ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut 2 featured standout performances from grapplers Mikey Musumeci and Kade Ruotolo, each securing impressive submission victories. In a much-anticipated 145lb grappling rematch, Mikey Musumeci faced off against Gabriel Sousa, who had previously defeated him in 2021. Musumeci turned the tide in this bout, clinching victory with a calf slicer from a K guard inversion just minutes into the match, avenging his earlier loss. Kade Ruotolo made a spectacular MMA debut, securing a first-round submission win over Blake Cooper at 155lbs. Entering the cage in his gi and black belt, Ruotolo demonstrated his grappling prowess by starting the fight on his feet, then transitioning to a body lock and back control before finishing with a rear naked choke. These performances highlighted the grappling skill and tenacity of both Musumeci and Ruotolo, adding a thrilling dimension to ONE 167.

In a highly anticipated clash at RIZIN 47, Kleber Koike and Juan Archuleta are set to battle for the featherweight championship. This electrifying event promises to deliver top-notch MMA action, with both fighters bringing their A-game to the octagon. Fans worldwide are eager to see who will emerge as the new featherweight champion. Kleber Koike, renowned for his exceptional grappling skills, has been a dominant force in the featherweight division. With a professional record that speaks volumes about his prowess, Koike is no stranger to high-stakes fights. His journey to RIZIN 47 has been marked by impressive victories and a relentless pursuit of excellence. On the other hand, Juan Archuleta, a former Bellator champion, brings a wealth of experience and a well-rounded fighting style to the table. Known for his explosive striking and solid wrestling, Archuleta is determined to make a statement in the RIZIN ring. His preparation for this bout has been intense, as he aims to dethrone Koike and claim the featherweight title. In a recent interview, Koike expressed his confidence and determination. He stated, "I have trained tirelessly for this moment. Winning the featherweight championship has always been my dream, and I am ready to give it my all. Juan is a formidable opponent, but I believe in my skills and my preparation. This fight will be one for the history books." The stakes couldn't be higher as these two elite fighters prepare to face off. Both Koike and Archuleta have their eyes set on the coveted featherweight title, and the outcome of this match will undoubtedly shape the future of the division. RIZIN 47 promises to be a night of unforgettable action, with fans on the edge of their seats, eagerly awaiting the crowning of the next featherweight champion. As the fight approaches, the excitement continues to build, with predictions and speculations running rampant in the MMA community. Who will emerge victorious in this epic showdown? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: RIZIN 47 is set to deliver an unforgettable night of mixed martial arts action, with the featherweight championship hanging in the balance.

Salahdine Parnasse is staying with KSW, thrilling his fans and the Polish promotion. On Friday, KSW announced their reigning lightweight and featherweight champion has inked a new multi-fight contract, ensuring the champ-champ remains in Europe for the foreseeable future. Widely considered one of the top talents outside the major MMA promotions, many expected Parnasse to make the jump to UFC or PFL. However, KSW successfully retained their 26-year-old phenom. Contract details remain undisclosed, but the news has reverberated through the MMA community. Parnasse, a French fighter, joined KSW in 2017, compiling an impressive 10-2 record within the promotion. He claimed the KSW featherweight title in 2018, avenging his first career loss. In 2022, Parnasse won the interim lightweight title and was later promoted to undisputed champion when Marian Ziolkowski was injured just minutes before their planned title fight at KSW 83. Parnasse's ambition to make history saw him challenge Adrian Bartosinski for the welterweight title at the end of 2023, aiming to become the first three-division champion in MMA history. Despite a valiant effort, he lost via decision. Undeterred, Parnasse bounced back earlier this year with a first-round knockout of Valeriu Mircea in a lightweight title defense. His journey through KSW has been one of constant evolution and determination, and his recent contract extension suggests much more to come from the champ-champ. His presence in KSW not only boosts the promotion's profile but also sets the stage for more thrilling matchups and title defenses in the future. Fans can look forward to watching Parnasse continue his reign and potentially reach new heights within the promotion.

