Former world champion welterweight Kell Brook has opened up about his long-standing rivalry with Amir Khan, claiming that Khan "100 percent ducked" fighting him due to the pressure of facing a domestic rival. Speaking to William Hill's Simon Jordan, Brook expressed his frustration with the situation, stating, "When people say that I hate Amir Khan, I just hated the fact that he was bugging me wherever I went. People always brought it up asking when we were going to fight – I was sick of it. I think he 100 percent ducked the fight with me." Brook emphasized the difference in pressure between facing international opponents like Canelo Alvarez or Manny Pacquiao and fighting a domestic rival like himself. "It’s hard to deal with, and I don’t think he was scared of me; I think he was scared of that," Brook added. The Sheffield fighter also discussed his perception of how promoter Frank Warren treated him compared to Khan. "With the Olympics and how Frank Warren put him on a pedestal, I used to be on these same shows and I’d be at the bottom of the bill. He’s always had that push more than me, and he’s had the easy road, while I’ve had to do it the hard way, the proper way," Brook explained. Reflecting on his victory over Khan in 2022, Brook revealed the significance of the fight in his career. "I’d never trained for a fight like I did for that one, because I knew I’d boxed all these world champions but I will be remembered for my fight with Khan," he said. Despite their rivalry, Brook expressed respect for Khan and downplayed the controversy surrounding Khan's positive drug test after their bout. "I’ve got respect for Amir Khan, and I truly think that in his heart he didn’t know he had [PED’s] in his system," Brook stated.

Jaime Munguia delivered an impressive performance on Saturday night, making a strong case for a future showdown with boxing superstar Canelo Alvarez. Munguia dominated the 12-round super middleweight bout against John Ryder at Footprint Center in Phoenix, dropping Ryder four times before securing a ninth-round knockout victory. Ryder, known for his durability, had previously gone the distance with Alvarez in a 12-round unanimous decision defeat last May. However, Munguia's relentless assault proved too much for Ryder to handle, with the British southpaw unable to withstand Munguia's powerful punches. The fight reached its conclusion at 1:25 of the ninth round when referee Wes Melton stopped the action after Ryder's fourth knockdown, a decision supported by Ryder's trainer, Tony Sims. Munguia's victory has positioned him as a potential challenger for Alvarez's IBF, WBA, WBC, and WBO 168-pound titles on May 4. Speaking after the fight, Munguia expressed his eagerness for a showdown with Alvarez, highlighting the significance of such a matchup for Mexican boxing. Munguia, who remains undefeated with a record of 43-0 and 34 knockouts, credited his improved timing and performance to his collaboration with renowned trainer Freddie Roach. Ryder, on the other hand, suffered his first stoppage defeat since 2015 and may be considering retirement following his back-to-back losses. Despite showing resilience at times during the bout, Ryder was unable to withstand Munguia's relentless attacks, ultimately succumbing to the younger fighter's power. Munguia's victory has undoubtedly raised his profile in the super middleweight division, setting the stage for a potential blockbuster showdown with Alvarez in the near future.

In the world of combat sports, age is often viewed as a hindrance, but for the 46-year-old Yoel Romero, it's a source of strength and experience. As he gears up for his return at the upcoming PFL vs. Bellator card on February 24th, Romero downplays concerns about his age, emphasizing that his performances have been nothing short of impressive. Romero, also known as the 'Soldier of God,' has been absent from the cage since he clashed with Vadim Nemkov at Bellator 297 in June. Despite facing a setback in his title bout against Israel Adesanya in 2020, Romero secured his place in the upcoming event with dominant knockout victories over Melvin Manhoef and Alex Polizzi. Addressing questions about his age at the PFL vs. Bellator press conference, Romero dismissed any concerns, stating, “My performances in the cage have been good [despite my age].” He sees his years as a fighter as an advantage, a repository of knowledge and experience that sets him apart in the octagon. Looking ahead to his bout against former UFC title challenger Thiago Santos, Romero expressed admiration for Santos' previous performances, anticipating an exciting clash. Despite coming off a decision loss to Nemkov, Romero remains confident, emphasizing the positive experiences and growth he gains with each fight. “It was a great fight between Santos and Jon Jones. I thought Santos looked great in the fight, and that’s what I am expecting come next month,” Romero commented during the press conference. As the PFL vs. Bellator event approaches, the focus on Romero's age takes a back seat to the anticipation of a thrilling matchup. The cross-promoted card promises other exciting bouts, including Ryan Bader vs. Renan Ferreira and Jason Jackson vs. Ray Cooper III. Romero's perspective on age challenges the conventional narrative, inviting fans to witness firsthand whether his seasoned skills can outshine the potential concerns associated with being a 46-year-old fighter.

