Reinier de Ridder, famously known as "The Dutch Knight," is set to turn a new page in his mixed martial arts career. After a successful tenure with ONE Championship, de Ridder has now joined UAE Warriors, ready to showcase his skills on a new platform. De Ridder (16-2) will make his highly anticipated debut against Magomedmurad Khasaev on July 27 in Abu Dhabi. This light heavyweight contest promises to be a thrilling encounter, as both fighters bring impressive records and fighting styles to the cage. De Ridder's journey in the ONE Championship was nothing short of spectacular. Between 2019 and 2022, he secured seven consecutive victories, dominating the middleweight and light heavyweight divisions. His victories over renowned fighters like Aung La N Sang, Vitaly Bigdash, and Kiamrian Abbasov through submission moves solidified his reputation as a top contender. Despite his recent losses to Anatoly Malykhin, de Ridder's legacy in Asia remains strong. Standing across from de Ridder will be Magomedmurad Khasaev (6-1), a fighter known for his knockout prowess. Khasaev's record speaks for itself, with all his victories coming via knockout. His impressive performance in his ONE debut against Arash Mardani in 2023 showcased his striking abilities. Although he faced a setback against Agilan Thani, Khasaev's determination and power make him a formidable opponent. UAE Warriors 51, airing live on UFC Fight Pass, promises an action-packed night. In addition to de Ridder vs. Khasaev, the event features a lightweight title defense by Amru Magomedov against Ali Kabdulla. Magomedov, a teammate of UFC lightweight champion Islam Makhachev and UFC Hall of Famer Khabib Nurmagomedov, adds further star power to the card. The excitement doesn't end there. The following day, UAE Warriors 52: Arabia 14 will take place in Abu Dhabi, headlined by Kevin Oumar vs. Mohamed Juma. As de Ridder prepares to make his debut in UAE Warriors, fans eagerly anticipate what "The Dutch Knight" will bring to the cage. With his impressive track record and undeniable talent, this fight on July 27 is set to be a highlight of the MMA calendar.

The Noche UFC card on September 14 promises to be a spectacle unlike any other, even with a reduced number of fights. During an interview on "The Pat McAfee Show," UFC CEO Dana White revealed that this highly anticipated event, also known as UFC 306, will feature only 10 bouts, but the cost of staging it is already a staggering $17 million. “We’re going to do 10 [fights],” White told McAfee. “There will be a main, co-main, and obviously this card will be very Mexican-heavy.” White kept the specifics of the fight lineup under wraps, but host Ariel Helwani mentioned on "The MMA Hour" that discussions are underway for a bantamweight title fight between Sean O’Malley and Merab Dvalishvili, as well as a potential title defense for women’s flyweight champion Alexa Grasso, possibly against Valentina Shevchenko or another top contender. White has been vocal about the unique nature of the UFC's venture into Sphere, promising it will be a groundbreaking event. “I’m already $17 million into this thing, and we’re not anywhere near September yet,” White said. “I keep telling you guys: It’s gonna be the most unique, badass show you’ve ever seen in sports.” Lineup Highlights: Anthony Hernandez vs. Michel Pereira Irene Aldana vs. Norma Dumont Yazmin Jauregui vs. Ketlen Souza Ignacio Bahamondes vs. Manuel Torres Kevin Borjas vs. Edgar Chairez Ode Osbourne vs. Luis Rodriguez White’s emphasis on a “Mexican-heavy” card hints at a celebration of Mexican talent and heritage, likely to resonate with fans and fighters alike. The inclusion of high-profile names such as O’Malley and Grasso suggests that the UFC is sparing no expense in delivering an unforgettable experience. With the event set to take place at the cutting-edge Sphere, fans can expect a visual and auditory extravaganza. White’s bold investment underscores his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a UFC event can be. As anticipation builds, the MMA community eagerly awaits more details about the matchups and the innovative elements that will define Noche UFC at Sphere. One thing is certain: September 14 is set to mark a new era in UFC history.