Former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold has publicly criticized Sean Strickland, calling him a fraud and accusing him of putting on boring fights. This animosity comes after Rockhold's recent knockout victory over Joe Schilling at Karate Combat 45 in late April, marking his first win since 2017. The 39-year-old Rockhold, who retired after a loss to Paulo Costa in 2022 following three consecutive UFC defeats, appears ready for a comeback. Earlier this week, he called out Sean Strickland for a fight. Strickland, also known as ‘Tarzan,’ recently secured a split-decision win over Paulo Costa at UFC 302. Rockhold and Strickland share a history as former training partners and were scheduled to fight at UFC 268 in November 2021. However, Rockhold withdrew due to an injury, leading to lingering bad blood between the two. In response to Rockhold’s callout, Strickland issued a scathing reply on social media. Rockhold fired back in an interview with The Schmo, labeling Strickland as a fake fighter who talks about fighting to the death but fails to engage in the cage. “I’m not a fan of him,” Rockhold said. “He just puts on the most boring fights of all time, he’s a fake, a fraud. I think he’s acting up there. I’ve heard he’s got social media managers telling him what to do and what to say. Let’s try to be a little more real, boy!” Rockhold didn’t hold back, further criticizing Strickland’s fighting style and persona. “Sean acts like he’s all ‘I’ll fight to the death!’ and then puts on this hillbilly, right-wing attitude when he’s really just a fraud. He’s not going to fight to the death. He puts it on the line for the last five seconds of every fight, walking around like a nutcracker kicking and punching like an idiot.” As tensions escalate, fans eagerly await to see if a matchup between Rockhold and Strickland will be confirmed, promising a clash fueled by deep-seated rivalry and personal disdain.

Eddie Hall, known for his incredible feats of strength and dominance in strongman competitions, once again demonstrated why he's a force to be reckoned with. Hall, who reigned as the U.K.’s Strongest Man for six consecutive years and clinched the prestigious World’s Strongest Man title in 2017, has continued to challenge himself in various arenas since retiring from strongman competitions. His ventures included a boxing match against fellow strongman Thor Bjornsson, where "The Mountain" emerged victorious by unanimous decision and training with UFC interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall. Given his eclectic pursuits, it was only a matter of time until "The Beast" stepped into the cage. On Friday, Hall made his mixed martial arts debut spectacularly, headlining the debut event for the World Freak Fight League. The event, held at King George’s Hall in Blackburn, England, featured a unique 2-on-1 matchup where Hall faced off against The Neffati Brothers. Despite the odds, Hall proved too powerful for the duo to handle. The fight started with The Neffati Brothers cautiously circling the cage, seemingly unsure of how to approach their formidable opponent. Their hesitation was palpable as they darted around, attempting to avoid Hall's grasp. However, their courage eventually led them to engage. As one of the brothers attempted a single-leg takedown, Hall showcased his immense strength and wrestling skills by lifting him off the ground and executing a pro-wrestling-style powerbomb. The maneuver resembled a child being tossed into a swimming pool, highlighting Hall's raw power and athleticism. The crowd erupted as Hall’s opponent hit the mat with a thunderous crash. Unfazed and driven, Hall then turned his attention to the standing brother. Demonstrating his refined boxing skills, Hall unleashed a picture-perfect right hook. The punch connected cleanly, turning out the lights and prompting the referee to halt the bout immediately. Eddie Hall’s transition into the world of combat sports has been nothing short of remarkable. His performance at the World Freak Fight League debut event serves as a testament to his versatility and unyielding competitive spirit. As Hall continues to explore new challenges, one thing is clear: whether it's lifting heavy weights or facing multiple opponents, "The Beast" remains a dominant force in any arena he chooses to enter.

