Frank Sanchez, the undefeated 31-year-old heavyweight contender, has faced an uphill battle in securing fights against top-tier opponents. In 2023, Sanchez (24-0, 17 KOs) focused on staying active in the ring, albeit against less formidable competition. His fights against Daniel Martz and Scott Alexander ended swiftly in his favor, with both opponents succumbing to Sanchez's prowess in the early rounds. However, it was his bout against Junior Fa that posed a tougher challenge, with Fa ultimately falling to a seventh-round stoppage. While maintaining his unbeaten record is important to Sanchez, his primary goal remains facing the best in the division. Yet, the heavyweight landscape is currently dominated by engagements involving top names like Tyson Fury, Oleksandr Usyk, Anthony Joshua, Filip Hrgovic, Joseph Parker, Zhilei Zhang, and Daniel Dubois, leaving little room for Sanchez to break into the upper echelon. "I don’t think any of the fighters at the top are on my level," Sanchez asserted. "Whoever comes my way, I’ll be ready for them." Despite these challenges, Sanchez remains patient and focused on honing his skills while awaiting his opportunity to compete against the elite. Expressing confidence in his abilities, Sanchez believes he has what it takes to overcome any opponent in the division.

Daniel Cormier, former UFC heavyweight and light heavyweight champion, is eagerly anticipating a major heavyweight clash in 2024, particularly the long-awaited showdown between his two biggest career rivals, Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. During a recent episode of the DC & RC show on ESPN MMA, Cormier expressed his desire to see Jones and Miocic finally face off in the Octagon. The blockbuster bout was originally scheduled to headline UFC 295 last year but was derailed due to a severe pec injury that sidelined Jones. Instead, an interim title bout between Tom Aspinall and Sergei Pavlovich took place that night, with Aspinall emerging as the victor. Despite Aspinall's subsequent rise to become a titleholder, Jones has remained steadfast in his determination to defend his title against Miocic once he is cleared for competition again. Both Jones and Miocic have had significant rivalries with Cormier in the past, with each having their moments of triumph against him. Cormier emphasized the significance of the potential Jones vs. Miocic clash, stating, "Number one: I gotta see Jones and Miocic. I have to. I have to see those guys fight finally, we've been teased with it for so long. They told us we're gonna have to wait for it, so hey, make it happen. And I also know that it's going to be a fun fight. When those guys walk to the Octagon, because of what they've been to the sport, it's gonna really mean a lot to people who are in attendance and the people watching." In addition to Jones vs. Miocic, Cormier highlighted other fights he would like to see in 2024, including Conor McGregor vs. Michael Chandler and Tom Aspinall facing either Jones or Miocic in potential blockbuster matchups.

Former undisputed welterweight champion Terence Crawford, hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, seemingly put an end to speculation about his rematch with Desoto, Texas’ Errol Spence Jr. on Friday. In a cryptic social media post on X (formerly Twitter), Crawford expressed a sense of finality, saying, “I done heard it all now @ErrolSpenceJr it’s ok tho because all in all I’m glad it’s over and done with. I wish you well ma brotha.” The exact context of Crawford’s message remains unclear, but it might be linked to recent comments by Spence. Earlier in the week, Spence shared a video revealing that he had undergone cataract surgery, his second major eye operation after a detached retina repair in 2021. Spence hinted that his eye condition may have impacted his performance against Crawford, stating, “Sh!t was covering my eye. Why [do] you think I got hit with so many jabs and hooks? Still a great performance by bro [Crawford].” Crawford's social media activity has been rife with confrontational posts, targeting critics, Spence, newly crowned IBF welterweight champion Jaron Ennis, and 140-pound titlist Teofimo Lopez. Last summer, Crawford secured a victory over Spence, defeating him in nine rounds and unifying all four belts in the 147-pound division. Despite this win, Crawford was subsequently stripped of one of his belts by the IBF. Spence invoked his contractual right to a rematch, but details such as the weight class for the fight remain uncertain. While Spence has shown a preference for fighting at 154 pounds, the final decision on the weight division rests with Crawford. Anticipation for the rematch had been building, especially after Premier Boxing Champions, the promotional company representing both fighters, inked a new multi-year deal with Amazon Prime Video. The first “PBC on Prime” event is slated for March, raising hopes for a potential showdown between Crawford and Spence.