The aftermath of Fanmio's debut into the combat sports world has taken a dramatic turn, with UFC star Nate Diaz filing a lawsuit against the company for fraud and breach of contract. The lawsuit arises from the July 6 boxing match between Nate Diaz and Jorge Masvidal, held at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California. Diaz emerged victorious by majority decision, but his triumph in the ring has been overshadowed by a legal battle over unpaid earnings. Diaz claims Fanmio owes him $10 million for his participation in the fight but has only paid $1 million so far. According to a copy of the lawsuit, Diaz filed the case in the U.S. District Court in Miami, accusing Fanmio's CEO and founder Solomon Engel of refusing to honor their financial agreement. TMZ first broke the news of the lawsuit, which reveals Engel’s reluctance to pay the full $10 million due to the fight not meeting financial expectations. Engel reportedly informed Diaz that he couldn’t fulfill the payment because it could lead to personal financial ruin, stating, “his wife might divorce him over the financial loss.” Diaz, 39, asserts that he would never have agreed to the bout if he had known the payment was in jeopardy. His lawsuit seeks to recover the full amount promised, emphasizing that both verbal and written agreements guaranteed the $10 million payout. This legal confrontation follows a high-profile boxing rematch between Diaz and Masvidal. The two originally faced off in an MMA bout at UFC 244 in November 2019, where Masvidal won by TKO due to a doctor's stoppage, claiming the inaugural BMF title. The recent boxing match was highly anticipated, rekindling the rivalry between the two fighters. This lawsuit highlights the financial risks and uncertainties in combat sports promotions, particularly for fighters who rely heavily on contractual agreements. As the case unfolds, it underscores the critical importance of financial transparency and trust in the rapidly growing world of combat sports entertainment.

On August 16, PFL featherweights Jordan Oliver and Braydon Akeo will face off in a highly anticipated matchup during the league’s postseason card. Oliver was initially scheduled to fight Juan Gandara at PFL 6, but the match was canceled on short notice. Jordan Oliver, a former NCAA Division-I wrestling standout, is making his second appearance in MMA after a year-long hiatus. Oliver debuted professionally with a victory over Andrew Triolo at Bellator 298 last August. Following a successful wrestling career at Oklahoma State University, where he won gold at the NCAA Division I Championships in 2011 and 2013 and a silver in 2012, Oliver transitioned to MMA last year. During his time with the Cowboys, he capped off his college wrestling career with an impeccable 38-0 season and four Big-12 Conference championships. His opponent, Braydon Akeo, fights out of MMA Lab in Phoenix. Akeo is returning to the cage after a loss to Ricardo Fuentes at Cage Fury FC 131 in April. Before that setback, he secured back-to-back stoppage victories in brief stints with RUF and Next Level Fight Club. Akeo made his Bellator debut in 2019 at Bellator 235, suffering a unanimous decision loss to Ty-wan Claxton, which ended his three-fight winning streak at the start of his professional career. Both fighters aim to make a significant impact on one of the biggest PFL cards of the year, set in Hollywood, FL. The event’s main highlight is a light heavyweight playoff matchup between Impa Kasanganay and Josh Silveira, a rematch of last year’s PFL light heavyweight championship bout. Additionally, the PFL light heavyweight and lightweight semifinalists will vie for a spot in the 2024 PFL Championships, making this event a pivotal moment for many fighters. As Oliver and Akeo prepare to step into the cage, fans can expect a thrilling contest between two athletes eager to prove themselves in the PFL. Oliver’s wrestling pedigree and Akeo’s resilience promise an electrifying encounter that could be a highlight of the night.

UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones is once again in the legal spotlight, this time facing two misdemeanor charges stemming from a tense encounter with a drug-testing agent at his home on March 30. Jones is charged with assault, a petty misdemeanor, and interference with communications, a misdemeanor. His virtual bond hearing is set for July 17 at 9:15 a.m. MT in New Mexico. This information was confirmed by Bernalillo County Court representatives in an email to MMA Fighting on Monday. If found guilty on both counts, Jones could face less than a year in jail, along with fines totaling $1,500. The charges arise from an incident involving drug-testing agents from Drug-Free Sport, UFC’s anti-doping partner. The agents visited Jones' home for a random sample collection. Crystal Martinez, one of the agents, reported that Jones became "agitated" when he couldn’t provide a urine sample and was instead offered a blood test. Martinez alleged that Jones began questioning the agents, asking if they had money because he planned to sue them. She also claimed that Jones grabbed her phone and started recording. According to Martinez, Jones stood less than a foot away from her, leaving her "terrified" and worried he might strike her. Jones has strongly denied these allegations. In a statement issued in April, he explained his side of the story: "I was recently visited by testers while I was celebrating a birthday and taking a nap. Upon waking up, I was caught off guard by the unprofessionalism and protocol by one of the testers, which caused frustration leading me to use some profanity I regret. However, I want to emphasize that at no point did I threaten, get in anyone’s face, raise my voice to anyone, or engage in any form of assault." He added, "It’s unfortunate that false news has been spread without proper fact-checking. I want to assure you that I will vigorously defend myself against these baseless accusations. The truth is, the incident simply did not occur." During his upcoming hearing on July 17, Jones will be informed of the charges against him and required to enter a plea. Following this, the judge will set the conditions for his release while the case is pending. A bench trial is expected to be scheduled within 30 to 45 days. Meanwhile, Jones is gearing up for a return to the octagon. He is preparing to defend his heavyweight title against former champion Stipe Miocic, with the fight anticipated to take place in November at Madison Square Garden in New York. This legal matter adds another layer of complexity to Jones' already eventful career.

