Ian Machado Garry believes Leon Edwards will lose to Carlos Prates in devastating fashion at UFC ...

<p>Ian Machado Garry believes Leon Edwards will lose to Carlos Prates in devastating fashion at UFC 322.</p><p>"I think (Prates is) gonna absolutely starch Leon," Garry told "<a href="https://x.com/arielhelwani/status/1978192513694654621">The Ariel Helwani Show</a>" on Tuesday. "I've been saying this for a long time: I think (Edwards) should be retired. And we might see that."</p><p>Edwards, a former welterweight champion, is looking to bounce back from a two-fight skid when he faces Prates on Nov. 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York. The 34-year-old Englishman dropped the title to Belal Muhammad in July 2024 and then suffered the first stoppage loss of his career - a fourth-round submission - against Sean Brady at UFC London in March.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Garry, one of the division's top contenders, said he's surprised Edwards agreed to fight Prates, who has earned knockouts in all five of his UFC victories.</p><p>"(Edwards has) been shouting and screaming about wanting to fight a striker for so long, and now he's got his opportunity, and I think he's gonna absolutely get punched around," Garry said.</p><p>Garry has had beef with Edwards since being kicked out of his gym, Team Renegade in Birmingham, England, two years ago. Edwards said Garry's behavior didn't align with the gym's culture, while Garry claimed that Edwards' coach didn't want him around because he viewed him as a "threat."</p><p>There was a time Garry was eager to fight Edwards, but he said Tuesday he doesn't care if it ever happens.</p><p>"I have no interest ever for him to ever earn any money off me doing all the hard work of being the more interesting fighter. ... If he was willing to fight me for all or nothing, I'd fight him in a heartbeat," Garry said. "Because I'd make sure he'd leave there absolutely punched around, unconscious, and then leave with no benefit."</p><p>He added: "I'm gonna have a Brazil flag on my shoulders come Nov. 15, cheering Carlos Prates on, watching him spark Leon Edwards unconscious."</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - DECEMBER 07: Ian Machado Garry of Ireland enters the Octagon in a welterweight bout during the UFC 310 event at T-Mobile Arena on December 07, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32824907/related

Garry predicts Edwards gets KO'd by Prates: 'He should be retired'

Welterweight contender Sean Brady is set to fight Michael Morales at UFC 322 on Nov. 15 at Madiso...

<p>Welterweight contender Sean Brady is set to fight Michael Morales at UFC 322 on Nov. 15 at Madison Square Garden in New York, he announced Monday on "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8YMaMdkNMMY">The BradyBagz Show</a>."</p><p>Brady-Morales is the third marquee welterweight bout set for the card, in addition to the main event between champion Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev, as well as Leon Edwards versus Carlos Prates.</p><p>Brady, ranked No. 2 in the division, is coming off the biggest win of his career, a submission of Edwards at UFC London in March. The 32-year-old Philadelphia native is riding a three-fight winning streak and is 18-1 as a professional.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Morales, the No. 8-ranked welterweight, is one of the hottest up-and-comers in the division. Most recently, the 26-year-old Ecuadorian knocked out former title challenger Gilbert Burns in the first round of a UFC Fight Night main event in May. Morales holds a 6-0 record in the UFC and an 18-0 record as a pro.</p><p>UFC 322 will also feature a women's flyweight title bout between Valentina Shevchenko and former strawweight champion Zhang Weili, who's moving up to 125 pounds for the first time in the Octagon.</p>

Sean Brady following the welterweight bout against Leon Edwards during UFC Fight Night at The O2, London. Picture date: Saturday March 22, 2025.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32823427/related

Brady says he's fighting Morales at UFC 322

Former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira dazzled in his return to the Octagon, submitting Mat...

<p>Former lightweight champion Charles Oliveira dazzled in his return to the Octagon, submitting Mateusz Gamrot with a rear-naked choke in the UFC Rio de Janeiro main event Saturday night.</p><p>The finish came at the 2:48 mark of the second round at Farmasi Arena in Oliveira's home country of Brazil.</p><p>"I'm trying to hold back the tears right now," Oliveira said in his postfight interview. "This is all for you guys. It's not about money, fame, status, or anything. Screw it, this is Brazil."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Oliveira is back in the win column after suffering a devastating knockout loss to current champ Ilia Topuria at UFC 317 in June. Some thought it was ill-advised for Oliveira to return so soon after such a defeat, but the 35-year-old put on a flawless performance against Gamrot, silencing his doubters in the process.</p><p>After the win, Oliveira said he wants to fight Max Holloway for the BMF title next. They've fought once before, in a UFC main event in 2015. Holloway won via first-round TKO after Oliveira suffered a freak injury. They've both put together Hall of Fame-worthy careers since that meeting, and a rematch would be big business for the promotion.</p><p>"Hey (UFC chief business officer) Hunter (Campbell), Charles Oliveira and Max Holloway, BMF, let's make that happen," Oliveira said.</p><p>Oliveira is now tied with Neil Magny for the second-most wins in UFC history (24), three behind Jim Miller. "Do Bronx" also extended several of his own UFC records, including most finishes (21) and most submissions (17).</p><p>In the first round of Saturday's main event, Gamrot was the first to engage in the grappling department, scoring a takedown 40 seconds in. But Oliveira quickly proved he had the edge on the ground, throwing up several submission attempts off his back. Oliveira eventually returned to his feet, then got on top of Gamrot and took his back. He attempted to sink in a rear-naked choke, but Gamrot defended it.</p><p>Oliveira aggressively attacked on the feet at the start of the second round, landing solid punches, including a left hook. Gamrot connected with a few shots of his own. Oliveira scored a takedown midway through the frame and took Gamrot's back again. He applied another rear-naked choke, and although it appeared to be across Gamrot's jaw and not under his chin, Oliveira's tight squeeze forced the tap.</p><p>Oliveira fought in Brazil for the first time since March 2020, when he submitted Kevin Lee in an empty arena in Brasilia just days after large gatherings were banned due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Saturday's bout was Oliveira's second main event in his home country and his first time competing in front of a Brazilian crowd since 2019.</p><p>Oliveira, who's ranked No. 4 in the lightweight division, has now alternated wins and losses in his past seven Octagon appearances. He held the 155-pound title from 2021-22 until Islam Makhachev took over the division, but he's largely remained in contention since.</p><p>Gamrot suffered the first stoppage loss of his career. The 34-year-old Pole is 1-2 in his last three outings.</p><p>Gamrot, the eighth-ranked lightweight in the promotion, accepted the matchup with Oliveira on two-and-a-half weeks' notice after Rafael Fiziev withdrew due to an injury.</p><p> </p>

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 11: Charles Oliveira of Brazil reacts after a victory against Mateusz Gamrot of Poland in a lightweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Farmasi Arena on October 11, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32784060/related

Oliveira submits Gamrot in UFC Rio main event

Newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira said Friday he broke his foot in his re...

