UFC Heavyweight Division Update

The UFC heavyweight division is suddenly as turbulent as a Las Vegas slot machine on a hot streak. With Jon “Bones” Jones still holding the official title, Tom Aspinall reigning as interim champion, and a recent newsworthy dust-up involving a Russian TV brawl, it’s clear this weight class is miles from settling into any kind of serenity. Let’s break it down:

Still King in Name: Jon Jones’ Lingering Reign

Jon Jonesthe most decorated light heavyweight champion of all timeremains the undisputed UFC heavyweight champion on paper. But that’s where it stops. The reality is that Jones hasn’t fought since capturing the belt in March 2023, and due to injuries and purse negotiations (and maybe a sprinkle of indecision), there has been zero octagon activity on his end since.

While no one dares deny Jones’ legacy, fans and fellow fighters are growing restless. The UFC has stood firm in its plan to match him up with former champ Stipe Miocica battle of legends, sure, but one that’s moving slower than Khabib’s intentional pace in round one.

The People’s Champ: Tom Aspinall Threads the Needle

Enter Tom Aspinallthe British bulldozer who claimed the interim strap after an electric first-round KO over Sergei Pavlovich last year at UFC 295. Aspinall’s technical skill set is arguably the most dangerous in the heavyweight division: a black belt on the ground and a sniper’s aim on the feet. At just 31, he’s the kind of champion the division can build a dynasty around.

Aspinall has made his frustrations public more than once. “I want to fight Jon Jones. Period,” he’s declared repeatedly. But that golden ticket has yet to be punched, leaving fans wondering whether he’ll be stuck in interim purgatory indefinitely, or if the UFC will finally pull the cord and make Aspinall vs. Jones the real heavyweight championship showdown.

Tom Aspinall vs. Curtis Blaydes: The Real Fight Confirmed

While Jones continues to bide time and Miocic teases a swan song, the UFC has booked Tom Aspinall against a familiar foe in Curtis Blaydes for UFC 304 in Manchester, England. Many fans might remember their first meeting couldn’t get past the first round due to Aspinall suffering a freak knee injury just seconds in.

Now, with both athletes healthy and stakes higher than ever, the rematch offers a definitive chance to prove who belongs at the very top, at least until Jones decides to clock back into workspace violence. Aspinall will surely go into this one motivated to not only erase the memory of his injury but also to make a statement loud enough for even “Bones” to hear.

Meanwhile in Moscow: Russian TV Turns Cage-y

In a scene that could have been ripped straight from the scripts of WWE SmackDown, Russian MMA analyst and former fighter Islam Makhachev was at the center of a chaotic brawl on live television. The wild segment unfolded during a heated broadcast debate segmentthink “First Take” with fistsand quickly spiraled into pushing, shoving, and flying fists as tempers boiled over.

While not directly related to the UFC, the viral moment underscores just how volatile and passionate fight fans and fighters can be outside the octagon. MMA remains the world’s most unpredictable sport, not just inside the cage but pretty much anywhere people talk about it.

Unanswered Questions in the Heavyweight Air

• Will the Jones-Miocic bout ever materialize, or is it all just smoke and mirrors?
• If Aspinall defeats Blaydes, will the UFC strip Jones and unify the belts?
• Could Aspinall’s activity and skill force Jones into a now-or-never situation?
• And what about rising names like Jailton Almeida or Sergei Pavlovich lurking in the shadows?

The heavyweight division is on the verge of either a massive shakeup or another year of holding patterns. Either way, 2024 promises to turn intrigue into action. The fans are hungry, and the belt can’t be vacant of clarity for much longer.

Final Word: Let the Best Man Reign

This division has it allgrizzled legends, hungry prospects, injuries, egos, and one very patient interim champ. Whether you’re Team Jones or riding the Aspinall express, one thing is clear: the UFC heavyweight division may be in flux, but it’s absolutely compelling drama every step of the way.

Whatever happens at UFC 304and beyondone thing is certain: the throne is up for grabs, and someone’s getting knocked off it.

UFC Introduces Points System

The Ultimate Fighting Championship is shaking up the fight game once again, and no, this time it doesn’t involve another BMF belt. In a bold pivot towards transparency and structured talent acquisition, the UFC has officially implemented a points-based systemeerily reminiscent of the PFL’s playoff-style formatto determine contract offers for new prospects. Some fans are calling it forced meritocracy; others see the ghost of Dana White’s Contender Series growing increasingly corporate.