In the dynamic world of MMA, Murad Ramazanov is emerging as a significant force, making waves with his transition from ONE Championship to the PFL. The Dagestan-born fighter's journey is marked by mentorship from none other than Khabib Nurmagomedov, a connection that has played a pivotal role in shaping his career. Ramazanov's roots in Makhachkala, Dagestan, echo the wrestling heritage of MMA legends like Khabib Nurmagomedov and Islam Makhachev. His introduction to mixed martial arts began as a means of self-defense, attending classes to equip himself with practical skills. Little did he know that this decision would lead him to the renowned Nurmagomedov training room, a testament to his dedication and growing skill set. “I started attending extra classes and working on my chokes. The only chokes I remember I could do was playing video games. That was the only one, and what’s the use in that? Then I started applying it to real life,” Ramazanov shared in a recent interview with MMA Junkie. Under the mentorship of Khabib and the legendary training environment, Ramazanov honed his skills, with a particular focus on optimizing his concentration. Reflecting on this experience, he acknowledged the motivation gained from training alongside one of the best in the sport: "It was a perfect opportunity to learn as much as I can and improve myself. I was learning from that and getting a lot of motivation. These guys helped me become who I am." Fast forward over a decade, and Ramazanov established himself as a top talent in ONE Championship's middleweight division. Despite notable victories, he sought new challenges, leading him to sign with PFL in the pursuit of greater opportunities and competition. “I just feel like I can expand here and grow and have better opportunities, better opponents. Yeah, I’m going to put all of my efforts now in training and show and prove I’m the best in PFL,” expressed Ramazanov. While details of his PFL debut are pending, Ramazanov hinted at competing in the welterweight division. Emphasizing his wrestling prowess, he also highlighted his evolving striking skills and the element of surprise he plans to bring to his opponents. As Murad Ramazanov embarks on this new chapter in the PFL, his journey from the Nurmagomedov training room to the spotlight promises an exciting narrative for MMA enthusiasts.

Vince McMahon, the iconic figure in the world of professional wrestling, has resigned from his executive chairman position at TKO Group Holdings. This decision comes on the heels of a lawsuit filed by former WWE employee Janel Grant, accusing McMahon of sexual abuse, assault, and sex trafficking. The fallout has sent ripples through the TKO organization, prompting McMahon to step away from his leadership role. Nick Khan, WWE president, delivered the news to employees in an email, stating, "I wanted to inform you that Vince McMahon has tendered his resignation from his positions as TKO Executive Chairman and on the TKO Board of Directors. He will no longer have a role with TKO Group Holdings or WWE." McMahon, who vehemently denies the allegations, expressed his commitment to defending himself against what he called "baseless accusations" in a separate statement. Despite maintaining his innocence, he decided to resign from his executive chairmanship and the TKO board of directors, effective immediately, out of respect for the WWE Universe and TKO stakeholders. "I stand by my prior statement that Ms. Grant’s lawsuit is replete with lies, obscene made-up instances that never occurred, and is a vindictive distortion of the truth," McMahon asserted. "I intend to vigorously defend myself against these baseless accusations, and look forward to clearing my name." The abrupt exit marks the end of McMahon's tenure at TKO, a conglomerate formed less than a year ago through the merger of WWE and UFC under Endeavor. The move comes as a surprise, as McMahon was not forced out by TKO but chose to resign swiftly after the lawsuit surfaced. This departure mirrors McMahon's previous exit from WWE in 2022, following allegations of hush money payments amidst a sexual misconduct investigation. Despite a short-lived retirement, he returned six months later, inserting himself back into the business until the eventual sale of WWE to Endeavor. The void left by McMahon at TKO raises questions about the company's future direction. Endeavor CEO Ari Emanuel, who oversees TKO, asserted in the past that McMahon was an invaluable member of the team. However, the recent controversies seem to have brought an unexpected end to this partnership. As the TKO Group Holdings navigates through this unexpected shakeup, the wrestling and entertainment world watches closely to see how the company will redefine itself in the aftermath of Vince McMahon's resignation. Keywords for SEO: Vince McMahon, TKO Group Holdings, Step down, Controversy

