Fighter Highlights – Page 9

The Top 5 UFC Rivalries Still Brewing in 2025

Posted on May 7, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Rivalries are the heart and soul of the UFC. They bring drama, emotion, and unforgettable moments, forcing fighters to prove themselves as the best. For fans, they add a personal investment in every punch, takedown, and submission attempt. In 2025, some heated rivalries continue to capture the imagination of fight fans worldwide, blending personal enmity with pure athletic brilliance.

Here, we break down five UFC rivalries still burning strong this year, blending hype, history, and high-stakes drama.

1. Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira Keep Reading

Artur Beterbiev’s Best Fights: A Career Defined by Knockouts

Posted on April 28, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Artur Beterbiev’s fights against Tavoris Cloud, Oleksandr Gvozdyk, and Joe Smith Jr. are prime examples of his knockout power and dominance. In his bout with Cloud, Beterbiev dropped him three times in the first round, setting the tone for a one-sided victory. His win against Gvozdyk unified the IBF and WBC titles, further cementing his legacy. The fight with Joe Smith Jr. at Madison Square Garden was another showcase of his brute strength and technical prowess.

With a perfect knockout ratio of 18-0 (18 KOs), Beterbiev remains one of the most feared figures in boxing. To watch these thrilling bouts, the best IPTV is the ultimate choice. Offering high-quality streaming of Beterbiev’s fights at a fraction of the cost of traditional TV, providing access to all his iconic bouts and more without the need for multiple subscriptions.

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Top 5 Fights Fans Can’t Wait to See in 2025

Posted on April 7, 2025 by A. J. Riot

As we charge into 2025, the boxing and MMA communities are practically buzzing with electricity. Fans can’t stop chattering about the matchups that might just rewrite the history books and leave us with moments we’ll replay in our heads for years. Names like Gervonta Davis, Vasyl Lomachenko, Canelo Alvarez, and David Benavidez are floating around, and the hype is unreal. The stakes couldn’t be higher—it’s that same wild rush you get when you’re placing a bet at a phone deposit casino, heart pounding as you wait to see how it all plays out. That thrill of uncertainty mirrors what’s about to unfold in the ring and octagon. So, let’s dive into the top five fights that have us all on the edge of our seats, fueled by that deep, burning love we share for combat sports. These aren’t just fights—they’re stories waiting to explode.

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Volkanovski Vs Lopes and Other Highly Anticipated Fights in MMA History

Posted on April 6, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Why Rivalries Are the Heart of MMA

Beyond the skill of the fighters, one of the things that keeps viewers glued to the press conferences and engaging with MMA content on social media is the rivalries. Rivalries draw attention. This is not just for ardent MMA fans but even outside the existing fan base. They create intricate and emotional stories that light up social media platforms. With rivalries, it’s not just about the rift between the fighters but the anticipation it creates for the game.

Rivalries are important to MMA because the personal stakes that the fighters have pushed them to exceed their limits. The drive to outperform the opponent is heightened and makes fights more intense and memorable. It also brings fans along on the journey. Fights are not just for entertainment. Fans can connect with their favorite fighter’s story, making every fight feel personal. Because of this, online betting platforms like GGBET allow every fan to have more skin in the game and be part of their favorite fighter’s victories.

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The Two Biggest Fights the UFC Could Make Right Now

Posted on March 31, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Source: Unsplash

The octagon has seen its fair share of historic clashes, moments that leave fans breathless and set the sport’s trajectory for years to come. We all remember Conor McGregor’s iconic slugfest opposite Nate Diaz, as well as Anderson Silva’s thrilling back-and-forth affairs against the brash Chael Sonnen. Right now, there is a pool of elite talent across divisions and the matchmaking possibilities feel endless, but there can be no denying that the UFC lacks the star power it once had.

It seems like the Notorious One’s return to the cage will never materialize, while the days of a superstar such as Ronda Rousey are long gone. Add to that the fact that perhaps the most popular fighter in the company recently lost his title, namely Alex Pereira with that disappointing defeat to Magomed Ankalaev, and it’s reasonable to conclude that those big show-stopping fights that make the earth stand still may well be a thing of the past.

