2024 PFL Heavyweight Semifinals #1 Denis Goltsov vs. #4 Tim Johnson #2 Oleg Popov vs. #3 Valentin Moldavsky  2024 PFL Women’s Flyweight Semifinals #1 Dakota Ditcheva vs. #4 Jena Bishop #2 Taila Santos vs. #3 Liz Carmouche 2024 PFL Global Season action continues Friday June 21 from Salt Lake City, Utah across ESPN platforms in the U.S. and via DAZN in Canada, Europe and additional premium sports platforms internationally The Professional Fighters League (PFL), resumed 2024 PFL Global Season action live from Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut. The eleven-fight card featured the Heavyweight and Women’s Flyweight divisions, with eight fighters earning 2024 PFL Playoff berths.  The evening’s co-main event featured Dakota Ditcheva and Chelsea Hackett in a Women’s Flyweight bout. Ditcheva turned in another spectacular performance with a first round TKO victory. Ditcheva remained undefeated at 12-0, earned her tenth career knockout, and clinched the top Playoff seed in the division.  Valentin Moldavsky entered the PFL SmartCage in a highly anticipated trilogy matchup against Linton Vassell. After three punishing rounds, Vassell earned a split decision victory and is now 2-1 against his foe. Although he did not come out on top tonight, Moldavsky heads to the 2024 PFL Global Season Playoffs. Denis Golstov and Thiago Santos squared off in Heavyweight Season action, with a trip to the 2024 PFL Global Season Playoffs on the line. Golstov was all business, finishing Santos in the first round via TKO and punching his ticket to his fifth career PFL postseason.  In Women’s Flyweight action, former Bellator Women’s Flyweight Champion Liz Carmouche and Kana Watanabe squared off in an exciting rematch. The contest was even going into the third round and looked to be headed to the judges scorecards before Carmouche locked in an armbar submission with eight seconds remaining, clinching a 2024 PFL Global Season Playoff berth in dramatic fashion. “The 2024 PFL Global Season resumed this evening with the highest of stakes as the Heavyweight and Women’s Flyweight divisions looked to secure 2024 PFL Global Playoff berths and continue their million dollar journeys,” said PFL CEO Peter Murray. “The PFL is the only organization in which the athletes and fans know what is needed to advance; which provides for the best action and unparalleled synergy with the audience.” “Tonight in Connecticut we saw our world-class PFL athletes fight their way to the PFL Playoffs,” said Ray Sefo, President of Fighter Operations at PFL. “We look forward to next week's action in Salt Lake City. It is officially time to win or go home.” Taila Santos and Jena Bishop met in Women’s Flyweight action, with both having a viable shot at a berth in the 2024 PFL Playoffs. Both women left it all in the PFL SmartCage for three rounds, with Santos coming out victorious by split decision and clinching a Playoff spot in her first PFL Season.  Oleg Popov defeated Davion Franklin by unanimous decision in a Heavyweight Global Season matchup. Popov extended his winning streak to 16, the longest Heavyweight winning streak in MMA, and clinched a 2024 PFL Playoff berth in his first PFL Season. Marcelo Golm and Tyrell Fortune duked it out in Heavyweight division action, with the bout going the three round distance. Fortune took the unanimous decision win and secured three points in the Global Season standings.  In PFL Global Season Women’s Flyweight action, Ilara Joanne and Shanna Young traded blows for three rounds, but it was Joanne who earned a victory via unanimous decision and three points for the win. In Heavyweight PFL Global Season action, Tim Johnson made quick work of Danilo Marques scoring a first round TKO. Johnson is now 18-9 with ten career knockouts. Johnson, who took the fight on short notice, earned six points and a trip to the 2024 PFL Global Season Playoffs.   In an exciting PFL Global Season Women’s Flyweight bout, Juliana Velasquez used her striking prowess to TKO Lisa Mauldin in the second round. Velasquez is now 13-3 with her fifth career knockout. Kicking off the night in a PFL Women’s Flyweight Showcase bout, Sumiko Inaba defeated Saray Orozco by split decision. Inaba moved her career record to 7-1 in her PFL debut. 2024 PFL Global Season continues Friday, June 21 from Salt Lake City, Utah with Light Heavyweight and Lightweight action across ESPN platforms in the U.S. and via DAZN in Canada, Europe and additional premium sports platforms internationally. All 2024 PFL Global Season events are live across ESPN platforms in the U.S. and DAZN in Canada and Europe with additional international premium sports platform distribution reaching 150 countries globally. COMPLETE RESULTS PFL Uncasville Main Card Results Linton Vassell (24-9) def. Valentin Moldavsky (13-3, 1NC) by split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28) Dakota Ditcheva (11-0) def. Chelsea Hackett (4-2-1) by 1st round TKO (3:22) Denis Goltsov (34-8) def. Thiago Santos (22-13, 1NC) by 1st round TKO (2:22) Liz Carmouche (22-7) def. Kana Wantanabe (13-3-1) by 3rd round submission (4:52) Early Card Results Taila Santos (21-3) def. Jena Bishop (7-1) by split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29) Oleg Popov (18-1) def. Davion Franklin (6-3) by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-25)  Tyrell Fortune (14-2) def. Marcelo Golm (10-6) by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-26)  Ilara Joanne (12-9) def. Shanna Young (9-7) by unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 29-28)  Tim Johnson (18-9) def. Danilo Marques (15-6)  by 1st round TKO (3:14) Juliana Velasquez (13-3) def. Lisa Mauldin (6-5) by 2nd round TKO (1:30)  Sumiko Inaba (7-1) def. Saray Orozco (8-6) by split decision (29-28, 29-28, 28-29)

