Rumors about fighters making comebacks often circulate like wildfire. However, when it comes to Khabib Nurmagomedov, his coach Javier Mendez is setting the record straight and urging fans and media alike to "stop all this nonsense." Mendez, known for his association with the American Kickboxing Academy, shares a close bond with Khabib. From heartfelt pep talks during fights to reminding the undefeated Dagestani fighter of his late father's plan, Mendez has been a guiding force. Yet, recent speculations about Khabib's return have been firmly dismissed by Mendez. In a recent response to a video clip, Mendez clarified the situation, emphasizing that there have been no discussions about Khabib making a comeback. “I’m just letting you guys know that, you know, stop all this nonsense [on the internet] regarding Khabib [coming back to the UFC] and me and him training,” Mendez stated. “There’s been no such thing happening. We’re not discussing training. Khabib is still devoted to what he said [about not fighting again]. He’s devoted his time to his family. He’s not working people’s corners. He’s not gonna ever fight. To my knowledge, it has never been spoken about.” Khabib Nurmagomedov's retirement announcement after defeating Justin Gaethje in 2020 was met with a mix of surprise and admiration. The undefeated lightweight champion has repeatedly expressed his commitment to staying retired, honoring a promise made to his mother. Fighting without his father, who passed away, proved to be emotionally challenging for Khabib, leading him to prioritize family time over a return to the octagon. As Mendez makes it clear that the duo is not in discussions about a comeback, it seems fans will have to content themselves with cherishing Khabib's illustrious career rather than anticipating a return that may never happen.

In the ever-evolving narrative of MMA retirements, one name currently in the spotlight is that of Paul Felder. The retired fighter, who has been a familiar voice as a color commentator for the UFC, is now at a crossroads, contemplating a comeback after Jim Miller's callout for a potential clash at UFC 300. Having hung up his gloves in 2021, Felder delved into the realms of commentary, triathlons, and acting, maintaining an active lifestyle. However, a spark was reignited within him as he witnessed Chan Sung Jung's farewell fight in August. Intrigued by the possibility of returning to the cage, Felder re-entered the UFC’s anti-doping program in August, sparking speculation about a potential comeback. While no final decision has been made, the prospect of facing a seasoned veteran like Jim Miller has Felder leaning towards a return. In a recent interview after UFC Vegas 84, Felder expressed, "If I’m going to do it, I want it to be against a guy like Jim. Somebody that’s around my age, that’s been in the game for a long time. I’m not trying to come back and make a run for the belt or anything like that." Jim Miller, fresh off a submission win over Gabriel Benitez, strategically mentioned Felder as an ideal opponent for UFC 300. This seemingly well-laid bait has Felder contemplating a comeback, as he acknowledges the allure of a fight against a seasoned warrior like Miller. While Felder is intrigued by the idea and the potential fan excitement, he remains pragmatic about the UFC's final say in the matter. The decision-makers at the promotion hold the key to whether this matchup materializes on the historic UFC 300 card. Felder, cognizant of the challenges and rigors of MMA, acknowledges the difficulty of the decision. Despite having stayed active in various sports, he is aware that stepping back into the octagon is a whole different ball game. The physical toll, emotional strain, and the unforgiving nature of the sport are factors he is carefully considering. As Felder deliberates, the MMA community eagerly awaits news of a potential comeback or continued retirement. Whether he decides to grace the octagon once more or stay content with his current endeavors, one thing is certain – Paul Felder's legacy in and out of the cage remains intact, marked by a thoughtful and measured approach to the challenges that lie ahead.