In the ever-dynamic world of the UFC, the stage is set for a thrilling clash as The Ultimate Fighter Season 31 winner, Kurt Holobaugh, steps back into the Octagon to face Trey Ogden. The matchup, scheduled for the UFC Fight Night card on March 23, promises to be a highlight reel in the making. As Holobaugh, fresh off his triumphant journey through the TUF Season 31, aims to solidify his place in the UFC, he faces a tough challenge in Ogden. Holobaugh earned his ticket back to the UFC roster after an impressive run on the reality show, where he showcased his skills under the guidance of coaches Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler. His victory over Austin Hubbard at UFC 292, sealed with a second-round triangle choke submission, marked a spectacular return to the big stage. Across the cage stands Trey Ogden, a fighter with an unconventional no-contest on his record from his last outing. Despite initially securing a win over Nikolas Motta, a peculiar turn of events led to a no-contest decision after Ogden's arm-triangle choke didn't result in a tap or unconsciousness from his opponent. Now, fueled by the desire to right that wrong, Ogden looks to make a statement against the seasoned Holobaugh. While the UFC Fight Night card on March 23 is yet to unveil its main event, Holobaugh vs. Ogden is already stealing the spotlight. Set to take place at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, this matchup adds to the excitement of an already stacked card, with fans eagerly anticipating a night filled with unpredictable twists and explosive performances. As Holobaugh and Ogden prepare to go to war inside the Octagon, one can't help but wonder – will Holobaugh's TUF success translate into continued triumph, or will Ogden emerge as the dark horse, rewriting his narrative with a decisive victory? The answer awaits on March 23, and fight fans around the world are counting down the days to witness this electrifying showdown.

ONE Championship has set the stage for a unique clash that transcends disciplines. The legendary Yoshihiro Akiyama is set to make a dazzling return against kickboxing icon Nieky Holzken at ONE 165, scheduled for Jan. 28 in Japan. However, this won't be just any fight – it's a special-rules showdown that promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats. The bout will unfold in three captivating rounds, each governed by different combat styles. The fighters will engage in boxing for the first round, Muay Thai for the second, and finally, MMA for the third. This innovative approach adds an extra layer of excitement to an already anticipated matchup, making it a must-watch for fans worldwide. Holzken, with an illustrious kickboxing career that spans K-1, GLORY, and ONE Championship, boasts an impressive record of 94-18, including a staggering 58 knockouts. The Dutch powerhouse brings a wealth of striking experience into the ring, particularly favoring him in the early rounds under the special-rules format. On the other side of the ring is Akiyama, making his return after almost two years since his last knockout victory against Shinya Aoki at ONE: X in March 2022. Akiyama, with a diverse career in the UFC, DREAM, and K-1, signed with ONE Championship, where he holds a 2-1 record. Despite facing setbacks, including long layoffs, Akiyama's resilience and unique skill set make him a formidable opponent. As the anticipation builds for ONE 165, fight fans can also look forward to other exciting matchups, including the return of UFC veteran Sage Northcutt facing Aoki in a lightweight bout, and grappling sensation Garry Tonon taking on ex-ONE champion Martin Nguyen. This event is shaping up to be a spectacle of epic proportions, reminding us that in the world of combat sports, innovation and excitement go hand in hand.

In the unpredictable world of MMA, the excitement never stops, and UFC Mexico City is no exception. Fans were eagerly anticipating a showdown between Brandon Moreno and Amir Albazi, but fate had other plans. In a surprising turn of events, Albazi has been forced to withdraw from the bout due to a neck injury, leaving a void that needed to be filled. But fear not, fight enthusiasts, for the UFC has swiftly reorganized the event. Stepping up to the plate is none other than former UFC flyweight champion Brandon Moreno, who is set to rematch Brandon Royval in a highly anticipated showdown at UFC Mexico City. This isn't the first time Moreno and Royval have crossed paths. Their initial encounter took place in November 2020 at UFC 255, where Moreno secured a dramatic victory over Royval via TKO with just one second left in the first round. This victory propelled Moreno into a title shot against Deiveson Figueiredo, resulting in a draw and setting off a series of intense title fights. With Moreno winning the series against Figueiredo, he is hungry to regain his former glory after a recent setback against Alexandre Pantoja. On the other side, Royval is determined to bounce back after a decision loss to Pantoja at UFC 296, snapping his three-fight winning streak. UFC Mexico City, scheduled for Feb. 24 at Arena CDMX in Mexico City, promises to deliver yet another night of thrilling and unpredictable action. As the fighters prepare to step into the octagon, fans can't help but wonder: will history repeat itself, or will a new chapter be written in the Moreno vs. Royval saga? One thing is for certain – the fight game never fails to keep us on the edge of our seats.

