The stakes couldn’t be higher, and Jamahal Hill knows it. As he gears up for a long-anticipated clash with former champion Jiří Procházka at UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 , Hill isn’t just chasing redemption—he’s seeking to reclaim his place as the most dangerous force in the light heavyweight division. “I’m just ready to get in there. Ready to fight,” Hill told UFC.com , his words short but his intentions crystal clear. It’s been a turbulent road for “Sweet Dreams” since his crowning moment in Brazil at UFC 283 , where he dismantled Glover Teixeira to claim the vacant belt. That performance wasn’t just a win—it was a masterpiece, a testament to Hill’s meteoric rise from Contender Series hopeful to UFC gold. But the years since have been challenging. Injuries, a torn Achilles in 2023, and a brutal loss to Alex Pereira at UFC 300  have tested the former champ’s resilience like never before. Yet, Hill remains unfazed. In typical fashion, he focuses on the silver linings.“2024 went great for me,” he said. “I made a lot of money.” Still, fans can’t help but reminisce about the Hill who stormed into title contention with jaw-dropping knockouts of Jimmy Crute, Johnny Walker, and Thiago Santos. A self-proclaimed student of “Touch ‘Em Up University,”  Hill built a reputation for delivering finishes that left opponents, and audiences, stunned. And now, as he stares down Procházka, he’s hungry to bring back that vintage, dominant form. "This Fight Has to Happen" Procházka isn’t just another opponent for Hill—he’s the  opponent. For years, Hill has kept his sights locked on the Czech warrior, describing him as an exciting, dynamic fighter who embodies the spirit of competition. “This has to happen,” Hill declared. “When it does, it’s going to be one of the best fights people have ever seen.” Hill knows what’s at stake. A win over Procházka could put him right back in the title conversation, with the belt potentially up for grabs in early 2025. And as Alex Pereira continues his reign atop the division, Hill is laser-focused on earning another shot at the throne. “I think the light heavyweight division is in a great spot,” Hill said. “We’ve got a superstar champion, and I plan on knocking him the f*** out.” The Fight Fans Can’t Miss With the January 18 showdown just days away, Hill is preparing for what he believes will be a career-defining moment. Facing Procházka, a wild and unpredictable striker known for his relentless aggression, Hill anticipates an electrifying battle. “He comes to fight. He puts on a show. He tries crazy, explosive things,” Hill said. “I’m ready to test myself against that, pass this test, and move on.” For Hill, it’s not just about winning—it’s about reasserting his dominance, reminding the world why he’s one of the most dangerous light heavyweights on the planet. His goal is clear: put on a spectacular performance, claim victory, and get back in line for UFC gold. “I’ve got to come out and be who I usually am—dominant,” Hill said. “As always, perform to the level I know I’m capable of, and we’ll get back to where we want to be.” Don’t miss UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2, live from Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, on January 18, 2025.  The prelims start at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, followed by the main card at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT, streaming exclusively on Pay-Per-View. This is the fight you’ve been waiting for—get ready for fireworks!