David Benavidez is increasingly confident about a future clash with boxing superstar Saul "Canelo" Alvarez. While negotiations have stalled in the past, Benavidez believes the fight is inching closer. A Pricey Dance: Alvarez's previously astronomical asking price of $200 million seemed to derail the fight. However, Benavidez suggests a shift in Canelo's camp. "I think Canelo might end up getting his $200 million and we might be getting the fight we all want," he reveals. Focus on Opportunity, Not Payday: Benavidez emphasizes his desire for the fight regardless of the financial terms. "The money is not important for me... What's important for me is that I do my job 100 percent, and the money is going to follow," he states. He envisions a lucrative rematch following a potential victory over Canelo. Light Heavyweight Debut: While waiting for Canelo, Benavidez is set to make his light heavyweight debut on June 15th against Oleksandr Gvozdyk.  Gvozdyk is a former champion and interestingly, a sparring partner for Canelo. Weight Concerns: Canelo has previously expressed concerns about Benavidez's natural size advantage. Benavidez assures he'll return to super middleweight (168 pounds) for the fight,  but remains flexible on rehydration clauses. Ready to Fight, Open to Terms: "Whatever [the terms are], as long as it's not ridiculous," Benavidez insists. He expresses his willingness to agree to a rehydration clause but remains firm against a catchweight (a weight limit set below the division's standard). Moving Forward: Despite the uncertainty around the Canelo fight, Benavidez has plans. "I've been kind of done with 168 pounds," he admits. He sees the Gvozdyk fight as an opportunity to explore the light heavyweight division and potentially pursue titles in multiple weight classes. The Show Must Go On: While a Canelo fight remains the ultimate goal, Benavidez is determined to move forward with his career, with or without the Mexican superstar in the ring.

The official weigh-ins for UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Imavov took place on Friday at the UFC host hotel in Louisville. The fighters stepped on the scales ahead of an exciting night of bouts scheduled for Saturday. Headlining the event, former middleweight title challenger Jared Cannonier (17-6) faces off against Nassourdine Imavov (13-4) in what promises to be an explosive main event. Cannonier, known for his power and resilience, weighed in at 185 pounds. Imavov, looking to make a statement in the division, matched him at the same weight. In the co-feature, Dustin Jacoby (19-8-1) will take on former light heavyweight title challenger Dominick Reyes (12-4). Jacoby weighed in at 204.5 pounds, while Reyes, aiming to bounce back from recent setbacks, came in at 205 pounds. The full weigh-in results for the main card are as follows: MAIN CARD: Jared Cannonier (185) vs. Nassourdine Imavov (185) The main event sees two top-tier middleweights clash. Cannonier, a powerhouse with knockout ability, aims to cement his status as a title contender. Imavov, with his well-rounded skills, looks to climb the rankings with a significant win. Dustin Jacoby (204.5) vs. Dominick Reyes (205) In the light heavyweight co-main event, Jacoby, a former kickboxer, faces Reyes, who is determined to regain his momentum. Both fighters are eager to prove themselves and make a push for title contention. Raul Rosas Jr. (136) vs. Ricky Turcios (136) This bantamweight bout features two young and hungry fighters. Rosas Jr., with a strong grappling background, squares off against Turcios, known for his relentless pace and striking. Brunno Ferreira (186) vs. Dustin Stoltzfus (184.5) Middleweights Ferreira and Stoltzfus will lock horns in what should be a competitive match. Ferreira's aggression meets Stoltzfus's technical prowess in a clash of styles. Julian Marquez (185.5) vs. Zach Reese (185) Marquez, with his exciting fighting style, takes on Reese, a promising talent in the division. Both fighters are looking to make a statement and move up the rankings. Miguel Baeza (171) vs. Puna Soriano (171) The welterweight bout features Baeza, known for his striking, against Soriano, a fighter with knockout power. Expect fireworks as both competitors look to deliver a highlight-reel finish. With all fighters making weight, UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Imavov is set to deliver an action-packed night of fights. Fans can look forward to intense battles and potential upsets as these athletes showcase their skills in the Octagon.

