Cageside with John Morgan: Recent Episodes
Grind City Media
Cageside with John Morgan is a weekly video podcast that will breakdown and preview everything in the world of Mixed Martial Arts, including hard hitting interviews by some of the biggest stars in the sport. John Morgan is an award winning journalist and is widely regarded as the best MMA insider in the world.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC Fight Night from Qatar, where Arman Tsarukyan and Ian Machado Garry both made claims of why they each should be next in line for a title in their respective divisions. Also, what are the guys thankful for in the past year of working in MMA? All this and more ...
0:00 – Statements made at the top of UFC Qatar1:54 – Ian Machado Garry is undeniable
6:47 – Belal Muhammad kept it close, despite 30-27 scores
11:13 – Does Garry get the next crack at Islam Makhachev?
16:53 – What the heck happened with Garry and Khamzat Chimaev?
20:36 – Arman Tsarukyan dominates Dan Hooker
23:57 – Tsarukyan, Justin Gaethje or Paddy Pimblett?
32:10 – Volkan Oezdemir, Waldo Cortes-Acosta, and UFC Qater’s other big stars
38:26 – MMA Thanksgiving, with Eric and John
49:43 – Is Conor McGregor really coming back now?
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 322 from Madison Square Garden, where Islam Makhachev dominates Jack Della Maddalena to claim the welterweight championship. What’s next for the new champ, and how much does the upcoming fight between Belal Muhammad and Ian Machado Garry play into his plans? What’s next for Valentina Shevchenko, and could a future date with Kayla Harrison be on the horizon? All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview the massive UFC 322 card at Madison Square Garden, where Jack Della Maddalena defends his welterweight title against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Will the added weight hurt or help Makhachev, and where could this fight be won or lost? What are some potential “Fight of the Night” bouts on this card, and what is the Underground Main Event? All this and more ...
0:00 – Was the Gabriel Bonfim vs. Randy Brown stoppage handled correctly?
4:20 – Understanding the challenges officials face
8:21 – Breaking down Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev
17:16 – The influence of Khabib Nurmagomedov
33:43 – Legit women’s superfight on tap with Valentina Shevchenko and Zhang Weili
39:39 – Breaking down the rest of a stacked UFC 322 lineup, including Sean Brady vs. Michael Morales, Pat Sabatini vs. Chepe Mariscal
53:59 – Weekend preview, and looking ahead to 2026
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan unpack everything that unfolded at UFC Fight Night 263, where Steve Garcia shined, but the big story centered around Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Ante Delija. Eric had a front row seat for it all and details the process. The guys also look ahead two weeks to a massive UFC 322 lineup at Madison Square Garden. All that, and more ...
0:00 – Steve Garcia absolute dominates David Onama
5:03 – Outlining a bizarre sequence of events with Cortes-Acosta vs. Delija
7:45 – Mark Smith, Herb Dean got it right – here’s why
15:31 – John McCarthy’y checklist looms large again
18:51 – Eric’s added airtime, and the post-fight briefings
32:30 – Looking ahead to UFC 322 and Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev
38:23 – CFFC well represented at UFC 322
40:39 – Weekend preview, including CFFC 148
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap a disappointing finish to UFC 321. What to do now about the UFC heavyweight division, and when can a Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane rematch get booked? Jon Jones and Alex Pereira agree to fight at the White House via a back-and-forth on X. Will the UFC agree? All this and more ...
0:00 – Jon Jones is the big winner after UFC 321
5:25 – Did Tom Aspinall simply quit after being poked in the eye?
12:40 – The UFC’s heavyweight division is not in a good place
20:23 – Are new gloves the answer to the eye poke issue?
21:58 – Mackenzie Dern is a world champion
24:36 – Tom Aspinall wants to box?
33:38 – Is Conor McGregor really making a comeback?
37:58 – Usman Nurmagomedov to UFC, and the state of the PFL
44:17 – What will ESPN’s coverage of UFC look like next year?
47:25 – Eric puts his foot down when it comes to streaming services
52:36 – Looking at Saturday’s UFC Fight Night 263
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC Vancouver, where Brendan Allen left Reinier de Ridder on the stool heading into round 5. What is next for both men? Referee Dan Miragliotta in a little bit of controversy, but how should it all really have played out? UFC 321 is this weekend. Can Ciryl Gane take Tom Aspinall into the later rounds? All this and more ...
0:00 – Did Dan Miragliotta screw up in Kyle Nelson vs. Matt Frevola?
10:25 – How should Mike Malott vs. Kevin Holland have been handled?
26:04 – Brendan Allen is exactly who we thought he was
37:32 – Will Ciryl Gane be able to take Tom Aspinall into deep waters?
49:44 – Breaking down Virna Jandiroba vs. Mackenze Dern
54:58 – Will Jon Jones play a role at UFC 321?
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down everything that happened at UFC 320 and what it means moving forward. Will Alex Pereira fight Jon Jones at the White House? Will Jiri Prochazka and Carlos Ulberg meet for a vacant light heavyweight title. Plus, who else shined bright at T-Mobile Arena. Meanwhile, Eric might need to relocate to Las Vegas – Power Slap last week, Dana White’s Contender Series this week!! All this and more ...
0:00 – Eric believes Power Slap may be the greatest spectator sport around
9:49 – Alex Pereira absolutely dominates at UFC 320
20:50 – Will “Poatan” face Jon Jones next?
30:05 – Would Conor McGregor accept a co-main event at the White House?
33:18 – Merab Dvalishvili outguns a game Cory Sandhagen
38:05 – Jiri Prochazka is crazy in the best possible way – but what about Carlos Ulberg?
43:33 – Joe Pyfer, Ateba Gautier take big steps forward
48:59 – Previewing UFC Rio and Charles Oliveira vs. Mateusz Gamrot
53:10 – Looking ahead to Dana White’s Contender Series, CFFC 147, and more
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan dive into the upcoming UFC 320 card. What is the path to victory for former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira? Can he control the center of the cage in the rematch, or will Magomed Ankaleav prove once again why he is the king of the 205-pound division. Merab Dvalishvili vs. Cory Sandhagen and Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. preview. All this and more ...
0:00 – CFFC 146 recap
5:53 – Carlos Ulberg earned a title shot at UFC Perth
14:21 – Was the right call made in Neil Magny vs. Jake Matthews?
20:39 – A quick cameo from Ethan McMahon
21:59 – Should Matthews appeal the result?
26:26 – Breaking down Magomed Ankaleav vs. Alex Pereira
46:11 – Can Jiri Prochazka or Khalil Rountree Jr. steal Carlos Ulberg’s spot
51:06 – Just three UFC pay-per-view events left
55:33 – What will we see with Merab Dvalishvili vs. Cory Sandhagen?
1:01:35 – Weekend preview, including CFFC NextGen 2, Power Slap, Dana White’s Contender Series, more
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back on the past two weeks with Noche UFC and UFC Paris. Diego Lopes delivers a “Knockout of the Year” candidate in a barnburner of a fight. Where does Jean Silva go from here, and did the “L” really hurt him? The Fighting Nerds go 0-3 in the past two weeks. Do some minor changes need to be made in training? Plus, John was on hand for Terence Crawford’s massive win over Canelo Alvarez at Allegiant Stadium. All this and more ...
0:00 – An emotional week off
1:55 – Boxing debuts at Allegiant Stadium, and the scene was incredible
8:39 – Diego Lopes and Jean Silva showed what MMA is all about, but did Silva’s stock drop in defeat?
18:27 – What is happening with the Fighting Nerds?
24:51 – Kelvin Gastelum’s great win marred by terrible weight miss
29:17 – What does the future hold for Noche UFC?
32:18 – Final takeaways from Terence Crawford vs. Canelo Alvarez, and what TKO Boxing and UFC ca do in 2026
41:00 – Looking ahead to UFC Perth and Carlos Ulberg vs. Dominick Reyes
48:15 – Counting down to UFC 320 and some big moves in the light heavyweight division
52:01 – Previewing Saturday’s CFFC BJJ 15
56:14 – Looking ahead to CFFC 146 at 4 Bears Casino & Lodge in North Dakota, and what’s going on with Bilal Hasan?
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan are joined by a special guest Dustin “Five” Starr, owner of Memphis Wrestling, to give a little more insight as to how an incident like what unfolded with Raja Jackson could even happen. Will Jackson face criminal charges, and what was the level of the wrestling promotion where this took place? In addition, the guys look back at UFC Shanghai. All this and more.
0:00 – Raja Jackson makes national news in an awful way
4:54 – Dustin “Five” Starr breaks down the Jackson incident from all angles
16:10 – Will Knokx Pro Wrestling be found liable for Jackson’s actions?
28:20 – Eric and John react to Dustin’s breakdown
38:58 – Looking back at UFC Shanghai, including Johnny Walker and Kyle Daukaus
41:50 – What happened to Brian Ortega?
46:46 – Did Marc Goddard handle Taiyilake Nueraji’s illegal knee properly, or is Kiefer Crosbie right to complain?
1:04:24 – Previewing Saturday’s CFFC 145
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 319, where Khamzat Chimaev dominated Dricus Du Plessis over five rounds to become the new middleweight champion of the world. Who is next for the new champ – and why? All this and more ...
0:00 – What to make of Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant win over Dricus Du Plessis
9:00 – Du Plessis was beaten in the basics
15:41 – Eric makes the case for a rematch
25:21 – Making the case for Reinier de Ridder, Anthony Hernandez, Nassourdine Imavov, Caio Borralho – and Bo Nickal?!?
34:27 – Michael “Venom” Page delivers yet again
36:21 – Booking Chimaev’s first title defense
42:52 – Aaron Pico suffers another heart breaking setback, while Lerone Murphy gets a title shot
48:08 – Singing the praises of Carlos Prates and Tim Elliott
49:55 – CFFC champ Eric Nolan steps up against future UFC star Baisangur Susurkaev
53:40 – Eric’s tales from the road in Arkansas, and some breaking Danny Barlow news
1:02:28 – Weekend preview, including UFC Shanghai
On this episode, recorded just before the news of the UFC’s massive new TV deal was announced, Eric McMahon and John Morgan can’t hold back their excitement in anticipation of UFC 319.
Will Khamzat Chimaev be able to get the takedown early or prove he has the cardio to go all five rounds? Or will Dricus Du Plessis be able to sprawl and brawl his way to a defense of his world title? All this and more.
0:00 – Just how good is Anthony Hernandez?
7:45 – Breaking down the Herb Dean point deduction some may have missed
10:36 – The incredible (and scary) “Knockout of the Year” from Elijah Smith
16:03 – Quick highlights from the rest of UFC on ESPN 72
17:09 – Fights don’t get much better than Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev
26:57 – Eric’s breakdown of the UFC 319 headliner
37:08 – Should Chimaev break from his normal approach?
45:36 – Du Plessis win paves the road to Africa for the UFC
50:19 – Don’t sleep on Lerone Murphy vs. Aaron Pico
56:38 – Looking at the rest of UFC 319, and the return of Dana White’s Contender Series
Eric McMahon and John Morgan return to look back at Dustins Poirier’s retirement fight at UFC 318. What could the future look like for Max Holloway at 155 pounds, and is Poirier a UFC Hall of Famer? Looking ahead to UFC 319, and can Dricus Du Plessis prove the oddmakers wrong and successfully defend his title vs Khamzat Chimaev? All this and more.
0:00 – WWE did CM Punk dirty
4:29 – “WWE: Unreal” on Netflix and lessons from professional wrestling
12:13 – Looking back at Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight
18:05 – Does Max Holloway deserve a title shot next?
21:40 – Does Dustin Poirier belong in the UFC Hall of Fame?
27:29 – Looking ahead to Dricus Du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev
40:13 – Breaking down Keith Peterson’s between-rounds stoppage at PFL
53:11 – Highlights from UFC on ESPN 71
55:16 – Looking ahead to UFC on ESPN 72, Dana White’s Contender Series
Marcus Buchecha is widely considered to be one of the greatest Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners of all time, claiming an incredible 13 IBJJF black belt world titles, along with a pair of ADCC World Championships. On Saturday, July 26, Buchecha makes his UFC debut, facing ranked heavyweight Martin Buday in Abi Dhabi.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC on ESPN 70. Was it a bad decision in the Gabriel Bonfim vs. Stephen Thompson co-main event? Derrick Lewis wows the Nashville crowd both with his fight and post-fight antics. Looking ahead to UFC 318 – where do the strengths and weaknesses lie for both men in this highly intriguing retirement fight for Dustin Poirier? All this and more...
0:00 – Eric recounts his UFC Nashville experience
6:12 – First assignment: Valter Walker with the nasty submission
8:21 – Did the judges get it right with Gabriel Bonfim vs. Stephen Thompson?
13:25 – Derrick Lewis, bona fide superstar
16:42 – Breaking down Jason Herzog’s stoppage
26:24 – The greatest post-fight of all time?
31:53 – Quick shout out to Fatima Kline and Lauren Murphy
33:30 – Breaking dwon Max Holloway vs. Dustin Poirier 3
43:22 – How will the crowd react for this incredible main event?
47:20 – What else to look for at UFC 318
49:18 – We told you Jon Jones was going to fight Tom Aspinall at the White House
53:21 – Previewing CFFC 144, featuring CM Punk and Michelle Waterson-Gomez
Louisiana’s own Brendan Allen is excited for the chance to compete at UFC 318, which takes place Saturday, July 19 at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, but he’s not giving local legend Dustin Poirier too much love ahead of his retirement fight in the night’s main event – at least not while “The Diamond” is in the same gym as Allen’s opponent, Marvin Vettori.
Allen discusses the honor of competing in Louisiana, the importance of a victory, a longstanding beef with Vettori, a move to Chicago to train with Belal Muhammad and Valle Flow Striking, and much more while speaking to Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a wild and crazy International Fight Week, headlined by UFC 317. Eric convinces John to adjust his pound-for-pound rankings, where Ilia Topuria reigns supreme. Will a UFC happen at the White House next year? If it does come to fruition, who is big enough to headline that card? Looking ahead to all the amazing UFC cards in the next two months, and Sean Strickland goes full Sean Strickland. All this and more.
0:00 – Epic International Fight Week ends in frustrating fashion – but it was worth it
2:12 – Eric’s experience at Power Slap 13
7:40 – Ilia Topuria is the UFC’s No. 1-ranked pound-for-pound fighter
12:48 – Joshua Van is a star
15:15 – Gregory Rodrigues delivers a vicious KO, and the NSAC explains their process
19:42 – Donald Trump announces the UFC is coming to the White House
23:46 – Who could headline a White House event?
30:23 – Eric will be in action at UFC Nashville
33:44 – Previewing the UFC’s summer schedule – and it looks good!!
41:16 – Sean Strickland and Chris Curtis make headlines at Tuff-N-Uff
51:53 – Eric’s big weekend, and a moment for his family
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan dive deep into UFC 317, where Ilia Topuria takes on Charles Oliveira for the vacant UFC lightweight championship. Will Topuria’s power carry over to lightweight, and can he compete with Oliveira on the ground? Jon Jones retires from MMA, ending any chance with a showdown with Tom Aspinall – at least for now. How much did his new legal troubles impact his decision? All this and more.
0:00 – A brief look back at UFC Baku
2:10 – The odd announcement that Jon Jones has retired
8:21 – Is Jon Jones the Greatest of All-Time?
15:49 – Breaking down Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira
30:20 – Will Alexndre Pantoja roll against Kai Kara-France?
31:16 – What to expect from Beneil Dariush vs. Renato Moicano
35:34 – Brandon Royval vs. Joshua Van is pure fireworks
37:07 – UFC BJJ 1, Power Slap 13, UFC X, and more
43:29 – The sad downward spiral of Pat Miletich
45:59 – The latest on the UFC’s new broadcast deal
53:36 – Frosty beverage preview
Undefeated 2024 PFL women’s flyweight champion “Dangerous” Dakota Ditcheva has quickly become one of the most recognizable faces of the promotion and appears on a path to superstardom. After a brief hiatus, the 26-year-old finisher is set to return to action on Saturday, July 19, where she will take on Sumiko Inaba at the organization’s historic PFL Africa 1 event, which streams live in the United States on the PFL app from Cape Town, South Africa.
Ahead of that matchup, Dakota spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
0:00 – Reliving an incredible 2024 title run
1:52 – “Bro, we’ve actually done it”
2:24 – Shifting from a tournament run to PFL Champions Series
5:10 – Breaking down Sumiko Inaba matchup, and full 2025 plans
6:57 – Becoming a face of PFL MMA
9:38 – Taking inspiration from teammate Kayla Harrison
12:06 – “I’m getting in there the same amount of violence, if not 10 times more”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC on ESPN 69 from Atlanta, where Kamaru Usman showed the world he is still at the top of the welterweight division. What are some potential upcoming fights for the former champion? Wild scene in the Paul Craig vs. Rodolfo Bellato fight. Real or Fake? Was the No Contest the right call? Eric’s experience in the PFL – and did he mess up? All this and more ...
0:00 – Kamaru Usman delivers a vintage performance
8:58 – Gauging Joaquin Buckley’s future
13:39 – Was Rodolfo Bellator faking his injuries?
21:19 – Should Paul Craig have been disqualified?
25:57 – Malcolm Wellmaker is a star in the making
28:00 – Eric breaks down his wild experience at PFL
39:15 – Does the “ref cam” making an official’s job more difficult?
46:29 – Looking ahead to a fun lineup at UFC Baku
51:04 – Eric and John’s plan for International Fight Week
New UFC women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has always wanted a chance to challenger herself against the consensus GOAT – and former teammate – Amanda Nunes. Now that the fight is a reality, Harrison tells Grind City Media’s John Morgan that she’s not just looking to elevate her own status with a win, but to raise the respect level of the women’s game as a whole.
0:00 – ‘It definitely feels like I’m dreaming’
3:02 – ‘Am I am who I say I am?’
6:10 – ‘There’s not really a relationship now’ with Amanda Nunes
10:25 – ‘I believe I’m the greatest fighter on the planet’
11:59 – No timeline for Nunes fight – and no weight class preference
15:32 – Snapping back to reality and realizing the greatest joy in life
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 316 and the dominant performances from Merab Dvalishvili and Kayla Harrison. Is there anyone that can stop “The Machine”? Harrison makes quick work of Juliana Peña and has a mega-fight with Amanda Nunes looming in the distance. How many more times can Harrison make the weight cut? Looking forward to Kamaru Usman vs. Joaquin Buckley – what Usman will we see, and is the big betting line for Buckley fair? All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:22 – Merab Dvalishvili dominated, but Sean O’Malley still looked good
5:42 – Breaking down “The Machine”
15:22 – Just how good is Kayla Harrison?
