade as Johnson lands a body kick. Silva lands a jab. Johnson with a body kick. Silva lands a big combination against the fence. Johnson with a body kick after Silva wobbled him. Timeout is called for a clash of heads. They get back to action and timeout is immediately for another groin strike by Silva. They get back going and have a quick exchange. 10-9 Silva, 19-19.

They come out trading and Silva pushes it against the fence. They separate and both land solid shots as Silva lands a solid combination. Silva lands a body kick then a solid right hand as he’s landing with more volume. Silva with a flurry against the fence as Johnson is hurt. Silva pushes it against the fence and lands some short shots. They separate and Johnson lands a body kick. Silva lands a spinning back elbow. Silva pressuring and he pushes Johnson to the fence. Silva chases the takedown but Johnson defends. Johnson lands a body kick. Johnson lands a knee to the body. They tie up and both land to the body. Johnson lands a combination and a knee. Johnson starting to land with more volume and impact. Johnson lands a big combination. They trade late. Close fights. 10-9 Johnson, 29-28 Johnson.

Fight Result- Charles Johnson def. Bruno Silva by split decision (28-29, 29-28, 30-27)

> Light Heavyweights- Ion Cutelaba (19-11-1 1 NC, 8-10-1 UFC) vs. Oumar Sy (12-1, 3-1 UFC)

Sy lands some early kicks. They trade a lot of leg kicks and Sy lands a stiff right hand. Cutelaba gets the underhooks and pushes it against the fence. Sy is able to score a takedown, but Cutelaba uses the momentum to swing to the top. Cutelaba with short punches from the top. Cutelaba stands and lands from the top as Sy is trapping a leg. Sy looks for a leg lock. Cutelaba is able to escape and gets right back on top. Cutelaba grabs the neck and locks in a quick mounted guillotine choke and Sy taps immediately. What a finish from Cutelaba!

Fight Result- Ion Cutelaba def. Oumar Sy by submission (guillotine choke) at 4:24 of Round 1

> Featherweights- Marwan Rahiki (7-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Harry Hardwick (13-4-1, 0-1 UFC)

Rahiki lands a leg kick. Hardwick lands a leg kick. Rahiki with a right hand and a high kick. Hardwick catches the kick and jumps on the back on the feet. Hardwick has the body triangle locked on. Rahiki is able to break free and they’re on the feet. Rahiki lands a right hand. Hardwick with a solid right hand. Rahiki lands some wild hooks. Hardwick lands a few jabs. They trade and Hardwick lands a right hand. They trade body kicks. Rahiki with a pair of leg kicks. Rahiki lands a body kick and Hardwick with a flurry of punches. Rahiki is landing lots of big punches that are hurting Hardwick. Hardwick fires back and lands a high kick and a flurry. They trade leg kicks. Rahiki lands a solid combination. Rahiki with a spin kick to the body. 10-9 Rahiki.

They trade and Hardwick hurts Rahiki with a left hand. Rahiki lands a head kick that stuns Hardwick. Rahiki backs him to the fence and lands a big elbow. Rahiki landing a big flurry against the fence but Hardwick backs him up with a body kick and they have a wild exchange. Rahiki lands a flush left hand and Hardwick is hurt. Rahiki landing big punches against the fence. Hardwick is firing back and lands a right hand. Rahiki with a spin attack but eats a left hand from Hardwick. Rahiki with a big left hand and an elbow. Hardwick works the jab. They trade jabs and Rahiki lands a spin kick to the body. Rahiki lands a knee and Hardwick turns it into a takedown, but Rahiki reverses to the top. Rahiki lands to the body from inside the guard. They get to their feet. They both land a leg kick. 10-9 Rahiki, 20-18 Rahiki.

Hardwick told his corner in between rounds that his jaw was broken, and his corner decided to stop the fight. It did look nasty and it was clear the jaw was broken. This was a great fight.

Fight Result- Marwan Rahiki def. Harry Hardwick by TKO (corner stoppage) at 5:00 of Round 2

> Featherweights- Andre Fili (25-12 1 NC, 13-11 1 NC UFC) vs. Jose Delgado (10-2, 2-1 UFC)

They trade leg kicks and Delgado lands a body kick. Fili fires back with a heavy combination. Fili lands a right hand. Delgado with a leg kick. Delgado with a head kick and they trade and Fili drops Delgado with a right hand. Delgado is able to get up and shoots for a takedown, but Fili defends. They trade jabs. Delgado lands a body kick. Fili with a body kick. Fili lands another body kick. Fili with a left hand. They trade right hands. Fili lands a big right hand and scores a takedown. Fili has the back as they stand. 10-9 Fili.

They trade left hands as Delgado lands a leg kick. Delgado looks for a takedown but abandons it as Fili defended. Delgado with a body kick. Delgado with a pair of leg kicks. Fili lands a big left hand. Delgado with a spin kick to the body and another body kick. Delgado with another pair of kicks. Delgado with a big flurry against the fence as he lands elbows and knees. Fili forces a separation. Delgado lands a heavy calf kick. They trade punches. Delgado gets a takedown and lands from the top, but Fili forces a scramble up. Delgado lands some kicks. Fili with a left hand. Fili ducks under and scores a takedown. 10-9 Delgado, 19-19.

Fili lands a combination. Fili with a leg kick. They trade jabs. Fili misses a head kick but lands a body kick. Fili with a solid right hand. They have a wild exchange inside the pocket. Delgado with a leg kick. Fili lands a right hand. Delgado with a leg kick then a body kick. They trade punches. Delgado lands a head kick. Delgado lands two right hands. Fili with a leg kick. Fili lands a body kick. Delgado with a big right hand. Delgado lands a knee and an elbow as they clinch. Delgado with an elbow on the break. Delgado lands a right hand. Delgado with a stiff calf kick. Fili ducks under and scores a takedown. They stand and Fili scores another takedown and they both land on the mat. Close fight. 10-9 Delgado, 29-28 Delgado.

Fight Result- Jose Delgado def. Andre Fili by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

> Women’s Strawweights- #5 Amanda Lemos (15-5-1, 9-5 UFC) vs. #8 Gillian Robertson (16-8, 13-6 UFC)

Lemos lands the jab and a front kick. They clinch against the fence and Robertson reverses and forces separation. Lemos with a right hand to the body and Robertson forces a clinch. Robertson is working for a takedown but Lemos is defending. Robertson gets it down to the mat. Lemos reverses and they scramble as Robertson has the body. Lemos is landing elbows and some are to the back of the head. Robertson tries to get to the top but Lemos is on top and lands some more elbows. Lemos gets into side control. Robertson scrambles and Lemos has the back. Robertson escapes and is on top and they get to their feet. They separate and Lemos lands a high kick. 10-9 Lemos.

Robertson lands a calf kick but eats a right hand from Lemos. Lemos lands a leg kick and Robertson is able to score a takedown. Lemos is trying to throw her legs up but Robertson transitions into side control. Lemos looks for a reverse triangle choke and Robertson gets the north-south position. Robertson has back control but Lemos slides out and Robertson keeps top control. Robertson lands some elbows from the half-guard. Robertson tries to get the mount but Lemos starts scrambling. Robertson looking for a D’Arce choke. Lemos escapes. Robertson with some elbows to the side of Lemos. They get up and Lemos scores a takedown and lands from the top but Robertson forces it up. Lemos lands to end the round. 10-9 Robertson, 19-19.

Robertson lands a leg kick. Lemos lands a left hand. They clinch against the fence and Lemos lands a knee. They break apart. Lemos works the jab as Robertson is pressuring. Robertson is able to score a takedown. They get up but Robertson maintains neck control. Robertson lands as they separate. Lemos works the jab but Robertson looks for the takedown against the fence. Robertson attacking the single leg and they scramble to the mat. Lemos looks for an armbar. Robertson escapes and ends up on top in side control. Robertson working from the half-guard now and lands some elbows. Robertson keeps side control and they both land late as Robertson gets the mount late. Close fight. 10-9 Robertson, 29-28 Robertson.

Fight Result- Gillian Robertson def. Amanda Lemos by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Featherweights- #11 Josh Emmett (19-6, 10-6 UFC) vs. #14 Kevin Vallejos (17-1, 3-0 UFC)

Vallejos with a high kick that Emmett blocks. Vallejos lands a combination followed by a calf kick. Vallejos lands and Emmett looks for a takedown, but Vallejos defends. Emmett throws and Vallejos lands a counter combo and Emmett slips to the mat. Vallejos lands as Emmett stands and Emmett is cut open. They trade and Vallejos lands a calf kick. They trade and Vallejos drops Emmett with a right hand. Vallejos is landing big punches and elbows from the top. Emmett gives up his back and Vallejos lands. They stand and Vallejos lands a knee. Emmett swings big and slips. Vallejos with a bunch of knees and a right hand puts Emmett to his knees and it is stopped! What a finish by Vallejos!

Fight Result- Kevin Vallejos def. Josh Emmett by TKO (strikes) at 3:33 of Round 1

Tony Khan would love for AEW to be on the same channel as UFC

Posted on by Josh Nason

Tony Khan is not shy about his view for the future in the potential post-WBD & Paramount Skydance world, saying he’d love for AEW and UFC to be on the same platform.

Khan spoke to the media for an hour Thursday to promote this Sunday’s AEW Revolution pay-per-view when he was asked by our Dave Meltzer about the narrative that TKO’s relationship with Paramount will force AEW to eventually go elsewhere.

Khan talked at length about his relationships with David Zaslav, WBD personnel and that of David Ellison who owns Paramount. He said he thinks the potential purchase would be “huge” for AEW given they will be on TNT and TBS for a long time in addition to a secure future on HBO Max.

“There are tons of sports that exist on those platforms. I’d love to be on the same channel as UFC. I have a great relationship with Dana White and Hunter Campbell. While their sister promotion is also in pro wrestling and it’s of a competitive nature there, I think on my behalf I’d love to be on the same channel as UFC. I see a lot of positive utility for that,” he said.

There has been speculative talk from TKO head Mark Shapiro about UFC appearing on TNT, also mentioned by Ellison in a recent call. UFC airs on Saturday nights as does AEW Collision on TNT.

The Paramount/WBD sale has plenty of legal hurdles to clear before it’s approved.

Khan later said there’s never been an opportunity for AEW to be on the same platform as the NFL and he is thrilled for the prospect to be part of a media company that carries games.

Daily Update: UFC White House card fallout, Jon Jones, MyAEW

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

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This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • March 9, 2026 Observer Newsletter: More on AEW’s potential future with Paramount, WWE Elimination Chamber review & ratings
  • More on the Paramount purchase of WBD and details of when it goes through, if it goes through and details on how it helps or hurts UFC, AEW and Zuffa Boxing as well as a cost efficiency look at the three properties for 2027 if plans go through as stated.
  • The road to WrestleMania and why Paul Levesque is in a position where it’s impossible for him to do the job people want and impossible for him to fail, business notes on the show, and a look at the Elimination Chamber show, how it did on Netflix, the good and the bad.
  • Preview and updates on AEW Revolution and interest level
  • Odds on upcoming wrestling matches
  • Coverage of the New Japan New Beginning USA show in Trenton with two title changes
  • A look at the Demolition tag team as they go into the WWE Hall of Fame
  • The most detailed look at the ratings of all the pro wrestling TV shows, including demos, competition and comparisons with last year.
  • Johnny TV in the most heated match so far this year with Angel de Oro
  • Why AAA television is so entertaining
  • Stardom Cinderella tournament notes
  • Brothers face off in NOAH jr. tag tournament final
  • New Japan Cup first two days
  • Final night of Fantastica Mania notes
  • Jeff Jarrett documentary
  • Wrestler out of prison starts working on indices this week
  • Real American Freestyle angle
  • Update of the robbery of the Canadian promotion and the Davey Boy Smith Jr. Hall of Fame ring
  • John Laurinaitis wants back in to wrestling
  • 16 Carat Gold weekend in Germany
  • Pro Wrestling Eve has biggest show of its history this week
  • Brodie Lee Jr. first singles match date
  • Steph De Lander talks why she and Mance Warner quit TNA
  • Notes on David Finlay signing with AEW
  • ROH first TV tapings in a studio
  • UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight title updates
  • Lots of new UFC fights
  • Updates on WWE front office news and changes
  • The story behind leaking fast nationals
  • WWE accused of deleting key information in a lawsuit
  • More notes on the WWE deal with Endeavor and how it went down
  • Janel Grant speaks in favor of changing Connecticut law on NDAs
  • Bianca Belair update
  • WWE sends out unchecked email to network subscribers causing a panic
  • Next WWE media deal to be made
  • WWE injury updates
  • Nick Khan sells millions in TKO stock

This Week’s Back Issue

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Monday Update

Bella Twins

— Bryan and I will be back tonight talking about a ton of news including the White House show and how we got there, WWE court cases updates, WrestleMania, AEW’s new service, Jon Jones, NXT Vengeance Day, Raw and a lot more.

— Francis Ngannou vs. Philipe Lins, a 40-year-old former UFC light heavyweight, has been added to the 5/16 Gina Carano vs. Ronda Rousey Netflix show that MVP Promotions is putting on. Rousey, in promoting the fight, said on X, “That what happens when you put fighters and fans ahead of shareholders. PS. UFC”S White House card sucks!” There will be a press conference for this show tomorrow at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles and tickets go on sale Tuesday. Ticket sales will be interesting. I expect the show to do very good numbers on Netflix, but I’m not as certain about live ticket sales if they are charging high prices. Nobody has drawn a big house for MMA in this country except for UFC probably dating back to the Strikeforce heyday in San Jose.

— After Dana White said that Jon Jones was never in the plans for the White House card, and he said he told Jones lawyer some time back when Jones wanted on the show that it was never going to happen, ever, Jones claims he was in talks as late as Friday. He said they were in real talks and real negotiations and said he came down from his original number, but was lowballed. Stories out indicate Jones wanted $25 million and UFC offered $15 million. He said he got stem cell treatment last week to get ready to train. He said if UFC thinks he’s done, then please give him his release. Right now with the nature of Netflix and MVP Promotions, Jones probably could make more with a fight with Francis Ngannou than any fight in UFC now. So I don’t know if the UFC would be willing to release him for that.

— The new AEW service looks to me as something they are setting up as a replacement for Triller, which has major financial issues. This has nothing to do with the U.S. television situation and this service is not even available in the U.S., because the contract with WBD would not allow it to be.

— Raw tonight is from Seattle with a Gauntlet match for a women’s IC title shot with Bayley, Lyra Valkyria, Asuka, Iyo Sky and Raquel Rodriguez, Oba Femi vs. Rusev and Penta vs. Grande Americano Gable. Neither Roman Reigns nor Brock Lesnar are scheduled, but both will be regulars on Raw starting next week in San Antonio. They had 8,755 tickets out as of earlier today, so again a good crowd but far from a sellout.