Boxing fans, mark your calendars! The highly anticipated bout between legendary heavyweight Mike Tyson and YouTube sensation turned professional boxer Jake Paul has been rescheduled. Originally set for July 20, the fight will now take place on November 15 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This exciting event will be streamed live on Netflix, bringing the electrifying showdown to a global audience. The match was postponed due to a medical issue that Tyson experienced, limiting his training and necessitating a change of plans. Most Valuable Promotions co-founder Nakisa Bidarian expressed gratitude to all involved for their efforts in rescheduling the event. "Our team has worked diligently with all parties involved to reschedule this monumental fight to a date that ensures both Jake Paul and Mike Tyson are fully prepared, with equal training time, as well as allowing us to keep the event at AT&T Stadium in the midst of the Cowboys season," Bidarian said in a release. He added, "Paul vs. Tyson is the most cross-generational sporting event in history, and we are committed to providing fans worldwide with this unforgettable night of boxing, live globally on Netflix." Both fighters have confirmed the new date and are ready to bring their best to the ring. Mike Tyson, who is set to resume training soon, expressed his confidence, stating, “While we have a new date, the result will be the same no matter when we fight. Jake Paul is getting knocked out. On Friday, Nov. 15, watch this in-person at AT&T Stadium or live on Netflix.” Jake Paul has been on a winning streak since his loss to Tommy Fury in February 2023, securing three consecutive victories, including two first-round knockouts. Tyson, returning to the ring for the first time since his exhibition match against Roy Jones Jr. in 2020, is eager to make a statement. In addition to the Tyson vs. Paul fight, the event will feature a highly anticipated rematch between Katie Taylor and Amanda Serrano, adding more excitement to an already star-studded card. With the stage set and anticipation building, the rescheduled bout promises to be a historic night of boxing. Fans around the world can look forward to a thrilling contest between the seasoned veteran Tyson and the rising star Paul, as they clash in what is sure to be an unforgettable event.

In the ever-competitive world of boxing, legends often face harsh scrutiny from critics and fans alike. Recently, Deontay Wilder, one of the sport’s most formidable heavyweights, has been the subject of retirement talks after a series of tough bouts. However, Oscar De La Hoya, a boxing legend in his own right, has stepped up to defend Wilder, urging the boxing community to show the respect Wilder deserves. Deontay Wilder, known for his explosive power and 42 knockout victories, has had a remarkable career many fighters can only dream of. Despite this, some critics have suggested that it's time for the "Bronze Bomber" to hang up his gloves. De La Hoya, in a recent interview, passionately defended Wilder, stating, "Give the man his respect. He has done so much for the sport and still has a lot to offer." De La Hoya's defense of Wilder comes from a place of experience and understanding. As a former world champion across multiple weight classes, De La Hoya knows what it takes to compete at the highest levels of boxing. He recognizes Wilder’s contributions to the sport and believes the heavyweight still has the drive and potential to achieve more. Wilder’s career, marked by his fierce punching power and resilience, has seen him become a heavyweight champion and an inspirational figure. His memorable bouts, especially against Tyson Fury, have captivated audiences worldwide, proving that he is still a major draw in boxing. De La Hoya’s comments highlight that even after setbacks, a fighter’s legacy and potential should not be dismissed lightly. Furthermore, the narrative of calling for Wilder's retirement overlooks his recent performances and the fact that he remains a formidable opponent. Fighters often face ups and downs, but the call to end a career should come from the athlete, not the critics. Wilder has shown time and again that he possesses the heart of a champion, a trait that cannot be easily discarded. As fans and analysts, it’s essential to support fighters through their highs and lows, acknowledging their contributions and the excitement they bring to the sport. Wilder’s journey is far from over, and with the backing of influential figures like De La Hoya, he can continue to inspire and entertain.

Hollywood, FL - The air crackled with tension as Blair Cobbs and Adrien Broner faced off at a fiery pre-fight press conference ahead of their Friday night bout at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. Experience vs. Upset: Cobbs (16-1-1, 10 KOs), the younger and less experienced fighter, exuded unwavering confidence despite facing the decorated Broner (34-4-1, 24 KOs).  Cobbs arrived with a playful jab, bringing out a puppet he called "The Trash Can Man," mocking Broner's nickname "The Can Man" and playfully reciting his pre-fight insults. Confidence on Display: "We had a good time, he had a good run, and now it's time for his demise," Cobbs declared.  "We all know what's going to happen. It's an ass-whooping. It's ass-whooping time." Turning the Tables: Cobbs remained composed when Broner arrived, showcasing a stark contrast in energy.  When the media questioned Broner's history of holding back punches, Cobbs interjected with a hint of sarcasm. "He's going to let his hands go?" Cobbs questioned. "Has that ever happened? Is that actually a thing?" Preparing for Anything: Cobbs assured he's prepared for any version of Broner, but highlighted Broner's potentially low punch output as a vulnerability.  "In many of Broner's losses and controversial victories, his failure to hurl enough blows was a recurring theme," Cobbs noted. The Final Word: Cobbs concluded with unwavering resolve, reiterating his prediction for the fight's outcome: "Come fight night, there's nothing but an ass-whooping coming." This Friday night's showdown promises fireworks as Cobbs aims to pull off an upset against the seasoned veteran Broner.  Will Cobbs' confidence translate into victory, or can Broner silence the doubters with a dominant performance?  The boxing world watches with anticipation.