This weekend, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, UFC returns to the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, with a thrilling fight card headlined by a vital flyweight bout between the former title challenger Alex Perez and the undefeated prodigy Tatsuro Taira. As the anticipation builds, fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+. Main Event: Alex Perez vs. Tatsuro Taira Alex Perez, after a challenging 20-month hiatus, showcased resilience by rebounding from a loss with a knockout victory over Matheus Nicolau, marking his first win since 2020. His opponent, Tatsuro Taira, continues his impressive undefeated streak with 12-0, including three consecutive victories in his sophomore year. This match is crucial as both fighters vie to solidify their positions as top contenders in the flyweight division. Co-Main Event: Ikram Aliskerov vs. Antonio Trocoli The co-main event pits Ikram Aliskerov against Antonio Trocoli in a middleweight clash. Aliskerov, a former Combat Sambo world champion and a standout from Dana White’s Contender Series, aims to maintain his momentum against Trocoli, who steps in as a last-minute replacement hoping to make a significant impact in his UFC debut. Additional Main Card Highlights Timmy Cuamba vs. Lucas Almeida:  This lightweight bout features two dynamic strikers known for their aggressive fighting styles, promising an action-packed encounter. Douglas Silva de Andrade vs. Miles Johns:  In this bantamweight fight, veteran Andrade seeks to continue his successful return to the 135-pound category against Johns, who is looking to extend his winning streak and rise through the ranks. Asu Almabayev vs. Jose Johnson:  Flyweights Almabayev and Johnson face off in a critical bout where Almabayev aims to extend his winning streak and Johnson seeks a career-defining victory. Brady Hiestand vs. Garrett Armfield:  Opening the main card, these promising bantamweights clash, with each fighter looking to prove they are ready to take the next step in their careers. Preliminary Card Showdowns Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Joshua Van:  Ulanbekov, a top contender in the flyweight division, faces Van in a match that could propel the winner to new heights. Jimmy Flick vs. Nate Maness:  Both flyweights are known for their finishing abilities and will look to impress in a potentially explosive bout. Josh Quinlan vs. Adam Fugitt:  Expect fireworks as these welterweights, known for their striking prowess, collide. Carli Judice vs. Gabriella Fernandes:  Flyweights Judice and Fernandes both aim to rebound from recent setbacks and establish themselves as contenders. Jeka Saragih vs. Westin Wilson:  Featherweights Saragih and Wilson are eager to prove their worth, with Saragih looking to build on his recent upset victory. Josefine Knutsson vs. Julia Polastri:  In this strawweight matchup, both fighters seek to leverage their recent successes to climb the rankings. Melquizael Costa vs. Shayilan Nuerdanbieke:  The evening kicks off with this featherweight bout, setting the tone for a night of intense matchups. Join us for a captivating evening at UFC Fight Night: Perez vs. Taira, starting with prelims at 7 PM ET followed by the main card at 10 PM ET.

