HEAVYWEIGHT KNOCKOUT ARTISTS (#9) DERRICK LEWIS AND (#14) TALLISON TEIXEIRA HEADLINE UFC® RETURN TO NASHVILLE

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Nashville with a clash of heavyweight knockout artists as former world title challenger and current No. 9 ranked contender Derrick Lewis battles No. 14 Tallison Teixeira. Also, fan favorite No. 15 ranked featherweight contender Calvin Kattar takes on Steve Garcia.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: LEWIS vs. TEIXEIRA takes place Sat., July 12 at Bridgestone Arena. The entire card will be available on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, as well as in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting with the prelims at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT followed by the main card at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: LEWIS vs. TEIXEIRA tickets will go on sale Fri., May 30 at 10 a.m. CT and are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^®members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wed., May 28 at 10 a.m. CT via the website UFCFightClub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thurs., May 29 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

UFC KO king Lewis (28-12, 1NC, fighting out of Houston, Texas) aims to add to his record 15 UFC knockouts with another highlight-reel stoppage. Stepping into his 10^th UFC main event, Lewis has consistently entertained fans with his finishes of Curtis Blaydes, Alexander Volkov and Rodrigo Nascimento. He now looks to defend his spot in the rankings from another rising prospect with a dominant showcase.

Dana White’s Contender Series standout Teixeira (8-0, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) plans to make the most of his first UFC main event with a spectacular upset. Undefeated with an impressive 100 percent first-round finishing rate, Teixeira proved he has what it takes to compete with the best in the world with victories over Justin Tafa and Arthur Lopes. He now has his sights set on taking out Lewis in the biggest opportunity of his career.

Kattar (23-9, fighting out of Methuen, Mass.) makes his second Octagon appearance of 2025. The owner of five Fight of the Night bonuses, he holds notable wins over Giga Chikadze, Dan Ige and Jeremy Stephens. Now, Kattar is determined to deliver a vintage performance by going toe-to-toe with Garcia.

Garcia (17-5, fighting out of Albuquerque, N.M.) intends to extend his winning streak and break into the featherweight rankings. He is currently tied for the fourth most consecutive knockouts in UFC history with five, including those over Kyle Nelson, Melquizael Costa and Chase Hooper. Garcia now looks to make his biggest statement yet by finishing Kattar.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Jake Matthews (21-7, fighting out of Epping, Victoria, Australia) clashes with Chidi Njokuani (25-10, 1NC, fighting out of Garland, Texas) in a thrilling welterweight contest
Light heavyweight action sees Junior Tafa (6-3, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia) take on Tuco Tokkos (10-5, fighting out of Deerfield Beach, Fla. by way of London, England)
Dana White’s Contender Series alum Ateba Gautier (7-1, fighting out of Yaounde, Cameroon) looks for another impressive KO when he faces Robert Valentin (11-5, 1NC, fighting out of Zurich, Switzerland)
Vitor Petrino (11-2, fighting out of Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais, Brazil) makes his heavyweight debut against Austen Lane (13-6, 1NC, fighting out of Jacksonville, Fla.)
Max Griffin (20-11, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) makes his first Octagon appearance of 2025 as he welcomes Chris Curtis (31-12, 1NC, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) back to the welterweight division
Strawweight prospects lock horns as Fatima Kline (7-1, fighting out of Hyde Park, N.Y.) battles Melissa Martinez (8-1, fighting out of Mexico City, Mexico)
Former flyweight title challenger Lauren Murphy (16-6, fighting out of Denver, Colo., by way of Houston, Texas) returns against Eduarda Moura (11-1, fighting out of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit UFC.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for credentials to the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and approximately 266 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 900 million households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About Bridgestone Arena

Serving as the home for numerous national and international events, Bridgestone Arena has the distinction of being one of the busiest venues in the United States since the doors first opened in 1996, hosting more than 28 million guests during that time. The NHL’s Nashville Predators have been the primary tenants of Bridgestone Arena since 1998 and boast one of the most unique game atmospheres in the NHL. The list of acts that have called the 2021 Pollstar Arena of the Decade nominee home is lengthy and includes the Country Music Association Awards, the Country Music Television Awards and the SEC Basketball Tournament through 2035. Bridgestone Arena has 16 consecutive and 19 overall nominations for the Pollstar Magazine Arena Year of the Award, winning the award in 2014, 2017 and 2023.

About ESPN+

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About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading multiplatform sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, the leading sports app, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, leading social and digital platforms, ESPN.com, ESPN Audio, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

UFC TAKES OVER SMOOTHIE KING CENTER IN NEW ORLEANS WITH BMF HEADLINER

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to New Orleans, Louisiana with an epic showdown for the UFC BMF title between titleholder Max Holloway and No. 5 ranked lightweight Dustin Poirier, a Louisiana native making his final walk to the Octagon against an opponent he has squared off against twice. Also featured on the card, ranked middleweights No. 10 Marvin Vettori and No. 11 Brendan Allen square off in a high stakes matchup.

UFC^® 318: HOLLOWAY vs. POIRIER 3 will take place Saturday, July 19 at Smoothie King Center with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/ 7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV. The prelims will be available on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, Disney+, and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6:00 p.m. ET / 3:00 p.m. PT on ESPN+, Disney+, and UFC Fight Pass.

UFC VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that includes premium seating, all-inclusive hospitality, in-seat beverage service, meet-and-greets with UFC Octagon Girls and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information.

“For Dustin Poirier to be able to finish his remarkable UFC career in New Orleans is special, said Peter Dropick, Executive Vice President of Event Development and Operations, UFC. “Thank you to the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, the Louisiana Office of Tourism, New Orleans & Company and Smoothie King Center for helping us make this happen. It’s been 10 years since we’ve held an event in New Orleans, we know the fans are ready for us to be back!”

“Hosting a world-class UFC event in New Orleans is not only a celebration of one of Louisiana’s greatest athletes and dear friend, Dustin Poirier, but also a major economic win for our state,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “We’re grateful to UFC leadership, the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation, local organizers, and everyone who worked to bring this incredible event to our state. Louisiana will be on the world stage once again— and we couldn’t be prouder.”

“Once again, all eyes will be on Louisiana as New Orleans hosts a sporting event that has millions of fans. We’re also excited to see and support Louisiana legend Dustin Poirier end his historic career in the state where he was born and raised. It’s truly a Cinderella story,” said Louisiana Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser.

“This is a unique opportunity for sports fans across the state to celebrate our hometown hero on the global stage at a premier UFC event right here in New Orleans,” said Jay Cicero, President and CEO of the Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation. “The Greater New Orleans Sports Foundation and ASM Global have been working with our partners at the State of Louisiana, New Orleans & Company, and the Louisiana Office of Tourism, to make this event a reality. We encourage all Louisiana sport fans to be part of this historic night – tickets are on sale now, and we look forward to filling the Smoothie King Center on July 19!”

“UFC 318 provides a tremendous opportunity for New Orleans to showcase why we are built to host major events to sports enthusiasts, as well as a global viewing audience,” said Walt Leger, President & CEO of New Orleans & Company, the official destination marketing and sales organization for the New Orleans tourism industry. “We are excited to welcome the entire UFC team, fans and journalists to New Orleans to watch a great lineup of fights and enjoy the best New Orleans has to offer.”

“We are extremely thrilled to host the final UFC fight for Louisiana legend Dustin Poirier, who will make his final walk to the Octagon in the Smoothie King Center in July,” said ASM New Orleans/Smoothie King Center General Manager Evan Holmes. “Poirier targeted New Orleans for his final fight to bring full-circle a long career that began with Louisiana roots. And we couldn’t be happier to be a part of this iconic moment for him.”

Holloway (26-8, fighting out of Waianae, Hawaii) looks to deliver another unforgettable finish. One of the greatest featherweights of all-time, the Hawaii native has become a fan-favorite over the years with his highlight-reel performances against notable names such as Justin Gaethje, The Korean Zombie, and Frankie Edgar. He now sets forth to avenge his losses to Poirier and successfully defend the BMF crown.

Poirier (30-9, 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Lafayette, La.) sets out for battle one last time. Competing in the UFC for almost 15 years, Poirier has delivered countless memorable moments, most notably against top talent such as Conor McGregor (x2), Michael Chandler, and Dan Hooker. Looking to go out on top, Poirier plans for the perfect storybook ending to a legendary career by defeating Holloway in emphatic fashion.

Vettori (19-8-1, fighting out of Mezzocorona, Italy) returns to action looking for redemption. A near decade long veteran of the 185-pound division, Vettori has earned his spot amongst the best by defeating the likes of Roman Dolidze, Paulo Costa, and Kevin Holland. He now aims to deliver a statement performance against Allen and reinsert his name back in the mix for UFC gold.

Allen (24-7, fighting out of Delray Beach, Fla. by way of Covington, La.) makes his return to the Octagon for the opportunity of a lifetime in his home state. The Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner has become a prominent contender by defeating the likes of Chris Curtis, Paul Craig, and Bruno Silva. Allen now turns his attention to Vettori as he looks to secure the biggest win of his career and continue to climb the rankings.

Additional bouts on the card include:

No. 7 ranked strawweight Amanda Ribas (12-6, fighting out of Varginha, Minas Gerais, Brazil) locks horns with No. 10. Tabatha Ricci (11-3, fighting out of Ventura, Calif. by way of Birigui, São Paulo, Brazil)
Kyler Phillips (12-3, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) and Vinicius Oliveira (22-3, fighting out of Lomba Do Pinheiro, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil) battle at bantamweight
Welterweight veterans Neil Magny (29-14, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) and Gunnar Nelson (19-6-1, fighting out of Reykjavik, Iceland)clash in an intriguing bout
A welterweight tilt sees Adam Fuitt (10-4, fighting out of Eugene, Ore.) face off with Islam Dulatov (12-6, fighting out of Dusseldorf, Germany)
Jimmy Crute (12-4-2, fighting out of Bendigo, Victoria, Australia) takes on Marcin Prachnio (17-8, fighting out of Warsaw, Poland) at light heavyweight
A middleweight contest pits Ikram Aliskerov (16-2, fighting out of Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia) against Brunno Ferreira (13-2, fighting out of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil)
Carli Judice (4-2, fighting out of Lafayette, La.) collides with Nicolle Caliari (8-3, fighting out of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil) at flyweight

For the latest information on bout announcements and additional information for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 259 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 975 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

About ESPN+?? ??

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About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more.?ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLEHEADER HEADLINES UFC INTERNATIONAL FIGHT WEEKÔ

Las Vegas – UFC International Fight WeekÔ returns to Las Vegas with a pair of thrilling world championship bouts. A new UFC lightweight king will be crowned when undefeated former featherweight titleholder Ilia Topuria moves up to battle former 155-pound champ Charles Oliveira for the vacant crown. Also, UFC flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja defends against fellow The Ultimate Fighter season 24 castmate and No. 4 ranked contender Kai Kara-France.

UFC^® 317: TOPURIA vs. OLIVEIRA tickets are on sale now and are available for purchase at AXS.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

UFC^® 317 will take place Saturday, June 28 at T-Mobile Arena with the main card at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT on ESPN+ PPV. The prelims will be available on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and Disney+, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on ESPN+, UFC Fight Pass and Disney+.

Media members wishing to apply for fight week credentials may sign up here.

Men’s No. 3 pound-for-pound fighter Topuria (16-0, fighting out of Alicante, Spain) intends to become the 10^th athlete to win championships in two UFC divisions. A well-rounded competitor, he has earned memorable finishes over Max Holloway, Alexander Volkanovski and Bryce Mitchell. Topuria now looks to conquer another weight class by stopping Oliveira in emphatic fashion.

Oliveira (35-10 1NC, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) has his sights set on handing Topuria his first career loss. A decorated grappler, he holds thrilling submission wins against Justin Gaethje, Dustin Poirier and Jim Miller. Oliveira now plans to become the first two-time lightweight champion in UFC history with a show-stealing performance.

No. 10 men’s pound-for-pound fighter Pantoja (29-5, fighting out of Arraial Do Cabo, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) goes for his fourth consecutive title defense. A submission ace, he has delivered exciting finishes over Kai Asakura, Alex Perez and Matt Schnell. Pantoja hopes to continue his reign atop the 125-pound division with a standout showing.

Kara-France (25-11 1NC, fighting out of Auckland, New Zealand) is coming off a spectacular KO win against Steve Erceg last year. A heavy-handed striker, he also holds notable victories over Askar Askarov, Cody Garbrandt and Rogerio Bontorin. Kara-France now looks to dethrone Pantoja and achieve his dream of becoming UFC champion.

Additional bouts on the card include:

No. 9 ranked lightweight contender Beneil Dariush (22-6-1, fighting out of Yorba Linda, Calif.) locks horns with No. 10 Renato Moicano (20-6-1, fighting out of Brasília, Brazil)
No. 1 ranked flyweight contender Brandon Royval (17-7, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) faces No. 6 Manel Kape (21-7, fighting out of Phuket, Thailand by way of Porto, Portugal)
No. 12 ranked middleweight contender Paulo Costa (14-4, fighting out of Contagem, MG, Brazil) squares off with No. 14 Roman Kopylov (14-3, fighting out of Bachatsky, Kemerovo, Russia)
Jack Hermansson (24-8, fighting out of Oslo, Norway, by way of Uddevalla, Sweden) takes on Gregory Rodrigues (16-6, fighting out of Deerfield Beach, Fla. by way of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil ) in an intriguing middleweight tilt
Jhonata Diniz (9-1, fighting out of Curitiba, Brazil) meets Justin Tafa (7-5 1NC, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia) at heavyweight
No. 8 ranked flyweight contender Viviane Araujo (13-6, fighting out of Brasilia, DF, Brazil) clashes with No. 10 Tracy Cortez (13-2, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change.

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About UFC^® ?

About T-Mobile Arena

T-Mobile Arena, the 20,000-seat venue located on the Las Vegas Strip between Park MGM and New York-New York, opened April 6, 2016. The arena hosts more than 100 events annually including major headline entertainment, awards shows, UFC, boxing, basketball and other sporting events, family shows and special events. T-Mobile Arena also is the home of the Vegas Golden Knights, a National Hockey League expansion team and the city’s first professional sports team, as well as UFC’s exclusive Las Vegas arena destination. The venue, named the No. 1 venue on Billboard Magazine’s 2018 Arena Power List as well as the “Best New Major Concert Venue” by Pollstar Magazine in 2016, features 50 luxury suites, more than two dozen private loge boxes, complete broadcast facilities, and other specially designed exclusive hospitality offerings and fan amenities destined to create a guest experience second to none. Toshiba Plaza, an adjacent two-acre outdoor entertainment space, features performance stages, a variety of video screens and other interactive content and display areas. Designed and built to prioritize environmental sustainability, T-Mobile Arena was awarded Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design® (LEED) Gold certification by the U.S. Green Building Council in 2016. T-Mobile Arena is a privately funded joint venture between AEG and MGM Resorts International (NYSE: MGM). For more information, visit T-MobileArena.com or follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

About ESPN+

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

TOP MIDDLEWEIGHT CONTENDER ROBERT WHITTAKER TO FACE OFF AGAINST REINIER DE RIDDER AT ABU DHABI FIGHT NIGHT ON JULY 26

Abu Dhabi, UAE: UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), returns to the UAE capital with an epic middleweight fight as No.5 ranked Robert Whittaker takes on rising star Reinier de Ridder on Saturday,26 July, at Etihad Arena on Yas Island.

UFC® FIGHT NIGHT: WHITTAKER vs DE RIDDER tickets are now available via etihadarena.ae and Ticketmaster.ae.

Former champion Whittaker (27-8-0, fighting out of New South Wales, Australia) is one of the UFC’s most respected middleweights, who rose to prominence with standout victories over Yoel Romero, Jared Cannonier and Marvin Vettori. Whittaker looks to return to the win column with a dominant performance against the Dutchman.

De Ridder (20-2-0, fighting out of Breda, Netherlands) has swiftly established himself as one of UFC’s most promising middleweight contenders. Since joining the promotion in late 2024, he has showcased his elite grappling and finishing abilities. Most recently, de Ridder delivered a statement win by handing Bo Nickal his first professional loss. De Ridder is rapidly ascending the middleweight ranks and aims to continue his win streak with a win over the former champion.

Get ready for an electrifying night in the Octagon®, as global stars collide in what promises to be one of the year’s most unforgettable events.

Additional bouts on the card include:?

Nikita Krylov (30-10-0, fighting out of Kislovodsk, Russia) faces Bogdan Guskov (17-3-0 fighting out of Dukent, Uzbekistan), who is looking to continue his win streak, in a light heavyweight match-up.
Ramazan Temirov (19-3-0, fighting out of Karshi, Uzbekistan) takes on Asu Almabayev (21-3-0, fighting out of Almaty, Kazakhstan) in what promises to be a thrilling flyweight bout.
Ibo Aslan (14-2-0, fighting out of Istanbul, Turkey) will meet American Billy Elekana (7-2-0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nevada) in a light heavyweight bout that should produce fireworks.

VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that can feature premium seating, VIP access to weigh-ins, all-inclusive hospitality, meet-and-greets with UFC athletes and more. For more information, visit UFCVIP.com to view package details.

For more information on event, visit: https://visitabudhabi.ae/en/campaign/ufc-fight-night

VITOR BELFORT NAMED TO UFC® HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that former UFC light heavyweight champion and UFC^® 12 heavyweight tournament winner Vitor Belfort will be inducted into the 2025 Class of the UFC Hall of

Fame as a Pioneer. The 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place as part of the 13^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^Ô, on Thursday, June 26, at T-Mobile Arena, and will be streamed live, exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS^®.

“Vitor Belfort was 19 years when he was signed by UFC and he quickly made an impact by becoming the youngest athlete to win a UFC fight, and UFC tournament,” said UFC President & CEO Dana White. “Vitor was a pioneer of the sport and is definitely a UFC legend. It will be an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”

Belfort will enter the UFC Hall of Fame as the 20^th member of the Pioneer Era Wing. The Pioneer Era Wing includes athletes who turned professional before November 17, 2000, (when the unified rules of mixed martial arts were adopted). Other requirements include a minimum age of 35 or those who have been retired for one year or more.