When it comes to captivating fighters in the UFC, few can match the mystique and unpredictability of Jiří Procházka. Known for his wild striking, samurai philosophy, and unwavering determination, Procházka is set to return to the Octagon at UFC 311, taking on the explosive Jamahal Hill in a highly anticipated Light Heavyweight bout on the main card. With the division’s top spot up for grabs, this showdown promises fireworks and could redefine the legacy of one of the UFC’s most enigmatic stars. Jiří Procházka: A Fighter Like No Other Procházka, hailing from the Czech Republic, has captivated MMA fans worldwide with his unorthodox style and warrior’s mindset. Sporting an impressive 30-5-1 record, Procházka’s rise in the UFC has been nothing short of meteoric. His crowning achievement came at UFC 275, where he claimed the Light Heavyweight title with a stunning fifth-round submission against Glover Teixeira—a fight hailed as one of the greatest in the division’s history. What sets Procházka apart is his ability to seamlessly blend striking and grappling with a sense of controlled chaos. From spinning elbows to devastating head kicks, his arsenal is as unpredictable as it is effective. Outside the cage, Procházka’s adherence to Bushido, the samurai code, adds a layer of intrigue, making him a beloved figure in the MMA world. The Road to UFC 311: A Grudge Match in the Making This fight marks Procházka’s first return to action since vacating the title due to a shoulder injury in 2023. The setback forced the Czech samurai out of competition, and Jamahal Hill stepped in to claim the vacant title with a decisive victory over Glover Teixeira at UFC 283. Hill’s reign was short-lived, however, as a freak Achilles injury sidelined him, leaving the division in flux. Now, with both men back to full health, UFC 311 serves as the ultimate proving ground. For Procházka, this fight represents a chance to reclaim his throne. For Hill, it’s an opportunity to solidify his legacy against one of the division’s most formidable opponents. What to Expect: Fireworks and Ferocity Fans should brace themselves for a high-octane clash of styles. Procházka’s creative striking and relentless pace will collide with Hill’s sharp boxing and knockout power. Hill’s ability to maintain distance and utilize his jab will be critical, while Procházka’s unorthodox movement and ability to absorb punishment could spell trouble for the American. Procházka has shown vulnerabilities in his defensive striking, often leaving himself open during exchanges. Hill, who boasts a 78% knockout rate, could capitalize on these openings. Conversely, Hill has yet to face someone with Procházka’s unique rhythm and relentless pressure, which could disrupt his game plan. Key Moments in Jiří Procházka’s Career UFC Debut Domination : Procházka burst onto the UFC scene with a second-round KO of Volkan Oezdemir, showcasing his power and unpredictability. Elbow of Doom : His spinning elbow knockout of Dominick Reyes at UFC Fight Night 192 remains a highlight-reel staple. Championship Heart : The submission victory over Glover Teixeira at UFC 275 solidified Procházka’s status as one of the best Light Heavyweights in history. The Stakes at UFC 311 A win for Procházka would reestablish him as the king of the Light Heavyweight division and pave the way for potential showdowns with other top contenders like Aleksandar Rakić or Magomed Ankalaev. For Hill, a victory would mark the pinnacle of his comeback, proving that his title reign was no fluke. With two dynamic athletes at the peak of their abilities, UFC 311’s Procházka vs. Hill bout is poised to be an unforgettable battle. Don’t blink—this fight could end in an instant, and history will be made in the Octagon once again.

UFC 311 is around the corner, and all eyes are on the co-main event showdown between undefeated Russian phenom Umar Nurmagomedov and reigning bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili. With a spotless record and an unrelenting desire to dominate, Nurmagomedov has made it clear: he’s ready to take the champ into deep waters, where only the strongest survive. From Dominance to Destiny It’s been a meteoric rise for Nurmagomedov. In just three years and six electrifying fights, he’s gone from a promising prospect to a legitimate title contender. His journey began with a jaw-dropping second-round submission victory over Sergey Morozov in 2021, setting the stage for a series of triumphs over high-caliber opponents like Brian Kelleher, Nate Maness, Raoni Barcelos, and Bekzat Almakhan. But it was his victory against Cory Sandhagen—a grueling battle that pushed him to his limits—that cemented his claim to the bantamweight throne. When a fractured arm nearly sidelined his title shot, Nurmagomedov’s determination only grew stronger. Defying medical advice and his inner circle, he declared himself fight-ready in record time. “I told my manager, Ali (Abdelaziz), ‘Take this fight.’ They thought I was crazy, but I knew I was ready,” he said. His unwavering resolve has brought him to this pivotal moment. A Battle of Styles and Wills Despite the tension and social media skirmishes, Nurmagomedov insists there’s no bad blood between him and Dvalishvili. “I don’t think he’s a bad person,” he stated. But he hasn’t shied away from calling out the champ’s reluctance to face him. “Joe Rogan asked him about fighting me, and he dodged the question. It’s clear he wanted easier fights for his first title defense—guys like O’Malley or Yan. With me, it’s different. He knows it’ll be a war.” Nurmagomedov’s confidence is unshakable, rooted in his multifaceted skillset. “With me, he’ll have to go into deep waters. I’m not an easy opponent. He won’t control me with takedowns, and my striking will give him problems. If he makes one mistake, I’ll finish him. Be careful, Merab.” Respect for the Challenge, Confidence in Victory While Nurmagomedov acknowledges the unpredictability of MMA, he remains convinced that he has the tools to dismantle Dvalishvili. “He’s a good fighter, but I don’t see how he can beat me. He might get one takedown, but he won’t keep me there. I can wrestle, too. And if he gives me his back, I’ll choke him out.” Nurmagomedov even credited Sandhagen as his toughest challenge to date, hinting that Dvalishvili might not pose the same threat. “The hardest fight of my life was against Cory. This will be different.” Don’t Miss UFC 311: A Night of Champions The stakes couldn’t be higher as Nurmagomedov looks to fulfill his destiny and Dvalishvili aims to cement his legacy. With both fighters bringing unparalleled skills and determination to the Octagon, this clash promises fireworks. Catch all the action live at UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 , streaming from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, on January 18, 2025. Prelims kick off at 8 p.m. ET/5 p.m. PT, with the main card live on PPV at 10 p.m. ET/7 p.m. PT.

Is the Reverse Punch the Most Lethal Move in Shotokan karate? Master Kenneth Funakoshi demonstrates the perfect reverse punch in this February 1985 Black Belt Magazine throwback cover . Born on September 4, 1938, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Funakoshi was a prominent karate master and the founder of the Funakoshi Shotokan Karate Association (FSKA). A fourth cousin of Master Gichin Funakoshi, the founder of modern Shotokan, Kancho Kenneth Funakoshi passed away on July 3, 2024. Learn more about this cover and the entire magazine preserved in digital format: https://www.blackbeltmag.com

After clawing his way to the top of the bantamweight division, Merab Dvalishvili  is determined to cement his legacy. The reigning UFC bantamweight champion, affectionately known as "The Machine," is gearing up for his first title defense at UFC 311  against an undefeated and dangerous opponent, Umar Nurmagomedov . The stakes couldn’t be higher, and Dvalishvili is leaving no stone unturned to keep his crown. From Georgia to Glory: The Journey of a Champion Merab Dvalishvili’s victory over Sean O’Malley at UFC 306  was a career-defining moment that sent shockwaves through the MMA world. His unanimous decision win not only earned him the bantamweight title but also the admiration of an entire nation. Georgia erupted in celebration, with fans hailing Dvalishvili as a national hero. “When I landed back home, the love was overwhelming,” Dvalishvili shared. “It didn’t matter where I went—young kids, elders, everyone was proud of me. It’s bigger than just fighting; it’s about representing my country on the global stage.” Facing a "Fast-Tracked" Contender Umar Nurmagomedov has skyrocketed into title contention, most notably after defeating Cory Sandhagen at UFC Abu Dhabi. But Dvalishvili is less than impressed by Nurmagomedov’s rapid ascent. “Umar is good, no doubt, but he hasn’t earned this like the rest of us,” Dvalishvili said. “He beat Sandhagen, but that’s just one fight. I’ve faced legends—Jose Aldo, Petr Yan, Henry Cejudo. I’ve earned this belt through blood, sweat, and tears.” While the Georgian champion respects Nurmagomedov’s skills, he doesn’t mince words about his challenger’s attitude. “He’s cocky when he should be humble. Real fighters earn respect through action, not entitlement.” Fighting for More Than a Belt For Dvalishvili, his success is about more than individual glory. Alongside fellow Georgian champion Ilia Topuria , he’s inspiring a new generation in his homeland. Their victories have shifted the spotlight from political turmoil to a narrative of pride and resilience. “We Georgians are warriors at heart,” Dvalishvili declared. “Fighting isn’t just a sport for us; it’s a way to show the world what we’re made of. Seeing how our success impacts people’s lives is what keeps me going.” The Road Ahead: A Test of Heart and Skill As he prepares to face Nurmagomedov at UFC 311 , Dvalishvili acknowledges the challenge but exudes confidence. “This fight won’t be easy. Umar is tough, but I’ve overcome tougher. I’m ready to hand him his first loss and prove why I’m the champion.” The co-main event at UFC 311  promises fireworks, with Dvalishvili looking to add yet another name to his impressive résumé. Don’t miss this epic showdown, live from Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California , on January 18, 2025 . Prelims start at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT, with the main card kicking off on PPV at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT.  Will Dvalishvili’s machine-like dominance continue, or will Nurmagomedov snatch the belt in his first title shot? Tune in to witness history in the making!