20:39 – Can Harrison keep making 135 pounds?
23:48 – What went wrong for Patchy Mix?
33:24 – Can Kamaru Usman upset Joaquin Buckley?
41:01 – What fight at CFFC 143 got Eric in trouble at home?
42:26 – Bilal Hasan looks special, and Eric discusses the stoppage
49:07 – Chris Brown wins an interim title and is starting a feud with Kyle Daukaus
53:49 – Eric on PFL duty this week
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview UFC 316, where Merab Dvalishvilli defends his title against “The Suga Show,” Sean O’Malley. Will the wholesale life changes for O’Malley pay dividends in this rematch or will Dvalishvilli’s relentless approach once again be too much? Julianna Peña defends her crown against the highly favored Kayla Harrison. How does this fight play out if Peña survives the first couple of rounds? Also, hear Eric’s wild story from the regional scene this past weekend, and get a quick preview of CFFC 143. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:23 – Eric’s wild adventure in Arkansas
19:25 – A quick rant on the “Unified Rules” of MMA
23:28 – Maycee Barber an incredibly late scratch against Erin Blanchfield
33:26 – Previewing Merab Dvalishvili vs. Sean O’Malley 2
42:49 – Is Julianna Peña being overlooked against Kayla Harrison?
51:24 - Looking at the rest of UFC 316
59:51 – Previewing CFFC 143, and Eric’s incredible Michelle Waterson story
UFC flyweight contender Manel Kape spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan and said he could have chosen to sit on the sidelines and wait for a title shot but instead elected to compete against Brandon Royval at UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas as part of International Fight Week.
Kape explains why his belief in his skills led him to take the fight rather that sit back and wait for the winner.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Moragn react to a dominant Michael Morales over Gilbert Burns at UFC Fight Night 256. Additionally, which side are you taking in the ongoing Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria chatter? Previewing an incredible weekend in Atlantic City with FURY Professional Grappling 13 and CFFC 142. All this and more.
0:00 – Michael Morales is the real deal
7:24 – Welterweight division now looking awfully stacked, so what’s next?
14:22 – Why the UFC Apex is here to stay
27:08 – Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria are still talking - will they fight?
32:44 – Do we need to see Sean Strickland vs. Belal Muhammad?
36:53 – Looking at the opening line for Charles Oliveira vs. Ilia Topuria
43:20 – Breaking down FURY Professional Grappling 13 and CFFC 142
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 315, where Jack Della Maddalena battered and bruised Belal Muhammad. Was something off with Muhammad, or is “JDM” simply that good? Valentina Shevchenko beats the odds and defends her title in impressive fashion. Who’s next for Shevchenko – and can anyone deny Natalia Silva? Jose Aldo calls it a career after a very hard-fought loss to Aiemann Zahabi. All this and more.
Breakout PFL star Paul Hughes has a monumental opportunity in front of him, headlining 2025 PFL Europe 1 in his hometown of Belfast against a dangerous opponent in Bruno Miranda. While Hughes isn’t looking past Miranda, he is considering what a big win should bring, and he believes the only answer is a rematch with reigning Bellator lightweight world champion Usman Nurmagomedov. Ahead of PFL Europe 1, Hughes previewed the matchup and discussed his future plans while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC Des Moines, where Cory Sandhagen destroyed Deiveson Figueiredo’s knee. Did Sandhagen send a big enough message to put him back in the title picture? Bo Nickal suffers his first professional loss – where does he need to improve to be a contender at 185 pounds? Looking ahead and previewing Saturday’s UFC 315. All this and more.
0:00 – Was Bo Nickal exposed at UFC Des Moines?
10:09 – How much did Reinier de Ridder’s size and strenght factor into the result?
16:14 – What is Nickal’s path forward?
24:15 – Cory Sandhagen absolutely dominated Deiveson Figueiredo
29:42 – Breaking down Figueiredo’s crucial mistake
33:24 – Veterans Miesha Tate, Jeremy Stephens come up short in big spots; Kevin MacDonald shines
36:18 – Previewing Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315
44:30 – Is Manon Firot going to dethrone Valentina Shevchenko?
51:14 – Weekend previews, and potential UFC schedule changes?
Manchester Top Team’s Sammy-Jo Luxton outlines a physically and mentally demanding year ahead of her PFL debut while talking to Grind City Media’ John Morgan. The 26-year-old English prospect will make her long-awaited debut for the promotion at PFL Europe 1 on Saturday, May 10, where she takes on Scotland’s Gemma Auld at the SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
0:00 – Outlining a year of loss and a life-threatening illness
4:00 – Making the decision to fight again, and enjoying the support of the PFL
6:18 – Previewing the matchup with Gemma Auld: “I love a scrap”
8:23 – Balancing roles as an MMA prospect and a social media star
11:10 – Mapping out a return to action and a move to strawweight
On this episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC on ESPN 66, where Ian Machado Garry snapped the undefeated streak of the Fighting Nerds when he took out Carlos Prates. Why so much “hate” for Garry? Looking ahead to this weekend’s UFC card in Iowa and what is looked at as Bo Nickal’s toughest fight to date. Also, who gets to stay up at the top of the bantamweight division when Cory Sandhagen takes on Deiveson Figueiredo. All this and more.
0:00 – Why is Ian Machado Garry continuing to fly under the radar?
8:22 – Did Carlos Prates simply fail to get started early?
18:51 – Breaking down Garry’s fifth-round struggles, patient attacks
24:36 – Anthony Smith’s storybook ending denied by Zhang Mingyang
31:55 – Will Bo Nickal be tested Reinier de Ridder at UFC Iowa?
35:40 – What to make of Jeremy Stephens returning to the UFC?
40:05 – Teasing the return of Miesha Tate, a hidden gem in Ryan Loder, more in Iowa
42:17 – What’s at stake in Cory Sandhagen vs. Deiveson Figueiredo?
44:49 – Can Belal Muhammad be the greatest welterweight champion in UFC history?
54:24 – Revealing Eric’s remarkable lawn-care rivalry
UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad previewed his upcoming UFC 315 headliner with Jack Della Maddalena while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan. UFC 315 takes place Saturday, May 10, and streams live on ESPN+ pay-per-view from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
UFC welterweight contender Gilbert Burns spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan and discussed his upcoming main event with Michael Morales at the UFC Apex, the frustration of his current run and how he plans to get back to winning ways, taking inspiration from Dominick Reyes, and much more.
0:00 – Accepting a main event change – and the multiple changes before it
3:06 – More rounds, more money, less taxes all added up to a good decision
5:13 – Breaking down Michael Morales
7:08 – Looking back on a difficult stretch
11:51 – Taking mental inspiration from Dominick Reyes
14:12 – Becoming a dad again!
15:42 – “Show Me The Money”
16:39 – Instagram Threads and the UFC
18:07 – Final predictions for May 17
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a fun night of fights at UFC 314, where Alexander Volkanovski regained his world title in a fun fight with Diego Lopes. Where do both fighters go from here? Paddy Pimblett silences all critics with a dominant performance over Michael Chandler. Top-5 opponent next for Pimblett; does Chandler have anything left in the tank? All this and more.
0:00 – UFC 314 an absolute success – even if Miami could stand to show up a little earlier!
2:32 – Alexander Volkanovski delivers – but was it a blowout?
11:41 – Did Diego Lopes drop the ball?
18:40 – What’s next for Volkanovski?
21:57 – Paddy Pimblett shined, but where does Michael Chandler go from here?
30:25 – Where does Ilia Topuria fit into the lightweight title picture?
32:47 – Jean Silva absolutely delivers against Bryce Mitchell
35:39 – Yair Rodriguez thrills, and Patricio “Pitbull” Freire’s volume failed him
39:49 – Dominick Reyes is top-5 talent
47:19 – Did Mike Beltran handle the Julian Erosa vs. Darren Elkins stoppage properly?
58:06 – Breaking down referee tiers and locker room talks
No. 11-ranked UFC featherweight contender Giga Chikadze spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan ahead of Saturday’s massive UFC 314 event, where the organization’s 145-pound title will be on the line.
Chikadze broke down the big featherweight fights on the card, while also looking ahead to his own matchup with David Onama at UFC Kansas City on April 26.
0:00 – Healing up in Hollywood?
2:59 – Outlining challenges against Arnold Allen
5:14 – Spoiling the hometown love for David Onama
7:56 – Breaking down Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes
9:28 – Welcoming in Patricio “Pitbull” Freire and Aaron Pico
13:00 – Should Ilia Topuria be granted an immediate title shot?
14:24 – Challenges GLORY faces in return to U.S.
16:49 – Beginning a championship journey again
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview an intriguing UFC 314 lineup that is absolutely filled with interesting matchups. Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes compete for the vacant featherweight title. Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett meet in a five-round matchup. Bryce Mitchell vs. Jean Silva in an emotion-filled contest, Yair Rodriguez welcomes Bellator great Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, and more.
0:00 – CFFC General Manager John Morgan talks fight week excitement
3:08 – Laying out the intrigue in the UFC 314 lineup
7:21 – Alexander Volkanovski must be at full strength to beat Diego Lopes
15:52 – Diego Lopes needs to sprint out of the gates
21:31 – Is Volkanovski a deserving betting favorite?
25:50 – Breaking down Michael Chandler vs. Paddy Pimblett
32:08 – The odds are crazy – or maybe they are spot on!
38:33 – Bryce Mitchell is more of a threat to Jean Silva than you might think
50:22 – The Dominick Reyes comeback continues
52:43 – Is Jim Miller really a massive underdog to Chase Hooper?
56:30 – Continuing the legacy of martial arts great David Ferguson
The legendary “Triple C,” Henry Cejudo, spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan to recaps an incredible 2025 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships experience, including a moment for the ages with Wyatt Hendrickson scoring a massive upset over Gable Steveson.
Cejudo, himself an Olympic wrestling gold medalist, also discusses the future of the sport and potential for growth, including a call for the UFC to bring wrestling to the Apex in Las Vegas. He also provides an update on his eye, which is still healing following a fight-ending eye poke from Song Yadong one month ago, and discusses the potential for one more trip to the UFC’s famed octagon before calling it a career.
0:00 – Breaking down Wyatt Hendrickson’s big win: “There’s going to be a movie based on this”
5:18 – Wrestling is “the greatest sport on Earth”
7:09 – A challenge for Dana White: “Let’s get wrestling at the Apex”
11:33 – Breaking down the other big stories from the NCAA Championships
15:45 – Cejudo has a stern warning for Gable Steveson if MMA is on his mind
18:51 – Kevin Jackson’s message: “Legends take care of legends”
20:13 – Cejudo says vision still not back to 100 percent, would like Song Yadong rematch
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan relive the thrilling victory for Wyatt Hendrickson as he took down Gable Steveson in the heavyweight finals at the NCAA Wrestling Championships. Sean Brady takes a giant leap forward towards a title shot with a fourth-round submission over former champ Leon Edwards. Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall is done but not done. All this and more.
0:00 – John Morgan is now CFFC General Manager
4:08 – Wyatt Hendrickson defeats Gable Steveson in one of the most dramatic moments in NCAA wrestling history
10:23 – Daniel Cormier is better at wrestling commentary than he is UFC
16:03 – Sean Brady dominates Leon Edwards in London and nets “panic tap”
25:04 – Did Brady earn a title shot with UFC London win?
27:17 – Leon Edwards’ body language, output quite concerning
30:15 – Was there an injustice in Carlos Ulberg vs. Jan Blachowicz?
34:04 – Kevin Holland has incredible job security, while Molly McCann delivered an emotional sendoff
36:30 – What to make of Dana White’s update on Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall?
42:25 – Brandon Moreno, Steve Erceg are in unique positions in Mexico City
46:19 – Cain Velasquez sentencing expected to be revealed today
52:03 – Eric and John’s summer schedule filling
GLORY Kickboxing CEO Marshall Zelaznik, a longtime UFC exec who was instrumental in the launch of UFC FIGHT PASS, spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan about the latest news involving the surging international promotion.
In addition to the stacked “Last Heavyweight Standing” tournament, the organization has signed a broadcast deal with DAZN, is launching GLORY Underground in association with Jake Paul’s Betr, will return to the United States with a May 1 event in Miami, has started to leak details of GLORY 100 – and that doesn’t even cover it all. Check out Zelaznik outlining the plans for the growing organization, which produced the likes of Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya.
0:00 – Marshall Zelaznik’s “unfinished business” brought him back to GLORY
4:11 – “These fighters are different. Our job is to get it exposed”
9:55 – Breaking down the DAZN deal
11:36 – Partnering with Jake Paul’s BETR for GLORY Underground
14:17 – Comparing GLORY’s path to that of the UFC
15:50 – “Last Heavyweight Standing,” Rico Verhoeven, and more
22:19 – “It does feel like a pretty good moment” for GLORY
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at some odd occurrences ahead of Marvin Vettori’s main event with Roman Dolidze before turning to the business of MMA and looking at the future of pay-per-view in the sport, and discussing where the UFC might end up when the promotion’s latest broadcast deal is announced.
0:00 – Conor McGregor speaking at the White House
5:33 – Yaroslav Amosov victorious at CFFC 140
8:00 – How did Marvin Vettori walk to the cage without his cup?
18:19 – UFC Fight Night 254's standout performances
24:23 – How are pay-per-view buys affecting the UFC and ESPN?
33:55 – Utilizing the UFC Apex moving forward
45:32 – Should the UFC maintain a presence on ESPN?
48:05 – Previewing UFC London
52:27 – Spring break!
Serbian heavyweight striker Rade Opacic recently departed ONE Championship in favor of GLORY Kickboxing, and he’s arrived just in time for the promotion’s “Last Heavyweight Standing,” a yearlong tournament that kicks off on April 5 at Rotterdam Ahoy in the Netherlands. The field starts with 32 of the world’s best heavyweight strikers and will crown a winner at the end of this year.
Ahead of the tournament launch, Opacic spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his decision to join GLORY, his first-round matchup with Nico Horta, the idea of facing names like Rico Verhoeven or Antonio Plazibat – or even Francis Ngannou – and much more.
0:00 – Leaving ONE Championship for GLORY
2:56 – Previewing the matchup with Nico Horta
4:36 – Winning the tournament “would mean everything to me”
6:45 – Expectations for Rico Verhoeven, Antonio Plazibat
9:24 – Following the path of Israel Adesanya and Alex Pereira?
11:26 – How would Francis Ngannou fare in GLORY?
14:50 – “If you guys like violence, we’re giving it”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan both discuss the events that unfolded on Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The two watched UFC 313 from opposite sides of the cage and break down how Magomed Ankalaev was able to claim the UFC light heavyweight title from Alex Pereira. What comes next – and why is it very clearly a rematch? Justin Gaethje did Justin Gaethje things, and it’s time to go ahead and strap a rocket to Mauricio Ruffy and watch him rise. All this and more.
0:00 – Power Slap “the single greatest spectator sport I have ever been a part of”
5:20 – Eric unpacks the greatness of experiencing Alex Pereira’s entrance live
8:47 – Eric’s ready for a victory lap following a stunningly accurate breakdown of Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira
14:59 – Why did “Poatan” look flat?
23:11 – Breaking down the judges’ decision
30:15 – What happens in Ankalaev vs. Pereira 2?
34:11 – There is only one Justin Gaethje – what is his path to a title shot?
45:01 – Mauricio Ruffy is a superstar – who should he fight next?
58:18 – How was Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall impacted from UFC 313?
1:02:01 – Weekend preview, including a special matchup at CFFC 140
With 12 years in the UFC, King Green has seen it all in the octagon, and yet he continues to perform in a way that is 100 percent his own. Ahead of this Saturday’s UFC 313 at T-Mobile Arena, Green spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his journey so far, and what still drives him more than 50 fights into his professional MMA career.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look ahead to the upcoming UFC 313 pay-per-view and the main event of Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev. Where do the advantages lie for each fighter, and what should you look out for early in the fight? There’s a co-main event switch up, with Dan Hooker out and Rafael Fiziev stepping in on short notice to take on Justin Gaethje in a rematch.
Are the oddsmakers right in having Justin Gaethje as the underdog? Why you should also tune in to this card with exciting fights all over. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:48 – Was there controversy in Manel Kape’s win at UFC Fight Night 253?
6:52 – Breaking down the finish between Cody Brundage and Julian Marquez
10:26 – Looking at the rest of UFC Fight Night 253, including Memphis’ own Danny Barlow
13:18 – Can Magomed Ankalaev take the belt from Alex Pereira?
22:42 – The oddsmakers are showing more respect than fans, it seems
30:57 – Confusion over Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev odds
41:37 – Mauricio Ruffy has massive opportunity against King Green
46:40 – Taking a look at other potential fireworks at UFC 313
53:14 – Eric McMahon previews his weekend in Las Vegas, including Power Slap 12
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a wild main event from UFC Seattle. Song Yadong takes a technical decision victory over “Triple C,” Henry Cejudo, in what many are calling a controversial ending to the fight. Was referee Jason Herzog correct in his handling of the situation? Ilia Topuria vacates his title and moves up to lightweight. Will he have to win a fight before challenging Islam Makhachev for the title? All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:50 – Is Song Yadong getting better, or is Henry Cejudo starting to slip?
7:05 – Henry Cejudo did not quit
11:40 – Breaking down Jason Herzog’s handling of the main event
21:20 – Should a point have been taken?
40:34 – Is there a case for a rematch, despite Dana White’s immediate reaction?
44:53 – Laying out the scenario for Ilia Topuria’s lightweight move
54:20 – Anticipation building for UFC 313
57:37 – Everyone’s new favorite fighter: Jean Silva
Longtime Bellator standout Aaron Pico has no desire to compete for PFL, and with his contract complete, he’s calling on PFL founder Donn Davis to grant him his outright release.
Speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan, Pico says his lone interest right now is competing in the UFC, and he’d actually like to debut against No. 13-ranked featherweight Bryce Mitchell – though he’d be more than willing to face champion Ilia Topuria if that’s what the Dana White prefers.
Before he can entertain those offers, Pico said he needs his matching clause waived, a reality that if enforced could see him waiting for another year before he can sign a UFC deal. Pico outlines multiple canceled bookings and a chaotic year following Bellator’s acquisition by the PFL and said he’s no interested in waiting any longer to go fight for the UFC.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview the headliner of UFC Seattle this weekend between Henry Cejudo and Song Yadong. Sean Strickland and Xtreme Couture MMA Coach Eric Nicksick make headlines after comments made by Nicksick on a podcast. Fair or foul? Conor McGregor guarantees he will fight in BKFC and even throws out some names. Is there any chance this will happen? All this and more.