A veteran of 41 fights during his 22-year MMA career, Belfort registered a record of 26-14,1 NC (20-14,1 NC – UFC / PRIDE / Strikeforce), securing victories over UFC Hall of Famers Wanderlei Silva, Randy Couture, Rich Franklin, Michael Bisping, and Dan Henderson (Fight Wing); former UFC middleweight champion Luke Rockhold, former Strikeforce light heavyweight champion Bobby Southworth, former Strikeforce welterweight champion Nate Marquardt, and former Pancrase heavyweight champion Kazuo Takahashi.

At age 19, Belfort made his professional MMA debut on October 11, 1996, by competing in SuperBrawl 2 in Hawaii. Despite a seven-inch height discrepancy and 100-pound. weight disadvantage, Belfort defeated his opponent, Jon Hess, via knockout in 12 seconds of the first round to launch his career. He immediately signed with UFC following his victory.

Belfort made his UFC debut as a heavyweight by entering the tournament of UFC^® 12: JUDGEMENT DAY, which took place on February 7, 1997, in Dothan, Alabama. He defeated his opponents, Tra Telligman and Scott Ferrozzo, both via first-round TKO, to win the heavyweight tournament.

Belfort returned to action three months later, defeating fan favorite Tank Abbott via TKO in 52 seconds during UFC^® 13: THE ULTIMATE FORCE, which took place on May 30, 1997, in Augusta, Georgia. The win helped establish Belfort as a rising star and earned him a fight against Couture at UFC 15.

UFC^® 15: COLLISION COURSE tookplace on October 17, 1997, in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi. Belfort and Couture faced off in the co-main event with the winner facing then-UFC heavyweight champion and future UFC Hall of Famer Maurice Smith at UFC Japan.

Couture would defeat Belfort via TKO eight minutes into the first round to hand him his first loss as a professional. Belfort would win his next two fights against Joe Charles and Wanderlei Silva at UFC Japan (December 21, 1997) and UFC Brazil (October 16, 1998), respectively, bringing his record to 6-1. His fight with Couture would also set the stage for two exciting rematches down the road, as both athletes would continue to ascend in popularity.

For the next three years, Belfort won four of his next five fights in PRIDE, with his only loss to future UFC Hall of Famer Kazushi Sakuraba.

Belfort returned to UFC as a light heavyweight on June 22, 2002, losing a decision to UFC Hall of Famer Chuck Liddell in the main event of UFC^® 37.5: AS REAL AS IT GETS. He would return to his winning form one year later, defeating Marvin Eastman via TKO in the first round of UFC^® 43: MELTDOWN, on June 6, 2003, in Las Vegas.

The win earned him his first title shot and a rematch against Couture in the main event of UFC 46. UFC^® 46: SUPERNATURAL took place on January 31, 2004, in Las Vegas. The highly anticipated fight was cut short due to a doctor stoppage 49 seconds into the first round, and Belfort was crowned the new UFC light heavyweight champion.

Belfort would give Couture an immediate rematch at UFC^® 49: UNFINISHED BUSINESS on August 21, 2004, in Las Vegas, where he would lose the title due to doctor stoppage in the third round. He would lose his next fight to future UFC Hall of Famer Tito Ortiz in the main event of UFC^® 51: SUPER SATURDAY on February 5, 2005, ending his second stint with UFC.

Over the next four years, he would win six of his next nine fights across numerous fight promotions, including Strikeforce and PRIDE, before returning to UFC to face Franklin in the main event of UFC^® 103: FRANKLIN vs. BELFORT. Belfort would win his return fight with a memorable KO of Franklin, re-establishing himself as a star inside the Octagon.

For the next nine years, Belfort would compete against the top contenders in the UFC middleweight and light heavyweight divisions. He would fight for both titles, losing to UFC Hall of Famer Anderson Silva and Jon Jones. He also secured unforgettable victories over Bisping, Rockhold, Henderson and Anthony Johnson during this stretch. His last victory came in 2017, as he defeated Nate Marquardt via unanimous decision at UFC^® 212: ALDO vs. HOLLOWAY, in his hometown of Rio de Janeiro. He retired after his next fight, losing via KO to former UFC light heavyweight champion Lyoto Machida during UFC^® 224: NUNES vs. PENNINGTON on May 12, 2018, in Rio.

Belfort enters the UFC Hall of Fame with an impressive resume that includes:

UFC:

Most first-round finishes in UFC history – 13

Knockouts in 90 seconds or less – 10

18 first-round finishes in 26 career wins

Outside the Octagon, Belfort is an accomplished author, having his autobiography Vitor Belfort: Lições de garra, fé e sucesso published by Thomas Nelson Brazil in 2012. In 2013, he won the Knockout of the Year for his KO of Luke Rockhold in the main event of UFC^® on FX: BELFORT vs. ROCKHOLD during the Fighters Only World MMA Awards. Belfort also spent time inside the boxing ring, winning both of his professional matches in 2006 and 2023.

A native of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, he began training in boxing and Brazilian jiu-jitsu at the age of 12. By the age of 18, he was a black belt under Carlson Gracie and had captured Brazilian National Jiu-Jitsu Championships in the absolute and heavyweight divisions. In 2001, he returned to compete in ADCC, winning the bronze medal in the absolute division. He currently lives in Florida, with his wife and children.

To view Belfort’s UFC FIGHT PASS collection please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/playlist/28686. To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFCHOFFAQ. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.

HIGH-STAKES FLYWEIGHT MATCHUP BETWEEN (#3) ERIN BLANCHFIELD AND (4) MAYCEE BARBER HEADLINES AT UFC® APEX

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a thrilling bout between top flyweights, as No. 3 ranked contender Erin Blanchfield faces off against No. 4 Maycee Barber. Also on the card, No. 7 ranked lightweight contender Mateusz Gamrot meets rising star Ludovit Klein.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: BLANCHFIELD vs. BARBER takes place Saturday, May 31 in Las Vegas and will be available on ESPN+ (English and Spanish). The prelims will air at 3 p.m. PT / 6 p.m. ET followed by the main card, also airing on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, at 6 p.m. PT / 9 p.m. ET.

UFC APEX VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that includes premium seating, all-inclusive hospitality, in-seat beverage service, meet-and-greets with UFC Octagon Girls and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information.

Blanchfield (13-2, fighting out of Elmwood Park, N.J.) looks to deliver a statement and secure her first shot at UFC gold. Still only 25 years old, Blanchfield has become one of the top contenders at 125 pounds by defeating former UFC champions Rose Namajunas and Jéssica Andrade. She now sets forth to halt Barber’s momentum and win in emphatic fashion.

Dana White’s Contender Series signee Barber (14-2, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) makes her long-awaited return to action. A staple in the flyweight division, Barber has made a name for herself by dominating formidable opponents such as Katlyn Cerminara, Amanda Ribas, and Andrea Lee. With her sights now set on Blanchfield, Barber plans to become the clear No. 1 contender.

Perennial top lightweight contender Gamrot (24-3, 1 NC, fighting out of Poznan, Poland) makes his first Octagon appearance of 2025. An elite grappler, Gamrot rose through the 155-pound ranks with impressive performances against Rafael Dos Anjos, Arman Tsarukyan and Jeremy Stephens. He now intends to make an example of Klein and turn his attention back towards the Top 5 of the division.

Klein (23-4-1, fighting out of Nove Zamky, Slovakia) intends on delivering his best performance yet to secure the biggest win of his career. A well-rounded competitor with nine wins by knockout and eight by submission, he is currently on a seven-fight unbeaten streak that includes victories over Ignacio Bahamondes, Thiago Moises and Roosevelt Roberts. Klein now aims to vault into the rankings for the first time by taking out Gamrot.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Welterweight action sees Billy Ray Goff (9-3, fighting out of Groton, Conn.) take on SeokHyeon Ko (11-2, fighting out of Seoul, South Korea)
Dustin Jacoby(20-9-1, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) meets Bruno Lopes(14-1, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) in a battle of light heavyweight veterans
Dana White’s Contender Series alumni Zachary Reese (8-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas by way of Shiner, Texas) and Duško Todorovi? (12-5, fighting out of Belgrade, Serbia) compete at middleweight
Jafel Filho(16-3, fighting out of Sento Sé, Bahia, Brazil) and Allan Nascimento(20-6, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) are set for flyweight action
Jeremiah Wells(12-4-1, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) locks horns with Andreas Gustaffson(11-2, fighting out of Västerås, Sweden) at welterweight
No. 3 ranked bantamweight contender Ketlen Vieira (14-5, fighting out of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil) collides with No. 5 Macy Chiasson (14-2, fighting out of Springfield, Ill.)
Ramiz Brahimaj(11-5, fighting out of Dallas, Texas by way of the Bronx, N.Y.) clashes with Dana White’s Contender Series signee Oban Elliott(12-2, fighting out of Merthyr Tydfil, Wales) at welterweight
Lightweights Kurt Holobaugh(22-9, 1 NC, fighting out of Amite, La.) and Jordan Leavitt (11-3, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) lock horns
MarQuel Mederos (10-1, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) aims to deliver another signature performance when he faces Bolaji Oki (9-2, fighting out of Brussels, Belgium) in a lightweight bout
Rayanne Dos Santos(14-8, fighting out of Belém, Pará, Brazil) battles Alice Ardelean(9-7, fighting out of Birmingham, England) at strawweight

For the latest information on bout announcements and additional information for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event.

###

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UFC® RETURNS TO ATLANTA WITH PIVOTAL BOUT BETWEEN WELTERWEIGHT CONTENDERS (#4) KAMARU USMAN AND (#6) JOAQUIN BUCKLEY

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Atlanta with a thrilling welterweight bout that sees former champion and current No. 4 ranked contender Kamaru Usman battle surging No. 6 Joaquin Buckley. Also, former strawweight champion and No. 6 ranked flyweight contender Rose Namajunas takes on No. 12 Miranda Maverick.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: USMAN vs. BUCKLEY takes place Sat., June 14 at State Farm Arena. The entire card will be available in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting with the prelims at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. The main card will also air on ESPN and ESPN Deportes, kicking off at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: USMAN vs. BUCKLEY tickets will go on sale Fri., May 2 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^®members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wed., April 30 at 10 a.m. ET via the website UFCFightClub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thurs., May 1 starting at 10 a.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Usman (20-4, fighting out of Denver, Colo. by way of Auchi, Nigeria) returns with the intention of delivering a statement performance. A dominant champion for over three years, he holds knockout victories over Colby Covington, Jorge Masvidal and Gilbert Burns. Usman now intends to kick off his 2025 campaign by beginning his ascent back to world title contention.

Buckley (21-6, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) plans to continue his momentum by adding a decorated former champion to his resume. A dynamic striker and KO artist, he has earned thrilling finishes against Colby Covington, Stephen Thompson and Vicente Luque. Buckley now hopes to secure his seventh consecutive win to stake his claim for a championship opportunity.

Namajunas (14-7, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) intends to deliver a highlight-reel finish in her first outing of 2025. A two-time former world champion, she has netted spectacular victories over Zhang Weili, Joanna Jedrzejczyk and Jessica Andrade. Namajunas now has her sights set on defending her spot in the rankings by turning away another rising contender.

Maverick (17-5, fighting out of Denver, Colo. by way of Buffalo, Mo.) plans to extend her win streak by taking out her first former UFC titleholder. Victorious in her last four Octagon appearances, she holds notable wins against Andrea Lee, Priscila Cachoeira and Gillian Robertson. Maverick now looks to turn heads by finishing Namajunas to continue her climb up the flyweight rankings.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Michael Chiesa (20-7, fighting out of Spokane Valley, Wash.) takes on Court McGee (23-13, fighting out of Orem, Utah) in a clash of welterweight veterans
Undefeated Mansur Abdul-Malik (8-0, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) looks to keep his 100 percent finish rate intact when he meets gritty Cody Brundage (11-6 1NC, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.) at middleweight
Tereza Bleda (7-1, fighting out of Prague, Czech Republic) faces Jamey-Lyn Horth (7-2, fighting out of Squamish, B.C., Canada) in a flyweight tilt
Edmen Shahbazyan (14-5, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) squares off with Andre Petroski (13-4, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) at middleweight
Georgia’s own Cody Durden (17-7-1, fighting out of Covington, Ga.) locks horns with Jose Ochoa (7-1 1NC, fighting out of Moyobamba, Peru) in a flyweight bout
No. 14 ranked light heavyweight contender Alonzo Menifield (16-5-1, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) collides with undefeated Oumar Sy (11-0, fighting out of Paris, France)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit UFC.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for credentials to the event.

###

About UFC^®

About State Farm Arena

Home to the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks, the award-winning State Farm Arena is a next-generation sports and live entertainment venue focused on experience, sustainability, and service. Inspired by the city, State Farm Arena showcases the core values of the organization: inclusiveness, authenticity, and innovation. From the first ever in-arena barbershop with the Killer Mike SWAG Shop to the Hawk Bar on the court behind the basket to the concourse to the Topgolf Swing Suites, State Farm Arena is True to Atlanta. Community and sustainability are at the core as the arena hosts the largest annual food distribution event with the Million Meal Pack and the arena was also the first venue in the world to earn TRUE (Total Resource Use and Efficiency) Platinum certification for zero waste. State Farm Arena was recently named Best Venue by Front Office Sports, a leading multi-platform media and news organization, and consistently ranks among the top 10 concert and event venues in the world from industry-leading publications Pollstar and Billboard. Accessible to every fan with a MARTA station adjacent, the downtown Atlanta arena hosts approximately 175 events and close to 2 million guests annually and stakes its claim as the city’s best sports and live entertainment venue. For more information on State Farm Arena, visit StateFarmArena.com or follow on X @StateFarmArena and Instagram @StateFarmArena.

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ALL-ACTION WELTERWEIGHTS (#8) GILBERT BURNS AND (#12) MICHAEL MORALES HEADLINE AT UFC® APEX

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with a thrilling bout between elite welterweights, as No. 8 Gilbert Burns faces off against undefeated No. 12 ranked contender Michael Morales. In addition, an entertaining light heavyweight bout will see Paul Craig lock horns with Rodolfo Bellato.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: BURNS vs. MORALES takes place Saturday, May 17 in Las Vegas, Nevada and will be available on exclusively on ESPN+ (English and Spanish). The prelims will air at 1 p.m. PT / 4p.m. ET, followed by the main card airing at 4 p.m. PT / 7 p.m. ET.

Burns (22-8, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla. by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) returns to action for the first time in 2025. A decorated grappler that also wields knockout power, Burns has made a name for himself at 170-pounds by securing victories against Jorge Masvidal, Neil Magny, and Stephen Thompson. The Brazilian now sets forth to derail the Morales hype train with a statement performance.

Morales (17-0, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico by way of Pesaje, Ecuador) steps back inside the Octagon for his first UFC main event. The undefeated prospect has made a splash at welterweight by delivering emphatic finishes of Neil Magny, Jake Matthews, and Max Griffin. Morales now turns his attention towards Burns as he looks to secure the biggest win of his career and enter the Top 10 rankings.

Always entertaining, Craig (17-9-1, fighting out of Coatbridge, Scotland) returns to the light heavyweight division looking to make an immediate impact. A submission specialist, he has impressed with stoppage victories over UFC champion Magomed Ankalaev, as well as former champions “Shogun” Rua and Jamahal Hill. Craig now intends to hand Bellato his first loss in the UFC in emphatic fashion.

Dana White’s Contender Series signee Bellato (12-2-1, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) aims to deliver another bonus-earning performance. A proven finisher with 11 of his 12 wins coming before the final bell, Bellato showed he has what it takes to compete in the UFC with his debut stoppage of Ihor Potieria. He now has his sights set on adding Craig’s name to his resume.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Julian Erosa (31-12, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) and Melquizael Costa (23-7, fighting out of Bauru, São Paulo, Brazil) return to the Octagon for an all-action featherweight showdown
Featherweight standouts meet at lightweight as Sodiq Yusuff (13-4, fighting out of Bladensburg, Md. by way of Lagos, Nigeria) takes on The Ultimate Fighter season 32 winner Mairon Santos (16-1, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Duque De Caxias, Rio de Janeiro)
Lightweight veterans face off as Jared Gordon (20-7, 1NC, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.) battles Thiago Moises (19-8, fighting out of Indaiatuba, Brazil)
Gabe Green(11-4, fighting out of San Pedro, Calif) welcomes UFC newcomerMatheus Camilo (9-2, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) to the lightweight division
A middleweight contest pits Dustin Stoltzfus(16-6, fighting out of Germersheim, Germany) against Nursulton Ruziboev(35-9-2 2 NC, fighting out of Tashkent, Uzbekistan)
No. 14 ranked strawweight contender Luana Pinheiro(11-4, fighting out of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) and No. 15 Tecia Pennington(14-7, fighting out of Colorado Springs, Colo. by way of Fall River, Mass.) square off in a high-stakes matchup
Elise Reed(8-4, fighting out of Princeton, N.J.) takes on Denise Gomes(10-3, fighting out of Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil) at strawweight
Road to UFC Asia signee HyunSung Park(9-0, fighting out of Gyeonggi-do, South Korea) takes on Dana Whites Contender Series contract winner Carlos Hernandez(10-4, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.)
Bantamweights Luana Santos(8-2, fighting out of Sao Paulo, Brazil) and Tainara Lisboa(7-2, fighting out of Santos, Sao Paulo, Brazil) look to steal the show

For the latest information on bout announcements and additional information for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event.

###

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UFC® RETURNS TO PRUDENTIAL CENTER IN NEWARK, NEW JERSEY WITH BLOCKBUSER CHAMPIONSHIP DOUBLEHEADER

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Newark, N.J. with another stacked card, headlined by a pair of blockbuster championship bouts. In the main event, reigning bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili rematches with former title holder and No. 1 ranked contender Sean O’Malley. The co-main event will see women’s bantamweight champion Julianna Pena defend her newly won belt against No. 2 ranked Kayla Harrison.

UFC^®316: DVALISHVILI vs. O’MALLEY 2 takes place Saturday, June 7 at Prudential Center, with the main card available on ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT. The prelims will be available on ESPN, ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, at 8p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT. The early prelims will kick off at 6 p.m. ET/3 p.m. PT on ESPN+ and UFC Fight Pass.