Eddie Bravo has revealed that the inaugural edition of the 2024 Combat Jiu-Jitsu World Championship is set to take place on March 24th. This highly anticipated event will be hosted in Mexico City, marking the first time the championship has ventured into this territory. The competition, which will focus on the featherweight division, promises to be an electrifying spectacle for fans of the sport. As always, the tournament will be broadcast live on UFC Fight Pass, providing global audiences with front-row access to the intense battles on the mat. In a surprising move, organizers have announced that entry to the event will be free for spectators, a gesture that is sure to draw a sizable crowd eager to witness the world's top grapplers in action. Among the anticipated participants are combat sports veterans and rising stars, adding to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the championship. One of the key storylines to watch will be the potential return of 2021 champion Keith Krikorian, who will be under scrutiny as fans await news of his participation in defending his title. Another notable contender is Damien Anderson, a teammate of Olivarez, whose inclusion adds further intrigue to the already competitive field. Joining the ranks are David Weintraub and Gabriel Austin Daffron, both of whom showcased their skills in the bantamweight division last year. Weintraub reached the quarter-finals, while Daffron made an impressive run to the semi-finals before bowing out to Schneider. Their presence in the upcoming championship sets the stage for potential rematches and thrilling encounters. Eddie Bravo shared the exciting news of the championship's confirmation via his official Instagram account, signaling the beginning of what promises to be a thrilling chapter in the world of Combat Jiu-Jitsu. Follow FIGHT.TV for more interesting article like this.

Shinawatra Paetongtarn, the deputy chairman of Thailand's National Soft Power Strategy Committee, is leading efforts to elevate Muay Thai to Olympic status. Paetongtarn has outlined a comprehensive strategy to bolster Muay Thai's global prominence, aiming to position it as a key element of Thailand's soft power arsenal. Central to this strategy is the ambition to see Muay Thai included in the Olympic Games, envisioning a future where Thai athletes compete on the world stage. In addition to Olympic aspirations, Paetongtarn's plans include initiatives to enhance Muay Thai's appeal to international audiences. One such initiative involves introducing a ranking system akin to Taekwondo's belt ranking system, aimed at increasing the sport's accessibility and appeal. She also emphasized the importance of professional development for Muay Thai instructors and the promotion of Muay Thai competitions across all levels. Srivikorn Pimol, Advisor to the Prime Minister and Chairman of the Sports Sub-Committee of the National Soft Power Strategy Committee, highlighted the government's commitment to promoting Muay Thai as a soft power asset. Pimol recently met with Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt to discuss plans to deploy Muay Thai instructors to schools in Bangkok, a move aimed at fostering grassroots interest in the sport. Furthering their international outreach, the committee is exploring the possibility of organizing a prestigious Muay Thai master class in England. This initiative aims to provide foreigners with the opportunity to learn from renowned Muay Thai masters, including Rodtang Jitmuangnon, Buakaw Banchamek, and Superbon Singha Mawynn, in a full-day event scheduled for April.

UFC commentator Jon Anik's recent remarks about growing tired of the negativity in the MMA community have sparked a reaction from former UFC middleweight champion Sean Strickland. Anik, who expressed frustration with the criticism and disrespect from some MMA fans, hinted at a possible career change due to the toxic atmosphere. In response to Anik's comments, Strickland took to social media to offer his perspective. He criticized Anik for referring to MMA fans as the "lowest common denominator" and suggested that Anik might be better suited for a career in the NFL if he finds the MMA fan base challenging to deal with. Strickland also addressed the controversy surrounding his recent fight with Dricus Du Plessis, claiming that he was the victim of a robbery in their previous bout. He expressed his desire for a rematch with Du Plessis and voiced his discontent with the outcome of their fight, which took place earlier this month in Toronto. While Anik's remarks have garnered support from some fans and fighters, Strickland's response reflects a different perspective on the issue.

UFC fighter Tony Ferguson has disclosed that he entered his UFC 296 bout against Paddy Pimblett with a torn MCL in his knee. Ferguson took to social media to announce that he had undergone surgery to repair the injury, which he had sustained just before Thanksgiving in November. Despite the injury, Ferguson chose to proceed with the fight, where he suffered a one-sided loss to Pimblett. Following his defeat, Ferguson underwent elbow surgery before successfully repairing his torn MCL. In a social media post, Ferguson revealed the timeline of his injury, stating that he had kept it private until after the fight, training as if nothing had happened. He underwent surgery for both his elbow and knee, aiming to recover and return to fighting shape. While the decision to fight with a torn MCL remains unclear, Ferguson is optimistic about his recovery and return to the Octagon. Currently focused on rehabilitating his elbow and knee, Ferguson aims to bounce back from his recent losing streak. With a professional record of 25-10, Ferguson is determined to regain his winning form after a series of setbacks.