Sean Strickland Apologizes to David Goggins After Social Media Spat In the ever-dramatic world of combat sports, the latest buzz surrounds UFC middleweight contender Sean Strickland and motivational speaker and former Navy SEAL David Goggins. The feud, which recently took social media by storm, began when a video of Strickland sparring with and severely outclassing a former Navy SEAL went viral. This sparked a heated exchange between Strickland and Goggins, ultimately leading to an unexpected apology from the UFC fighter. The Sparring Session that Started It All With Sean Strickland The viral video showcased Strickland in the gym, delivering a dominant performance against a former Navy SEAL. The footage quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing mixed reactions from fans and commentators alike. While some praised Strickland's skill and intensity, others criticized him for seemingly targeting a non-professional fighter. The Social Media Showdown David Goggins, known for his incredible endurance and mental toughness, didn’t take kindly to the video. He took to social media, challenging Strickland to a unique proposition: "I'll take you on in rounds of boxing if you can endure three days of training under my regime." Strickland, never one to back down from a challenge, fired back with his own series of posts, which ranged from dismissive to outright confrontational. The back-and-forth exchange fueled speculation about a potential face-off between the two, captivating the combat sports community. The Apology In a surprising turn of events, Sean Strickland took to Instagram to issue an apology to Goggins. His post read: "Ok fine… I’m sorry Goggins you’re cool I’m just bored and angry… You can show up but if not it’s cool man you’re a solid runner, you have some cool quotes… My mental stability is coming back lol." This unexpected apology reveals a more reflective side of Strickland, suggesting that his recent frustrations may be tied to his career trajectory. Strickland has been vocal about his disappointment with having to wait for the upcoming fight between Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plessis to determine the next middleweight title contender. This delay has clearly taken a toll on his patience and mental state after his title loss to Du-Plessis, that Sean stated was a bad call from the judges and having already beaten Adesanya for the title. What's Next for Strickland? With his apology to Goggins, Strickland has shown a willingness to bury the hatchet, at least for now. Whether this will lead to any further interactions or even a potential collaboration between the two remains to be seen. For now, Strickland's primary focus will likely remain on his UFC career and his quest for a title shot. The combat sports world will undoubtedly keep a close eye on Strickland as he navigates his way through this turbulent period. One thing is certain: Sean Strickland knows how to keep himself in the headlines, whether through his performances in the octagon or his antics outside of it. Stay tuned to Fight.TV for all the latest updates on this developing story and more insights into the dynamic world of combat sports.