Five years. That’s how long Arman Tsarukyan has waited to rewrite the script of his UFC debut against Islam Makhachev. What started as a baptism by fire for a 22-year-old UFC newcomer in 2019 has now come full circle. On January 18, 2025 , Tsarukyan steps into the Octagon once again with Makhachev, this time with the UFC Lightweight Championship  on the line. This isn’t just a fight—it’s the culmination of years of growth, relentless training, and a burning desire to prove that the man he faced in Russia years ago is far from invincible. The Journey: From Acid Test to Title Shot When Tsarukyan first faced Makhachev at UFC Saint Petersburg, it was a fight many expected to be a walkover for the Dagestani phenom. But Tsarukyan shocked the world by not only surviving but showcasing the kind of skill and resilience that hinted at a bright future. Despite the loss, Tsarukyan walked away with more than experience; he gained belief. “I was just 22 and on three weeks’ notice,” Tsarukyan recalls. “I didn’t perform at my best, but even then, I showed I could wrestle with him and hold my own. I’ve improved so much since then, and this time, I’m coming to win.” And improve he has. Tsarukyan has gone 9-1 since their first encounter, most recently securing a razor-thin split decision over former champion Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 . Meanwhile, Makhachev has been on an unstoppable tear, defending his title and extending his win streak to 14 fights. But Tsarukyan isn’t intimidated. He’s laser-focused on one thing: the belt. “I’m the One to Beat Him” Despite Makhachev’s dominance and pound-for-pound ranking, Tsarukyan sees cracks in the armor. “People think he’s unbeatable,” Tsarukyan said, “but I took him down when I was 22. He’s not as good as people make him out to be.” Tsarukyan believes his wrestling, coupled with his youth, hunger, and five years of evolution, will be the difference maker. “I’m young, hungry, and I’ve never had the belt. That drives me every day. I’ve dreamed about this moment for five years.” Gameplans Are for the Unprepared If there’s one thing Makhachev’s camp, led by Khabib Nurmagomedov, is known for, it’s meticulous preparation. But Tsarukyan has a blunt counter to their strategies: power. “When you get hit with a hard punch, you forget about your gameplan,” Tsarukyan said, channeling the spirit of Mike Tyson. “I’ll hit him hard early, and he’ll forget everything. That’s how I’ll break him.” The Rematch We’ve Been Waiting For For Tsarukyan, this isn’t just a chance to win a title—it’s an opportunity to show the world how far he’s come since that fateful night in 2019. With the confidence of a seasoned contender and the fire of a hungry challenger, he believes the stars are aligned for him to dethrone one of the UFC’s most dominant champions. Don’t Miss UFC 311 The stakes couldn’t be higher. Will Makhachev cement his legacy as the king of the lightweight division, or will Tsarukyan deliver the upset of the year? Catch all the action live on January 18, 2025 , as UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2  unfolds at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Prelims:  8 PM ET/5 PM PT Main Card (PPV):  10 PM ET/7 PM PT It’s a rematch five years in the making—and it could change the lightweight division forever.