UFC^®returns to Prudential Center after setting the venue’s live sporting event gate record in 2024 with UFC^® 302 headlined by Islam Makhachev vs. Dustin Poirier. UFC^®316: DVALISHVILI vs. O’MALLEY 2 will mark the eleventh UFC event at the famed arena dating back to 2007.

UFC^®316: DVALISHVILI vs. O’MALLEY 2 will go on sale this Friday, April 18 at 10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person.

“NJSEA, the city of Newark and Prudential Center continue to be great partners to us,” said Peter Dropick, Executive Vice President of Event Development and Operations, UFC. “Makhachev vs. Poirier was one of our top fights last year and set the gate record at this famed arena. We’re thrilled to be returning for the third year in a row. I know UFC 316 will be another special night.”

“New Jersey is proud to be a premium entertainment destination for visitors across the country and world,” said Governor Phil Murphy. “We are excited to welcome the UFC back to Newark, bringing an incredible experience to thousands of fans while also generating economic activity for the region.”

“Hosting UFC in Newark for the third year in a row shows that our city rises to the same level of excitement as the event’s electrifying fight card,” said Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka. “It is an honor to be selected and to welcome fans from all across the globe to deliver the perfect one-two-punch of hospitality and entertainment.”

“For the third consecutive year, Prudential Center is incredibly grateful for the opportunity to welcome our partners at UFC back to Newark,” said Tad Brown, Chief Executive Officer, Harris Blitzer Sports & Entertainment. “UFC 316 promises to be another record-breaking night as Prudential Center continues to deliver as a destination for marquee events. We look forward to hosting fans from all over the world for the next unforgettable night in New Jersey’s rich combat sports history.”

Dvalishvili (19-4, fighting out of Long Island, N.Y. by way of Tbilisi, Georgia) looks to leave no doubt that he is the best bantamweight on the planet. The first Georgian-born champion in UFC history, Dvalishvili is currently on an 11-fight win streak, the longest in UFC bantamweight history, which includes victories over Umar Nurmagomedov, Sean O’Malley and Henry Cejudo. He now intends to further etch his name into the record books with another dominant performance.

Former champion O’Malley (18-2, fighting out of Glendale, Ariz.) makes his return to the Octagon for the first time since dropping the title to Dvalishvili last September. An elite and exciting striker with the most post-fight bonuses in UFC bantamweight history (9), he has entertained fans with finishes of Aljamain Sterling, Raulian Paiva and Kris Moutinho. O’Malley now plans to regain UFC gold by taking out Dvalishvili with a vintage showing.

Pena (12-5, fighting out of Chicago, Ill.) seeks to make her second reign as bantamweight champion a historic one. The first woman to win The Ultimate Fighter, Pena holds notable wins over former UFC champions Amanda Nunes, Raquel Pennington and Nicco Montano. She now looks to make her biggest statement yet by handing Harrison her first loss in the UFC.

A two-time Olympic gold medalist in Judo for the United States, Harrison (18-1, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) has her sights set on adding UFC gold to her impressive resume. In her short time as part of the UFC roster, Harrison has already earned impressive wins over former champion Holly Holm and Ketlen Vieira. She now intends to start off her 2025 campaign with a title-winning effort.

Current bouts also on the card include:

No. 7 ranked bantamweight contender Marlon Vera (23-10-1, fighting out of Chone, Manabi, Ecuador) looks to halt the momentum of No. 10 Mario Bautista (15-2, fighting out of Phoenix, Ariz.)
Thrilling welterweight actions pits No. 14 ranked contender Vicente Luque (23-10-1, fighting out of Brasilia, Brazil) against Kevin Holland (27-13, 1NC, fighting out of Fort Worth, Texas)
An exciting flyweight bout pits No. 12 ranked contender Bruno Silva (14-6-2 1NC, fighting out of Piracicaba, Sao Paulo, Brazil) against No. 14 Joshua Van (14-2, fighting out of Houston, Texas)
Light heavyweight action sees No. 10 ranked contender Johnny Walker (21-9 1NC, fighting out of Dublin, Ireland by way of Rio das Ostras, Brazil) take on undefeated No. 12 ranked Azamat Murzakanov (14-0, fighting out of Fairfield, N.J. by way of Nalchik, Russia)
No. 14 ranked flyweight contender Ariane da Silva (17-10, fighting out of Curitiba, Parana, Brazil) aims to defend her spot in the rankings against Wang Cong (7-1, fighting out of Shanghai, China)

For the latest information on bout announcements and additional information for this event, please visit UFC.com. All bouts are subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event.

###

About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 228 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world, while broadcasting to over 900 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS^®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is owned by global entertainment, sports and content company Endeavor, and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC, Twitter, Snapchat, Instagram and TikTok: @UFC.

About Prudential Center

Prudential Center is the world-class sports and entertainment venue located in downtown Newark, New Jersey. Opened in October 2007, the state-of-the-art arena is the home of the National Hockey League’s (NHL) three-time Stanley Cup Champion New Jersey Devils, Seton Hall University’s NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball program, and more than 210 concerts, family shows and special events each year. Ranked in the Top 5 worldwide by Pollstar, Billboard and Venues Today, Prudential Center is recognized as one of the premier venues in the United States, and hosts over 2 million guests annually. For more information about Prudential Center, visit https://www.prucenter.com/ and follow the arena on Facebook, X and Instagram @PruCenter. Prudential Center is a HBSE property.

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AMANDA NUNES NAMED TO UFC® HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that former UFC bantamweight and featherweight champion Amanda Nunes will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Modern Wing as a member of the Class of 2025. Nunes will enter the Hall of Fame as the third female inductee in UFC history.

The 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place as part of the 13^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^Ô, on Thursday, June 26, at T-Mobile Arena, and will be streamed live, exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS^®.

“Amanda Nunes is the greatest female fighter of all-time,” said UFC President & CEO Dana White. “Amanda was a great champion who had one of the most legendary careers in combat sports history. She is an incredible person, and it will be an honor to induct her into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”

Nunes will enter the UFC Hall of Fame as the 15^th member of the Modern Wing. The Modern Era category includes athletes who turned pro on or after November 17, 2000, when the first UFC event under the unified rules of MMA was held. Other requirements include a minimum age of 35 or those who have been retired for one year or more.
A veteran of 28 fights during her 15-year professional MMA career, Nunes compiled a record of 23-5 (17-3 UFC / Strikeforce), securing victories over UFC Hall of Famer Ronda Rousey, UFC flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko (twice), UFC bantamweight champion Julianna Pena, former UFC featherweight champions Germaine de Randamie (twice) and Cris Cyborg, and former UFC bantamweight champions Miesha Tate, Holly Holm, and Raquel Pennington.

Nunes made her professional MMA debut on March 8, 2008, losing her first fight via armbar submission in the first round. She would bounce back by winning her next six fights, including her Strikeforce debut, with a KO in 14 seconds against Julia Budd to improve her record to 6-1. In 2013, Nunes signed with UFC.

Nunes made her UFC debut on the FX prelims of UFC^® 163: ALDO vs. KOREAN ZOMBIE, which took place on August 3, 2013, at HSBC Arena in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. She defeated Sheila Gaff via first-round TKO to launch her UFC career.

Nunes returned to the Octagon^® three months later in November to face Germaine de Randamie on the FS1 prelims of UFC^®: FIGHT FOR THE TROOPS 3, which took place on November 6, 2013, at Fort Campbell in Kentucky. She defeated Germaine via first-round TKO, earning a chance to meet undefeated bantamweight Cat Zingano. After winning the first round, Nunes would lose via TKO in the third, marking her first loss inside the Octagon.

Nunes would win her next 12 fights over six years (March 21, 2015 – March 6, 2021), capturing or defending her title nine times and cleaning out the bantamweight and featherweight divisions in the process. Eight of her 12 fights were won by KO or submission.

Nunes faced number one-ranked Julianna Pena in the co-main event of UFC^® 296: OLIVEIRA vs. POIRIER, which took place on December 11, 2021, at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. Pena would stun the world with her second-round submission of Nunes via rear-naked choke, handing her the fifth, and last loss of her career.

Nunes earned an immediate rematch against Pena, meeting seven months later in the main event of UFC^® 277: PENA vs. NUNES 2, which took place on July 30, 2022, at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. She would reclaim the bantamweight title with a convincing unanimous decision victory.

Nunes retired on June 10, 2023, after defeating Irene Aldana via unanimous decision, defending the bantamweight title in the main event of UFC^® 289: NUNES vs. ALDANA.

Nunes enters the UFC Hall of Fame with an impressive resume that includes:

UFC:

First woman to become a two-division champion and hold both UFC bantamweight and featherweight titles simultaneously.

Longest winning streak in UFC women’s history – 12

Most title fight wins in UFC women’s history – 11 (T-4^th most in UFC history)

Most finishes in UFC women’s history – 10

Most first-round finishes in UFC women’s history – 9

Most knockdowns in UFC women’s history – 8

Most knockouts in UFC women’s history – 7

Second-most wins in UFC women’s history – 16 (Jessica Andrade, 17)

Outside the Octagon, Nunes has been honored with several awards throughout her career, receiving Female Fighter of the Year in by MMA Junkie in2018 and 2019, and by the Fighters Only World MMA Awards in 2016, 2018 and 2019.

A native of Pojuca, Bahia, Brazil, Nunes began competing in karate, boxing, and capoeira at the age of seven. At 16, she began training in judo and Brazilian jiu-jitsu. With a brown belt in judo and black belt in jiu-jitsu, she captured several medals as an amateur, including gold medals at the 2008 Pan American Jiu-Jitsu Championship and 2009 World Jiu-Jitsu Championship. In 2012, Nunes became a World Champion of the North American Grappling Association in the lightweight and absolute divisions. She currently resides in Florida, with her wife, former UFC fighter Nina, and their two children.

To view Nunes’ UFC FIGHT PASS collection please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/playlist/28685

To see a complete list of UFC athletes and fights enshrined in the UFC Hall of Fame, as well as details regarding the UFC Hall of Fame format, please visit UFCHOFFAQ. For additional information, please visit UFC.com.

UFC HOSTS FIRST-EVER EVENT IN AZERBAIJAN ON JUNE 21 WITH BLOCKBUSTER LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT BETWEEN JAMAHAL HILL AND KHALIL ROUNTREE JR

Baku, Azerbaijan: UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation, in partnership with the Ministry of Youth and Sports of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Baku City Circuit (BCC) Operations Company, today announced UFC’s debut event in Baku, Azerbaijan on Saturday, June 21 at the Baku Crystal Hall. An epic main event sees former UFC light heavyweight champion and No. 4-ranked contender Jamahal Hill take on No. 7-ranked Khalil Rountree Jr.

Tickets for UFC FIGHT NIGHT^Ò: HILL vs. ROUNDTREE JR will go on sale at 10 a.m. AZT on Friday, April 25, via iTicket. Fight Club members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets early at 10 a.m. AZT on Wednesday, April 23, whilst those who registered their interest early in this event will gain access at 10 a.m. AZT on Thursday, April 24.

The partnership was announced at a signing ceremony with UFC President and CEO Dana White, and Minister of Youth and Sports Azerbaijan Farid Gayibov in Miami ahead of UFC 314: VOLKANOVSKI vs. LOPES this Saturday.

“Azerbaijan and the city of Baku have an incredible history of hosting massive global sporting events,” said UFC President and CEO Dana White. “We have so many great athletes from in and around this country that it was a natural next destination for us. I’m excited to have our debut event there on June 21.”

Minister of Youth and Sports of Azerbaijan Farid Gayibov emphasized the significance of the event in advancing Azerbaijan’s role in the international sports community while stating, “Hosting UFC in Baku marks another significant milestone in our efforts to develop Azerbaijan as a regional sports leader. Thanks to President Ilham Aliyev’s unwavering support and attention, along with his successful sports policy, Azerbaijan has gained international recognition in the world of sports — and the city of Baku has established itself as a key hub for major global sporting events. This partnership with UFC further strengthens our reputation as a global sports hub, showcasing our commitment to sports development and international cooperation”.

Maqsud Farzullaev, General Director of Baku City Circuit Operations Company, added, “After our successful collaboration with Formula 1, partnering with UFC is an extraordinary next step for Baku. This event will not only highlight the city’s world-class facilities but also elevate Azerbaijan’s prominence on the global sporting stage. We are proud to contribute to the growth of UFC and combat sports in the region, further solidifying Baku as a go-to destination for major international sports.”

Former champion Hill (12-3 1NC, fighting out of Michigan, United States) aims to make a quick return to the Octagon® for his second bout of 2025. The first Dana White’s Contender Series alum to become an undisputed UFC champion, he earned his way to the title with wins over Thiago Santos, Johnny Walker and Jimmy Crute. Hill now plans to make a statement against Rountree Jr. and turn his attention to the championship picture.

Rountree Jr. (14-6 1NC, fighting out of Nevada, United States) competes for the first time since his valiant Fight of the Night effort against Alex Pereira at UFC® 307 last October. A devastating striker with 9 of his 13 wins coming by way of KO, Rountree Jr. has entertained fans with his victories over Chris Daukaus, Karl Roberson and Modestas Bukauskas. He now looks to take Hill’s spot in the top five with another signature performance.

Also featuring on this stacked card will be the highly anticipated return of Kyoji Horiguchi (34-5, fighting out of Florida, United States, by way of Gunma, Japan) as he aims to become the first ever Japanese UFC champion. Standing in his way will be No.10-ranked flyweight Tagir Ulanbekov (16-2, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) who is training under former UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov and also has his eyes on the top of the flyweight division.

Expect fireworks as heavyweights collide with No.5 ranked Curtis Blaydes (18-5, fighting out of Chicago, United States) taking on Dana White’s Contender Series stand out Rizvan Kuniev (13-2-1, fighting out of Dagestan, Russia) who will be looking to make a statement in his Octagon debut.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Ismail Naurdiev (24-7, fighting out of Rabat, Morocco) will take on Junyong Park (18-6, fighting out of Seoul, South Korea) in a middleweight match up.
Hamdy Abdelwahab (6-0, fighting out of New York, United States by way of Cairo, Egypt) takes on Mohammed Usman (10-4, fighting out of Texas, United States) in a heavyweight bout.
In a bantamweight bout Irina Alekseeva (5-2, fighting out of Chelyabinsk, Russia) faces Klaudia Sygula (6-2, fighting out of Lodz, Poland).
Daria Zhelezniakova (9-2, fighting out of Paris, France by way of Saint Petersburg, Russia) meets Melissa Mullins (7-1, fighting out of Coventry, England) in a bantamweight bout.

Azerbaijani athletes are rapidly emerging as a formidable presence in UFC, showcasing world-class wrestling, striking and grit. Fighters like Rafael Fiziev have delivered dominant performances against elite opponents, including former lightweight champion Rafael dos Anjos and King Green.

With UFC’s history of sellout events, fans are advised to register their interest early at ufc.com/Baku to secure their seats for this highly anticipated event and to follow @UFCEurasia on social media for the latest updates.

– ENDS –

About UFC®

UFC® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and approximately 300 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 950 million households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 70 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

BKFC-70 BRINGS OUT THE STARS IN HISTORIC THURSDAY NIGHT EVENT AT SOLD OUT HARD ROCK LIVE AND BROADCAST GLOBALLY ON DAZN

Hollywood, FL (March 27, 2025) The stars were out in full force at Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship 70 on Thursday night — both inside the world-famous squared circle and ringside at the sold-out Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL, broadcast globally on DAZN.

Celebrities in attendance included BKFC Partner Conor McGregor, as well as fellow UFC superstars Amanda Nunes, Andrei Arlovski, and Rashad Evans. Also in attendance was basketball icon Shaquille O’Neal, streaming superstar Adin Ross, music superstar Lil Pump and Dion Dawkins, starting left tackle of the NFL’s Buffalo Bills.

In the highly anticipated BKFC-70 main event, the legendary Luis “Baboon” Palomino added to his one-of-a-kind resume by winning the inaugural BKFC King of the Streets Championship with a hard-fought, unanimous decision victory over Howard “HD” Davis.

Two judges scored the action-packed contest 49-46, while one had it 48-47, all in favor of Palomino, who previously held the BKFC Lightweight World Championship and the BKFC Welterweight World Championship. Palomino is now 10-1 in his BKFC career.

The Peruvian-born Miami, FL fighter brought the jam-packed Hard Rock Live to a fever pitch when he called out current BKFC Lightweight World Champion Franco “El Rey de la Calle” Tenaglia in his post-fight interview.

“You did a great job claiming the throne. I’m proud of the job you did against Tony Soto, the only fighter I didn’t face before I moved up. But the truth of the matter is I’m 9-0 in this weight class, six-time defending World Champion. I’m daddy. These are my children. Come see me. You’ll see who the real Champion is.”

Davis, who represents Broward County, FL, is now 7-3-1 under the BKFC banner.

In the BKFC-70 co-main event, undefeated heavyweight sensation Leonardo “El Zambo” Perdomo needed just 13 seconds to steamroll former World Boxing Association champion Steve “Centurion” Herelius — good for the second fastest finish in the history of the BKFC heavyweight division.

Perdomo is now 7-0, with all of his victories coming by first-round finish. The fearsome Cuban-born Miami heavyweight attraction entered fight night as the #3 ranked contender in the fully loaded BKFC heavyweight division.

Perdomo had a simple message for undefeated BKFC Heavyweight World Champion “Big” Ben Rothwell — “Are you ready?”

The France-born Miami based fighter Herelius is now 1-2 in his BKFC career.

(Anthony “Lionheart” Garrett holds the record for the fastest finish in the history of the BKFC heavyweight division with his 12-second stoppage victory over Lavar Johnson at BKFC Fight Night: Los Angeles in November.)

Fighting in the BKFC-70 feature fight, Boca Raton, FL’s Justin “Joy Boy” Ibarrola cruised to 7-0 with a second-round knockout over Abdiel “The Nightmare” Velazquez in their action-packed bantamweight battle. Time of the stoppage was 1:27 into the second frame. Ibarrola logged a pair of knockdowns in the fight. The Puerto Rican-born, Spring Hill, FL product Velazquez is now 4-5 in his bare-knuckle fighting career.