<p>Newly crowned UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira said Friday he broke his foot in his recent win over Magomed Ankalaev.</p><p>Pereira finished Ankalaev by 80-second TKO in last weekend's UFC 320 main event to reclaim the 205-pound title.</p><p>"I did an X-Ray in Las Vegas and an MRI here (in Brazil), and we have a fracture on my foot," Pereira said in Portuguese during a Q&amp;A ahead of Saturday's UFC Rio de Janeiro event, according to <a href="https://www.mmafighting.com/ufc/449453/alex-pereira-reveals-injury-suffered-in-ufc-320-win-eyes-ufc-white-house-fight">MMA Fighting's Alexander K. Lee</a>. "But I still don't know what will happen, or how long it will take for me to recover."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 38-year-old Brazilian said he hopes to return at the UFC's event at the White House, which is tentatively planned for June 14.</p><p>"It's something that interests me," Pereira said. "I think I'll focus on this."</p><p>Though several high-profile matchups await Pereira, including a potential move to heavyweight against either Tom Aspinall or Jon Jones, he didn't commit to an opponent.</p><p>One of 10 two-division champions in UFC history, Pereira avenged a unanimous decision loss to Ankalaev - which occurred at UFC 313 in March - with a decisive victory in their rematch.</p>

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 10: Alex Pereira is seen on stage during a Q&A session prior to the UFC Fight Night ceremonial weigh-in at Farmasi Arena on October 10, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32760167/related

Pereira injured his foot in UFC 320 title win

Lightweight contenders Charles Oliveira and Mateusz Gamrot made weight Friday ahead of the UFC Ri...

<p>Lightweight contenders Charles Oliveira and Mateusz Gamrot made weight Friday ahead of the UFC Rio de Janeiro main event Saturday night in Brazil.</p><p>Oliveira and Gamrot both weighed in at 156 pounds.</p><p>Bantamweight Saimon Oliveira was the lone fighter on the card to miss weight. He came in at 144 pounds, a whopping eight over the divisional limit. His opponent, Luan Lacerda, made weight at 136 pounds. The UFC said the fight will proceed as scheduled.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Oliveira, a former lightweight champion, is looking to get back on track after suffering a knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in a vacant title bout at UFC 317 in June. The Brazilian will compete in his home country for the first time since 2020.</p><p>Gamrot agreed to the matchup on short notice, replacing Rafael Fiziev, who withdrew due to injury. The Pole is 4-1 in his past five Octagon appearances and could enter the title conversation with a victory over Oliveira, his toughest test to date.</p>

RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL - OCTOBER 10: Charles Oliveira of Brazil poses on the scale during the UFC Fight Night official weigh-in at the Windsor Marapendi on October 10, 2025 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32755222/related

Oliveira, Gamrot make weight for UFC Rio; 1 fighter misses by 8 pounds

"Poatan" is back on top of the world.  Alex Pereira hammered Magomed Ankalaev with elbows on the ...

<p>"Poatan" is back on top of the world.</p><p>Alex Pereira hammered Magomed Ankalaev with elbows on the ground and scored a TKO finish at the 1:20 mark of the first round to reclaim the light heavyweight title in the UFC 320 main event Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.</p><p>With the victory, Pereira avenged a unanimous decision loss to Ankalaev that occurred at UFC 313 in March.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_RReu5WGhw4?si=_Yd_5cSjQXWKWsnQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>Pereira closed the distance as soon as the fight started, looking to land punches. He tagged Ankalaev with a hard right hand that forced the Dagestani to shoot a takedown. Pereira fended off the attempt, got on top, and began teeing off with punches and then elbows. Referee Herb Dean gave Ankalaev a few moments to try to escape the position, but he eventually stepped in and waved off the fight.</p><p>Pereira became the third person to win the UFC light heavyweight title twice, joining Randy Couture and Jon Jones. The 38-year-old Brazilian improved to 6-1 in his last seven Octagon appearances. He now sits at 10-2 in the promotion overall.</p><p>Pereira, a former middleweight champion and one of 10 two-division titleholders in UFC history, first captured 205-pound gold in November 2023, knocking out Jiri Prochazka in the second round at UFC 295. He defended the belt three times in 2024 with finishes of Jamahal Hill, Prochazka, and Khalil Rountree Jr. before losing to Ankalaev earlier this year.</p><p>Ankalaev suffered just the second defeat of his professional career, falling to 21-2-1 (1 NC). The 33-year-old was riding a 14-fight unbeaten streak and hadn't lost since his UFC debut in 2018.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 04: Alex Pereira of Brazil reacts to his win over Magomed Ankalaev of Russia in the UFC light heavyweight championship fight during the UFC 320 event at T-Mobile Arena on October 04, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32689411/related

Pereira TKOs Ankalaev in under 2 minutes, regains UFC title

Merab Dvalishvili defeated Cory Sandhagen via unanimous decision to retain the bantamweight title...

<p>Merab Dvalishvili defeated Cory Sandhagen via unanimous decision to retain the bantamweight title in the UFC 320 co-main event Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.</p><p>The judges scored the fight 49-45, 49-45, and 49-46.</p><p>One of the top pound-for-pound fighters in the world, Dvalishvili became the first UFC bantamweight champion to record three successful title defenses in a calendar year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>He also extended his winning streak to 14, which is the third-longest in UFC history behind Anderson Silva (16), Kamaru Usman (15), and Islam Makhachev (15).</p><p>"I keep getting better," Dvalishvili said in his postfight interview.</p><p>"The Machine" used pace and pressure to cruise past Sandhagen, outlanding the challenger 114-80 in significant strikes and completing 20 of 37 takedowns. Dvalishvili became the first UFC fighter to land 100 career takedowns and also set a new record for the most takedowns landed in a five-round title bout.</p><p>Dvalishvili nearly scored a finish in the second round. He rocked Sandhagen with heavy punches on the feet and then pummeled him with ground-and-pound, but Sandhagen survived.</p><p>Dvalishvili's relentless attack continued in the championship rounds, as he constantly backed Sandhagen up and shot takedowns to secure the clear-cut victory.</p><p>Afterward, Dvalishvili said he hopes to fight again at UFC 322 in December.</p><p>"Petr Yan looked good (in his last fight), and I think he's ready," Dvalishvili said. "I want to keep busy. Hunter Campbell and Dana White, if you have a spot in December, I would love to make a quick turnaround."</p><p>The 34-year-old Georgian is in the midst of an all-time run, avoiding defeat since 2018. Dvalishvili won the bantamweight title with a unanimous decision victory over Sean O'Malley at UFC 306 in September 2024 and has defended it against Umar Nurmagomedov, O'Malley, and now Sandhagen.</p><p>Ranked No. 4 in the division, Sandhagen challenged for the undisputed title for the first time. The 33-year-old fell to 1-2 in his last three Octagon outings.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 04: Merab Dvalishvili of Georgia awaits the start of a round in the UFC bantamweight championship fight during the UFC 320 event at T-Mobile Arena on October 04, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32689210/related

Dvalishvili cruises past Sandhagen, retains UFC bantamweight title

Former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka mounted a wild comeback to stop Khalil Rountree ...