The line between glory and adversity is razor-thin. The latest somber testament to this reality comes from the shocking news of Bellator veteran Ryan Curtis, who recently faced a devastating spine injury during a routine training session. The grim revelation surfaced through an emotional post by featherweight contender Leah McCourt, a close friend of Curtis, who disclosed that the former fighter had suffered injuries to his back, neck, and spine. McCourt took to social media to rally support, initiating a GoFundMe campaign to aid Curtis and his family in their time of need. In a heartfelt message, McCourt lamented, "Ryan will never be able to do what he loves, and fight or train in MMA again – a sport he has dedicated his life to from the age of 11." The reality of this tragedy is compounded by the fact that Curtis, a professional MMA fighter since 2015 with a 6-4 record, now faces an uncertain future after having most recently fought in April at a Cage Warriors event in Dublin. Curtis, who also competed for Brave CF and had a victorious stint in Bellator in 2019, is confronted with the harsh reality that his fighting days have come to an abrupt end. McCourt's GoFundMe page aims to alleviate the financial burden on Curtis and his family, assisting with rehabilitation, essential treatments, and recovery, and providing support during this challenging period. Even in the face of adversity, the MMA community has rallied behind Curtis, with UFC superstar Conor McGregor expressing his solidarity on Twitter. McGregor's message echoes the sentiment of support, emphasizing the importance of standing united in such trying times: As the MMA world grapples with this unfortunate turn of events, it serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life beyond the cage, showcasing the resilience of fighters who must now display their indomitable spirit outside the spotlight.

Martial arts are not only about unarmed combat. Many styles of martial arts incorporate the use of weapons, such as swords, sticks, knives, spears, and more. These weapons enhance the skills and abilities of the practitioners, as well as adding variety and excitement to the training and competition. Martial arts with weapons have a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. They reflect the culture and traditions of different regions and countries, such as Japan, China, India, Philippines, France, and others. Some of the most popular and influential weapon-based martial arts are: Arnis A Filipino martial art that uses sticks, knives, and other bladed weapons. It teaches quick and agile movements, as well as how to defend against multiple attackers. Bōjutsu A Japanese martial art that uses a long staff called a bō. It teaches how to control the distance and angle of the weapon, as well as how to strike and block effectively. Canne de combat A French martial art that uses a cane or stick. It is similar to fencing, but with a stick instead of a sword. It teaches how to aim and time the attacks and blocks, as well as how to use feints and footwork. Gatka An Indian martial art that uses swords, daggers, shields, and other weapons. It is based on the Sikh warrior tradition and teaches how to fight with courage and honor. Kendo A Japanese martial art that uses bamboo swords called shinai. It is derived from the samurai swordsmanship and teaches how to cultivate the mind and spirit, as well as how to execute precise and powerful strikes. These are just some examples of the many weapon-based martial arts that exist around the world. They offer a unique and challenging way to learn self-defense, fitness, discipline, and respect. They also provide a glimpse into the diverse and fascinating history and culture of different peoples and nations.

M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool will play host for the city's very own, Natasha Jonas, who is poised to defend her IBF welterweight title in a much-anticipated clash against American boxer Mikaela Mayer. Natasha Jonas, a formidable 39-year-old southpaw, has carved a niche for herself in the boxing world. With a record of 14-2-1, including 9 knockouts, Jonas has continually proved that age is just a number in the ring. Her journey to the IBF welterweight championship has been nothing short of remarkable, from clinching the WBC, WBO, and IBF junior middleweight titles to her recent victory where she claimed the vacant IBF welterweight belt, to become a two weight world champion. The upcoming fight against Mikaela Mayer, a skilled boxer in her own right, is not just about defending a title for her. It's about proving a point - that a happy fighter is a dangerous fighter. Mikaela Mayer is known for her aggressive style and endurance at the highest level. Her height and reach could give her an advantage in this fight, allowing her to keep Jonas at a distance if utilised correctly. Mayer's could benefit from using her jab effectively to control the pace and looking for openings to land significant strikes. Jonas's strength lies in her experience and adaptability. Having fought against top-tier opponents, she uses her southpaw stance effectively, giving her a tactical edge, often posing a tricky matchup for orthodox fighters like Mayer. Jonas’s ability to combine power with precision makes her a threat in any fight scenario, at any second of the fight. As the fight night approaches, the boxing community buzzes with predictions and speculations. But for Natasha Jonas, this fight is more than just about retaining a title. It's about cementing her legacy and inspiring a new generation of boxers, and proving that she can still, not just compete, but solidify herself at the top of the game. Her journey, marked by ups and downs, victories and challenges, stands as a beacon of inspiration in the world of sports and a win in her home city in defending the title, will prove just that. But what will happen come fight night? Start the conversation below in the comments!