Islam Makhachev isn’t just fighting to defend his UFC Lightweight Championship—he’s fighting to erase every shred of doubt about his dominance. As the pound-for-pound king prepares to meet Arman Tsarukyan in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC 311 , the stakes couldn’t be higher. From his debut in the Octagon, Makhachev’s goal was clear: prove he’s the best in the world. With a 14-fight win streak, three successful title defenses, and victories over some of the sport’s elite, including Alexander Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier, Makhachev has already built a resume worthy of the Hall of Fame. But for this 33-year-old Dagestani phenomenon, greatness is about leaving no questions unanswered. A Familiar Foe: Revisiting the Arman Tsarukyan Challenge Makhachev’s upcoming opponent is no stranger. Nearly five years ago, a young and unheralded Tsarukyan gave Makhachev one of the toughest fights of his career. That 2019 bout in Saint Petersburg saw Makhachev earn a unanimous decision victory, but it was far from a cakewalk. “Maybe I underestimated him,” Makhachev admitted, reflecting on their first meeting. “It was short notice, and I didn’t know him, but he gave me a hard time.” Fast forward to today, Tsarukyan is no longer the inexperienced debutant. The Armenian standout has stormed his way through the division, earning nine wins in his last ten fights, including a jaw-dropping knockout of Beneil Dariush and a split-decision triumph over Charles Oliveira. Now, he’s poised to challenge for the belt. A Legacy on the Line For Makhachev, this fight isn’t just another title defense; it’s a chance to prove why he’s the undisputed king of the lightweight division. “I like to finish the old questions,” Makhachev said, determined to show the world he’s levels above Tsarukyan. Rematches aren’t his favorite, but Makhachev sees the advantages. “When I fight someone a second time, I know everything they can do. There are no surprises,” he explained. “Arman is tough, but I’ve studied him. I know how to finish him.” And a finish is exactly what Makhachev is aiming for. Tsarukyan showed resilience against Oliveira, narrowly escaping several submissions, but Makhachev believes he has the skills to succeed where others have fallen short. “Charles almost finished him multiple times,” Makhachev remarked. “I think I have an even better chance to get it done.” What’s Next for Makhachev? With his eyes firmly set on January 18, Makhachev is already considering the future. If he defeats Tsarukyan, he hinted at a potential move to welterweight to chase a second belt. “I need a second belt. Belal [Muhammad] is there, and there are many good fighters at welterweight,” he teased. But first, he must overcome Tsarukyan, a fighter he respects as a worthy contender. “It’s going to be a huge fight for the fans,” Makhachev said. “He has all the skills—striking, wrestling, grappling. This is what makes the fight exciting.” Don’t Miss UFC 311: A Night of Answers The highly anticipated rematch headlines UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2  on January 18, 2025, live from the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California. Will Makhachev solidify his legacy, or will Tsarukyan pull off a shocking upset? Catch the action live!  Prelims start at 8 PM ET / 5 PM PT, and the main card kicks off on PPV at 10 PM ET / 7 PM PT.