Ibarrola, who entered fight night as the #1 ranked contender in the stacked BKFC bantamweight division, brushed aside the current BKFC Bantamweight World Champion Alberto “El Indio” Blas and declared himself as the top dog at 135 pounds in his post-fight interview.

“I’m the real (expletive) champion of this bantamweight division. I’m the most active fighter on the roster,” a fired-up Ibarrola told the sold-out Hard Rock. “I’m the first bantamweight to go 7-0. I’m undefeated. The real champ.”

Below are some highlights from BKFC Founder and President David Feldman and Conor McGregor at the post-event press conference with the media in attendance at Hard Rock Live.

Said Feldman: “I’m very, very happy about the result we had tonight. We sold out this venue for a record breaking tenth straight time. Perdomo wins knockout of the night again, the bare-knuckle Mike Tyson. He’s a new era in heavyweight combat sports.”

“Fight of the Night was the main event, with tremendous performances by Luis Palomino and Howard Davis.”

“This is as real as it gets”, stated McGregor. “This is the real game right here. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. Nothing in combat sports comes close. BKFC is on top. We’re on the rise. We’ve gone global. But make no mistake; Hollywood, FL is our home, and it’s always great to be here on Thursday night.”

Fighter Awards for BKFC-70

Knockout of the Night: Leonardo Perdomo

Performance Bonuses: Justin Ibarrola and Peter Peraza

Fight of the Night: Luis Palomino vs. Howard Davis

Livonia, MI’s Justin “The Nightmare” Street earned his second BKFC victory with a technical knockout over the previously unbeaten Matt “Rambo” Russo in their bantamweight showdown. The doctor called a stop to the bout at the conclusion of the second round. Street is now 2-2 in the squared circle. The Broward County, FL product Russo is now 2-1.

Unbeaten Miami cruiserweight Julio “The Cuban Horse” Perez upped his BKFC record to 3-0 with a second-round stoppage over Lewis “Sweet Lew” Glover. Perez recorded a pair of knockdowns before the bout was stopped 1:15 into the second frame. Glover, who hails from Savannah, GA, is now 1-1.

Nicaraguan-born Miami featherweight Edgard “The Dream Killer” Plazaola smashed his way to 5-0 with a five-knockdown victory over former BKFC Featherweight World Title challenger Louie “El Loco” Lopez. The fight was stopped with 17 seconds left in the third round. The Missoula, MT-based Lopez is now 4-5.

Charleston, SC’s Roberto “El Gallo Negro” Armas scored his fifth BKFC victory with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over the previously undefeated Chris “Dynamite” Garcia in their highly entertaining bantamweight matchup. Two judges scored the fight 50-45 while one had it 48-47, all in favor of Armas, who was entering the BKFC ring for the ninth time. Garcia, who represents Clewiston, FL and entered the bout as the #4 ranked contender in the bantamweight division, is now 4-1.

Miami’s Peter “D2G” Peraza earned his second straight win and improved to 3-1 with a jaw-dropping knockout of Kaine Tomlinson Jr., in the third round of their action-packed welterweight matchup. Peraza sent Tomlinson Jr., to the canvas three times before the fight was stopped 37 seconds into the third frame. The Roanoke, VA-based Tomlinson Jr., is now 2-2.

Unbeaten Miami bantamweight AJ “The Biggest” Rodriguez improved to 3-0 with a third-round stoppage of Corey “Pitbull” Roberts. Time of the stoppage was 1:39 in the third stanza. The Omaha, NE product Roberts is now 1-2.

Ardmore, AL’s Bear “The Last Barbarian” Hill was victorious in his BKFC debut, stopping Nicholas “Chet Chino” Blume via technical knockout in their heavyweight matchup. Hill scored a knockdown in the second round before the ringside doctor called a halt to the bout at the conclusion of the third frame. Blume, who hails from Broward County, FL, is now 0-2.

Fort Myers, FL flyweight Jancarlos “Baby Hulk” Rivera turned heads in his BKFC debut with a unanimous decision victory over Albert “Trill Flight” Inclan. Two judges scored the contest 50-45 and one had it 49-46, all in favor of Rivera. Inclan, who represents Phoenix, AZ, moves to 1-4.

BKFC-70 Results

Luis Palomino def. Howard Davis via Unanimous Decision (49-46×2, 48-47)

Palomino wins inaugural BKFC King of the Streets Championship

Leonardo Perdomo def. Steve Herelius via KO in Round 1 (0:13)

Justin Ibarrola def. Abdiel Velazquez via KO in Round 2 (1:27)

Justin Street def. Matt Russo via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)

Julio Perez def. Lewis Glover via TKO in Round 2 (1:15)

Edgard Plazaola def. Louie Lopez via TKO in Round 3 (1:43)

Roberto Armas def. Chris Garcia via Unanimous Decision (50-45×2, 48-47)

Peter Peraza def. Kaine Tomlinson Jr. via KO in Round 3 (0:37)

AJ Rodriguez def. Corey Roberts via TKO in Round 3 (1:39)

Bear Hill def. Nicholas Blume via TKO in Round 3 (2:00)

Jancarlos Rivera def. Albert Inclan via Unanimous Decision (50-45×2, 49-46)

BKFC -70 HOLLYWOOD, FLORIDA / LIVE ON DAZN WEIGH-IN RESULT

Weigh-In Results

Luis Palomino, 156lbs. vs. Howard Davis, 153.2lbs.

Leonardo Perdomo, 256.4 vs. Steve Herelius, 237

Justin Ibarrola, 135.8 vs. Abdiel Velazquez, 133.8

Matt ‘Rambo’ Russo, 135.2 vs. Justin Street, 136.4

Julio Perez Rodriguez, 203.6 vs. Lewis Glover, 204.2

Edgard Plazaola, 145.8 vs. Louie Lopez, 146

Chris Garcia, 135.4 vs. Roberto Armas, 135.8

Peter Peraza, 163.4 vs. Kaine Tomlinson Jr., 165.2
Armando Rodriguez, 134 vs. Corey Roberts, 134.8

Chet Blume, 263.2 vs. Bear Hill, 267.2

Jancarlos Rivera, 126 vs. Albert Inclan, 126.2

Venue

Hard Rock Live

Hollywood, FL

BKFC FIGHT NIGHT PHILLY WEIGH-IN RESULTS

Weigh-In Results

Dustin Pague, 163.9lbs. vs. Andrew Angelcor, 164.1

Cory Vidal, 185.4 vs. Brandon Conley, 184.5

John Garbarino, 175.4. vs. Rayne Wells, 175.4

Travis Thompson, 136 vs. AJ Craig, 135.7

Maurice Horne, 185.1 vs. Adam De Freitas, 183

Lex Ludlow, 218.6 vs. Connor McKenna, 248.7

Dalvin Blair, 160.6 vs. Justin Walters, 169

Elijah Harris, 145.8 vs. Brandon Honsvick, 146

Pat Carroll, 250 vs. Mike Furnier, 264.1

Anthony Pagan, 154.9 vs. Colin Reeser, 153.6

Venue

2300 Arena

Philadelphia, PA

UFC RETURNS TO ABU DHABI FOR A THRILLING FIGHT NIGHT ON JULY 26

Abu Dhabi, UAE: UFC, the world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), is excited to announce the return of UFC to Abu Dhabi on Saturday,26^th July, at the Etihad Arena.

UFC® FIGHT NIGHT ABU DHABI tickets will go on sale soon, so fans are encouraged to register their interest early for the best chance to secure tickets via VisitAbuDhabi.

UFC returns to Abu Dhabi following two spectacular events in 2024. In October, UFC® 308: TOPURIA vs. HOLLOWAY featured Spain’s Ilia Topuria defending his featherweight title with a stunning third-round knockout over top contender Max Holloway. In August, fans were treated to an elite bantamweight showdown at UFC® FIGHT NIGHT: SANDHAGEN vs. NURMAGOMEDOV, where Umar Nurmagomedov secured a hard-fought victory over Cory Sandhagen with a five-round decision.

With 20 events held in the emirate since 2010, UFC has become a mainstay in the region’s sports and entertainment calendar. Through its long-term partnership with DCT Abu Dhabi, UFC continues to bring exciting fight cards featuring top global talents to the UAE capital. With a passionate fan base and state-of-the-art venues, Abu Dhabi has become a global sports hub for major events.

Stay tuned for details on the upcoming fight card, as UFC prepares for an unforgettable line-up of bouts. Some of UFC’s most talented athletes will enter the Octagon® for another action-packed night on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island.

VIP Experience packages will soon be available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that can feature premium seating, VIP access to weigh-ins, all-inclusive hospitality, meet-and-greets with UFC athletes and more. For additional information, please visit?UFCVIP.com?to view package details.

For further information on UFC® FIGHT NIGHT ABU DHABI and the latest updates, please visit VisitAbuDhaibi.ae.

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) Hits the Ice with ICE WARS Partnership to Expand Combat Sports Dominance

Mt. Pleasant, MI (March 19, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC),The World Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, continues its explosive expansion beyond the traditional ring by acquiring a stake in Ice Wars, an innovative combat sport founded by BKFC Executive Charlie Nama, that pits fighters from around the world against each other on a sheet of ice.

This groundbreaking partnership brings together two fiercely competitive disciplines – Combat Sports and Ice Hockey – to form BKFC Ice Wars, a thrilling new league that combines the best of both worlds. As demand for high-adrenaline, innovative fighting formats continues to grow worldwide, BKFC Ice Wars will deliver a unique and electrifying spectacle that pushes the boundaries of traditional competition.

BKFC Ice Wars will be helmed by Nama and will host its first ever event, “Battle of the Borders”, a showdown between U.S. and Canadian ice warriors on Saturday, June 14, 2025 at the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort in Mt. Pleasant, Michigan. The inaugural event is slated to showcase twelve head-to-head bouts and feature twenty-four elite fighters from the United States and Canada who will battle in “The Ice Box,” a 900-square foot ice enclosure designed specifically for ice fighting. Matchups for this can’t miss event will be announced shortly. Ticket information is available at BKFCIW.com. The Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort is located at 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd., Mt Pleasant, MI 48858.

“We’ve been watching what the team at Ice Wars has been building, and it’s been incredible to see the passionate response they’ve received from audiences,” said David Feldman, Founder and President of BKFC. “Their vision and energy align perfectly with what we do at BKFC—bringing raw, high-adrenaline combat sports to fans in a way they’ve never seen before. Partnering with them to create BKFC Ice Wars was an easy decision, and we’re excited to take this to the next level together.”

“Partnering with BKFC is a game-changer for Ice Wars,” said BKFC Ice Wars CEO Charlie Nama. “BKFC’s backing gives us the platform and resources to bring our sport to the world stage, creating a new frontier in combat sports. This isn’t just a partnership – it’s the fusion of two high-energy, no-holds-barred fight disciplines into one powerhouse league. Our first event is just the beginning, and we’re building something that will redefine international prizefighting competition and entertainment.”

BKFC Ice Wars plans to host at least six events in 2025 (with the second event slated for June 28, 2025 at River Cree Casino & Resort in Enoch, Alberta, Canada) and as many as twenty-four events in 2026. BKFC Ice Wars events will follow BKFC’s proven distribution model and be available to audiences initially everywhere via streaming services with detailed announcements to follow.

Below are the rules and regulations for fighters in BKFC Ice Wars;

– Length and amount of rounds –

Each bout shall be at least three (3) rounds with a maximum of five (5) rounds. Each round shall be no more than ninety (90) seconds in length, with one (1) minute rest periods between rounds.

– 2 referees – one of which acts as lead referee and sole arbiter

– 3 judges – if the fight goes the distance, the bout will be scored in its entirety (not round by round).

– Scoring Criteria – Judges shall evaluate the bout based on effective striking (Plan A), effective aggressiveness (Plan B), and control of the fighting area (Plan C). Plans B and C are only taken into consideration if Plan A is weighed as being even. Effective striking is judged by determining the impact/effect of legal strikes landed by a fighter solely based on the results of such legal strikes. Effective aggressiveness means aggressively making attempts to finish the fight. Fighting area control is assessed by determining who is dictating the pace, place and position of the bout.

– Weight Classes –

Heavyweight (over 200 lbs.)

Cruiserweight (175 to 200 lbs.)

Middleweight (150 to 175 lbs.)

Lightweight (under 150 lbs.)

Equipment –

Four ounce mma gloves are worn, fighters are wearing traditional hockey jerseys and equipment

BANTAMWEIGHT BLOCKBUSTER BETWEEN (#4) CORY SANDHAGEN AND (#5) DEIVESON FIGUEIREDO HEADLINES FIRST UFC® EVENT IN DES MOINES

Las Vegas – UFC^® delivers its first event in Des Moines, Iowa, headlined by a pivotal bantamweight bout that will see No. 4 ranked contender Cory Sandhagen collide with No. 5 Deiveson Figueiredo. The co-main event will see No. 13 ranked middleweight contender Reinier De Ridder square off with undefeated Bo Nickal.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: SANDHAGEN vs. FIGUEIREDO takes place Sat., May 3 at Wells Fargo Arena. The entire card will be available on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast on ESPN+ in English and Spanish, starting with the prelims at 7 p.m. ET / 4 p.m. PT. The main card will then kick off at 10 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. PT.

UFC^® FIGHT NIGHT: SANDHAGEN vs. FIGUEIREDO tickets will go on sale Fri., March 21 at 10 a.m. CT and are available for purchase at Hy-VeeTix.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^®members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wed., March 19 at 10 a.m. CT via the website UFCFightClub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thurs., March 20 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Sandhagen (17-5, fighting out of Aurora, Colo.) plans to kick off his 2025 campaign with another highlight-reel performance. A dynamic striker who has won three of his last four, he has delivered thrilling stoppages of Frankie Edgar, Marlon Moraes and Song Yadong. Sandhagen now intends to defend his spot in the rankings by taking out Figueiredo.

Former UFC flyweight champion Figueiredo (24-4-1, fighting out of Soure, Pará, Brazil) looks to stake his claim for a bantamweight title shot. A dangerous finisher, he has secured exciting submission victories over Cody Garbrandt, Alex Perez and Joseph Benavidez. Figueiredo now hopes to become the first fighter to knock out Sandhagen and continue his ascent up the 135-pound ladder.

De Ridder (19-2, fighting out of Breda, Netherlands) looks to continue his hot streak and cement his status as a title threat. A former champion outside the UFC, he has earned memorable wins against Kevin Holland and Gerald Meerschaert since joining the world’s premier MMA promotion last year. De Ridder is now determined to hand Nickal his first career loss.

The surging Nickal (7-0, fighting out of State College, Penn.) plans to continue his winning ways with a dominant performance. A three-time NCAA Division I wrestling champion, he has earned notable victories over Paul Craig, Cody Brundage and Jamie Pickett. Nickal now has his sights set on earning the biggest win of his career to crack the middleweight Top 15.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Jeremy Stephens (29-21 1NC, fighting out of San Diego, Calif.) returns to the Octagon against Mason Jones (11-2 1NC, fighting out of Blaenavon, Wales)
No. 15 ranked bantamweight contender Montel Jackson (15-2, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) takes on unbeaten Daniel Marcos (17-0 1NC, fighting out of Boca Raton, Fla. by way of Lima, Peru)
Thomas Petersen (9-3, fighting out of Webster, Minn.) locks horns with Don’Tale Mayes (11-8 1NC, fighting out of Louisville, Ken.) at heavyweight
Ryan Loder (8-1, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) meets Azamat Bekoev (19-3, fighting out of Vladikavkaz, Russia) in a middleweight bout
Junior Tafa (6-3, fighting out of Brisbane, Australia) faces Tuco Tokkos (10-5, fighting out of Deerfield Beach, Fla. by way of London, England) at light heavyweight
No. 9 ranked strawweight contender Marina Rodriguez (17-5-2, fighting out of Florianópolis, Santa Catarina, Brazil) battles No. 12 Gillian Robertson (15-8, fighting out of Port St. Lucie, Fla. by way of Niagara Falls, Canada)
No. 10 ranked bantamweight contender Yana Santos (15-8 1NC, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Saint Petersburg, Russia) takes on former champion and current No. 11 Miesha Tate (20-9, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.)
Santiago Ponzinibbio (31-8, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla.) meets Daniel Rodriguez (18-5, fighting out of Alhambra, Calif.) in an exciting welterweight tilt
Trevor Peek (9-3 1NC, fighting out of Denver, Colo. by way of Scottsboro, Ala.) meets JeongYeong Lee (11-2, fighting out of Daegu, South Korea) at featherweight
Cameron Smotherman (12-4, fighting out of Houston, Texas) faces Dana White’s Contender Series signee Serhiy Sidey (11-2, fighting out of Burlington, Ontario, Canada) in a bantamweight bout

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit UFC.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for credentials to the event.

###

About UFC^®

About Wells Fargo Arena

Wells Fargo Arena, located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, Iowa, is a premier entertainment and event venue and part of the Iowa Events Center. With a seating capacity of over 17,000, the arena hosts a diverse range of events, including concerts, family shows, sporting events, conventions, and more. As a key destination in the Midwest, Wells Fargo Arena is known for its state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch amenities, and its ability to deliver world-class experiences to both fans and event organizers. The venue is a part of the Iowa Events Center and is owned by Polk County and professionally managed by Oak View Group, which is committed to bringing the best in live entertainment to central Iowa.

About ESPN+

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus

About ESPN

BKFC HEADS BACK TO SALT LAKE CITY ON SATURDAY, MAY 10 – LIVE ON DAZN MIKE RICHMAN DEFENDS LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT WORLD TITLE VS. JOSH DYER

Salt Lake City, UT (March 17, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, returns to the Maverik Center in Salt Lake City, Utah on Saturday, May 10, broadcast globally on DAZN. Headlining BKFC on DAZN: Salt Lake City, Mike ‘The Marine’ Richman, (7-2), will defend his BKFC Light Heavyweight World Title against #4 Ranked Challenger Josh ‘D Day’ Dyer, (4-1), in a must-see clash of bare knuckle combatants.

Tickets start at $50 and fans can sign-up for an exclusive pre-sale to BKFC on DAZN: Salt Lake City at BKFC.com. The Maverik Center is located at 3200 S. Decker Lake Dr., West Valley City, UT 84119.