— Wrestletix lists AEW Double or Nothing for Louie Armstrong Stadium as having moved 6,545 tickets so far.

— TNA Impact on Thursday did 249,000 viewers and an 0.04 in 18-49. It was the second best viewer number, tied for fourth best 18-49 number since they started on AMC. This was a live show from Atlanta.

— NXT tomorrow has Joe Hendry & Myles Borne vs. Ricky Starks & Ethan Page, Lainey Reid vs. Sol Ruca, Wren Sinclair vs. Thea Hail, winner faces Speed champion Fallon Henley next week, Tavion Heights & Charlie Dempsey vs. Lexis King & Uriah Connors and Jasper Troy vs. Eli Knight vs. Sean Legacy.

— Eddie Hearn, as a guest on Ariel Helwani’s show, in his feud with Dana White said that he’d knock White out in three rounds or less if they boxed and said that when White does interviews with UK outlets, that the reporters are told ahead of time what they are allowed to ask and that UFC asks to see the interview before it can go out.

— Chelsea Green was on the Bellas podcast and said Michael Hayes has apologized to her over what he said months ago on WWE Unreal.

— Raven posted a photo of himself with Rosemary and The Bunny (who also returns to TNA meaning she was not given an AEW contract renewal) as a preview for the already shot show on Thursday.

— CMLL, with no advance warning, streamed last night’s Arena Mexico show featuring the return of Mascara Dorada. Dorada & Templario & Neon beat Angel de Oro & Hechicero & Barbaro Cavernario in the main event. Tomorrow night’s show at Arena Mexico which does stream live has Dorada & Templario vs. Difunto & Hechicero, Neon vs. Flip Gordon and Corbade & El Hijo de Stuka Jr. & Felino Jr. face Blue Panther Jr. & Dark Panther & El Hijo de Blue Panther for the Mexican national trios tites. Blue Panther vs. Stuka Jr. and Atlantis Jr. & Titan & Xelhua vs Angel de Oro & El Hijo del Villano III & Soberano Jr. will headline in Guadalajara tomorrow.

— Claudio Castagnoli vs. Ultimo Guerrero for the CMLL heavyweight title in a rematch will be on Friday’s Arena Mexico show. Their first match was good, nothing compared to Castagnoli’s big AEW singles bouts though.

— The New Japan Cup continues in Okayama at 4:30 a.m. Eastern tomorrow morning has Shingo Takagi vs. Don Fale and Drilla Moloney vs. Yuya Uemura.

— Norvell Austin turns 75 today. Nikita Koloff turns 67. Rick Steiner turns 65. Tiger Ali Singh turns 55. Melina Perez turns 47. Aubrey Edwards turns 39. Eddie Creachman, the manager of The Sheik, was 66 when he passed away 32 years ago today. Wally Yamaguchi (Yamaguchi-san in WWF) was 60 when he passed away seven years ago today. (thanks to Tony Richards)

Ronda Rousey takes shot at UFC White House card

Posted on by Joseph Currier

While promoting her return to mixed martial arts, Ronda Rousey took a shot at the UFC’s recently announced White House card.

Rousey will return to MMA when she faces off against Gina Carano on May 16. It was announced today that former UFC heavyweight Champion Francis Ngannou will also compete on the Netflix special, facing off against Philipe Lins in the co-main event. Rousey celebrated that addition today while slighting UFC in the process.

“NgannouVsLins joins #RouseyVsCarano on @Netflix May 16th! How’s THAT for a bamf laden double headliner? That’s what happens when you put fighters and fans ahead of shareholders @MostVpromotions,” Rousey tweeted. “P.S. @ufc’s White House card sucks”

This will be Rousey’s first MMA fight since 2016 and Carano’s first since 2009. Rousey initially pitched the fight to UFC, but negotiations ended up breaking down. The Netflix special is being promoted by Jake Paul and Nakisa Bidarian’s MVP Promotions. It’s the first MMA show MVP has promoted and the first MMA card to be broadcast live on Netflix.

UFC’s White House show is taking place in June as part of the United States’ 250th birthday celebration. The lineup was announced this past weekend with Ilia Topuria vs. Justin Gaethje and Alex Pereira vs. Ciryl Gane as the top two bouts. Both are title fights.

UFC announces full White House ‘Freedom 250’ card

Posted on by Josh Nason

The full card for the much-discussed UFC Freedom 250 card at the White House this June has finally been revealed and will continue to be discussed after the announcement.

Announced during Saturday’s UFC 326 broadcast, the Sunday, June 14, 2026, event will feature two title fights with one of them featuring Alex Pereira gunning for his unprecedented third UFC title in three divisions.

The main event will feature UFC lightweight champion and one of their top stars in Ilia Topuria defending against interim champion Justin Gaethje.

In the co-main event, former middleweight and light heavyweight champion Pereira facing Cyril Gane for the interim heavyweight title and not Jon Jones as many had speculated. On Saturday night, news broke that a fight fell off the show with speculation now shifting to that which is unconfirmed as of this writing.

Former UFC bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley will take on Aiemann Zahabi while former Bellator lightweight champion Michael Chandler will fight Mauricio Ruffy.

The six-fight show is rounded out by Bo Nickal vs. Kyle Daukaus, and Diego Lopes vs. Steve Garcia.

The show will feature no female fights, no Jones, and no Gable Steveson as some has speculated as the impetus to sign him to a UFC deal. The initial response on social media was less than enthusiastic.

UFC 326 live results: Max Holloway vs. Charles Oliveira 2 BMF Title fight

Posted on by Ryan Frederick

Two bonafide future UFC Hall of Fame fighters step inside the Octagon to do battle this weekend as UFC 326 takes place inside the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, airing on Paramount+ with a special two-hour block of fights airing on CBS for the first time.

The main event sees the UFC BMF Championship on the line as current title holder Max Holloway defends against Charles Oliveira. This is a rematch of a fight that never really got going over a decade ago when Holloway scored a win over Oliveria in August 2015 when Oliveira suffered an injury less than two minutes into the fight. Both men have gone on to become champions and carve out legendary careers heading into this rematch.

The co-main event is a middleweight bout between two men aiming to get back into title contention as Caio Borralho takes on Reinier de Ridder.

Also on the main card is a bantamweight bout between Rob Font and Raul Rosas Jr.; a lightweight bout pitting Drew Dober against Michael Johnson; and a middleweight bout between Gregory Rodrigues and Brunno Ferreira.

The Dober vs. Johnson and Rodrigues vs. Ferreira bouts, as well as a bantamweight fight between Cody Garbrandt and Xiao Long, and a middleweight bout between Donte Johnson and Cody Brundage, will air on CBS, the first two-hour block of UFC action on the station under the new media rights deal. That two-hour block begins at 8 p.m. eastern time.

PRELIMS | 5:30 PM ET/2:30 PM PT

> Light Heavyweights- Luke Fernandez (6-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Rodolfo Bellato (12-3-1 1 NC, 1-1-1 1 NC UFC)

Fernandez lands a knee to the body to start. Fernandez lands a leg kick and starts working the jab. Fernandez with a right hand and a pair of uppercuts backs Bellato up and they clinch against the fence. Fernandez with some knees as Bellato lands to the body. Fernandez lands a right hand as they break. Fernandez works the jab as Bellato lands a left hook to the body. Fernandez lands a solid right hand. Fernandez with some uppercuts in a brief clinch. Bellato lands in close range and drops Fernandez. Bellato starts teeing off on the ground and Fernandez gives up his back. Bellato with tons of shots and it is stopped! Bellato scores an upset in the opener.

Fight Result- Rodolfo Bellato def. Luke Fernandez by TKO (punches) at 2:42 of Round 1

> Light Heavyweights- Rafael Tobias (14-1, 0-0 UFC) vs. Diyar Nurgozhay (10-2, 0-2 UFC)

Nurgozhay lands some straight left hands and a front kick to the body. Tobias swings and misses as Nurgozhay lands to the body. Nurgozhay with a leg kick and lands a left hand followed by a front kick. They trade and Nurgozhay grabs the body and they go to the fence. Nurgozhay lands a groin strike and Tobias is hurt as Nurgozhay is continuing to land and Herb Dean calls a stop to call timeout for the groin shot. They return to action and Nurgozhay lands a combination. Nurgozhay with a leg kick. Tobias lands a leg kick. Nurgozhay with a left hand. Nurgozhay lands to the body. Tobias with a high kick. Tobias lands a right hand but eats a counter combo from Nurgozhay. They trade and Nurgozhay lands a body kick. Tobias lands a right hand. They both connect in close range. Nurgozhay lands a right hand and Tobias lands a right hand. 10-9 Nurgozhay.

Nurgozhay lands a combo and a leg kick. Nurgozhay with a left hand. Nurgozhay lands another left hand. Nurgozhay with a leg kick followed by a left hand. Tobias isn’t really landing much. Nurgozhay lands a stiff left hand. Tobias grabs a leg but lets go and lands a combo. Tobias looks for a takedown against the fence but Nurgozhay grabs the fence to block it. Tobias is working hard for the takedown but Nurgozhay is defending. They separate. Tobias lands a big right hand and another punch and Nurgozhay is hurt. Tobias scores a takedown and gets the mount. Tobias landing left hands from the top. Tobias is looking to set up a choke but Nurgozhay reverses into the guard of Tobias. Nurgozhay landing big shots from the top. Nurgozhay stands and Tobias is just laying on the ground and is ordered up at the end of the round. 10-9 Nurgozhay, 20-18 Nurgozhay.

Nurgozhay lands a pair of body kicks. He lands another as Tobias lands a left hand. Nurgozhay lands a straight left hand to the body. Nurgozhay lands a left hand and a front kick to the body. Nurgozhay with some leg kicks. Nurgozhay lands a combination and a front kick to the body again. Tobias with a body kick. They’re trading in close range but not a lot of action is happening. Tobias forces a clinch and looks for a takedown but Nurgozhay defends. Both land a knee as they battle for position. Tobias gets Nurgozhay down and has the back and jumps on it as they stand. Tobias looks for a leg. 10-9 Nurgozhay, 30-27 Nurgozhay.

Fight Result- Diyar Nurgozhay def. Rafael Tobias by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

> Flyweights- Sumudaerji (18-7, 5-4 UFC) vs. Jesus Aguilar (12-3, 4-2 UFC)

Sumudaerji lands an inside leg kick. Sumudaerji works the jab as Aguilar lands a leg kick. Aguilar with a calf kick as Sumudaerji just misses a jumping knee. Aguilar looks for a takedown against the fence as they clinch. Aguilar with a few short knees against the fence. They break apart. Sumudaerji lands a straight left hand and a low kick that hits the groin of Aguilar and timeout is called. They get back going. Sumudaerji with a pair of kicks. Sumudaerji lands a head kick. Sumudaerji with a wheel kick that Aguilar barely blocks. Aguilar lands a leg kick but eats a combo from Sumudaerji. Sumudaerji lands a high kick. Sumudaerji with a big throw takedown and he starts landing from the top, but they quickly stand. They trade punches. 10-9 Sumudaerji.

They’re both throwing various kicks to start the second but neither really landing. Sumudaerji lands a left hand. Sumudaerji scores a takedown and lands from the top. Aguilar gets Sumudaerji inside his full guard. Sumudaerji lands but they scramble up. Sumudaerji lands an uppercut. Sumudaerji with a front kick then lands a leg kick. Aguilar looks for a takedown but Sumudaerji defends and they trade late. 10-9 Sumudaerji, 20-18 Sumudaerji.

Aguilar throws a flurry but Sumudaerji grabs him and scores a takedown. Sumudaerji tries to keep Aguilar pinned but they get up, though Sumudaerji gets Aguilar back down to the mat. They scramble up and separate. Sumudaerji lands a front kick and a jab as Aguilar lands a right hand. Sumudaerji lands a jumping knee but it allows Aguilar to get a takedown. They get up and Aguilar lands before they break apart. Sumudaerji lands a body kick followed by a solid combination. Aguilar looks for a single leg as they push to the fence. Sumudaerji lands and Aguilar backs off. Sumudaerji with a spin kick to the body. Aguilar lands a left hand. Sumudaerji lands a big left hand and a big flurry late and Aguilar briefly went down near the end. 10-9 Sumudaerji, 30-27 Sumudaerji.

Fight Result- Sumudaerji def. Jesus Aguilar by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Flyweights- Cody Durden (17-9-1, 6-7-1 UFC) vs. Nyamjargal Tumendemberel (9-1, 1-1 UFC)

Both land leg kicks early on. Durden shoots for a takedown but Tumendemberel grabs the neck and looks for a guillotine choke. Durden is able to get out and they get up with Durden still having body control. Tumendemberel is able to force separation. They trade leg kicks and Durden shoots for a takedown. Tumendemberel grabs the neck and uses it to scramble up. Durden back attacking the takedown against the fence. Durden gets another takedown but Tumendemberel gets to sprawl position and they stand. Tumendemberel gets a big takedown and is in the guard of Durden. Durden looking for an armbar from the bottom. Tumendemberel escapes and they get to their feet. Durden gets Tumendemberel back down but eats some hard elbows at the same time. 10-9 Tumendemberel.

Tumendemberel lands a left hand and they trade in close range. Durden looks for a takedown but Tumendemberel scrambles to the top, though Durden attacks the leg. Tumendemberel is able to take the back of Durden and is working for a choke with the body triangle locked on. Durden reverses and is now on top. Tumendemberel is able to reverse and is on top in side control. Tumendemberel with a big elbow and some right hands from the top. Durden attacks the leg but Tumendemberel gets out and they stand. Tumendemberel lands a right hand right into a takedown. Tumendemberel controlling the neck as he lands a short elbow. Durden gives up his back and Tumendemberel lands some punches though one was to the back of the head. They stand and Durden lands a right hand before the bell and Tumendemberel lands a right hand way after the bell. 10-9 Tumendemberel, 20-18 Tumendemberel.

They clinch right up and scramble to the mat and go to the fence with Tumendemberel on top. Tumendemberel gets the back but Durden escapes and jumps on the back of Tumendemberel as they’re on the feet. Tumendemberel shakes Durden off and is on top and lands a pair of elbows. They stand as Tumendemberel lands some knees. Tumendemberel gets the back as they go back to the mat. Tumendemberel with a right hand from the back and he starts looking for a choke. Durden is rolling as Tumendemberel keeps the back, but Durden ends up on top. Durden looks for an arm triangle choke. He has it locked in but Tumendemberel rolls and Durden lets go and is now on the back. Durden lands from the back. Tumendemberel shakes Durden off and lands a right hand and gets into side control. Tumendemberel attacks the neck. Tumendemberel lands after the bell again. 10-9 Durden, 29-28 Tumendemberel.