The final press conference for Nate Diaz vs. Jorge Masvidal 2 turned chaotic on Thursday, as tensions reached a boiling point. The UFC veterans are set to face off in a 10-round, 175-pound boxing match on July 6 in Anaheim, Calif., and their heated rivalry was on full display. While the earlier press conferences promoting the fight were relatively calm, the atmosphere at this event was charged. As Diaz was exiting, a brawl broke out, shocking the audience and escalating the intense rivalry between the two fighters. Diaz, usually reserved during such events, was notably aggressive this time, engaging in several fiery exchanges with Masvidal about their MMA careers, grappling skills, and their previous fight. The tension peaked when Diaz voiced his frustration with the press conference. “Not this f*cking press conference,” Diaz stated when asked about his interests. “I’m sick of sitting here, I’m sick of looking at all these motherf*ckers, I’m sick of looking at you, too! [directed at emcee Brian Campbell]. I’m sick of this whole shit. I’m done with this whole press conference shit. I’m glad we’re here to promote these great fights that are happening. That’s cool as f*ck. But besides that, I think my work here is done. I’m done doing all this shit. No more press conferences until my next fight. “F*ck this ugly motherf*cker [to Masvidal]. Man, I hate to disrespect you, but I’m sick of seeing you, too [to Campbell]. I’m out. I’m good. See everybody. Peace out.” Following this outburst, Diaz stood up to leave. Despite producers' attempts to get a final face-off, Diaz approached the front of the stage, posed briefly, and then grabbed a microphone to deliver one last jab: “Square off with yourself, motherf*cker!” As Diaz walked away, Masvidal circled the stage, and their camps continued to exchange heated words. The situation quickly escalated into a full-blown brawl. Masvidal was shoved during the chaos but eventually extricated himself from the fray. While the exact details of the altercation were unclear, it was evident that members of both fighters' teams were involved. The melee continued for some time, but security eventually restored order. Diaz and Masvidal are set to clash on July 6 at the Honda Center in Anaheim, Calif., a showdown eagerly anticipated by fight fans.

Honolulu, Hawaii - Kade Ruotolo, a 21-year-old Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) phenom, is making a much-anticipated leap into the world of mixed martial arts (MMA).  He'll debut at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II this Friday, June 7th, on Prime Video, and his excitement is palpable. Training with the Best: Just before his first MMA fight, Ruotolo honed his skills with none other than Demetrious "Mighty Mouse" Johnson, a legendary MMA champion. The two discussed Ruotolo's transition on Johnson's "Mightycast" show. A Dream Realized: Ruotolo, a reigning ONE World Champion in submission grappling, has always harbored an ambition for MMA. "We grew up watching MMA," he confessed. "It was a bucket list thing. I had to fight MMA." From Grappling Great to MMA Aspirant: With an impressive record of grappling victories and an ADCC World Championship under his belt, Ruotolo feels this is the perfect time to take on the challenges of MMA. "The urge has been growing more and more," he explained. "Honestly, I wanna get paid now! I love fighting, but jiu-jitsu feels more like a match, not a fight." Confidence and Learning Curve: Ruotolo acknowledges the steep learning curve ahead, but his grappling expertise provides a strong foundation. "Every time I train MMA, I'm learning something new," he says, embracing the challenge. "I'm not very fearful, and my coach and family are happy with the progress." The Unexpected Hurdle: Despite his extensive training, Ruotolo revealed a surprising hurdle – cardio. "The hardest thing was the cardio on my legs," he confessed, catching even "Mighty Mouse" off guard.  "The hopping is different.  Jiu-jitsu doesn't prepare you for that." Eyes on the Prize: Ruotolo's dedication to BJJ began at the tender age of 3, making him a world-class grappler. But now, he's eager to explore a new facet of combat sports.  With his unwavering determination and impressive skillset, Ruotolo's MMA debut promises to be an exciting spectacle.