Fabricio Andrade will set out to defend his ONE Bantamweight MMA World Championship for the first time at ONE 170 on Friday, January 24. Awaiting him will be a familiar foe, Kwon Won Il. The spectacular matchup will be the first of three title tilts when ONE Championship returns to Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand. The massive event will be the perfect opportunity for Andrade to step back into MMA and the win column. Andrade was last seen attempting to become a two-sport World Champion at ONE Fight Night 16 in November 2023. However, the night ended badly when Jonathan Haggerty secured a second-round knockout. In his time away, Andrade returned to Brazil and kept busy as he rehabbed injuries and hit the reset button following the loss. “But a lot happened during that time when I was not fighting. I made this documentary and then I built a house for my father. My father was living alone in Fortaleza, so I went with him to his hometown, Marco Ceará, bought a piece of land, and built a house for him there, close to his family. Since it's his hometown, he has a lot of family there, so I thought it would be better for him to be closer to his family. It was something I've wanted to do for a while, and I took advantage of this moment to build this house for him,” Andrade told ONE. Andrade and Kwon first met at ONE 158 in June 2022. Both men were enjoying incredible success and looking to punch their ticket to a title shot. 62 seconds into the match, Andrade struck fiercely and punched his ticket while sending Kwon to the back of the line. “Our fight was very quick, I managed to impose my strategy right at the beginning of the fight and managed to land a good kick that knocked him out. He's a guy who likes to talk a lot, who likes to provoke. That was something he did in our first fight and I'm expecting him to do it again,” Andrade remarked. “But I'm mentally prepared for it and I think all this trash talk just shows that he's not confident. He knows I'm dangerous, that I can knock him out at any moment. So, I think he should be more respectful. But in the fight, I will show that I am better than him. I know how to beat him, and I will knock him out or submit him.” Since losing to “Wonder Boy,” the South Korean has reeled off three straight wins on the global stage. Although Kwon is back with full momentum, Andrade claims he has not seen anything new that worries him ahead of the title defense on January 24. “What I see in his game is the same as I saw the first time I faced him. He's a guy who doesn't know how to use the good wingspan he has. He faces smaller athletes and always moves forward, so he doesn't have good distance control and doesn't use his wingspan well,” Andrade observed. “I have good distance control, and I can use that to my advantage to land strikes without him being able to counterattack. And my ground game is better than his, so at any time I can take this fight to the ground, and I'm sure I can finish him. That's another weapon I can use against him.” The Brazilian plans to use his Fight IQ in the matchup to exploit the holes he sees. Not opposed to a firefight, Andrade believes he has a more complete striking arsenal that will give Kwon problems during their match. However, should the action go to the ground, “Wonder Boy” is more than willing to use his ground game to earn the win. Either way, Andrade is seeking the finish to defend the gold and return in style. “I'm going to finish the fight, no matter what round. I'm going to look for the knockout all the time, and if I have the opportunity, I'm going to knock him out. But if I also have the opportunity to take him down and take this fight to the ground, I'm going to submit him. So, my prediction is that I'll win by submission or knockout. This fight won't go to the judges' decision,” Andrade said. ONE 170 airs live on Friday, January 24, from Impact Arena in Bangkok, Thailand, at 6:30 a.m. EST/3:30 a.m. PST.

The Professional Fighters League (PFL) has just raised the stakes in MMA! Get ready for an electrifying battle as the PFL 2025 World Tournament kicks off in April, featuring 64 world-class fighters  across eight weight classes , all vying for ultimate glory. This high-octane, single-elimination showdown promises to deliver the most intense, must-watch action in combat sports. With semi-finals slated for June and championships in August, the tournament’s five-month journey will determine who truly reigns supreme. Eight Divisions. One Ultimate Goal. Heavyweight, Light Heavyweight, Middleweight, Welterweight, Lightweight, Featherweight, Bantamweight, and Women’s Flyweight – the PFL has covered every major weight class, giving fans the thrill of watching their favorite fighters battle it out across eight stacked brackets . The challenge? Win three consecutive fights in five months  to claim the title of PFL Tournament Champion  in one of the world’s toughest MMA gauntlets. Bigger Rewards, Bigger Risks Fighters will not only face the toughest opponents in their careers but will also have a chance to win a share of the $20 million prize pool , with an additional $500,000 bonus  for each division’s champion. And here’s something new to ramp up the excitement – elbows are now officially allowed  in all tournament fights! Each round will deliver non-stop action, with the first round and semi-final bouts scheduled for three rounds  of five minutes each, and the finals going the full five rounds . Expect fireworks as the world’s top-tier fighters bring their A-game, knowing there’s no second chance – it’s one shot, win or go home . Mark Your Calendars – Key Dates First Round:  April 3, April 11, April 18, 2025 Semi-Finals:  June 12, June 20, June 27, 2025 Championships:  August 1, August 15, August 21, 2025 The brackets and matchups will be revealed in February , along with the highly anticipated roster of 64 elite fighters. Broadcast live on ESPN and ESPN+ in the U.S.  and streamed globally across 190 countries , fans worldwide can experience every heart-pounding moment in real-time. “No Greater Thrill in Sports” “The PFL World Tournament represents continued innovation, and we are thrilled to present global MMA fans with an even more exciting product,” said PFL CEO Peter Murray . “One shot, single elimination – nothing’s more thrilling in all of sports.” Stay tuned for the February reveal of the full fighter lineup and bracket matchups. MMA fans, this is the event you’ve been waiting for – one shot, eight champions, and endless glory on the line. Are you ready for PFL 2025.