<p>Former light heavyweight champion Jiri Prochazka mounted a wild comeback to stop Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 320.</p><p>Prochazka knocked out Rountree at the 3:04 mark of the third round Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.</p><p>Prochazka was losing 20-18 on all three judges' scorecards entering the third round.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F24615152518107445%2F&amp;show_text=false&amp;width=476&amp;t=0" width="476" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></figure><p>Rountree performed well in the first two rounds, picking Prochazka apart with hard punches and kicks. But Prochazka upped his aggression in the third and turned it into a Round of the Year candidate, swinging wild punches and eventually catching Rountree with a devastating left hook that put the former title challenger out cold.</p><p>With the victory, Prochazka is now riding a two-fight winning streak after knocking out former champion Jamahal Hill at UFC 311 in January. The 32-year-old Czech fighter could be in line for a title shot next, though Carlos Ulberg - who beat Dominick Reyes at UFC Perth last weekend - is also in contention.</p><p>Rountree was coming off a dominant win over Hill at UFC Baku in June. The 35-year-old is 1-2 in his last three Octagon appearances.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 04: (L-R) Jiri Prochazka of the Czech Republic strikes Khalil Rountree Jr. in a light heavyweight fight during the UFC 320 event at T-Mobile Arena on October 04, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32688707/related

Prochazka KOs Rountree to cap slugfest at UFC 320

theScore's Nick Baldwin makes his picks for the UFC 320 main-card bouts ahead of Saturday's event...

<p><em>theScore's Nick Baldwin makes his picks for the UFC 320 main-card bouts ahead of Saturday's event in Las Vegas.</em></p><h3>Light heavyweight championship</h3><p><strong>Magomed Ankalaev (21-1-1, 1 NC)<br>vs.<br>Alex Pereira (12-3)</strong></p><p>As much as I'd like to say Alex Pereira can make the rematch more interesting than the first fight, I don't have any reason to think it'll play out much differently than when Magomed Ankalaev outworked him at UFC 313 in March to seize the title.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ankalaev proved to be a tough stylistic matchup for Pereira, and that'll be the case again. He kept Pereira on the back foot, outstruck the former kickboxing champion, and mixed in some clinch work. Pereira was too concerned about being taken down, and as a result, he wasn't aggressive enough on the feet, which is when "Poatan" shines.</p><p>Pereira <em>can </em>beat Ankalaev, but at 38 years old, it's an uphill battle. He likely needs a knockout - or at least a knockdown to swing a round in his favor - while Ankalaev has several paths to victory, including by suffocating the challenger on the ground. I'll take the Dagestani to put on a similar performance as he did in the spring, cementing himself as the top 205-pound fighter in the promotion.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Ankalaev, unanimous decision</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804077/cropped_GettyImages-2238994938.jpg?ts=1759507718" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804077/w220xh124_GettyImages-2238994938.jpg?ts=1759507718 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804077/w320xh180_GettyImages-2238994938.jpg?ts=1759507718 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804077/w640xh360_GettyImages-2238994938.jpg?ts=1759507718 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804077/w768xh432_GettyImages-2238994938.jpg?ts=1759507718 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804077/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2238994938.jpg?ts=1759507718 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Bantamweight championship</h3><p><strong>Merab Dvalishvili (20-4)</strong><br><strong>vs.<br>Cory Sandhagen (18-5)</strong></p><p>I can't see this going well for Cory Sandhagen.</p><p>And that's not a knock on him by any means, but rather a vote of confidence in Dvalishvili. The bantamweight champ is on a different level than his peers, with recent performances like his upset of Umar Nurmagomedov in January or his submission of Sean O'Malley in June making it difficult to pick against him.</p><p>Sandhagen needs to keep this fight standing at all costs. He has a crafty striking arsenal and could theoretically outwork Dvalishvili if he fights at a distance. But that's way easier said than done. "The Machine" is literally that: a man who walks forward, walks forward some more, and absolutely drowns you with pressure. Boasting perhaps the best cardiovascular endurance in the UFC, Dvalishvili never slows down. I fear Sandhagen will be backing up and trying to fend off takedowns throughout much of the fight.</p><p>I'm expecting another Dvalishvili clinic.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Dvalishvili, unanimous decision</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804120/cropped_GettyImages-2238995293.jpg?ts=1759531472" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804120/w220xh124_GettyImages-2238995293.jpg?ts=1759531472 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804120/w320xh180_GettyImages-2238995293.jpg?ts=1759531472 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804120/w640xh360_GettyImages-2238995293.jpg?ts=1759531472 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804120/w768xh432_GettyImages-2238995293.jpg?ts=1759531472 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804120/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2238995293.jpg?ts=1759531472 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Light heavyweight bout</h3><p><strong>Jiri Prochazka (31-5-1)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Khalil Rountree Jr. (14-6, 1 NC)</strong></p><p>The two title fights at the top of UFC 320 are great, but this is the people's main event. Jiri Prochazka versus Khalil Rountree Jr. will either be one of the best fights of the year or end in a devastating knockout - or both. It's also a really tough one to call.</p><p>I'm leaning toward Prochazka to turn the fight into a slugfest and bust up Rountree down the stretch. But it wouldn't surprise me if Rountree takes advantage of Prochazka's suboptimal defense and either outworks or knocks out the former champion.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Prochazka, third-round TKO</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804122/cropped_GettyImages-2238997032.jpg?ts=1759531516" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804122/w220xh124_GettyImages-2238997032.jpg?ts=1759531516 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804122/w320xh180_GettyImages-2238997032.jpg?ts=1759531516 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804122/w640xh360_GettyImages-2238997032.jpg?ts=1759531516 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804122/w768xh432_GettyImages-2238997032.jpg?ts=1759531516 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804122/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2238997032.jpg?ts=1759531516 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Featherweight bout</h3><p><strong>Josh Emmett (19-5)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Youssef Zalal (17-5-1)</strong></p><p>Youssef Zalal has looked terrific since returning to the UFC in 2024, winning four fights with three finishes. A win over Josh Emmett would catapult him into the featherweight title mix. Emmett is the more seasoned fighter and has the most knockout power in the featherweight division, but it's hard to back a 40-year-old over a 29-year-old. Give me Zalal to outwork Emmett and score the biggest win of his career.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Zalal, unanimous decision</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804123/cropped_GettyImages-2238997080.jpg?ts=1759531554" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804123/w220xh124_GettyImages-2238997080.jpg?ts=1759531554 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804123/w320xh180_GettyImages-2238997080.jpg?ts=1759531554 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804123/w640xh360_GettyImages-2238997080.jpg?ts=1759531554 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804123/w768xh432_GettyImages-2238997080.jpg?ts=1759531554 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804123/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2238997080.jpg?ts=1759531554 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Middleweight bout</h3><p><strong>Abus Magomedov (28-6-1)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Joe Pyfer (14-3)</strong></p><p>I'm still not completely sold that Joe Pyfer is ready to be a contender in the middleweight division. Still, he's probably just good enough to get past someone of Abus Magomedov's caliber. I'll take Pyfer to score a late stoppage in a rather competitive fight.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Pyfer, third-round TKO</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804121/cropped_GettyImages-2238995504.jpg?ts=1759531512" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804121/w220xh124_GettyImages-2238995504.jpg?ts=1759531512 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804121/w320xh180_GettyImages-2238995504.jpg?ts=1759531512 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804121/w640xh360_GettyImages-2238995504.jpg?ts=1759531512 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804121/w768xh432_GettyImages-2238995504.jpg?ts=1759531512 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/804121/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2238995504.jpg?ts=1759531512 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32667459/related

UFC 320 predictions: Will Pereira retake the throne?