Recently unsealed documents have brought to light a striking text conversation between UFC CEO Dana White and then-UFC Chairman Lorenzo Fertitta. The exchange, dating back to May 2014, revolves around negotiations for a light heavyweight title rematch between then-champion Jon Jones and Alexander Gustafsson. The rivalry between Jones and Gustafsson began with their initial encounter in September 2013, a bout that eventually earned a place in the UFC Hall of Fame's Fight Wing. Jones emerged victorious in that fight via unanimous decision. However, when the UFC sought to arrange a rematch, Jones was at odds with the promotion regarding his contract and expressed a preference for facing Daniel Cormier instead of granting Gustafsson an immediate rematch. “What’s up with Jones? Did he straighten up or is he still being a scumbag?” White texted then-UFC Chairman Fertitta in a message recently unsealed as part of the UFC antitrust lawsuit. (Reps for Jones and the UFC did not respond to a request for comment.) “Still a douche, but we’re inching closer,” Fertitta responded. “Haven’t moved on money, but sent the letter with an ultimatum.” “Awesome,” White responded. “F*** that punk, Lorenzo. He needs to know we don’t need him, or he will f*** us over more than he already does.” White and Fertitta, in response to Jones's stance, exchanged candid messages that have now come to light as part of the UFC antitrust lawsuit. In one text, White asked Fertitta about Jones's behavior, referring to him as a "scumbag." Fertitta responded, describing Jones as "still a douche" but indicated that they were making progress in negotiations despite not reaching an agreement on financial terms. White's frustration with Jones was evident in his message, expressing a strong stance against what he perceived as Jones's attempts to leverage his position. Fertitta echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the UFC's willingness to stand firm in negotiations. Ultimately, Jones secured a fight with Daniel Cormier in early 2015, achieving his desired outcome. He went on to win the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship clash against Cormier via unanimous decision. However, his rematch with Gustafsson did not occur until late 2018, where Jones emerged victorious once again, this time with a third-round knockout. The unsealed texts shed light on the behind-the-scenes negotiations and tensions within the UFC, providing a glimpse into the complexities of fighter promotions and contract negotiations within the world of mixed martial arts.