Fight Result- Nyamjargal Tumendemberel def. Cody Durden by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

> Featherweights- Ricky Turcios (12-5, 2-3 UFC) vs. Alberto Montes (10-1, 0-0 UFC)

Turcios lands a leg kick. They trade leg kicks and Turcios looks for a takedown, but Montes defends it as they’re tied up against the fence. They trade knees against the fence before breaking apart. Montes works the jab. Turcios lands a leg kick. They trade in close range. Turcios pushes Montes against the fence. They break apart and Montes lands an elbow. Montes lands a combination then a knee as they tie up for a moment. They trade combinations. Montes lands an uppercut followed by two solid right hands. Turcios gets the clinch against the fence. Montes lands a knee to the body. They break apart and both land punches. Montes grabs the neck as they sprawl. Montes with a knee to the body as they stand. Montes lands a body kick followed by a right hand and another front kick to the body. 10-9 Montes.

They trade and Turcios looks for a takedown. Montes grabs the neck and locks in an anaconda choke. It is in deep and Turcios goes out! What a finish from Montes!

Fight Result- Alberto Montes def. Ricky Turcios by submission (D’Arce choke) at :40 of Round 2

> Middleweights- Donte Johnson (7-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Cody Brundage (11-8-1 1 NC, 5-7-1 1 NC UFC)

Brundage gets a takedown as Johnson went to land to start. Brundage pushes it to the fence from the top. Brundage is just holding on at the moment. Johnson with short shots from the bottom as Brundage isn’t doing much on top. Brundage with a few left hands from the top. Johnson scrambles and they get to their feet. Johnson lands some kicks. Brundage lands a right hand. He lands another. They trade punches. Johnson with a combo as Brundage lands a jab. Johnson lands a pair of right hands. 10-9 Brundage.

Johnson lands a little. Brundage shoots for a takedown but Johnson sprawls and grabs the neck. They’re just laying on the mat in sprawl position. Johnson looks to transition as Brundage just stays on his knees. Brundage attacks the leg and gets Johnson down and takes the back. Brundage lands two right hands from the back. Johnson tries to stand with Brundage on his back. Brundage attacks an arm. Johnson gets out and lands big shots from the top. Brundage gives up his back and is covering up as Johnson lands. Johnson has the neck and lands some right hands. Johnson continues to control the neck and land punches. Johnson stands and backs off to let Brundage up. Timeout is called for an eye poke by Johnson. They get back going and Johnson lands. 10-9 Johnson, 19-19.

Brundage shoots for a takedown but Johnson sprawls and grabs the neck. Johnson lets go and they stand. Johnson working the jab. Johnson lands a pair of leg kicks. Brundage lands a right hand. Brundage with a leg kick. Johnson lands a left hook. Brundage lands a pair of jabs. They trade left hands. Johnson lands a left hand. Brundage still mainly working the jab. Brundage lands a leg kick. Brundage with a stiff jab. Johnson cracks Brundage with a right hand and Brundage looks for a takedown. Brundage lets go and Johnson is pressing forward and lands a left hand. Brundage looks for a takedown but Johnson sprawls. They get back up. They both throw at the end. 10-9 Johnson, 29-28 Johnson.

Fight Result- Donte Johnson def. Cody Brundage by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

> Bantamweights- Cody Garbrandt (14-7, 9-7 UFC) vs. Xiao Long (27-10, 1-2 UFC)

Garbrandt lands a combination. Long lands a pair of leg kicks then a head kick. Garbrandt looks to set up a takedown and lands a knee. Garbrandt with a left hand. Long lands a body kick. Garbrandt ducks under a punch and gets the underhooks against the fence. Garbrandt lands an elbow and Long goes to a knee but gets right up. Garbrandt lands a body kick. Garbrandt with a spinning elbow. Long lands a pair of leg kicks. Garbrandt with a leg kick. Long lands a head kick. Garbrandt gets a brief takedown and has the back as they get to their feet. They break apart and Garbrandt lands an elbow on the break. Garbrandt with a quick combo. 10-9 Long.

They trade leg kicks. They tie up as both look for a takedown but they end up separating. Garbrandt with a front kick to the body. Long still working mainly leg kicks. Garbrandt lands a right hand. Long with a right hand and a body kick. Long presses forward with some punches and a body kick. Long with a leg kick that trips Garbrandt up. They clinch along the fence but quickly break apart. Long with a body kick. Long with a head kick that Garbrandt blocks. Long lands a right hand. Garbrandt lands a knee. A clash of heads sends Long down for a moment near the end of the round but he gets up. 10-9 Long, 20-18 Long.

Garbrandt lands a leg kick. Long lands a groin kick and timeout is called. They resume and Long lands another groin strike, this one worse than the last one, and timeout is called again. Garbrandt was puking into a bucket during timeout but he is going to continue. Long has a point taken away and they get back going. Garbrandt rushes out with a flying knee. They clinch against the fence. Long with a pair of knees and one landed to the groin again. Timeout is called and Long has another point taken away. They get back to action. Garbrandt lands a right hand. Garbrandt with a quick combo but not much is happening. Garbrandt with another quick combo. They briefly clinch and Garbrandt lands a knee. Long with a head kick. Long lands a knee to the head. Garbrandt lands a knee as they separate. Long gets a late takedown and ends the fight on top. 9-8 Garbrandt due to the point deductions, 28-27 Long.

Fight Result- Cody Garbrandt def. Xiao Long by unanimous decision (28-27, 28-27, 28-27)

MAIN CARD | 9 PM ET/6 PM PT

> Middleweights- #13 Gregory Rodrigues (18-6, 9-3 UFC) vs. #15 Brunno Ferreira (15-2, 6-2 UFC)

Nothing has happened in the first minute. Ferreira lands a right hand. Rodrigues lands a massive right hand and Ferreira goes down and is out and it is all over!

Fight Result- Gregory Rodrigues def. Brunno Ferreira by knockout (punch) at 1:47 of Round 1

> Lightweights- Drew Dober (28-15 1 NC, 14-11 1 NC UFC) vs. Michael Johnson (24-19, 16-15 UFC)

Johnson lands a leg kick then a left hand. Johnson with a combination and Dober backs up due to it. Dober lands a leg kick. Johnson with an inside leg kick. Dober connects with a left hand. Johnson lands a big left hand. They trade in close range. Johnson lands a leg kick. Dober lands a right hook. Dober lands a leg kick. Dober with a left hand and a body kick. Johnson lands a leg kick and a left hand. They both land left hands. Johnson lands a solid left hand. Johnson with a leg kick. 10-9 Johnson.

They trade to start the second. Johnson lands a right hand. Dober with a leg kick. Dober lands a body kick. Dober lands a leg kick and Johnson lands a counter right hand. Dober lands a solid left hand as Johnson lands a jab. Dober lands a massive left hand and Johnson goes down and is out cold! What a knockout by Dober!

Fight Result- Drew Dober def. Michael Johnson by TKO (punch) at 1:53 of Round 2

> Bantamweights- #13 Rob Font (22-9, 12-8 UFC) vs. Raul Rosas Jr. (11-1, 5-1 UFC)

They both land leg kicks. Font with a body kick. Font lands a stiff jab. Rosas Jr. lands a leg kick. Rosas Jr. lands a leg kick and spins out of Font grabbing the leg. Rosas Jr. works the jab. Font lands a pair of body shots followed by a right hand. Rosas Jr. scores a takedown. Rosas Jr. with some body shots from the top. They almost posture up but Rosas Jr. keeps it down, though they get back up. Rosas Jr. has back control and drags Font back down, but they stand. Rosas Jr. keeps dragging Font down but they always immediately stand. Rosas Jr. keeps back control as the round ends. 10-9 Rosas Jr..

Rosas Jr. gets a takedown and Font threatens with a triangle choke, but Rosas Jr. escapes and is inside the guard of Font. They scramble up and Rosas Jr. has back control. Rosas Jr. gets Font back down from the back, but Font is able to recover his guard. Rosas Jr. looks to transition to side control. Both land elbows. Font rolls out but Rosas Jr. is able to keep him down. Rosas Jr. sweeps to the half-guard. Rosas Jr. lands from the top. 10-9 Rosas Jr., 20-18 Rosas Jr..

Font lands a right hand. Rosas Jr. scores a takedown and lands some from the top before they stand. Rosas Jr. has back control and drags Font back to the mat. Rosas Jr. gets into the half-guard. They keep getting up and Rosas Jr. keeps dragging it back down and controlling and landing from the top as they go the distance. 10-9 Rosas Jr., 30-27 Rosas Jr..

Fight Result- Raul Rosas Jr. def. Rob Font by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Middleweights- #7 Caio Borralho (17-2 1 NC, 7-1 UFC) vs. #8 Reinier de Ridder (21-3, 4-1 UFC)

Borralho lands a spin kick. Borralho lands some leg kicks. They trade and Borralho lands a right hand and de Ridder slips to the mat but he gets right up. Borralho lands a left hand and then de Ridder lands a groin strike and timeout is called. They get back to action. Borralho lands a leg kick and de Ridder lands a combo. Borralho with a left hand and a leg kick. Borralho lands a solid combination. Both land some solid kicks. de Ridder scores a takedown and has back control as they scramble. They get back up and de Ridder maintains control and gets Borralho back down. Borralho lands an elbow and they get up. 10-9 Borralho.

Borralho lands a leg kick. Borralho lands a left hand. de Ridder grabs Borralho and is looking for a takedown as he has the body lock. de Ridder ends up letting go and they trade punches. Borralho lands a leg kick. de Ridder lands a combination. They both land and clinch at the end. 10-9 de Ridder, 19-19.

de Ridder lands a knee and Borralho is able to score a takedown. Borralho gets the half-guard and both land elbows to the body. They end up getting up after not much action. Both land punches and Borralho lands a leg kick. de Ridder lands a combination. Borralho lands a body shot. They trade late. 10-9 Borralho, 29-28 Borralho.

Fight Result- Caio Borralho def. Reinier de Ridder by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> UFC BMF Championship- C Max Holloway (27-8, 23-8 UFC) vs. #3 LW Charles Oliveira (36-11 1 NC, 24-11 1 NC UFC)

Oliveira lands a pair of leg kicks. Holloway lands a right hand. Holloway with a right hand followed by a jab. Both land combinations. They are throwing big shots and Oliveira gets a takedown. Oliveira lands a knee to the belly and then stands. Oliveira goes back down in side control and lands some elbows. Holloway gives up his back and Oliveira jumps on it as they stand. Oliveira is looking for a choke and it’s on the face. Oliveira is squeezing but lets go as Holloway escapes. Oliveira with left hands. He now lands some elbows to the body. Oliveira looks for the choke again but Holloway escapes. Holloway survives the round. 10-9 Oliveira.

They trade right hands. Holloway with a quick combination. Oliveira lands a body kick and looks for a takedown and gets it. Oliveira gets to top side mount. Oliveira is working for a choke again. Oliveira gets the back and is trying to find an opening for a choke as Holloway is defending. Oliveira lets go and lands some big elbows. Oliveira has the back with the hooks on and lands some hard elbows. Oliveira looks for a choke. Holloway fights it off. The action stalls a little late in the round. Oliveira lands a right hand. 10-8 Oliveira, 20-17 Oliveira.

I don’t know what happened in the first two minutes of round three as the Paramount+ feed completely died, but it came back on with Oliveira on top and looking for the mount. Oliveira working from the half-guard and lands to the body. Holloway is pinned on the bottom and unable to escape. Oliveira lands an elbow. Oliveira lands from the top to end the round. 10-9 Oliveira, 30-26 Oliveira.

Holloway lands a leg kick and a right hand. Holloway having success with his striking. Oliveira shoots for a takedown and has the body lock. Holloway is defending. Oliveira gets Holloway down to the mat. Oliveira gets the mount and lands some big elbows. Holloway is trying to scramble out but gives up his back. Oliveira has the body triangle locked on but not a lot of action is happening. 10-9 Oliveira, 40-35 Oliveira.

They trade and Holloway scores a takedown. Oliveira is trying to sweep out from the bottom as Holloway lands some short punches from the top. They end up back on their feet and Oliveira scores a takedown. Oliveira working from inside the guard of Holloway. Oliveira lands a pair of elbows. Oliveira gets to the half-guard as he’s pressuring from the top. They get to their feet and Oliveira has the back. They both land right hands at the end. 10-9 Oliveira, 50-44 Oliveira.

Fight Result- Charles Oliveira def. Max Holloway by unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) to win the UFC BMF Championship

Daily Update: UFC notes, Logan Paul, weekend lineups

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

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This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • March 9, 2026 Observer Newsletter: More on AEW’s potential future with Paramount, WWE Elimination Chamber review & ratings
  • More on the Paramount purchase of WBD and details of when it goes through, if it goes through and details on how it helps or hurts UFC, AEW and Zuffa Boxing as well as a cost efficiency look at the three properties for 2027 if plans go through as stated.
  • The road to WrestleMania and why Paul Levesque is in a position where it’s impossible for him to do the job people want and impossible for him to fail, business notes on the show, and a look at the Elimination Chamber show, how it did on Netflix, the good and the bad.
  • Preview and updates on AEW Revolution and interest level
  • Odds on upcoming wrestling matches
  • Coverage of the New Japan New Beginning USA show in Trenton with two title changes
  • A look at the Demolition tag team as they go into the WWE Hall of Fame
  • The most detailed look at the ratings of all the pro wrestling TV shows, including demos, competition and comparisons with last year.
  • Johnny TV in the most heated match so far this year with Angel de Oro
  • Why AAA television is so entertaining
  • Stardom Cinderella tournament notes
  • Brothers face off in NOAH jr. tag tournament final
  • New Japan Cup first two days
  • Final night of Fantastica Mania notes
  • Jeff Jarrett documentary
  • Wrestler out of prison starts working on indices this week
  • Real American Freestyle angle
  • Update of the robbery of the Canadian promotion and the Davey Boy Smith Jr. Hall of Fame ring
  • John Laurinaitis wants back in to wrestling
  • 16 Carat Gold weekend in Germany
  • Pro Wrestling Eve has biggest show of its history this week
  • Brodie Lee Jr. first singles match date
  • Steph De Lander talks why she and Mance Warner quit TNA
  • Notes on David Finlay signing with AEW
  • ROH first TV tapings in a studio
  • UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight title updates
  • Lots of new UFC fights
  • Updates on WWE front office news and changes
  • The story behind leaking fast nationals
  • WWE accused of deleting key information in a lawsuit
  • More notes on the WWE deal with Endeavor and how it went down
  • Janel Grant speaks in favor of changing Connecticut law on NDAs
  • Bianca Belair update
  • WWE sends out unchecked email to network subscribers causing a panic
  • Next WWE media deal to be made
  • WWE injury updates
  • Nick Khan sells millions in TKO stock

This Week’s Back Issue

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Friday Update

Image: WWE

— Garrett Gonzales and I will be doing our show later this afternoon covering all the news of the week in the new issue and there is a lot of it. We will also be back talking more news tomorrow night with a big weekend of activity including the all-women’s show tonight, the UFC show tomorrow night, NXT Vengeance Day, AEW Collision, Smackdown and whatever else breaks.