A New Era for Prospect Evaluation

Announced earlier this week, the UFC’s new points system aims to quantify fighter performance and potential with a structured framework. Think of it as fantasy MMA, but the stakes are very real contractsand careerson the line. According to UFC officials, factors such as win streaks, finishes, strength of opponents, short-notice availability, and even social media traction will now feed into a proprietary scoring algorithm.

“It’s about leveling the playing field,” said one UFC matchmaker under anonymity. “We’re seeing a tidal wave of global talent, and this system lets us evaluate it with more precision than ever before.”

If It Ain’t Broke, Make It Quantifiable

The UFC has often prided itself on gut-instinct matchmaking, unfiltered post-fight interviews, and the kind of wild-card stories that gave us household names like The Korean Zombie and Paddy Pimblett. But this move hints at the company’s growing appetite for efficiency and dataa nod to the modern sports world where metrics matter almost as much as moments.

This isn’t just numbers for numbers’ sake, however. Fighters like Bo Nickal and Raul Rosas Jr.themselves products of scouting shows and algorithm-worthy hypeare emblematic of the UFC’s future. Now, instead of relying solely on the mystique of a viral knockout or a boisterous callout, the promotion is adding a digital backbone to talent funneling.

Breaking Down the Points

While the UFC hasn’t revealed the exact scoring matrix (because of course they haven’t), sources close to the promotion have offered a rough blueprint of how aspiring fighters will be graded. Think:

• Win-Streak Multiplier: Consecutive wins receive increasing point values.
• Finish Bonus: Submissions and knockouts score significantly higher than decisions.
• Short-Notice Fights: Stepping in last-minute earns extra credit.
• Opponent Caliber: Beating a top prospect counts more than squashing a regional journeyman.
• Marketability Points: Like it or not, a bit of razzle-dazzle (a.k.a. social media buzz) gets you noticed.

In other words, it’s not just how you fight. It’s who you fight, when you fight them, and how many people care when you do. And somewhere, Nate Diaz has probably just rolled his eyes into another dimension.

Echoes of the PFL?

The comparisons to the Professional Fighters League are inevitable. The PFL’s season-based format, complete with a transparent points system and playoff bracket, has helped it carve out a distinct niche in the MMA landscape. UFC’s adoption of even a partial points format, particularly in its Contender Series pipelines and DWCS signings, is more than just imitationit’s evolution by competition.

Though PFL’s system is more stringent and embedded into its regular season and postseason models, the UFC’s version will primarily affect prospect deals and Contender Series outcomes. It’s a move that both incentivizes action and streamlines decision-making, without completely replacing the human element in matchmaking.

Merit Meets Mayhem

UFC fans are no strangers to controversial signings and missed opportunities. Who can forget when Ilia Topuria knocked on the door for top-10 relevance with little fanfare, or when Kevin Holland casually waltzed into late-notice main events with the swagger of someone building a brand on chaos alone?

Now, in a world of points and productivity, prospects will need more than highlight reels. They’ll need consistency, charisma, and just enough chaos to catch Uncle Dana’s eyewhile checking enough boxes to appease the algorithm.

Mixed Reactions from the Fight World

As you’d expect, the MMA community is split like a razor-close split decision. Some veteran fighters welcome the structure, especially those who fought claw and tooth for recognition. Othersparticularly those with flair-for-the-dramatic finishes but little social media presenceworry about being lost in the numbers game.

“The UFC’s always been about ‘who wants it more,’” said a current featherweight on the fight roster. “But now it kinda feels like ‘who can game the system better.’ That’s cool… unless you’re not online 24/7.”

Fans, ever the armchair matchmakers, have had their fun speculating what this means for fight promotion dynamics. Will the era of decision win streaks finally get rewarded? Or will finishes continue to reign supreme in contract worthiness?

The Business Side of the Cage

While some see the system as an overdue step into modern sports science, critics argue it steers MMA down the road of corporatized predictability. But let’s not pretend the UFC hasn’t been a business first and bloodsport second for years now. From crypto partnerships to NFT drops to a TKO Group Holdings rollout on Wall Street, the organization is all-in on polish and profit.

This point system just happens to be its latest bid to weaponize structure within an otherwise unpredictable sport. And when done right, it could add clarity to what’s historically been an opaque, almost-mythical matchmaking process.