Cage Warriors has today confirmed a huge title bout for its upcoming return to London, Cage Warriors 186. Featherweight Champion Harry 'Houdini' Hardwick will make the second defence of his featherweight title, when he takes on American challenger Javier 'El Mariachi' Garcia. The bout will take place over five rounds as part of the CW 186 main card on Friday, March 21st, at London's indigo at The O2. Middlesborough's Hardwick (12-3-1) comes into the bout on a career-best run of form, having compiled an eight-fight unbeaten run. He most recently saw action in November of last year, making the first defence of his title against Brazilian wrecking machine Keweny Lopes. Hardwick stopped the hard-hitting Brazilian in the championship rounds. Prior to that, the MFA project captured 145lbs gold against Orlando Wilson Prins with a first round TKO. Challenger Javier Garcia (12-5, 1NC) also comes into the contest on a respectable run of form, unbeaten as he is in five previous contests. He last strapped on the Famous Yellow Gloves of Cage Warriors in June of 2024, outpointing former title challenger Roberto Hernandez in an enthralling contest at CW 173. Since that appearance, the BJJ blackbelt defeated Mauricio Eguiluz via third round submission outside the organisation, the eighth submission of his professional MMA career. "With Cage Warriors and the UFC in town, fans are going to be anticipating a massive weekend of MMA..."  said CW President Graham Boylan.  "...so we're kicking things off with some big Friday Night Fights." "Harry Hardwick had a career-best run in 2024, but if he keeps turning in show-stopping performances, this could be the year that he truly breaks out." "Javier Garcia is coming to spoil the party though; he's got a wealth of high-level experience and is crossing the Atlantic to steal Hardwick's thunder." "I'm expecting these guys to raise the roof on March 21st!" Already announced for CW 186 are the return of Will 'Drago' Currie, who faces the debuting Eli 'The Israeli Tank' Aronov, a clash of lightweight prospects between Daniel Crooks-May and Cameron Stewart, and a middleweight showdown between Joe Middleton and Craig Rawlins. Additional bouts will be announced in the coming weeks.