But they don’t have to be. Yes, the stars have dried up somewhat, but there are still some blockbuster fights that could be made if all parties can come to an agreement. Here are the two that we feel have the biggest drawing power in 2025.

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Biggest Ranking Climbers of Early 2025

Posted on March 20, 2025 by A. J. Riot

The first quarter of 2025 has already delivered seismic shifts in the MMA world, with several fighters making significant leaps in the rankings. Among them, Joaquin Buckley and Umar Nurmagomedov have emerged as standout names, redefining their respective divisions through exceptional performances and strategic career moves. These athletes are not just climbing the rankings—they’re reshaping the competitive world of modern MMA.

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Michael Chandler: Tennessee’s MMA Powerhouse and UFC Star

Posted on March 1, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Michael Chandler is one of the most explosive and dynamic fighters in mixed martial arts history. With an impressive wrestling background, heavy hands, and relentless pace, he has cemented his place among the elite of the lightweight division.

From his early days in Missouri to becoming a champion in Bellator and a top contender in the UFC, Chandler’s career is a testament to perseverance, hard work, and elite-level athleticism.

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Interview with Hailey Pennington, Professional Boxer and Entrepreneur

Posted on February 22, 2025 by Heather

Introduction

Hailey Pennington (2-0-0, 2KOs) is a professional boxer and has accomplished quite a bit with hard work and discipline. Currently, she has several business ventures, besides boxing. For instance she owns her gym, is a trainer/coach, as well as a promoter. I am certain that she is likely a mentor to others. Especially, with being young and having many business endeavors. Hailey is a wonderful person for the younger generation to look up to. She has a proven track record with success. Hailey is thriving as a woman, in the combat sports industry in 2025.

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Heather

Combat Sports & Martial Arts Writer| Partnership Marketing and Digital Strategy Lead (Combat Sports)
I have been an avid viewer of Boxing and MMA for decades. Judo is the martial art that I most admire. At different periods in my life, I have practiced Judo. This piqued my interest in MMA since 2001. I had a 25 year career in healthcare, and now I am pursuing my hobby. I enjoy writing about combat sports and martial arts for FightMatrix.

www.fightmatrix.com

Henry Cejudo vs Song Yadong: Triple C to Get Back on Track?

Posted on January 29, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Two top-tier bantamweights Henry Cejudo and Song Yadong will step into the Octagon in the main event of UFC Fight Night 252, at the Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle on Saturday, February 22.

Fans are eagerly anticipating what promises to be an exciting matchup, with the best sports betting sites gearing up to provide competitive odds for the bout.

Following back-to-back losses against Aljamain Sterling and Merab Dvalishvili, Cejudo will be looking to restore his winning reputation. Before those defeats, Triple C was on a six-fight win streak taking out some big names such as Dominick Cruz, Marlon Moraes, TJ Dillashaw and Demetrious Johnson.

Meanwhile, Song is also focused on getting back to his best after losing to Petr Yan at UFC 299. Before that, Kung Fu Kid was on a two-fight win streak following victories over Ricky Simon and Chris Gutierrez.

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The Mayweather Collection: A Peek Into the Lavish Lifestyle of Floyd Mayweather

Posted on January 26, 2025 by A. J. Riot

Floyd Mayweather, renowned for his unbeaten boxing record and larger-than-life persona, has consistently captured global attention both inside and outside the ring. Beyond his athletic achievements, one of the defining aspects of Mayweather’s public image is his extravagant lifestyle, showcased most prominently through his luxurious collection of cars, watches, and other assets. Dubbed “The Mayweather Collection,” this assemblage symbolizes opulence, success, and a relentless pursuit of the finer things in life.

