The landscape of MMA promotions is in a state of flux, marked by the recent acquisition of Bellator by the PFL. This shift has sparked discussions about the future of co-promotions and alliances within the industry, and RIZIN President Nobuyuki Sakakibara stands at the forefront of this dialogue, discussing potential collaborations and the evolving dynamics in the Japanese fight scene. RIZIN, known for its grand spectacles and collaborative efforts with Bellator in the past, especially during events such as the New Year's Eve extravaganzas that saw fighters from both promotions clash on Japanese soil, faces uncertainty with Bellator's transition under new ownership. Sakakibara highlighted the pivotal role of established relationships, emphasizing the need for promoters to unite in advancing the sport. "The relationship that we've had with Scott Coker…this goes way back," Sakakibara stated, underscoring the foundation that enabled successful co-promotions. "When two promoters get together and start thinking about what the best move is for the future of our sport, we can make these things happen." The prospect of continued collaboration between RIZIN and Bellator's new leadership under Donn Davis hinges on shared ideologies and mutual visions for MMA. Sakakibara elucidated the significance of aligning philosophies and objectives to recreate past joint ventures successfully. Acknowledging the changing landscape, Sakakibara expressed openness to collaborating with promoters who share RIZIN's vision, stating, "Our doors are always open," while welcoming healthy competition in the market, including ONE Championship's foray into Japan and expressing interest in potential UFC events in the country. Sakakibara's emphasis on diverse promotions entering Japan as a boon rather than a threat highlights RIZIN's commitment to providing Japanese fight enthusiasts with a variety of combat sports offerings. He envisions a future where multiple promotions coexist, enriching the local fight scene and providing fans with diverse experiences.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has had its fair share of controversial moments that have sparked debate and discussion among fans, fighters, and pundits alike. From disputed decisions to shocking incidents inside and outside the cage, these moments have left a lasting impact on the sport. Here are the top five most controversial moments in MMA history: 1. UFC 167: Georges St-Pierre vs. Johny Hendricks Decision (2013) One of the most controversial decisions in UFC history occurred at UFC 167 when Georges St-Pierre defended his welterweight title against Johny Hendricks. Despite many believing that Hendricks had done enough to win the fight, the judges awarded a split decision victory to St-Pierre. The decision led to widespread criticism and calls for changes in judging criteria in MMA. 2. UFC 229: Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Conor McGregor Post-Fight Brawl (2018) Following Khabib Nurmagomedov's submission victory over Conor McGregor at UFC 229, chaos erupted as Nurmagomedov leaped over the cage and attacked McGregor's cornermen. Simultaneously, members of Nurmagomedov's team entered the cage and confronted McGregor. The incident marred what was billed as one of the biggest fights in MMA history and led to suspensions and fines for both fighters and their teams. 3. UFC 210: Daniel Cormier vs. Anthony Johnson Towel Incident (2017) During the weigh-ins for UFC 210, Daniel Cormier controversially used a towel to help him make weight for his light heavyweight title defense against Anthony Johnson. The use of the towel sparked accusations of cheating and raised questions about the integrity of the weigh-in process in MMA. 4. Strikeforce: Nick Diaz vs. Takanori Gomi Drug Test Controversy (2007) After his submission win over Takanori Gomi in a non-title bout at Pride 33, Nick Diaz tested positive for marijuana. However, the result was later changed to a no-contest due to a technicality regarding the drug testing procedures. The controversy surrounding the fight raised questions about the enforcement of drug policies in MMA. 5. UFC 178: Yoel Romero vs. Tim Kennedy Stoolgate (2014) During his fight against Tim Kennedy at UFC 178, Yoel Romero was given extra time to recover between rounds after his corner failed to remove a stool from the octagon in a timely manner. The extended break allowed Romero to regain his composure and ultimately win the fight via TKO. The incident sparked debate about the role of corners in influencing the outcome of fights. These controversial moments have left a lasting impact on MMA, shaping the way the sport is perceived and the rules that govern it. While they may have been contentious at the time, they have also contributed to the ongoing evolution of the sport and the continued efforts to ensure fairness and integrity in MMA.

