Lionel Rivera's MMA Podcast

PODCAST · sports

Lionel Rivera's MMA Podcast

Lionel Rivera is an MMA content creator who makes thoughtful, long-form documentaries on UFC fighters, MMA legends, and the history of fighting.These documentaries are made for hardcore & casual MMA fans alike. Whether you came for the violent tales of modern-era favorites like Alex Pereira, Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev – or you came for the rich histories of old-school MMA legends like Bas Rutten and Don Frye, this is the place for you.My goal is to make more MMA fans & better MMA fans. Enjoy.

  1. 45

    Why Losing Destroyed Ronda Rousey

    #UFC #UFCdocumentary #RondaRouseyRonda Jean Rousey arrived in mixed martial arts as something the sport had never seen — a world-class judoka with Olympic pedigree, an unshakable will to dominate, and a personality that transcended the cage. A bronze medalist at the 2008 Beijing Olympics in judo, Rousey transitioned from the mat to the cage in 2011 and immediately made an impact, submitting every early opponent she faced by armbar with terrifying efficiency.Rousey's professional career began at King of the Cage, where she submitted Ediane Gomes in 25 seconds. A quick victory over Charmaine Tweet followed before she signed with Strikeforce, where she defeated Sarah D'Alelio and Julia Budd — dislocating Budd's elbow in the process. That run of dominance earned her a title shot against Miesha Tate for the Strikeforce Women's Bantamweight Championship in March 2012. Rousey submitted Tate via armbar in the first round, capturing the title and igniting one of the sport's most heated rivalries. A dominant first-round defense against Sarah Kaufman cemented her as the most dangerous woman in combat sports.In November 2012, Rousey became the first female fighter signed by the UFC and was named the inaugural UFC Women's Bantamweight Champion. Her promotional debut at UFC 157 against Liz Carmouche marked the first women's bout in UFC history. Despite being caught in an early standing neck crank, Rousey submitted Carmouche via armbar in the first round. A rematch with Miesha Tate at UFC 168 went deeper — Tate survived early submission attempts before Rousey locked in the armbar in the third round.Then came a record-setting run of devastation: a first-round TKO of Olympic wrestler Sara McMann via knee at UFC 170, a 16-second knockout of Alexis Davis at UFC 175, a 14-second armbar of Cat Zingano at UFC 184 — at the time the fastest title fight in UFC history — and a 34-second knockout of Bethe Correia at UFC 190 in Brazil. Across six UFC title defenses, Rousey spent a combined 1,077 seconds inside the Octagon. No champion in any division had ever been that dominant in that little time. Rousey transcended the sport, appearing on magazine covers, talk shows, and Hollywood films. ESPN fans voted her the best female athlete of all time.The aura of invincibility shattered at UFC 193 when Holly Holm outclassed Rousey on the feet and knocked her out with a devastating head kick in the second round. The loss reverberated far beyond the sport. After more than a year away, Rousey returned at UFC 207 to face Amanda Nunes for the bantamweight title. Nunes overwhelmed her with punches, finishing the fight by TKO 48 seconds into the first round.Rousey stepped away from MMA with a professional record of 12-2, nine wins by armbar, three by knockout, and both losses by stoppage. She was inducted into the UFC Hall of Fame in 2018 — the first woman to receive the honor.After nearly a decade away from the cage, Rousey announced her return to MMA in 2026 for a long-awaited superfight against fellow pioneer Gina Carano. The bout is set for May 16, 2026, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, headlining the first-ever live MMA event on Netflix and the inaugural MMA card from Most Valuable Promotions. Contested at featherweight under the Unified Rules of MMA, the fight represents the collision of the two women most responsible for putting women's MMA on the global map.More than any statistic or accolade, Rousey's legacy is the door she kicked open, proving that women's MMA belonged on the biggest stage and forever changing the landscape of combat sports.