The boxing world once again turns its eyes towards Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as on March 8th, anticipation builds for an event that promises to be more than just a spectacle. Anchoring the undercard of the much-anticipated, yet controversial, Anthony Joshua vs. Francis Ngannou bout, is a fight that could determine the next challenger to a world title — Joseph Parker versus Zhilei Zhang. Joseph Parker, the New Zealander with an impressive record of 34-3, including 23 knockouts, which saw him previously become a Heavyweight Champion of the World. After facing setbacks against Anthony Joshua, Dillian Whyte, and more recently Joe Joyce, Parker's career seemed to be on a downward spiral. However, a decisive victory against Deontay Wilder in December last year has thrust him back into the limelight, the 33 year old could be set to regain his world title. On the other side of the ring stands 'Big Bang' Zhilei Zhang, the WBO interim heavyweight champion, whose record of 26-1-1, with 21 knockouts, speaks volumes about his prowess, his sole defeat a controversial loss to Filip Hrgovic, a fight many thought the Chinaman won. Zhang, known for his aggressive style and formidable strength, poses a significant threat to any opponent he faces. Joe Joyce is a name that both fighters have experienced in the ring, but both with a different tale to tell. For Parker, it was a night to forget in facing the Brit, who handed him his third career loss. Parker fought the then undefeated Joe Joyce on 24 September 2022 at the AO Arena in a fast-paced bout where both men landed power punches. Joyce was able to bloody Parker's nose and open a cut above his eye by fighting on the front foot and using his jab to set up his attacks, while Parker used the left hook and overhand right effectively. A thunderous left hook knocked Parker down in the eleventh round. Though he stood up, the referee halted the fight to declare Joyce the winner by eleventh-round knockout. The result made Joyce the first to stop Parker, who had never been knocked out. However, for Zhang, his meetings with Joyce told different stories, having stopped Joyce on both occasions of meeting in the ring, handing Joe Joyce both of his professional career defeats to this day. Styles make fights but one thing is for sure, Zhilei Zhang's power is no joke. Fight Analysis: The upcoming bout between Joseph Parker and Zhilei Zhang on March 8th in Riyadh presents an intriguing clash of styles, between the jab heavy Parker and the KO artist Zhang. This fight will not just a test of physical prowess but also a battle of wits and tactics and it is intersting to see who will come out on top. Parker's Strategy: For Joseph Parker, the key to victory lies in his mobility and boxing skill, like with his fight with Wilder, he will look to avoid the powershots and potentially smother Zhang in close exchanges. Known for his quick hands and ability to move around the ring, Parker will need to utilize his footwork to avoid Zhang's power punches. His trainer, Andy Lee, is likely to have him employ a hit-and-move strategy, making use of in-and-out attacks to score points, with the gameplan likely aiming for a points victory. This approach was effective in his fight against Deontay Wilder, where Parker showcased his ability to outmaneuver and outbox his opponent. However, Parker's strategy comes with risks. While his movement can be an asset, it also opens him up to Zhang's counterattacks, which could see the fight end in any given moment. Parker must be wary of Zhang's ability to close distance quickly and deliver powerful blows. The key for Parker will be to strike a balance between aggression and caution, ensuring he scores points while avoiding Zhang's heavy hands. Zhang's Approach: For Zhilei Zhang, the fight against Parker is an opportunity to assert his dominance in the heavyweight division and earn himself a shot at a title. Zhang's strategy will likely revolve around his strength and reach advantage that he will look to impose in this bout. He will aim to cut off the ring and force Parker into exchanges where he can utilize his power and hurt the Kiwi. Zhang's aggression, however, must be measured. Over committing or becoming too hungry to land big shots could leave him vulnerable.. Zhang will need to be patient, working behind his jab to create openings rather than rushing in. Who wins this mega clash in the Heavyweight division? What's next for the winner and what does a loss in this fight mean for them? Join the conversation in the comments below!

Artur Beterbiev is a natural phenomenon within the light-heavyweight division and world of boxing as a whole. The reigning champion of the WBC, IBF, and WBO, Beterbiev has dominated opponents rather than merely defeating them, during a career which has saw the 38 year old Canadian deliver 20 knockouts from his 20 professional fights. His recent triumph in his home nation over Callum Smith of the United Kingdom served as evidence of this dominance. Beterbiev, however, is not done here. His objective is to attain a more prestigious accolade—the undisputed light-heavyweight champion—hunting for the fourth major title, held by Dmitry Bivol, the WBA champion. Light-heavyweight Artur Beterbiev's story is one of determination and skill. Born in Russia and now fighting out of Montreal, Canada, Beterbiev has always been known for his power and skill that  saw him first claim the IBF light-heavyweight championship in 2017 with a dominant performance against Enrico Koelling, which he has successfully maintained to this day, along with the addition of WBC and WBO titles. His recent victory in over Callum Smith was a boxing masterclass. Beterbiev decisively defeated a deserving and gritty opponent which solidified his position as the ruler of the light-heavyweight division and now continues to be motivated by a one last objective: undisputed world champion. Read Callum Smith's reflection on his defeat to Artur Beterbiev Read the fight report on Beterbiev's victory over Callum Smith Rarely have boxers in any of the divisions across boxing have managed to unify all four main championship belts, more so in modern times, it seems. Beterbiev's accomplishment of this feat, should he become undisputed, would not only solidify his status as one of the sport's all-time greatest of his division, but also establish him as an icon of the sport. But one man stands in his way, the undefeated 33 year old Russian, Dmitry Bivol (22-0, 11 KO's). Boxing has had many champions and even in the world of boxing now, boasts a lot of individual champions, but very few undisputed. For Artur Beterbiev, taking Dmitry Bivol's fourth and final belt of the division, is joining boxing legends and cementing his legacy. Bivol, known for his precision and efficiency, has a unique boxing style that relies on quick footwork, sharp jabs, and ring IQ, which has seen him defeat some huge names, none no bigger than Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez. His ability to control the pace of the fight and adapt to his opponents' on the go, makes for a tasty fight should his path cross with Beterbiev. Bivol has not really achieved a legitimate knockout in the past six years; he is enough to dominate a win on points and does not actively pursue the knockout. A Bivol win by KO isn't really on the cards, with a KO percentage of around 50%, however, Bivol will attempt to outbox him and win on points, as he did in the Canelo fight, which many would argue was more difficult than Beterbiev. But, this is boxing, and styles do matter; when facing a fighter as dangerous as Beterbiev, you can't rule anything out. No one can truly say for sure what will happen when these two giants of the sport clash, but one thing can be said for sure, it will be an exciting event that will be sure to captivate the masses of boxing, both hardcore and casuals alike. Who wins this fight and how? Comment below and join the conversation!