— The lineup for the UFC show on 6/14 at the White House will be announced tomorrow night on the UFC PPV show. White said it will be only a six-fight show but there may be a seventh fight. But six fights will be announced tomorrow.

— Jake Paul’s MVP Promotions announced an all-women’s promotion called MVPW, along with announcing a three-year deal for the promotion with ESPN. The debut show will be 4/5 in London, and it will also air on Sky Sports. It will air on ESPN Unlimited in the U.S. The first ESPN television date will be on 4/17 and Alycia Baumgardner (17-1) vs. Bo Mi Re Shin (19-3-3) for the super featherweight title at the Theater in Madison Square Garden. They also announced a 5/30 show from El Paso headlined by Stephanie Han (12-0) defending the lightweight title against Holly Holm (34-3-3)

— AEW Dynamite on Wednesday did 650,000 viewers with an 0.12 in 18-49 and an 0.20 in 25-54. That tells you how ridiculous the 50-54 number is. I don’t have the number yet but it’s likely around 100,000.

— Today is crazy talk day. Logan Paul and NFL player Le’Veon Bell have agreed to a boxing match with no headgear with no time limit and three-minute rounds, ending only via knockout or someone giving up.
Meanwhile, Dana White and Eddie Hearn are both saying that they are up for a boxing match against the other. White had made a comment about their feud saying they could do a boxing match. Hearn said he would accept. This is the crazy grandstand stuff that Eric Bischoff did in 1998 with Vince McMahon, that McMahon didn’t accept, nor should he have, although McMahon did counter that if they wanted a fight they could do it but not on a WCW show. Of course, that went nowhere. We’ll see where this one goes.

— SmackDown tonight from Portland, OR, features the Drew McIntyre vs. Cody Rhodes WWE title match that theoretically determines who faces Randy Orton at WrestleMania. Rhea Ripley is on the show. There will be a tag team turmoil match to determine who faces the MFTs for the title next week. There are 8,000+ tickets out.

— Hearn, who is now managing Tom Aspinall, noted that he was stunned at how little Aspinall, the UFC heavyweight champion, was making.

— New Japan’s 54th anniversary show was earlier today at Korakuen Hall:
Drilla Moloney & Daiki Nagai b Yuya Uemura & Masatora Yasuda
Great O’Khan & Henare & Francesco Akria & Jakob Austin Young b Hirooki Goto & Oleg Boltin & Toru Yano & Tatsuyua Matsumoto
Zack Sabre Jr. & Ryohei Oiwa b Yuto-Ice & Gedo
Yota Tsuji & Shingo Takagi b Don Fale & Yoshinobu Kanemaru
Ren Narita & Chase Owens & Yujiro Takahashi & Sho & Dick Togo b Satoshi Kojima & Shota Umino & Aaron Wolf & Tatsumi Fujinami & Leona (Fujinami)
Jake Lee b Yoshi-Hashi in the New Japan Cup
Callum Newman b Oskar in the New Japan Cup
Robbie X & Taiji Ishimori b Kosei Fujita & Robble Eagles to win the IWGP jr. tag titles
Douki b Master Wato to retain the IWGP jr. title

— Stardom also had the first day of the Cinderella tournament in Aichi:
Rian b Yuma Mizumori
Aya Sakrua b Fukigen Death
Ranna Yagami b Waka Tsukiyama
Natsupoi b Tabata
Hanako DCOR Yuria Hime
Maki Ioh b Kikyo Furusawa
Saori Anou DCOR Fuwa-Chan
Hana b Momo Kohgo
It’s a single-elimination tournament that runs over the next week. The women in the double count-out matches are both eliminated from the tournament.

— It’s a pretty big weekend but the only show we are doing polls on is NXT Vengeance Day tomorrow night. You can leave a thumbs up, thumbs down, or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match to [email protected]

— CMLL tonight at Arena Mexico has an all-women’s show available as a PPV through Triller at $9.99 or $7.99 if you have a Triller subscription. It will likely be one of the largest crowds for an all-women’s show outside Japan in history. The show starts at 9:30 p.m. Eastern. Based on the advance, it is not going to sell out. It needs just over 9,000 to break the Mexico record and 10,900 to break the North American record.
Catalina & Sanely vs. Garra Negra & Keyra
Maika vs. Dark Silueta
Mina Shirakawa vs. Zeuxis
Megan Bayne vs. Olympia
Princesa Sugehit vs. Marcela vs La Magnifica for the Copa Irma Gonzalez
Kira & Skadi vs. Candela & Metalica for the Mexican national women’s’ tag team titles
Jarochita & Lluvia vs Starlight Kid & Mei Seira for the CMLL women’s tag team titles
Mercedes Mone vs. Persephone for the CMLL women’s title

— The Pro Wrestling Eve show at the Indigo at the O2 Arena in London is Sunday, which will be before the largest crowd to ever witness an all-women’s pro wrestling event in the U.K. with a lot of AEW talent working the show including Willow Nightingale, Kris Statlander and Harley Cameron. Nightingale defending the TBS title against Nina Samuels is now official for the EVE show on Sunday at the Indigo. The show will air on the EVE streaming service.

— The Arman Tsarukyan vs. Georgio Poullas wrestling match for RAF from last Saturday which Tsarukyan won via decision ended in a wild brawl where Tsarukyan threw a number of punches after it was over. Instead of Tsarukyan being punished, they are being booked for a rematch ASAP, meaning on the 3/28 show in Tampa.

— Francis Ngannou and the PFL have parted ways before the expiration of their contract together.

— UFC 326 starts at 5 p.m. Eastern on Paramount Plus from the T Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. It should be noted that from 8-10 p.m. Eastern and 5-7 p.m. Pacific that four fights scheduled as the Johnson fight through the Rodrigues fight, will be airing on CBS. This will be the first time in history that two main card fights from a “numbered” show will be airing on television.
Luke Fernandez (205) vs. Rodolfo Bellato (204.5)
Rafael Tobias (204) vs. Diyar Nurgozhav (205.5)
Sumudaerji (126) vs. Jesus Aguilar (125.5)
Cody Durden (125.5) vs. Nyamjargal Tumedemberel (125.5)
Ricky Turcios (146) vs Alberto Montes (145.5)
Donte Johnson (185.5) vs. Cody Brundagde (185.5)
Cody Garbrandt (136) vs. Xiao Long (135.5)
Gregory Rodrigues (186) vs. Bruno Ferreira (184)
Drew Dober (156) vs. Michael Johnson (155.5)
Rob Font (136) vs. Raul Rosas Jr. (135.5)
Caoi Borralho (186) vs. Reinieer de Ridder (185.5)
Max Holloway (155.5) vs. Charles Oliveria (156)
The Jeong Yeong Lee vs. Gaston Bolanos fight was canceled due to Lee having a weight issue.

— Buff Bagwell was at the TNA tapings last night in Atlanta. He’s on the show that will air next Thursday, and said he would wrestle with TNA. Frankie Kazarian shoved him down. Elijah made the save. Bagwell had his right leg amputated form above the knee. Yoshiaki Yatsu wrestled in that condition and Zach Gowen did as well.

— Nic Nemeth will be on tomorrow’s Memphis Wrestling TV show.

Daily Update: WWE Elimination Chamber fallout, UFC & RAF notes

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Daily Update

Latest News

Latest Audio

Latest YouTube Video

This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

The new issue of the Wrestling Observer Newsletter is up on the site today.

  • A detailed look at the WBD/Paramount/Netflix situation, what the latest decision of WBD to Paramount entails, the keys to why this is happening, business notes, how this affects AEW and can it get approved.
  • A look at the UFC and WWE business in 2025 and in the final quarter of this past year.  We look at the numbers, what they mean, why WWE was more profitable in 2025 than UFC and the key thing that can change that in 2026, Mark Shapiro talks ESPN value to WWE, lots of news about the business of the White House show, UFC fighters upset over pay, why WWE wrestlers are so underpaid but not publicly upset over, and business initiatives going forward
  • The violence in Mexico and tons of wrestling shows canceled this past week
  • We look in depth at the Janel Grant speech from last week, what we learned, what she said, and where everything stands.
  • Update on the build for  WrestleMania, Elimination Chamber, business notes, ticket sales and favorites for the weekend.
  • An updated look at AEW Revolution and business notes
  • The retirement of AJ Styles looked at
  • The most detailed look at  the television ratings from the past week, including comparisons with a year  ago, competition, demos and much more.
  • Notes from Arena Mexico
  • CMLL attempts to break a North  American record next week
  • Cinderalla tournament in Stardom
  • Fantastica Mania notes
  • The life and times of former Olympic wrestler Bobby Douglas, his coaching career, his beating Dan Gable, and two notable pro wrestlers he coached
  • College wrestling sets an attendance mark already this season
  • Who had the most top ten matches of the year  over a career according to Cage match.
  • City builds a bust memorializing top 80s star
  • WrestleMania week schedule
  • Former MMA fighter and pro wrestler running for Governor
  • Robbery of the ring truck for an indie group
  • Ticket sales for upcoming WWE, AEW and TNA shows over the next two months.
  • How many subscribers does Paramount need to make up for UFC expenses
  • More talk on Ronda Rousey vs. Gina Carano
  • Stand & Deliver moves and why
  • When Roman Reigns and Brock Ldesnar are booked for TV in the Mania build
  • Pro wrestler who is active in Japan competes this weekend for the U.S.national team in anther sport
  • Notes on a  new comer to WWE who started this week
  • More notes on value of Dwayne Johnson’s TKO stock

This Week’s Back Issue

FIRST TIME SUBSCRIBERS GET 50% OFF YOUR FIRST MONTH

Sunday Update

Danhausen
Image: WWE (Image credit: WWE)

— Both of our weekend shows are already up on the site. We did our news in review show on Friday with Garrett Gonzales covering Netflix bowing out of the WBD purchase talks, Zuffa Boxing pay vs. UFC & WWE pay, roads to Mania and Revolution. Last night we talked about Elimination Chamber and the follow-up, Friday’s New Japan PPV show, Collision, Ricky Steamboat and more.

— Some interesting notes coming out of the Elimination Chamber. AJ Lee vs. Becky Lynch in a rematch and Jade Cargill vs. Rhea Ripley are on the books for Mania. The men’s WWE title match still has storyline stuff to go. Seth Rollins vs. Logan Paul looks probable but Bron Breakker in the spot would take precedence. Really nothing else was notable.

— From people both there live and in WWE the crowd reactions being lower than expected were more than just a production issue. The Danhausen thing was what it was. He may get over and do well. He may not. The denial that he didn’t get over last night is really something. It was an attempt. It flopped. He’ll be at TV soon, possibly tomorrow, to try again. Before I ever said the Gobbledy Gooker line last night, it was being used quietly backstage. I think it was too much hype and people expecting a bigger star in the spot, as from an idea standpoint, they had clearly worked on the idea. Then again, Vince McMahon thought the Gobbledy Gooker would be a giant hit as well. I think the fact that Danhausen kind of confirmed it beforehand so making a deal out of his getting his AEW deal (while they tried to keep it a secret by hiding him backstage) didn’t help because again, people were expecting something bigger and were already mad at the idea after all that hype that it could be him.

— The gate was one of the biggest non-stadium pro wrestling shows of all-time with the high ticket prices.

— After the Arman Tsarukyan vs. Georgio Poullas wrestling match on last night’s RAF show in Tucson, Tsarkuyan, on top as the match ended, started throwing hard punches on the ground and a bit knee to the body. Tons of people rushed in. Tsarukyan had given Poullas a hard slap during the match but Poullas had been rough with him as well. Still, there was no excuse for what Tsuarkyan did. At this point neither RAF nor the UFC have commented. RAF may have been happy given it gave them a lot of pub, but they still need to make it clear such a thing can never happen again. The show did sell out with 3,516 fans. They are looking at doing Henry Cejudo vs. Merab Dvalishvili soon after Cejudo beat Urijah Faber in last night’s main event. Big difference between a late 30s Olympic gold medalist vs. late 40s guy who didn’t ever make the top eight in the NCAA tournament

— Khamzat Chimaev said last night that he wants into RAF.

— Alex Pereira has vacated the UFC light heavyweight title to move to heavyweight, where he is expected to challenge for the title. The champion is Tom Aspinal, and there’s no way he’s fighting soon, so it looks like Pereira will face Jon Jones or Cyril Gane on the 6/1 show.

— The boots that Hulk Hogan wore in his WrestleMania I match where he teamed with Mr. T vs. Roddy Piper & Paul Orndorff were sold in auction last night for $1,037,000, the first piece of pro wrestling merchandise ever to top seven figures. Logan Paul said that he sayed up until 2 a.m. wanting to get them but bowed out when the price topped $1,021,000.

— Those in Germany and Japan have been told that starting on 4/1, the PLE shows move to Netflix in both countries.

— The Peacock contract with WWE for NXT PLEs ends at the end of March. We’re not sure what service that will move to. Peacock will remain in the WWE business only for the four Saturday Night’s Main Event shows per year.

— I have not seen Friday’s Arena Mexico show yet but in edited highlight form they sure made Angel de Oro’s hair match win over Johnny Consejo look great. So I can say there were a lot of great moves and excellent heat and a big, but not sold out crowd. Last night’s show at Arena Coliseo did sell out (ten weeks in a row) to see Consejo in his first match without his hair in a three-way with Angel and Esfinge. As great as great matches, Hechicero vs. Mascara Dorada on Thursday at Korakuen Hall, Yota Tsuji vs. Andrade, El Phantasmo vs Konosuke Takeshita and Athena vs. Syuri from Friday’s New Japan show in Trenton were great. Andrade vs. Tomohiro Ishii on Collision was a great one as well.

— We’re looking for your thoughts from Elimination Chamber last night as well as the Friday night New Beginning show from New Japan in Trenton, NJ, thumbs up, thumbs down or thumbs in the middle along with a best and worst match form each show to [email protected]

— Elimination Chamber was No. 7 among television shows on Netflix yesterday and No. 9 among all shows. No. 7 when it doesn’t include the U.S. market is quite good. The UFC show was No. 2 worldwide among TV shows, No. 4 overall on Paramount and No. 5 in the U.S. among TV shows. It was down one percent from last week’s show.

— AEW Collision from early reports was way down from the past few weeks, no surprise since it went head-to-head with Elimination Chamber. So even with AEW increasing of late, it still gets hurt bad when Collision goes against a major WWE main roster event.

— Google searches for Wednesday’s AEW show were down 8.7 percent from the week before. Audience was down 8.5 percent so there was a strong correlation.