0:00 – Fighters to watch at Attitude MMA, Tuff-N-Uff
8:44 – Insights and observations from Henry Cejudo interview
17:40 – Breaking down Cejudo vs. Song Yadong
32:45 – What to make of Eric Nicksick’s comments on Sean Strickland
40:13 – Did Daniel Cormier get it right?
47:27 – Will Conor McGregor fight in BKFC?
1:00:58 – Weekend preview, including CFFC Match Day and “Dark Side of the Cage”
Former two-division UFC champion and Olympic gold medalist Henry Cejudo previewed his upcoming UFC Fight Night headliner with Song Yadong while speaking to Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
Cejudo discusses the reason he simply couldn’t retire following a 2024 loss to Merab Dvalishvili, how ended paired with an opponent more than a decade younger, what’s fueling him in his final title run, and much more.
Cejudo and Yadong serve as the main event of UFC Fight Night 252, which streams live on ESPN+ on Saturday, February 22, from Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:49 – “My back’s against the wall”
2:39 – Mistakes made in preparing for Merab Dvalishvili
4:19 – “Now, it’s a little more personal”
7:50 – Matching up with Song Yadong
10:32 – Finding motivation in bitterness
12:45 – “He will bend the knee to the appointed king”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 312, where Dricus Du Plessis defended his middleweight title in convincing fashion over the outspoken Sean Strickland. Who is next for Du Plessis, and why is it Khamzat Chimaev? Zhang Weili looks like an unstoppable force in the women’s straweight division as she batters Tatiana Suarez over five rounds. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction, WWE Smackdown, and more
5:01 – Eric was all wrong about Dricus Du Plessis
14:23 – What makes “DDP” so effective?
18:25 – Is there anything else that makes sense outside Khamzat Chimaev?
25:54 – Zhang Weili dominates Tatiana Suarez
34:39 – Is Valentina Shevchenko the fight to make?
39:27 – Looking ahead to Jared Cannonier vs. Gregory Rodrigues, Henry Cejudo vs. Song Yadong
46:25 – CFFC Match Day, Tuff-N-Uff, and American Ninja Warrior
Reigning Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix is in Australia for UFC 312, where his fiancée Tatiana Suarez is challenging Zhang Weili for the strawweight title. Mix discusses her preparation and offers his thoughts on the fight while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
Mix also explains his reasons for wanting a release from the Professional Fighters League, which acquired Bellator MMA but has not yet been able to schedule the promotion’s athletes for fights.
0:00 - Introduction
0:55 – Fight week approach to competing in Australia
2:02 - Breaking down the matchup with Zhang Weili
5:07 – Fighting week nerves? Maybe for Tatiana’s opponent
7:10 – Understanding the request for a PFL release
13:50 - Has there been any discussion with the PFL?
15:47 – Is resolution possible, or is a release the only option?
20:09 – Final UFC 312 prediction
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at this past weekend as Israel Adesanya went down in defeat to Nassourdine Imavov. Where does “Izzy” go from here, and did Imavov set himself up for a title shot? Looking ahead to UFC 312 and Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2. Who has the edge in the rematch, and what are the best paths for victories for each fighters? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 - Introduction
1:44 – Sergei Pavlovich win leaves heavyweight an absolute mess
5:40 - Michael “Venom” Page silences the critics
9:54 – Is Nassourdine Imavov in line for a title shot?
15:42 – Where does Israel Adesanya go from here?
24:45 - How does Khamzat Chimaev factor in at 185 pounds?
35:13 – Breaking down Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2
47:08 – Can Tatiana Suarez take out Zhang Weili?
57:19 – CFFC Match Day, NBA trades, and more
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the “Fight of the Year” candidate of Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes at PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. Was there any controversy in the decision? Additionally, there’s finally an opportunity to talk about the Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Merab Dvalishvilli fight at UFC 311, and the guys brought receipts! All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:26 – Usman Nurmagomedov downs Paul Hughes in perhaps surprisingly competitive fight
9:13 – Was Mike Beltran’s point deduction warranted?
15:09 – Momentum swing in the championship rounds
20:30 – How perception can affect evaluation
24:25 - Eric reveals his intriguing method for scoring fights
29:01 – One word for the PFL: Rematch
33:01 – Vadim Nemkov a future UFC fighter?
35:21 - Revisiting Merab Dvalishvili’s UFC 311 win
45:03 – Renato Moicano shows his character
47:34 - BKFC highlights, and college wrestling controversy
59:54 – Previewing Saturday’s UFC Saudi Arabia
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down the main and co-main at UFC 311. Islam Makhachev is coming in as a huge betting favorite over Arman Tsarukyan, and the guys discuss why they feel this fight is way more competitive.
Will this fight shake out the same way as their first meeting, or will things be different? Merab Dvalishvili looks to defend his title again Umar Nurmagomedov. Will Dvalishvili be able to weaponize his cardio and pace against Nurmagomedov like he has against all his previous opponents? All this and more.
0:00 – Will UFC 311 take place in Los Angeles or Las Vegas?
6:58 – Should Islam Makhachev be such a massive favorite over Arman Tsarukyan?
11:24 – Breaking down the Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan rematch
25:28 – A quick note on Kimbo Slice and “Dark Side of the Cage”
32:02 – High anticipation for Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov
40:07 – Breaking down the Dvalishvili vs. Nurmagomedov matchup
50:21 – Most anticipated matchup outside of the title fights?
59:35 – A quick review of a fantastic UFC Fight Night 249
Combat sports legend and Philadelphia’s own Eddie Alvarez is predicting bad things for opponent Jeremy Stephens when the two meet in the main event of BKFC Knucklemania V on Saturday, January 25 at Wells Fargo Arena in “The City of Brotherly Love” and streaming live on DAZN.
Ahead of that matchup, Alvarez joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, including the surprisingly tense buildup between the two veterans, and to discuss what the future holds for “The Underground King.”
0:00 – Thrill of fighting in Philadelphia for the first time since 2010
1:59 – Is the Wells Fargo Arena’s gate record in jeopardy
4:07 – “The fans are going to want me to end him”
7:01 – Establishing the Newtown Performance Institute
9:53 – Retirement looming? “I don’t think there’s going to be a time where my name’s not in the hat.”
10:34 – BKFC’s recipe for success
13:17 – Putting it on for Philadelphia
SOCIAL CLIP: Eddie Alvarez breaks down what it takes for a startup to make it in the combat sports world:
11:04 - 11:53 (starting with “A lot of the beginning” and ending on “well-known and broke”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan start 2025 by surveying the MMA landscape and seeing what the future might hold for the unified PFL and Bellator brands, the upstart Global Fight League, and of course the industry powerhouse that is the UFC.
Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes looks like it might just be one of the best fights lined up for any promotion in January. Can the PFL and Bellator build momentuem from a matchup that is stirring old feelings from both Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor?
Before that, UFC 311 features a couple of incredible title fights. Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev appear to be on a collision course, and 2025 could be loaded with big moments. All this and more.
0:00 – Eric waxes poetic on Arizona State’s Cam Skattebo
4:17 – Is Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev the right fight to make?
11:43 – Some honest concern ahead of the Global Fight League debut
26:59 – PFL announces a rule change for 2025 – was it a good one?
34:37 – Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes reignites Dagestan-Ireland rivalry
47:41 – Looking ahead to UFC 311 and Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan 2
52:22 – Laying out the groundwork for 2025
Veteran combat sports analyst and commentator Robin Black joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to help preview the upcoming series “Dark Side of the Cage,” which premieres January 8 on VICE TV, as well to discuss the continued growth of Karate Combat, Black’s own personal media channels, and more.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:20 – The evolution of Karate Combat, a combat sports alternative
3:02 – The impact of “The Pit” on both striking and grappling
5:38 – Tracking down stories for “Dark Side of the Cage,” including the “definitive” Nick Diaz interview
9:32 – Balancing the “dark side” of MMA while also penning a love letter
13:35 – The future of VICE Sports
16:09 – Living the dream in combat sports
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take advantage of the brief UFC off-season to discuss the matchups they’d most like to see booked in 2025.Who should Jon Jones fight next? What’s going on with middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis? Is there a spot on the UFC roster for Patricio “Pitbull” Freire? Islam Makhachev, Belal Muhammad, Kayla Harrison, Justin Gaethje – all this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Zippy, the extra special elf
3:33 – The flyweight matchup that already got made: Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape
9:46 – Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall or Alex Pereira
20:45 – Is Francis Ngannou a viable wildcard option?
28:19 – Does Dricus Du Plessis have a better option than Sean Strickland?
34:21 – What happens if Patricio “Pitbull” Freire gets his wish?
37:04 – Max Holloway and another BMF
44:08 – Lining up the biggest women’s fight to be made right now with Kayla Harrison
50:35 – A light heavyweight banger that makes a whole lot of sense
53:31 – Rapid fire: Leon Edwards vs. Ian Machado Garry, Sean O’Malley vs. Petr Yan 2
55:27 – Justin Gaethje at welterweight? Belal Muhammad facing a teammate?
1:00:18 – FURY Professional Grappling 12 and “Dark Side of the Cage”
UFC flyweight contender Manel Kape spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan to recap his incredible UFC Tampa win over Bruno Silva, his thoughts on his new spot at No. 6 in the official UFC rankings update, his conversations with UFC CEO Dana White, teases what’s coming next, and more.
0:00 – Was UFC Tampa Manel Kape’s best performance ever?
1:23 – UFC, Dana White “going to give me what I want”
4:20 – Kape rules out trilogy bout with Kai Asakura
5:13 - What in the world is going on with Israel Adesanya?
7:03 – Pay no attention to the rankings – they’ll be changing soon
7:54 – Breaking down Alexandre Pantoja
9:10 – Laying out 2025 and understanding the big picture
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap UFC on ESPN 63 from this past weekend. Joaquin Buckley looked spectacular in his main event vs. Colby Covington – but could Covington have turned it around heading into rounds 4 and 5? What is next for both headliners? Meanwhile, the 41-year-old legend Cub Swanson does it again with a walk-off KO in the co-main event. Is this his last fight? Looking ahead to next year’s first pay-per-view with Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan and Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
2:03 – Did UFC Tampa prove there’s a Colby Covington bias?
9:01 – Eric’s LeBron James story
11:31 – Would Covington’s cut have stopped a fight in Las Vegas?
18:57 – How does the fight play out if it goes past round 3?
24:35 – Is Joaquin Buckley vs. Kamaru Usman the fight to make?
30:43 – Cub Swanson continues to defy the odds
37:54 – Manel Kape with a statement-making victory
40:15 – Looking ahead to UFC 311
52:27 – Launching the Tennessee Martial Arts Hall of Fame
Ahead of her UFC 312 title shot against current champion Zhang Weili, No. 1-ranked strawweight contender Tatiana Suarez joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to discuss the journey she’s faced ahead of this long-awaited title fight, preview the much-anticipated matchup, and discuss her preparation for the event, which takes place Feb. 9 at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia (and airs one day earlier in North America).
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap a fun UFC 310 pay-per-view from Las Vegas. Alexandre Pantoja remains the dominant flyweight champion after beating two-time Rizin FF champion Kai Asakura. What is left for Pantoja at 125 pounds? Shavkat Rakhmonov was heavily tested in a high-level matchup vs. Ian Machado Garry. Even in defeat, Machado Garry should have earned everyone’s respect. Bryce Mitchell does Bryce Mitchell.
All this and more.
0:00 – Iowa dominates at CFFC Match Day
3:41 – Alexandre Pantoja is the best flyweight in the world
6:24 - Could Demetrious Johnson be next for Pantoja?
9:50 – Shavkat Rakhmonov victorious, but Ian Machado Garry proves a lot of people wrong
21:47 – An in-fight uniform change and a disgusting other first to see this past week
26:38 – Was Alexander Volkov robbed against Ciryl Gane? Did Jon Jones prosper?
31:02 – Bryce Mitchell memorable once again
40:55 – Movsar Evloev and Aljamain Sterling put on high-level grappling display. Should Ilia Topuria be worried?
47:02 – Have we seen the last of Anthony Smith?
55:21 – Jamahal Hill has settled nicely into his heel role
58:27 – Up next, UFC Tampa and CFFC 138
Longtime UFC welterweight contender Michael Chiesa admits his fighting career was likely hanging in the balance ahead of his August win over Tony Ferguson, but that’s no longer the case heading into his UFC 310 clash with Max Griffin.
Ahead of Saturday’s event at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Chiesa spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, discuss his continued passion for fighting even as his analyst career continues to thrive, break down a key welterweight matchup between Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry, and more.
0:00 – Finding much-needed consistency in competition
2:53 – Fueling a passion for competition while growing role as an analyst
4:36 – Breaking down the Max Griffin matchup
8:09 – Snowboarding a week out from a UFC fight?
9:15 – Praising the growth of NCAA wrestling on UFC FIGHT PASS
10:26 - Breaking down Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry
12:17 – Expect a busy 2025, with Seattle first on the list of goals
On this episode, Eric McMahon and and John Morgan look back at a spectacular victory for Dakota Dicheva this past weekend for PFL. What is next for this rising superstar?
Plus, it’s UFC 310 fight week, and the guys are more excited than most about this sneaky good card. Flyweight champ Alexandre Pantoja may not be fighting a household name, but that doesn’t mean that Kai Asakura doesn’t have one-punch knockout power. Shavkat Rakhmonov is a big favorite heading into his matchup with Ian Machado Garry, but Eric and John will outline why this fight is sitting more around a pick ’em for them. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:32 – With PFL title win, Dakota Ditcheva is promotion’s new star – now what?
9:24 – What does the PFL need to do to gain traction?
16:07 – UFC 310 is a sneaky good card, and Alexandre Pantoja vs. Kai Asakura could be fireworks
25:26 – Bryce Mitchell vs. Kron Gracie being overlooked?
27:08 – Breaking down Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Ian Machado Garry – is it a tremendously bad matchup for one of the competitors?
40:24 – Outlining an exciting UFC 310 lineup from top to bottom, including a No. 1 contender fight at heavyweight
43:15 – Dominick Reyes with a massive opportunity against Anthony Smith
49:01 – Sneaky good card caps off busy week in Las Vegas, and for John Morgan
52:43 – A fighter had WHAT in his pocket?!?
UFC flyweight contender “Custom Made” Cody Durden is fired up ahead of his UFC 310 clash with Joshua Van and told Grind City Media’s John Morgan to expect fireworks from start to finish.Durden and Van will collide at UFC 310, which takes place December 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Ahead of the fight, Durden recounts his incredible “Performance of the Night” win in September, what he thought of Van asking for this fight, earning his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, training with UFC flyweight champ Alexandre Pantoja, always remembering his blue-collar roots, and much more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:04 – How Jack Daniels and a big lunch earned Durden $50,000
4:29 – Getting called out by Joshua Van and “bringing all the smoke”
7:16 – Weighing in on the UFC’s glove decisions
8:16 – Working with Alexandre Pantoja ahead of his title fight with Kai Asakura
11:13 – Finding motivation in a decision to chase UFC dream
13:55 – Lifetime of work rewarded with Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt
15:14 – “It’s going to be a hell of a fight”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan reflect on an incredible Jon Jones win at UFC 309, and perhaps an unfortunate final sendoff for Stipe Miocic. What is motivating Jones now? Will it be Alex Pereira, or could a Tom Aspinall fight deliver the type of cash “Bones” wants to take the matchup?
Plus, the guys talk about the predictable matchup between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson that streamed live on Netflix and wonder why so many people had issues understanding what was going to unfold.
Additionally, Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler both delivered at UFC 309, while Bo Nickal showed he’s still a work in progress. Plus the latest from John’s work with CFFC Match Day, and the difficult but seemingly appropriate decision Eric was forced to make at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
2:03 – What else did you think was going to happen with Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson?
12:16 – The stars were out, and Jon Jones delivered at Madison Square Garden
20:09 – Did Stipe Miocic deserve better in his retirement?
23:04 – Mental warfare or masterful manipulation, Jones is calling the shots
31:01 – Defending Jon Jones and the need to give challengers a chance
36:39 – Charles Oliveira is just that good
40:56 – Bo Nickal fighting smart or showing weakness?
43:03 – A wild weekend with CFFC Match Day and some incredible college wrestling
46:49 – Fantastic Gamebred Barecknuckle MMA event ends in unfortunate fashion
Mississippi’s Brandon Davis earned his way into the UFC on the first season of Dana White’s Contender Series and went on to fight nine times in the promotion’s famed octagon. Now, he’s headlining Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 9, which takes place Friday, November 15, from Biloxi’s Mississippi Coast Coliseum and streams live on the Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA YouTube channel.
“Killer B” joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup with Randy Costa, a rematch from the UFC which sees the winner taking home the promotion’s inaugural bantamweight title, as well as to discuss his current career path, little league baseball, sparring with a jacked Alan Belcher, and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:11 – Breaking down the rematch with Randy Costa
3:13 – Adjusting to bareknuckle fighting
5:54 – Reflecting on a rocky UFC run
8:09 – Training to fight without gloves
11:49 – Making history with Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take an intense look at UFC 309's headliner, where reigning heavyweight champion Jon Jones faces the man with the record for most UFC heavyweight title defenses, Stipe Miocic, including why previews of this matchup have been unfairly dismissive.
What comes next if Jones wins? Should it be Tom Aspinall or Alex Pereira? What kind of chaos would ensue of Miocic can pull off the upset? Plus, there are some other intriguing fights, as well, and Eric and John outline their busy weekends, including appearances at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA and CFFC Match Day. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:40 – Has everybody been a little unfair to Stipe Miocic?
8:33 – Making the case for a Miocic upset
14:53 – Jones struggled against rangy strikers Dominick Reyes, Thiago Santos, and Alexander Gustafsson – does that happen again?
22:30 – Is motivation an issue again for Jones, and how does the wrestling factor in?
30:30 – Laying out the best-case scenario for Jones
43:08 – An interesting lineup shift for the UFC 309 card
44:58 – Is Jones scared of Tom Aspinall, or is he simply playing promotional chess?
57:59 – Aspinall may be a stern challenge, but the legacy is still building
1:02:23 – Previewing Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA and CFFC Match Day
Nine-time UFC veteran has long been known as one of the most exciting athletes in combat sport, and he returns to action next at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 9, which takes place Friday, November 15, from Biloxi’s Mississippi Coast Coliseum and streams live on the Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA YouTube channel.
“The Kid” joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, discuss a challenging road in his post-UFC career, explain why he continues to fight despite working full-time, as well, and much more.