Golden Boy Promotions CEO Oscar De La Hoya has fired back at UFC CEO Dana White's recent comments disputing the idea that MMA fighters are switching to boxing for bigger paychecks. In 2017, UFC superstar Conor McGregor made a lucrative crossover to boxing for a highly anticipated bout against Floyd Mayweather, setting a precedent for MMA fighters seeking bigger paydays. This trend continued as several other former UFC fighters, including those like Jake Paul, drew significant attention and earnings from boxing matches. Most notably, Francis Ngannou made headlines when he left his UFC heavyweight title to pursue more lucrative opportunities in boxing. In October, Ngannou secured a substantial purse in a boxing match against WBC world champion Tyson Fury. Now, on March 8, Ngannou is set for another major payday as he faces former two-time champion Anthony Joshua. De La Hoya has emphatically rejected White's claim that MMA fighters aren't earning more in boxing. "The only thing I have to say about that is I think I heard Dana White say something about, ‘These MMA fighters are not making more money in boxing.’ All I can say or do is laugh," De La Hoya said. "Like, are you kidding me? Why do you think MMA fighters are going into boxing and crossing over for the payday?" De La Hoya stressed the financial allure of boxing for MMA fighters, highlighting their willingness to test their skills and bravery in the ring against elite opponents. He dismissed White's assertion, stating, "When Dana White’s saying they’re not making more money, it’s bullsh!t. They’re making tons of money inside the ring in boxing. That’s the bottom line. That’s why you’re seeing Joshua with Ngannou. These guys are warriors."

Callum Smith is taking time to reflect on his future in boxing after a tough defeat at the hands of Artur Beterbiev, the WBC, IBF, and WBO light heavyweight champion. The seventh-round stoppage loss has left Smith considering his next steps in the sport. For Smith, the defeat to Beterbiev is proving to be a more significant challenge than his previous loss to Saul 'Canelo' Alvarez in 2020. While Smith could find solace in his performance against Alvarez due to taking the fight at short notice and dealing with an arm injury, the defeat to Beterbiev offers fewer silver linings. Expressing his disappointment, Smith admitted, “I’m disappointed. I’m used to being the best. I believed I was the best and to accept that I’m not is a hard one to take. The better man won tonight. He stopped me getting into my rhythm. He’s good at just touching, touching and he stopped me getting any momentum,” Despite the loss, Smith acknowledged Beterbiev's skills and ability to disrupt his rhythm throughout the fight. With a record of 29-2 and 21 KO's, Smith now faces a crucial decision regarding his future in the sport. At 33 years old, he must weigh his options carefully, considering whether to continue his pursuit of success in the light heavyweight division or explore other avenues. Beterbiev's anticipated fight against Dmitry Bivol for the undisputed championship at 175lbs adds another layer of complexity to Smith's decision. While he could wait to see how the title picture unfolds, Smith knows there are no shortcuts to reclaiming the top spot. I’ve always set the bar very high. I’ve always wanted to be the best. I’ve always believed I was the best and now it’s hard to take that I’m not,” he said. “I’ve got an amazing family at home. I give a lot to boxing. I think win or lose, I didn’t want to stay in boxing for a long time. I’m not making any decisions but it’s time to assess the future and see if I’ve got any goals that motivate me to go back to the gym. If not, we’ll see. Reflecting on his career and future plans, Smith emphasized his high standards and desire to be the best. He also highlighted the importance of family and the need to assess his goals and motivations in boxing before making any decisions about his future.