— The 6/14 UFC show at the White House was reported by Front Office Sports that at least some of the show would air on CBS.

— The United Wrestling Coalition has its Hall of Fame ceremony on 3/7 at the McKaig-Test-Mullen American Legion Post in New Egypt, NJ at 7. p.m. Those inducted will be Craig Z-List, Rudo the Heel, Sal DeMarco and Mr. Spectrum. They also have a show that night.

— House of Glory on Friday night in Chicago at the Logan Square Auditorium features Shotzi Blackheart vs. Killer Kelly.

— Mike Tenay turns 71 today. He’s legit one of the smartest people when it comes to pro wrestling in the country. Booker T turns 61. Scottyn Riggs turns 59. Davey Richards turns 43. Mark Sterling turns 43. Big E turns 40. Kyle O’Reilly turns 39. Tenille Dashwood/Emma turns 37. Sheik Adnan Al-Kaisee was born on this day in 1939. Ricky Steamboat turned 73 yesterday. Paul Vachon was 85 when he passed away two years ago today. Ann Casey was 82 when she passed away four years ago today.

— One of the greatest matches of all-time and part of one of the greatest series of bouts of all-time, the last Mitsuharu Misawa vs. Kenta Kobashi singles match, took place 23 years ago today. It is ranked by Cage match as the second greatest match of all-time. That singles pairing won match of the year in 1998, 1999 and 2003, making the only match-up in history to win three times.

— West Coast Pro from Friday night in Los Angeles: Aaron Solo b Gabe Roka, Andrew Cass won the Golden Gate titel over champion Alan Angels and G Sharpe in a great match, Royce Isaacs b Stephen Wolf in a hard hitting match, Jiah Jewell b Gary Jay, Alpha Zo b Bret the Threat, Miko Alana b Billie Starkz, Lee Moriarty b Adrian Quest in a great technical match, Johnnie Robbie retained thee women’s title over Laynie Luck, Strarboy Charlie & Titus Alexander b Danny Orion & Shimbashi to keep the tag titles, Vinne Massaro b LaBron Kozone to retain the world title. (thanks to Chris Campol)

— West Coast Pro announced 4/16 in Las Vegas at 7 pm. with Johnnie Robbie vs. Mio Momono for the women’s title.

— Harley Cameron is wrestling at tonight’s Boca Raton Championship Wrestling show in a Battle Royal that includes Aleah James, Leva Bates, Lacy Lane, Deonna Purrazzo and Renee Michelle.

— Danger Zone Wrestling on Friday night at Queen Bees in San Diego.

— Freelance Wrestling on Friday night at the Logan Square Auditorium in Chicago before about 350 fans saw Devon Monroe over Charles Mason in what we were told was a great match, (thanks to Lance LeVine).

May 12, 2008 Observer Newsletter: WWE Q1 financials, UFC’s potential future, the best wrestling city, the Steiner math promo

Posted on by F4W Staff

In the latest retro Wrestling Observer Newsletter to be published in our archives, we go back to May 12, 2008.

In that issue, Dave Meltzer delved into WWE financials from the first quarter of the year and speculated on the future of UFC — both of which make for interesting reading considering where the companies are today under TKO.

Dave also opined on what the best wrestling city was and why he felt it was Madison Square Garden.

Also of note: this was the week Scott Steiner delivered his famous math promo in TNA.

Click here to read (sub needed)

UFC Fight Night 268 live results: Brandon Moreno vs. Lone’er Kavanagh

Posted on by Ryan Frederick

The Octagon touches down in Mexico this weekend as the UFC closes out the month of February on Paramount+ with UFC Fight Night 268, taking place at Arena CDMX in Mexico City.

The main event is a five-round bout in the flyweight division as former UFC Flyweight Champion Brandon Moreno takes on Lone’er Kavanagh. Moreno is looking to get back into the win column following a loss to Tatsuro Taira in December. Kavanagh, who is in his first main event as a short-notice replacement for Asu Almabayev, is looking to bounce back from his first career loss, suffered in August.

The co-main event is a bantamweight battle between former title challenger Marlon Vera and David Martinez, winner of nine straight fights. Also on the main card is a lightweight bout between Daniel Zellhuber and King Green; a flyweight bout pitting Edgar Chairez against Felipe Bunes; and bantamweight action with Santiago Luna taking on Angel Pacheco.

PRELIMS | 5 PM ET/2 PM PT

> Middleweights- Damian Pinas (8-1, 0-0 UFC) vs. Wes Schultz (8-2, 0-0 UFC)

They trade leg kicks to start as they feel each other out. Pinas lands a hard leg kick and Schultz shoots for a takedown, but Pinas defends and lands a right hand on the break. Pinas then drops Schultz with a combination and lands from the top, but Schultz is able to scramble back up and looks for a takedown against the fence. Schultz has the body lock and tries to drag Pinas down, but Pinas ends up on top and lands a pair of big elbows. Schultz is trying to find a leg but eats body shots from Pinas. They get to their feet and Pinas lands an uppercut. Schultz stumbles and looks for a takedown, but Pinas escapes. Pinas drops Schultz once again with a one-two combination and it is all over! Debut knockout win for Pinas!

Fight Result- Damian Pinas def. Wes Schultz by TKO (punches) at 2:30 of Round 1

> Featherweights- Erik Silva (9-3, 0-2 UFC) vs. Francis Marshall (8-3, 2-3 UFC)

Silva lands a spinning wheel kick and then a leg kick to start. They both land kicks before a timeout for an eye poke by Marshall. They get back going and Marshall looks for a takedown. Silva grabs the neck for a choke, but Marshall escapes and gets Silva fully down. Marshall is working for an arm-triangle choke as he’s trying to pass guard. Silva defends from the bottom and Marshall gets full mount. Silva gives up his back and Marshall locks in a rear-naked choke and Silva taps! Marshall gets back into the win column.

Fight Result- Francis Marshall def. Erik Silva by submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:29 of Round 1

> 130-pound Women’s Catchweights- Regina Tarin (7-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Ernesta Kareckaite (6-1-1, 1-1 UFC)

They both come out swinging as they are trading. Tarin lands a big combination and Kareckaite is wobbled. Tarin continues to land and lands a left hook. Kareckaite lands a solid right hand. Tarin lands an uppercut but Kareckaite counters with a right hand. Tarin with a combination ending with a right hook. They trade heavy shots in close range. Kareckaite lands a solid right hand and they clinch up. Both land knees and Tarin lands some elbows before they separate. They trade right hands. Both land punches and Kareckaite pushes it against the fence. They break apart. Tarin lands a combo. They clinch up at the end. 10-9 Tarin.

Kareckaite lands a leg kick and a right hand. Kareckaite with another right hand. Tarin lands a few kicks. Kareckaite with a right hand. They tie up and Kareckaite lands an elbow as they break. Kareckaite pressing forward and both land. Kareckaite lands inside the pocket and Tarin is throwing a lot but not connecting as much. Tarin lands some uppercuts in the clinch before landing a knee. Kareckaite has the double underhooks. Tarin lands a knee to the body as they separate. Kareckaite with a right hand as Tarin lands a combo. Tarin lands a right hand and they tie back up. They break apart and Kareckaite lands a high kick. Kareckaite with a right hand. Tarin lands a straight right hand and then a combo ending with a kick. Kareckaite lands a body kick. Tarin with a combo ending with a solid right hand. Kareckaite looks for a takedown and gets Tarin down with seconds to go. 10-9 Tarin, 20-18 Tarin.

They come out trading before Tarin grabs the back. Tarin drags it down as Kareckaite was trying to grab the fence. They stand and Tarin still has the back, but Kareckaite spins to the front and lands a knee before they separate. Kareckaite with a leg kick. Tarin lands a combination in close range. Tarin with a big combination and Kareckaite fires back with a flurry. Tarin landed an uppercut in there and they tie up. They break apart and fire punches at each other and also clash heads. Kareckaite lands a right hand. Tarin with a right hand. Tarin looks for a takedown but Kareckaite sprawls. They clinch and Tarin lands a pair of knees. They break apart. Tarin lands a right hand. Tarin with some uppercuts in the clinch and lands some knees. They come out swinging at the end as both land. Fun fight. 10-9 Tarin, 30-27 Tarin.

Fight Result- Regina Tarin def. Ernesta Kareckaite by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)

> Featherweights- Douglas Silva de Andrade (29-6 1 NC, 7-6 UFC) vs. Javier Reyes (22-5, 0-0 UFC)

Reyes lands a leg kick. Silva with a calf kick. Silva lands a big right hand and Reyes goes to a knee. They grab each other, which allows Reyes to get back to his feet. Silva lands a left hook. Silva with a flurry and lands a knee to the body. Silva with a spin kick and an overhand right. Silva with a leg kick. They trade and Reyes drops Silva with a right hand. Reyes starts landing from the top. Silva gives up his back and Reyes is landing lots of shots. Reyes with some elbows. They get to their feet. Reyes has the back and drags Silva down. Reyes is looking for a rear-naked choke. Reyes gets to side control and lands an elbow before Silva gets him inside his guard. Reyes with a pair of hammerfists as he passes guard. Reyes has the back and flattens Silva out and is landing lots of shots and gets the stoppage with just seconds to go! What a finish from Reyes!

Fight Result- Javier Reyes def. Douglas Silva de Andrade by TKO (punches) at 4:59 of Round 1

> Bantamweights- Cristian Quinonez (18-5, 1-2 UFC) vs. Kris Moutinho (14-7, 0-3 UFC)

Quinonez lands a right hand and immediately gets the body lock, but Moutinho fights it off as they separate. Quinonez lands a right hand. Quinonez with a right hand to the body as Moutinho lands a left hand. They trade and Quinonez gets the back and slams Moutinho to the mat. They stand and Quinonez gets it back down and has body control as they stand. Quinonez has the back on the mat looking for the hooks, but Moutinho fights out of it and they stand. Quinonez lands a right hand then a jab. Timeout is called for an eye poke by Quinonez. They get back to action. Quinonez works the jab. He’s still landing it and Moutinho’s nose is busted open a little. Quinonez lands a body kick. 10-9 Quinonez.

Moutinho rushes out and lands a combo and they tie up but separate. Quinonez scores a takedown against the fence. Mouthinho is posting up as Quinonez keeps body control. They stand and Quinonez has the back and trips Moutinho down. They stand again, but Quinonez drags it back down and briefly gets the mount before going to side control. Moutinho gives up his back and Quinonez lands. They stand and Quinonez has the back as Moutinho grabs the fence. Quinonez has the back and looks for a rear-naked choke. It’s on the chin and Quinonez lets go but has the hooks on. Quinonez looks for the choke again. He lets go to land punches. Moutinho is able to get Quinonez into his guard. They stand and Quinonez lands the jab. Quinonez with a right hand. 10-9 Quinonez, 20-18 Quinonez.

Quinonez working the jab to start the third and lands a right hand. Moutinho rushes in but eats the jab from Quinonez. Quinonez lands a right hand. Quinonez looks for a single leg and a takedown. Quinonez is able to finish the takedown. Quinonez works from the side and gets into the half-guard of Moutinho. Quinonez with an elbow from the top. Moutinho is attacking the leg from the bottom. He looks for a heel hook. Quinonez escapes and lands from the top. Quinonez stands and lands a right hand. They scramble up and break apart. 10-9 Quinonez, 30-27 Quinonez.

Fight Result- Cristian Quinonez def. Kris Moutinho by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Women’s Bantamweights- #7 Ailin Perez (12-2, 5-1 UFC) vs. #8 Macy Chiasson (10-5, 8-5 UFC)

Perez scores a takedown and lands from the top. Chiasson looks for a leg as Perez tries to roll out. Chiasson attacks a heel hook. Perez tries to stand but Chiasson keeps it down and has the back and gets the hooks in. Chiasson has the body triangle locked on from the back. Chiasson lands some elbows from the back. Chiasson with a series of left hands as Perez is trying to get to her feet. Chiasson with more left hands from the back. Chiasson scrambles and Perez ends up on top but they quickly stand. Perez gets a takedown. Perez lands a pair of left hands. 10-9 Chiasson.

Chiasson lands a left hand and both look for a takedown, but both also defend. Perez lands a body kick. Perez lands a leg kick followed by a right hand. Perez scores a takedown and has side control as he lands an elbow to the body. They are stood up by the referee in an awful stand up. Chiasson pushes it against the fence and lands a knee. Chiasson tries for a takedown but Perez ends up on top. They get to their feet as Perez has body control. Perez drags it down but they stand, and Perez trips it back down. Perez with a right hand from the top. 10-9 Perez, 19-19.

Chiasson slips on a kick and Perez gets the body lock as she stands. Perez gets into the half guard of Chiasson. Perez landing shots from the top as Chiasson isn’t doing much on bottom. A lot of the action has stalled out. They scramble and Perez jumps on the back. Perez lands and attacks the neck. They get to their feet and trade knees after being tied up. Chiasson gets the back late. 10-9 Perez, 29-28 Perez.

Fight Result- Ailin Perez def. Macy Chiasson by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Middleweights- Ryan Gandra (8-1, 0-0 UFC) vs. Jose Daniel Medina (11-6, 0-3 UFC)

Gandra lands a left hand. Gandra lands a flurry against the fence. Gandra lands a knee followed by a combo. Gandra with some big shots and Medina goes to the mat and it is all over! Gandra with the big finish.

Fight Result- Ryan Gandra def. Jose Daniel Medina by TKO (punches) at :41 of Round 1

MAIN CARD | 8 PM ET/5 PM PT

> Bantamweights- Santiago Luna (7-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Angel Pacheco (7-3, 0-1 UFC)

Pacheco with a quick combo. Pacheco works the jab. Luna lands a series of punches inside the pocket. Luna lands a combo to the body followed by a series of knees. Luna with a combo against the fence and scores a takedown, but lets Pacheco up. Luna has the clinch and lands against the fence before they separate. Pacheco lands an uppercut. Luna lands a right hand then a left hook. Luna lands a body kick followed by a flurry of punches. Luna gets a takedown and is controlling on the mat. They scramble up and Luna lands a head kick. Pacheco lands but falls to his back. 10-9 Luna.

Luna lands a flurry against the fence and a body kick. They break to the center and Luna works the jab. Luna shoots for a takedown and has the back as he drags Pacheco down. Luna gets into the guard of Pacheco and lands some hammerfists to the body. They get to their feet and trade punches. Luna lands a solid combo inside the pocket. Luna with a combo to the body and a left hook. Luna backs Pacheco up with a right hand. Luna with a big combo against the fence and Pacheco is hurt. Luna capitalizes but gets the back of Pacheco. Luna gets a big takedown and is inside the guard of Pacheco. Luna with some elbows as Pacheco scrambles up. Pacheco with an uppercut and Luna lands a right hand. They have a heavy exchange. 10-9 Luna, 20-18 Luna.