Which martial arts is best for street fight? The best martial art for a street fight are the ones created specifically for self-defense including BJJ , Krav Maga , Kali, Escrima , Muay Thai , and MMA . READ MORE: Drills to Learn Martial Arts Breathe Like a Martial Artist Essentials for Beginners in Self-Defense

Can Martial Arts Help with Anger Issues? Martial arts can help with anger issues only if the individual also addresses the root cause of their anger. While martial arts offer benefits that support the healing journey—such as improved breathing, self-discipline, humility, and physical exercise—they are not a replacement for therapy. Deeper issues like forgiveness, which are essential for resolving anger, are best addressed through professional therapy. Martial arts can be a valuable tool to complement this process. READ MORE: Breathe Like a Master Combating Stress with Martial Arts Cutting Edge Techniques for Self-Defense

The UFC 303 fight card has undergone a major shakeup with the withdrawal of Conor McGregor due to an injury, scrapping his highly anticipated bout against Michael Chandler. Stepping in to fill the void and headline the event is a light heavyweight title rematch between the reigning champion Alex Pereira and former champ Jiří Procházka. This unexpected turn of events sets the stage for an explosive main event. Pereira, who recently defended his 205-pound title against Jamahal Hill at UFC 300, faces a quick turnaround against a familiar foe. Procházka, known for his relentless style and unpredictable striking, is hungry to reclaim the belt he lost to Pereira in their intense two-round battle in November 2023. After a statement victory over Aleksandar Rakić at UFC 300, Procházka is confident in his ability to dethrone the champion and re-establish himself as the dominant force in the division. The co-main event also promises fireworks as featherweight contender Brian "T-City" Ortega takes on the surging Diego Lopes. Ortega, a former title challenger, secured a much-needed win over Yair Rodriguez in his last outing, and aims to continue his ascent up the rankings. Lopes, one of the breakout stars of 2023, burst onto the scene with a first-round knockout victory over Sodiq Yusuff at UFC 300, and now looks to make a statement against a seasoned veteran in Ortega. In the light heavyweight division, an intriguing matchup sees Anthony Smith stepping in for the injured Jamahal Hill to face the dangerous Carlos Ulberg. Ulberg, riding a six-fight winning streak with five consecutive finishes, including a lightning-fast 12-second knockout of Alonzo Menifield, poses a significant threat to Smith. This fight represents a golden opportunity for Ulberg to break into the upper echelon of the division and solidify his status as a contender. UFC 303, taking place during the annual International Fight Week festivities, is shaping up to be an action-packed event. The Pereira vs Procházka rematch promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the sport's most dynamic strikers, while the supporting bouts offer intriguing storylines and the potential for upsets. Despite the unfortunate loss of McGregor vs Chandler, the revised UFC 303 card remains a must-watch for fight fans. With Pereira vs Procházka headlining a night of high-stakes matchups, the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas is sure to be buzzing with excitement come June 29th.

In a surprising turn of events, the UFC's inaugural event in Saudi Arabia has undergone a major change. Khamzat Chimaev, the highly anticipated headliner, has been forced to withdraw from his scheduled bout against former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker due to a sudden illness. Stepping up to fill the void is the undefeated rising star Ikram Aliskerov, in what promises to be a thrilling clash of contrasting styles and experience levels. Aliskerov, hailing from Dagestan, has quickly made a name for himself in the UFC with two dominant finishes in his first two fights. His aggressive striking and relentless pace have earned him comparisons to his countryman and training partner, Khabib Nurmagomedov. Despite his relative inexperience, Aliskerov's confidence and ambition remain unwavering as he prepares to face one of the most respected veterans in the division. Robert Whittaker, a fan favorite known for his technical striking and resilient spirit, presents a formidable challenge for Aliskerov. With a wealth of experience against top-level competition, Whittaker possesses a deep understanding of the intricacies of the fight game. His recent victory over Paulo Costa showcased his ability to adapt and overcome adversity, making him a dangerous opponent for any aspiring contender. This unexpected matchup offers a unique opportunity for both fighters. Aliskerov, with a victory over Whittaker, could catapult himself into title contention and solidify his status as a legitimate threat in the middleweight division. For Whittaker, a win over the surging prospect would reaffirm his position as a top contender and potentially set up a rematch with the reigning champion. The UFC Saudi Arabia event, scheduled for June 22, promises to be a memorable night for fight fans. With a new main event that features a captivating clash between a rising star and a seasoned veteran, the stakes are higher than ever. Both Aliskerov and Whittaker have the chance to make a statement and leave a lasting impression on the global stage. This last-minute change has undoubtedly injected a new level of excitement and intrigue into the event. Fans around the world will be eagerly anticipating the showdown between these two skilled warriors, as they battle for supremacy in the octagon and a shot at UFC gold.