Miesha Tate's recent victory against Julia Avila at UFC Austin wasn't just another fight for the former bantamweight champion. After facing criticism and doubts about her abilities following a two-fight losing streak, Tate approached the bout with a determination reminiscent of her title fights against Ronda Rousey and Holly Holm. Tate, who returned from a five-year retirement in 2021, felt the pressure to prove herself once again. "I just heard a lot of noise, and people thinking, ‘She’s done. She’s washed up. She should retire.’ And I really felt that, and in a way, that made me feel like I have so much to prove, much like a title fight," she explained on The MMA Hour. Her dominant performance against Avila, which ended with a third-round submission, marked a turning point in her comeback. Tate's renewed focus and training approach, guided by her fiance Johnny Nunez and wrestling coach Kirk White, played a crucial role in her victory. Reflecting on her journey, Tate acknowledged the challenges she faced in her personal and professional life, including her previous relationship with UFC bantamweight veteran Bryan Caraway. After redefining her relationship with MMA and assembling a new support team, Tate has embraced a more strategic approach to her fights, emphasizing her grappling skills and mental preparation. As she looks ahead, Tate remains focused on her immediate goals, taking each fight as it comes. With a record of 2-2 since her return, she understands the road to another title shot will require more victories. However, Tate values her current approach, focusing on her personal growth and performance rather than just chasing UFC gold. Regardless of what lies ahead, Tate's victory at UFC Austin serves as a testament to her resilience and determination, echoing the pivotal moments of her career and signaling her continued evolution as a fighter.

After his impressive first-round knockout victory over Brian Kelleher at UFC 296, Cody Garbrandt is eyeing a path back to the top of the bantamweight division. However, despite his resurgence, a rematch with Dominick Cruz, the man he took the belt from in 2016, doesn't interest him. In an interview with ESPN, Garbrandt expressed his disinterest in a rematch with Cruz, stating, "Honestly, that fight doesn’t interest me. What else am I supposed to do with the guy? Go in and knock him out this time? That’s the only thing that would kind of put a statement or top that. It’s so hard to top that performance." Garbrandt's victory over Cruz at UFC 207 marked a high point in his career, but subsequent losses and setbacks followed. Now, with two consecutive wins at bantamweight, he is focused on a potential fight against former flyweight champion Deiveson Figueiredo. "I’ll fight anybody. It doesn’t matter," Garbrandt emphasized. "But at the end of the day, Deiveson Figueiredo coming to the bantamweight division and having a win over Rob Font, I go knock Deiveson out, and it puts me right back in title contention." Garbrandt's history with current bantamweight champion Sean O'Malley adds an extra layer of intrigue to his future plans. "If Sean’s still the champion when it’s my time to punch that ticket again, I would absolutely love that," he stated. "And if he’s not, then I’ve got to work my way to Sean if he loses... I think a crash course with Sean is definitely in the near future. A money fight, that’s what this is all about." With his sights set on reclaiming the bantamweight title and settling his score with O'Malley, Garbrandt's return to form has reignited his aspirations for championship glory in the UFC.

Ryan Garner's return to the spotlight may have been delayed until next year, but his journey back as a potential star has been one of the most inspiring stories in British boxing in 2023. Despite facing setbacks and doubts about his career, the unbeaten super featherweight has shown his talent and determination over the past 18 months, building momentum with two impressive stoppage victories. His signing for a high-profile fight with former British and current IBO champion Anthony Cacace generated significant buzz in British boxing circles, but unfortunately, the fight didn't materialize due to Cacace's wrist injury. In the past, such a setback might have derailed Garner's progress, but this time he remained focused and determined. Reflecting on the turn of events, Garner expressed his disappointment but remained optimistic about the future, aiming to continue his success in the upcoming year. Looking ahead, Garner is eager to make up for lost time and is open to taking on big challenges. With his eyes set on multiple titles and a desire to provide for his family, he is determined to prove himself in the ring and elevate his career to new heights in 2024. Despite the challenges he has faced, Garner's resilience and determination have marked him as one of the brightest prospects in British boxing. As he enters a new phase in his career, he is prepared to take on any challenge that comes his way, confident in his abilities and eager to make his mark on the sport.