  2. 44

    The GOAT the UFC Fumbled: Fedor Emelianenko

    If you're ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch. To start your claim, visit: https://forthepeople.com/lionel🎬 Videos you'll like:✅ Dan Severn Documentary: https://youtu.be/rztXALuUHFg✅ Mark Kerr Documentary: https://youtu.be/ZaqvsUEx_fU✅ Don Frye Documentary: https://youtu.be/PYriU5WtqMY👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera#UFC #UFCdocumentary #FedorEmelianenkoFedor Emelianenko began training in combat sambo and judo as a teenager in Stary Oskol, Russia, earning a Master of Sports distinction before transitioning into professional mixed martial arts in 2000. After early victories in regional competition, Fedor entered the RINGS promotion and established himself with wins over Renato Sobral and Chris Haseman. A bout against Tsuyoshi Kohsaka ended in a controversial doctor stoppage loss due to a cut from an illegal elbow — a result that would later be widely debated given Fedor's dominance in the fight.Fedor's career reached its apex in Pride Fighting Championships. A dominant first-round TKO of Heath Herring earned him a shot at heavyweight champion Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira. Fedor dethroned Nogueira by unanimous decision, absorbing the Brazilian's best submission attempts while delivering relentless ground-and-pound. The reign that followed was historic. Fedor defended the Pride Heavyweight Championship against Kazuyuki Fujita, Mark Coleman, Kevin Randleman, Mirko Cro Cop, and Nogueira again in a rematch. The Randleman fight became iconic — slammed on his head with a devastating suplex, Fedor immediately reversed position and submitted Randleman with a kimura. The Cro Cop victory, against the most feared striker in heavyweight history, cemented Fedor as the consensus number one heavyweight in the world. He also won the 2004 Pride Heavyweight Grand Prix, stopping three opponents in a single night.Despite being universally regarded as the best heavyweight alive, Fedor never competed in the UFC. Prolonged negotiations between his management and the UFC collapsed over contract terms, co-promotion demands, and exclusivity disputes — a saga that defined an entire era of heavyweight MMA and remains one of the sport's great what-ifs.Following Pride's closure, Fedor competed under Affliction and Strikeforce banners. He stopped former UFC champion Tim Sylvia in 36 seconds and knocked out Andrei Arlovski with a flying knee to punch combination. A submission loss to Fabricio Werdum in 2010 snapped a historic unbeaten streak that spanned nearly a decade. Losses to Antônio Silva and Dan Henderson followed. Fedor returned years later under Bellator, knocking out Frank Mir, Chael Sonnen, and Rampage Jackson before closing his career with a knockout of Timothy Johnson.Fedor's record of 40-7 with one no contest barely captures the magnitude of what he accomplished. A decorated sambo world champion, four-time combat sambo world champion, and Pride Heavyweight Grand Prix winner, Fedor dominated an era when the heavyweight division was at its deepest across multiple organizations. Quiet, stoic, and devastatingly powerful, he carried himself with a humility that stood in stark contrast to his violence inside the ring.MB01P95CXYMR9YWMB01ML27HT5KU0DMB01RXZDGKVESLY

  3. 43

    Why Merab Accidentally Became the GOAT

    Start your free trial of Odoo’s all-in-one business solution and see how it can make your life easier! Check it out at: https://www.odoo.com/r/k68     ✅ GSP Documentary: https://youtu.be/CvFIH0T5VJQ     ✅ Khabib Documentary: https://youtu.be/tL6UyybbgYE     ✅ Islam Documentary: https://youtu.be/BA8YoWuuuiI     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraMerab Dvalishvili’s rise from Georgian sambo and judo standout to UFC bantamweight king is one of the most remarkable chapters in modern MMA history. After dominating the regional circuit and earning a UFC contract in 2017, The Machine quickly became known for his unrelenting pace and suffocating wrestling. Early setbacks against fighters like Frankie Saenz and Ricky Simón only sharpened his resolve, and by stringing together impressive wins over the likes of Brad Katona, John Dodson, Marlon Moraes, and José Aldo, Dvalishvili positioned himself as an unavoidable contender in the stacked 135‑pound division. That ascent culminated in September 2024 at UFC 306, where Dvalishvili faced the flamboyant bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley. In a tactical five‑round battle, Merab’s pace, grappling dominance, and cardio earned him a unanimous decision victory to become the UFC Bantamweight Champion, marking the first world title of his career.Once champion, Dvalishvili proved unstoppable throughout 2025. His first title defense came in January at UFC 311 against previously undefeated contender Umar Nurmagomedov. Displaying his trademark wrestling and ceaseless pressure, Merab controlled the fight en route to a unanimous decision and not only retained his belt but set a new UFC record for most career takedowns, underlining his wrestling supremacy.In June 2025 at UFC 316, Dvalishvili welcomed back former foe Sean O’Malley in a highly anticipated rematch. This time, The Machine finished the fight in dramatic fashion, securing a third‑round submission via north‑south choke and earning a Performance of the Night bonus for his relentless effort. Continuing his historic run, Merab’s third title defense came in October at UFC 320 against perennial contender Cory Sandhagen. Once again, his pace and pressure suffocated Sandhagen’s offense, resulting in a unanimous decision victory and further cementing his dominance atop the division. With three defenses already to his name, Dvalishvili chased history at UFC 323 in December 2025. A rematch with former champion Petr Yan — a rival he had previously beaten in 2023 — put Merab on the verge of becoming the first UFC champion to attempt four successful title defenses in a single calendar year. In a grueling five‑round main event in Las Vegas, Dvalishvili’s relentless pressure met Yan’s precision striking and improved takedown defense. Though Merab showed his trademark toughness — refusing to quit even after taking significant damage — Petr Yan reclaimed the UFC Bantamweight Championship via unanimous decision, ending Dvalishvili’s historic reign. Despite the loss, Merab Dvalishvili’s title run stands as one of the most productive in bantamweight history. He redefined what relentless wrestling and fight pace could accomplish at the highest level, broke all‑time takedown records, and delivered memorable performances against elite opponents. His willingness to repeatedly uphold the division’s toughest challenges — including springing for four title fights in a year — speaks to his warrior spirit and unyielding competitive fire. As the bantamweight landscape evolves heading into 2026, The Machine remains a defining figure whose legacy of toughness, discipline, and tactical excellence will be remembered as a benchmark for champions to come. 