0:00 – “The Kid” not going anywhere, but “Mississippi Mean” works, too 0:38 – UFC regrets, and lessons learned the hard way 5:37 – Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA preview: “I’m going to walk away from his unconscious body.” 7:48 – A passion fueled by putting on a show – and debt 9:12 – Thoughts on the UFC’s class action settlement 10:22 – “I’m the last of a dying breed” 13:22 – “I’m on a different level than him”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and Jon Jones look back at UFC Fight Night 246 and Brandon Moreno’s spectacular performance. Is a title shot next, or perhaps a No. 1 contender title eliminator fight?
Erin Blanchfield gets the biggest win of her career, taking out former champ “Thug” Rose Namajunas. It’s only two weeks until UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, and what could really be on the line in the main event? All this and more.
0:00 – From CFFC Match Day to FURY Professional Grappling
2:30 – Measuring the impact of changes to the Unified Rules of MMA
6:55 – Brandon Moreno shines at UFC Fight Night 246
13:50 – What’s next for “The Assassin Baby”?
18:48 – Erin Blanchfield picks up biggest win of her career
25:31 – Where does Rose Namajunas go from here?
28:12 – It’s time to start thinking about UFC 309
32:28 – What should have happened with Jon Jones vs. Matt Hamill?
40:08 – UFC 309 set to deliver at Madison Square Garden
43:06 – If victorious, will Jones retire or fight Tom Aspinall?
53:06 – Will the UFC look to set that fight up at UFC 309?
58:43 – Quick preview of UFC Fight Night 246
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the undisputed, undefeated Ilia Topuria and his spectacular knockout of Max Holloway. How high is the ceiling for Topuria, and is Holloway’s next move back to 155 pounds?
Khamzat Chimaev dispatches of Robert Whittaker in round 1 of their co-main event scrap. Will Chimaev get the next crack at the UFC middleweight title, and does Dricus Du Plessis have the secret sauce to take Chimaev’s “0” away? All this and more.
0:00 – UFC 308 delivered on those “holy sh-t” moments
2:47 – Ilia Topuria is an absolute cheat code
10:13 – “El Matador” was telling a story from start to finish
16:57 – Where are Topuria’s potential weaknesses?
20:46 – What is Topuria’s proper spot in the pound-for-pound rankings?
25:23 – Max Holloway’s logical next move
26:44 – Khamzat Chimaev absolutely scintillating in victory
34:08 – Identifying a subtle adjustment in Chimaev’s game en route to a vicious submission
41:50 – Did Chimaev skip ahead of Sean Strickland for next crack at Dricus Du Plessis?
50:22 – Magomed Ankalaev can no longer be denied his title shot
55:46 – Might as well start getting excited for Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov
56:30 – What is going on with Dana White and Francis Ngannou?
1:07:34 – Looking ahead to CFFC Match Day, FURY Professional Grappling, and a whole of Eric in the cage
UFC Hall of Famer Frankie Edgar joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to discuss life as a UFC Hall of Famer, his growing gym at Iron Army Academy and a weekend celebration, preview this weekend’s UFC 308 headliner, look ahead to Division I college wrestling visiting New Jersey on November 17, and more.
0:00 – Joining the UFC Hall of Fame
1:58 – Champ and the Tramp Podcast
3:51 – Growing the Iron Army Academy and the value of martial arts
6:04 – Previewing the opening celebration on Saturday, October 26
7:09 – Looking at Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway at UFC 308
8:53 – CFFC Match Day visits Toms River on November 17
11:46 – Enjoying the retired life
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the incredible scenes that unfolded at “PFL: Battle of the Giants,” including a powerfully emotional win for Francis Ngannou over Renan Ferreira in Saudi Arabia. The two also discuss where Cris Cyborg stands in the all-time GOAT talk, before it’s time to begin looking forward to Saturday’s UFC 308 event in Abu Dhabi.
Can Ilia Topuria retain his featherweight title over the legendary Max Holloway? Is Robert Whittaker the man to finally derail Khamzat Chimaev? All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
2:03 – Breaking down Francis Ngannou’s win over Renan Ferreira
8:47 – Understanding the grappling element of Ngannou’s win
13:48 – One word to describe Ngannou’s effort: Heroic
19:39 – Will Ngannou fight again?
27:51 – Can Jon Jones have an impact on what happens next?
29:46 – What impact did Cris Cyborg’s win have on her GOAT status?
36:56 – A frustrating observation in Johnny Eblen vs. Fabian Edwards
39:03 – Are the odds right for Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway?
47:07 – Opening round tension will prove very telling in UFC 308 main event
51:54 – Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev might outshine the main event
59:17 – What else to watch for in Abu Dhabi?
UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad is set to face undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 on December 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. With that main event announced this week, Muhammad joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan to talk life since winning the belt in July, his willingness to take on an undefeated challenger, the success of Chicago’s Valle Flow Striking Academy, his plans to get on an Alex Pereira schedule of fighting, and more.
0:00 – Hanging out with Jelly Roll in Chicago
2:07 – Dealing with life as champion
3:12 – Sneaking past UFC security to take incredible 2012 picture with Dana White
5:12 – “I’m still the challenger” against Shavkat Rakhmonov
7:09 – Can Rakhmonov deal with fearless pressure at UFC 310?
9:13 – “Your next fight should be your Super Bowl”
11:13 – Cornering Julianna Peña and measuring the success of Mike Valle
13:36 – Mapping out training camp for UFC 310
14:44 – Launching War Room Academy and an incredible fan giveaway
16:26 – Getting on that Alex Pereira schedule in 2025
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap an incredible performance from Brandon Royval and discuss what it means for the UFC’s flyweight division. How far did Tatsuro Taira’s stock fall in defeat?
Additionally, the two look ahead to this weekend’s big PFL pay-per-view, where Francis Ngannou finally returns to the cage to take on Renan Ferreira. Are the betting lines for this one a little shocking?
We’re also just a little more than a week away from Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway and Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 in Abu Dhabi. Might as well start getting excited now for those two incredible matchups. All this and more.
0:00 – How can you not like Brandon Royval?
7:43 – Grant Dawson delivers a gem
8:34 – “PFL: Battle of the Giants” a dangerous fight for Francis Ngannou
14:48 – Is Ngannou’s legacy on the line against Renan Ferreira?
22:26 – Win or lose, Ngannou remains an inspiration
31:51 – Looking ahead to UFC 308, where Ilia Topuria is a big favorite over Max Holloway
39:14 – Eric lays out the gameplan for a Holloway victory
43:41 – Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev the best fight on the card?
51:04 – CFFC 137 preview and CFFC Match Day teaser
54:51 – Eric’s son is a savage
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down UFC 307 from Salt Lake City Utah, where Alex Pereira retained his light heavyweight title in fun fight vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. Is “Poatan” now in the conversation for best combat sports athlete of all time? Also, who is next for Pereira? Could he challenge either Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall for the heavyweight title? Julianna Peña takes a controversial decision over Raquel Pennington, but the guys both agree it wasn’t a robbery. All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
0:52 – Khalil Rountree Jr. delivered as expected, but with one small issue
6:33 – Alex Pereira’s strengths provided path to late success
14:33 – “Poatan” clearly no longer defined by Israel Adesanya rivalry
19:53 – What makes sense for Pereira next?
26:23 – Is Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira the real fight to make, and where does “Poatan” stand on the all-time combat sports athlete list?
36:07 – Was Raquel Pennington robbed against Julianna Peña?
43:06 – Is Peña trolling Kayla Harrison?
Two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time PFL champion, and current top-ranked UFC contender Kayla Harrison joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to recap her hard-fought win over Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307, react to Julianna Peña’s razor-thin win over Raquel Pennington to claim the UFC women’s bantamweight title, as well as Peña’s post-fight callout of Amanda Nunes, and more.
Harrison makes it clear she wants to fight for a title next, but she’s not yet convinced that champ Peña is going to be quite so willing to sign the dotted line.
0:00 – “I finally look like I’ve been in a fight”
0:30 – Not completely satisfied with UFC 307 win: “I want to dominate”
1:49 – Making final round adjustments with faith in American Top Team
4:26 – “You can’t steal the title”
5:56 – Was Peña trolling? “I feel like she’s going to find opportunities to run.”
8:58 – “I’ll be ready whenever they tell me to be ready.”
Renato “Money” Moicano, the UFC’s No. 11-ranked lightweight contender, spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan ahead of his headlining bout Saturday’s UFC Paris event, which streams live on ESPN+.
Moicano previews his main event matchup with No. 12 Benoit Saint Denis – where he’ll be playing the role of villain against a French opponent – and looks to the future, as well, which he hopes included a year-end trip to Las Vegas for UFC 310.
0:00 – Launching the Paris takeover
1:35 – Breaking down Benoit Saint Denis, including his faceoff fashion
4:31 – Fight week plans in France
6:39 – “I would not take my chance against Conor McGregor”
8:22 – Planning a CFFC return, as long as it doesn’t interfere with UFC 310 in Las Vegas
On this episode, John Morgan takes us back to the chaos from this past weekend’s CFFC 135 main event in Tampa, Florida. The guys look ahead to the matchup between Renato Moicano and Benoit Saint Denis from Paris, France. Meanwhile, is everyone overlooking Khalil Rountree Jr. when he takes on Alex Pereira at UFC 307, or is Eric McMahon crazy for calling this a pick ’em? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:48 – Breaking down a chaotic ending at CFFC 135
9:22 – Giving Joey Ruquet his well-deserved moment
14:17 – Previewing Friday’s CFFC 136, where Eric and John will both be working
17:12 – Does Renato Moicano have a chance against Benoit Saint Denis at UFC Paris?
25:32 – Big stakes in co-main event with Nassourdine Imavov vs. Brendan Allen
28:19 – Should Raul Rosas Jr. be fighting a ranked opponent next?
35:47 – Is Khalil Rountree Jr. being overlooked ahead of his UFC 307 fight with Alex Pereira?
51:30 – Is Merab Dvalishvili ducking Umar Nurmagomedov, and why is Aljamain Sterling involved?
58:22 – Previewing this week’s Dana White’s Contender Series, where a CFFC champ is in action
Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship Founder and President David Feldman spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan to lay out the plans for the organization’s new partnership with DAZN, preview the promotion’s upcoming blockbuster event in Spain, discuss Conor McGregor’s role in bringing an entire concert as an after-party, tease a year-end spectacular in Philadelphia, and much more.
0:00 – Taking “another step towards true mainstream-ness” with DAZN
2:58 – BKFC in an outdoor bullfighting stadium – and a concert, too!
5:14 – Breaking down the action in Marbella, Spain
8:16 – Previewing the chaos of Oscar Stephens-Willis vs. Ben “The Bane” Davis
10:24 – A special night with a year-end Philadelphia homecoming
12:01 – Shifting perceptions on BKFC safety, and the data to back it up
12:42 – “I think we’re going to make a big splash
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the spectacle that was “UFC 306 at Riyadh Season Noche UFC” at Sphere Las Vegas. Merab Dvalishvili dominates “Suga” Sean O’Malley en route to a unanimous decision victory. Valentina Shevchenko leaves no doubt of who is the queen of the flyweight division. Diego Lopes gets his signature victory to date, dispatching Brian Ortega. What’s next for Lopes? All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:01 – Did the UFC deliver at Sphere Las Vegas?
7:15 – Sean O’Malley flat, or simply stifled by “The Machine”?
12:18 – Merab Dvalishvili brilliant in victory
17:15 – Laying out the path forward for Dvalishvili, O’Malley
25:08 – Valentina Shevchenko fails to entertain but gets needed result
28:13 – Diego Lopes can be doubted no longer
33:55 – Breaking down the Dvalishvili, Aljamain Sterling, Ray Longo relationship
37:56 – Is Stipe Miocic being unfairly disrespected ahead of UFC 309?
49:32 – What to make of Michael Chandler moving on from Conor McGregor
54:45 – Breaking down Dana White vs. T-Mobile Arena and MGM Resorts
1:01:49 – Weekend preview, including CFFC 135
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at “Bellator Champions Series: San Diego” from this past weekend and wonder where Usman Nurmagomedov would fit in amongst the best in the UFC lightweight division before recapping UFC Fight Night 242, and Sean Brady’s big win. Then, it’s UFC 306 fight week!
Can Sean O’Malley use his footwork and reach to keep “The Machine,” Merab Dvalishvili, at bay or will the pace and cardio be to much for the “Suga” show? Is third time the charm for former champ Valentina Shevchenko, and are we shocked that “T-City” is a betting underdog? All this and more...
Check out the full Dana White interview here: https://youtu.be/eOIZDG0v74s
0:00 – Check out the Dana White interview!
2:19 – How good is Bellator lightweight champ Usman Nurmagomedov
10:22 – Sean Brady turns in fantastic performance against Gilbert Burns
14:45 – Finally, it’s time for “UFC 306 at Riyadh Season Noce UFC”
16:17 – Breaking down Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili
26:05 – Underestimating O’Malley and his intelligence as a fighter
32:08 – Is at #AndNew or #AndStill on Saturday night?
38:47 – Why isn’t there more talk about Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko 3?
47:07 – Will Sphere Las Vegas shine at UFC 306?
50:41 – Brian Ortega being disrespected ahead of Diego Lopes fight?
57:37 – A special night on press row – wherever that might be
UFC CEO and President Dana White spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan ahead of Riyadh Season Noche UFC, formerly known as “UFC 306: O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili,” where the promotion is planning a one-of-a-kind event at the technological marvel known as Sphere Las Vegas.
White discusses the challenge of not only producing the event in the building, but also for an ESPN+ pay-per-view audience. He also discusses what it means for Canelo Alvarez to be facing Edgar Berlanga the same night in Las Vegas at the UFC’s usual home of T-Mobile Arena, addresses Oscar De La Hoya’s recent message, the future of Noche UFC, and more, including some thoughts on the retirement of former UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson, why he continues to stress the pound-for-pound status of Jon Jones, and more.
Riyadh Season Noche UFC takes place Saturday, September 14.
Timecodes
0:00 – “The level of difficulty and the complication of this event, is at a whole ’nother level
1:14 – “If you’re Mexican or of Mexican descent, you’re going to be blown away”
2:01 – “People, wouldn’t even understand how hard and challenging this thing really was and is”
4:12 – “Sports and entertainment are truly going to come together at the same time”
6:02 – “What I don’t know is if this works”
8:08 – Is this a head-to-head battle with Canelo Alvarez?
9:16 – Oscar De La Hoya? “I don’t know where he’s getting his tickets from, but he definitely isn’t getting it from me”
10:26 – “Who’s defended Demetrious Johnson more than me?”
11:05 – Jon Jones pound-for-pound best? Trust the experts.
12:36 – Sphere Las Vegas works, is Allegiant Stadium next?
13:48 – Sphere future uncertain, but Noche UFC “will be a tentpole event every year now”
Combat sports legend and the UFC’s original BMF champion Jorge Masvidal spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his July boxing match with Nate Diaz, his planned return to the UFC and ideas of potential matchups, some big matchup possibilities for his training partners at American Top Team, and much more.
0:00 – “I know the judges got it wrong” against Nate Diaz
2:38 – Masvidal pleads the Fifth?
3:16 – “Definitely, 100 percent back to MMA” late 2024 or early 2025
4:12 – Breaking down Belal Muhammad as a champion
5:46 – “The title run is never, never out of the question”
6:28 – Might as well go knock out Michael Chandler since Conor McGregor is never fighting again
7:20 – “I wouldn’t mind unleashing all my f-cking anger” on Nick Diaz’s face
9:04 – Amanda Nunes vs. Kayla Harrison would be “the biggest fight in women’s history”
12:17 – Joanna Jedrzejczyk as a BMF champion, and American Top Team’s “greatest women’s program ever assembled”
13:45 – “Born to Fight” book inspired by Roberto Duran, Jens Pulver
Two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time PFL champion Kayla Harrison previewed her upcoming appearance at UFC 307 with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.While Harrison is scheduled to face No. 2-ranked contender Ketlen Vieira at the event – which takes place October 5 in Salt Lake City – she is willing to step in against women’s bantamweight champ Raquel Pennington or former titleholder Julianna Peña at any point on fight week, including fight night. In fact, Harrison says she’d be willing to face Pennington, Peña and Vieira all on the same night.Harrison also addresses the rising tension with former teammate Amanda Nunes and says she truly hopes “The Lioness” returns from retirement for one massive superfight: “That is literally the dream scenario for Kayla Harrison.”
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:37 – No nerves for UFC 300 debut: “Maybe I’m like a serial killer”
1:54 – “The only problem I have with Amanda is that she talks sh-t about the greatest team in the world”
3:57 – “Everyone’s going to be like, ‘Holy sh-t, why isn’t this girl fighting for the title?’
5:12 – “One of those b-tches gets sick or hurt or injured, I will take that fight on 30 seconds’ notice”
6:28 – “Where’s Tonya Harding when you need her?”
7:10 – “Of course I would rather put an elbow through Julianna’s skull than Raquel’s”
7:56 – The dream scenario: Ketlen Vieira, then title shot, then Amanda Nunes
8:59 – Breaking down Larissa Pacheco vs. Cris Cyborg: “I’ll for sure be tuning in”
10:56 – “I want to break Ketlen Vieira. I want her to to beg”
With 10 years in the UFC, top-ranked welterweight contender Gilbert Burns knows the end of his career looms large on the horizon, but that doesn’t mean his title aspirations have lowered one bit. Ahead of his September 7 headliner with Sean Brady, “Durinho” spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, talk the UFC welterweight title picture, his time left in the sport, and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:19 – Competing in the UFC Apex for the first time since 2021
2:30 – Big month for “Show Me The Money” podcast
3:17 – Handful of fights left, but championship goal the same
5:10 – Moving past the Jack Della Maddalena loss
9:18 – Sean Brady “a freaking monster,” but going to get finished
10:50 – Predicting Belal Muhammad’s title win, and his first defense
14:46 – Grappling in display against Brady?
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap an incredible performance from Caio Borralho in his convincing win over Jared Cannonier, as well as noting a few other amazing performances at UFC on ESPN 62.