Former heavyweight titlist Andy Ruiz, who was present at the recent fight card in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, expressed his satisfaction at seeing Deontay Wilder suffer a defeat at the hands of Joseph Parker last Saturday night. Ruiz, hailing from Imperial, Calif., witnessed a night of high-stakes bouts, including Anthony Joshua's victory over Otto Wallin in the main event. A potential matchup between Joshua and Wilder was rumored for March in Riyadh, contingent on both fighters winning their respective fights. While Joshua secured a swift victory over Wallin in five rounds, Wilder faced a tough challenge from Parker. After 12 rounds, Parker was declared the winner by unanimous decision, dealing Wilder a significant setback. In an interview following the event, Ruiz expressed his delight at Parker's victory, citing his disdain for Wilder's previous trash talk. Ruiz and Wilder have engaged in public exchanges over a potential fight, adding fuel to their rivalry. “I wanted him to beat the sh!t out of Wilder because he was talking sh!t. He talked so much sh!t to everybody saying he's gonna knock this guy out, that guy out, and I was super happy with Joseph Parker, man. Despite his own inactivity since his 2019 loss to Joshua, Ruiz remains eager to return to the ring next year. He expressed interest in a rematch with either Joshua or Parker, particularly seeking to avenge his prior defeat to Parker in 2016 for the vacant WBO title. "I just want to see if AJ wants to run it back, get the trilogy, maybe not," Ruiz remarked, indicating his willingness to face Joshua again.

As the stakes heighten and the spotlight intensifies, Erin Blanchfield gears up for a monumental showdown against Manon Fiorot, seeking to assert her claim as the rightful No. 1 contender in the UFC women's division. Set to collide with Fiorot at UFC Fight Night on March 30 in Atlantic City, Blanchfield (12-1) views this clash as the defining moment to solidify her status in the championship conversation. Both fighters have remained unbeaten within the octagon, ascending the ranks to the summit of their division. Acknowledging Fiorot's skill and standing within the division, Blanchfield recognizes the French fighter as her closest competition for a title shot. With champion Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko locked in a gripping rivalry culminating in a split draw, Blanchfield sees an opportunity to stake her claim emphatically while the title picture unfolds. "I feel like it’s me and her have been neck-and-neck, winning fights," Blanchfield remarked in an interview. "Proving that there’s nobody else that deserves that title shot more than me is something I’m excited to do and I’m looking for a finish March 30." Analyzing her opponent's style, Blanchfield remains unfazed by Fiorot's strengths, identifying her as a skilled kickboxer who employs range to her advantage. Despite Fiorot's proficiency in maintaining distance, Blanchfield exudes confidence in her abilities to counter and close the distance effectively. "I feel like with Rose, she kind of kept her at distance. Rose was having a hard time closing the distance," Blanchfield noted. "I don’t think there’s anything too crazy dynamic about her game. She’s decently well-rounded, but she’s going to look to use her striking to keep me away." Expressing her readiness to seize the moment, Blanchfield remains undeterred by the challenge Fiorot presents. With an unwavering focus on victory and a calculated strategy to showcase her dominance, Blanchfield aims to leave no doubts in the minds of fans and UFC brass that she's next in line for the coveted title shot. "I have no problem going and doing that. I know that it maybe takes a couple of extra fights, but proving that there’s nobody else that deserves that title shot more than me is something I’m excited to do," Blanchfield affirmed, setting the stage for an enthralling encounter that could potentially shape the future of the UFC women's division.