Usman Nurmagomedov earned a unanimous decision victory in his rematch with Paul Hughes, capturing...

<p>Usman Nurmagomedov earned a unanimous decision victory in his rematch with Paul Hughes, capturing the vacant PFL lightweight championship Saturday at Coca-Cola Arena in Dubai.</p><p>The judges scored the fight 50-45, 49-46, and 48-47 in Nurmagomedov's favor. However, the first two scorecards didn't seem to accurately reflect the competitiveness of the fight. PFL color commentator Jimmy Smith said on the broadcast he thought 48-47 was the correct score, and other pundits blasted the lopsided scorecards on social media.</p><p>Nurmagomedov, a former Bellator lightweight champion, added a second promotional title to his resume. He remains undefeated as a professional, with a record of 20-0 (1 NC).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The 27-year-old Dagestani now holds a 2-0 record against Hughes after beating him via majority decision in January in the final 155-pound title bout in Bellator history.</p><p>Saturday's rematch was another entertaining, back-and-forth fight after Nurmagomedov and Hughes delivered a Fight of the Year candidate earlier in 2025. Both men landed heavy shots on the feet, with Hughes perhaps getting the best of the exchanges, while Nurmagomedov excelled in the grappling department, taking Hughes' back and attacking the neck multiple times.</p><p>Nurmagomedov, a cousin of UFC Hall of Famer Khabib, returned to the cage for the first time since his first win over Hughes. He's now 9-0 (1 NC) under the PFL/Bellator banner.</p><p>Hughes, a 28-year-old from Belfast, Northern Ireland, fell to 3-2 in the PFL and 14-3 as a pro.</p><p>In the PFL Dubai co-main event, Corey Anderson defeated Dovlet Yagshimuradov by unanimous decision in a rematch to claim the vacant light heavyweight title.</p>

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - OCTOBER 03: Usman Nurmagomedov receives the Lightweight belt after defeating Paul Hughes of Ireland in the PFL Lightweight World Title Fight during the PFL Championship Series :Road to Dubai on October 03, 2025 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32661723/related

Nurmagomedov beats Hughes again to claim PFL title

The UFC returns to Las Vegas on Saturday night for a light heavyweight title rematch, as T-Mobile...

<p>The UFC returns to Las Vegas on Saturday night for a light heavyweight title rematch, as T-Mobile Arena plays host to UFC 320. In the main event, Magomed Ankalaev will defend his belt for the first time against former two-division champion Alex Pereira. In the co-main event, Merab Dvalishvili will put the bantamweight championship up for grabs versus Cory Sandhagen.</p><p>Here are some of the best bets for UFC 320.</p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-320&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3359384">Check out all the odds for UFC 320 on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3>👊 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=9d5d50fe-d44e-4024-9166-bb0516ef6b7f&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=5&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-320&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3359384">Favorite bet: Merab Dvalishvili (-400) def. Cory Sandhagen</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803829/cropped_GettyImages-2219118542.jpg?ts=1759348985" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803829/w220xh124_GettyImages-2219118542.jpg?ts=1759348985 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803829/w320xh180_GettyImages-2219118542.jpg?ts=1759348985 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803829/w640xh360_GettyImages-2219118542.jpg?ts=1759348985 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803829/w768xh432_GettyImages-2219118542.jpg?ts=1759348985 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803829/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2219118542.jpg?ts=1759348985 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ed Mulholland / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Given the form Dvalishvili has shown in recent years, it's hard to pick against him at 135 pounds. Sandhagen is no slouch himself, but he'll need to put on an absolute masterclass to have any shot at dethroning "The Machine." Dvalishvili's pace, control, and cardiovascular endurance should allow the Georgian to dictate where the fight goes, keep Sandhagen guessing, and ultimately grind his way to another successful title defense. Even though -400 is a pretty expensive price, Dvalishvili is worth it and would be a great addition to a parlay.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>
<strong>👊 </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b0d38be6-ce98-4f42-8a56-d6df3d111f49&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=4&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-320&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3359384">Best underdog bet: Khalil Rountree Jr. (+155) def. Jiri Prochazka</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791433/cropped_GettyImages-2221385317.jpg?ts=1750545034" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791433/w220xh124_GettyImages-2221385317.jpg?ts=1750545034 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791433/w320xh180_GettyImages-2221385317.jpg?ts=1750545034 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791433/w640xh360_GettyImages-2221385317.jpg?ts=1750545034 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791433/w768xh432_GettyImages-2221385317.jpg?ts=1750545034 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/791433/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2221385317.jpg?ts=1750545034 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ed Mulholland / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>There aren't too many intriguing underdogs on the UFC 320 card, but Khalil Rountree Jr. may be worth grabbing. The former light heavyweight title challenger is facing Jiri Prochazka in a fight that feels 50-50. Prochazka will win if it turns into a slugfest, but Rountree could pull off the upset if he stays composed and picks apart the former champion.</p><p>Prochazka deserves to be the favorite, but Rountree is a solid underdog pick.</p><h3>
<strong>👊 </strong><a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=b287d7ad-d15e-4957-8eed-04d2ef5db8da&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=7&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-320%2Fevent%2F49fc1979-83f3-46cf-bafe-ce5ab2ed4834&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3359384">Best prop bet: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alex Pereira goes over 2.5 rounds (-175)</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803954/cropped_GettyImages-2204069022.jpg?ts=1759432527" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803954/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204069022.jpg?ts=1759432527 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803954/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204069022.jpg?ts=1759432527 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803954/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204069022.jpg?ts=1759432527 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803954/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204069022.jpg?ts=1759432527 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/803954/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204069022.jpg?ts=1759432527 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The first Ankalaev-Pereira bout easily went the distance, and I don't have any reason to believe the rematch won't go past two-and-a-half rounds. An early Pereira knockout is always a possibility, but as we saw at UFC 313 in March, Ankalaev's pressure and clinch work lessen the chance of that happening. Saturday's main event will be another long fight.</p><blockquote><p><strong>👉 <a target="_blank" href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-320&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3359384">Check out all the odds for UFC 320 on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong></p></blockquote><h3>Main card</h3><ul>
<li>Magomed Ankalaev (-260) vs. Alex Pereira (+210)</li>
<li>Merab Dvalishvili (-400) vs. Cory Sandhagen (+300)</li>
<li>Jiri Prochazka (-185) vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. (+155)</li>
<li>Youssef Zalal (-550) vs. Josh Emmett (+375)</li>
<li>Joe Pyfer (-270) vs. Abus Magomedov (+220)</li>
</ul><h3>Preliminary card</h3><ul>
<li>Ateba Gautier (-2500) vs. Tre'ston Vines (+900)</li>
<li>Edmen Shahbazyan (-350) vs. Andre Muniz (+270)</li>
<li>Farid Basharat (-550) vs. Chris Gutierrez (+375)</li>
<li>Daniel Santos (-160) vs. JooSang Yoo (+135)</li>
</ul><h3>Early preliminary card</h3><ul>
<li>Macy Chiasson (-195) vs. Yana Santos (+165)</li>
<li>Patchy Mix (-330) vs. Jakub Wiklacz (+260)</li>
<li>Punahele Soriano (-330) vs. Nikolay Veretennikov (+260)</li>
<li>Austin Vanderford (-300) vs. Ramiz Brahimaj (+240)</li>
<li>Veronica Hardy (-800) vs. Brogan Walker (+500)</li>
</ul>

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32659575/related

UFC 320 bets: Will Ankalaev, Dvalishvili retain titles?

UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev and former champ Alex Pereira made weight Friday ...

<p>UFC light heavyweight champion Magomed Ankalaev and former champ Alex Pereira made weight Friday prior to squaring off for the second time in the UFC 320 main event Saturday in Las Vegas.</p><p>Ankalaev and Pereira both weighed in at 204.5 pounds.</p><p>Bantamweight titleholder Merab Dvalishvili and Cory Sandhagen were also on the mark for the co-main event. They came in at 135 and 134.5 pounds, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here are the UFC 320 weigh-in results.</p><h3>Main card (ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Magomed Ankalaev (204.5) vs. Alex Pereira (204.5)</li>
<li>Merab Dvalishvili (135) vs. Cory Sandhagen (134.5)</li>
<li>Jiri Prochazka (206) vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. (205)</li>
<li>Youssef Zalal (146) vs. Josh Emmett (146)</li>
<li>Joe Pyfer (186) vs. Abus Magomedov (185.5)</li>
</ul><h3>Preliminary card (ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Ateba Gautier (186) vs. Tre'ston Vines (185)</li>
<li>Edmen Shahbazyan (185.5) vs. Andre Muniz (185.5)</li>
<li>Farid Basharat (136) vs. Chris Gutierrez (136)</li>
<li>Daniel Santos (151) vs. JooSang Yoo (152.5)</li>
</ul><h3>Early preliminary card (ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Macy Chiasson (137.5)* vs. Yana Santos (135)</li>
<li>Patchy Mix (136) vs. Jakub Wiklacz (136)</li>
<li>Punahele Soriano (170.5) vs. Nikolay Veretennikov (170.5)</li>
<li>Ramiz Brahimaj (170.5) vs. Austin Vanderford (170.5)</li>
<li>Veronica Hardy (125.5) vs. Brogan Walker (124.5)</li>
</ul><p><em>*Missed bantamweight limit by 1.5 pounds.</em></p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - OCTOBER 03: Magomed Ankalaev of Russia poses on the scale during the UFC 320 official weigh-ins at UFC Apex on October 03, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32658655/related

UFC 320 weigh-in results: Ankalaev, Pereira cleared for rematch

UFC 320 is upon us.  In Saturday's main event, Magomed Ankalaev defends the light heavyweight tit...

<p>UFC 320 is upon us.</p><p>In Saturday's main event, Magomed Ankalaev defends the light heavyweight title in an immediate rematch with former two-division champion Alex Pereira. In the co-headliner, bantamweight champ Merab Dvalishvili puts his belt on the line against Cory Sandhagen.</p><p>Here are three key storylines ahead of the UFC's return to T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Is Pereira's career on the line vs. Ankalaev?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774301/cropped_GettyImages-2204072149.jpg?ts=1741553108" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774301/w220xh124_GettyImages-2204072149.jpg?ts=1741553108 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774301/w320xh180_GettyImages-2204072149.jpg?ts=1741553108 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774301/w640xh360_GettyImages-2204072149.jpg?ts=1741553108 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774301/w768xh432_GettyImages-2204072149.jpg?ts=1741553108 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/774301/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2204072149.jpg?ts=1741553108 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sure, it might be a tad dramatic to suggest Pereira's career would be over if he loses to Ankalaev for a second straight time this weekend. But no one ever wants to be 0-2 against the current champion in their division, and that's the predicament Pereira would find himself in if he comes up short at UFC 320.</p><p>This time last year, the Brazilian was about to make his third successful title defense of 2024, a TKO win over Khalil Rountree Jr. to cement one of the best campaigns we've seen in MMA. Now, he's one loss away from sitting outside the title picture for the first time since he joined the UFC.</p><p>There's always a chance Pereira could turn things around if he loses to Ankalaev again, but at 38 years old, it's not particularly likely. It would be tough to work his way back to a title shot as long as Ankalaev is champion. And looking beyond the light heavyweight division, there wouldn't be much appetite for superfights against Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall anymore - matchups that, not even a year ago, would've been major box-office attractions.</p><p>While a second defeat to Ankalaev wouldn't necessarily be a death sentence for Pereira's career, it would be a sign that his time as one of the UFC's biggest stars is over for good.</p><h3>Dvalishvili seeking Fighter of the Year award</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789442/cropped_GettyImages-2219120442.jpg?ts=1749409609" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789442/w220xh124_GettyImages-2219120442.jpg?ts=1749409609 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789442/w320xh180_GettyImages-2219120442.jpg?ts=1749409609 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789442/w640xh360_GettyImages-2219120442.jpg?ts=1749409609 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789442/w768xh432_GettyImages-2219120442.jpg?ts=1749409609 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/789442/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2219120442.jpg?ts=1749409609 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Elsa / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dvalishvili is on a roll.</p><p>The bantamweight champ is looking to become just the eighth fighter in UFC history to record three successful title defenses in a calendar year. He upset Umar Nurmagomedov in January, finished Sean O'Malley in their rematch in June, and is now hoping to get past another top contender in Sandhagen.</p><p>As we've progressed through 2025, it's become clear that this might be the year of "The Machine." Dvalishvili has been very impressive, outmatching his opponents and smashing records. If he beats Sandhagen on Saturday, the Fighter of the Year award will be his to lose.</p><p>The winner of the UFC 322 main event between Jack Della Maddalena and Islam Makhachev will also have a solid argument, but it's tough to go against three straight title defenses in one of the promotion's deepest divisions.</p><h3>Who's getting the next light heavyweight title shot after Pereira?</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766148/cropped_GettyImages-2194643230.jpg?ts=1737261062" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766148/w220xh124_GettyImages-2194643230.jpg?ts=1737261062 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766148/w320xh180_GettyImages-2194643230.jpg?ts=1737261062 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766148/w640xh360_GettyImages-2194643230.jpg?ts=1737261062 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766148/w768xh432_GettyImages-2194643230.jpg?ts=1737261062 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/766148/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2194643230.jpg?ts=1737261062 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>The light heavyweight division will get some clarity at UFC 320.</p><p>The main event between Ankalaev and Pereira isn't the only big 205-pound matchup on the card. Additionally, former champion Jiri Prochazka will square off with Rountree in a fight that could determine the No. 1 contender.</p><p>However, a title shot for the winner of Prochazka-Rountree is far from a sure thing. Carlos Ulberg is also on the hunt for a crack at the belt, and he set a high bar last weekend in Perth, Australia, when he knocked out Dominick Reyes in violent fashion. Prochazka and Rountree will need to deliver if they want to jump ahead of Ulberg in the title race.</p><p>It'll also depend on who leaves UFC 320 with the belt. If Ankalaev remains champion, the promotion will have several options, as the Dagestani has never fought Prochazka, Rountree, or Ulberg. Prochazka might be the biggest matchup of those three. Pereira, on the other hand, has beaten Prochazka twice and Rountree once, making Ulberg the front-runner if "Poatan" regains the title.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - MARCH 08: (L-R) Alex Pereira of Brazil faces Magomed Ankalaev of Russia in the UFC light heavyweight championship fight during the UFC 313 event at T-Mobile Arena on March 08, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32645422/related

3 biggest storylines ahead of UFC 320

Two marquee matchups are set for the UFC's debut event in Qatar next month.  Lightweight contende...

