Joe Rogan: It's a 'real tragedy' that Francis Ngannou left UFC

The excitement is building for the upcoming UFC event in Vancouver, where top middleweight contender Reinier de Ridder will face off against No. 11-ranked Brendan Allen on October 18, 2025. This match is crucial for de Ridder as he aims for a title shot, making it a must-watch for MMA fans. The event will take place at the iconic Rogers Arena, promising an electrifying atmosphere and showcasing the best of mixed martial arts.

In a surprising update, UFC boss Dana White revealed that Conor McGregor currently weighs 145 pounds, sparking speculation about a potential return to the featherweight division. This news is significant as it could indicate McGregor's interest in competing again, potentially revitalizing his career and the featherweight category. Fans are eager to see if this weight change will lead to an official announcement about his next fight.

The anticipated partnership between UFC and Netflix has not materialized as expected, leaving fans and analysts curious about the reasons behind the delay. TKO chief Mark Shapiro sheds light on the situation, suggesting that while the idea seemed promising, various factors may have influenced the decision. This news is significant as it highlights the complexities of media deals in the sports industry and the ongoing search for the right platform to showcase UFC content.

The UFC is gearing up for an exciting event with UFC Vegas 112 set for December 13th, featuring a highly anticipated matchup between rising Czech flyweight star Tereza Bleda and Canada's Jamey-Lyn Horth. This clash is particularly significant as it marks their first meeting after a previous bout was postponed earlier this year. Fans are eager to see how Bleda, known for her impressive skills, will perform against Horth, who is also making waves in the flyweight division.

Mansur Abdul-Malik, a rising star in the middleweight division, is gearing up for an exciting matchup against seasoned Brazilian fighter Antonio Trocoli at UFC 323 on December 6, 2025, in Las Vegas. This event is particularly significant as it marks the last pay-per-view card of the current UFC broadcast era, creating a buzz among fans and fighters alike. The clash promises to showcase Abdul-Malik's potential against Trocoli's experience, making it a must-watch for MMA enthusiasts.

Mario Bautista is feeling cautiously optimistic as he prepares for his first trip outside the U.S. in over 20 years for UFC 321. This marks a significant milestone in his career, as he has never fought internationally before. Bautista's journey is not just about the fight; it's a personal achievement that reflects his growth as an athlete and his readiness to take on new challenges. Fans are excited to see how he performs on this international stage, making it a noteworthy event in the UFC calendar.

UFC 322 is gearing up to be an exciting event at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025, featuring a highly anticipated matchup between Roman Kopylov and Gregory Rodrigues. This card is being hailed as one of the most talent-rich of the year, with two title fights and several ranked bouts, making it a must-watch for fight fans. The significance of this event lies not only in the high stakes of the fights but also in the prestige of hosting it in New York City, a historic venue for the UFC.

Ariel Helwani has made it clear that his relationship with UFC president Dana White is beyond repair, despite a light-hearted comment made during a recent podcast. This revelation is significant as it highlights ongoing tensions in the MMA community, particularly between prominent figures. Helwani's candidness about their fractured relationship sheds light on the complexities of media and promotion in the sport, and fans are left wondering how this will affect future interactions and coverage.

Julianna Peña, the former two-time UFC champion, has revealed that her return to the octagon is uncertain due to ongoing injuries, with a potential comeback not expected until 2026 at the earliest. This news is significant as it highlights the challenges athletes face in recovering from injuries and the impact it has on their careers, especially for a prominent figure like Peña.

The MMA community is mourning the loss of Thomas Gerbasi, the beloved editorial director of UFC.com, who passed away at the age of 57. Known for his contributions to combat sports journalism and as a mentor to many, Gerbasi's death has left a significant void in the industry. His impact on the sport and the people within it was profound, and the outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues alike highlights just how much he meant to the community.

Exciting news for MMA fans as Steven Asplund, a newly-signed heavyweight, is set to make his UFC debut against Sean Sharaf at UFC Vegas 112 on December 13, 2025. This matchup promises to be thrilling, showcasing the talents of two rising fighters in the Octagon. The event will take place at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, a venue known for hosting high-stakes bouts. Asplund's entry into the UFC is highly anticipated, and this fight could be a significant step in his career, making it a must-watch for fans.

In a recent statement, TKO president Mark Shapiro explained why Netflix was unable to secure the rights to UFC events. This revelation is significant as it highlights the competitive landscape of sports broadcasting and the challenges streaming platforms face in acquiring popular sports content. Understanding these dynamics can provide insights into the future of sports media and how fans consume their favorite events.

Disney's recent decision to pull Jimmy Kimmel from its programming has sparked speculation about a potential deal with the NFL. This move raises questions about the future of late-night television and how major networks are adapting to changing viewer preferences. As Disney navigates its strategy, the implications for both sports broadcasting and entertainment could be significant, making it a topic worth following closely.

Hull Kingston Rovers have clinched the League Leaders' Shield after a thrilling comeback victory against Warrington Wolves. This win not only highlights their resilience but also positions them strongly for the upcoming playoffs, making it a significant achievement in their season.

Week 4 of college football is shaping up to be exciting, following a thrilling Week 3. With several final non-conference games on the horizon, fans can look forward to some major matchups. The primetime schedule is particularly noteworthy, featuring prominent games that will showcase top teams and talented announcers. This is a crucial time in the season as teams prepare for conference play, making these games essential for fans and players alike.

Luka Dončić lightened the mood at his introductory press conference by joking about Rob Pelinka's bold leather jacket. This playful interaction not only showcases Dončić's personality but also highlights the camaraderie and fun atmosphere surrounding the event, making it memorable for fans and media alike.

Urban Meyer recently shared his thoughts on his rivalry with Jim Harbaugh, emphasizing that he holds no ill will towards the former Michigan coach. This perspective is significant as it highlights a more amicable side to a rivalry that has often been marked by tension, suggesting that even fierce competitors can respect one another.

The Chicago Bears are struggling at the start of the 2025 NFL season, currently sitting at 0-2 after tough losses to the Minnesota Vikings and the Detroit Lions. Veteran player Grady Jarrett has responded to head coach Ben Johnson's critique of practice habits, highlighting the challenges the team faces in this new era. This situation is significant as it reflects the growing pains of a team trying to find its footing under new leadership, and fans are eager to see if they can turn things around.