Additionally, in a rare off-week for the UFC, the guys look ahead to the most anticipated matchups of the promotion’s upcoming schedule, including Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306, Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway at UFC 308, and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:15 – UFC on ESPN 62 delivered on entertainment value
9:31 – Caio Borralho emerges as a new title contender
15:14 – Breaking down the UFC’s upcoming schedule
18:01 – Addressing the Sphere effect on fan excitement level
24:45 – Pulling Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov out of the equation
32:14 – Why Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. gets a surprising nod
37:38 – Debating between Alex Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchecnko and Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway
47:53 – Where Raquel Pennington vs. Julianna Pena fits on the list – and what it means moving forward
54:37 – Francis Ngannou and Renan Ferreira looms large
55:41 – Eric McMahon returns to the UFC Apex
On this episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan take a deep dive into an amazing championship fight at UFC 305 between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya. Does “DDP” get the credit he deserves? Does he really get as tired as he looks, and what does the future hold for both him and Adesanya? A judge is removed from his duties after a crazy 30-27 scorecard. Should more commissions hold judges accountable in real time? All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
2:09 – Was the breakdown of Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya correct?
8:09 – Opening round proves hard to score – and the guys were split on the call
14:09 – Du Plessis takes over in round 2
18:42 – Du Plessis’ “resting exhausted face” visible in round 3
25:59 – Adesanya’s critical mistake in round 4
35:28 – Walking through the finishing sequence, and Du Plessis’ due respect
41:51 – What’s next for Du Plessis and Adesanya?
46:41 – Breaking down the rest of UFC 305
58:17 – Weekend preview – and an upcoming Vegas trip
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down one of the most anticipated grudge matches in recent memory, with the main event of this week’s UFC 305 featuring middleweight champ Dricus Du Plessis vs. former titleholder Israel Adesanya in Perth, Australia.
Additionally, the guys take a quick look at the rest of the card, including a heavyweight banger between Tai Tuivasa and Jairzinho Rozenstruik, before discussing the PFL’s massive announcement of an October 19 pay-per-view featuring Francis Ngannou vs. Renan Ferreira and Cris Cyborg vs. Larissa Pacheco.
0:00 – Introduction
1:11 – Chepe Mariscal proves star of UFC on ESPN 61
6:01 – Memphis’ Danny Barlow gets a win, but didn’t look 100 percent
10:03 – Are betting lines at bit shocking in UFC 305 headliner
14:49 – “I think that this fight heavily, heavily favors Dricus Du Plessis”
23:45 – Valuing Israel Adesanya’s power to manifest big moments
32:58 – “I’m so interested in this first round”
36:22 – Finding out what we really have in Steve Erceg
40:33 – Breaking down the rest of UFC 305
46:20 – PFL makes massive announcement for October 19
53:06 – Is Francis Ngannou rushing back to the cage unwisely?
1:01:08 – Weekend preview, including CFFC 134 in Atlantic City
Memphis’ own Kevin Pease joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan following a victory in his Professional Fighters League debut. “Sweet Peas” earned a hard-fought decision win over Nick Meck at 2024 PFL 7 on August 2, and the four-time CFFC veteran recaps his big-show debut, overcoming adversity along the way, and what comes next for the undefeated welterweight prospect.
0:00 – Introduction
0:31 – From unrealized CFFC title shot to PFL debut
2:02 – “If I get out of this round, I’m going to f-cking get this guy”
3:31 – A razor-thin decision scored more easily in review
5:39 – Reflecting on a nerve-racking night for the family
6:32 – Putting on a show for “big brother” Michael Chandler
7:21 – Future plans with the PFL
9:40 – “I just hope you enjoyed the show”
In his first interview since returning to the U.S. after a surprise trip to Abu Dhabi, new UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad discusses his UFC 304 win over Leon Edwards, his experience on UFC on ABC 7, taking the loang road to the UFC title, his pursuit of Georges St-Pierre’s longstanding records, and much more, while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
0:00 – “I’m still Belal. You can call me that.”
0:56 – On beating Leon Edwards: “I told you so”
3:08 – A last-minute trip to Abu Dhabi, and a big win for Umar Nurmagomedov
4:52 – “Looking at how far we’ve come, those are good reminders”
9:00 – Following in the footsteps of Khabib Nurmagomedov
11:07 – “Now you have to work twice as hard”
14:26 – The real prize: Getting a shout out from CM Punk
On this episode, Eric McMahon and JohnMorgan look back at UFC on ABC 7 from Abu Dhabi, where Umar Nurmagomedov cemented his spot as the next in line for the bantamweight title after an impressive all-around performance against Cory Sandhagen. The legend Tony Ferguson retires – or did he? Mackenzie Dern looks impressive in yet another win – is she now more than just a jiu-jitsu fighter? Looking forward to UFC 305 with Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya. Is “DDP” just trolling Adesanya at this point? All this and more.
0:00 – Eric makes his PFL debut, and gets scolded by “Big” John McCarthy
6:26 – Memphis’ Kevin Pease victorious at 2024 PFL 7 – what could be next?
10:55 – What did Umar Nurmagomedov earn with his UFC on ABC 7 win?
17:18 – Tony Ferguson half-retires, leaves one glove in cage
19:29 – Mackenzie Dern on path to top of division
21:07 – Just how good is Joel Alvarez?
24:18 – Previewing UFC on ESPN 61 and Danny Barlow’s return
27:05 – Looking ahead to Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya at UFC 305
36:06 – Had “DDP” just been trolling Adesanya this whole time?
43:34 – Kai Kara-France vs. Steve Erceg and flyweight title picture
44:40 – Fireworks expected with Tai Tuivasa and Jairzinho Rozenstruik
50:01 – World MMA Awards announcements, CFFC Match Day, and Eric’s double duty
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan discuss the aftermath of UFC 304. Belal Muhammad is now UFC welterweight champion after scoring a unanimous decision over Leon Edwards, but who will he face in his first defense – and is Dana White happy to have a new titleholder?
Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall is an absolute star in the making and has a very simple request for Jon Jones. Will it be answered? All this and more...
0:00 – Introduction
1:15 – Belal Muhammad overdelivers in UFC 304 title win
5:31 – Could Leon Edwards have done more to turn tide?
9:30 – It wasn’t a barnburner, but was it entertaining?
14:32 – Tom Aspinall snatched Alex Pereira’s hype in stunning Curtis Blaydes
19:48 – Is there any controversy in Marc Goddard’s stoppage?
24:09 – Aspinall challenges Jon Jones – and “Bones” responds
40:46 – Paddy Pimblett turns in best UFC performance yet
42:29 – Did the UFC deliver with Sphere lineup?
46:40 – CFFC 133 highlights and COMMAND lessons from “Big” John McCarthy
UFC welterweight Danny “LeftHand2God” Barlow took a break from a friend’s wedding to speak with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his UFC debut, recovering from a broken arm, returning to action at UFC on ESPN 61 on Aug. 10 in Las Vegas, Uros Medic withdrawing from the matchup, and much more – including why he’s always quick to shout out his hometown of Memphis and so proud to represent his community.
0:00 – Introduction
0:38 – UFC debut “bigger than I could ever imagine”
1:22 – On fighting with a broken arm: “The pain just wasn’t greater than the moment”
4:03 – Uros Medic out, Nikolay Veretennikov in for Aug. 10?
6:18 – “One thing you can’t deny about Memphis is our swag”
8:03 – On giving back to community: “That’s what this is about”
9:43 – “The gameplan is to always get in there and have fun”
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at Jake Paul’s sixth-round TKO victory over Mike Perry and discuss why everyone should stop hating on “The Problem Child” and start giving him a little bit of credit. Looking forward to Saturday’s UFC 304 headliner between champion Leon Edwards and challenger Belal Muhammad. Does this fight have fireworks or dud written all over it? Can Curtis Blaydes drag Tom Aspinall into deep water? This weekend, it’s CFFC 133 for John, and “Big John McCarthy’s COMMAND training for Eric. All this and more...
0:00 – Introcduction
2:20 – Jake Paul scores a dominant TKO win over Mike Perry
4:31 – The chief misconception regarding BKFC’s link to boxing
11:32 – Jake Paul’s team continues brilliant approach to matchmaking
16:03 – Here’s why you should be cheering for Jake Paul
21:59 – Jake Paul on target – sort of – with calling out Alex Pereira
25:19 – Why Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad could be incredibly boring
31:53 – Despite the concern, why intrigue is still high at UFC 304
40:53 – Breaking down interim champ Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes
49:30 – Previewing a stacked pay-per-view, including King Green vs. Paddy Pimblett
56:47 – Breaking down CFFC 133 in Tampa
1:00:17 – Eric lays out his plans for referee training in Las Vegas
UFC middleweight Abdul Razak Alhassan nearly scored a spectacular first-round finish at UFC on ESPN 59 in Denver, but referee Dan Miragliotta ultimately declared the matchup with Cody Brundage to be a no contest after a few strikes were deemed to have landed illegally to the back of the head.Alhassan recounts the action with Grind City Media’s John Morgan, discusses his hopes for resolution and a possible rematch, reveals the source of his clear fight-week emotion that stemmed from a harrowing brush with the criminal justice system, and more.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:13 – Brundage was “trying to get an easy way out”
3:16 – “Let’s run it back so I can f-cking put a f-cking hole in his face”
5:08 – Is there a need for a rule change on illegal blows?
5:53 – Alhassan asking UFC to review his compensation for the performance
7:29 – “I’ve wished death so many times I cannot even tell you”
10:22 – Alhassan details the price of fame and the mistakes that led to being falsely accused
14:40 – “We’re getting in there Saturday if we have to”
BKFC superstar and 15-time UFC veteran “Platinum” Mike Perry faces infamous YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in the main event of “Fear No Man” on Saturday, July 20, live on DAZN pay-per-view from Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. Ahead of that matchup, Perry joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, which Perry believes he will be ending in violent fashion.
0:00 – “I’m here for the violence”
1:41 – Explaining Jake Paul’s switch from Mike Tyson to Mike Perry
4:22 – Gloves or not, “My favorite thing to do is to box”
6:27 – “If you’re not taking punches, then you should shut your (expletive) mouth”
9:38 – “I’m trying to put my knuckles through the glove into Jake’s teeth”
12:14 – A one-off return to the octagon for the UFC’s upcoming Sphere event?!?
13:45 – “Mike Perry going to knock out Jake Paul for the world to see, baby”
Dan Ige was one half of the co-main event of UFC 303, but that hardly tells the full story of how he stepped into a fight with Diego Lopes on just a few hours’ notice. Ige talks to Grind City Media’s John Morgan about the experience, which started on a massage table and ended him receiving a standing ovation from the crowd at Las Vegas’ T-Mobile Arena.Featuring a cameo from former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland, Ige relives the wild day and takes a look to the future, which could involve a fight at the UFC’s Sphere event in September, while also trying to put a historic night into perspective.
0:00 – Introduction
1:34 – Ali Abdelaziz’s frantic question: “You want to fight tonight?”
7:06 – “Be on Las Vegas Blvd. and Silverado Ranch at the Shell station in 30 minutes”
9:13 – Setting the standard for short-notice fights with “absolute legend” Diego Lopes
11:35 – “I would do it a million times”
12:58 – Looking forward, and getting some love in a Sean Strickland cameo
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at an absolutely chaotic UFC 303. Alex Pereira once again walks away with a vicious KO victory and sets himself up for a heavyweight run. Could Jon Jones be in his future, perhaps as soon as November at Madison Square Garden? Diego Lopes and Dan Ige should just get BMF belts right now after doing most fighters simply wouldn’t. Ian Garry shows his fight IQ by edging our Michael “Venom” Page, and will Conor McGregor fight at Sphere in September? All this and more...
0:00 – Introduction
1:12 – How was Dan Ige able to fight Diego Lopes on just a few hours’ notice?
7:41 – Lopes deserving of massive credit as well
15:52 – Does Ige take a fight at Sphere or stick with a return on July 20?
18:32 – Alex Pereira absolutely sensational in dominant win over Jiri Prochazka
22:42 – Magomed Ankalaev up next – or is he?
27:28 – Pereira destined for heavyweight move - and perhaps Jon Jones
36:48 – Laying out the case for November at Madison Square Garden
40:47 – Was Ian Garry vs. Michael “Venom” Page a good decision?
51:12 – Danny Barlow vs. MVP on the horizon
53:41 – Is Conor McGregor fighting Michael Chandler at the UFC’s Sphere event?
1:02:30 – Weekend plans and Fourth of July celebrations
As an Irishman, Ian Machado Garry grew up idolizing countryman Conor McGregor, so the chance to share the main card at UFC 303 with the former two-division champion felt like a dream come true. Unfortunately, injury forced McGregor out of the contest, but Garry will still appear opposite Michael “Venom” Page.
It’s a key matchup at 170 pounds, but the No. 7-ranked Garry believes he is simply the technically superior fighter and will prove it Saturday night in an event that airs live on ESPN+ pay-per-view from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
Ahead of the matchup, Garry spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan.
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a masterful performance by Robert Whittaker and an overall good show at UFC on ABC 6. Conor McGregor goes viral – but not in a UFC cage – when he attends an event with rival promotion Bellator in Ireland. Meanwhile, Dana White responds without responding in Saudi Arabia. We offer a UFC 303 breakdown and what fights we are looking forward to on International Fight Week, as well. All this and more...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:14 – Robert Whittaker shines in tough spot in Saudi Arabia
9:10 – What’s next for Whittaker, UFC middleweight title picture?
17:32 – Sergei Pavlovich suffers devastating loss
20:13 – Alexander Volkov coming for Jon Jones, Tom Aspinall next?
28:01 – Kelvin Gastelum not going to get another shot at welterweight
30:09 – Jason Herzog, Marc Goddard face criticism after UFC on ABC 6
42:50 – Conor McGregor makes waves at Bellator event in Ireland
47:51 – Dana White offers telling response post-fight
55:54 – UFC 303 preview
1:02:37 – Breaking down Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka 2
No. 10-ranked UFC lightweight Renato Moicano believes it might be time for Michael Chandler to move on from Conor McGregor or risk a very unfortunate outcome – though “Money” admits it’s probably not an easy decision to make. Check out the full conversation with Grind City Media’s John Morgan after the two worked alongside each other to broadcast CFFC 132 and CFFC Muay Thai 2 this past weekend.
0:00 – Introduction
0:51 – Advice for teammate Emily Martins following shocking CFFC 132 loss
2:44 – Discussing a potential FURY Professional Grappling match with Pat Sabatini
3:36 – Recapping UFC 300 win over Jalin Turner
4:18 – Michael Chandler has a tough decision to make but may need to move on
6:39 – Chandler “doesn’t want that smoke” from Moicano
6:58 – Robert Whittaker getting “very, very tough fight” in Ikram Aliskerov
9:31 – “Show Me the Money” podcast planning a visit to CFFC 133 in July
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan unpack a busy week in massive cancellations on major upcoming UFC events. Khamzat Chimaev is out, and on just nine days’ notice, Robert Whittaker takes on the 15-1 Ikram Aliskerov at UFC on ABC 6 in Saudi Arabia. Conor McGregor is injured, and now the main event for UFC 303 is the rematch of Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka, with a co-main event of Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes. All this and more...
0:00 – Introduction
2:09 – Breaking down Tatsuro Taira’s win over Alex Perez
11:08 – Khamzat Chimaev out at UFC on ABC 6
15:52 – Robert Whittaker is a fighter’s fighter for taking on Ikram Aliskerov
24:35 – UFC 303 a different card without Conor McGregor – but is it better?
30:50 – Jamahal Hill out, but could he be next?
33:24 – What to expect in Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka rematch
37:38 – Is it time for Michael Chandler to move on from McGregor?
40:49 – What’s at stake in Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes?
48:53 – Should Greg Hardy stop fighting?
50:52 – Recapping an incredible CFFC 132 event
UFC welterweight Vicente Luque was just as surprised as everyone else when he was offered a fight with Nick Diaz, but the two will now meet in a five-round affair at a UFC Fight Night event on Saturday, Aug. 3 at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi.
With the booking official, “The Silent Assassin” spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan about how the fight came together, what he’s expecting in facing the longtime superstar, and more.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:57 – How did this fight come together?
1:58 – Does the five-round matchup favor either man?
3:45 – The challenges of fighting in Abu Dhabi
6:13 – How do you prepare for this version of Nick Diaz?
9:14 – Fun fight aside, how important is a win?
11:10 – Is Nate Diaz still a potential future target?
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down an incredibly entertaining UFC 302 headliner between Islam Makhachev and Dustin Poirier, as well as what might come next for the two stars. Is Makhachev the rightful pound-for-pound king right now, or Dana White right when he says that honor belongs to Jon Jones? There was some oddity with Sean Strickland vs. Paulo Costa in the cage and on the scorecards, but did Strickland do enough to get a title fight? Finally, there was supposed to be a press conference on Monday for UFC 303, but it was postponed. Is there reason for concern that Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler won’t happen?
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:54 – UFC 302 prelims shoutout: Bassil Hafez vs. Mickey Gall
4:02 – Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier was pure theater
9:18 – Makhachev’s power on display at UFC 302
15:40 – Is Makhachev being judged on a different scale?
20:56 – Dustin Poirier does not need to retire – but here is why he might
26:57 – Is Makhachev or Jon Jones the pound-for-pound king right now?
32:00 – One fight makes perfect sense for Poirier: Justin Gaethje
37:16 – What to make of Paulo Costa?
45:09 – Did Sean Strickland guarantee himself a title shot next?
51:45 – Is there any defense for that 49-46 card for Costa?
57:38 – Are you worried Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler doesn’t happen?
Dominance MMA CEO Ali Abdelaziz spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan for the latest “Cageside 1 on 1” to help preview Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier at UFC 302, including the role Khabib Nurmagomedov played in the preparation, as well as the shared legacy of the longtime teammates.Is Makhachev truly “the greatest fighter living in combat sports right now”?Additionally, Abdelaziz gave numerous updates on his roster of athletes – including Belal Muhammad ahead of his clash with Leon Edwards at UFC 304, Kamaru Usman as he looks to return from injury, top flyweight contenders Manel Kape and Amir Albazi, and massive claims involving Kayla Harrison and Amanda Nunes – as well as adding some added background on an explosive post he recently made on X.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:41 – Islam Makhachev immune to emotional plays from Dustin Poirier
4:17 – Makhachev beats Tyson Fury, Anthony Joshua, Leon Edwards, Dricus du Plessis
7:30 – Belal Muhammad “might be arrested” at UFC 304
9:16 – Kamaru Usman on the mend, should fight at welterweight
10:33 – Manel Kape, Amir Albazi next big names at flyweight
11:36 – Kayla Harrison turned down by Raquel Pennington, Aljamain Sterling
13:32 – Harrison made Amanda Nunes cry in training, would beat her ass in fight
16:18 – Promoters: Don’t hold fighters hostage
19:32 – UFC 302 predictions
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take a deep dive, breaking down the main event and co-main event of UFC 302. Can Dustin Poirier drag Islam Makhachev into deep water? how does Makhachev match up on the feet? In the co-main, will Paulo Costa empty the tank early and try to steamroll Sean Strickland, or will Strickland’s Philly shell wear down his massive opponent? Ronda Rousey makes some bold claims – is she right? All this and more ...