  4. 42

    Lost His Eye...Became UFC Champion | Michael Bisping Documentary

    Start your free trial of Odoo’s all-in-one business solution and see how it can make your life easier! Check it out at: https://www.odoo.com/r/49s     ✅ GSP Documentary: https://youtu.be/CvFIH0T5VJQ     ✅ Anderson Silva Documentary: https://youtu.be/-uSCsGFLe3g     ✅ Mighty Mouse Documentary: https://youtu.be/_c53Fer1WVo     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera#UFC #UFCdocumentary #MichaelBispingMichael “The Count” Bisping stands as one of the most resilient, determined, and inspirational fighters in UFC history. Born in Cyprus and raised in England, Bisping came from humble beginnings before carving his place in mixed martial arts through the UK’s early regional circuits. A pioneer of British MMA, he built his name with Cage Rage and Cage Warriors appearances, becoming one of the first UK fighters to gain international recognition. His breakthrough came in 2006 when he won Season 3 of The Ultimate Fighter, defeating Josh Haynes in the finale with a blistering TKO that secured his UFC contract and announced him as a force in the light heavyweight division.Bisping’s early UFC career saw victories over Eric Schafer, Elvis Sinosic, and Matt Hamill, before moving to middleweight where his legacy would truly be written. He quickly established himself with wins over Jason Day and Chris Leben, but his momentum was halted by Dan Henderson at UFC 100 in one of the most iconic knockouts in UFC history. Despite this setback, Bisping refused to fade into the background.Over the years, he consistently faced elite competition: Wanderlei Silva, Yoshihiro Akiyama, Jorge Rivera, Chael Sonnen, and Vitor Belfort, often serving as the UFC’s go-to headliner for European cards. His rivalry with Rivera showcased his biting wit, while his fight with Belfort introduced one of the greatest personal challenges of his career—an eye injury that would later define his resilience. Despite fighting much of his career with compromised vision, Bisping never used it as an excuse.The defining chapter of Bisping’s journey came in 2016. After years of being labeled the perennial contender who couldn’t win the big one, he shocked the world by defeating Anderson Silva in London in a thrilling five-round war. That performance positioned him for a short-notice title shot against Luke Rockhold at UFC 199. Stepping in with just 17 days’ notice, Bisping avenged a prior loss and knocked out Rockhold in the first round to become the UFC Middleweight Champion—cementing his place in history as the first British fighter to win UFC gold.As champion, he defended his title against his old rival Dan Henderson at UFC 204 in Manchester, avenging his past defeat in front of a hometown crowd. Although he later lost the belt to Georges St-Pierre at UFC 217 and was defeated by Kelvin Gastelum shortly after, Bisping had already achieved what many thought impossible.Beyond the octagon, Bisping became an ambassador for UK MMA and an inspiration for fighters worldwide. His career is a testament to perseverance: from being written off after crushing defeats to defying odds with one eye to capture UFC gold. Today, his legacy extends beyond fighting, as he thrives as a UFC commentator, actor, and motivational figure.Michael Bisping’s story is not just about becoming champion—it’s about grit, belief, and never giving up. His journey paved the way for future British stars, proving that with determination, the impossible can be achieved.Hall of the Mountain King by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/MB01GLZMGOCIIRQ