Both working the jab to start the third before Luna pushes it against the fence. They break apart. Pacheco with an uppercut. Luna with a right hand and grabs the clinch to land a knee before letting go of Pacheco. They trade right hands. Luna mixes a flurry to the head and body. Luna scores a takedown. Pacheco is able to force it back to the feet. Luna lands a combo and they clinch. Luna pushes it against the fence. Luna has the body lock. They separate and Luna lands a combo. Luna grabs the neck and drops down for a guillotine choke. Pacheco is able to fight out of it but Luna lands some elbows from the bottom. They get to their feet. Luna lands to the body. They trade at the end. 10-9 Luna, 30-27 Luna.

Fight Result- Santiago Luna def. Angel Pacheco by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Flyweights- Imanol Rodriguez (6-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Kevin Borjas (10-4, 1-3 UFC)

Rodriguez lands some leg kicks to start. Rodriguez with a stiff calf kick. Borjas drops Rodriguez with a counter left hand and starts rushing in and landing as Rodriguez is trying to run away. Borjas with some punches and a knee but Rodriguez is able to score a big takedown. Borjas tries to scramble from the bottom but Rodriguez gets into the half-guard. Rodriguez landing from the top. Rodriguez with some elbows. Rodriguez with more shots from the top and they scramble up late. 10-9 Borjas.

Borjas lands a leg kick. Rodriguez with a pair of leg kicks. Rodriguez with a left hand. Rodriguez lands a quick flurry and follows it with a combination. They trade and timeout is called for an eye poke by Rodriguez. They return to action and Rodriguez is pressing forward and mixes to the head and body. Rodriguez shoots for a takedown, but Borjas defends. Rodriguez lands a right hand. Rodriguez looks for a takedown but abandons it and lands a series of punches. Rodriguez lands a heavy left hand and lands another big punch. Borjas lands a right hand. Rodriguez with a spinning elbow. Rodriguez with a big flurry and Borjas goes to his butt and a big flurry of shots by Rodriguez end it.

Fight Result- Imanol Rodriguez def. Kevin Borjas by TKO (punches) at 4:21 of Round 2

> Flyweights- Edgar Chairez (12-6 1 NC, 2-2 1 NC UFC) vs. Felipe Bunes (14-8, 1-2 UFC)

Chairez lands a leg kick. Chairez works the jab as Bunes lands a leg kick. Chairez with a hard leg kick. They clinch up and Bunes has the back against the fence. Bunes jumps on the back and has the body triangle locked on. Bunes lands some elbows to the body and shoulder of Chairez. Bunes lands a right hand and looks for a choke but Chairez defends. Bunes still attacking the body as Chairez just can’t do much with Bunes on his back. Bunes ends the round in the position. 10-9 Bunes.

Bunes with some early leg kicks. Bunes is landing with more volume. Chairez lands a leg kick. Chairez with a lead left hook and lands a right hand to the body. Chairez with the jab and follows with a right hand. Bunes lands a solid right hand. Chairez with a right hand. Chairez with a spinning back fist. Chairez lands a right hand. Bunes with a jab. They trade inside the pocket. Chairez with a jab. Bunes lands a jab followed by a combination. Chairez with a right hand. Bunes with a kick right to the groin of Chairez and timeout is called. They get back going and Chairez lands late. 10-9 Chairez, 19-19.

They trade and then Bunes scores a takedown. Chairez lands an elbow from the bottom. Chairez pushes Bunes off and they scramble up. Chairez is pressuring and working the jab and lands an uppercut followed by a combination. Chairez landing to the body. Chairez with a leg kick. Chairez lands a right hand. Bunes with a front kick to the body. They trade jabs. Bunes with a high kick. Chairez is pressing forward and Bunes circles away. Bunes lands a combination. Bunes with a left hook. Chairez lands a spinning wheel kick and lands a combination late. 10-9 Chairez, 29-28 Chairez.

Fight Result- Edgar Chairez def. Felipe Bunes by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

> Lightweights- Daniel Zellhuber (15-3, 3-3 UFC) vs. King Green (33-17-1 1 NC, 14-12-1 1 NC UFC)

Green lands a leg kick. Zellhuber stumbles throwing a punch and Green lands a knee to the body. Zellhuber lands a kick and Green scores a takedown and takes the back as they scramble up and Zellhuber escapes. Green lands a left hand. Green with a combination. Green lands to the body. Green gets a takedown but Zellhuber rolls through and they stand with Green landing a knee as they separate. Green lands a left hand. Green with a pair of leg kicks. Green lands a right hand. Zellhuber is missing on a lot of what he is throwing. They trade right hands and Green connects solidly. Green with a spin kick. Green slaps Zellhuber. Zellhuber connects to the body. 10-9 Green.

Zellhuber quickly comes forward. Zellhuber with a high kick. Green scores a takedown and is in side control. Zellhuber looks for a buggy choke. Green is using his arm to pressure Zellhuber. Green gets out and lands a few elbows and a pair of knees to the body. Zellhuber attacks the choke again. They scramble up and Green has back control. Green looks for a takedown against the fence but they separate. Green lands a right hand and a leg kick. Green with a jab followed by a combination. Green with another combination. Green lands a right hand. Green with a combo. Green rocks Zellhuber with a right hand. Green lands a left hand and Zellhuber looked badly stunned. Zellhuber falls down and Green is landing lots of punches and it is stopped! What a finish by Green!

Fight Result- King Green def. Daniel Zellhuber by TKO (punches) at 4:55 of Round 2

> Bantamweights- #9 Marlon Vera (23-11-1, 15-10 UFC) vs. #10 David Martinez (13-1, 2-0 UFC)

Martinez with a body kick. They trade some leg kicks and Martinez lands a right hand. Martinez lands a leg kick. Martinez with a calf kick. Martinez lands a right hand. Vera with a jab but Martinez lands a counter right hand followed by another right hand. Martinez lands a fast combination. Vera has been unable to land much. Vera throws a kick and Martinez sweeps for a takedown and ends up inside the guard of Vera. Martinez with some ground and pound late. 10-9 Martinez.

Martinez with some body kicks early. Martinez lands a combination. Vera with a left hand, one of the few punches he’s actually been able to land. Martinez lands to the body. Martinez with a right hand. Martinez with a high kick followed by a right hand. Martinez lands another solid right hand. Martinez lands a combination. Martinez with a combination. Vera lands a head kick but Martinez grabs the leg and trips Vera to the mat and gets inside of Vera’s guard. Martinez lands from the top and they stand. Vera with a left hook to the body. Martinez lands a leg kick. Vera with a high kick. 10-9 Martinez, 20-18 Martinez.

Vera with a quick combo and a high kick. Martinez lands a left to the body and a right hand to the head. Martinez with a hard leg kick. They trade but the pace is slowing down as Vera is closing the distance more. Martinez with a combination. They almost clinch but Martinez is able to separate and they trade. Vera lands a jab. Martinez lands to the body. They tie up for a moment but nothing happens as they break. Vera lands to the body and Martinez lands a right hand. Vera lands a combination. They tie up against the fence but quickly break. They trade jabs. Vera with a left hand to the body. Vera lands more to the body and Martinez circles away. Vera with a knee to the body. Vera lands a combo. Vera lands a left hand as Martinez is gassed and circling away. Martinez lands a right hand. 10-9 Vera, 29-28 Martinez.

Fight Result- David Martinez def. Marlon Vera by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Flyweights- #6 Brandon Moreno (23-9-2, 11-6-2 UFC) vs. Lone’er Kavanagh (9-1, 2-1 UFC)

Moreno with a left hook. Moreno works the jab. Kavanagh with a front kick. Moreno rushes in and Kavanagh lands a left hand. Kavanagh with a calf kick. Moreno with a right hand and lands to the body. Kavanagh lands some more calf kicks. Kavanagh with a head kick. Moreno lands an overhand right. Moreno connects with a left hand. Kavanagh lands a body kick. Moreno lands a left hook and follows it with a right hand. Moreno lands a leg kick. Kavanagh lands a left hand. Kavanagh with another calf kick. 10-9 Kavanagh.

Moreno lands a right hand. Kavanagh lands a leg kick and Moreno trips to the mat but quickly gets up. Kavanagh lands a few more kicks. Kavanagh lands an upkick to the body. Moreno lands a left hand and works the jab. They trade inside the pocket. Moreno lands a combo. Moreno with a leg kick. Kavanagh landing some big punches and has Moreno in trouble. Kavanagh landing and Moreno slips. Kavanagh backs off a little. Kavanagh with a jab and a leg kick. Kavanagh with a combo and a calf kick. Moreno working the jab. Moreno connects with a combination. 10-9 Kavanagh, 20-18 Kavanagh.

Moreno starts the round by landing a combination. They trade punches. Moreno lands a right hand. Kavanagh with a leg kick. Moreno landing slightly more to start this round. Moreno swings big and Kavanagh lands a left hand. They trade leg kicks. Moreno looks for a takedown as he pushes Kavanagh to the fence. Moreno has back control against the fence. Moreno with knees to the legs of Kavanagh. They separate and return to the center. Moreno lands a nice combo. Kavanagh with a high kick. Moreno lands a right hand. Kavanagh with a leg kick as Moreno lands a combo. Moreno pushes it to the fence and lands some knees along the fence. 10-9 Moreno, 29-28 Kavanagh.

Both working the jab and Moreno lands a left hand. Kavanagh with a leg kick. Moreno shoots for the takedown against the fence. Moreno with some short knees. Moreno continues to pressure against the fence and lands some more knees. They separate. Kavanagh lands a heavy leg kick followed by another. Moreno with a lunging combo. Kavanagh lands a body kick. Moreno looks for a takedown against the fence. Kavanagh lands as they break. 10-9 Kavanagh, 39-37 Kavanagh.

Kavanagh lands a calf kick. Moreno shoots for a takedown and pushes it against the fence. Moreno lands some short punches. Moreno with some knees to the legs of Kavanagh against the fence. They are separated by Herb Dean. Kavanagh lands a leg kick. Kavanagh with a high kick. Moreno pushes it to the fence looking to drag Kavanagh down. Moreno lands some knees. Moreno is trying hard to get Kavanagh down but Kavanagh is defending. Moreno takes the back but Kavanagh is able to spin out of trouble. Kavanagh lands as they separate. Moreno lands a right hand. Moreno lands a high kick. Kavanagh lands a combination and a calf kick. Moreno with a right hand. Moreno pushes Kavanagh against the fence. They break. 10-9 Kavanagh, 49-46 Kavanagh.

Fight Result- Lone’er Kavanagh def. Brandon Moreno by unanimous decision (49-46, 48-47, 48-47)

Daily Update: Shows in Mexico canceled due to violence, UFC fallout

Posted on by Dave Meltzer

Daily Update

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This Week’s Wrestling Observer Newsletter

  • Elimination Chamber and WrestleMania updates. Update on ticket sales to both shows as well as AEW Revolution and explanations of why and current interest level in tickets.
  • Notes on the giant gates WWE drew for WrestleMania last year and John Cena’s retirement.
  • How much Mania tickets have increased in recent years
  • Odds on this week shows
  • Gina Carano vs. Ronda Rousey and a history of how women’s MMA overcame so many obstacles due to those two. We look at what each did, their background, the story behind the 2014 fight that never happened and why this fight is happening, as well as addressing very serious questions regarding the fight.
  • A look at nostalgia fights and different ways to do them and how they work or don’t work
  • A look at the life and career of the Great Mephisto, one of the most creative minds in wrestling as a wrestler and booker of the 60s and 70s, including his heyday in San Francisco and Australia and stories about his confrontations with Roy Shire, copying from and teaming with The Sheik, Booking WCW in Australia, and a life that start as a street hustler in the depression to facing Hulk Hogan in his first match ever in Northern California.
  • The most detailed look at the television ratings over the past week, with comparisons, Nielsen and Netflix flaws, Olympics and more.
  • Major change in CMLL rules and thoughts about it
  • This past week in CMLL including a hot Friday night sold out show with Mistico vs. Templario
  • Mistico talks Observer awards
  • Saya Kamitani update
  • FantasticaMania first night
  • Cain Velasquez update
  • Notes on the death of Brett Wolverton and Kerwin Silfies
  • Mick Foley television series
  • Longest lasting pro wrestling ring announcer
  • Eve sets UK record
  • Tag team holds titles in Europe & Japan at the same time
  • TNA No Surrender notes
  • More on mainstream coverage of Brody King
  • More on WBD sale
  • Report that Trump will kill current deal
  • AEW in Australia notes
  • Sean Strickland is an idiot
  • Dana White talks boxing
  • Gable Steveson fights again and update
  • Janel Grant lawsuit update
  • Another WWE European tour and PLE show
  • Bad Bunny wrestling update

This Week’s Back Issue

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Sunday Update

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— I’ll be back tonight for a show. It’ll be either with Bryan or Garrett that I guess is to be determined by schedule.

— The shooting of El Mencho (famous Mexican gang leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes), one of the most powerful cartel members (leader of the CING group), has rocked the country. Mass violence has broken out in many parts of Mexico. A ton of wrestling shows have been canceled and more will be. Everyone is concerned and people are afraid to go out in several different states in that country. There is an unwritten rule that gangs don’t do violence in Mexico City because the tourism business is so big and if they did, that would kill the business and hurt the economy for everyone. But outside of Mexico City, shows are being canceled left and right. I expect some stuff to be made official in CMLL in the next 24 hours.

Lots of people in places like Jalisco and Michoakan are afraid to leave their homes. Schools in Jalisco and Nayarit are closed tomorrow. The Puerto Vallarta government is strongly urging residents and visitors to stay indoors and avoid non-essential travel. Public transportation services are temporarily suspended in that city. Drivers are advised to avoid the roadways. Businesses are asked to temporarily close and hotels are advising guests not to leave the premises. I’ve had people suggest that the wrestling business in Mexico is going to take a hit from this for some time to come.

— On Tuesday, a lot of the CW stations around the U.S. will be pre-empting NXT for the State of the Union address. I expect when the rating comes out it’ll include those stations so the rating will be artificially very high and will have to be adjusted later.

— The plan right now is for Friday’s Arena Mexico show to be headlined by Angel de Oro vs. Johnny Consejo (Johnny TV) in a hair vs. hair match.

— Thanks for all the nice comments on the Great Mephisto article and the Ronda Rousey & Gina Carano article in the current issue.

— Sean Strickland beat Anthony Hernandez in yesterday’s UFC main event. Dana White blamed the media for asking questions to Strickland which led to him saying stupid misogynistic and racist stuff. Then he complained about fighter pay. I mean, Zuffa signing Connor Benn to a one-fight deal that has been reported for $15 million has made many in the UFC take notice. Strickland after the show said, “You want to see the last American in the sport go and F*** (Khamzat Chimaev) up. I’ll bring a ‘ f***ing goat and he’ll get distracted.” At that point UFC cut his mic off.