“This is our third event in Salt Lake City where we’ve drawn some of the biggest crowds in BKFC history,” said David Feldman, Founder and President of BKFC. “Mike Richman has worked very hard to become the BKFC Light Heavyweight World Champion and faced some of the best bare knuckle fighters in the world, however Josh Dyer has earned the opportunity in this tremendous battle of true warriors of the sport.”

“We’re putting together a fantastic undercard which we will announce shortly including numerous local fighters in a marquee event for those attending in-person at the Maverik Center and those watching globally on DAZN.”

“Another blockbuster BKFC event to add to our already packed spring/summer schedule,’ said Jared Kass, SVP DAZN. “BKFC has been a huge asset to DAZN since we launched our partnership, and we look forward to broadcasting another spectacular event.”

Longtime fan favorite Mike Richman of Rosemount, MN earned the world title with a stunning first round knockout of champion Jared Warren on December 21, 2024. He also holds exciting victories over battle-tested veterans Erick Lozano (BKFC Fight Night Clearwater), Isaac Doolittle (BKFC-31), Dakota Cochrane (BKFC-23) and Marcel Stamps (BKFC-17). Richman had also previously twice challenged for world titles against David Mundell (BKFC-47) and Lorenzo Hunt (KnuckleMania III).

Fighting out of Sioux Falls, SD, Josh Dyer challenges for the world title following a show-stopping first round knockout on August 3, 2024 of Will Albrecht at BKFC-63 in Sturgis, South Dakota before a crowd of over 15,000 at the 86th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. Dyer also holds victories over Dakota Cochrane (first round knockout at BKFC Fight Night Omaha) and a fifth-round stoppage of Jared Warren at BKFC-12.

Additional fights for this exciting night of world class bare-knuckle fighters will be announced shortly.

BKFC RETURNS TO CLEARWATER, FLORIDA ON FRIDAY, MAY 2

Clearwater, FL (March 12, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, returns to the Tampa – St. Petersburg, FL area on Friday, May 2, 2025 with BKFC Fight Night Clearwater emanating from the Orange County Choppers Roadhouse and Museum and broadcast globally on The BKFC App.

Tickets for BKFC Fight Night Clearwater are now On-Sale and can be purchased at BKFC.com. The Orange County Choppers Roadhouse and Museumis locatedadjacent to popular Bert’s Barracuda Harley Davidson, 10525 49th Street N., Clearwater, FL 33762. Doors will open on the night of the event at 6:00 p.m. ET with the first bell at 7:00 p.m. ET.

Headlining BKFC Fight Night Clearwater is a light heavyweight clash between Former BKFC Light Heavyweight World Champion Jared ‘Captain Deadpool’ Warren, (7-3), of Tampa, FL and BKFC contender Joseph ‘Dark Knight’ Creer, (3-2), of Columbus, GA.

“The Tampa – St. Petersburg area has played host to some of our most memorable events including KnuckleMania I in 2021,” said David Feldman, Founder and President of BKFC. “The fans there are incredible and we’re excited to promote another action-packed event and work with our friends at Bert’s Barracuda Harley Davidson.”

“Jared Warren has been on top before and is looking to return but Joseph Creer is a rapidly rising star in BKFC and looking to make his move towards a world title fight. It’s a sensational can’t miss fight in our very deep light heavyweight division.”

Ranked #1 in the light heavyweight division, Jared Warren defeated JoMi Escoboza in their highly anticipated rematch at BKFC-62 on June 21, 2024 to earn the vacant BKFC Light Heavyweight World Title. Fighting in his first defense against veteran Mike Richman on December 21, 2024 at Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL, Warren lost a hotly contested world title fight.

Joseph Creer heads back into battle confidently following a sensational performance, defeating David Simpson in a distance clash at BKFC-69.

Co-headlining BKFC Fight Night Clearwater, former world title challenger and #3 Ranked Light Heavyweight JoMi ‘The Archangel’ Escoboza, (9-2), of Tamarac, FL battles # 5 Ranked Light Heavyweight Jay ‘Action’ Jackson, (5-3), of Tampa, FL. Escoboza looks to return to the win column after the world title loss to Jared Warren at BKFC-62, while Jackson looks to extend his two fight winning following back-to-back third round stoppages over Idrees Wasi (BKFC Fight Night Clearwater) and Kyle McElroy (BKFC Fight Night Albuquerque).

Fighting in the feature fight, #3 Ranked Bantamweight ‘Royal’ Ryan Reber, (6-1), of Pinellas Park, FL faces off against Undefeated Matt ‘The Silencer’ Guyton, (2-0), of Kansas. Reber looks to return to the winner’s circle following his first loss to current BKFC Bantamweight World Champion Alberto Blas at BKFC-66.

Fast-rising featherweight Nathan ‘The Reaper’ Rivera, (3-0), of Atlanta, GA looks to stay perfect against veteran Alex ‘OG’ Castro, (0-2), of Guam. Competing in the flyweight division, BKFC debuter Chachi Versaci of Brooksville, FL clashes with Anthony ‘The Aztec Warrior’ Yost, (0-2), of Albert Lea, MN.

In the women’s bantamweight division, hometown favorite Crystal ‘The Rugged Beauty’ Pittman, (3-3), of Tampa, FL battles BKFC newcomer Claudia ‘Phoenix’ Zamora of Miami, FL. Hitting the squared circle in the bantamweight division, Quentin Gaskins, (1-0), of Clearwater, FL faces BKFC debuting Logan Speyrer.

Social Media

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

Twitter: @BareKnuckleFC

Facebook: @BareKnuckleFC

YouTube: @BareKnuckleFightingChampionship

TikTok: @BareKnuckleFC

Website: www.BKFC.com

BKFC SIGNS PRO BOXING HEAVYWEIGHT CONTENDER KENZIE MORRISON TO MULTI-FIGHT DEAL

Philadelphia, PA (March 11, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, has announced the signing of Heavyweight Boxing Contender Kenzie ‘TCB’ Morrison of Miami, OK to a multi-fight deal.

The hard-hitting son of Former Heavyweight Boxing World Champion Tommy ‘The Duke’ Morrison sports a boxing record of 22-1-2 with 20 knockouts. Most recently Kenzie Morrison knocked out Jackson Dos Santos in the first round on November 9, 2024. Thirteen of his knockout victories have come in the opening stanza.

Standing 6’4”, Morrison’s fighting style is very similar to the legendary crowd-pleasing explosiveness that made his father a fighting icon.

“We’re very excited to announce the signing of Kenzie Morrison,” said David Feldman, Founder and President of BKFC. “I’ve watched his ascent in professional boxing and believe his powerful striking will translate perfectly in our deep heavyweight division.”

Said Morrison about the signing, “I’ve had great conversations with David Feldman the last few months and am very excited to join BKFC. The athletes competing in their organization are some of the most talented in combat sports and I can’t wait to compete.”

Details of Morrison’s debut under the BKFC banner will be announced shortly.

Social Media

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

Twitter: @BareKnuckleFC

Facebook: @BareKnuckleFC

YouTube: @BareKnuckleFightingChampionship

TikTok: @BareKnuckleFC

Website: www.BKFC.com

ROBBIE LAWLER NAMED TO UFC® HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2025

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Modern Wing as a member of the Class of 2025. The 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place as part of the 13^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^Ô on Thursday, June 26, at T-Mobile Arena and will be streamed live, exclusively on UFC FIGHT PASS^®.

“Robbie Lawler is one of the most badass athletes to every step inside the Octagon,” said UFC President & CEO Dana White. “Robbie was an absolute killer, and I have a ton of respect for his toughness and his fighting style, which helped grow the sport of MMA and UFC by attracting a lot of new fans. Robbie had an amazing career, and it will be an honor to induct him into the UFC Hall of Fame this summer.”

Lawler will enter the UFC Hall of Fame as the 16^th member of the Modern Wing. The Modern Era category includes athletes who turned pro on or after November 17, 2000 (when the first UFC event under the unified rules of MMA was held) and who are a minimum age of 35, or who have been retired for one year or more.

A veteran of 47 fights during his 22-year MMA career, Lawler compiled a 30-16,1 NC (19-15 – UFC / PRIDE / Strikeforce), registering victories over UFC Hall of Famer Donald Cerrone, Frank Trigg (Fight Wing), former UFC welterweight champion Johny Hendricks, former interim UFC welterweight champion Carlos Condit, former Strikeforce and WEC welterweight champion Nick Diaz, and former WEC light heavyweight champion Scott Smith.

Lawler made his professional MMA debut on April 7, 2001, winning each of his first four fights across three organizations by first round KO before signing with UFC.

Lawler made his UFC debut on the prelims of UFC^® 37: HIGH IMPACT, which took place on May 10, 2002, in Bossier City, Louisiana. He defeated his opponent, Aaron Riley, via unanimous decision to launch his career inside the Octagon. Lawler would win three of his next six fights with UFC over two years, ending his first stint with the organization after losing to former UFC middleweight champion Evan Tanner during UFC^® 50: THE WAR OF ’04.

For the next seven years, Lawler would compete 18 times in other promotions outside UFC, securing a 11-6,1 NC record before making his return. This stint also included appearances in PRIDE and Strikeforce, as it was acquired by Zuffa and merged into UFC.

He returned to UFC competition as a welterweight in 2012, defeating Josh Koscheck via first-round TKO during UFC^® 157: ROUSEY vs. CARMOUCHE, which took place on February 23, 2013, in Anaheim, Calif.

Lawler would win his next two fights over Bobby Voelker and Rory MacDonald and set up his first title fight with Hendricks for the vacant UFC welterweight title at UFC 171.

UFC^® 171: HENDRICKS vs. LAWLER, took place on March 15, 2014, at American Airlines Center in Dallas, Texas. Lawler and Hendricks fought for five rounds, with Johny winning a unanimous decision. The first of two fights between the athletes, the UFC 171 main event won several awards for Fight of the Year in 2014.

Following his loss at UFC 171, Lawler won his next two fights against Jake Ellenberger and Matt Brown, to earn his second shot at the welterweight title as the number one contender against Hendricks in the main event of UFC 181.

UFC^® 181: HENDRICKS vs. LAWLER II took placeon December 6, 2014, in Las Vegas, Nev.; Lawler and Hendricks would compete for all five rounds, with Lawler winning the title via split decision.

Lawler’s status as a legendary fighter would be secured during his next two fights, as he would defend the welterweight title against Rory MacDonald and Carlos Condit during UFC 189 (2015) and UFC 195 (2016). Both fights would be five-round wars that would earn Fight of the Year honors by several media outlets during their respective years. In 2023, his UFC 189 fight with MacDonald would also enter the Fight Wing of the UFC Hall of Fame. During his career, he also scored seven knockouts and landed more than 1,200 significant strikes in welterweight competition.

Lawler would lose the welterweight title to Tyron Woodley in the main event of UFC 201, which took place on July 30, 2016. Over the next seven years, he would continue to fight top contenders in the middleweight and welterweight divisions. He retired after securing a 38-second KO of Niko Price during UFC 290 on July 8, 2023.

Outside the Octagon, Lawler has been honored with numerous awards throughout his career, being named Fighter of the Year in 2014 by MMA Junkie and the Fighters Only World MMA Awards.

A native of San Diego, Calif., Lawler began training in taekwondo at age eight and karate at age 10. His family relocated to Bettendorf, Iowa, when he was 10 years old, and he began to compete in wrestling at age 16 under the guidance of UFC Hall of Famer Pat Miletich. Lawler also wrestled in high school, earning All-State honors. He currently lives in Florida with his wife.

To view Lawler’s UFC FIGHT PASS collection please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/playlist/28688

13TH ANNUAL UFC INTERNATIONAL FIGHT WEEK™ TAKES OVER LAS VEGAS FROM JUNE 25 – 29

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that the 13^th Annual UFC International Fight Week^™will take place in Las Vegas from Wednesday, June 25, through Sunday, June 29, headlined by UFC^® 317 with events taking place throughout the city at venues including Resorts World Las Vegas, the Las Vegas Convention Center, and T-Mobile Arena.

UFC International Fight Week, the organization’s week-long celebration of combat sports, will be highlighted by the 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and the two-day UFC X fan experience. The week will be anchored by UFC^® 317, which takes place on Saturday, June 28, at T-Mobile Arena.

The prestigious 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, held annually as part of International Fight Week, honors the contributors and athletes who helped shape UFC while leaving an indelible mark on the sport of mixed martial arts. The UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place on Thursday, June 26, at T-Mobile Arena.

Spanning more than 200,000 square feet of the Las Vegas Convention Center’s entertainment activation space, UFC X, the organization’s fully immersive and easily accessible two-day fan experience, will feature interactive brand and partner activations, live stage programming, athlete autograph sessions, and meet and greets, providing fans with unparalleled access to UFC champions, Hall of Famers, top-ranked contenders, and other UFC personalities.

UFC X will take place on Friday, June 27, and Saturday, June 28, at the South Hall of the Las Vegas Convention Center, one of the premier meeting and conference venues in Las Vegas. Fans who attend the two-day experience will have access to purchase exclusive merchandise at the UFC Store, while also participating in numerous interactive fan-favorite activities.

General admission tickets for UFC X start at $30 for one-day access and $50 for two-day access. All children ages 12 and under will receive free entry. Tickets go on sale at 10 a.m. PT on Friday, March 14 via AXS.com.VIP packages will also be made available for UFC X through UFC’s Official VIP Experiences partner, On Location, at UFCVIP.com. UFC X will be produced by global full-service cultural marketing agency 160over90.

Fans from around the world who attend International Fight Week will also be able to enjoy the activities of a traditional Fight Week, including ceremonial weigh-ins and press conferences, leading to the schedule’s culminating event, UFC^® 317, on Saturday, June 28, at T-Mobile Arena.

UFC fans can also enter for their chance to win an unforgettable UFC Dream Week travel package for International Fight Week. One lucky winner and a guest will win a one-of-a-kind VIP experience that includes premium tickets to UFC^® 317, the UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and UFC X, as well as airfare and hotel accommodations. To learn more and enter, please visit DREAMWEEK.

Details regarding the fight card for UFC^® 317, as well as event locations and additional activities for UFC International Fight Week will be announced at a later date. For more information, please visit UFCFIGHTWEEK.COM.

UFC® RETURNS TO KANSAS CITY WITH CRITICAL LIGHT HEAVYWEIGHT BOUT BETWEEN (#4) JAMAHAL HILL AND (#7) KHALIL ROUNTREE JR. AS PART OF TKO TAKEOVER PRESENTED BY VECHAIN

Las Vegas – As part of TKO Takeover Presented by VeChain, UFC^® returns to T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Mo. with another thrilling card headlined by former UFC light heavyweight champion and No. 4 ranked contender Jamahal Hill as he faces fellow striker No. 7 Khalil Rountree Jr.. In the co-main event, fan favorite veteran and No. 15 ranked light heavyweight contender Anthony Smith faces rising star Zhang Mingyang.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: HILL vs. ROUNTREE JR. will take place Saturday, April 26 at T-Mobile Center. The main card will be available on ESPN2 and ESPN Deportes, as well as simulcast in English and Spanish on ESPN+, starting at 9 p.m. ET / 6 p.m. PT. The prelims will kick off streaming exclusively on ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: HILL vs. ROUNTREE JR. tickets will go on sale Friday, March 7 at 10 a.m. CT and will be available for purchase at AXS.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. UFC Fight Club^®members will have the opportunity to purchase tickets Wednesday, March 5 at 10 a.m. CT via the website www.ufcfightclub.com. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, March 6 starting at 10 a.m. CT. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Media members wishing to apply for UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: HILL vs. ROUNTREE JR. fight week credentials may sign up here.

Former champion Hill (12-3 1NC, fighting out of Grand Rapids, Mich.) aims to make a triumphant, quick return to the Octagon for his second bout of 2025. The first Dana White’s Contender Series alum to become an undisputed UFC champion, he earned his way to the title with wins over Thiago Santos, Johnny Walker and Jimmy Crute. Hill now plans to make a statement against Rountree Jr. and turn his attention to the championship picture.

Rountree Jr. (14-6 1NC, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) competes for the first time since his valiant Fight of the Night effort against Alex Pereira at UFC 307 last October. A devastating striker with nine of his 13 wins coming by way of KO, Rountree Jr. has entertained fans with his victories over Chris Daukaus, Karl Roberson and Modestas Bukauskas. He now looks to take Hill’s spot in the Top 5 with another signature performance.

Smith (38-21, fighting out of Omaha, Neb.) makes his 24^th UFC appearance in what could be his final walk to the Octagon after a career that spans back to 2008. A former title challenger who has finished 35 of his 38 wins before the final bell, Smith has proven that he can compete with the best in the world with wins over Alexander Gustafsson, Mauricio Rua and Rashad Evans. He now has his sights set on making his last fight a memorable one by handing Zhang his first loss in the promotion.

Rising contender Zhang (18-6, fighting out of Shanghai, China) seeks to break into the Top 15 for the first time. Developing a name for himself for his incredible finishing ability, Zhang has ended each of his 18 victories in the very first round, including those over Ozzy Diaz and Brendson Ribeiro. He now plans to keep his impressive streak alive by taking out Smith in spectacular fashion.

Additional bouts on the card include:

An intriguing middleweight bout pits No. 13 ranked contender Michel Pereira (31-12 2NC, fighting out of Tucuma, Para, Brazil) against Abus Magomedov (27-6-1, fighting out of Dusseldorf, Germany)
Featherweight strikers collide as No. 11 ranked Giga Chikadze (15-4, fighting out of Tbilisi, Georgia) returns against David Onama (13-2, fighting out of Kansas City, Mo. by way of Kyangwali, Uganda)
Ikram Aliskerov (15-2, fighting out of Makhachkala, Russia) faces Andre Muniz (24-6, fighting out of Montes Claros, MG, Brazil) in a battle of talented middleweights
Randy Brown (19-6, fighting out of Queens, N.Y.) battles Nicolas Dalby (23-5-1 2NC, fighting out of Copenhagen, Denmark) in a welterweight contest
Exciting flyweight action sees Matt Schnell (16-9 1NC, fighting out of Shreveport, La.) take on Jimmy Flick (17-8, fighting out of Tulsa, Okla.)
No. 14 ranked bantamweight contender Chelsea Chandler(6-3, fighting out of Stockton, Calif.) aims to defend her spot in the rankings against No. 15 Joselyne Edwards (14-6, fighting out of Panama City, Panama)
Mitch Ramirez (8-2, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) intends to spoil the UFC debut of Dana White’s Contender Series signee Ahmad Hassanzada (12-3, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif. by way of Kabul, Afghanistan)
Jaqueline Amorim (9-1, fighting out of Coconut Creek, Fla. by way of Manaus, Brazil) looks to put her grappling skills to the test against Polyana Viana (13-7, fighting out of Sao Geraldo do Araguaia, Para, Brazil) at strawweight
Undefeated Dana White’s Contender Series signee Malcolm Wellmaker (8-0, fighting out of Augusta, Ga.) plans to impress against the always-dangerous Cameron Saaiman (9-2, fighting out of Pretoria, Gauteng, South Africa) at bantamweight

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click here to apply for the event.