  5. 41

    Why Jiri Prochazka Aura-Farms the UFC

    Start your free trial of Odoo’s all-in-one business solution and see how it can make your life easier! Check it out at: https://www.odoo.com/r/N5A🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Alex Pereira Documentary: https://youtu.be/dW92qYrR9Vw     ✅ Alex Pereira Part 2 Doc: https://youtu.be/gOqRnA2M_r4     ✅ Mighy Mouse Doc: https://youtu.be/_c53Fer1WVo👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera🛍️ Shop UFC Gear: https://amzn.to/4aMBnhJ#UFC #UFCdocumentary #JiriProchazkaBefore his rise to UFC stardom, Jiří “Denisa” Procházka had already achieved cult status in Japan’s Rizin Fighting Federation, where his blend of unorthodox striking, fearless aggression, and philosophical calm made him one of the most captivating fighters outside the UFC. Born in Brno, Czech Republic, Procházka’s journey began in the Czech regional scene, where he competed in Gladiator Fighting Championship and quickly became known for his knockout power and eccentric personality. In Rizin, he captured the Light Heavyweight Championship in 2019 after avenging his only loss in the promotion to Muhammed “King Mo” Lawal, knocking him out in the first round and solidifying his status as one of the most dangerous 205-pounders on the planet.By the time Jiří joined the UFC in 2020, he brought with him a 23–3–1 record and a reputation for breathtaking finishes. His debut came against former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir at UFC 251, where he delivered a devastating second-round knockout that instantly made him a fan favorite. His follow-up performance against Dominick Reyes at UFC Vegas 25 was nothing short of spectacular — a wild, back-and-forth war that ended with a spinning back elbow knockout, earning “Fight of the Year” and “Knockout of the Year” honors.That victory propelled him into a title fight against Glover Teixeira at UFC 275 in Singapore, a bout that would go down as one of the greatest light heavyweight fights in UFC history. For five rounds, both men traded punishing strikes and submission attempts in a display of pure heart and resilience. In the closing moments of the fifth round, Procházka secured a rear-naked choke — his first career submission — to become the first Czech-born UFC Champion. His victory was not only historic but symbolic of his Bushido-inspired mindset: victory achieved through perseverance, respect, and spirit.Tragically, a serious shoulder injury later that year forced Jiří to vacate the title without defending it. After a long recovery, he returned at UFC 295 in November 2023 to face Alex Pereira for the vacant championship. Despite a strong showing, Procházka was defeated by second-round TKO after a flurry from the Brazilian powerhouse. True to form, Jiří handled the loss with humility and deep respect, praising Pereira’s skill and character.Procházka’s comeback trail continued in 2024 when he faced Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 320. The bout was an intense showcase of precision and power. After weathering early adversity, Jiří landed a brutal third-round knockout, proving that he remained one of the most dangerous light heavyweights in the world. The win not only reestablished him as a top contender but also demonstrated his commitment to evolution and discipline following adversity.Following that performance, Jiří displayed the spiritual depth that separates him from most fighters. After Alex Pereira successfully reclaimed his title against Magomed Ankalaev, Jiří was visibly emotional — not out of bitterness, but in admiration for Pereira’s heart and fighting spirit. It was a powerful moment that encapsulated who Jiří Procházka is at his core: a warrior who fights not out of anger or ego, but out of reverence for the art of combat itself.

