Combat sports news covering UFC, boxing matches, fight results, fighter rankings, and mixed martial arts analysis.
This commentary argues that Katie Taylor's upcoming fight at Croke Park represents the crowning achievement of her career, surpassing even her Olympic gold and Madison Square Garden bout. It contends that the event is a historic moment for Irish sport, highlighting Taylor's role in breaking barriers for women's boxing.
The author recounts attending a UFC event in New York headlined by Chinese fighter Zhang Weili, contrasting the fighters' reserved professionalism with expectations of trash talk. The piece argues that Zhang Weili serves as a feminist icon in China for challenging gender norms, and reflects on the inclusive nature of MMA culture.
UFC CEO Dana White pushed back against Joe Rogan's characterization of the upcoming White House event as a 'gimmick', calling it the greatest thing for MMA. White emphasized the event features real stakes, including Alex Pereira possibly winning a third world title and surpassing Jon Jones as the greatest of all time.
UFC champion Sean Strickland criticized the promotion for paying fighters a far lower revenue share than other major sports leagues. He argued that fighter pay will not improve due to a surplus of willing competitors and claimed it is reducing the number of American fighters in the UFC.
This commentary previews the Zuffa Boxing 07 cruiserweight fight between Chris Billam-Smith and Ryan Rozicki, arguing that the winner is likely to earn a title shot against champion Jai Opetaia. It analyzes both fighters' recent performances and career trajectories, suggesting the bout is a crucial stepping stone in the division.
Las Vegas Raiders defensive end Maxx Crosby plans to attend the UFC fight at the White House on June 14, celebrating America's 250th anniversary. Crosby voiced support for fighter Justin Gaethje and said he would consider playing flag football for Team USA at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Daniel Cormier endorsed Justin Gaethje's trash talk targeting Ilia Topuria's divorce ahead of their UFC Freedom 250 title fight. Cormier said the banter enhances the bout, especially given the White House setting and event magnitude.
Eddie Hearn announced a massive farewell fight for Katie Taylor at Croke Park in Ireland, calling it the biggest female boxing event of all time. Taylor had retired four or five months ago but returned after Croke Park became available. The event is set for September 5, 2026.
This commentary argues that Ilia Topuria is the best undefeated fighter in MMA, highlighting his perfect record and finishing rate in title fights. It contends that Topuria's dominance against top opponents sets a high bar, while also ranking other undefeated fighters like Usman Nurmagomedov and Movsar Evloev based on their resumes and potential.