<p>Two marquee matchups are set for the UFC's debut event in Qatar next month.</p><p>Lightweight contenders Arman Tsarukyan and Dan Hooker will headline the Nov. 22 Fight Night card in Doha, Qatar, UFC CEO Dana White announced Wednesday.</p><p>Former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad will return against Ian Machado Garry in the co-main event.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Tsarukyan hasn't stepped into the Octagon since earning a split-decision win over former 155-pound champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 in April 2024. The 28-year-old was scheduled to challenge Islam Makhachev for the title at UFC 311 in January, but he withdrew the day before the event due to an injury. White later indicated that Tsarukyan would have to win another fight to earn a title shot again.</p><p>Hooker, the No. 6-ranked lightweight, has also been idle for over a year. The 35-year-old is coming off a split-decision victory over Mateusz Gamrot in August 2024. Hooker has won three straight.</p><p>Muhammad is looking to get back on track after dropping the 170-pound title in a unanimous decision loss to Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 315 in May. The 37-year-old was riding an 11-fight unbeaten streak before that fight.</p><p>Garry beat Carlos Prates in his most recent Octagon appearance, earning a unanimous decision in the UFC Kansas City main event in April. The 27-year-old holds a 9-1 record in the promotion.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - APRIL 13: Arman Tsarukyan of Georgia prepares to fight in a lightweight fight during the UFC 300 event at T-Mobile Arena on April 13, 2024 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32640497/related

Tsarukyan-Hooker, Muhammad-Garry to headline UFC Qatar

UFC legend Dustin Poirier doesn't plan to come out of retirement to compete in mixed martial arts...

<p>UFC legend Dustin Poirier doesn't plan to come out of retirement to compete in mixed martial arts again, but he says he'd be willing to face Nate Diaz in a boxing match.</p><p>"Zuffa Boxing, (12 rounds), me and Nathaniel. I'd do it," Poirier <a href="https://x.com/DustinPoirier/status/1972884857102717423">wrote</a> Monday night on X. "Only one more fight I'd take."</p><p>He <a href="https://x.com/DustinPoirier/status/1972886134679277942">added</a>: "I'm retired, I'm done, but Nate is one that got away."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Poirier, a former interim lightweight champion, retired from MMA in July after he lost to Max Holloway in a trilogy bout at UFC 318 in his home state of Louisiana.</p><p>Poirier and Diaz were scheduled to square off in a marquee bout in the UFC in 2018, but Poirier withdrew due to an injury. They've both talked about rescheduling the matchup several times since, but it never materialized in the Octagon.</p><p>Diaz, one of the biggest stars in MMA history, left the promotion in 2022 and has since competed twice in boxing. He suffered a unanimous decision loss to Jake Paul in his professional debut in 2023 and then earned a win over former UFC title challenger Jorge Masvidal last year.</p><p>Zuffa Boxing, headed by UFC CEO Dana White, is expected to hold its first event in 2026. On Monday, it announced a long-term U.S. media rights deal with Paramount+ and CBS.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JULY 18: Dustin Poirier poses on the scale during the UFC 318 ceremonial weigh-ins at Smoothie King Center on July 18, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32629035/related

Poirier open to boxing match vs. Nate Diaz: 'I'd do it'

Mateusz Gamrot has replaced Rafael Fiziev and will square off with Charles Oliveira in the UFC Ri...

<p>Mateusz Gamrot has replaced Rafael Fiziev and will square off with Charles Oliveira in the UFC Rio de Janeiro main event Oct. 11, the promotion announced Tuesday.</p><p>Fiziev withdrew from the card last week due to an undisclosed injury.</p><p>Gamrot, the No. 8-ranked lightweight, is coming off a unanimous decision win over Ludovit Klein in May. The 34-year-old Polish fighter is 4-1 in his past five Octagon appearances.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Oliveira, a former 155-pound champion, is looking to get back on track after suffering a devastating knockout loss to Ilia Topuria in a vacant title bout at UFC 317 in June. "Do Bronx" is 2-2 in his last four outings.</p><p>The 35-year-old Oliveira will compete in his native Brazil for the first time since March 2020.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JULY 18: Mateusz Gamrot is seen on stage during a Q&A session prior to the UFC 318 ceremonial weigh-ins at Smoothie King Center on July 18, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32531443/related

Gamrot steps in to face Oliveira at UFC Rio

The Los Angeles Dodgers were left puzzled after yet another disappointing loss Friday.  The defen...

<p>The Los Angeles Dodgers were left puzzled after yet another disappointing loss Friday.</p><p>The defending World Series champions fell to the Baltimore Orioles, who sit in fifth place in the AL East, 2-1 at Camden Yards. Orioles rookie <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/17667" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/17667">Samuel Basallo</a> hit a home run off <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5525" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5525">Tanner Scott</a> in the bottom of the ninth to secure the walk-off victory.</p><p>The struggling Dodgers have lost four in a row and six of their last seven games.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"Sometimes, you just don't have the right answers," Dodgers first baseman <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/1412" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/1412">Freddie Freeman</a> told reporters postgame, according to the <a href="https://www.latimes.com/sports/dodgers/story/2025-09-05/dodgers-shohei-ohtani-pitching-tyler-glasnow-scratched">Los Angeles Times' Jack Harris</a>. "Not going to sit here and give some cliches. We're just not playing very good. ... There's no sugarcoating this. We need to figure this out, and figure this out quick."</p><p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9519" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9519">Shohei Ohtani</a>, who stepped in on five hours' notice as the Dodgers' starting pitcher after <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4257" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4257">Tyler Glasnow</a> was scratched with back tightness, performed well on the mound, tossing 3⅔ scoreless innings with five strikeouts and three hits allowed. However, Los Angeles struggled to generate offense throughout the game, with Orioles starter <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8585" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8585">Dean Kremer</a> and six relievers holding them to just five hits.</p><p>"Not scoring runs, it's just not who we are," Freeman said. "We're not getting anything going. We're not getting the hits."</p><p>"We haven't for a while," he added. "I truly have no answers."</p><p>Scott accepted responsibility for the loss after giving up his 10th home run of the season. The closer has a 4.52 ERA and has allowed 10 earned runs in his last nine innings pitched dating back to July 6. </p><p>"I just keep making terrible pitch selections right when it matters, and it's costing us every time," Scott said. "It sucks. It feels terrible. And I have to figure it out. Because baseball hates me right now."</p><p>Dodgers manager Dave Roberts seems aware that something needs to change.</p><p>"I know each day the guys come in fresh, prepared, and expecting a different result," Roberts said. "But we're just not getting it done."</p><p>Ohtani, meanwhile, thinks he knows why the team is struggling.</p><p>"We individually are trying to find ways on our own to ... (be) hitting better than we are," Ohtani said through an interpreter. "But I think the side effect of that is, we're a little too eager and putting too much pressure on ourselves. That's really hurting us more than it's helping."</p><p>The Dodgers remain in first place in the NL West and hold a 78-63 record this season. They play the Orioles again Saturday evening.</p>

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 2: Freddie Freeman #5 of the Los Angeles Dodgers in action during the game against the Pittsburgh Pirates at PNC Park on September 2, 2025 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32297281/related

Dodgers' Freeman after 4th straight loss: 'Truly have no answers'

One of UFC Paris' most anticipated fights is off.  The featherweight bout between Patricio "Pitbu...