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Conor McGregor’s Anticipated Return to the Octagon in Early 2025

Posted on January 23, 2025 by A. J. Riot

https://unsplash.com/photos/pair-of-red-and-black-title-training-gloves-on-grey-wooden-plank-WwrQnL0Gi1c

Conor McGregor, the former UFC two-division champion, is set to make his long-awaited return to the octagon in early 2025. This comeback follows a hiatus that began after his loss to Dustin Poirier in July 2021, when he suffered a significant leg injury. UFC President Dana White has confirmed that McGregor is preparing for a return, with potential opponents being discussed.

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Exclusive Interview with Professional Boxer Shauna O’Keeffe

Posted on January 10, 2025 by Heather

Introduction

Ireland has its very own beautiful and talented rising star, who happens to be an excellent professional boxer by the name of Shauna O’Keeffe (5-0, 3 KOs). She is ranked # 1 in the women’s lightweight division for her country, and #17 in the world. It has been incredible to watch her passion come out when she fights. She seems like a well composed and focused athlete. Following Shauna’s impeccable progress and writing about it along the way, has really encouraged me in wanting to write and learn more about boxing. She is an inspiration to an abundance of other women in the sports industry and beyond. Shauna O’Keeffe is a remarkable woman and a bad-ass fighter. She has had help with becoming more of a decorated boxer with the help of Ilker Furat. As he has been there to advise her Ilker Furat and help developer into becoming a better boxer than she already was. Let’s take a deeper look into Shauna’s life.

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Heather

www.fightmatrix.com

Exclusive Interview with 2024 FightMatrix Rookie of the Year, Thomas Gantt

Posted on January 6, 2025 by Oleg

Introduction

[#302 WW] Thomas Gantt (9-0, 1 NC) is a 31-year old professional MMA athelete, fighting out of North Carolina. He is also the recipient of the 2024 FightMatrix.com rookie of the year award. The primary reason for Gantt claiming this award is his incredible schedule in his first year as a pro. He has fought in nine professional bouts in 2024, winning eight of them, and receiving one No Contest due to an unintentional knee to the head of a downed opponent. Including his three amateur fights in the same year before beginning his pro career, Gantt has fought a total of twelve times in a calendar year. He has already fought and won once in 2025, and we are only 6 days into the year! Keep reading to learn more about Tommy Gantt and his journey.

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Jon Jones Reflects on His Career Path and the Evolution of MMA

Posted on December 30, 2024 by A. J. Riot

Man in red hoodie and black pants playing guitar photo – Free Lithuania Image on Unsplash

Jon Jones, one of the most decorated fighters in MMA history, recently reflected on a career path he might have taken if he hadn’t pursued professional fighting. Speaking on the Alex G Was Here YouTube channel while test-driving a Bugatti, the UFC heavyweight champion revealed that he had initially envisioned a very different life for himself—one rooted in service and protection. Jones shared that he was deeply interested in joining the military or working in law enforcement, driven by a desire to help others and, in his words, “be a hero.”

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The Top 7 Highest-Paid Boxers

Posted on December 20, 2024 by A. J. Riot

Considered the third highest-paid sport in the world according to GambleOntario.ca, boxing gave birth to some of the richest sportspersons ever, while their earnings are as stunning as their knockouts. Starting off with the king on this list, here are the seven highest-paid boxers who ever lived.

Floyd Mayweather

As for the best-paid sportsmen, few could compete with Floyd “Money” Mayweather. Born in Grand Rapids, Michigan, on February 24, 1977, Mayweather is boxing’s undisputed king of pay-per-view and guaranteed payouts.

The Mayweather career is marked by perfection: 50 wins, 0 losses and incomparable skill inside the ring. Defensive mastery and precision made Mayweather be referred to as “TBE”, the best ever. Not only did skills make a fortune, but Mayweather also made sure business acumen created his fortune. He negotiated his own contracts, one reason being the creation of Mayweather Promotions to make sure he took home the lion’s share of revenue after every fight.

The 2015 bout against Manny Pacquiao was billed as the “Fight of the Century,” a title fight that raked in more than $600 million in revenue. Mayweather’s personal take from the fight? A cool $250 million. Still not satisfied, Mayweather took on MMA superstar Conor McGregor in 2017, a crossover fight that earned him a really impressive $300 million.

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