Final Round: Fairer or Germ-Free Fun?

Let’s be honest: the octagon has always been equal parts meritocracy and mosh pit. This new system might push the needle toward the former, but the UFC still operates with a splash of chaosand that’s exactly why we watch. The real question is whether a spreadsheet can ever fully account for a spinning back elbow or a post-fight viral dance that sears a fighter’s name into public memory.

So yes, the UFC Points System might streamline the talent funnel and drive better long-term matchmaking. But if there’s one thing we know about this sport, it’s that no number can measure heart, grit, or the madness of the moment.

For more updates on UFC’s evolving contract process and prospect evaluations, stay tuned to BloodyElbow.com, your hub for all things beautifully brutal.

UFC 68 Bout Canceled

The injury bug strikes again, and this time it’s claimed a spot on the UFC 68 fight card. The highly anticipated Jeremiah Wells vs. Andreas “Bane” Gustafsson welterweight showdown has been officially scrapped, sources confirmed Wednesday afternoon.

Wells, a Philadelphia native known for his explosive athleticism and knockout power, has been forced to withdraw from the May 25th contest against Gustafsson due to undisclosed medical reasons. The news comes as a blow to fans eager to see him return to the win column following his loss to Carlson Harris late last year.

From Sweden With Aggression

On the flip side, Sweden’s Andreas Gustafsson was scheduled to make his long-awaited octagon debut after racking up a dominant run on the regional scene. The Allstars Training Center product, who built a reputation in Europe as a rugged pressure fighter with a dangerous top game, made headlines earlier this month when he stepped in on short notice to replace Wells’ previous opponent, Yusaku Kinoshita.

Gustafsson’s whirlwind entry into the UFC spotlight was generating buzz, especially with the potential for fireworks against an aggressive brawler like Wells. Now, unfortunately, the Swede finds himself in MMA limbo, with no new opponent announced as of press time.

UFC 68 Shifting Gears

With UFC 68 just days away and set to be held at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, promotion officials are scrambling to reshuffle the undercard. The welterweight showcase was expected to offer a high-octane start to the evening, pitting a respected veteran in Wells against a rising international talent eager to make his mark.

Though Wells’ exit leaves a noticeable gap on the Saturday night card, fans can still look forward to a stacked lineup featuring several standout boutsincluding a pivotal featherweight clash between Contender Series graduates.

Wells’ Rocky Ride

Wells (12-4-1) made a strong impression upon signing with the promotion in 2021, earning three straight wins in the UFCincluding highlight reel finishes of Warlley Alves and Court McGee. But after a string of tough matchups, he’s currently looking to right the ship following back-to-back losses at the hands of Bryan Battle and the aforementioned Harris.

The 37-year-old has battled adversity throughout his career, and sources close to the fighter remain optimistic about his return later in 2024. While the nature of the withdrawal remains behind closed doors, it’s clear that Wells is aiming for a full recovery before stepping back into the lion’s den.

Swede Still Seeking a Shot

As for Gustafsson (8-1), the timing couldn’t be more frustrating. A standout from Allstars Training Centerhome to UFC legends like Alexander Gustafsson and Khamzat ChimaevAndreas has long been considered one of Europe’s top unsigned talents. His only professional loss? A razor-thin decision in his MMA debut. Since then, it’s been nothing but chaos and carnagemostly delivered by his ground-and-pound clinic.

Whether the UFC decides to keep him on the card with a new opponent remains to be seen, but the appetite among fans to see the Swede debut hasn’t waned. With the current trend of fighters stepping up on short notice, anything’s possible in the fight game.

Final Bell

Injuries and fight cancellations are nothing new in the world of mixed martial artsand yet, they never seem to hurt any less. This scratched welterweight battle promises to be one of those “what could’ve been” momentsat least until rescheduling talks begin.

As UFC 68 barrels toward fight night with its share of grit and unpredictability, the show must go onand knowing Dana White’s playbook, a few surprises might still be tucked up the promotion’s sleeves.

Stay tuned to MMA Junkie for breaking updates and the full UFC 68 lineup as it evolves.

Top UFC Welterweights Ranked

When it comes to sheer talent and legacy, few divisions in UFC history have produced the kind of iconic battles and enduring legends like the welterweight division. From the laser-sharp dominance of Georges St-Pierre to the gritty resilience of Kamaru Usman, the list of elite 170-pounders reads like a who’s who of mixed martial arts royalty.