When Tatsuro Taira headlines his first UFC event against Alex Perez at the APEX in Las Vegas, his biggest fan won’t be in attendance. Yet despite his grandfather's recent passing, the Japanese flyweight contender will fight to honor his hero. “When I was asked my hero, I answered my grandfather and he definitely would be happy if I win my fight,” said Taira. “(Before) When I would say to him that I'm going to go to the U.S., he didn’t ask about a win or loss, he just told me to come back healthy.” Taira has made the transition from local hero to international star, with four of his five UFC fights taking place at the APEX. The unbeaten (15-0) 24-year-old, ranked 13th in the 125-pound weight class, faces a significant step up in competition against former world title challenger Perez, who sits at number five. Taira's calm determination and evolving skillset have impressed thus far. "The reason why no one can beat me at flyweight is because they don't know what my strongest thing is,” he said. A win over Perez would solidify his position among the flyweight elite. “For this main event, I will make my statement to finish and do anything to win,” he said. “That’s the main mission.” Taira has already achieved his most important goal: making his grandfather proud. “My grandfather really cared for me, especially for my health,” said Taira. “He didn't mention winning or losing, but I heard he would talk about me to the neighbors: ‘He's my grandchild and he's a UFC fighter. I’m really proud of him.’ He didn’t speak so much, but he spoke things about me really loud, so that makes me happy.” Don't miss UFC Fight Night: Perez vs Taira, live from UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. Prelims start at 7pm ET/4pm PT, main card at 10pm ET/7pm PT.

Are Martial Arts Classes Expensive? The cost of martial arts classes can vary based on three main factors: location, type of lessons, and the platform of instruction. In the United States, lessons at a commercial studio typically range from $100 to $200 per month (as of 2024). The type of lessons also affects pricing, with group lessons generally falling within the commercial studio range, while private lessons, depending on the time and instructor, can range from $40 to $200 per hour. Additionally, virtual or online instruction platforms can influence costs, with group classes starting at around $100 per month and potentially increasing from there. READ MORE: Karate Basics Mastering BJJ Cutting Edge Techniques for Self-Defense

What Martial Arts Does John Wick Use? John Wick's martial arts have evolved over time. His go to techniques combine Jeet Kune Do , Muay Thai , and even Krav Maga-style striking. Keanu Reeves even trained with BJJ black belts to prepare for the role. READ MORE: Learn John Wick Martial-Arts Styles John Wick: Chapter 4 Best Action Film of 2023 8 Must See Movies with Incredible Fight Scenes

"An ex-CIA operative is thrown back into a dangerous world when a mysterious woman from his past resurfaces. Now exposed and targeted by a relentless killer and a rogue black ops program, he must rely on skills he thought he left behind." Peter Barrett, a former CIA operative portrayed by Charlie Weber, resides in rural Oregon, leading a secluded life as a painter following a tragic incident 17 years ago. This event caused a rupture in his relationship with his estranged wife, fellow agent Elena Maran, played by Ryila McIntosh, stemming from the loss of their unborn child.  Peter's solitude is shattered when Sophia, portrayed by Madison Bailey, arrives, claiming to be the daughter of him and Elena, and appears to be targeted by CIA assassins.  Seeking aid from his mentor and adoptive father, Henry Byrne, played by Jon Voight, Peter embarks on a quest with Sophia to uncover the truth behind Elena's disappearance while evading the clutches of corrupt section chief Naomi Piasecki, portrayed by Marie Avgeropoulos, and her formidable assassin, Ghost, played by Max Montesi. The Painter is a 2024 action film that comes from Paramount's recent relaunch of the Republic Pictures label.  Interesting Fact: “Producer Steven Paul and actor Jon Voight who are no strangers to working together with the two having jointly brought to life such films as the Baby Geniuses series, Karate Dog, and the Bratz movie through their regular collaborations.” - IMDb