T-Mobile Center in Downtown Kansas City will become the first venue to host a TKO Takeover Presented by VeChain, showcasing consecutive PBR, UFC, and WWE events over a single weekend in the same city.

Beginning with PBR on Thursday, April 24, continuing with UFC FIGHT NIGHT on Saturday, April 26, and culminating with WWE’s flagship weekly program Raw on Monday, April 28, fans will have the opportunity to experience the non-stop action from each of these thrilling sports and entertainment properties.

An exclusive all-in-one ticket bundle comprising all three of these thrilling events will go on sale starting Monday, March 3 at 10 a.m. CST on AXS.com

###

About UFC^®

About T-Mobile Center

T-Mobile Center is Kansas City’s home for live entertainment and sporting events. Anchor to more than $8 billion of reinvestment in a revitalized downtown Kansas City, the award-winning venue operated by ASM Global has welcomed more than 12 million guests and transformed the live entertainment experience in the Midwest. For additional information or to join the conversation, follow T-Mobile Center on social media via Facebook: @TMobileCenter; Twitter: @TMobileCenter & Instagram: @TMobileCenter.

About ESPN+

ESPN+ is the industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the U.S. thousands of live sports events, original programming not available on ESPN’s linear TV or digital networks and exclusive editorial content from dozens of ESPN writers and reporters. Launched in April 2018, ESPN+ has grown to more than 24.9 million subscribers. Fans sign up to ESPN+ for just $9.99 a month (or $99.99 per year) at ESPN.com, ESPNplus.com or on the ESPN App (mobile and connected devices).

About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

TOP 10 FEATHERWEIGHTS (#8) JOSH EMMETT AND (#10) LERONE MURPHY HEADLINE AT UFC® APEX

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to UFC APEX with an electric featherweight tilt that sees No. 8 Josh Emmett face off against No. 10 ranked contender Lerone Murphy. In addition, all-action featherweights Pat Sabatini and Joanderson Brito collide in the co-main event.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: MURPHY vs. EMMETT takes place Saturday, April 5 in Las Vegas, Nevada and will be available on ESPN, ESPN Deportes and ESPN+ (English and Spanish). The prelims will air at 3 p.m. PT / 6 p.m. ET, followed by the main card airing at 6 p.m. PT / 9 p.m. ET.

UFC APEX VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that includes premium seating, all-inclusive hospitality, in-seat beverage service, meet-and-greets with UFC octagon girls and more. Visit UFCVIP.com for more information.

England’s Murphy (15-0-1, fighting out of Manchester, England) looks to resume his winning ways. Still yet to be handed a loss in his fight career, Murphy has proven to be formidable contender at 145-pounds by defeating Dan Ige, Edson Barboza, and Josh Culibao. He now sets forth to add Emmett to his unbeaten streak and continue his climb in the rankings.

Emmett (16-5, fighting out of Sacramento, Calif.) makes his first appearance of the 2025 season. Competing in the UFC for nearly a decade, Emmett has delivered countless highlight wins, most noteably against top talent such as Bryce Mitchell, Calvin Kattar, and Michael Johnson. With his sights now set on Murphy, Emmett plans to break into the division’s Top 5 by delivering another unforgettable finish.

Sabatini (19-5, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) sets out to make the most of first UFC co-main event. A decorated mixed martial artist with a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and Tang Soo Do, Sabatini has made a name for himself inside the Octagon with key victories against Jonathan Pearce, Lucas Almeida, and Jamall Emmers. The American now aims to deliver a statement performance against Brito and insert his name in the mix of top contenders.

Brazil’s Brito (17-4-1, fighting out of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil) steps back inside the Octagon looking to impress. The Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner has become one of the divisions most entertaining fighters after delivering impressive victories against Diego Lopes, Jack Shore, and Andre Fili. Brito now turns his attention to Sabatini as he looks to deliver an unforgettable finish.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Dana White’s Contender Series signee Cortavious Romious (9-3, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) looks for his first Octagon victory as he locks horns with Road to UFC: Shanghai standout winner ChangHo Lee (10-1, fighting out of Goyang, South Korea)
Dana White’s Contender Series alumns Kennedy Nzechukwu (14-5, fighting out of Dallas-Forth Worth, Texas) and Martin Buday (14-2, fighting out of Trnava, Slovakia) aim to deliver fireworks at heavyweight
Middleweight veterans Brad Tavares (20-11, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Kailua, Hawaii) and Gerald Meerschaert (16-5-1, fighting out of Milwaukee, Wisc.) are set for action
Undefeated Dana White’s Contender Series signee Torrez Finney (10-0, fighting out of Chattanooga, Tenn.) and The Ultimate Fighter season 32 contestant Robert Valentin (10-4-1, fighting out of Zurich, Switzerland) look to impress on the ESPN main card opener
Ode’ Osbourne (12-8, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Milwaukee, Wisc.) sets out to hand fellow Dana White’s Contender Series flyweight contract winner Luis Gurule (10-0, fighting out of Sheridan, Colo.) his first loss
A thrilling bantamweight contest pits Davey Grant (16-7, fighting out of Bishop Auckland, County Durham, England) against Daniel Santos (11-2, fighting out of Uberlandia, Brazil)
Rhys McKee (13-6-1 fighting out of Ballymena, Ireland) takes on Daniel Frunza (9-2, fighting out of Miami, Fla. by way of lasi, Romania) at welterweight
Diana Belibta (15-9, fighting out of Stoney Creek, Ontario, Canada) makes her return to collide with Dioine Barbosa (7-3, fighting out of Huntington Beach, Calif. by way of Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil) at flyweight
Loma Lookboonmee (9-3, fighting out of Phuket, Thailand) and Ariane Carnelossi (15-3, fighting out of Presidente Prudente, Sao Paulo, Brazil) are set to compete at strawweight
Victor Henry (9-3, fighting out of South Gate, Calif.) and Dana White’s Contender Series standout Pedro Falcao (9-3, fighting out of Porto Velho, Rondônia, Brazil) clash at bantamweight
Straweights kick the night off as Vanessa Demopoulos (11-6, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev.) and Talita Alencar (5-1-1, fighting out of Deerfield Beach, Fla. by way of Carutapera, Maranhão, Brazil) go toe-to-toe

For the latest information on bout announcements and additional information for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are subject to change. Please click?here?to apply for the event.

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About UFC^®

About ESPN+?? ??

https://espnpressroom.com/us/espnplus

About ESPN

BEKHZOD USMONOV SHOCKS COMBAT SPORTS WORLD WITH LIGHTNING-FAST KNOCKOUT IN BKFC FIGHT NIGHT ALBUQUERQUE HEADLINER

Albuquerque, NM (Feb. 28, 2025) Bekhzod “The Lion” Usmonov shocked the combat sports world by stopping former Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) Bantamweight World Champion Keith “The Rockstar” Richardson in the main event of BKFC Fight Night Albuquerque on Friday night at the sold-out Kiva Auditorium in Albuquerque, NM.

Friday’s event aired LIVE worldwide on The BKFC App.

The Tajikistan-born Albuquerque product Usmonov dropped Richardson, who entered fight night as the #1 ranked contender in the stacked BKFC bantamweight division, twice before the bout was stopped just 55 seconds into their highly anticipated headline showdown.

Following his win, Usmonov called for the next shot at undefeated BKFC Bantamweight World Champion Alberto “El Indio” Blas.

“I’m the #1 bantamweight in BKFC. I want the title shot, and I’ll knock out (Blas),” Usmonov told the jam-packed Kiva Auditorium.

Usmonov is now 2-1 on the strength of back-to-back stoppage victories in his blossoming BKFC career. Richardson, a product of Rock Hill, SC, is now 5-2 under the BKFC banner.

Only one of the 11 fights on Friday’s action-packed event went to the judges’ scorecards.

Albuquerque’s Donald Sanchez won his fourth straight fight and upped his BKFC record to 4-1 in Friday’s co-main event, defeating Harrison “The Head Hunter” Aiken in the sole decision of the evening. All three judges scored the fight in favor of Sanchez (49-43×2, 48-44).

Sanchez called out BKFC Middleweight World Champion David “Redneck” Mundell after his victory. “C’mon, Mundell — let’s do this,” Sanchez told the rocking Kiva Auditorium. “How many times do I have to say this? Give this fight to me already. Mundell, that belt is mine. Let’s go!” Aiken, who represents Atlanta, is now 3-4 in his bare knuckle fighting career.

Chicago welterweight Derrick “Superman” Findley notched his third straight victory in BKFC with a third-round knockout over the previously unbeaten Felipe “Flip” Chavez in Friday’s feature fight. The bout was stopped with just one second left in the third stanza. Chavez, who represents Albuquerque, is now 2-1 in his BKFC career.

“Listen, I’m a threat in this division, and I’m calling out everybody,” a fired-up Findley told the jam-packed Kiva Auditorium. “I’m looking for a big name for my next bout, so let’s see what happens. I’m the new threat in this division.”

Albuquerque’s Eric “Thuggy Bear” Dodson picked himself up off the canvas five times, and logged three knockdowns of his own, in his thrilling, come-from-behind, standing technical knockout victory over Van “Tactic” Vo in their eight-knockdown featherweight battle. The bout was stopped 17 seconds into the third frame. Dodson, the younger brother of BKFC Men’s World Flyweight Champion John “The Magician” Dodson, is now 4-2 in his BKFC career. Vo, who hails from Kettering, OH, is now 1-4 under the BKFC banner.

“We were born to fight. Born and raised in Albuquerque, NM! We came here to put on a show,” Eric Dodson told the sold-out Kiva Auditorium. “I’m ready to get back in here as soon as I heal. Send me the next fight. Let’s do it.”

Belen, NM’s Derek Rage Perez notched his third win with a first-round stoppage over “Savage” Mike Livingston in the bantamweight division. With the win, Perez upped his BKFC record to 3-4. The St. Louis, MO fighter Livingston sees his record move to 0-4 with the loss.

Russian-born Albuquerque fighter Murat “Sambeast” Kilimetov cruised to 2-0 in his BKFC career with a 61-second technical knockout over Lamont “The KO King” Stafford in cruiserweight action. Both of Kilemetov’s wins have come by stoppage. Stafford, a product of Hobart, OK, is now 1-1 in his bare-knuckle fighting career.

Albuquerque’s Will “Wild Bill” Albrecht returned to the win column and upped his record to 2-1 with a 95-second knockout at the expense of Brett “Da Beast” Fields in their middleweight matchup. Fields, who represents Chicago Heights, IL, is now 1-3 under the BKFC banner.

Red-hot Wichita, KS flyweight Justyn Martinez notched his second first-round finish in as many months with a 100-second stoppage over Zay “Zaybomination” Garcia. Martinez is now 2-0 in 2025 after beginning his BKFC career with four losses and one no contest. The Lubbock, TX product Garcia moves to 0-2 with the loss.

Tampa, FL’s Jay “Action” Jackson notched a pair of knockdowns en route to a knockout victory at the expense of Kyle “The Irishman” McElroy in their back-and-forth, light-heavyweight tilt. The bout was stopped at the conclusion of the third round on the advice of the ringside doctor. Jackson is now 5-3 on the strength of back-to-back stoppage victories. McElroy, who represents Albuquerque, is now 2-5.

Albuquerque’s Lorenzo “The Disciple” Coca was victorious in his lightweight matchup against Ruben “The Beast” Arroyo. Their bout was called to a stop on the advice of the ringside doctor at the conclusion of the second round. Coca, who logged the sole knockdown of the bout, is now 1-1 , while the El Paso, TX product Arroyo falls to 0-2.

In the opening fight of the night, Abilene, TX’s Roderick “Icewater” Stewart needed just 76 seconds to earn his first BKFC victory with a first-round stoppage over “Irish” Bryant McClain in middleweight action. Stewart scored a pair of knockdowns in the fight and improved to 1-1 under the BKFC banner with the win. McClain, who represents Albuquerque, was making his BKFC debut.

BKFC Fight Night Albuquerque Results

Bekhzod Usmonov def. Keith Richardson via KO in Round 1 (0:55)

Donald Sanchez def. Harrison Aiken via Unanimous Decision (49-43×2, 48-44)

Derrick Findley def. Felipe Chavez via KO in Round 3 (1:59)

Eric Dodson def. Van Vo via TKO in Round 3 (0:17)

Derek Perez def. Mike Livingston via TKO in Round 1 (1:58)

Murat Kilimetov def. Lamont Stafford via TKO in Round 1 (1:01)

Will Albrecht def. Brett Fields via TKO in Round 1 (1:35)

Justyn Martinez def. Zay Garcia via TKO in Round 1 (1:40)

Jay Jackson def. Kyle McElroy via TKO in Round 3 (2:00)

Lorenzo Coca def. Ruben Arroyo via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)

Roderick Stewart def. Bryant McClain via TKO in Round 1 (1:16)

BKFC FIGHT NIGHT ALBUQUERQUE WEIGH-IN RESULTS

Weigh-In Results

Keith Richardson, 136lb. vs. Bekhzod Usmonov, 136.8lb.

Donald Sanchez, 185.8 vs. Harrison Aiken, 184.8

Felipe Chavez, 165 vs. Derrick Findley, 166

Eric Dodson, 146 vs. Van Vo, 145.2

Derek Perez, 136 vs. Micah Livingston, 136

Murat Kilimetov, 203.2 vs. Lamont Stafford, 200

Will Albrecht, 178.6 vs. Brett Fields, 179

Zay Garcia, 125.4 vs. Justyn Martinez, 124.6

Kyle McElroy, 185.6 vs. Jay Jackson, 185

Lorenzo Coca, 153.8 vs. Ruben Arroyo, 154.8

Bryant McClain, 175.2 vs. Roderick Stewart, 176

Venue

Kiva Auditorium

Albuquerque, NM

FULL CARD ANNOUNCED FOR BKFC’S PHILLY EVENT AT THE 2300 ARENA ON FRIDAY, MARCH 21

Philadelphia, PA (February 26, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, has announced the full card of local and national fighting warriors for their exciting return to Philly on Friday, March 21 at the famed 2300 Arena.

BKFC Fight Night Philly is headlined by a welterweight clash between local fighting favorite Dustin ‘The Disciple’ Pague, (3-2), of Carlisle, PA and undefeated veteran Andrew Angelcor,

(3-0-1), of Barstow, CA.

Philly fan favorite John ‘Johnny Garb’ Garbarino, (1-0), looks to capitalize on his local fame against middleweight Michael ‘Murc’ Jones, (0-1), of Orlando, FL competing in the feature fight of the evening. Making his BKFC debut at KnuckleMania V, Garbarino had the sold-out crowd at the Wells Fargo Center shouting for more after his spectacular first round knockout of Apostle Spencer. Jones looks for his first BKFC victory following a hotly contested fight against Tony Murphy at BKFC-47.

Co-featured in the middleweight division, Cody Vidal, (1-1), of Temecula, CA battles Brandon ‘Stronghold’ Conley, (2-0), of Chillicothe, OH. Vidal returns to action following a second-round knockout of Kevin Sims at BKFC Fight Night Los Angeles on November 23, 2024. The heralded Conley has scored two knockouts in BKFC, most recently stopping Keith Richardson in the second round, also at BKFC Fight Night Los Angeles.

Fighting in the welterweight division, BKFC newcomers Dalvin Blair of Mays Landing, NJ and Justin ‘The Demon of Muay Thai’ Walters of Kentucky will face off. Flyweights seeking their first BKFC victory will see action as Nick ‘Nicky No Holdz Barz’ Burgos, (0-1), of Salt Lake City, UT battles Noah ‘The Cannon’ Norman, (0-1), of Coatesville, PA. Featherweight debuter Elijah ‘The Buffalo Soldier’ Harris of Shippensburg, PA will clash with Brandon ‘The Downs Warrior’ Honsvick, (1-0), of West Valley City, UT.

Light heavyweight newcomer Maurice Horne of Middletown, Delaware makes his BKFC debut against Adam ‘Clooney’ Freitas, (0-1), of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Rounding out the event in the heavyweight division, Philly native Pat Carroll debuts in BKFC against Alex ‘The Rhino’ Davis, (1-1), of Coal Mountain, WV.

Ticket information for BKFC Fight Night Philly can be found at BKFC.com. The 2300 Arena is located at 2300 S. Swanson Street, Philadelphia, PA 19148. Doors will open at 7:00 p.m. ET with the first bell at 8:00 p.m. ET. BKFC Fight Night Philly will also be broadcast internationally as part of the BKFC+ Subscription for $7.99 per month on the BKFC App – The Best Value in Combat Sports.

With an attendance of 17,762 on Saturday, January 25 at the Wells Fargo Center, BKFC’s KnuckleMania V set a new modern-day combat sports record for the city of Philadelphia.

Social Media

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

Twitter: @BareKnuckleFC

Facebook: @BareKnuckleFC

YouTube: @BareKnuckleFightingChampionship

TikTok: @BareKnuckleFC

Website: www.BKFC.com

UFC® RETURNS TO MIAMI WITH FEATHERWEIGHT TITLE BOUT BETWEEN (#1) ALEXANDER VOLKANVOSKI AND (#3) DIEGO LOPES

Miami, Florida – UFC® returns to Kaseya Center with an electric bout that sees No. 1 ranked contender Alexander Volkanovski and No. 3 ranked contender Diego Lopes battle for the vacant UFC featherweight championship. In addition, exciting lightweight contenders No. 7 ranked Michael Chandler and No. 12 Paddy Pimblett lock horns in the five-round co-main event.