Understanding who truly deserves the title of the Greatest UFC Welterweight Champion of All Time is no easy task. Titles, win streaks, opposition caliber, overall skill setsso many factors are in play. But some champions etched their names in history and forged resumes that fans and pundits can’t ignore. Buckle up as we power through the era-defining kings of the cage in the welterweight ranks.

#1 Georges St-Pierre

Let’s not bury the lede. Georges “Rush” St-Pierre isn’t just the best welterweight of all timehe might be the most complete fighter to ever grace the Octagon.

With nine consecutive title defenses and victories over legends like BJ Penn, Matt Hughes, Nick Diaz, and Carlos Condit, GSP didn’t just winhe engineered comprehensive shutdowns of elite opposition in every department. Wrestling? Clinical. Striking? Surgical. Fight IQ? Einstein would blush.

And when others faded, GSP evolved. His dominance wasn’t built only on physicality but on a masterful understanding of game plans and execution. He retired after a successful middleweight title win, which only further burnishes his Hall of Fame résumé. Every other welterweight enter the conversation starts a yard behind him.

#2 Kamaru Usman

If GSP was the scalpel, Kamaru “The Nigerian Nightmare” Usman was the sledgehammer. Coming up through The Ultimate Fighter, Usman’s MMA evolution hit warp speed after capturing the title in 2019 by rag-dolling Tyron Woodley.

From there, it was a riding wave of brutality. He defended the welterweight throne five times, dispatching high-level threats like Colby Covington (twice), Jorge Masvidal (twice), and Gilbert Burns. And let’s not forgetUsman did it all while developing a jab that could humble most middleweights.

His shocking head-kick KO loss to Leon Edwards in 2022 marked a stunning fall from the apex, but nothing erases the reign of dominance he imposed for nearly four years. In another era, he would’ve been the undisputed king.

#3 Matt Hughes

Before GSP and Usman, there was Matt Hughesthe corn-fed powerhouse with a hall-of-fame chin and country-boy grit that turned him into a two-time UFC champion and logging seven total title defenses.

Hughes was a prototype: elite wrestling backed with brute strength. He bulldozed his way through the early 2000s, stacking wins over legends like Royce Gracie, BJ Penn, Frank Trigg, and Carlos Newton. He was the welterweight OG when the UFC was finding its legs, and his style might look vanilla today, but at the time it was the peak of evolution.

And who could forget his iconic rivalry with St-Pierre? He won the firstlost the next twobut those bouts helped usher in a new generation of MMA greatness.

#4 Tyron Woodley

From momentary flash-in-the-pan to one of the most feared knockout artists of his time, Tyron “The Chosen One” Woodley commanded the division with a rare combination of speed, power, and wrestling pedigree.

Woodley’s title-winning KO of Robbie Lawler was sheer violence, and his defenses against Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson (twice), Demian Maia, and Darren Till further cemented his status. For a time, Woodley was a puzzle no one could solve. His right hand came with its own weather warning.

Though his decline was steep and swifthe lost four consecutive fights before leaving the UFCit doesn’t erase the years he ruled the division like a tactical tank. Few possessed his ability to neutralize elite strikers and grapplers alike.

#5 Robbie Lawler

Welcome to the blood-and-guts portion of our list.

“Ruthless” Robbie Lawler wasn’t supposed to be a world champion in the UFC’s modern era. His career looked cooked in the late 2000s. Then in 2013, he turned in one of the wildest late-career resurgences we’ve ever seen.

What followed was a title-winning spree filled with violence, cardio, and an iron will. His brawls with Johny Hendricks, Rory MacDonald, and Carlos Condit are part of the division’s folklore, especially his UFC 189 war with MacDonalda fight etched into MMA’s Mount Olympus of brutality.

Lawler’s technical tools may never have matched GSP or Usman, but his passion and refusal to quit made him an unforgettable champion in the deepest era the welterweights had ever seen.

Honorable Mentions

• Leon Edwards: Still mid-reign, “Rocky” has a lot left to say. His ascentcapped by a perfect head kick against Usmanwas straight out of Hollywood.
• Johny Hendricks: For a hot second, Bigg Rigg looked unbeatable. His slugfests against Lawler and GSP-era miss-fire land him just outside the top 5.
• BJ Penn: Though his legendary status was solidified in the lightweight division, Penn’s stints at 170 (including a title win) deserve a respectful nod.