Fans of martial arts rejoice as ONE Championship, the Singapore-based powerhouse, is set to make a triumphant return to the United States with not one but two exhilarating events in 2024. After a successful debut in Broomfield, Colorado, last May, ONE Championship is gearing up for a double showcase in Denver and Atlanta. The action kicks off with ONE Fight Night 26 at the Ball Arena in Denver on Sept. 6, followed by the highly anticipated ONE Fight Night 28 at Atlanta’s State Farm Arena on Nov. 8. Both events will be broadcast live on Amazon Prime Video in the U.S., ensuring that fans across the nation can witness the excitement unfold. ONE CEO Chatri Sityodtong expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “We’re thrilled to return to the U.S. to showcase the greatest world champion martial artists in the country’s best cities and sports arenas.” With a commitment to global expansion, ONE Championship sees America as a high-priority market, and these quarterly U.S. events in September 2024 and beyond aim to captivate the passionate fanbase in the region. The journey for ONE Championship into the U.S. was initially hampered by the global pandemic, but the promotion made a groundbreaking entry last May in Colorado. The upcoming events in Denver and Atlanta mark a significant step in solidifying one's presence in the American market. While no fights or fighters have been officially announced for these events, the anticipation is high, considering ONE Championship boasts an impressive roster that includes American-based athletes like interim featherweight champion Thanh Le, grappling sensation Garry Tonon, and former UFC star Sage Northcutt. As the countdown begins for the duel in Denver and the showdown in Atlanta, fight enthusiasts can prepare for a visual feast of world-class martial arts, courtesy of ONE Championship.

In a bout that promises fireworks, light heavyweights Dominick Reyes and Carlos Ulberg are set to go toe-to-toe once again as their highly-anticipated clash gets an official reschedule for UFC Atlantic City on March 30. The fight, initially slated for UFC 297 on Jan. 20, had to be postponed due to an injury suffered by Ulberg. Dominick Reyes (12-4), a Californian powerhouse, is on a mission to reclaim his former glory after facing a string of setbacks, including a controversial title loss to Jon Jones in 2020. Reyes, known for his devastating striking, looks to bounce back from his recent knockout losses against Jan Blachowicz, Jiri Prochazka, and Ryan Spann. Carlos Ulberg (9-1), the promising talent hailing from New Zealand, brings a five-fight UFC win streak to the octagon. With impressive stoppage victories over formidable opponents, including Tafon Nchukwi and Nicolae Negumereanu, Ulberg looks to continue his ascent in the light heavyweight division. Notably, he is a training partner of former two-time UFC middleweight champion Israel Adesanya at City Kickboxing. The clash between Reyes and Ulberg has fight fans eagerly anticipating a battle of striking prowess and knockout potential. With both fighters hungry for victory, the rescheduled matchup adds an extra layer of intensity to UFC Atlantic City. As the two warriors prepare to collide at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, New Jersey, the stage is set for a light heavyweight showdown that could shape the future of the division.

Roberto Durán, known affectionately as "Manos de Piedra" (Hands of Stone), is a legendary figure in the world of boxing. His career, spanning over decades, is marked by triumphs, setbacks, and a relentless fighting spirit that has cemented his legacy as one of the sport's greatest champions. Born on June 16, 1951, in El Chorrillo, Panama, Durán showed an early affinity for boxing, honing his skills in the rough streets of his neighborhood. His raw talent and ferocious fighting style quickly caught the attention of trainers and fans alike, setting the stage for a remarkable career. Durán turned professional at the young age of 16, embarking on a journey that would see him rise to the top of the boxing world. His aggressive style, characterized by relentless pressure and devastating power, made him a force to be reckoned with in the ring. He swiftly climbed the ranks, earning a reputation as a fearsome competitor. In 1972, Durán captured his first world title, defeating Ken Buchanan to claim the WBA lightweight championship. This victory marked the beginning of a dominant era for Durán, during which he would defend his title against a string of formidable opponents, solidifying his status as a boxing icon. One of Durán's most memorable fights came in 1980 when he faced Sugar Ray Leonard in a highly anticipated showdown. The bout, dubbed the "Brawl in Montreal," showcased Durán's tenacity and skill as he outboxed Leonard to claim the WBC welterweight title in a stunning upset. Durán's career, however, was not without its challenges. He experienced both triumphs and defeats, facing setbacks that tested his resolve. Yet, through it all, Durán remained a fierce competitor, earning respect and admiration for his unwavering determination. Beyond his in-ring accomplishments, Durán's impact on the sport extends to his influence outside the ring. He inspired generations of boxers with his gritty style and indomitable spirit, leaving an enduring legacy that continues to shape the sport today. In recognition of his contributions to boxing, Durán was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2007, cementing his place among the sport's all-time greats. His legacy serves as a testament to the enduring power of perseverance, skill, and passion in the world of boxing.