Get ready for an electrifying start to 2025 as the Professional Fighters League (PFL) kicks off the new year with a blockbuster event: PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series! Streaming live exclusively in the U.S. on Max, this unmissable showdown begins at 10:30 am EST on Saturday, January 25 , delivering non-stop MMA action from Dubai’s iconic Coca-Cola Arena, nestled in the heart of the vibrant City Walk. Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes – A Rivalry Rekindled! Headlining this spectacular card is none other than the undefeated Bellator Lightweight World Champion Usman Nurmagomedov (18-0) , putting his pristine record and title on the line against Ireland’s fiery challenger Paul ‘Big News’ Hughes (13-1) . With national pride at stake, this matchup reignites the intense rivalry between Dagestan and Ireland—promising fireworks in the cage! Co-Main Event: Heavyweight Clash of Titans The co-main event features former Bellator Light Heavyweight Champion Vadim Nemkov (18-2)  stepping into the heavyweight division to face the hard-hitting former Minnesota National Guard sergeant Tim Johnson (18-10) . This bout promises high-octane action as these two titans collide in a heavyweight war. More Action-Packed Bouts to Watch Out For: Featherweight Bout:  Akhmed Magomedov (10-1) vs. Nathan Kelly (11-2) Featherweight Bout:  Ibragim Ibragimov (8-0) vs. Kenny Mokhonoana (5-1) Bantamweight Bout:  Renat Khavalov (8-0) vs. Cleiver Fernandes (9-1) Preliminary Card Highlights: Middleweight Bout:  Tarek Suleiman (13-8) vs. Ahmed Samy (11-4) Middleweight Bout:  Yakub Sulimanov (7-0) vs. Jarrah Al-Selawe (20-7) Lightweight Bout:  Mirafzal Akhtamov (7-0-1) vs. Mike Thompson (7-2) Flyweight Bout:  Hadi Omar Al Hussaini (5-1-1) vs. Ruel Pañales (5-2) Lightweight Bout:  John Mitchell (9-2) vs. Souhil Tairi (7-5-1) Middleweight Bout:  Mostafa Nada (9-3) vs. Haider Khan (8-1) A Game-Changing Partnership: Road to Dubai Begins! This monumental event marks the launch of PFL’s groundbreaking multi-year partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)  and Dubai Sports Council (DSC) . Through this collaboration, Dubai is set to become a premier destination for global MMA events, hosting world-class fights featuring the biggest stars and future champions. The “Road to Dubai” initiative will pave the way for rising Emirati fighters to showcase their talent on an international stage, with an aim to crown future PFL champions from the region. Don’t Miss Out – Join the Action Live! With a stacked fight card, heated rivalries, and the world’s top MMA talent converging in Dubai, PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series  promises to be an unforgettable night of combat sports. Mark your calendars, set your reminders, and tune in to Max on January 25  for a front-row seat to history in the making!

ONE Championship is set to light up Qatar with electrifying action at ONE 171 on Thursday, February 20, featuring two high-stakes matchups that could reshape the championship landscape. In a can't-miss showdown, former ONE Kickboxing World Champions Ilias Ennahachi and Petchtanong Petchfergus will battle it out, each determined to reclaim the throne. The stakes couldn’t be higher as these elite strikers collide in a bout that promises fireworks. Petchtanong made a thunderous comeback in June 2024, dismantling Alaverdi Ramazanov with a devastating second-round TKO after a two-year hiatus. His emphatic return catapulted him to the #3 spot in the rankings, hot on the heels of Ennahachi. Meanwhile, Ennahachi, the Dutch-Moroccan phenom, made waves in February 2023 with a jaw-dropping second-round KO against Aliasghar Ghodratisaraskan, proving his mettle in the bantamweight division. Most recently, at ONE Friday Fights 81 in September, he earned a decisive unanimous decision over Hiroki Akimoto, cementing his status as a top-tier contender. With both men eyeing gold, this pivotal clash could determine the next title challenger. But that’s not all! Brace yourself for a heavyweight slugfest as Kirill Grishenko faces off against Mauro Cerilli in a battle for divisional supremacy. Cerilli roared back into form with a stunning first-round TKO of Paul Elliott in September 2023, while Grishenko is riding high after a grueling three-round war against South Korean powerhouse Kang Ji Won in July. With both heavyweights eager to stack back-to-back wins, expect a collision that will shake the Lusail Sports Arena to its core. Don’t miss this night of must-watch action!ONE 171: Qatar airs live on Thursday, February 20, from the Lusail Sports Arena. Buckle up—it’s going to be an unforgettable ride!