The Rich History of Sambo: From Soviet Roots to Global Recognition Sambo, an acronym for "SAMozashchita Bez Oruzhiya" which translates to "self-defense without weapons," is a martial art and combat sport that originated in the Soviet Union in the early 20th century. It combines the best techniques from traditional Russian martial arts with those from judo, jujitsu, and various other wrestling styles. The history of Sambo is not just a tale of sport but a fascinating journey through cultural exchange, political influence, and the relentless pursuit of martial excellence. Origins in the Soviet Union The inception of Sambo can be traced back to the 1920s and 1930s when the Soviet Union sought to develop a martial art that could improve the hand-to-hand combat skills of its soldiers. Two key figures in the development of Sambo were Viktor Spiridonov and Vasili Oshchepkov. Viktor Spiridonov: A veteran of World War I, Spiridonov was one of the pioneers of Sambo. His approach to the martial art was influenced by his experiences and injuries from the war, leading him to develop a system that emphasized efficiency and practicality. Spiridonov's version of Sambo was more focused on self-defense and less on competition. Vasili Oshchepkov: A judo black belt who studied under Jigoro Kano in Japan, Oshchepkov brought a wealth of knowledge from judo to the Soviet Union. His influence led to the incorporation of many judo techniques into Sambo, and he played a crucial role in formalizing the sport. Unfortunately, Oshchepkov's contributions were cut short by the political purges of the 1930s, during which he was executed. Evolution and Formalization After Oshchepkov's death, Spiridonov and his students continued to develop Sambo, blending techniques from various martial arts, including wrestling styles from different Soviet republics. In 1938, Sambo was officially recognized as a sport by the Soviet Sports Committee, marking a significant milestone in its development. The formalization of Sambo included the establishment of rules and regulations for competitions. Unlike many other martial arts, Sambo's competitive aspect was designed to be highly practical, reflecting its roots in real-world combat scenarios. This practicality made Sambo popular not only among soldiers but also among civilians looking for effective self-defense techniques. Sambo in the Soviet Military and Beyond During World War II, Sambo became an integral part of the Soviet military training program. Soldiers were taught Sambo techniques to improve their hand-to-hand combat skills, which proved invaluable in close-quarters combat situations. The effectiveness of Sambo in the military context further solidified its reputation as a premier martial art. After the war, Sambo continued to evolve and gain popularity. The establishment of the Soviet Union's dominance in various international sports arenas also helped to spread the knowledge and practice of Sambo beyond Soviet borders. In 1968, the first international Sambo competition was held, and in 1972, the International Sambo Federation (FIAS) was founded to govern the sport worldwide. Global Expansion and Modern Developments In the decades following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Sambo continued to grow in popularity around the world. Countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas embraced the sport, and it began to gain recognition as a legitimate martial art on the global stage. One of the key moments in Sambo's international expansion was its inclusion in the World Combat Games and the World Martial Arts Masterships. These events helped to showcase Sambo's unique blend of grappling, throws, and submissions to a broader audience, increasing its appeal among martial arts enthusiasts. Sambo's Influence on Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) Sambo has also made a significant impact on the world of mixed martial arts (MMA). Many successful MMA fighters, particularly from Russia and former Soviet republics, have a background in Sambo. Fighters like Fedor Emelianenko, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Oleg Taktarov have demonstrated the effectiveness of Sambo techniques in the octagon, helping to raise the sport's profile globally. The emphasis on real-world applicability and versatility makes Sambo a valuable skill set for MMA fighters. The sport's combination of striking, grappling, and submissions provides a comprehensive foundation that can be adapted to various combat situations. Conclusion From its humble beginnings in the Soviet Union to its current status as a respected martial art and combat sport worldwide, Sambo has a rich and dynamic history. Its development was shaped by a diverse range of influences, and its practical approach to self-defense and combat has made it a favorite among martial artists and fighters. As Sambo continues to evolve and gain recognition, it remains a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of its founders. The legacy of Spiridonov, Oshchepkov, and the countless practitioners who have contributed to the art over the years lives on in every throw, submission, and victory achieved on the mat. Whether you're a seasoned martial artist or a newcomer to combat sports, the history and techniques of Sambo offer valuable insights and skills that are both timeless and ever-relevant. Fight.TV is here for it!

Mike Perry Calls Out Jake Paul for Dodging Bareknuckle Fight Ahead of Their July 20th Boxing Bout As the highly anticipated boxing bout between Mike Perry and Jake Paul approaches on July 20th, tensions are escalating. Known for his fierce fighting style and unfiltered personality, Mike Perry has publicly challenged Jake Paul to a bareknuckle fight, raising questions about Paul's willingness to face the raw brutality of combat without the protection of gloves. In a recent interview with MMA Fighting, Perry didn't hold back his criticism of Paul. “One thing I want to remind Jake over and over again is that he wouldn’t do a bare-knuckle fight,” Perry declared. “Whether he says he would or not, especially after this fight in 10-ounce gloves. He wants to bring it up like ‘boxing is this incredible sport and these hooligans are out there doing this bare-knuckle stuff.’ I’m going to beat him with 10-ounce gloves on. He definitely won’t want to do bare-knuckle after that.” Perry's remarks highlight a significant difference in their combat sports backgrounds. While Paul has made a name for himself in the world of celebrity boxing, Perry has carved out his reputation in the brutal and unforgiving arena of bare-knuckle boxing. His willingness to engage in bare-knuckle bouts showcases a level of toughness and a no holds barred attitude that many believe Paul lacks. The fight on July 20th will be contested under professional boxing rules, with both fighters wearing 10-ounce gloves. This, according to Perry, is a significant factor in Paul's favor. The gloves provide a level of protection that isn't available in bare-knuckle fights, which are notorious for their higher risk of cuts, bruises, and broken bones. Perry’s taunts are more than just pre-fight trash talk; they serve as a psychological tactic aimed at getting under Paul’s skin. By questioning Paul’s courage and authenticity as a fighter, Perry is attempting to unsettle him and gain a mental edge before they step into the ring. Jake Paul, for his part, has remained relatively silent on the bareknuckle challenge, focusing instead on his preparation for the boxing match. Known for his bravado and ability to sell fights, Paul has yet to directly address Perry’s taunts. However, his track record shows that he is not one to back down from a verbal sparring match, and it’s only a matter of time before he responds. This showdown is more than just a clash of styles; it’s a battle for respect and legitimacy in the fight world. For Perry, it’s an opportunity to prove that his skills and toughness transcend the boundaries of different combat sports. For Paul, it’s a chance to silence a critic and continue his rise in the world of professional boxing. As the fight date draws near, the anticipation is building, and the world is watching to see if Perry’s words will come true or if Jake Paul will once again defy his critics. One thing is certain: come July 20th, the gloves will be on, but the animosity between these two fighters will be anything but padded. Fight.TV is here for it!