UFC^® 314 tickets will go on sale Friday, February 21 at 7 a.m. PT/10 a.m. ET and are available for purchase at Ticketmaster.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thursday, February 20 starting at 12 p.m. PT/3 p.m. ET. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

Fight fans wanting to keep up to date with all further bout and ticketing information for UFC^® 314 can register their interest at https://www.ufc.com/miami.

UFC^® 314 will take place Saturday, April 12 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. The Early Prelims will air on ESPN+, Disney+, and UFC Fight Pass starting at 3:00 p.m. PT/6:00 p.m. ET, followed by the Late Prelims available on ESPN+, ESPN, Disney+, and ESPN Deportes 5:00 p.m. PT/8:00 p.m. ET. The ESPN+ Pay-Per-View main card kicks off at 7:00 p.m. PT/10:00 p.m. ET.

Media members wishing to apply for fight week credentials may sign up here.

UFC^® 314 marks the fourth UFC event in Miami, Florida. Since debuting with UFC^® 42: Hughes vs. Sherk in 2003, UFC has held a total of 23 premier sporting events in Florida, across six cities which featured ten world championship bouts.

Former UFC featherweight champion Volkanovski (26-4, fighting out of Windang, NSW, Australia) returns looking to reclaim his throne. The Australia native has delivered a Hall of Fame worthy resume with wins against the likes of Max Holloway (x3), José Aldo, and Yair Rodriguez. Volkanovski now looks to defeat Lopes in dominant fashion and kickoff a new historic reign.

Lopes (26-6, fighting out of Puebla, México by way of Manaus, Amazonas, Brazil) looks to achieve his dream of becoming UFC champion. Currently riding a five-fight win streak, Lopes made a name for himself in the 145-pound division with wins against notable names such as Brian Ortega, Dan Ige, and Sodiq Yusuff. He now looks to add Volkanovski’s name to his list of victories and finish the former champion in unforgettable fashion.

Chandler (23-9, fighting out of Deerfield Beach, Fla. by way of Nashville, Tenn.) looks to once again deliver fireworks. The all-action battler has entertained fans with his highlight reel finishes over Tony Ferguson and Dan Hooker. Chandler now looks to make quick work of rising contender Pimblett and position himself for a big 2025 campaign.

England’s Pimblett (22-3, fighting out of Liverpool, Merseyside, England) sets out to steal the show. A fan-favorite, Pimblett has lived up to the hype by delivering impressive wins against the likes of King Green, Tony Ferguson, and Jared Gordon. He now embarks on the biggest challenge of his career, as he looks to finish Chandler in emphatic fashion and continue his climb to greatness.

Additional bouts on the card include:

A dynamite featherweight matchup will see No. 5 ranked contender Yair Rodriguez (16-5, fighting out of Parral, Chihuahua, Mexico) welcome Patricio Pitbull (36-7, fighting out of Natal, Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil) to the Octagon
A high stakes welterweight contest pits No. 10 ranked contender Geoff Neal (16-6, fighting out of Dallas, Texas) against No. 13 Carlos Prates (21-6, fighting out of Taubate, São Paulo, Brazil)
No. 8 ranked light heavyweight contender Nikita Krylov (30-9, fighting out of Kislovodsk, Russia) and former title challenger No. 11 Dominick Reyes (14-4, fighting out of Victorville, Calif.) square off
Dana White’s Contender Series featherweight alums Dan Ige (18-9, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Haleiwa, Hawaii) and Sean Woodson (13-1-1, fighting out of St. Louis, Mo.) are set for battle
No. 1 ranked strawweight contender Yan Xiaonan (19-4 1 NC, fighting out of Beijing, China) goes toe-to-toe withNo. 3 Virna Jandiroba (21-3, fighting out of Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil)
UFC lightweight veteran Jim Miller (38-18 1 NC, fighting out of Sparta, N.J.) takes on Dana White’s Contender Series graduate Chase Hooper (15-3-1, fighting out of Enumclaw, Wash.)
Featherweights Darren Elkins (29-11, fighting out of Portage, Ind.) and Julian Erosa (30-12, fighting out of Las Vegas, Nev. by way of Yakima, Wash.) look to deliver fireworks
Dana White’s Contender Series contract winner Sedriques Dumas (10-2, fighting out of Pensacola, Fla.) takes on Michal Oleksiejczuk (19-9 1NC, fighting out of Barki, Poland) at middleweight
Sumudaerji (16-7, fighting out of Sichuan, China) and Mitch Raposo (9-2, fighting out of Fall River, Mass.) seek to make a statement when they meet at flyweight
Dana White’s Contender Seriesalumnus Alberto Montes (10-1, fighting out of Barquisimeto Estado Lara, Venezuela) collides with Roberto Romero (8-4-1, fighting out of Chihuahua, México) at featherweight
Middleweight Tresean Gore (6-2, fighting out Lawrenceville, Ga.) looks to halt the momentum ofMarco Tulio (13-1, fighting out São Paulo, Brazil)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change.

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About UFC^® ?

ABOUT KASEYA CENTER

Located in the center of booming downtown Miami and the Entertainment District, Kaseya Center—home of the NBA Champion Miami HEAT—hosts 80+ non-basketball events each year including A-list concerts, family shows, sporting events, national conferences and more. Built with state-of-the-art sound and lighting and HD and electronic media signage inside and out, the impressive 19,600-seat Kaseya Center is currently ranked the #1 arena in Florida for the 10^th consecutive year—and the 13^th time during the past 14 years—according to Billboard’s 2024 year-end rankings. Kaseya Center is also among the leading facilities in the country for hosting Latin entertainment. The Center has led the renaissance of downtown Miami over the past two decades, helping to transform the area into a thriving arts and entertainment district. The facility has hosted more than 1,200 events including diverse musical superstars such as Marc Anthony, Celine Dion, Ed Sheeran, Lady Gaga, Bruno Mars, The Killers, Bad Bunny, Carrie Underwood, Dua Lipa, Tool, Imagine Dragons, Kane Brown, Karol G, Drake, Andrea Bocelli and Paul McCartney, just to name a few. In 2009, Kaseya Center became among the first existing buildings in the country to have achieved LEED certification by the United States Green Building Council for its commitment to sustainability practices. More recently, in 2021, the Arena achieved its second LEED gold recertification. For more information about Kaseya Center, visit kaseyacenter.com.

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About ESPN

ESPN, the world’s leading sports entertainment brand, features eight U.S. television networks, direct-to-consumer ESPN+, ESPN Radio, ESPN.com, endeavors on every continent around the world, and more. ESPN is 80 percent owned by ABC, Inc. (an indirect subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company) and 20 percent by Hearst.

FLYWEIGHT SHOWDOWN BETWEEN (#2) BRANDON MORENO AND (#9) STEVE ERCEG HEADLINES UFC® RETURN TO MEXICO CITY

Las Vegas – UFC^® returns to Mexico City for the second time in two years and seventh time overall, headlined by a Top 10 flyweight showdown between former UFC flyweight champion and No. 2 ranked contender Brandon Moreno and former title challenger and No. 9 ranked Steve Erceg. In the co-main event, recently announced UFC Hall of Famer Kelvin Gastelum faces Joe Pyfer.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT®: MORENO vs ERCEG will take place Saturday, March 29 at Arena CDMX. The entire event will be simulcast on ESPN2 and ESPN+ in English and Spanish beginning with the prelims at 4 p.m. ET / 1 p.m. PT, followed by the main card at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT. ESPN Deportes will also broadcast both the prelims and main card, joining in progress at 6 p.m. ET / 3 p.m. PT.

UFC FIGHT NIGHT^®: MORENO vs ERCEG tickets will go on sale Fri., February 21 at 10 a.m. CST and are available for purchase at superboletos.com. Ticket sales are limited to eight (8) per person. A special Internet ticket pre-sale will be available to UFC newsletter subscribers Thurs., February 20 starting at 10 a.m. CST. To access this presale, users must register for the UFC newsletter through UFC.com.

VIP Experience packages are available via On Location, UFC’s Official VIP Experience Provider. Enjoy exclusive access with an official ticket package that can feature premium seating, VIP access to weigh-ins, all-inclusive hospitality, meet-and-greets with UFC fighters and more. For more information, visit UFCVIP.com to view package details.

Former UFC flyweight champion Moreno (22-8-2, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico) plans to impress in his third UFC main event in a row. Among the most popular athletes on the roster, Moreno has entertained fans with his winning performances against Deiveson Figueiredo (twice), Kai Kara-France and Brandon Royval. He now intends to earn another shot at flyweight gold with a statement performance against Erceg.

Erceg (12-3, fighting out of Perth, Western Australia, Australia) aims to prove he can compete with the top of the flyweight division and earn another shot at the championship. A well-rounded competitor who has finished eight of his 12 wins, he holds notable wins over Matt Schnell, Alessandro Costa and David Dvorak. Erceg now seeks to snatch Moreno’s spot in the rankings in dramatic fashion.

Gastelum (19-9 1NC, fighting out of Yuma, Ariz.) returns to the Octagon looking to put together another long win streak. Recently announced as the newest inductee for the 2025 UFC Hall of Fame for his iconic bout with Israel Adesanya, Gastelum has also delivered highlight-reel performances against Michael Bisping, Jacare Souza and Chris Curtis. He now plans to go toe-to-toe with Pyfer and put on a show for the Mexican fans.

Dana White’s Contender Series standout Pyfer (13-3, fighting out of Philadelphia, Penn.) looks to start his year with a signature knockout. A dynamic finisher, he has ended 12 of his 13 victories before the final bell, including those over Marc-Andre Barriault, Gerald Meerschaert and Alen Amedovski. Pyfer now has his sights set on breaking into the Top 15 by becoming the first person to KO Gastelum.

Additional bouts on the card include:

Ronaldo Rodriguez (18-2, fighting out of Coatzacoalcos, Veracruz, Mexico) squares off with Kevin Borjas (9-3, fighting out of Lima, Peru) in a flyweight bout
A thrilling lightweight collision is set between Rafa Garcia (16-4, fighting out of Brawley, Calif.) and Vinc Pichel (14-4, fighting out of Englewood, Colo.)
Flyweights Edgar Chairez (11-6 1NC, fighting out of Mexicali, Baja California Mexico) and CJ Vergara (12-6-1, fighting out of San Antonio, Texas) lock horns
Manuel Torres (15-3, fighting out of Tijuana, Mexico) clashes with Drew Dober (27-14 1NC, fighting out of Denver, Colo.) in a lightweight bout guaranteed to deliver fireworks
Jose Daniel Medina (11-4, fighting out of Santa Cruz, Bolivia) and Dana White’s Contender Series signee Ateba Gautier (6-1, fighting out of Doula, Cameroon) go head-to-head at middleweight
Dana White’s Contender Series standout David Martinez (11-1, fighting out of Mexico City, Mexico) will face Saimon Oliveira (18-5, fighting out of Balneario Camboriu, SC, Brazil) in an exciting bantamweight bout
No. 11 ranked UFC strawweight contender Loopy Godinez (12-5, fighting out of Vancouver, B.C., Canada by way of Aguascalientes, Mexico) puts her spot in the rankings on the line against the dangerous Julia Polastri (13-4, fighting out of Duque de Caxias, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

For the latest information on additional bouts for this event, please visit www.ufc.com. All bouts are live and subject to change. Please click here to apply for the event.

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About UFC^®

UFC^® is the world’s premier mixed martial arts organization (MMA), with more than 700 million fans and 259 million social media followers. The organization produces more than 40 live events annually in some of the most prestigious arenas around the world while broadcasting to over 975 million TV households across more than 170 countries. UFC’s athlete roster features the world’s best MMA athletes representing more than 80 countries. The organization’s digital offerings include UFC FIGHT PASS®, one of the world’s leading streaming services for combat sports. UFC is part of TKO Group Holdings (NYSE: TKO) and is headquartered in Las Vegas, Nevada. For more information, visit UFC.com and follow UFC at Facebook.com/UFC and @UFC on X, Snapchat, Instagram, and TikTok: @UFC.

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BKFC ROLLS INTO SPRING 2025 WITH TWO MONUMENTAL EVENTS LIVE ON DAZN

Philadelphia, PA (February 20, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, rolls into Spring this year with two monumental, international events broadcast globally and exclusively on DAZN.

Kicking off on Thursday, March 27, BKFC returns to its second home; Hard Rock Live — Hollywood, FL in front of another expected sold-out crowd of fervent supporters. The highly anticipated event is headlined by Former Two-Division World Champion and Pound-for-Pound Great, Luis ‘Baboon’ Palomino, (9-1), facing Top Rated Lightweight Contender, Howard ‘HD’ Davis, (7-2-1).

Promoting for the first time in Italy on Saturday, April 26 at the famed Palozzo Wanny, BKFC will present the highly anticipated rematch between arch-rivals; BKFC Cruiserweight World Champion, Chris Camozzi, (3-1), and Former Two-Division World Champion and Pound-for-Pound Legend, Lorenzo ‘The Juggernaut’ Hunt, (11-2).

Co-featured at BKFC ITALY in the welterweight division, Rico ‘Bon Bon’ Franco, (3-1) will battle European bare-knuckle fighting legend and BKFC debuting Jimmy ‘The King’ Sweeney for the BKFC European Title.

Winning his first nine fights dating back to BKFC-10 five years ago, Luis Palomino is among the promotion’s most popular fighters drawing his legion of supporters to his previous six fights at Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL. Memorable victories for Palomino have included James Lilley (BKFC-45), Tom Shoaff (BKFC-34), Elvin Brito (BKFC-26, BKFC-10), Martin Trey Brown (KnuckleMania II), Dat Nguyen (BKFC-22), Tyler Goodjohn (BKFC-18), Jim Alers (BKFC-14) and Isaac Vallie-Flagg (BKFC-11). Most recently Palomino lost a hotly contested welterweight world title fight to Austin Trout at BKFC-57.

Howard Davis has won five of his last six fights against James Brown (BKFC-66), Sean Wilson (BKFC Fight Night Miami), Jeff Chiffens (BKFC-49), Eduardo Peralta (BKFC-45) and Trevor Morris (BKFC-38). His only loss during the last two years has come in a memorable title challenge against world champion Kai Stewart at BKFC-56.

Fighting out of Denver, CO, Chris Camozzi won the vacant BKFC Cruiserweight World Title with a hometown, show-stopping first round knockout of Sawyer DePee on October 25, 2024. Prior to winning the world title, Camozzi and Lorenzo Hunt engaged in a hotly contested battle won by the Florida native in defense of the title at BKFC-50 in Denver. Camozzi also holds first round knockouts over Daniel Spohn (BKFC-41) and Bubba McDaniel (BKFC-31).

In a stellar career full of viral moments inside the square circle and riding an eight-fight victory streak, Lorenzo Hunt moved up to the heavyweight division to challenge for his third world title against then BKFC Heavyweight World Champion Mick Terrill at KnuckleMania IV on April 27, 2024 in Los Angeles, CA. Sustaining a bad shoulder injury in the first round, Hunt was forced to retire.

Hunt’s winning ledger in BKFC also includes exciting victories over current BKFC Light Heavyweight World Champion Mike Richman (KnuckleMania III), a one-punch international viral sensation, Quentin Henry (BKFC-30), Joe Riggs, (BKFC-24), Hector Lombard (BKFC-22), Josh Dyer (BKFC-17), Robert Morrow (KnuckleMania I), Davian Green (BKFC-14), Erick Lozano, (BKFC-12) and Reggie Pena (BKFC-8).

Fighting out of Lincolnshire, England, Rico Franco was victorious in his first three BKFC fights, all exciting knockouts against Kaleb Harris (BKFC-48), Axel Birbes (BKFC-40) and Darren Godfrey (BKFC-37). Most recently Franco challenged BKFC Welterweight World Champion Austin Trout on October 12 in Marbella, Spain, losing a hotly contested decision.

Ireland’s Jimmy Sweeney is thought by many to be one of the top bare-knuckle fighters in Europe. Sporting a regional record of 19-4 prior to making his BKFC debut in Italy, Sweeney has fought twice against Franco, splitting the fights on September 21, 2021 (Win) and November 16, 2019 (Loss). He also has fought twice against BKFC hard-core veteran Julian Lane, splitting the two fights. Currently, Sweeney is riding a four-fight winning streak.

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Website: www.BKFC.com

QUOTES: SPARKS FLY AS CONOR MCGREGOR AND THE STARS OF BKFC ITALY MEET THE MEDIA IN FLORENCE

orence, Italy (Feb. 16, 2025) Sparks flew on Sunday as combat sports icon and Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) Partner Conor McGregor and the stars of BKFC’s highly anticipated debut in Italy met with the media at the Launch Press Conference for BKFC ITALY in Florence.

BKFC ITALY takes place on Saturday, April 26 from the iconic Palazzo Wanny in Florence, and will air LIVE worldwide exclusively on DAZN.

The BKFC ITALY main event features one of the most highly anticipated rematches in BKFC history as BKFC Cruiserweight World Champion Chris Camozzi (3-1) looks to avenge the only loss of his bare-knuckle fighting career against former two-division BKFC World Champion Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt (11-2).

Italy will become the tenth country to host a BKFC event, following the organization’s upcoming historic, two-night premiere in Dubai on April 4-5, LIVE worldwide on DAZN from the Dubai Tennis Stadium.

Beloware some quotes from the stars of Sunday’s Launch Press Conference.

Conor McGregor

“Ladies and gentlemen, welcome. What a time to be alive. What a time for combat sports. We stand here today on the land of warriors, gladiators, where men step into the arena to test themselves in the purest form of combat. No gloves, no gimmicks. Just sheer will and determination. Centuries on, that same spirit is reborn. Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship, the world’s fastest growing combat sports promotion, comes to Italy for the first time ever on April 26. BKFC isn’t just another fight promotion; it’s a return to the roots of fighting itself. Fighting in its purest form, where sheer will and desire, toughness and heart is what’s needed to survive.”

