The latest weekly look at boxing and MMA news across the fighting world.
Angela Carini’s Controversial Olympics Defeat
Angela Carini recently faced a controversial defeat at the Olympics, sparking reactions from UFC fighters and fans alike. The match, which many believed Carini had won, ended in a decision that left spectators and analysts questioning the judges’ scoring.
This incident has reignited discussions about the need for more transparency and consistency in boxing judging. Carini’s loss is a significant moment in her career, and it has drawn attention to the broader issues within the sport.
Last Week’s Results for UFC Veterans
Last week saw several UFC veterans competing in various events. Rashad Coulter (9-5 MMA, 1-3 UFC) and Anthony Ivy (14-7 MMA, 0-2 UFC) were among those who stepped into the ring.
Their performances were closely watched by fans and analysts, as they continue to build their careers post-UFC. These fighters’ journeys highlight the challenges and opportunities that come with transitioning from the UFC to other promotions.
UFC Veterans in Action
The UFC is returning to Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, for an exciting event at the Etihad Arena. This event features a key bantamweight matchup between former interim title challenger Cory Sandhagen and the undefeated Umar Nurmagomedov.
This fight is highly anticipated, as both fighters are known for their skill and determination. The outcome of this match could have significant implications for the bantamweight division.
Upcoming Events and Fighters
This weekend, several notable fighters will be competing. Liz Carmouche (22-7 MMA, 5-5 UFC), Taila Santos (21-3 MMA, 4-3 UFC), and Tim Johnson (18-9 MMA, 4-3 UFC) are set to participate in the PFL event at Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut.
These fighters have a strong following, and their matches are expected to draw significant attention. Their participation in the PFL event underscores the growing popularity and competitiveness of the league.
Additional Fighters in Action
Other fighters mentioned include Jarred Brooks (20-3 MMA, 2-2 UFC), who participated in the ONE Championship ceremonial weigh-ins, and Nah-Shon Burrell (19-12 MMA, 1-1 UFC). Charles Rosa (17-8 MMA, 5-8 UFC), Joseph Holmes (8-4 MMA, 1-3 UFC), Austin Lingo (9-3 MMA, 2-3 UFC), Silvana Gomez Juarez (11-5 MMA, 1-3 UFC), and Kazula Vargas (14-6 MMA, 1-3 UFC) are also competing.
These fighters’ performances will be closely monitored as they continue to make their mark in the sport.
UFC Fight Night: Cory Sandhagen vs. Umar Nurmagomedov
The upcoming UFC Fight Night at Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi is set to be a thrilling event. The main card features a rebooked fight between Cory Sandhagen and Umar Nurmagomedov.
This fight was previously canceled in Nashville, making it highly anticipated. The winner of this bout is likely to challenge for the bantamweight title after the Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili fight at Noche UFC. Predictions favor Sandhagen, but Nurmagomedov’s undefeated record makes this a must-watch match.
Main Card Predictions
The main card also includes several other exciting matchups. Shara Magomedov will face Michał Oleksiejczuk in a fight that promises to be more interesting than the original co-main event.
Despite Oleksiejczuk’s back-to-back losses, he is expected to put up a strong fight. Marlon Vera will take on Deiveson Figueiredo in a bout that could headline its own UFC Fight Night.
Vera needs to remind fans of his top bantamweight status, while Figueiredo, who has looked good since moving up from flyweight, may struggle against a larger opponent with a strong kicking game.
Other Notable Fights
Tony Ferguson will face Michael Chiesa in his first booked welterweight fight since winning The Ultimate Fighter in 2011. Ferguson is on a lengthy losing streak, while Chiesa is also on a three-fight skid but is favored in this matchup.
Mackenzie Dern will fight Lupita Godinez in an important strawweight division fight. Dern risks her title aspirations if she loses her third consecutive fight. The outcome of this match depends on Dern’s effectiveness in getting the fight to the ground, with a potential for a tight split decision.
Predictions
The preliminary card features several intriguing matchups. Alonzo Menifield will face Azamat Murzakanov, with Murzakanov expected to win due to his UFC experience. Mohammad Yahya will take on Kauê Fernandes, with Fernandes favored to secure his first UFC victory.
Shamil Gaziev will fight Don’Tale Mayes, with Gaziev looking to bounce back after his first pro loss. Guram Kutateladze will face Jordan Vucenic, with Kutateladze expected to snap his two-fight skid. Victoria Dudakova will fight Sam Hughes, with Dudakova expected to maintain her unbeaten record.
Jai Herbert will face Rolando Bedoya, with Herbert favored to win. Sedriques Dumas will fight Denis Tiuliulin, with Dumas favored due to his dangerous finishing skills.
UFC Schedule 2024 Overview
The UFC schedule for 2024 is packed with exciting events and key matchups. Notable highlights include Conor McGregor‘s return, which has been delayed due to injury, and Dricus Du Plessis‘s victory over Sean Strickland to win the middleweight title.
Alexander Volkanovski lost his featherweight belt to Ilia Topuria via knockout, and Sean O’Malley retained his bantamweight title against Marlon Vera at UFC 299. Max Holloway won the ‘BMF’ belt from Justin Gaethje with an all-time great KO at UFC 300.
Alex Pereira extended his light heavyweight title run by stopping Jamahal Hill. Islam Makhachev announced his next title defense after submitting Dustin Poirier in June, following Alexandre Pantoja‘s retention of the flyweight gold against Steve Erceg in May.
Leon Edwards lost the welterweight belt to Belal Muhammad on home turf in the UK, while Tom Aspinall retained the interim heavyweight strap on the same night in Manchester.
Upcoming Fights in August
On August 10th, UFC Fight Night at UFC Apex in Las Vegas will feature Marcin Tybura vs. Serghei Spivak as the main event. Other fights include Toshioomi Kazama vs. Charalampos Grigoriou and Jonny Parsons vs. Yusaku Kinoshita.
On August 17th, UFC 305 at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia, will feature Dricus Du Plessis defending his middleweight title against Israel Adesanya. Other notable fights include Kai Kara-France vs. Steve Erceg and Tai Tuivasa vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik.
September Highlights
September will also see some exciting matchups. On September 7th, UFC Fight Night at UFC Apex in Las Vegas will feature Gilbert Burns vs. Sean Brady as the main event, with Calvin Kattar facing Kyle Nelson in a featherweight bout.
On September 14th, UFC Noche at Sphere in Las Vegas will be headlined by Sean O’Malley defending his bantamweight title against Merab Dvalishvili, and Alexa Grasso defending her flyweight title against Valentina Shevchenko.
October Event
In October, the UFC will return to Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi on October 27th. The fighters for this event are yet to be announced, but it is expected to feature some high-profile matchups. Fans are eagerly awaiting the announcement of the fight card, as Abu Dhabi has become a popular location for major UFC events.
Popular Content Highlights
Some of the most popular upcoming events include UFC on ABC7 pre-event facts, Tony Ferguson’s need for a win to avoid the longest losing skid in octagon history, Dustin Poirier’s revelation that Khabib Nurmagomedov purchased his fight kit for $30,000, and social media reactions to Belal Muhammad’s title win over Leon Edwards.
These highlights provide fans with interesting insights and stories from the world of MMA.
The world of boxing and MMA is buzzing with exciting events, controversial decisions, and high-stakes matchups. From Angela Carini’s controversial Olympics defeat to the highly anticipated UFC Fight Night in Abu Dhabi, fans have a lot to look forward to.