Stay informed every week with the latest martial arts movies, events, and fights worldwide thanks to Black Belt. Presenting the Black Belt Watch List for the weekend of June 15, 2024. Hidden Strike on Netflix Watch Hidden Strike, starring Jackie Chan and John Cena  Directed by Scott Waugh In Los Angeles, an ex-con takes the underground fighting world by storm in his quest to fulfill a promise to a dead friend. When two ex-special forces soldiers must escort a group of civilians along Baghdad's. "Highway of Death" to the safety of the Green Zone the action begins! Bloodsport on Prime Video for FREE Watch Bloodsport, Starring Jean Claude Van Damme and Bolo Directed by Newt Arnold This is Van Damme Great! U.S. soldier Frank Dux (Jean-Claude Van Damme) has come to Hong Kong to be accepted into the Kumite, a highly secret and extremely violent martial-arts competition. Lady Dragon on Tubi Watch Lady Dragon on Tubi, Starring:Cynthia Rothrock, Richard Norton Directed by: David Worth An ex-CIA agent tracking down an arms dealer who killed her husband learns the martial arts techniques of the Lady Dragon from a wise older man. ONE Friday Fights 67, Friday - June 14, Lumpinee Boxing Stadium, Bangkok ONE Friday Fights 67 goes down live at the iconic Lumpinee Boxing Stadium on June 14, and the 11-bout card features a slew of international Muay Thai and MMA stars competing for a coveted US$100,000 contract. In the main event, Nakrob Fairtex collides with 4th ranked flyweight kickboxing contender Tagir Khalilov in a Muay Thai banger. UFC Fight Night: Perez vs. Taira / UFC Vegas 93: June 15, Saturday This weekend, on Saturday, June 15, 2024, UFC returns to the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, with a thrilling fight card headlined by a vital flyweight bout between the former title challenger Alex Perez and the undefeated prodigy Tatsuro Taira. As the anticipation builds, fans can catch all the action live on ESPN+ and Fight Pass.

Teen sensation Johan Ghazali had the toughest test of his young career at ONE 167: Tawanchai vs. Nattawut II against Nguyen Tran Duy Nhat. After three hard rounds, Duy Nhat edged the Malaysian-American by unanimous decision. Although disappointed by the result, “Jojo” is taking it as a learning experience against one of the best athletes in the division. “It was frustrating because Nguyen is a technical fighter. He has a lot of experience. He knew what was coming before it came,” Ghazali told ONE. Ghazali still showed himself well throughout the match, constantly pushing the pace. While apologetic to his most fervent supporters, Ghazali is already putting the loss behind him and looking toward the future. “Sorry to all the Malaysian fans who came out from Malaysia all the way to Bangkok to support me. I 100 percent felt their support in there. Keep on supporting me. I do it for the fans. I’ll be back,” Ghazali professed.   “I’ve lost before. I’ve lost in life. Losing is a part of life. Don’t judge me on my wins. Judge me on how I come back from my losses.” Duy Nhat may have gotten his hand raised after nine minutes of action, but he was impressed with his opponent. “No. 1” had to constantly contend with Ghazali’s youthful exuberance inside the Circle and believes he has a very bright future ahead of him that could be filled with gold. “Johan is young and strong. He has a strong mind as well, and he will certainly be a future World Champion of ONE Championship,” Duy Nhat said. ONE Chairman and CEO Chatri Sityodtong also sees a bright future for the teen star. Sityodtong put the matchup into perspective, mentioning“Jojo” has plenty of time to develop into the elite striker of the future. "'Jojo' is still young. He is still 17. He has less experience. His opponent is the number one fighter from Vietnam. He’s 35 and he has a lot more experience. I think that ‘Jojo’ needs to gain a lot more experience in the future,” Sityodtong said.