The Verdict

What makes the welterweight division such a hotbed of greatness is how generational talent seems unavoidable. Each era has given us a distinct champion with their own flavorwrestling dominance, striking precision, or unmatched heart and resilience.

While rankings inevitably stir debateand oh, they willwhat’s undeniable is the richness of this division’s lineage. From GSP’s ghost-like mastery to Lawler’s juggernaut wars, welterweight champions have never let the spotlight rust.

So whether you bow at the shrine of GSP or stand in the shadow of Usman’s fierce reign, one thing’s clear: UFC welterweights don’t just fightthey define eras.

“It’s not just about who had the belt; it’s about what they did with itand how they made us feel while doing it.”

The rankings are in. Gloves are laced. Legends are made at 170 pounds.

HyunSung Park Calls Out

Coming off the biggest win of his UFC career, HyunSung Park didn’t wait long before seizing the micand seizing the moment. Following his gutsy unanimous decision victory over veteran Matt Schnell at UFC Vegas 106, Park surprised both fans and pundits with a post-fight callout that raised more than a few eyebrowsnot because of who he called out, but rather, the randomness of it all.

Tactical Approach, Wild Finish

Let’s start with the bout that started it all. Park isn’t simply a promising South Korean flyweight anymorehe’s a full-blown threat in the division. Facing Schnell, a slick scrambler and proven finisher, Park displayed poise and positional excellence, navigating dangerous exchanges while cracking Schnell with varied combinations. His cardio held up, and so did his composure, earning him a clear-cut win on the judges’ scorecards.

However, the action didn’t stop when the fight did. Moments after his hand was raised, Park turned heads with an unpromptedand admittedly, bafflingcallout that instantly sent MMA Twitter into a frenzy.

“Who?” Becomes “Why?”

Instead of targeting a top-10 contender or calling for a ranked slot himself, Park used his clutch post-fight interview to call out someone entirely off the radar. In a scene that felt equal parts strange and scripted, Park stood in the center of the Octagon and declared, “There’s someone I’ve had my eyes on for a while… and it’s time. Let’s dance, Steve Erceg.”

For context, Steve Erceg had already fought for the title earlier in the yeara short-notice bid against Brandon Moreno that didn’t quite go Erceg’s way but put him on the map. But Erceg isn’t exactly in Park’s crosshairs from a rankings or rivalry standpoint, making the callout seem almost… random?

The School of Style Points

There’s something refreshing about Park’s flavor of promotions. He’s not conforming to the usual cookie-cutter post-fight etiquette. He’s skipping the playbook and going full improv. In fact, that unpredictability is intriguing in a McGregor-esque way: you may not understand it, but you pay attention because it’s different.

Is Park simply hunting a name to fast-track his status from prospect to contender? Possibly. Or maybe he sees something specific in Erceg’s stylea striking-heavy approach that contrasts Park’s well-rounded grind. Either way, the rather “random” nature of the moment made it the day’s main talking point.

“Random” is the New Strategy

MMA fans love drama, and even more than that, they love being confused enough to talk about it. Park just earned his largest audience to date with one carefully delivered lineand it has people wondering not if he deserves a bigger fight, but who deserves to share the spotlight with him.

As for Schnell, the loss marked another tough setback for the veteran, who now finds himself at a crossroads after a flurry of inconsistent performances. While he showed flashes of brilliance, he couldn’t find any extended rhythm against Park’s dynamic pace and pressure.

The Road Ahead

Park is now riding a [insert current win streak here] streak, and this victory solidifies him as one of Asia’s brightest rising stars in the flyweight division. Between real skill and witty mic game, the 28-year-old is playing chess when others are still playing checkersthough, perhaps, he has his pieces scattered across someone else’s board entirely.

UFC matchmakers have never shied away from rewarding marketable surprises, especially when they come packaged with winning streaks and international fan crossover. Will Park vs. Erceg make it onto a summer card? Or was it just performance art from a fighter comfortable with controlled chaos?

Final Thoughts

HyunSung Park might not be a household name yet, but with stunts like thisand performances that back them uphe’s laying the groundwork for stardom. The callout may have been “random,” but make no mistake: Park’s rise is anything but.

For more coverage of UFC Vegas 106 and updates on fight bookings, follow us @YourMMAJournalist on Twitter and stay locked with MMA Junkie for all the latest.