After a tough loss to Gervonta Davis in 2023, Ryan Garcia is still seeking a defining fight in the 140-pound division. Despite being without a belt, the 25-year-old boxer believes his star power soared after the pay-per-view (PPV) bout, which reportedly garnered over one million buys. Despite initial progress in talks, Romero surprised Garcia by pulling out of their potential bout and signing a contract to face Isaac Cruz on March 30th. With his plans derailed, Garcia is now back to square one, exploring options for his next fight. One potential contender could be Tevin Farmer, a seasoned boxer who has expressed interest in stepping up to face Garcia. Farmer, a former 130-pound champion, is eager for a chance to compete at the higher weight class and believes he can offer Garcia a significant challenge. In a recent interview w, Farmer expressed his readiness to move up two weight classes to take on Garcia. He emphasized his frustration with the lack of compelling opponents for Garcia and sees himself as a necessary challenge for the young boxer. “I been seeing Ryan Garcia lately looking for opponents and they haven't been coming through,” Farmer said during a recent virtual interview. “Rolly fell through, he already fought Gervonta. Teofimo, Devin Haney, none of them are available. I’ll move up two weight classes. I want that work.” With Garcia still searching for a high-profile opponent, Farmer sees an opportunity to make his mark in the super lightweight division and is willing to seize it. the boxing world awaits Garcia's next move, the question remains: who will be the next contender to step into the ring with him?

As the highly anticipated fight between Jaime Munguia and John Ryder approaches, Oscar De La Hoya, also known as "The Golden Boy," has shared his thoughts on the upcoming bout. De La Hoya considers Ryder to be a formidable opponent, describing him as "a live dog" in the upcoming clash scheduled for Saturday night in Phoenix. Despite acknowledging Ryder's skill and experience, De La Hoya believes that Munguia is prepared to take on top-tier opponents like Canelo Alvarez or David Benavidez later this year. Munguia, coming off a victory against Sergiy Derevyanchenko in his last fight, is seen by De La Hoya as ready for bigger challenges in the super middleweight division. Munguia's victory against Derevyanchenko was hard-fought, with the Ukrainian boxer moving up from middleweight to meet the super middleweight limit. In contrast, Ryder has been competing in the super middleweight division for the past seven years and has faced tough opponents like Alvarez. De La Hoya expressed confidence in Munguia's abilities, stating that a win against Ryder would elevate him to championship level and position him for future high-profile fights. He emphasized the significance of securing big-name matchups in the 168-pound division, hinting at potential clashes with the likes of Canelo Alvarez and David Benavidez. The fight between Munguia and Ryder is set to take place at the Footprint Center in Arizona, with DAZN streaming the event as the main attraction of a five-fight broadcast.

The well-known social media boxing phenom Ryan Garcia revealed on social media today how shocked and disappointed he was to find that WBA light welterweight champion Rolando "Rolly" Romero will be facing Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz for the championship. Garcia was surprised by the fight, which was slated for March 30th on Amazon Prime PPV in Las Vegas. He had assumed that he would be Rolly's next opponent. Pitbull Cruz (25-2-1, 17 KOs) is a lightweight contender, and Rolly (15-1, 13 KOs) and his staff chose him for what may be Rolly's first and last defence of his WBA 140-pound title. Due to this choice, Garcia—who has an amazing 11 million Instagram followers—had to reconsider his future course of action in the boxing scene. "Hey, I was told the deal was done and will be made public in the next few days." That was obviously a lie, Ryan Garcia stated, looking visibly irritated. Notwithstanding the loss, Garcia is still dedicated to his profession and excited to announce his upcoming bout, which he promises will be a major DAZN Boxing event. For Garcia, not getting into a brawl with Rolly might turn out to be a lucky break. A fight with Rolly, according to critics, would validate rumours that Garcia is avoiding genuine challengers in the 140-pound class. Garcia now has the chance to show his mettle against stronger opponents, including as former WBC and WBO champion Jose Ramirez, IBF light welterweight champion Subriel Matias, or other strong competitors in the division. Ryan Garcia believes that the only way to move ahead is to overcome the stigma of being a "fake social media fighter" and show bravery and talent while facing elite opponents. He may reinvent his image and become a legitimate contender in the boxing world with a victory against a fearsome and well-respected opponent like Subriel Matias. In boxing, Ryan Garcia's path is still one of the most avidly followed. What he does from here on out will decide whether he becomes a social media sensation or a feared and respected boxer. How does Ryan Garcia respond to Rolly Romero's bout with Isaac Cruz? Who should Garcia face next, in your opinion? Please express your thoughts and forecasts on his future in the sport.