— Dana White, when talking about the Benn signing, said, “Is there a bigger pussy than Eddie Hearn (Benn’s promoter). This guy’s supposed to be your friend, you’re f***ing crying? He made more money. He’s going to make more money, and he had the right to match it. He could have matched it.” White’s line on the other major boxing promoters is, “We’re literally beating up babies.”

— Take Turki’s checkbook away and this reverses in no time flat.

— White refused to say anything negative on the Rousey vs. Carano fight, saying they talked about this since last year but it didn’t work out, but said he was happy for Rousey, and happy for both of them. Rousey said in their talks she was offered the highest PPV bonus package to date, but when the deal with Paramountwas signed, they wouldn’t give them a guarantee at the level of what she perceived they’d have made for PPV and they got the deal from MVP Promotions. That indicates UFC won’t try and block the fight.

— Wrestler Nicole Lucero, real name Lincoolth Hernadnez-Lucero, was taken into ICE custody on 2/11. She is from Colombia and has lived in the U.S. for nine years. She and her husband were working on updating their immigration status. Her attorney said she entered the U.S. legally at the age of 15 and has been undergoing the asylum application process with the rest of her family when she was detaind.

— There was WWE on TV tonight with CW airing the A&E Bio on Steve Austin in primetime and ESPN airing an edited version of the 2026 Royal Rumble show also in prime time. For those on the West Coast, it’s airing shortly.

— The name Dorian Van Dux that WWE trademarked last week is for Mike D Vecchio, meaning he’ll be starting immintely on NXT. He’s been working house shows.

— Countdown to AEW Revolution airs Saturday night on TNT at 10 p.m. right after Collision.

— Steve Corino wrestled this weekend for PWF.

— Kushida reportedly became the first Japanese wrestler to wrestle in Alaska yesterday and the first to be given a piledriver on the snow. At least that’s what’s being claimed. This took place for the 907 Wrestling promotion.

— Raw tomorrow has added Maxxine Dupri vs. Nattie to the AJ Styles tribute, the return of Brock Lesnar and Chamber qualifiers with Jey Uso vs. Bronson Reed vs. Original Grande Americano and Raquel Rodriguez vs. Iyo Sky vs. Kairi Sane.

— AEW Dynamite for Wednesday has only announced Jon Moxley vs. Clon, Brody King vs. Mark Davis and Orange Cassidy vs. Gabe Kidd. They will also finalize stips for MJF vs. Adam Page’s PPV match.

— Congrats to Bruce Buffer who celebrated 30 years as UFC ring announcer last night in Houston.

— WWE is looking at blacking out all public airings of Elimination Chamber on Saturday because the show hasn’t sold out. In the end, it will be a full house, but this is likely not to be the best P.R.

  • — FantasticaMania today in Osaka:
  • El Hijo de Stuka Jr. & Shoma Kato b Tiger Mask & Tatsuya Matsumoto
  • Yujiro Takahashi & Sho & Yoshinobu Kanemaru b Ultimo Guerrero & Satoshi Kojima & Okumura
  • Philip Marlowe Jr. (Yota Tsuiji) & Titan & Shingo Takagi & Bone Soldier Jr. (Taiji Ishimori) & Daiki Nagai b Stigma & El Desperado & Ryusuke Taguchi & MasterWAto & Masatora Yasuda
  • Templario vs. Soberano Jr. vs. Hechicero went to a 10:00 draw
  • Averno & Maganus b Atlantis & Atlantis Jr. in the 2026 tag team tournament semifinal. Averno pinned Atlantis Jr., which sets up Atlantis Jr. defending the historica light heavyweight title against Averno on Thursday night at Korakuen Hall
  • Mistico & Mascara & Dorada b Futuro & Valiente Jr. in the other semifinal. People have been raving about this one.

— On the Google searches for the weekend, nothing from pro wrestling had any traction this weekend. Yesterday’s UFC show had 215,000 searches which is a strong Fight Night number. The show was the No. 2 television show and No. 4 show overall on Paramount yesterday and up six percent in viewers from the show two weeks ago.

— Ratings for AEW on Wednesday and TNA on Thursday should be out tomorrow.

— For best matches of the weekend, I saw some of Friday’s Josh Alexander vs. Esfinge match and what I saw was excellent and super heated. AEW Collision was unusually good in that the action in every match but the Megan Bayne squash was good, and really most bouts were great. As for in-ring wrestling, it was a hell of a television show. Alexander vs. Claudio Castagnoli was uniquely good in a different way from most matches nowadays because it was built around creative stuff. I guess the Young Bucks matches usually are as well. FTR vs. Rascalz was exactly what I’d expect prior to the surprise finish, which immediately puts the Rascalz in the title picture. The other bout I heard raves about was the Osaka match today with Misitco & Mascara Dorada vs. Futuro & Valiente Jr. I figured that to be great given Futuro & Valiente Jr. don’t get main events in Mexico. Also mentioned to me was the Yuki Ueno vs. Kaisei Takechi main event of the DDT show.

— Sean Brady vs. Joaquin Buckley will be the main event of the 4/25 UFC show at the Apex. Renato Moicano vs. Chris Duncan will headline the 4/4 show at the Apex.

— Jailton Almeida was contacted by MVP Promotions to face Junior Dos Santos on the Rousey vs. Carano undercard on 5/16. But he turned it down to sign with ACW out of Russia. Almedia was just cut by UFC even though he was ranked in the top ten at heavyweight, believed to be for having a boring fight.

— House of Glory from Friday night in New York: Midas Black & Jay Lyon b JJP & KB Prime, Gabby Forza b Amira Sahar, Joey Silver b Diamond Virago-DQ, Private Party b Angel Vazquez & Idris Jackson, Andrade El Idolo b Charles Mason-COR, MJF b Zilla Fatu to keep the AEW title. They shot an angle with MJF and Andrade for a possible future AEW title match here that aired on Collision last night.

— On Real Time with Bill Maher on HBO, Bill did a joke saying that at every State of the Union address the President enters the room like he’s Conor McGregor entering the Octagon (thanks to Jeff Beecher)

— The 3/6 Eve show at The Big Penny Social in Walthamstow, London, England with Jamie Hayter vs. Miyu Yamashita has sold out all seats but there is standing room available. The 3/8 show at the Indigo in the O2 Arena is completely sold out.

— Super Calo turned 55 today. The original Mr. Niebla was born on this day 53 years ago. (thanks to Tony Richards)

UFC Fight Night 267 live results: Sean Strickland vs. Anthony Hernandez

Posted on by Ryan Frederick

The Octagon returns to the Lone Star State this weekend with a big middleweight main event as UFC Fight Night: Strickland vs. Hernandez on Paramount+ takes place at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.

The main event is a pivotal bout in the middleweight division as former UFC Middleweight Champion Sean Strickland takes on Anthony Hernandez. Strickland fights for the first time in a year and looks to get back into the win column after a title fight loss to former champion Dricus Du Plessis. Hernandez is the hottest fighter at 185 pounds, entering this fight riding an eight-fight win streak.

In the co-main event, fireworks are expected at 170 pounds as Geoff Neal takes on Uros Medic, both with ten knockout wins in their career. Also on the main card is a featherweight battle between Dan Ige and Melquizael Costa; a battle of ranked heavyweights as Serghei Spivac takes on Ante Delija; and a middleweight fight pitting Zachary Reese against Michel Pereira.

PRELIMS | 5 PM ET/2 PM PT

> Women’s Flyweights- Juliana Miller (4-3, 2-2 UFC) vs. Carli Judice (5-2, 2-1 UFC)

Judice pressing forward and throwing as both connect. Judice lands a body kick and Miller grabs the leg looking for a takedown. Miller has the back and the body lock against the fence. Miller drags it to the mat and has the body triangle locked on. They scramble to their feet and Miller lets go of back control. Judice lands a big elbow as they are clinched up against the fence. Judice is able to break the clinch as Miller lands an uppercut. Judice lands a combination. Judice stuns Miller with a straight left hand and then defends a takedown attempt from Miller. Judice lands some more punches as she’s pressuring. Judice lands a big combination. Miller shoots for a takedown but Judice defends. They trade knees. Judice lands some elbows. 10-9 Judice.

Judice landing to start the second as she connects with some leg kicks and a left hand. Miller lands a counter right hand. Judice with a combo as Miller lands a right hand. Judice lands a combo and Miller is busted up a little. Judice continuing to pour on the volume as she is pressuring. They trade kicks. They clinch and both land elbows as Judice lands a body shot on the break. Judice lands a solid left hand. Judice with a hard body kick. Judice with a flurry though Miller is firing punches back. Miller lands a right hand. Judice lands a pair of uppercuts. They trade and Judice lands a head kick. Judice with a knee to the body and a body kick late. 10-9 Judice, 20-18 Judice.

Judice landing to start the third. Judice lands a pair of left hands followed by a body kick. They clinch against the fence. Miller jumps on the fence to use it to take the back of Judice as they go to the mat. Judice is trying to scramble out as Miller keeps back control. Miller lands from the back and looks for a rear-naked choke. She is on the jaw as Judice is landing back punches. Miller is squeezing but Judice is able to get out and they scramble up. Judice lands a combination. Miller lands a solid right hand. Judice with a front kick to the body. Miller looks for a takedown but Judice slides off. They trade against the fence. They both land left hands. Judice lands a solid left hand. They trade at the end. 10-9 Miller, 29-28 Judice.

Fight Result- Carli Judice def. Juliana Miller by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

> Featherweights- Jordan Leavitt (12-3, 5-3 UFC) vs. Yadier del Valle (10-0, 2-0 UFC)

del Valle tries a front kick but Leavitt grabs the leg and clinches and then drags del Valle down to the mat. They stand with Leavitt keeping body control. Timeout is called as Leavitt landed a groin strike on del Valle. They get back to action and Leavitt scores a takedown. Leavitt working from inside the guard of del Valle as Leavitt slams him back down. Leavitt with a short elbow from the top. Leavitt with more elbows from the top. Leavitt postures up for a moment to land a right hand before getting back into del Valle’s full guard. Leavitt trying to pass guard as he lands from the top. Leavitt with more shots from the top. 10-9 Leavitt.

del Valle is pressing forward and lands a leg kick and a left hand. Leavitt shoots for a takedown but del Valle sprawls away. del Valle with a right hand to the body of Leavitt. Leavitt looks for a takedown but del Valle defends and grabs the neck. Leavitt is able to get into side control before working to the half-guard of del Valle. Leavitt landing from the top as del Valle is trying to use the fence to get to his feet. Leavitt with more shots from the top. del Valle lands an illegal upkick and timeout is called. They restart on the mat. Leavitt looks for a heel hook. 10-9 Leavitt, 20-18 Leavitt.

Leavitt throwing kicks to keep del Valle at a distance. del Valle is cutting the Octagon off from Leavitt but isn’t throwing punches. Leavitt isn’t throwing either. Leavitt goes for a takedown but del Valle lands a knee and ends up on top. Leavitt hanging on with double underhooks on the bottom. del Valle isn’t doing a lot but lands some body shots. Leavitt reverses and ends up on top. Leavitt with some shots from the top and he smacks the butt of del Valle. Leavitt with a pair of elbows from the top. 10-9 Leavitt, 30-27 Leavitt.

Fight Result- Jordan Leavitt def. Yadier del Valle by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Welterweights- Phil Rowe (11-6, 4-4 UFC) vs. Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani (9-2, 0-0 UFC)

They trade leg kicks at the same time. Lebosnoyani lands a leg kick and then a left hand as he looks for a takedown, but Rowe defends. Lebosnoyani backs away and then lands a solid combination. Rowe lands a stiff jab. Rowe lands a leg kick. Rowe working the jab and lands a leg kick. Lebosnoyani is able to score a takedown against the fence. Lebosnoyani attacks the neck. Lebosnoyani with some elbows from the top. Lebosnoyani lands from the top but they scramble up. Lebosnoyani lands against the fence before backing away. They trade left hands and Rowe lands a knee. Lebosnoyani lands a head kick followed by a right hand and then lands to the body. Lebosnoyani with a combo. Both land at the end. 10-9 Lebosnoyani.

Lebosnoyani lands a pair of kicks. Rowe works the jab. Rowe lands a leg kick. Lebosnoyani with a body kick after Rowe lands on the feet. Lebosnoyani with a body kick and a right hand. Lebosnoyani shoots for a takedown but Rowe is defending against the fence. Rowe lands an elbow as he’s defending. Lebosnoyani scores the takedown. They get to their feet and are clinched against the fence. Lebosnoyani lands a right hand as they separate. Rowe lands a leg kick. 10-9 Lebosnoyani, 20-18 Lebosnoyani.

Lebosnoyani lands a right hand. Rowe with a jab and a right hand. Rowe still working the jab but eats a pair of leg kicks from Lebosnoyani. Both work the jab. Rowe with a double jab and a high kick. Lebosnoyani lands a right hand. Rowe throws a knee but Lebosnoyani grabs it and scores a takedown. Lebosnoyani looks for a guillotine choke but lets go to get the mount. They scramble and Lebosnoyani remains on top. Rowe tries to scramble but Lebosnoyani keeps attacking the neck and stays on top. They get to their feet. Lebosnoyani lands a right hand. They trade right hands. Rowe with a combination. Rowe lands a big combo. 10-9 Lebosnoyani, 30-27 Lebosnoyani.

Fight Result- Jean-Paul Lebosnoyani def. Phil Rowe by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

> Welterweights- Ramiz Brahimaj (13-5, 5-3 UFC) vs. Punahele Soriano (12-4, 6-4 UFC)

They trade left hands. Soriano lands an uppercut. Brahimaj with a body kick. Soriano with a high kick. Brahimaj lands some counter shots and a high kick. Brahimaj lands a body kick. They clinch and both land dirty boxing before separating. Brahimaj landing with slightly more volume. Brahimaj with a body kick. Brahimaj lands a combination. Brahimaj lands to the body then Soriano lands a series of punches. Brahimaj with another body kick. Soriano lands a straight left hand. Soriano lands a combination. Soriano with a solid left hand. Brahimaj shoots for a takedown and drags it down from the back. Soriano spins to the top and lands to end the round. 10-9 Brahimaj.

Brahimaj looking for a takedown early as they work to the fence. Brahimaj has back control and is trying to drag it down. Soriano goes to one knee. They scramble and Soriano is on top and has control as they stand. Soriano with some knees against the fence and lands an elbow. They are separated. Brahimaj shoots for a takedown but Soriano sprawls to defend. Brahimaj takes the back and gets Soriano down and has the body triangle locked on. Brahimaj gets the mount late but grabs the fence. Close round. 10-9 Soriano, 19-19.