0:00 – Introduction
1:17 – What the betting odds say about Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier
5:35 – The real keys to victory for “The Diamond”
14:29 – What the champ needs to do to keep his belt at UFC 302
22:52 – Sean Strickland a heavy favorite over Paulo Costa – should he be?
31:15 – Costa’s best path to victory
36:18 - Taking a look at other key fights at UFC 302
38:13 – Will we ever see Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall?
42:45 – Is Ronda Rousey right?
56:16 – A change in plans for UFC 302
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at this past weekend of UFC and Bellator action. How hard is being a judge? Well, the guys walk through a couple “what if” situations. Belal Muhammad finally gets his shot for UFC gold at UFC 304, with a co-main event of Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blades. Would the UFC ever force Jon Jones’ hand to fight Aspinall? All this and more ...
0:00 – Introduction
2:55 – Lerone Murphy dominant in UFC Fight Night 241 win over Edson Barboza
7:02 – Are more rules needed following the “boob punch” on Saturday?
13:32 – Did the judges get it right in Patchy Mix vs. Magomed Magomdov?
16:21 – The challenge of serving as an MMA judge
29:13 – Looking ahead to Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier at UFC 302
37:23 – Sean Strickland and Paulo Costa destined to steal the show?
42:28 – Belal Muhammad gets his shot at Leon Edwards at UFC 304
44:48 – Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes also set for England
49:57 – Can Aspinall break up Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic
57:41 – FURY Professional Grappling 10, and Eric’s finally outnumbered at home
0:00 – Introduction
1:05 – “We’re in the same conversations as any top combat sport organization out there”
4:44 – Conor McGregor now has a “significant amount of equity” in BKFC
8:10 – McGregor remains close with UFC, not ruling out BKFC fight
10:50 – Don’t be surprised to see Feldman at UFC 303
11:23 – “Platinum” Mike Perry moving needle, wants money over a belt
14:43 – Previewing Friday’s BKFC Fight Night in Omaha, Nebraska
15:49 – TV deal, epic event in Italy on 2024 checklist
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan, relive the Derrick Lewis fight and his post-fight antics and why he will always be a mainstay in the UFC. Bellator Champions Series from Paris takes place this Friday, as Patchy Mix takes on Magomed Magomedov in the main event. Additionally, fast-rising French star Cedric Doumbe squares off against the vet (and longtime training partner of Eric) Jaleel Willis. Has Willis’ trashtalk gotten in the head of Doumbe? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:11 – Derrick Lewis, expert grappler?
9:04 – “The Black Beast” delivers another stunning knockout
15:59 – What to make of Lewis’ post-fight antics
22:25 – Does a title run even make sense for Lewis?
27:39 – “Bellator Champions Series: Paris” features Patchy Mix vs. Magomed Magomedov
34:42 – Can Jaleel Willis surprise Cedric Doumbe in the night’s co-main event?
44:03 – Is the UFC done with events at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas?
50:21 – Weekend preview, including Apollo MMA 1 – and Eric’s growing family
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan, relive the Derrick Lewis fight and his post-fight antics and why he will always be a mainstay in the UFC. Bellator Champions Series from Paris takes place this Friday, as Patchy Mix takes on Magomed Magomedov in the main event. Additionally, fast-rising French star Cedric Doumbe squares off against the vet (and longtime training partner of Eric) Jaleel Willis. Has Willis’ trashtalk gotten in the head of Doumbe? All this and more.
0:00 – Introduction
1:11 – Derrick Lewis, expert grappler?
9:04 – “The Black Beast” delivers another stunning knockout
15:59 – What to make of Lewis’ post-fight antics
22:25 – Does a title run even make sense for Lewis?
27:39 – “Bellator Champions Series: Paris” features Patchy Mix vs. Magomed Magomedov
34:42 – Can Jaleel Willis surprise Cedric Doumbe in the night’s co-main event?
44:03 – Is the UFC done with events at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas?
50:21 – Weekend preview, including Apollo MMA 1 – and Eric’s growing family
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan discuss everything that unfolded at UFC 301 in Brazil, including a surprisingly tense battle between Alexandre Pantoja and Steve Erceg.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:01 – Alexandre Pantoja (barely) retains flyweight belt against impressive Steve Erceg
10:50 – Pantoja quietly putting together impressive accolades
15:32 – Eric’s old-school encounter with Pantoja
20:11 – Jose Aldo looked flawless in return from retirement
28:56 – Old dog Anthony Smith delivers big with old tricks
32:42 – Mauricio Ruffy delivers stunning finish in UFC debut
39:28 – Caio Borralho scores breakout win over Paul Craig
40:26 – Should Michel Pereira’s win have been called a no contest?
51:19 – Weekend preview, and a big announcement for the show
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan discuss how Mike Perry has become the face of the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship after remaining undefeated with a quick and violent win over Thiago Alves. Did BKFC win the weekend, and was Alfredo Angulo vs. Jeremiah Riggs the best round in BKFC history? Eric and John also offer up a UFC 301 preview, where the “King of Rio,” Jose Aldo, returns, and don’t sleep on Steve Erceg. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:34 – “Platinum” Mike Perry is indeed the “King of Violence”
8:06 – Conor McGregor is now a part owner of BKFC
13:22 – Alfredo Angulo and Jeremiah Riggs deliver an instant classic
16:34 – Ben Rothwell also shines at BKFC KnuckleMania 4
21:14 – Bogdan Guskov picks up statement win at UFC Apex
24:51 – Better days likely ahead for Ryan Spann
30:43 – Can Steve Erceg deliver the improbable against Alexandre Pantoja at UFC 301?
36:39 – Other fights to watch on Saturday’s event from Brazil
43:42 – Jose Aldo remains the “King of Rio,” but will he win?
49:50 – Predicting UFC 301 interest, and laying out weekend plans
On this episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan talk Conor McGregor and his comeback bid vs Michael Chandler. Are they perfect opponents for each other, and will the extra size be helpful or harmful for either fighter? Jamahal Hill makes a quick turnaround as he books his next fight against Khalil Rountree Jr. Is it a smart decision or foolish? BKFC KnuckleMania 4 takes place this weekend, and “Platinum” Mike Perry takes center stage against MMA legend Thiago Alves. All this and more ...Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:46 – Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler set for UFC 302
8:14 – How will the fight be affected by being at welterweight?
15:02 – Will Michael Chandler choose to wrestle in this matchup?
18:56 – Jamahal Hill books quick return to face Khalil Rountree Jr.
26:25 – Has Luke Rockhold found a new home at Karate Combat?
29:21 – Mike Perry faces Thiago Alves at BKFC Knuckle Mania 4
36:36 – Chaos expected with Ben Rothwell vs. Todd Duffee
43:34 – Looking ahead to UFC on ESPN 55 and tee-ball dominance
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take a look back at an incredible UFC 300 event, where Alex Pereira impressed once again, Zhang Weili defended her strawweight title in impressive fashion, and Max Holloway absolutely stole the show with an incredible win over Justin Gathje, claiming the “Blessed Man Forever” belt and a $600K bonus check – and these were just three standout performances on a card full of incredible fights.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:09 – Max Holloway delivers “the most spectacular moment in UFC history”
8:41 – John relives his hilarious reaction from press row
11:07 – Crowd showed up early, fighters delivered with $300k bonuses up for grabs
17:05 – Zhang Weili defeats Yan Xiaonan under impossible conditions
18:22 – Alex Pereira creates more iconic moments in win over Jamahal Hill
25:18 – Hill’s critical mistake – did nerves play a factor?
29:29 – Is Jiri Prochazka next for Pereira?
35:30 – Paying homage to Kayla Harrison, Bo Nickal, and Arman Tsarukyan vs. Charles Oliveira
38:58 – Renato Moicano, Diego Lopes impress early
42:21 – Should the BMF belt be retired?
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down this weekend’s massive UFC 300 card. From top to bottom, this is undoubtedly the most stacked card the UFC has ever put together. The guys break down even the early prelims, on to the prelims, and then the main card and main event from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Does Alex Pereira have what it takes to defend his title against the former champ that never lost it in Jamahal Hill? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:35 – Eric’s revelation regarding UFC 300
4:40 – Coby Garbrandt a tempting underdog against Deiveson Figueiredo on early prelims
11:38 – Is Renato Moicano being disrespected against Jalin Turner
18:49 – Was Kayla Harrison vs. Holly Holm the right fight to make?
29:28 – Aljamain Sterling faces big test in move to 145 pounds with Calvin Kattar
33:27 – Bo Nickal kicking off the main card against Cody Brundage, like it or not
36:46 – Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan is Eric’s fight to watch
45:05 – Justin Gaethje and Max Holloway throwing down for the BMF belt
52:21 – Chinese talents collide with Zhang Weili vs. Yan Xiaonan
55:56 – Breaking down Alex Pereira vs. Jamahal Hill
1:08:36 – Don’t forget CFFC 131 on UFC Fight Pass this Friday night!
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan talk UFC Atlantic City and the eye pokes that caused all the controversy. Was the outcome of Chris Wiedman vs. Bruno Silva the right call? Hear why it couldn’t have been a no contest and what may have went down that lead to the unanimous decision. UFC announces a blockbuster for the promotion’s Saudi Arabia card in Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev. All this and more ...Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:38 – Chris Weidman vs. Bruno Silva was an absolute mess
9:49 – Gary Copeland found himself in a challenging predicament
15:35 – Building the case for an appeal
24:53 – The potential for a needed rule change
35:27 – Manon Fiorot bests Erin Blanchfield; now what?
41:10 – Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev official
47:35 - UFC 300 rapidly approaching
48:38 – Weekend recap from Las Vegas to Tupelo
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take a deep dive into what was UFC bitegate this past weekend at the Apex, as Igor da Silva Severino gets disqualified and then cut from the UFC as a result of biting his opponent, Andre Lima. What was he thinking? What was his motivation, and could there ever be a second chance for him? Meanwhile, “Thug” Rose Namajunas sets her path back to a title after her unanimous decision victory this past weekend. What are the guys’ top picks for the most anticipated fights at UFC 300? Hear them explain, and also discuss why people are wrong about criticizing the card. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:12 – Igor da Silva Severino makes headlines for all the wrong reasons after biting opponent
10:45 – Did Jeff Mullen, Chris Tognoni get it right at UFC on ESPN 53?
20:16 – Was Dana White justified in cutting da Silva Severino?
24:39 – Rose Namajunas victorious and makes case for her path to flyweight title shot
28:52 – Picking the guys’ most anticipated fights of UFC 300
39:37 – Why are people calling UFC 300 a disappointing lineup?
45:03 – Weekend preview
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down the misunderstood brilliance of Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul and why it will be the most watching boxing event of all-time. Additionally, the two look back at Marcin Tybura’s first-round submission of fellow UFC heavyweight Tai Tuivasa, look ahead to this weekend’s UFC on ESPN 53 headliner between Amanda Ribas and Rose Namajunas, while also offering up a quick preview of “Bellator Champions Series: Belfast” and the 2024 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
3:07 – Where do Marcin Tybura, Tai Tuivasa go after UFC Fight Night 239
11:31 – Amanda Ribas, Rose Namajunas have plenty on line this Saturday
21:37 – Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall clash in England – is a fight coming next?
30:01 – A quick chat on the future of Khabib Nurmagomedov
32:28 – Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul is going to capture massive mainstream attention
47:56 – Legendary trainer Rafael Cordeiro says Tyson preparing for more than a fight
50:30 – Bellator kicks off a new era this weekend
52:30 – Tune in for the 2024 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships and the hardest working student athletes in sports
On this episode, Eric and John recap UFC 299. “The Suga Show” was on full display with Sean O’Malley earning a masterful decision victory over Marlon Vera. What is next for O’Malley, and why the UFC may rethink a superfight with Ilia Topuria. Dustin Poirier withstands the early onslaught from Benoit Saint Denis and delivers a spectacular knockout. Is a title shot next for “The Diamond”? How bad was the knockout of Francis Ngannou, and what could be the fall out from it? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:02 – Sean O’Malley reigns supreme at UFC 299
6:41 – Is Ilia Topuria or Merab Dvalishvili next for O’Malley?
17:05 – Side note: What’s going on with Belal Muhammad
19:36 – Dustin Poirier takes out Benoit Saint Denis
24:32 – Saint Denis blames antibiotics for flat performance
29:16 – Poirier title shots and jumping the gilly
34:37 – What to make of Michael “Venom” Page
39:31 – Two potential names for “MVP next
44:45 – Francis Ngannou knocked out by Anthony Joshua
1:01:49 – Previewing the weekend
On this episode, Eric and John break down what is set to be a spectacular pay-per-view card with UFC 299 in Miami. Bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley vs. Marlon “Chito” Vera has all the makings of an absolute dog fight. Additionally, are the oddsmakers showing disrespect to the legend Dustin Poirier, or is Benoit Saint-Denis on his way to contend for lightweight gold? Former Bellator champ Michael “Venom” Page is set to make his promotional debut, and the UFC couldn’t have picked a better first opponent for him. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:05 – Monitoring the rise of Gamebred Baeknuckle MMA
10:50 – Differences in regulating bareknuckle combat sports
17:59 – Previewing “UFC 299: O’Malley vs. Vera 2”
23:19 – Can Marlon “Chito” Vera bully Sean O’Malley?
31:58 – Are we in for an absolute dogfight in the main event?
40:17 – Benoit Saint-Denis a surprisingly large favorite over Dustin Poirier
50:05 – Brilliant matchmaking with Kevin Holland vs. Michael “Venom” Page
59:07 – Don’t forget Friday night’s CFFC 130, with the return of CM Punk
On this episode, Eric and John cover what was a busy weekend in MMA. PFL vs. Bellator ended with Renan Ferreira reigning supreme over Ryan Bader in just 21 seconds, potentially setting up the fight that would bring Francis Ngannou back to MMA. On the same night at UFC Mexico City, Brandon Royval earned an upset victory over Brandon Moreno and called for a rematch with champ Alexandre Pantoja. Is Brian Ortega next in line for Ilia Topuria? Hear why we think so. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:58 – Was the PFL the biggest winner on a busy weekend in MMA?
8:54 – Francis Ngannou’s path back to MMA clear – or is it?
11:12 – Renan Ferreira saves face for the PFL against Bellator
15:02 – A.J. McKee and Aaron Pico deliver big
21:03 – Brandon Royval delivers big at UFC Mexico City
29:18 – Did Royval earn his rematch with Alexandre Pantoja?
32:54 – Brian Ortega may have made the biggest statement on Saturday
39:46 – Ortega vs. Ilia Topuria next – in Spain
46:07 – Looking ahead to UFC 299 and the return of Sean O’Malley
51:55 – UFC Fight Night 238, black belt wrist locks and much more
On this episode, Eric and John recap UFC 298, where new featherweight champion Ilia Topuria was laser focused. Was there any hangover for Alexander Volkanovski? Meanwhile, Merab Dvalishvili steamrolls “Triple C” and is now the clearcut No. 1 contender at bantamweight. Paulo Costa saw his stock rise in defeat, and Robert Whittaker is right back in title contention with a spectacular performance. Also, how good is Danny Barlow? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:40 – Ilia Topuria scintillating in title win
6:01 – What went wrong for Alexander Volkanovski?
15:45 – Would things go differently in a rematch?
26:57 – Merab Dvalishvili takes out Henry Cejudo
33:45 – Aljamain Sterling clears title picture
39:00 – Robert Whittaker brilliant, Paulo Costa dangerous
45:35 – Mackenzie Dern got that dog in her
48:04 – Ian Machado Garry outpoints Geoff Neal
52:53 – Danny Barlow spectacular in UFC debut
58:54 – Looking ahead to PFL vs. Bellator, UFC Fight Night 237
On this episode, Eric and John break down UFC 298. Will Alexander Volkanovski reign supreme, or will the skillset and confidence of Topuria make the difference? The No. 1 contender spot is on the line as Merab Dvalishvili takes on “Triple C,” Henry Cejudo, who has multiple paths to victory – but will cardio be the difference? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Diving right into an incredibly deep UFC 298
1:55 – Danny Barlow makes his UFC debut
4:46 – Looking at UFC’s pay-per-view lineup
9:07 – Recapping Jack Hermansson’s win over Joe Pyfer
12:28 – Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria a pick’ em matchup
20:18 – Topuria’s uncanny confidence a real factor
29:52 – Volkanovksi’s championship mindset undeniable
35:16 – Breaking down Merab Dvalishvili vs. Henry Cejudo
41:23 – Making the case for “Triple C”
48:23 – Dvalishvili a deserving favorite?
56:26 – What to expect with Geoff Neal vs. Ian Machado Garry
58:30 – Renato Moicano, CFFC 129, and an important birthday
On this episode, Eric and John break down Nassourdine Imavov’s UFC Fight Night 235 win over Roman Dolidze, including a few chaotic moments both in and out of the cage? They also take a look at what’s next for Imavov – and why it should absolutely be Chris Curtis – as well as the moment from the fight that serves as the perfect explanation for why MMA’s Unified Rules may soon be changed. Additionally, the pair previewsSaturday’s UFC Fight Night 236 event, where Joe Pyfer has a massive opportunity against a gritty veteran in Jack Hermansson. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:16 – Eric makes his official UFC debut
6:36 – Nassourdine Imavov earns a hard-fought decision win over Roman Dolidze
14:01 – Was round 1 deserving of a 10-8?
19:28 – Where does Imavov go from here, and why is it Chris Curtis?
21:44 – The definition of a grounded opponent – and the frustration that followed
31:20 – Previewing Jack Hermansson vs. Joe Pyfer
41:01 – Looking ahead to UFC 298 and Alexander Volkanovski vs. Ilia Topuria
48:24 – Elimination of fouls for 12-to-6 elbows in MMA
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan start looking forward to UFC 300, which is quickly becoming a blockbuster with the latest additions to the card. Will Kayla Harrison be successful in her octagon debut? Additionally, the guys discuss Jon Anik’s emotional week online and look forward to a busy weekend.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:32 – Kayla Harrison set to face Holly Holm at UFC 300
9:54 – Is Harrison facing a stylistic problem in Holm?