Chimaev UFC Injury Timeline

For a fighter as ferocious and feared as Khamzat Chimaev, you’d be forgiven for thinking nothing could keep “Borz” out of the cage. Yet, as UFC fans now know all too well, the Swedish-Chechen phenom has spent almost as much time on the sidelines as he has inside the Octagon since bursting onto the scene in 2020. With his long-anticipated UFC 319 title fight against Dricus Du Plessis on the horizon, it’s worth looking back at the obstaclesmore specifically, the injuries and withdrawalsthat have tried (and failed) to halt the Chimaev hype train.

A Meteoric Rise… and a Sudden Pause

Chimaev’s rise was nothing short of supernatural. In just 66 days, he racked up three wins and three performance bonuses, bulldozing opponents with barely a scratch. Fans began calling him the second coming of Khabibwith hands. His blend of wrestling dominance and murderous intent became must-see TV for UFC fans starving for a new heir to the welterweight throne.

But then… crickets. What followed was a stop-start journey full of injury setbacks, visa delays, health scares, and more rescheduled fights than a cursed wedding.

The Timeline of Trials: Chimaev’s Injury Roadmap

• March 2021 – COVID-19 Aftermath nearly ends his career: Chimaev contracted COVID-19 in late 2020 while training in Las Vegas. What followed wasn’t just a mild cough. He experienced lingering symptoms and complications, with things getting so serious that he literally announced his retirement on Instagram in March 2021, stating, “I think I’m done.”
• October 2021 – Withdraws from UFC 267: Slated to return in Abu Dhabi at UFC 267, Chimaev reportedly suffered extended issues related to long COVID. The UFC removed him from the event, citing “health complications,” though official details were murky.
• April 2022 – Shoulder and visa delays hamper momentum: After smashing Li Jingliang in a violent return in October 2021, hopes were high. He was linked to Gilbert Burns immediately. But training interruptions due to visa delays and a nagging shoulder injury pushed the fight to April. Still, he pulled off a war with Burns that cemented his status as the division’s most terrifying rising star.
• October 2022 – UFC 279 reshuffle madness: Originally set to fight Nate Diaz, Chimaev missed weight by a full 7.5 pounds at the UFC 279 weigh-ins. Rumors swirled around a botched weight cut and underlying injury. While no specific injury was confirmed, insiders whispered about a compromised training camp. The incident ultimately forced a reshuffling of the card, and Chimaev ended up steamrolling Kevin Holland in a catchweight bout.
• Fall 2023 – Extended layoff due to injury: Despite clamoring for a title shot, Chimaev went radio silent. UFC CEO Dana White explained the inactivity as due to ongoing medical issues. While rumors ranged from knee injuries to another health scare, the exact nature remained vagueadding to the mystique. Still, Chimaev didn’t fight for the entirety of 2023. Fans grew restless.
• May 2024 – Withdraws from UFC Saudi Arabia main event: Booked to headline UFC’s debut event in Saudi Arabia against former middleweight champ Robert Whittaker, everything looked set. Then, just weeks before the date, Chimaev pulled out due to illness, scrapping a crucial title eliminator bout. The UFC had to scramble for a new headliner.

Enter UFC 319 – Du Plessis Awaits

Now, it appears Chimaev has cleared the cobwebs and rehab rooms. The UFC officially announced that Chimaev will finally compete for the UFC Middleweight Championship at UFC 319 against current titleholder Dricus Du Plessis. It’s a bout two years in the making, and one that fans are praying doesn’t join the long list of scratched engagements that have marred Chimaev’s career.

Du Plessis, known for his own gritty resilience and chaotic striking style, is no walk in the park. The South African is chomping at the bit to welcome Chimaev back and finally put to test the aura that’s been building since 2020.

The Verdict: Real or Myth?

For all the setbacks, what keeps fans invested in Chimaev is the unshakeable belief that when healthy, this man might just be the most dominant force in the sport. We’ve seen flasheswell, more like full-on sonic boomsof what he’s capable of inside the cage. But in MMA, potential is a perishable asset. Only time will tell if these injuries are unfortunate blips or a chronic trend that defines his career.

For now, the countdown to UFC 319 is on. If healthy and focused, Chimaev may finally claim the belt many assumed he’d already own by now. But remember: with “Borz,” it’s never just about who he’s fighting…

It’s about whether he makes it to the cage at all.

Follow the Story

Keep it locked to MMA Mania and UFC.com for breaking updates as we track Chimaev’s journey to UFC 319.