“Italy has given the world legendary warriors, from the fearless gladiators of Rome to the fearless fighters who carry that flame with them today. That fire will burn brighter than ever inside the BKFC squared circle, where only the toughest, the bravest and most relentless will survive. We bring the fire of BKFC to Italian soil. The world will be watching live, exclusively on DAZN. To our fighters, Camozzi, Hunt, Sweeney, Franco, and the many men and women on the card, train hard, prepare smart and prepare for war. BKFC fans are in for something unforgettable. Italy, fighting is home. Let’s go.”

“If you think I’m up here giving these speeches and leading these men into battle and I won’t step in there myself, think again. For sure, Conor McGregor will fight in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship. Mark my words.”

“I’d like a World Title in this company. I wish to be a Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship World Champion. That is a significant title to hold. Nobody can speak anything bad on a BKFC World Champion. For sure, I’d be coming in looking for the World Championship. There are many showcase bouts. Mike Perry, Jeremy Stephens, a rematch with Eddie Alvarez. But who’s the Champion right now at lightweight, welterweight? We’ll see. I’m open.”

Chris Camozzi

“This is a chance to erase the one loss that I have. In my eyes, it wasn’t a loss. He’s the only guy to celebrate a split decision. I’m here to erase that, and I’m going to erase that by making sure the judges aren’t involved.”

“This guy’s a cheater. He’s been juicing forever. Take all the steroids you want; you couldn’t beat me on it before.”

Lorenzo “The Juggernaut” Hunt

“I’m gonna hurt him right here in Italy. I’m here to put on a show for you guys. I’m here to show you what a real fighter looks like, what a real champion looks like. I have the most fights, the most wins, I’m still No. 1 in the world. This guy’s a pretender. He will bleed in Italy for everybody to see!”

“All of the juicing allegations are false, which is why I’m back.”

Rico “Bon Bon” Franco

“I’m absolutely honored to be here in Florence and I’m sick of seeing Jimmy Sweeney (laughs). This will be the last time I fight him. It’s an honor to put on a show with him in a beautiful city like Florence, and we’re going to put on a war for everyone. Let’s go.”

“We’re ready to put on a (expletive) show for all you guys. You’re going to love it. I’m ready to die in the ring.”

Jimmy “The King” Sweeney

“It’s a long time coming. A lot of people didn’t think I’d ever come over. I feel like I’m the greatest bare-knuckle fighter to have done it, and I’m coming over to the greatest promotion there is. Come April 26, I’m going to show why I’m the best in the business.”

“We fought twice before. Two very, very good fights. We’ve both done a lot in this sport, and it’s an honor for me to fight my first fight in the beautiful city of Florence with somebody I’ve shared the ring with twice before. This fight is going to put it to rest once and for all. I’m coming in to strike fear in the hearts of every fighter in the welterweight division. I’m not here to play games, I’m here to take over. What Conor did in the UFC, I’m going to do that with BKFC.”

—————————————-

Fighting out of Denver, CO with a BKFC record of 3-1, Chris Camozzi won the vacant BKFC Cruiserweight World Title with a hometown, show-stopping first round knockout of Sawyer DePee on October 25, 2024. Prior to winning the world title, Camozzi and Lorenzo Hunt engaged in a hotly contested battle won by the Florida native in defense of the title at BKFC-50 in Denver. Camozzi also holds first round knockouts over Daniel Spohn (BKFC-41) and Bubba McDaniel (BKFC-31).

In a stellar career full of viral moments inside the square circle and riding an eight-fight victory streak, Lorenzo Hunt, (11-2), moved up to the heavyweight division to challenge for his third divisional world title against then BKFC Heavyweight World Champion Mick Terrill at KnuckleMania IV on April 27, 2024 in Los Angeles, CA. Sustaining a bad shoulder in the first round, Hunt was forced to retire.

Fighting out of Lincolnshire, England, Rico ‘Bon Bon’ Franco was victorious in his first three BKFC fights, all exciting knockouts against Kaleb Harris (BKFC-48), Axel Birbes (BKFC-40) and Darren Godfrey (BKFC-37). Most recently Franco challenged BKFC Welterweight World Champion Austin Trout on October 12 in Marbella, Spain, losing a hotly contested decision.

Ireland’s Jimmy ‘The King’ Sweeney, is thought by many to be one of the top bare-knuckle fighters in Europe. Sporting a regional record of 19-4 prior to making his BKFC debut in Italy, Sweeney has fought twice against Franco, splitting the fights on September 21, 2021 (Win) and November 16, 2019 (Loss). He also has fought twice against BKFC hard-core veteran Julian Lane, splitting the two fights. Currently, Sweeney is riding a four-fight winning streak.

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

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Website: www.BKFC.com

BKFC RETURNS TO HARD ROCK LIVE ON THURSDAY, MARCH 27 – LUIS PALOMINO VS. HOWARD DAVIS HEADLINES

Hollywood, FL (February 10, 2025) Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), The World’s Fastest Growing Combat Sports Promotion, has announced their triumphant return to their second home, Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL on Thursday, March 27 headlined by a sensational lightweight clash between Former Two-Division BKFC World Champion and Pound-for-Pound Great, Luis ‘Baboon’ Palomino, (9-1), of Miami, FL and Popular Rising Star and Former World Title Challenger, Howard ‘HD’ Davis, (7-2-1), of Fort Lauderdale, FL.

Ticket information for BKFC Fight Night Hollywood can be found at BKFC.com. Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL is located in the beautiful Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood, FL 33314.

“Remarkably this is our tenth event at our second home, Hard Rock Live in Hollywood, FL” said David Feldman, Founder and President of BKFC. “We’re very excited to bring back our BKFC fighting legend Luis Palomino in the main event against fast-rising star Howard Davis for this special Thursday night event.”

“As our last few events at Hard Rock Live have sold-out, I strongly encourage fans to purchase their tickets well in advance to ensure entry for this outstanding headliner and a great undercard were putting together.”

Winning his first nine fights dating back to BKFC-10 five years ago, #3 Ranked Luis Palomino is among the promotion’s most popular fighters drawing his legion of supporters to his previous six fights at Hard Rock Live – Hollywood, FL. Memorable victories for him have included James Lilley (BKFC-45), Tom Shoaff (BKFC-34), Elvin Brito (BKFC-26, BKFC-10), Martin Trey Brown (KnuckleMania II), Dat Nguyen (BKFC-22), Tyler Goodjohn (BKFC-18), Jim Alers (BKFC-14) and Isaac Vallie-Flagg (BKFC-11). Most recently Palomino lost a hotly contested welterweight world title fight to Austin Trout at BKFC-57.

#5 Ranked Howard Davis has won five of his last six fights against James Brown (BKFC-66), Sean Wilson (BKFC Fight Night Miami), Jeff Chiffens (BKFC-49), Eduardo Peralta (BKFC-45) and Trevor Morris (BKFC-38). His only loss during the last two years has come in a memorable clash against world champion Kai Stewart at BKFC-56.

Additional fights for BKFC Fight Night Hollywood will be announced shortly.

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KARL THOMPSON WINS CRUISERWEIGHT UK TITLE IN MAIN EVENT AT ACTION-PACKED BKFC FIGHT NIGHT NEWCASTLE

Newcastle, England (Feb. 8, 2025) The undefeated Karl “The Wasp” Thompson needed just 106 seconds towin the vacant Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) Cruiserweight United Kingdom Title in the main event of BKFC Fight Night Newcastle UK on Saturday night at the sold-out Walker Activity Dome in Newcastle, England. The event aired LIVE worldwide on The BKFC App.

In one of the most exciting one-round fights in BKFC history, the undefeated Sedgefield, England fighter picked himself up off the canvas, dropped Rob “The Great White” Boardman, and then scored the win via standing technical knockout.

Thompson is now undefeated in his first four trips to the BKFC squared circle. Boardman, who represents Weston-super-Mare, England, is now 6-1 in his bare-knuckle fighting career.

In the BKFC Fight Night Newcastle UK co-main event, Bishop Auckland, England’s Pic “The Mauler” Jardine defeated Tony “Bare Knuckle” Shields of Hull, England in a highly entertaining middleweight showdown. Two judges scored the fight 49-46, while one had it 50-45, all for Jardine, who is now 2-0 in his BKFC career. Shields was making his BKFC debut.

In the BKFC Fight Night Newcastle UK feature fight, fast-rising Newcastle lightweight Lewis “The Machine” Keen improved to 3-1 under the BKFC banner with a hard-fought, unanimous decision over Wales’ “Iron” Ryan McCarthy. The three ringside judges agreed on the 50-45 verdict. McCarthy is now 1-1.

Hebburn, England’s Paul Cook upped his BKFC record to 3-1 with a three-knockdown technical knockout victory at the expense of Blackburn, England’s Adam Grogan in welterweight action. The fight was stopped 25 seconds into the fourth round. Grogan was making his BKFC debut.

Burnhope, England’s Travis Dickinson introduced himself in style to the BKFC heavyweight division with an impressive debut victory over Worksop, England’s Rowan “The Manbaby” Gregory. The bout was stopped at the conclusion of the second round, with the win going to Dickinson, a former professional boxing champion in the United Kingdom.

Doncaster, England’s “Big” Joe Lister turned heads in his first BKFC fight with a first-round stoppage over “Big Bad” John Ferguson in the light-heavyweight division. The bout was stopped with 12 seconds left in the opening frame. Ferguson, a product of Ashington, England, saw his BKFC record move to 1-3 with the loss.

Sunderland, England featherweight Lewis “The Leprechaun” Garside logged a pair of knockdowns and earned a unanimous decision in his successful BKFC debut against Bartek “The Polish Plough” Kanabey. All three judges scored the contest 50-43 for Garside. Kanabey, who hails from Workington, England, is now 2-2 under the BKFC banner.

Spennymoor, England’s Brandon Comby rose to the occasion in his BKFC debut, defeating Corby, England’s Ryan Carmichael in lightweight action. All three judges scored the fight 50-45 for Comby. Carmichael entered the fight with a 1-0 BKFC record.

Representing Liverpool, Michael “El Animal” Henderson defeated Liam Hutchinson of Peterlee, England via unanimous decision in their showdown of debuting welterweights. Two judges scored the fight 50-45 while one had it 49-47, all to the advantage of Henderson.

Stalybridge, England’s Leigh “The Boom” Cohoon lived up to his nickname in his BKFC debut, dropping fellow debuting fighter, Kane “The Hitman” Wilkinson of Doncaster, twice enroute to the third-round stoppage victory in their light-heavyweight matchup. The bout was stopped 33 seconds into the third round.

James Walker, representing Tyne and Wear, England, earned the win via unanimous decision in his BKFC debut against Chorley, England’s Jan “Tank” Sulecki, who was also making his BKFC debut. All three judges scored the fight 50-44 in favor of Walker.

Edinburgh, Scotland’s Oskar Smykiel shined in his BKFC debut, stopping fellow debuting fighter, Alan “AJ” Comby of Spennymoor, via technical knockout with just 11 seconds remaining in the opening frame of their welterweight matchup.

Unbeaten South African featherweight Tommy “The Farmer” Strydom cruised to 4-0 with a dominant victory over John Spencer. Strydom sent Spencer to the canvas four times before their bout was stopped at 1:18 of the third round. The Manchester, England product Spencer is now 0-4 in BKFC.

BKFC Fight Night Newcastle UK Results

Karl Thompson def. Rob Boardman via TKO in Round 1 (1:46)

Wins vacant BKFC UK Cruiserweight Title

Pic Jardine def. Tony Shields via Unanimous Decision (49-46×2, 50-45)

Paul Cook def. Adam Grogan via TKO in Round 4 (0:25)

Travis Dickinson def. Rowan Gregory via TKO in Round 2 (2:00)

Joe Lister def. John Ferguson via TKO in Round 1 (1:48)

Lewis Garside def. Bartek Kanabey via Unanimous Decision (50-43×3)

Brandon Comby def. Ryan Carmichael via Unanimous Decision (50-45×3)

Michael Henderson def. Liam Hutchinson via Unanimous Decision (50-45×2, 49-47)

Leigh Cohoon def. Kane Wilkinson via TKO in Round 3 (0:33)

James Walker def. Jan Sulecki via Unanimous Decision (50-44×3)

Oskar Smykiel def. Alan Comby via TKO in Round 1 (1:49)

Tommy Strydom def. John Spencer via TKO in Round 3 (1:18)

Social Media

Instagram: @BareKnuckleFC

Twitter: @BareKnuckleFC

Facebook: @BareKnuckleFC

YouTube: @BareKnuckleFightingChampionship

TikTok: @BareKnuckleFC

Website: www.BKFC.com

UFC® 236 FIGHT BETWEEN ISRAEL ADESANYA AND KELVIN GASTELUM TO BE INDUCTED INTO UFC HALL OF FAME

Las Vegas – UFC^® today announced that the classic 2019 fight between middleweights Israel Adesanya and Kelvin Gastelum will be inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame’s Fight Wing as a part of the class of 2025. The 2025 UFC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony will take place this summer in Las Vegas and will be streamed live on UFC FIGHT PASS^®.

“The fight between Israel Adesanya and Kelvin Gastelum at UFC 236 was one of the greatest fights I’ve ever seen in my life,” said UFC President & CEO Dana White. “This was an absolute war with the interim title on the line. Congrats to Israel Adesanya and Kelvin Gastelum on a fight that will always be remembered!”

As the co-main event of UFC^® 236: HOLLOWAY vs. POIRIER 2, which took place on April 19, 2019, at State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Georgia, both Adesanya and Gastelum entered the event for the interim middleweight title on winning streaks of 16 and two, respectively.

Adesanya entered the Octagon with an undefeated 16-0 record (5-0 UFC), having most recently secured a win over former UFC middleweight champion Anderson Silva.

Gastelum entered the bout with a 17-3,1 NC record (10-3,1 NC UFC) and previous wins over UFC Hall of Famer Michael Bisping, former UFC middleweight champion Chris Weidman, former welterweight champion Johny Hendricks, former Strikeforce welterweight champion Nate Marquardt, and former Strikeforce middleweight champion Ronaldo “Jacare” Souza.

Both athletes quickly advanced to the center of the Octagon, exchanging a series of kicks and punches to begin the first round. With 2:52 seconds remaining in the first, Gastelum landed a right hook that sent Adesanya to the fence, securing the first major interaction of the fight and taking control of the remainder of the round.

Adesanya took control of round two, landing a series of kicks and body punches, creating separation with his reach advantage. Gastelum landed a powerful right jab with 3:20 left in the second, as both fighters engaged at a rapid pace in proximity. Gastelum would continue to apply pressure as the aggressor, forcing Adesanya to the fence and around the perimeter of the Octagon with a barrage of punches. Adesanya would connect with an overhand right with 2:14 remaining in the round, knocking Gastelum down and inflicting his first damage of the fight. Adesanya would control the rest of the round, flooring Gastelum a second time in the round with a reverse elbow and evening the score at one round each. Adesanya continued to dictate the action throughout round three, leading the continuous exchange of jabs, low kicks and knees to the body.

Gastelum charged Adesanya to open the fourth round, picking up the pace and initiating exchanges in the center of the Octagon. Adesanya secured a knee to the body 40 seconds into the round, followed by a right hook to take early control. Both fighters continued to trade punches, standing toe-to-toe while moving around the inner circle of the Octagon. Adesanya stunned Gastelum with a right jab with one minute remaining, but he responded with a high left kick that stunned Israel, allowing Kelvin to apply pressure near the fence to close the round.

Adesanya, with his face visibly swollen and a cut over his eye, stood tall at the beginning of the fifth, with the cameras capturing him talking to Gastelum across the Octagon, as the sold-out crowd cheered with anticipation for the start of the final round.

The excitement continued into round five with both fighters giving everything they had to secure the interim title. Both fighters continued to exchange punches and kicks in close quarters, with Adesanya attempting a guillotine 90 seconds into the round, landing a quick takedown with Gastelum rolling out and into a mounted position on top of him. Adesanya attempted to secure a triangle off his back, but Gastelum slipped out and both fighters stood to their feet as the entire crowd gave them a huge ovation with three minutes remaining.

Gastelum continued to swing wildly, but Adesanya, now in control, evaded the onslaught and countered each attack with a strike of his own. Adesanya stunned Gastelum with a straight right with 2:20 minutes left, slowing his momentum and reestablishing his reach advantage. Gastelum continued to apply pressure, but Adesanya evaded all attacks and continued to counter, securing a knockdown with one minute left in the round. Adesanya landed several elbows and punches to close out the round, knocking down a bloodied Gastelum with 25 seconds left and closing the fight in full mounted position.

Adesanya scored three knockdowns in the round, the most-ever landed in the fifth round of a UFC title fight. His four overall knockdowns were also the most ever in a UFC title fight.

Adesanya won the fight via unanimous decision, becoming the new interim UFC middleweight champion. He would unify the middleweight title six months later by defeating Robert Whittaker via second round KO in the main event of UFC^® 243: WHITTAKER vs. ADESANYA, which took place on October 6, 2019, at Marvel Stadium in Melbourne, Australia.

The bout won several awards, including Fight of the Year honors from MMA Junkie and MMA Fighting.

To view this fight on UFC FIGHT PASS, please visit: https://ufcfightpass.com/video/95785

BKFC FIGHT NIGHT NEWCASTLE / WEIGH-IN RESULTS

Weigh-In Results

Karl Thompson, 204.4lbs. vs. Rob Boardman, 202.4lbs.

BKFC Cruiserweight UK Title

Pic Jardine, 173.8 vs. Tony Shields, 173.4

Lewis Keen, 155.4 vs. Ryan McCarthy, 155.6

Paul Cook, 165.4 vs. Adam Grogan, 165.2

Travis Dickinson, 209.4 vs. Rowan Gregory, 218.3

John Ferguson, 186 vs. Joe Lister, 185.8

Lewis Garside, 140.6 vs. Bartek Kanabey, 138

Brandon Comby, 154.4 vs. Ryan Carmichael, 154.4

Liam Hutchinson, 165.8 vs. Mikey Henderson, 163.8

Leigh Cohoon, 181.2 vs. Kane Wilkinson, 185.8

James Walker, 243.8 vs. Jan Sulecki, 249

Alan Comby, 168.8 vs. Oskar Smykiel, 165

Tommy Strydom, 145.8 vs. John Spencer, 144.4

Venue

Walker Activity Dome

Newcastle, UK