<p>One of UFC Paris' most anticipated fights is off.</p><p>The featherweight bout between Patricio "Pitbull" Freire and Losene Keita was canceled Friday after Keita weighed in at 149 pounds, three pounds over the divisional limit.</p><p>The promotion announced the matchup was off due to Keita's "weight management issues."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>UFC Paris is scheduled to take place Saturday at Accor Arena. It will proceed with 13 fights, including the main event between middleweight contenders Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho.</p><p>Freire ripped into Keita, a former Oktagon MMA two-division champion who was slated to make his UFC debut, after the weight miss. The 38-year-old Brazilian revealed he declined the fight because he didn't want Keita to have an "advantage."</p><p>"(Keita) said in an interview he was faster, stronger, younger. ... He had all the advantages and still didn't make weight, so I wouldn't give him that advantage," Freire said in Portuguese in a video posted by the UFC, according to <a href="https://www.mmafighting.com/ufc/402409/patricio-pitbull-blasts-fat-panther-losene-keita-ufc-paris-weight-miss">MMA Fighting's Guilherme Cruz</a>. "At this stage, I don't fight for money anymore, I fight for legacy, and I won't give him that advantage."</p><p>Freire added: "If you want to blame anyone, blame my opponent. Black Panther, he's 'Fat Panther.'"</p><p>Keita, a 27-year-old Guinean-born Belgian fighter, apologized for missing weight.</p><p>"For the first time in 25 fights, I failed to make weight, and it had to happen on my UFC debut," Keita <a href="https://x.com/keita_losene/status/1963939185049456929">wrote</a> on X. "I wanted to continue and would have given everything to make weight, but my body didn't want it."</p><p>Freire told <a href="https://x.com/full_send_mma/status/1963903462283821263">Full Send MMA</a> he wants to return at UFC Rio de Janeiro on Oct. 11 and mentioned Arnold Allen as a potential opponent.</p><p>The former Bellator two-division champion was scheduled to make his third Octagon appearance against Keita. Freire debuted in the UFC in April and has gone 1-1 so far.</p>

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - JULY 19: Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire of Brazil prepares to face Dan Ige in a featherweight bout during the UFC 318 event at Smoothie King Center on July 19, 2025 in New Orleans, Louisiana.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32285570/related

Pitbull blasts UFC Paris foe after weight miss cancels fight

Former world champions Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather have agreed to square off in an exhibition...