UFC Vegas 106 Picks

Another Saturday night, another slugfest in Sin City. UFC Vegas 106 rolls into the APEX facility in Las Vegas with a card stacked with firepower, rising momentum, and plenty of betting intrigue. Whether you’re in it for the casual chaos or a seasoned bettor double-checking prop plays, let’s dive into the matchups that’ll shake up the rankings, rattle a few chin bones, and potentially pad your wallet.

Main Event: Edson Barboza vs. Lerone Murphy

Veteran warhorse Edson Barboza (24-11) squares off against the undefeated British dynamo Lerone Murphy (13-0-1) in a classic striker’s delight. Barboza, now a staple of post-fight bonus packages, isn’t just threatening with kicks that could fell redwoodshe’s a highlight reel on legs. But age and accumulated war wounds don’t lie. At 38, there are real questions about what Barboza has left in the gas tank.

Murphy has been steadily building momentum, showcasing slick movement, sharp counters, and elite grappling defense. He’s not as flashy, but he’s frustratingly efficient. And most importantly, he hasn’t tasted defeat. This fight will be a litmus test for how far he can ascend in the crowded featherweight division.

Pick: Lerone Murphy by decision (+110) – It’s a tough ask to finish Barboza, even on short notice. But Murphy grinds out a clean, calculated win over three rounds.

Co-Main Event: Khaos Williams vs. Carlston Harris

The welterweight clash between Khaos Williams and Carlston Harris promises violence. No feel-out rounds here. If your popcorn isn’t ready from the opening bell, you’ll miss the fireworks. Williams owns jaw-crunching powerhis last performance a one-punch PSA as to why you protect your chin every second of every round. He’s aggressive, relentless, and has a right hand you could sell at auction.

Carlston Harris brings more variety to the game plan: unorthodox strikes, submission threats, and that sneaky underdog aura. He’s nuanced, but he doesn’t quite have the polish to trust at extended ranges with someone like Khaos.

Pick: Khaos Williams by KO (+160) – The nickname doesn’t lie. Khaos brings the thunder and closes the show before the judges get involved.

Other Main Card Bouts to Watch

Ramiz Brahimaj vs. Themba Gorimbo

This one screams grappling clinic. Brahimaj is a submission-savant; a BJJ technician sculpted for ground warfare. Gorimbo, meanwhile, enters with confidence after his backstory won hearts and his last win earned attention. But sentiment doesn’t stuff takedowns.

Pick: Brahimaj to win by submission (+175) – The jiu-jitsu is next level. If he gets it to the mat, this one ends fast.

Adrian Yanez vs. Vinicius Salvador

Adrian Yanez needs a bounce-back, and Salvador’s frantic style might be exactly what he needs. Yanez’s boxing remains crisp and deliberate, while Salvador’s wild outputs leave gaps a sniper like Yanez can exploit all night.

Pick: Yanez by TKO (-140) – Expect clean counters and a highlight finish. Yanez reintroduces himself in the most violent of fashion.

Angela Hill vs. Luana Pinheiro

Never count Angela “Overkill” Hill out. A volume striker with durability for days and cardio that never fades, Hill is the type to win judges over purely on activity. Pinheiro brings grit and some wrestling chops but can be outpaced if she doesn’t control tempo.

Pick: Angela Hill by decision (+150) – Close, scrappy, and competitive. But the veteran’s rhythm and output squeak her by.

Prelims with Hidden Value

• Oumar Sy (-125) vs. Rodolfo Bellato – Sy is unbeaten and has been steamrolling opposition. Bellato is game, but Sy’s athleticism and control should shine at light heavyweight. Take Sy straight up.
• Melissa Gatto (-135) vs. Tamires Vidal – Gatto has more tools and cleaner technique. Vidal can scrap, but this feels like a technical mismatch. Gatto by decision feels like a high-value play.

Underdog Radar: Victor Martinez (+220) vs. Tom Nolan

It’s never wise to write off a dog at this stage of a Fight Night card, especially one as seasoned as Victor Martinez. While Tom Nolan enters with hype and the sheen of invincibility, Martinez has been in the fire and owns that gritty edge that can upset a rising star not used to adversity.

Longshot Pick: Martinez by decision (+400) – For those looking to sprinkle, there’s value in experience here.