24:17 – Looking ahead to Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway
31:12 – Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan is the fight to watch
35:37 – Laying out Bo Nickal’s UFC path
45:12 – Jon Anik gets emotional, ultimately issues an apology
54:15 – CFFC Muay Thai, CFFC Match Day, and UFC Fight Night 235
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down the UFC 297 main event that saw Dricus Du Plessis gain a split-decision victory to become middleweight champion of the world. Was there a bit of controversy? Did Sean Strickland have an off night? Is Israel Adesanya the logical next fight for Du Plessis, or did Strickland earn an instant rematch? Raquel Pennington claims the vacant women’s bantamweight title and calls out Julianna Peña. Dana White goes viral in the post-fight press conference. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:51 – Did judges get it right in UFC 297's main event?
7:02 – What impacted Sean Strickland’s performance?
14:11 – Questions answered by Dricus Du Plessis
23:41 – What’s the fight to make for new champ Du Plessis?
27:41 – What makes sense for Strickland’s next move?
34:30 – Strickland goes viral for media day exchange
40:29 – Dana White defends fighters’ rights to free speech
45:58 – Does ESPN or Disney need to get involved?
49:25 - Raquel Pennington claims women’s bantamweight title
52:06 – PFL and Bellator hosting massive press conference
55:37 – Launching CFFC Muay Thai – and attending surprise parties
On this episode, Eric and John take a deep dive into the main event of UFC 297, where middleweight champion Sean Strickland defends his title vs. Dricus Du Plessis. Who is going to be the first one to take a back step? Will Strickland be able to withstand the early barrage, and what can we expect from the pre-fight press conference when these two personalities take the stage? Also on the show, Magomed Ankalaev’s second-round destruction, the timeless Jim Miller, and the PFL and Bellator announce their first show. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:13 – PFL and Bellator announce huge card for February 24
8:17 – Recapping Magomed Ankalaev’s big win over Johnny Walker
14:20 – Looking at the UFC’s light heavyweight title picture
20:51 – Jim Miller continued to defy Father Time
25:24 – Breaking down Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis
47:10 – Previewing the rest of UFC 297
On this episode, Eric and John dive into to some unresolved storylines leading off 2024, including who’s next for Islam Makhachev. Does Belal Muhammad get the next shot at champ Leon Edwards? Conor McGregor has announced his next fight, but the UFC has not. Why? Looking ahead to UFC Fight Night 234, then the big one with UFC 297 and Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:59 – Kicking off the UFC’s 2024 campaign
3:51 – Is Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad a sure thing?
6:47 – What makes the most sense for Justin Gaethje?
11:10 – Can Islam Makhachev (and Khabib Nurmagomedov) change all the plans?
19:05 – Do we trust Conor McGregor with his announcement?
25:09 – Looking at Jone Jones vs. Stipe Miocic – and Tom Aspinall
33:37 – UFC 299 gets Dustin Poirier vs. Benoit Saint Denis
36:32 – Is Sean O’Malley a star?
40:46 – Previewing Magomed Ankalaev vs. Johnny Walker
44:24 – Are we going to see Jim Miller at UFC 300?
47:07 – Looking ahead to Sean Strickland vs. Dricus Du Plessis
59:40 – Wild scenes in Mississippi
On this episode, Eric and John relieve a wildly entertaining 2023 in the sport of mixed martial arts. Who were the big winners in Fight of the Year, Knockout of the Year, Submission of the Year and Fighter of the Year? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:15 – Laying out the Year in Review Awards criteria
2:45 – Fight of the Year – and a disagreement!
18:56 – Knockout of the Year
33:45 – Submission of the Year
45:11 – Fighter of the Year
1:05:27 – Journalist of the Year? Referee of the Year?
Eric and John recap an intriguing UFC 296 card that was capped off with an odd decision win for welterweight champion Leon Edwards over heated rival Colby Covington. What happened, and where does Edwards go from here? Does Belal Muhammad or Shavkat Rakhmonov have the inside track? Of course, there was also action to recap outside of the cage with Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:00 – Leon Edwards wins, but what was Colby Covington doing?
8:48 – Did Covington have a case for winning more than one round?
13:42 – Belal Muhammad or Shavkat Rakhmonov?
23:45 – Is it time for Tony Ferguson to retire?
29:47 – Did Paddy Pimblett gain anything in victory?
31:40 – Josh Emmett scores scary knockout of Bryce Mitchell
35:36 – Sean Strickland and Dricus Du Plessis brawl in the crowd
Eric and John break down everything that’s coming up with his weekend’s massive “UFC 296: Edwards vs. Covington” event in Las Vegas, including welterweight champ Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington, as well as a loaded lineup from start to finish, including flyweight champ Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval, Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson, Tony Ferguson vs. Paddy Pimblett, Vicente Luque vs. Ian Machado Garry, and more.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:38 – Looking ahead to a stacked UFC 296 lineup
5:25 – Previewing Vicente Luque vs. Ian Machado Garry
10:58 – Leon Edwards favored to beat Colby Covington
14:46 – Why Eric thinks Colby Covington will win this fight
23:52 – Leon Edwards only has to be perfect once
32:48 – Breaking down Tony Ferguson vs. Paddy Pimblett
45:53 – Is Stephen Thompson too crafty for Shavkat Rakhmonov?
58:20 – Taking advantage of the best seat in the house
Eric and John break down everything that happened at UFC on ESPN 52, including Arman Tsarukyan’s stunning win over Beneil Dariush, Kerry Hatley’s stoppage in the Jalin Turner vs. Bobby Green matchup, big wins from Deiveson Figueiredo and Sean Brady, and much more.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:32 – Arman Tsarukyan delivers big in headliner
7:09 – Could we see Justin Gaethje next?
16:48 – Jalin Turner vs. Bobby Green ends in controversy
22:42 – Walking through Kerry Hatley’s stoppage
39:11 – Deiveson Figueiredo victorious in move to bantamweight
41:04 – Sean Brady absolutely dominant over Kelvin Gastelum
55:27 – Looking ahead to UFC Fight Night 233, ONE Fight Night 17
Eric and John break down the ins and outs of the Professional Fight League purchasing Bellator. What does this mean for both brands, as well as their television contracts, executives and talent? Looking ahead, the UFC is off and running with a jam-packed December, starting this week in Austin, Texas with Beneil Dariush vs. Arman Tsarukyan and culminating in the big one at UFC 296, Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington. All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:04 – Eric awarded his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt
8:01 – PFL announces the acquisition of Bellator – now what?
15:55 – Is one brand more valuable than the other, and how does that impact TV rights?
26:40 – Recapping the 2023 PFL World Championship
32:10 – UFC on ESPN 52 brings loaded lineup to Austin
41:52 – Looking ahead to UFC 296 and an intriguing pay-per-view
46:01 – Where is the smart money on Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington?
56:44 – Brave CF 78, CFFC Match Day, and more
Eric and John break down UFC 295, which provided the Madison Square Garden crowd with an incredibly memorable event, including Alex Pereira claiming his second UFC title in just his seventh fight for the promotion with a TKO win over Jiri Prochazka, as well as Tom Aspinall earning an interim heavyweight belt with a stunning knockout of Sergei Pavlovich. What does that mean for the idea of Jon Jones vs. Stipe Miocic? Additionally, Usman Nurmagomedov was suspended for six months by the California State Athletic Commission – but what do we know about the case?
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:25 – Recounting an incredible atmosphere in New York
2:29 – UFC now dominates the Madison Square Garden box office records
5:36 – Alex Pereira used disciplined approach to stun Jiri Prochazka
10:52 – Has Alex Pereira emerged as a true UFC star?
13:59 – An epic faceoff ahead of the UFC 295 main event
15:48 – Was there controversy in the stoppage?
23:23 – What process must a referee take in assessing stoppages?
30:51 – Will Israel Adesanya skip past Jamahal Hill for the next title shot?
36:49 – Tom Aspinall stuns Sergei Pavlovich
41:48 – New champ has real star potential, as well
46:51 – Will Tom Aspinall get his shot at Jon Jones?
53:17 – Laying out a potential International Fight Week blockbuster
58:39 – What to make of Bellator champ Usman Nurmagomedov’s suspension
1:04:04 – Shouting out the other great performances of UFC 295
On episode No. 54, Eric and John preview this weekend’s much-anticipated UFC 295 from Madison Square Garden. What could happen when devastating striker Alex Pereira takes on the man who never lost his title in Jiri Prochazka? Sergei Pavlovich looks to continue his knockout streak as he takes on the highly touted and skilled Tom Aspinall for the interim title. How do Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic play into the equation? All this, plus CFFC 127, CFFC Match Day, and more.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:13 – UFC 295 heads to Madison Square Garden
3:22 – Breaking down Jiri Prochazka vs. Alex Pereira
7:06 – Paths to victory for Prochazka and Pereira
16:52 – Checking out the odds for the UFC 295 headliner
25:47 – Previewing Sergei Pavlovich vs. Tom Aspinall
28:00 – How do Jon Jones, Stipe Miocic factor into the result
37:25 – Is this a real interim title fight or not?
47:38 – High stakes with Pat Sabatini vs. Diego Lopes
52:49 – Jailton Almeida fails to impress in win over Derrick Lewis
1:00:12 – Recapping CFFC 127 in Tunica
1:02:24 – CFFC Match Day and growing the sport of college wrestling
1:06:56 – Launching the “Cageside” QA
Eric and John discuss the fallout from Francis Ngannou vs. Tyson Fury and a result that nobody saw coming. But who ends up as the real winners and losers from the surprising split decision, and what happens to Ngannou’s contract with the PFL? Conor McGregor was among the myriad of stars on hand to soak it all in, and it seems like things are building nicely toward a UFC 300 encounter with Michael Chandler. The UFC visits Brazil this weekend with Jailton Almeida vs. Derrick Lewis, while CFFC Match Day gets underway this week, featuring NCAA Division I wrestling on UFC Fight Pass, not to mention Friday’s CFFC 127.
0:00 – Introduction
1:09 – Tyson Fury scores split-decision win over Francis Ngannou
4:45 – Was Ngannou robbed of a victory?
12:32 – The “White Men Can’t Jump” lesson of winners and losers
16:04 – How did this result impact the UFC?
21:11 – Will Ngannou compete in the PFL?
28:20 – Could a co-promoted event be a reality?
33:16 – Khamzat Chimaev doesn’t have a broken hand – is that a good thing?
42:53 – Conor McGregor makes waves in Saudi Arabia
49:45 – Jailton Almeida and Derrick Lewis at UFC Fight Night 231
55:50 – Looking ahead to CFFC 127 and CFFC Match Day
Eric and John break down the wild card that was UFC 294. Islam Makhachev stakes his claim on why he should be the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the world. Khamzat Chimaev wins via majority decision, but how we would have liked to see this fight a five-rounder. Should Johnny Walker have won by disqualification instead of having an illegal knee end in a no contest? Looking forward to the “Battle of the Baddest” when Francis Ngannou tries his hand at boxing vs. the great Tyson Fury.
0:00 – Introduction
1:20 – Islam Makhachev stops Alexander Volkanovski
5:20 – Is Makhachev the top pound-for-pound fighter on the planet?
7:59 – Don’t forget about Usman Nurmagomedov
10:30 – Is Charles Oliveira or Justin Gaethje next for Makhachev?
17:17 – Teasing a welterweight move, and remembering “Father’s Plan”
20:57 – Where does Volkanovski go from here?
23:52 – Who is the greatest featherweight of all-time?
29:53 - No, there were no illegal shots in the main event
31:22 – Khamzat Chimaev scores the biggest win of his career
37:52 – What to expect with Sean Strickland vs. Chimaev?
45:29 – Did Johnny Walker deserve a DQ win over Magomed Ankalaev?
54:32 – Looking ahead to Francis Ngannou vs. Tyson Fury
Eric and John give their takes on the Logan Paul vs. Dillon Danis fiasco over the weekend. Where does Danis go from here? The UFC 294 lineup underwent some major changes. Will Islam Makhachev change his approach to fighting Alexander Volkanovski this time around? Are we more or less excited about the new co-main event of Kamaru Usman vs. Khamzat Chimaev?
0:00 – Introduction
1:52 – Logan Paul and Dillon Danis steal the weekend headlines
11:03 – Why was Danis the one disqualified?
15:56 – Has “influencer boxing” actually had a positive impact on combat sports?
23:05 – Can Dillon Danis go to the UFC?
29:12 – Edson Barboza’s earns incredible comeback at UFC Fight Night 230
33:37 – Previewing UFC 294 in Abu Dhabi, and Islam Makhachev vs. Alexander Volkanovski
42:41 – Is Kamaru Usman taking too big of a risk against Khamzat Chimaev?
56:45 – The UFC parts ways with USADA
1:02:35 – Recapping a fun night at CFFC 126
Eric and John break down Bellator 300 and the dominance of Usman Nurmagomedov. Which promotion has the best lightweight in the world? Bobby Green only needs 33 seconds to take out Grant Dawson at UFC Fight Night 229. Are we looking at a UFC 300 return for Conor McGregor? Looking ahead to UFC 294, and a key matchup at middleweight.
0:00 – Introduction
1:01 – Eric’s debut assignment at Dana White’s Contender Series
11:16 – Usman Nurmagomedov dominates at Bellator 300
17:03 – Who is the best lightweight in the world?
22:01 – Cris Cyborg dominates Cat Zingano
29:39 – Bobby Green scores shocking finish of Grant Dawson
34:35 – Conor McGregor back in time for UFC 300
40:59 – Dana White says flags are back in the UFC
46:17 – Looking ahead to UFC 294 and Khamzat Chimaev vs. Paulo Costa
56:36 – Celebrating a milestone
1:00:44 – Previewing CFFC 126
Eric and John talk UFC Fight Night 228. Labeled a fight to add a new contender in the 155-pound division, the main event ends with disappointment as Mateusz Gamrot defeats Rafael Fiziev via TKO due to injury. Bryce Mitchell grapples his way to a unanimous decision but then goes full Bryce Mitchell after the fight. Should fighters bring their kids to the fight? Michelle Waterson-Gomez’s daughter had to endure watching her mother battered and bloodied. Also, Eric makes a big announcement.
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
2:19 – What did Mateusz Gamrot earn with TKO win over Rafael Fiziev?
6:34 – Bryce Mitchell steals the show following win over Dan Ige
14:37 – Michael Bisping finds himself in very odd position
24:06 – Michelle Waterson-Gomez endures painful loss in front of daughter
31:31 – Should Waterson-Gomez’s fight have been stopped sooner?
38:17 – Chris Leben makes judging debut in Las Vegas
41:32 – Should more former fighters become MMA judges?
48:15 – Johnny Eblen victorious at Bellator 299
51:22 – UFC 296 lineup fills, including Tony Ferguson vs. Paddy Pimblett
55:34 – Memphis fighters Danny Barlow and Raheam Forest clash on Tuesday
59:59 – Eric receives his first referee assignment in Las Vegas
Eric and John break down the historic victory by Sean Strickland and how he used masterful, suffocating pressure to dominate the fight with Israel Adesanya. Who’s next up for the new champ? We lay out three potential options for the UFC. Can Alexa Grasso retain her strap in a rematch against “The Bullet,” Valentina Shevchenko, at Saturday’s Noche UFC, or is there a changing of the guard? Also, what is there to watch for this Friday at Cage Fury Fighting Championships on UFC Fight Pass?
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:44 – Sean Strickland beats Israel Adesanya
2:13 – Revisiting Eric’s pre-fight analysis
6:05 – Marc Goddard ensures there’s no controversy
13:52 – An Anderson Silva-like performance?
20:01 – Strickland’s mental warfare, Eric Nicksicks’s impressive support
23:28 – One of MMA’s greatest upsets
30:52 – What’s next for Strickland?
40:10 – Alexander Volkov’s historic Ezekiel choke
42:23 – Chepe Mariscal remains one of Eric’s favorite prospects
45:14 – Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko 2 set for Saturday
50:26 – Previewing CFFC 125
On Episode No. 46, Eric and John discuss the fire fight that was Max Holloway vs. Chan Sung Jung. “The Blessed Express” keeps chugging along, while the “The Korean Zombie” lays down his gloves and retires – is he a UFC Hall of Famer? Erin Blanchfield just keeps winning and wants a title shot, but the guys discuss who could be standing in her way. UFC Fight Night 226 takes place in Paris this Saturday. Can Ciryl Gane keep the distance and use his pinpoint striking to get back on the winning track? Also, it’s only two weeks away from Israel Adesanya vs. Sean Strickland at UFC 293. Does Strickland have a style to give Adesanya fits, or is he a tailor-made opponent?
0:00 – Introduction
2:06 – Max Holloway vs. “The Korean Zombie” delivered on entertainment value
9:11 – Is Chan Sung Jung worthy of the UFC Hall of Fame?
20:20 – Was there controversy in Anthony Smith’s win over Ryan Spann?
28:33 – Erin Blanchfield racks up another win; is a title shot next?
33:08 – Is Ciryl Gane in a must-win situation against Sergey Spivak?
39:18 – Looking ahead to Israel Adesanya vs. Sean Strickland
49:54 – CFFC doubleheader and the World Master IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship 2023
Eric and John recap the incredible performance of “Suga” Sean O’Malley, who claimed the UFC bantamweight title with a thrilling second-round TKO of Aljamain Sterling at UFC 292 in Boston. What were the keys to his performance? Was there controversy in the stoppage? What comes next? Taking a look at the main event fallout from all angles, as well as the other storylines from the latest UFC pay-per-view.
0:00 – Introduction
1:39 – Sean O’Malley defeats Aljamain Sterling in virtuoso performance
7:12 – The moment things went wrong for the ‘Funk Master’
16:38 – O’Malley style perfectly suited for the challenge
21:50 – Was Marc Goddard’s stoppage controversial?
31:45 – Is O’Malley the heir to the Conor McGregor throne?
37:57 – Does a rematch with Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera make sense?
40:24 – Zhang Weili dominates Amanda Lemos
42:28 – Ian Machado Garry punishes Neil Magny
44:10 – Brad Tavares scores emotion-filled victory over Chris Weidman
50:06 – Brad Katona vs. Cody Gibson an instant classic in ‘TUF 31’ final
On Episode No. 44, Eric and John recap a busy weekend that included UFC on ESPN 51, Bellator 298, and the pro debut of an MMA legend’s son at United Fight League 3. Additionally, the two look forward to this weekend’s UFC 292 event in Boston, where reigning bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling puts his title on the line against a budding superstar in Sean O’Malley.
0:00 – Introduction
1:08 – Integrating MMA into family life
5:10 – What’s next after Vicente Luque’s win over Rafael dos Anjos?