Alex Pereira Supports Israel Adesanya Ahead of UFC 305 Bout In an unexpected show of sportsmanship, Alex Pereira has voiced his support for Israel Adesanya ahead of Adesanya’s UFC 305 Middleweight title fight against Dricus Du Plessis. This comes despite their storied rivalry and Adesanya's previous comments about Pereira’s bout against Jiri Prochazka. During a recent interview, Pereira made his stance clear: “They asked me about Adesanya and Du Plessis, I said I don’t see Adesanya losing. Just because he said that about me doesn’t mean I’ll say it back.” These words reflect a mature perspective, especially considering the competitive nature of their relationship. Adesanya had previously expressed his desire to see Pereira lose to Prochazka, but Pereira took the high rode. “I’m here, supporting him, I already fought him, not going to say he should lose. I’m not mad at him, no grudges. Like I said if one day it’s possible to train with him,” Pereira continued. His comments highlight a deeper understanding of the sport and a respect for Adesanya as a fellow athlete. Pereira’s willingness to support Adesanya, despite the personal history and Adesanya’s earlier statements, speaks volumes about his character. Pereira also addressed the nature of Adesanya’s public persona. “He’s this, he’s bad” and what not. The people who truly know him that I had contact with, talk good about him. Has a good heart, a lot of the times it’s just marketing. I believe that, I can see he is a good person.” This insight sheds light on the often misunderstood personalities of fighters, who are sometimes judged solely based on their public personas and in-cage bravado. Pereira concluded his interview with a powerful statement of support: “So that’s why I’m here, cheering for him. If he doesn’t cheer for me, that’s not my problem. But I’m here, cheering for him.” His words are a reminder of the respect that exists within the fighting community, even among fierce rivals. As UFC 305 approaches, the dynamic between Pereira and Adesanya adds an intriguing layer to the anticipation. Fans will undoubtedly be watching not only to see the outcome of the fight but also to witness the ongoing evolution of these two remarkable fighters and their complex relationship. Whether Adesanya acknowledges Pereira’s support or not, the gesture itself is a testament to the sportsmanship and respect that underpins the world of mixed martial arts. Fight.TV is here for it!

In a highly anticipated middleweight clash at UFC Denver, Abdul Razak Alhassan and Cody Brundage's bout came to an abrupt halt just 37 seconds into the first round, resulting in a no-contest due to illegal strikes. From the opening bell, both fighters showcased their aggressive styles. Alhassan immediately countered Brundage's takedown attempt with a flurry of punches and elbows, putting his opponent on the defensive. Despite the onslaught, Brundage managed to latch onto Alhassan's leg, seeking a potential takedown. However, as Alhassan continued his assault, referee Dan Miragliotta issued warnings for illegal shots to the back of Brundage's head. Unfazed, Alhassan persisted, leading Miragliotta to intervene and halt the action. Brundage, dazed and seemingly unaware of the severity of the situation, was informed by the referee that he had taken several illegal blows. Despite efforts to recover, it was evident that Brundage was still feeling the effects of the strikes. Ringside physicians quickly assessed his condition and deemed him unfit to continue, prompting the official decision to wave off the fight. The final ruling by Miragliotta was a no-contest, citing "accidental blows to the head." This outcome was a disappointing end to what promised to be an electrifying bout between two renowned finishers in the division. Both Alhassan and Brundage left the octagon without the coveted win bonus, their records now marked by a no-contest. This incident underscores the fine line fighters walk between aggressive tactics and illegal maneuvers, highlighting the crucial role referees and medical staff play in ensuring fighter safety. While fans were left wanting more, the controversy surrounding this bout will undoubtedly keep the conversation alive until their next appearance in the octagon.