Prop Plays to Consider

• Main Event over 2.5 rounds (-165) – Barboza’s durability and Murphy’s methodical style keep this one on the scorecards.
• Khaos Williams inside the distance (+120) – If he wins, he wins violently.
• Angela Hill total strikes landed (Over 95.5) – The most active striker in women’s MMA history? That line is begging to be hit.

Final Thoughts

UFC Vegas 106 might not have the glitz of a pay-per-view card, but for savvy fans and bettors, it’s a buffet of value, breakout performances, and potential division shifts. From featherweights jostling for rankings to power punchers setting off alarms, this card has the makings of a sleeper hit.

As always, stay sharp, keep those parlays responsibly playful, and rememberwhen it comes to betting UFC Fight Night, the undercard is often where the gems lie. Happy betting and fight on.

Rogan Praises UFC Star

Joe Rogan has never been one to hold back his opinions, but when the veteran UFC commentator praises a fighter for setting the benchmark, the MMA world pays attention. This week, it was UFC Vegas 106 rising star Isaac Dulgarian who found himself in the spotlight after a dominant performance that had Roganand fansbuzzing. And no, it wasn’t just about the win.

“That’s how it’s done!” – Rogan on Dulgarian’s Professionalism

During a recent episode of the Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan singled out Dulgarian’s post-fight demeanor as a template of professionalism every fighter should aspire to follow. In an industry often marred by brash callouts and posturing, Dulgarian’s composed and respectful octagon interview didn’t go unnoticed.

“This guy, Isaac Dulgarian, he just f***ing fought his heart out and came out the other side without screaming about how he wants to murder someone next,” Rogan said. “He was grateful, gracious, humble. That sets the standard.”

At just 28, “The Midwest Choppa” secured another pivotal victory in Vegas last weekend, pushing his record to an unblemished 7-0. But instead of adding fuel to the trash-talk fire or calling for top-10 names, Dulgarianwho trains out of Factory X under Marc Montoyastood tall with integrity and humility in front of the mic.

“I’m just blessed to be here,” Dulgarian said moments after his TKO victory. “I want to keep getting better, learn from this fight, and represent my team the right way.”

Humility Hits Different in 2024’s Fight Culture

Let’s be honestMMA sells on rivalries. Beef, banter, and brashness have long been part of the UFC marketing machine. But in a promotional environment where volume, not values, often dominate headlines, Dulgarian’s quiet confidence and sportsmanship felt refreshingly disruptive.

“Every time someone acts like this after a win, it reminds fans why they fell in love with martial arts in the first place,” Rogan added. “There’s a code to this sport, and this guy gets it.”

Rogan, who’s been commentating for the UFC since 2002, doesn’t throw compliments lightly. So when a young fighter earns a rare spot in his praise parade, it’s worth noting. As much as high-flying knockouts or third-round submission comebacks grab reels, so too can a thoughtful post-fight presence make a lasting impression.

Can Dulgarian Keep It Going?

From a competitive standpoint, Dulgarian is building serious momentum. His aggressive wrestling and ground-and-pound style have overwhelmed opponents, and he’s shown steady evolution in his striking. With the featherweight division stacked with talent, he’s still a few fights away from top-tier contender status, but the upside seems undeniable.

What sets him apart? According to his coaches, it’s the work ethic. According to fans, maybe also the lack of ego. And to Joe Rogan? It’s something deeper.

“He’s a martial artist, man. Not just a fighter. That’s a beautiful difference,” Rogan emphasized.

The Rogan BumpMyth or Momentum?

When Joe Rogan singles you out during one of his podcasts, it’s more than just a compliment. It’s the start of something. Fighters like Paddy Pimblett, Sean O’Malley, and even Islam Makhachev have all felt the winds of Rogan-induced momentum. Sponsors notice. Matchmakers pay attention. Fans hit the follow button.

So what’s next for Isaac Dulgarian? That’s up to the UFC brass, but one thing seems clear: he’s caught the attention of the masses without the need to stir the pot or swing trash talk. And in a sport increasingly starving for authenticity, that kind of integrity might just be the edge he didn’t know he had.

A New Role Model in the Making

As feathers continue to fly in the volatile world of UFC featherweights, Dulgarian may have just landed the most elusive strike of alla fanbase grounded in respect rather than entertainment-only antics.

And with Rogan himself endorsing his mindset, Dulgarian could be setting a new precedent inside the cage…and even more importantly, outside of it.

Photo Credit: UFC / Zuffa LLC