In a groundbreaking announcement, UFC CEO Dana White revealed that UFC 300 will feature a historic all-Chinese title fight between Zhang Weili and Yan Xiaonan. This eagerly anticipated matchup not only showcases the pinnacle of talent in the strawweight division but also marks the first time two Chinese fighters will vie for a UFC title. White took to Instagram to express his excitement, stating, "This fight has badass written all over it." The clash between Zhang and Yan is set to captivate fight fans worldwide, adding a significant chapter to the blockbuster event scheduled for April 13 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Yan Xiaonan, with a record of 6-2 in her past eight fights, earned her title shot by knocking out former champion Jessica Andrade at UFC 288. Despite Yan's initial wish to fight for the title in China, the bout will now take place in the UFC's backyard, eliminating concerns about potential detractors in her home country. Zhang Weili, entering her second reign as UFC strawweight champion, will defend her title for the second time at UFC 300. Her most recent triumph came at UFC 292, where she outpointed Amanda Lemos. The clash with Yan Xiaonan adds another layer of significance to Zhang's journey as she attempts to solidify her dominance in the division. The announcement of this historic all-Chinese title fight brings a unique flavor to UFC 300, which is still without a headliner. Dana White has promised additional announcements for the banner fight card, heightening the anticipation for what promises to be an unforgettable event. Among the notable matchups, a pivotal lightweight showdown between ex-champ Charles Oliveira and Arman Tsarukyan is already generating buzz. As UFC 300 takes shape, the clash between Zhang Weili and Yan Xiaonan stands out not only for its historical significance but for the potential fireworks it promises inside the octagon. The MMA world eagerly awaits April 13 to witness this groundbreaking moment and celebrate the continued global expansion of the sport.

Arman Tsarukyan, a rising UFC fighter, has his sights set on a title shot against Islam Makhachev this summer, aiming to secure it by knocking out Charles Oliveira. Tsarukyan's path to the championship begins with his upcoming fight against Oliveira at UFC 300, which has been labeled a number one contender bout. The winner is expected to challenge Makhachev for the title later in the year. In a recent interview on Cormier's YouTube channel, Tsarukyan outlined his strategy against Oliveira. Confident in his wrestling and jiu-jitsu skills, Tsarukyan believes that by incorporating ground and pound into the fight, he can prevent Oliveira from executing submissions effectively. He emphasized the difficulty of securing submissions against high-level opponents and expressed his intention to showcase his superiority by knocking out Oliveira in the first round. “To choke someone is so difficult, especially when I train with high-level fighters. To choke them you’ve got to beat them for 15-20 minutes, and then when he gets tired, you can finish. First two rounds, it’s almost impossible to choke high-level fighters. I believe that I can do that in the first round, and I want to show everybody I’m the best here. My goal is to go there, and knock him out in the first round to show everybody I deserve that title fight.” Tsarukyan then gave his thoughts on the idea of Islam Makhachev vs Justin Gaethje in June. Regarding Makhachev's potential bout against Justin Gaethje in June, Tsarukyan expressed his belief that Makhachev should wait for the outcome of his fight with Oliveira before considering any other matchups. Tsarukyan sees himself and Oliveira as the top contenders and expects Makhachev to await their fight result before making any decisions about future opponents. Tsarukyan's confidence and determination reflect his ambition to climb the ranks and secure a shot at the UFC title. His upcoming bout against Oliveira at UFC 300 will be a crucial step in his journey towards championship contention.

Jim Miller has expressed confidence in his ability to defeat former UFC heavyweight champion Brock Lesnar in a hypothetical fight. The discussion arose during the Believe You Me podcast, where Anthony Smith and Michael Bisping debated potential opponents for Miller in UFC 300. Smith suggested that a bout between Miller and Lesnar would be evenly matched despite the significant size difference. Smith acknowledged Lesnar's power but emphasized Miller's ground skills, believing that Miller could secure a submission victory. When asked about this hypothetical matchup during UFC Vegas 84 media day, Miller affirmed his belief that he could submit Lesnar. Drawing on his experience training with heavyweight grapplers, Miller highlighted his ability to execute a kimura submission, citing his strength and technique as key factors. Despite acknowledging the challenge of facing someone of Lesnar's size, Miller remained confident in his skills and expressed appreciation for the discussion. “I’ve trained with plenty of heavyweights through the years. My team now is a little bit smaller than me, but like, I don’t like to bring up, because training is training, and I’m not a fan of keeping score, but I’ve trained with plenty of heavyweight world champ grapplers and stuff like that and I’ve subbed ‘em out,” Jim Miller. “So, I know that if I can isolate something, I could kimura Brock Lesnar. I know that I could because I can lift enough, I can deadlift over 500 pounds, I can straighten the guy’s arm, he can’t single-arm curl 500 pounds. So, it’s about isolating and stuff like that. It’s gonna suck, I don’t want to be underneath him, but I appreciate the push. We’ll take it. 50/50,” Miller continued. While a fight between Miller and Lesnar is unlikely due to the size disparity, Miller sees it as an intriguing scenario. He believes he could secure a victory and possibly finish Lesnar, showcasing his confidence and determination. Currently preparing for his upcoming bout against Gabriel Benitez at UFC Vegas 84, Miller aims for a quick finish to position himself for a potential appearance at UFC 300, showcasing his eagerness to compete at the highest level. Follow FIGHT.TV for the latest news and updates from the world of boxing and MMA.