Jean Silva seized his short-notice opportunity at UFC Denver with a remarkable performance, securing a TKO victory after inflicting a horrific cut over Drew Dober’s eye. The gash, which worsened with each of Silva's precise strikes, became the defining moment of the bout. Silva opened the cut with a sharp elbow in the second round, drawing comparisons to scenes from "Terrifier 2" due to its severity. Despite the severity of the wound, the ringside physician allowed the fight to continue into the third round. However, another powerful elbow from Silva made the cut untenable, forcing the doctor to call a halt to the fight at 1:28 of the third round. “We’re by one of the greatest champions in history — Dominick Cruz said I’m a different guy,” Silva exclaimed, acknowledging Cruz's presence at the commentary table. “I am different. The elbows, those hands, everything, we planned, we trained this. I really want to thank Drew Dober. Thank you, Drew Dober.” Before the stoppage, both fighters engaged in a fierce battle, landing heavy shots that would have overwhelmed many lightweights. Dober demonstrated incredible toughness, absorbing Silva’s lightning-quick strikes and responding with his own powerful combinations whenever he managed to close the distance. Silva’s standout moment came late in the second round with a spinning back elbow that left Dober wobbling. The bell rang, giving Dober a brief respite, but Silva resumed his aggressive assault in the third round. Another vicious elbow from Silva transformed the cut into a gaping wound, leading to the inevitable doctor stoppage. “I got these Neanderthal eyebrows. They cut open very easily,” Dober remarked post-fight. “This is what I mean being a warrior. I will fight anybody. This is what fighting’s all about. We throw hands and we make war.” Despite the loss, Dober received a warm ovation from his hometown crowd in Denver, who also acknowledged Silva's impressive performance. Silva’s victory was even more remarkable given that he stepped in on short notice, having just knocked out Charles Jourdain at UFC 303 two weeks prior. With this win, Silva improved his record to 14-2 and maintained a perfect 3-0 streak in the UFC.

Rose Namajunas has firmly established herself as a formidable force in the flyweight division with a commanding performance against Tracy Cortez at UFC Denver. The former strawweight champion showcased her striking and grappling prowess, securing a unanimous decision victory and solidifying her climb up the flyweight rankings. Namajunas set the tone early in the fight, dropping Cortez to the canvas in the opening round with a precise combination of punches. Despite not securing the finish, Namajunas controlled the pace and demonstrated versatility throughout the bout. The judges scored the fight 49-46, 49-46, and 48-47 in her favor. "I knew she was going to be really tough," Namajunas said about Cortez. "I think I should have maybe just let her up [after the knockdown], but she was good at getting her guard. I knew her wrestling was really good. I was hesitant to wrestle too much, but I just kept feeling successful there. I just kept going to it." Namajunas’ speed and precision were evident from the start, as she repeatedly landed straight punches on Cortez, who struggled with head movement. A stiff jab followed by a hook put Cortez on the ground early in the fight, but Namajunas opted to return to her feet when a finish seemed unlikely. In the second round, Cortez found her rhythm and attempted a takedown, but Namajunas quickly regained her footing. Despite a slight dip in striking effectiveness, Namajunas connected with better combinations and executed a slick takedown, further asserting her dominance. Namajunas continued to leverage her grappling skills, maintaining control and advancing positions, though she couldn’t secure a submission. Her dominance in the grappling exchanges left Cortez with few opportunities to mount a significant offense. As the fight progressed into the final rounds, Namajunas alternated between long-distance strikes and takedown threats, keeping Cortez off balance. Cortez’s efforts to rally fell short as Namajunas’ footwork and defense carried her to the final horn. With this victory, Namajunas has now won two straight main event bouts at flyweight, proving her adaptability and strength in a new division. Eager for more success, Namajunas has her eyes set on another title, possibly even advocating for a new belt within the UFC. “Give me the belt, I want it,” Namajunas declared. “Maybe a women’s ‘BMF,’ I don’t know.”