In the tumultuous world of MMA, where rivalries are born and resolved within the cage, Aaron Pico’s fervent desire for a rematch with Jeremy Kennedy remains unrequited, casting a shadow over his holiday season. Pico, who boasts an impressive record of twelve victories in the MMA realm, had his winning streak disrupted by a pivotal encounter against Jeremy Kennedy at Bellator 286 in 2022. Unfortunately, a shoulder injury marred this clash, culminating in a TKO after the first round – a blemish on Pico's otherwise stellar career. Keen to rectify the outcome, Pico has persistently petitioned for a rematch, emphasizing the need to settle the score in fair combat. Expressing his eagerness to relive the contest under more equitable circumstances, Pico voiced his dismay at Kennedy's reluctance to engage in a second bout. Despite sharing the same manager, Ali Abdelaziz, Pico found himself met with evasion rather than acceptance from Kennedy’s camp regarding the rematch proposal. The initial injury during the Kennedy fight, a dislocated shoulder, underscored the unpredictability and physical toll of the sport. Although Pico exhibited remarkable resilience, even expressing willingness to continue into the second round, fate had intervened with the referee's stoppage. Promising a rematch immediately after the Bellator president Scott Coker assured him that the loss wouldn't taint his record, Pico was poised for redemption. However, the journey to reclaim his shot at Kennedy took unexpected turns. Instead of the anticipated rematch, Pico found himself steered toward other opponents, encountering a series of roadblocks on the path to closure. The complexity of rankings and contendership dynamics within the fight world further muddied the waters for Pico. His frustration was palpable as he narrated the sequence of events, recounting instances where his pursuit of the rematch was deferred in favor of other matchups, leaving him in a state of perpetual anticipation. Despite the ambiguity surrounding his future fights and the elusive rematch, Pico remains resolute and undeterred. His unwavering dedication to self-improvement, both in the gym and in his personal life, signifies a fighter honing his skills and fortitude, primed and ready for any challenge that comes his way. As Pico aptly put it, “I’m not sitting at my house whining or complaining. I’m in the gym getting better." His determination to evolve and grow, both as an athlete and as an individual, serves as a testament to his resilience and unwavering commitment to his craft, setting the stage for a potential resurgence in the realm of MMA.

In the gritty world of MMA, setbacks are part of the game, and Polish fighter Jan Blachowicz has faced another unexpected hurdle on his path back to the octagon. A recent update on his health journey shared on social media revealed that the former UFC light heavyweight champion won't be stepping into the cage anytime soon due to an unfortunate shoulder injury that demands surgical attention. Just weeks after withdrawing from a much-anticipated rematch with Aleksandar Rakic, slated for UFC 297, Blachowicz disclosed the need for surgery on his shoulders. The situation took a turn when the initial operation on his right shoulder led to the realization that both shoulders require medical intervention, elongating his road to recovery. Approaching his 41st birthday, the timeline for Blachowicz's return to fighting form remains uncertain. His last showdown at UFC 291 in July ended in a razor-thin split decision loss to Alex Pereira, the eventual titleholder. Notably, his preceding bout against Magomed Ankalaev at UFC 282 concluded in a gripping split draw, showcasing Blachowicz's unwavering determination despite the championship title slipping through his grasp. Meanwhile, his erstwhile opponent, Rakic, swiftly secured a new bout against Jiri Prochazka at UFC 300 in Las Vegas on April 13, marking a forward stride in his career despite the canceled matchup with Blachowicz. As fans eagerly await his triumphant return, the Polish powerhouse remains a testament to the fortitude required in the tumultuous journey of a professional fighter. His setback might delay his return, but the champion's heart beats strong, signaling that his comeback will be nothing short of spectacular.