<p>Former world champions Mike Tyson and Floyd Mayweather have agreed to square off in an exhibition boxing match next spring, it was announced Thursday.</p><p>A date and location are to be determined.</p><p>The bout will be promoted by CSI Sports, a "leading global multimedia business" founded in 1997, according to the company's website.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="instagram-media" data-instgrm-captioned="" data-instgrm-permalink="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOMvEtjAVTe/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" data-instgrm-version="14" style=" background:#FFF; border:0; border-radius:3px; box-shadow:0 0 1px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.5),0 1px 10px 0 rgba(0,0,0,0.15); margin: 1px; max-width:540px; min-width:326px; padding:0; width:99.375%; width:-webkit-calc(100% - 2px); width:calc(100% - 2px);"><div style="padding:16px;"> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOMvEtjAVTe/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" background:#FFFFFF; line-height:0; padding:0 0; text-align:center; text-decoration:none; width:100%;" target="_blank"> <div style=" display: flex; flex-direction: row; align-items: center;"> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 40px; margin-right: 14px; width: 40px;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 100px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 60px;"></div>
</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 19% 0;"></div> <div style="display:block; height:50px; margin:0 auto 12px; width:50px;"><svg width="50px" height="50px" viewbox="0 0 60 60" version="1.1" xmlns="https://www.w3.org/2000/svg" xmlns:xlink="https://www.w3.org/1999/xlink"><g stroke="none" stroke-width="1" fill="none" fill-rule="evenodd"><g transform="translate(-511.000000, -20.000000)" fill="#000000"><g><path d="M556.869,30.41 C554.814,30.41 553.148,32.076 553.148,34.131 C553.148,36.186 554.814,37.852 556.869,37.852 C558.924,37.852 560.59,36.186 560.59,34.131 C560.59,32.076 558.924,30.41 556.869,30.41 M541,60.657 C535.114,60.657 530.342,55.887 530.342,50 C530.342,44.114 535.114,39.342 541,39.342 C546.887,39.342 551.658,44.114 551.658,50 C551.658,55.887 546.887,60.657 541,60.657 M541,33.886 C532.1,33.886 524.886,41.1 524.886,50 C524.886,58.899 532.1,66.113 541,66.113 C549.9,66.113 557.115,58.899 557.115,50 C557.115,41.1 549.9,33.886 541,33.886 M565.378,62.101 C565.244,65.022 564.756,66.606 564.346,67.663 C563.803,69.06 563.154,70.057 562.106,71.106 C561.058,72.155 560.06,72.803 558.662,73.347 C557.607,73.757 556.021,74.244 553.102,74.378 C549.944,74.521 548.997,74.552 541,74.552 C533.003,74.552 532.056,74.521 528.898,74.378 C525.979,74.244 524.393,73.757 523.338,73.347 C521.94,72.803 520.942,72.155 519.894,71.106 C518.846,70.057 518.197,69.06 517.654,67.663 C517.244,66.606 516.755,65.022 516.623,62.101 C516.479,58.943 516.448,57.996 516.448,50 C516.448,42.003 516.479,41.056 516.623,37.899 C516.755,34.978 517.244,33.391 517.654,32.338 C518.197,30.938 518.846,29.942 519.894,28.894 C520.942,27.846 521.94,27.196 523.338,26.654 C524.393,26.244 525.979,25.756 528.898,25.623 C532.057,25.479 533.004,25.448 541,25.448 C548.997,25.448 549.943,25.479 553.102,25.623 C556.021,25.756 557.607,26.244 558.662,26.654 C560.06,27.196 561.058,27.846 562.106,28.894 C563.154,29.942 563.803,30.938 564.346,32.338 C564.756,33.391 565.244,34.978 565.378,37.899 C565.522,41.056 565.552,42.003 565.552,50 C565.552,57.996 565.522,58.943 565.378,62.101 M570.82,37.631 C570.674,34.438 570.167,32.258 569.425,30.349 C568.659,28.377 567.633,26.702 565.965,25.035 C564.297,23.368 562.623,22.342 560.652,21.575 C558.743,20.834 556.562,20.326 553.369,20.18 C550.169,20.033 549.148,20 541,20 C532.853,20 531.831,20.033 528.631,20.18 C525.438,20.326 523.257,20.834 521.349,21.575 C519.376,22.342 517.703,23.368 516.035,25.035 C514.368,26.702 513.342,28.377 512.574,30.349 C511.834,32.258 511.326,34.438 511.181,37.631 C511.035,40.831 511,41.851 511,50 C511,58.147 511.035,59.17 511.181,62.369 C511.326,65.562 511.834,67.743 512.574,69.651 C513.342,71.625 514.368,73.296 516.035,74.965 C517.703,76.634 519.376,77.658 521.349,78.425 C523.257,79.167 525.438,79.673 528.631,79.82 C531.831,79.965 532.853,80.001 541,80.001 C549.148,80.001 550.169,79.965 553.369,79.82 C556.562,79.673 558.743,79.167 560.652,78.425 C562.623,77.658 564.297,76.634 565.965,74.965 C567.633,73.296 568.659,71.625 569.425,69.651 C570.167,67.743 570.674,65.562 570.82,62.369 C570.966,59.17 571,58.147 571,50 C571,41.851 570.966,40.831 570.82,37.631"></path></g></g></g></svg></div>
<div style="padding-top: 8px;"> <div style=" color:#3897f0; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:550; line-height:18px;">View this post on Instagram</div>
</div>
<div style="padding: 12.5% 0;"></div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; margin-bottom: 14px; align-items: center;">
<div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(0px) translateY(7px);"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; height: 12.5px; transform: rotate(-45deg) translateX(3px) translateY(1px); width: 12.5px; flex-grow: 0; margin-right: 14px; margin-left: 2px;"></div> <div style="background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; height: 12.5px; width: 12.5px; transform: translateX(9px) translateY(-18px);"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 8px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 50%; flex-grow: 0; height: 20px; width: 20px;"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 2px solid transparent; border-left: 6px solid #f4f4f4; border-bottom: 2px solid transparent; transform: translateX(16px) translateY(-4px) rotate(30deg)"></div>
</div>
<div style="margin-left: auto;"> <div style=" width: 0px; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-right: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(16px);"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; flex-grow: 0; height: 12px; width: 16px; transform: translateY(-4px);"></div> <div style=" width: 0; height: 0; border-top: 8px solid #F4F4F4; border-left: 8px solid transparent; transform: translateY(-4px) translateX(8px);"></div>
</div>
</div> <div style="display: flex; flex-direction: column; flex-grow: 1; justify-content: center; margin-bottom: 24px;"> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; margin-bottom: 6px; width: 224px;"></div> <div style=" background-color: #F4F4F4; border-radius: 4px; flex-grow: 0; height: 14px; width: 144px;"></div>
</div></a><p style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; line-height:17px; margin-bottom:0; margin-top:8px; overflow:hidden; padding:8px 0 7px; text-align:center; text-overflow:ellipsis; white-space:nowrap;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/p/DOMvEtjAVTe/?utm_source=ig_embed&amp;utm_campaign=loading" style=" color:#c9c8cd; font-family:Arial,sans-serif; font-size:14px; font-style:normal; font-weight:normal; line-height:17px; text-decoration:none;" target="_blank">A post shared by All the Smoke Boxing (@atsboxing)</a></p>
</div></blockquote>
<script async="" src="https://www.instagram.com/embed.js"></script></figure><p>Tyson, 59, will return to the ring for the first time since suffering a unanimous decision loss in a pro fight against YouTube star turned prizefighter Jake Paul last November. Tyson is a former heavyweight champion and one of the most devastating knockout artists in boxing history.</p><p>"This fight is something neither the world nor I ever thought would or could happen," Tyson said in a press release. "However, boxing has entered a new era of the unpredictable - and this fight is as unpredictable as it gets. I still can't believe Floyd wants to really do this. It's going to be detrimental to his health, but he wants to do it, so it's signed and it's happening."</p><p>Mayweather, 48, is significantly smaller than Tyson, having competed between junior lightweight and junior middleweight throughout his legendary career. He retired from pro competition in 2017 after knocking out UFC star Conor McGregor to lift his record to 50-0. However, Mayweather has since competed in several exhibitions, including a high-profile matchup against Logan Paul in 2021. He most recently stepped into the ring in August 2024, dominating John Gotti III in a rematch.</p><p>"I've been doing this for 30 years, and there hasn't been a single fighter that can tarnish my legacy," Mayweather said in the release. "You already know that if I am going to do something, it's going to be big and it's going to be legendary. I'm the best in the business of boxing. This exhibition will give the fans what they want."</p>

ARLINGTON, TEXAS - NOVEMBER 15: Mike Tyson fights during LIVE On Netflix: Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson at AT&T Stadium on November 15, 2024 in Arlington, Texas.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32279660/related

Tyson, Mayweather set for 2026 exhibition bout

Former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold is likely hanging up the gloves for good after his...

<p>Former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold is likely hanging up the gloves for good after his brutal knockout loss to Darren Till.</p><p>Rockhold made his professional boxing debut against Till, a fellow UFC veteran, in the main event of Misfits Boxing 22 last weekend in Manchester, England. Till dropped Rockhold in the first round and then put him to sleep with a vicious combination in the third.</p><p>Rockhold said Wednesday it was one of the "worst" losses of his career and has forced him to contemplate retirement.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"I am 40 years old, and I can't be taking shots like that," Rockhold told "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDUP99Mz6B4">The Ariel Helwani Show</a>." "I want a future for myself, and I got a lot of good things in the works. That's pretty much - it's right about that time. There's not much left to do. I've done a lot in this sport. I've won my championships. I've done Karate Combat. I've done bare knuckle. I've done boxing. I don't know what else. Jiu-jitsu at the top level.</p><p>"I can compete with the best of the best, but I think it's time to put the competition shoes on hold for the time of times. I don't know. We'll see."</p><p>Rockhold is one of the most accomplished middleweights in MMA history. He won his first major title under the Strikeforce banner in 2011 and then captured the UFC championship in 2015. Rockhold holds wins over the likes of Chris Weidman, Michael Bisping, Lyoto Machida, and Ronaldo "Jacare" Souza.</p><p>The Santa Cruz, California, native last competed in MMA in August 2022 when he suffered a unanimous decision loss to Paulo Costa at UFC 278. Rockhold announced his retirement after that fight but has since dabbled in various combat sports and promotions, including BKFC, Karate Combat, and now Misfits Boxing.</p><p>Rockhold said he'll always have "other forms of competition" in his life, but added that he's content putting fighting in the rearview mirror.</p><p>"I'm pretty happy with where I'm at," Rockhold said. "I still will continue to train, I still will continue to test people. ... We always have top-tier talent coming through Newport Beach here. I always like to test people. I might not want to take the hardest shots from the biggest hitters, but I'm gonna test myself. I want to keep pushing myself. But the real competition, I think, is gonna be behind me."</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH - AUGUST 20: Luke Rockhold stands in his corner before facing Paulo Costa of Brazil in a middleweight fight during the UFC 278 event at Vivint Arena on August 20, 2022 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

https://rich-content.thescore.com/content_cards/32278182/related

Rockhold ponders retirement after KO loss: 'I can't be taking shots like that'

https://rich-content.thescore.com/authors/nick-baldwin/content_cards