16:52 – Cub Swanson picks up a controversial decision win
18:54 – Khalil Rountree Jr. with a statement win over Chris Daukaus
21:12 – Da’Mon Blackshear with an ultra-rare twister submission
23:59 – The importance of supporting regional MMA
26:33 – Recapping the action at Bellator 298
28:16 – Raja Jackson, son of “Ramapage,” makes pro debut
35:50 – Previewing Aljamain Sterling vs. Sean O’Malley at UFC 292
Eric and John discuss a wild weekend in combat sports. Jake Paul does it again, as he takes out another MMA legend in Nate Diaz by unanimous decision. Was Diaz’s stock hurt at all with this loss? Will they run in back in MMA, and what are the hurdles in making that happen? UFC on ESPN 50 from Nashville was a banger of a card, but the main event left everyone a little disappointed. Were the crowd and viewers at home justified in booing Cory Sandhagen and Rob Font? Does Tatiana Suarez get the next shot at the strap after an ultra-impressive second round submission over Jessica Andrade?
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:53 – Eric’s work at UFC on ESPN 50
4:40 – Jake Paul outpoints Nate Diaz
9:56 – What does Nate Diaz do next?
16:14 – Did Nate Diaz’s stock drop with this loss?
19:39 – Cory Sandhagen beats Rob Font
25:01 – Was the crowd right to boo the main event in Nashville?
31:05 - Recapping a thrilling preliminary card
36:21 – Should Tatiana Suarez fight for a title next?
42:31 – Is Diego Lopes a UFC star in the making?
45:53 – Recapping 2023 PFL 7 from San Antonio
48:17 – Lookin ahead to Aljamain Sterling vs. Sean O’Malley at UFC 292
Eric and John relive a wild UFC 291 from Utah. Justin Gaethje pulls off another Salt Lake City head-kick heard ’round the world as he defeats Dustin Poirier for the BMF title. Alex Pereira squeaks out a split-decision victory over Jan Blachowicz. Is Pereira in line to compete with Jiri Prochazka for the vacant light heavyweight title? “The Black Beast,” Derrick Lewis, pulls off a spectacular victory, but was his celebration even more memorable? Tony Ferguson drops his sixth straight, but did we see flashes of the old Tony?
0:00 – Introduction
1:36 – A special environment in Salt Lake City
3:06 – Justin Gaethje knocks out Dustin Poirier to claim BMF title
9:35 – The importance of Trevor Wittman
17:47 – What’s next for Justin Gaethje?
24:53 – Alex Pereira takes split-decision from Jan Blachowicz
29:25 – Is Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka the fight to make?
34:22 – Massive win for “The Black Beast”
39:35 – Tony Ferguson falls short again
47:09 – Bellator x Rizin 2
50:06 – Looking ahead to UFC on ESPN 50
On this episode, Eric and John discuss what to expect between Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury. Will it be competitive? How successful will be at the box office? Additionally, what is there to make of Jamahal Hill getting injured in a pickup basketball game and giving up his UFC light heavyweight title? How will the UFC crown a new champion? Mayra Bueno Silva makes a statement with a win over Holly Holm, Cage Fury Fighting Championships highlights some incredible up-and-comers in Memphis, the UFC returns to London for Tom Aspinall vs. Marcin Tybura.
0:00 – Introduction
1:31 – Tyson Fury vs. Francis Ngannou set for October – is it a big deal?
4:55 – Chael Sonnen calls Tyson Fury a scumbag
11:18 – Similarities to Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor
16:57 – Raheam Forest’s incredible performance at CFFC 121
25:12 – Danny Barlow makes case for UFC call
29:47 – Mayra Bueno Silva shocks Holly Holm
32:20 – Did Mayra Bueno Silva earn a title shot?
36:13 – Jamahal Hill suffers devastating injury
40:05 – Who will fight for the UFC’s light heavyweight title?
42:22 – Looking ahead to Dustin Poirier vs. Justin Gaethje
54:22 – Previewing UFC Fight Night 224 and CFFC 122
On this episode, Eric and John discuss the card of the year that was UFC 290. Alexander Volkanovski was flawless in victory. Where does he go from here? Is moving to the lightweight division the right move? Alexandre Pantoja wins an epic clash vs. Brandon Moreno to become the new flyweight champion. Does this fight rank up there with the all-time greats? Dricus Du Plessis shocked the world with a TKO victory over Robert Whittaker, but the drama didn’t end there. Could the build up to a ‘DDP’ vs. Israel Adesanya title fight be a bit uncomfortable? All this and more ...
Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:23 – Looking back at an incredible UFC 290 event
2:09 – Alexander Volkanovski dominates in latest title defense
8:20 – What’s next for Alexander Volkanovski?
13:33 – Alexandre Pantoja shines in win over Brandon Moreno
18:56 – The latest judging controversy?
24:26 – What’s next for Alexandre Pantoja?
26:53 – Alexandre Pantoja’s painful moment
30:26 – Dricus Du Plessis shocks Robert Whittaker, and the world
35:42 – Israel Adesanya makes a controversial appearance
42:08 – Dan Hooker outlasts Jalin Turner
43:17 – Bo Nickal stays perfect after beating Val Woodburn
47:11 – Josiah Harrell makes shocking discovery
50:08 – Robbie Lawler retires in style
56:12 – Previewing CFFC 121 in Tunica, Mississippi
59:05 – Eric’s experience working a UFC event in Las Vegas
1:05:06 – The best athletes in the UFC might not be in the cage
On this episode, Eric and John discuss how big a Mark Zuckerberg vs. Elon Musk fight could really be, who would have the advantage, and the hurdles that may come up trying to book the fight. Ilia Topuria picks apart Josh Emmett at UFC on ABC 5. Should Emmett’s corner have thrown in the towel? Maycee Barber makes it five in a row after an ultra-impressive victory over Amanda Ribas, and possibly the worst eye-poke of all time.
On this episode, Eric takes center stage as his worlds collide in a very unexpected fashion, with MMA superstar Conor McGregor sending the mascot from the NBA’s Miami Heat to the hospital following an on-court bit gone wrong. John’s along for the ride as Eric breaks it all down, including a recommendation for how the whole situation should have played out.Additionally, the guys talk about this past weekend’s UFC 289, where double champ Amanda Nunes announced her retirement following a dominant victory over Irene Aldana. They also talk about the wild scenes that unfolded at an exhibition boxing match between Floyd Mayweather and John Gotti III, as well as look ahead to this weekend’s UFC Fight Night 225, Bellator 297 and CFFC 120 events.
0:00 – Intro
0:49 – Conor McGregor knocks out Miami Heat mascot
6:09 – McGregor’s reaction, and what went wrong
13:39 – How Eric would have scripted the McGregor appearance
23:03 – Was the moment too big for Irene Aldana at UFC 289?
26:58 – Amanda Nunes retires in memorable fashion
33:00 – Did Charles Oliveira earn another fight with Islam Makhachev?
41:13 – Chaos reigns at Floyd Mayweather vs. John Gatti III
48:06 – Looking ahead to Bellator 297 with Vadim Nemkov vs. Yoel Romero
50:35 – Previewing UFC Fight Night 225 and Marvin Vettori vs. Jared Cannonier
52:00 – Teasing CFFC 120 and CM Punk’s return to AEW
On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan discuss the controversial split decision victory for Amir Albazi this past weekend at the UFC Apex. Is there a need for more transparency with the judges? Jim Miller faces a late replacement and knocks him him in 23 seconds. What was all the controversy behind Jared Gordon being pulled from that fight just days before?Additionally, it’s UFC 289 fight week, with Amanda Nunes vs. Irene Aldana. Could Mexico possibly get another UFC champion? What to expect with Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush in what’s widely accepted as a No. 1 contender fight. Last but not least, John asks Dana White if he is concerned about the Conor McGregor vs Michael Chandler fight happening, and – well, you need to hear it for yourself.
Timecodes
0:00 – Intro
1:22 – Was Amir Albazi vs. Kai Kara-France a robbery?
4:30 – What is a significant strike?
10:22 – Was Israel Adesanya right?
15:02 – Can commissions be more transparent?
19:42 – Alex Caceres vs. Daniel Pineda
22:14 – Jim Miller’s big win, and Jared Gordon’s big controversy
28:22 – Than dangers of concussions in MMA
33:40 – Previewing Amanda Nunes vs. Irene Aldana at UFC 289
39:18 – The people’s main event: Charles Oliveira vs. Beneil Dariush
43:11 – Will Conor McGregor actually fight Michael Chandler?
Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou has struck a landmark deal with the PFL that gives “The Predator” much more than just a new place to fight. What does it mean for him, and can the PFL make it work? UFC president Dana White doesn’t think so. John and Eric break it all down, as well as discussing the return of the BMF title with Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje.
On this episode, Eric and John discuss Conor McGregor and his fighting future ahead of the debut of “The Ultimate Fighter 31.” They also look at Jailton Almeida’s big win at UFC on ABC 4, while also looking at wins from Johnny Walker, Matt Brown and more. Fabian Edwards was victorious at Bellator 296 and could join his brother Leon Edwards as the champion of a major promotion.
00:00 Cageside with John Morgan
01:40 MMA The Early Years
4:15 The Howl
6:45 Rampages First Ever Fight
10:00 Best Career Highlight
14:30 Rampage Jr now fighting
17:10 United Fight League
On this episode, Eric and John take a deep dive into UFC 288. The guys go back and forth on who they believe won the title fight between Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo. Belal Muhammad looked dominant in his victory, but did Gilbert Burns have a compromised shoulder coming into the fight? Movsar Evloev remains undefeated, but Eric and John were ultra impressed with newcomer Diego Lopez.
On this episode, Eric and John discuss a wild night at BKFC that saw Mike Perry defeat Luke Rockhold, then had Conor McGregor jump in the ring. The guys preview a massive UFC 288 card and break down where the best chances of victory lie for Aljamain Sterling and Henry Cejudo. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John relive another massive first-round knockout by Sergei Pavlovich and why he should wait for his title shot. Bellator 295 delivered with a Patchy Mix first-round knockout and $1 million pay day. How excited are we for the upcoming UFC 288 card, with Aljamain Sterling vs. Henry Cejudo? And finally, possibly the card of the weekend – the BKFC 41 with pay-per-view with Mike Perry vs. Luke Rockhold and Eddie Alvarez vs Chad Mendes.
On this Episode, Eric and John break down down a vintage performance from Max Holloway at UFC on ESPN 44, and discuss why Dana White was upset with Clay Guida. Revealing all you need to know about a busy upcoming week in MMA. Why haven’t we heard about Francis Ngannou making a decision on his future? Finally, Jake Paul vs Nate Diaz is confirmed. Is this the right decision for Jake Paul? All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John relive a wildly entertaining UFC 287 from Miami, Florida. Israel Adesanya finally turns the table over his longtime rival Alex Pereira. Jorge Masvidal calls it a career after 20 years in the fight game. What will be his legacy? Previewing UFC on ESPN 44's main event between Max Holloway and Arnold Allen.
On the episode, Eric and John discuss a blockbuster merger by UFC parent company Endeavor, as well as recap Bellator 293 and the amazing scrap between Cat Zingano and Leah McCourt. Additionally, it’s fight week, and Eric and John break down the massive UFC 287 card, outlining the paths to victory for Israel Adesanya and whether Alex Pereira will defy the odds again and add another knockout to his resume. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and Jon break down another massive UFC pay-per-view and a masterful performance by Leon Edwards, who defeated Kamaru Usman once again. Justin Gaethje takes home another ‘Fight of the Night’ bonus, giving him 11 performance bonuses in his octagon run, and the guys discuss how many potential UFC Hall of Fame fights ‘The Highlight’ could end his career with. Is Colby Covington deserving of the next shot at the UFC welterweight title?
On this episode, Eric and John recap a few impressive performances, including Usman Nurmagomedov’s win over Benson Henderson, as well as Merab Dvalishvili shutting out Petr Yan. They also look ahead to this weekend’s UFC 286 event, including Leon Edwards vs. Kamaru Usman and Justin Gaethje vs. Rafael Fiziev.
On this episode, Eric and John recap an incredibly eventful UFC 285, including a masterful performance from Jon Jones that secured his spot as history’s top pound-for-pound fighter. The two also look forward to a big weekend that includes the launch of a lightweight grand prix at Bellator 292, as well as a massive headliner at UFC Fight Night 221.
On this, episode Eric and John are giddy about UFC 285 and the return of Jon Jones. They discus where Jones and Ciryl Gane each may have an advantage in the fight and their clearest paths to victory. Additionally, the UFC goes above and beyond for Stephan Bonnar’s celebration of life, and a ton of MMA news from the weekend and more.
One this episode, Eric and John recap a brilliant performance from 23-year-old Erin Blanchfield, preview a busy week of action with ONE Fight Night 7, Bellator 291 and UFC Fight Night 220, while also looking ahead to a spectacular UFC 285, which includes the official debut of Bo Nickal.
On this episode, Eric and John discuss the absolutely incredible fight between Islam Makhachev and Alexander Volkanovski that headlined UFC 284 in Australia. With the result, who deserves to be pound-for-pound No. 1 in the sport? Yair Rodriguez had a big win. Jens Pulver is heading to the UFC Hall of Fame. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John say farewell to the iconic Fedor Emelianenko. Then, its finally here: The pound-for-pound No. 1 spot is on the line at UFC 284 when Islam Makahachev puts his lightweight title on the line vs. featherweight great Alexander Volkanovski. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John break down the latest headlines from across the sport, including the upcoming rematch between Alex Pereira and Israel Adesanya at UFC 287, as well as another big fight with Gilbert Burns vs. Jorge Masvidal. Conor McGregor, Mike Perry, Bella Mir and more are discussed, as well this weekend’s Bellator 290 and the retirement of true MMA legend Fedor Emelianenko. All this and more …
On this episode, Eric and John dive deep into the situation that ultimately led to Francis Ngannou parting ways with the UFC. Is Ciryl Gane a tougher matchup for Jon Jones? UFC 283 is in Brazil this Saturday. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John discuss one of the most difficult weeks in recent memory for MMA fans, where fights were unfortunately not the main focus. From the passing of Kevin Alires and Victoria Lee, to the arrest of Phil Baroni, and the controversy surrounding Dana White. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John review a memorable Bellator MMA vs. Rizin event from Japan while also looking forward to the most exciting matchups we might see in 2023. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John review a memorable Bellator MMA vs. Rizin event from Japan while also looking forward to the most exciting matchups we might see in 2023. All this and more ...
On this episode, Eric and John narrow down a long list of memorable moments in mixed martial arts from 2022. With so many to choose from, which ones made the top 5? All this and more...
On this episode, Eric and John break down UFC 282 and Bellator 289, as well as the judging controversies that accompanied both events. Additionally, John sits down with former light heavyweight champion Glover Teixeira ahead of his title fight at UFC 283. All this and more ...
On this week’s episode, Eric and John recap an incredibly entertaining UFC on ESPN 42 event, discuss the pending investigation involving veteran fighter and coach James Krause, and look ahead to this weekend’s Bellator 289 and UFC 282 events. All this and more …
On this week’s episode Eric and John discuss the big upset of Kayla Harrison, as well as the multiple million-dollar winners from the 2022 PFL World Championship. There’s breaking news from an exclusive John Morgan interview, and the guys look forward to a fun UFC Fight Night card. All this and more ...
On today's episode Eric and John talk about possibly the UFC Fight Pass “Fight of the Year” that took place at CFFC 115. Nearly all the big promotions were active this past weekend, and the big takeaways were broken down. Lastly, it’s World Cup time, so Eric and John decided to draft their own MMA World Cup teams. All this and more ..
On today's episode: UFC 281 lived up to they hype. Eric and John break down Alex Pereira’s upset over Isreal Adesanya. Was Dustin Poirier vs. Michael Chandler one of the greatest first rounds of all time? Huge weekend of MMA coming up and shockingly, a legend passes away. All this and more ...
On today's episode: UFC Fight Week is finally here!!! Eric and John can’t control their excitement in breaking down the upcoming UFC 281 from Madison Square Garden. Does Israel Adesanya reign supreme again, or does his old adversary Alex Pereira best him in MMA like he did twice in kickboxing? All this and more …
On today's episode: did Jake Paul break the hearts of all MMA fans? Eric and John break down the spectacle that was Paul vs. Anderson Silva. UFC Fight Night 213 ended in injury, but Arnold Allen showed why he is a force in the featherweight division, plus we’re only two weeks away from UFC 281. All this and more ...
On today's episode Eric and John break down the megacard which was UFC 280 – the controversy, the injury and the domination. Plus, will Anderson Silva hold it down for all the MMA fans this weekend when he takes on YouTube sensation turned power puncher Jake Paul? All this and more ...
On today's episode Eric and John can’t contain their excitement as they preview the huge card that is UFC 280 this Saturday. Is Charles Olivera being disrespected, or is the future now for Islam Makhachev? All this and more ...
On today's episode John Morgan takes us step-by-step oh how his career took shape from restaraunt GM to now widely regarded as the best MMA journalist/personality in the game. All this and more…
On today's episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down the excitement that was Bellator 286. Mackenzie Dern comes up short at UFC Fight Night 211, but what constitutes a 10-8 round? How fun is ONE Championship? All this and more ...
On today's episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap Bellator 285 and the retirement of an all-time feared knockout artists. With that inspiration, they each list their 3 favorite knockout artists of all time. Additionally, John Morgan catches up with rising super star Aaron Pico ahead of his Bellator 286 showdown this Saturday. This weekend features ONE FC, Bellator and UFC, and the guys preview it all and more...
On today's episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan pay tribute and recount their favorite moments from Jose Aldo’s legendary career. They also dive deep into the CUTS that defined UFC Fight Night 201, preview the return of Bellator and Benson Henderson – as Eric recalls a harrowing moment with the multi-time world champ – talk Gordon Ryan at ADCC, and much more.
On today's episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan take you on a wild ride with details surrounding the chaos that unfolded before UFC 279, while also looking ahead to UFC Fight Night 210, paying tribute to Elias Theodorou, and much more.
On today's episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan take a deep dive into UFC Fight Night Paris, including the night’s biggest winners and losers, as well as a touch of controversy. They also look ahead to Saturday’s UFC 279. Which gangster will reign supreme? Also, who is the welterweight GOAT?!
On todays Episode John Morgan and Eric McMahon look back at the high kick heard around the world. what is next for the champ Leon Edwards. Demetrious Johnson shows once again why he is the featherweight goat. Preview the upcoming UFC Paris fight card and so much more...
On todays Episode John Morgan and Eric McMahon give us a preview of what we can expect when Cageside with John Morgan launches.