Vasiliy Lomachenko and George Kambosos Jr.'s highly anticipated lightweight championship bout has been confirmed for May 12 in Perth, Australia, following a deal between their respective representatives. The fight, which will be for the vacant IBF lightweight title, was announced during an ESPN+ stream of the Artur Beterbiev-Callum Smith undercard on Saturday night. The event, expected to take place at the 15,000-seat RAC Arena in Perth, will see Lomachenko (17-3, 11 KOs) and Kambosos (21-2, 10 KOs) face off in a Sunday morning and afternoon event in Australia. In the United States, the fight will be broadcast live on ESPN the night before, on May 11. Bob Arum's Top Rank Inc., which promotes Lomachenko and co-promotes Kambosos with DiBella Entertainment, is currently finalizing a site deal with the Australian government to host the event in Perth. This decision places the fight clear across the continent from Kambosos' hometown of Sydney, where his previous fights against Devin Haney took place. The undercard for the Lomachenko-Kambosos fight is expected to feature the Moloney twins, Jason and Andrew, both accomplished boxers in their own right. However, Jason Moloney's participation will depend on his recovery from a cut sustained during his recent victory over Saul Sanchez. Andrew Moloney is set to participate in a WBO 115-pound elimination match against an opponent yet to be determined. Lomachenko, a three-weight world champion and two-time Olympic gold medalist, will end nearly a one-year layoff when he faces Kambosos for the IBF belt. The 35-year-old Ukrainian's last fight was against Haney in May 2023, a closely contested bout that ended in a unanimous decision in Haney's favor. Kambosos, on the other hand, is coming off a debatable majority-decision victory over Maxi Hughes in July 2023. Ranked second by the IBF, the 30-year-old Australian will be aiming to secure the lightweight title in front of his home crowd. The matchup between Lomachenko and Kambosos is expected to be one of the most significant events in the lightweight division, with both fighters eager to claim the vacant IBF title.

Mark Hunt, a former UFC heavyweight contender with a record of 13 wins and 14 losses in mixed martial arts (MMA), recently disclosed that he was offered a substantial sum of money to intentionally lose a fight in Australia. Hunt's tenure with the UFC came to an end in 2018 following three consecutive losses in the octagon. His departure followed a legal dispute with the UFC that began in late 2017, involving allegations of racketeering, fraud, breach of contract, and other claims stemming from his no-contest ruling against Brock Lesnar at UFC 200 in July 2016. The legal battle reached a conclusion in September of last year when all claims against the UFC were dismissed, marking the end of the protracted legal saga. Although no longer associated with the UFC, the fighter known as the "Super Samoan" has continued to compete sporadically in recent years. During an appearance on 'The MMA Hour,' Hunt shed light on an unsettling offer he received from an undisclosed promoter: "I've always been one to stand up for what's right. I was offered three or four million dollars to throw a fight here in Australia, and I was taken aback. I declined because that's not who I am. Despite facing tough times due to personal issues, I couldn't compromise my integrity for money." The 49-year-old fighter emphasized that such actions are contrary to his principles and beliefs, stating, "I'd rather go down fighting than win unfairly. It was a shocking proposition that left me bewildered. I chose to put it behind me, as dwelling on it serves no purpose." In a recent announcement on Instagram, Hunt expressed his intention to return to the ring in 2024, showcasing his eagerness to continue his fighting career despite his age: "I'm optimistic about the upcoming year. In 2024, I plan to compete in three or four fights. I'm considering various offers, and while it's a challenge at my age, both athletically and financially, I'm excited about the prospects." Hunt's revelation has sparked discussions within the MMA community, prompting reflection on the integrity of the sport and the challenges faced by athletes in maintaining their principles amidst financial pressures.