Soriano lands a pair of high kicks. Soriano lands two more kicks and Brahimaj is hurt a little. Soriano lands a combination. Brahimaj looks for a takedown and is able to get one. Brahimaj is holding onto Soriano and not doing anything. Soriano is able to force it to the feet but Brahimaj keeps ahold of the body. Brahimaj looks gassed. They scramble down as both attack the neck and they stand. Soriano with a combo against the fence. Brahimaj goes to his butt and Soriano lands from the top and lands a knee as they stand. Brahimaj attacking the neck on the feet. They go to the mat and Soriano ends up on top and he ends it there. 10-9 Soriano, 29-28 Soriano.

Fight Result- Punahele Soriano def. Ramiz Brahimaj by unanimous decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

> Women’s Bantamweights- #12 Nora Cornolle (9-3, 3-2 UFC) vs. #14 Joselyne Edwards (16-6, 7-4 UFC)

Cornolle lands a solid right hand. Cornolle lands a combination before they clinch. Cornolle with an elbow as they’re up against the fence. Edwards pressuring and lands some knees. Edwards has the body lock and looks for a takedown, but Cornolle defends and lands an elbow followed by some heavy knees against the fence. Edwards reverses and they’re still working against the fence. Cornolle with a pair of hard knees. They separate. They trade combinations. Cornolle with a spinning back fist. They both throw spinning back fists before tying up against the fence. Cornolle with a knee and an elbow. 10-9 Cornolle.

Cornolle lands a leg kick as Edwards is pressing forward. Cornolle with a pair of leg kicks. Edwards is able to score a takedown. Edwards with a pair of left hands from the top as she gets the back of Cornolle. They get to their feet. Edwards slams Cornolle to the mat and is landing heavy shots. Cornolle looked out but the referee let it go. Edwards grabs the back and locks in a rear-naked choke and Cornolle taps! What a finish from Edwards!

Fight Result- Joselyne Edwards def. Nora Cornolle by submission (rear-naked choke) at 2:44 of Round 2

> Flyweights- Alden Coria (11-3 1 NC, 1-0 UFC) vs. Luis Gurule (10-2, 0-2 UFC)

Coria works the jab and they exchange leg kicks. Coria lands a leg kick. Coria with a right hand. Coria works the jab. Gurule lands a right hand. Coria with a pair of left hands. Both are being patient. Gurule lands a combo as he presses Coria up against the fence. Coria reverses position and lands a shoulder strike and a knee to the body before they break apart. Coria works the jab. They trade jabs. Coria with a calf kick. Coria with a knee to the body. 10-9 Coria.

Coria lands a pair of leg kicks. Gurule catches a leg and scores a brief takedown as Coria gets right to his feet. Coria lands a right hand that briefly hurts Gurule. Coria lands a body kick. They clinch against the fence and Coria lands a couple of elbows before they separate. Coria lands an uppercut amidst a flurry of punches landed. Coria with a left hand followed by a head kick. Gurule lands a flurry of punches before they clinch. They separate and Coria lands a knee. Gurule with a right hand. Gurule ducks under a spin attack and gets a slam takedown, but Coria quickly gets to top position. Coria with some elbows from side control. Coria grabbed the neck but let go and landed a pair of elbows. 10-9 Coria, 20-18 Coria.

Coria working the jab as Gurule is pressuring and lands a combo. They tie up against the fence. They separate to the center. Coria lands a combination to the body, but eats a right hand from Gurule. They trade and Coria scores a takedown. Coria has the back as they stand. They separate as Coria lands. Gurule lands a right hand. Coria with an uppercut and Gurule lands a left hand. Coria lands to the body then hurts Gurule with a jab. Coria landing some big shots now. Coria with a pair of left hands and grabs the leg of Gurule. He lets go and lands a body kick. Coria lands a combo. Gurule with a right hand. They trade to end it. 10-9 Coria, 30-27 Coria.

Fight Result- Alden Coria def. Luis Gurule by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

> Flyweights- Ode Osbourne (13-9, 5-7 UFC) vs. Alibi Idiris (10-1, 0-1 UFC)

Idiris shoots for a takedown but Osbourne shakes him off. Idiris lands a right hand and Osbourne goes down for a brief moment. Osbourne lands a combo. Osbourne with a left hand and a body kick. Idiris lands a right hand. Idiris with a leg kick and looks for a takedown but Osbourne defends as they go to the fence. Idiris gets the takedown. Osbourne tries to force it up but Idiris gets back into the full guard. Idiris lands from the top before passing guard. They get to their feet and break apart. Idiris lands a right hand. Osbourne with a combo. Osbourne lands a right hook. Idiris lands an elbow. 10-9 Idiris.

Osbourne lands a right hand and a body kick. Idiris looks for a takedown but Osbourne defends and they break apart. Osbourne lands to the body. Idiris with a leg kick. Osbourne lands a left hand, and then Idiris lands a right hand. Idiris tries to get Osbourne down and almost does as he takes back control. Idiris lands from the back. They get to their feet and separate. Osbourne with a body kick and Idiris lands a counter right hand. Idiris looks for a takedown against the fence. Idiris gets the body lock and gets a takedown. Idiris with some hammerfists from the top. 10-9 Idiris, 20-18 Idiris.

Idiris lands a body kick as Osbourne connects with a right hand. Idiris lands a counter punch and then scores a takedown. He lands from the top before they scramble and Idiris keeps body control, but Osbourne connects with a right hook on separation. Osbourne with a jab. Osbourne shoots for a takedown, but Idiris defends and lands a knee. Idiris with a left hand. Idiris scores a takedown. Osbourne ends up inside the guard of Idiris. Not much happened before they get up. Idiris connects and they clinch. Idiris lands a knee. 10-9 Idiris, 30-27 Idiris.

Fight Result- Alibi Idiris def. Ode Osbourne by unanimous decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)

> Welterweights- Chidi Njokuani (25-11 1 NC, 5-4 UFC) vs. Carlos Leal (22-7, 1-2 UFC)

Njokuani with a series of kicks to start things off. Njokuani with lots of calf kicks early on. Leal lands a combo to the body. Leal with a series of combinations to the head but eats a knee from Njokuani. Leal with an inside leg kick then a flurry of punches. Njokuani with a front kick as they trade elbows then some punches. Leal with a flurry of punches to the head and body. Leal with a solid right hand and Njokuani lands a knee. Leal with a series of punches to the head and body as he lands a big right hand. Njokuani with a pair of kicks and a right hand. Leal lands a right hand. Leal lands a combo as Njokuani lands a body kick. 10-9 Leal.

Njokuani lands some kicks and Leal catches one and pushes it against the fence. Njokuani lands a pair of knees as they separate. Leal lands a right hand and Njokuani stumbles back but recovers. Njokuani lands a body kick. Leal pressing forward and landing punches as Njokuani lands some kicks. Leal pushes it against the fence. Leal has the body lock and gets a brief takedown. Leal still has body control as they stand. Njokuani with a back elbow as Leal lands some short knees. They separate. Njokuani with a body kick. 10-9 Leal, 20-18 Leal.

Njokuani lands a jab but Leal backs him up with a series of punches. Njokuani working the jab. Leal working the jab as well. Njokuani lands a high kick. Leal with some big punches, mixing to the head and body. Njokuani with a leg kick but Leal lands a series of combinations. They trade leg kicks and Leal lands a flurry of shots. Njokuani misses an elbow and Leal lands a combo. Njokuani with a jab. Leal lands a combination. Njokuani with a body kick followed by a jab. Leal lands a right hand. Njokuani lands a leg kick. Leal with a leg kick and a combination. Njokuani with a leg kick that put Leal down on one knee. Njokuani with a pair of kicks. Leal lands a right hand. They trade punches. Njokuani with a head kick. 10-9 Njokuani, 29-28 Leal.

Fight Result- Carlos Leal def. Chidi Njokuani by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

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> Middleweights- Zachary Reese (10-2 1 NC, 4-2 1 NC UFC) vs. Michel Pereira (31-14 2 NC, 9-5 UFC)

Pereira lands a hard body kick. Reese with some leg kicks as Pereira lands a right hand. Pereira lands a right hand that drops Reese to his butt. Reese is throwing upkicks but Pereira backs off and lets him back up. Pereira with a front kick to the body. Reese lands a kick that grazes the cup and timeout is called. Replay looks clean like there was no shot to the cup. They get back to action. Reese with an inside leg kick. Pereira with a front kick. Timeout is called for another groin strike by Reese, and this one fully connected this time. They get back going and trade punches. Reese lands a head kick. Reese misses a spinning attack and Pereira scores a takedown. Both landing on the mat. Pereira lands a pair of knees as they stand. Pereira with a combination. 10-9 Pereira.

Reese with a pair of body kicks as Pereira lands some punches. Pereira lands a knee to the body and Reese briefly goes down but gets up. Pereira lands a right hand followed by a knee. Timeout is called for an eye poke by Reese. They return to action and Reese scores a takedown. They scramble up and Reese has the back but is busted open. They separate. Pereira with a jumping knee to the body. Pereira with a jab as Reese lands a body kick. Reese with a solid left hand. Reese with a flying knee. 10-9 Reese, 19-19.

Reese lands a body kick. Reese with a leg kick. Pereira lands a knee as they briefly clinch. Pereira lands two solid right hands. They are both landing but this is still wide open. Pereira is landing with slightly more volume. Reese lands a left hand. Pereira gets a takedown but Reese attacks the neck. Pereira is able to escape and they get to their feet. They trade big right hands. Pereira lands a knee as they both throw late. Close fight. 10-9 Pereira, 29-28 Pereira.

Fight Result- Michel Pereira def. Zachary Reese by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

> Welterweights- Jacobe Smith (11-0, 2-0 UFC) vs. Josiah Harrell (11-0, 0-0 UFC)

Smith landing some early kicks to the body and legs. Smith with another leg kick. Smith lands a right hand followed by a heavy body kick. Smith scores a takedown and Harrell attacks the leg before they get to their feet. Smith lands a head kick and a left hook. Harrell with a left hand but Smith lands a big counter right hand. Smith scores a takedown. They get right up and Harrell lands a body kick. Smith with a body kick. Harrell scores a takedown but Smith reverses and starts landing big shots. Smith continues to land big shots and Harrell is out cold! What a finish from Smith!

Fight Result- Jacobe Smith def. Josiah Harrell by knockout (punches) at 3:01 of Round 1

> Heavyweights- #7 Serghei Spivac (17-6, 8-6 UFC) vs. #9 Ante Delija (26-7, 1-1 UFC)

They’re both working the jab. Delija lands a quick combination. They trade jabs. Delija lands a left hand. Delija lands a right hand. Spivac with a nice combination. They trade jabs. Delija with a quick combo. Spivac with a left hand as he was backing up. Spivac working the jab. Spivac stumbles Delija a little with a nice combination. Delija lands a right hand. Spivac back working the jab and Delija’s face is busted up. 10-9 Spivac.

Both are working the jab to start the second. Spivac working the jab more. Spivac lands an overhand right in close range. Delija lands a right hand. Spivac lands a right hand and then a left hand before a wild exchange against the fence between the two. Spivac lands a right hand. Delija with some big punches and Spivac is backing away. Delija with some big shots and right hands and uppercuts as Spivac is covering up. They clinch against the fence. Spivac holds Delija against the fence but they break apart before the end of the round. 10-9 Delija, 19-19.

Spivac lands a right hand and a leg kick. Spivac with a stiff jab. Right hand from Spivac and then he lands another one. They trade jabs. Spivac lands a combo. Spivac shoots for a takedown as he pushes Delija against the fence. Spivac drops down and is able to complete the takedown. Delija gives up his back but they end up on their feet. Spivac has back control but Delija is able to spin out of trouble. Spivac with a left hand. They trade jabs. Spivac with a left hook. Delija lands a left hand. Spivac with a late combo. 10-9 Spivac, 29-28 Spivac.

Fight Result- Serghei Spivac def. Ante Delija by unanimous decision (30-27, 29-28, 29-28)

> Featherweights- #14 Dan Ige (19-10, 11-9 UFC) vs. Melquizael Costa (25-7, 6-2 UFC)

They trade leg kicks. Ige gets a brief takedown but they scramble up and clinch against the fence. Ige has the underhooks and looks to get Costa to the mat. Costa is able to get Ige to the mat but they quickly get up and are still clinched. Costa lands a knee. Ige with some foot stomps. Costa with a knee. They separate. Costa with a high kick. Costa with a front kick that briefly hurts Ige. Costa lands another high kick. Costa with more kicks and they briefly clinch before breaking apart. Ige lands a right hand. Costa drops Ige with a spinning kick right to the chin and some follow-up shots end it just before the end of the first! What a finish from Costa!

Fight Result- Melquizael Costa def. Dan Ige by TKO (kick & punches) at 4:56 of Round 1

> Welterweights- #12 Geoff Neal (16-7, 8-5 UFC) vs. Uros Medic (12-3, 6-3 UFC)

They’re trading and feeling each other out early. Medic then tags Neal with a left hand and Neal goes down and is out cold! What a knockout by Medic!

Fight Result- Uros Medic def. Geoff Neal by knockout (punch) at 1:19 of Round 1

> Middleweights- #3 Sean Strickland (29-7, 16-7 UFC) vs. #4 Anthony Hernandez (15-2 1 NC, 9-2 UFC)

Strickland working the jab and teet kick early. Hernandez lands a calf kick. Strickland still working the jab. He continues to work the jab and lands an uppercut. Hernandez with a left hand and a leg kick. Hernandez lands a jab. Strickland lands a solid combination followed by a big right hand. Strickland with an inside leg kick. Hernandez lands a combination and pushes Strickland against the fence. They separate. Strickland back working the jab. Hernandez lands a right hand and Strickland stumbles a little. Hernandez with a late flurry. 10-9 Hernandez.

They’re trading in close range. Hernandez lands a solid right hand as Strickland continues to work the jab. Strickland with a teet kick and Hernandez lands a counter right hand. Strickland working the jab well as Hernandez lands a leg kick. Hernandez lands an uppercut in a brief clinch and Strickland with a knee as they break. Strickland still working the jab. Hernandez is pressing forward but is also eating the jab from Strickland. Strickland lands a combo and Hernandez lands to the body. They clinch but not much happens. Strickland lands a right hand. 10-9 Strickland, 19-19.

Both working the jab. Hernandez lands a right hand. Hernandez lands inside the pocket as Strickland is moving and throwing the jab. They trade inside the pocket before clinching up. They separate and Strickland is hurting Hernandez with shots to the head and body. Hernandez with a right hand but Strickland hurts Hernandez with a knee to the body and then drops Hernandez with a flurry and some more shots from the top gets the stoppage.

Fight Result- Sean Strickland def. Anthony Hernandez by TKO (strikes) at 2:33 of Round 3