Boxing has a long and storied history filled with memorable moments that have captivated audiences around the world. However, alongside the triumphs and displays of skill, the sport has also seen its fair share of controversies. From disputed decisions to shocking incidents, these moments have sparked debate and left a lasting impact on the sport. Here are five of the most controversial moments in boxing history: The Bite Fight (1997): In a highly anticipated rematch between Evander Holyfield and Mike Tyson, Tyson stunned the world by biting off a piece of Holyfield's ear during the third round. The fight was immediately stopped, and Tyson was disqualified, leading to widespread condemnation and a lengthy suspension for Tyson. The Phantom Punch (1965): In a bout between Muhammad Ali (then known as Cassius Clay) and Sonny Liston, Ali delivered a quick right hand that dropped Liston to the canvas. However, many observers believed Liston took a dive, leading to allegations of a fixed fight. The Olympic Robbery (1988): In the final of the light welterweight division at the Seoul Olympics, South Korean boxer Park Si-hun was awarded a controversial victory over American Roy Jones Jr. Despite dominating the fight, Jones was denied the gold medal in a decision that was widely criticized as a hometown favoritism. The 'No Mas' Fight (1980): In a highly anticipated rematch between Sugar Ray Leonard and Roberto Duran, Duran shocked the boxing world by uttering the words "No mas" (Spanish for "no more") in the eighth round, signaling his surrender. The exact reason for Duran's capitulation remains a subject of debate to this day. The Tyson vs. Douglas Upset (1990): In one of the biggest upsets in boxing history, Mike Tyson, considered unbeatable at the time, was knocked out by Buster Douglas in the tenth round. The result stunned the boxing world and led to questions about Tyson's preparation and mindset. These moments have left a lasting impression on boxing, showcasing both its drama and its controversies. While they may have been contentious at the time, they have become an integral part of the sport's rich tapestry, adding to its allure and complexity.

Andy Ruiz is setting his sights on a return to the boxing ring in 2024 after a period of relative inactivity. Last Saturday night, Ruiz was in attendance at the 'Day of Reckoning' event in Saudi Arabia, where he witnessed several top heavyweights, including Frank Sanchez, Filip Hrgovic, Agit Kabayel, Deontay Wilder, Joseph Parker, Otto Wallin, Daniel Dubois, Jarrell Miller, and Anthony Joshua, in action. Ruiz has had a limited number of fights in recent years, having only stepped into the ring twice since his twelve-round decision loss to Anthony Joshua in their rematch in 2019. His victories include a twelve-round decision win over Chris Arreola in 2021 and a tough twelve-round decision over Luis Ortiz in September 2022. Negotiations for a final WBC eliminator clash with Deontay Wilder were rumored since late last year, but they failed to materialize due to reported disagreements over financial terms. Similar challenges arose when attempts were made to arrange a fight with WBC champion Tyson Fury, with Ruiz allegedly pricing himself out of the match, according to promoter Frank Warren. Despite these setbacks, the 34-year-old Ruiz remains determined to make a significant impact in the heavyweight division once again. "I need to get ready. I feel really good," Ruiz stated in an interview with TNT Sports. "In 2024, we're coming back. I had surgery on my right shoulder, so I already had two months preparing and recovering. I need two more months, and I'll be ready to go next year. I need to check out all the opponents and need to get ready. In 2024 is when it's going to go down." With Ruiz's sights set on a comeback and aspirations for another successful run in the heavyweight division, his return in 2024 could mark a significant chapter in his boxing career. Follow FIGHT.TV for more news and updates from the world of Combat Sports.

Floyd Mayweather's undefeated legacy is a testament to his dominance in the boxing ring. Throughout his career, he faced formidable opponents like Miguel Cotto, Ricky Hatton, and Oscar De La Hoya, emerging victorious against each one. However, according to Adrien Broner, there's one name missing from Mayweather's list of challengers that could have changed the narrative—his own. In a recent interview on The Art Of Dialogue, Broner expressed confidence in his ability to defeat Mayweather if they had ever faced off in the ring. Despite Mayweather's retirement from professional boxing, he has continued to participate in lucrative exhibition matches, showcasing his skills and earning substantial paydays. Meanwhile, Broner, a 34-year-old native of Cincinnati, Ohio, has had his ups and downs in the sport. Although currently on a two-fight win streak, he endured a three-year period without a victory. Despite his setbacks, Broner remains focused on regaining a world championship title. Reflecting on a potential matchup with Mayweather, Broner maintains that he would have held the upper hand, despite Mayweather's status as an all-time great and one of his childhood idols. Broner acknowledges the possibility of learning from a defeat but is unwavering in his belief in his own abilities. Broner was slated to return to the ring on December 2, but a training camp injury forced a postponement of his next fight to late February. Despite the delay, Broner remains determined to continue his pursuit of boxing success.