  6. 40

    Why UFC’s 1st Wrestler Ragdolled Everyone: Dan Severn

    Use Code LIONEL for $10 off Your First Order for Stack Multivitamins: https://www.phi.health/lionel🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Don Frye Documentary: https://youtu.be/PYriU5WtqMY     ✅ Bas Rutten Documentary: https://youtu.be/F9DYeFsLG04     ✅ Royce Gracie Documentary: https://youtu.be/xSleiUQXfpo     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera#UFC #UFCdocumentary #DanSevernDan “The Beast” Severn is one of the true pioneers of mixed martial arts, bridging the gap between amateur wrestling dominance and the birth of modern cage fighting. A two-time All-American and NCAA Division I wrestling champion at Arizona State University, Severn first made his mark on the world stage as a U.S. Olympic Trials competitor and international Greco-Roman wrestler before stepping into the Ultimate Fighting Championship in 1994. His arrival brought legitimacy to wrestling as one of MMA’s most effective base disciplines.Severn debuted at UFC 4 in December 1994, immediately showcasing his raw grappling power. He submitted Anthony Macias and Marcus Bossett before meeting Royce Gracie in the finals. Though ultimately caught in a triangle choke, Severn’s dominant top control proved that wrestling could neutralize other martial arts. His performance set the tone for the wrestler’s role in early UFC.At UFC 5, Severn stormed through Joe Charles and Oleg Taktarov in the tournament before meeting Ken Shamrock in the “Superfight Championship.” In a grueling contest, Shamrock edged Severn via guillotine choke. However, Severn bounced back at UFC 6, capturing the tournament crown by defeating Joe Charles, Oleg Taktarov, and Tank Abbott in one night. This tournament win elevated him to a rematch with Shamrock at UFC 9, one of the most controversial bouts in MMA history. The two men engaged in a cautious, largely uneventful affair that went to decision, with Severn winning the UFC Superfight Championship.Severn then defended his place among the elite by facing the rising Brazilian jiu-jitsu star Don Frye at UFC 10, where Frye submitted him. Still, Severn’s contributions and reputation earned him the opportunity to fight for the inaugural UFC Heavyweight Championship at UFC 12, though his reign was cut short after a loss to Mark Coleman.Beyond the UFC, Severn built a legendary record across multiple organizations, fighting in PRIDE, SuperBrawl, and numerous regional promotions, amassing more than 100 professional MMA bouts—a staggering number for his era. His style was simple but brutally effective: takedowns, smothering top pressure, and relentless control. He continued competing well into his 50s, an unmatched career longevity that cemented his place in history.Severn’s legacy goes beyond his wins and losses. He was one of the first wrestlers to prove that amateur wrestling could translate directly into MMA dominance. His rivalries with Ken Shamrock, Royce Gracie, and Oleg Taktarov defined the UFC’s earliest years. With his trademark mustache, stone-faced demeanor, and relentless work ethic, “The Beast” became one of the sport’s most recognizable pioneers.Dan Severn leaves behind a legacy as both an innovator and a trailblazer, helping lay the foundation for future generations of wrestlers who would dominate the Octagon. His courage to step into uncharted territory made him an enduring figure in the story of the UFC.0:00 - What does that do?2:47 - Who is this guy?4:05 - Curveball5:32 - What are your skills?8:43 - Kindlewood13:37 - Stack14:46 - The Beast16:30 - The Bear18:42 - Gold20:10 - Dead End22:42 - Dusted Off23:45 - Tanked26:20 - Keep Moving28:22 - Man of Men30:21 - Hi There33:51 - Triple Crown35:20 - 101-19-737:49 - Could he be...?39:57 - Whispers42:00 - How do you respond?

  7. 39

    UFC's Misunderstood Gangster: Nick Diaz

    🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ GSP Documentary: https://youtu.be/CvFIH0T5VJQ     ✅ Anderson Silva Documentary: https://youtu.be/-uSCsGFLe3g     ✅ Sean Strickland Documentary: https://youtu.be/WQEtjfD5iXg     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera#UFC #UFCdocumentary #NickDiazNick Diaz is one of the most polarizing, beloved, and uncompromising figures in MMA history—equal parts cult icon and warrior. Known for his unfiltered personality, iron chin, relentless pace, and elite jiu-jitsu, Diaz’s career was defined not only by his fights but by his refusal to conform to the sport’s mainstream expectations. He built a legacy on authenticity, volume striking, and a “kill or be killed” mindset that resonated with fans across generations.Before arriving on the UFC’s biggest stage, Nick Diaz made waves in regional promotions like IFC and WEC. He captured attention early with a triangle choke victory over Jeremy Jackson—whom he would defeat again in the UFC—and a legendary win over Chris Lytle in the WEC. Diaz’s early battles sharpened his jiu-jitsu, refined his volume-based boxing style, and laid the groundwork for a fearless approach against top-tier opposition.Diaz made his UFC debut at UFC 44 in 2003, defeating Jeremy Jackson via armbar. He followed it with a victory over Drew Fickett but faced a tough setback against Karo Parisyan at UFC 49. Diaz bounced back with a brutal KO of Robbie Lawler at UFC 47, a win that remains one of the most replayed knockouts in UFC history. He then faced rising contenders like Diego Sanchez and Joe Riggs, losing both via decision, but delivering unforgettable performances. His fight with Riggs was so heated that it spilled into a hospital brawl afterward—adding to Diaz’s growing legend.After a controversial doctor stoppage loss to Sean Sherk and a submission win over Josh Neer, Diaz’s UFC run slowed, and he transitioned to PRIDE and later EliteXC, where he faced Takanori Gomi in one of MMA’s most legendary fights. Though initially ruled a No Contest due to a positive marijuana test, Diaz submitted Gomi via gogoplata in what is widely regarded as one of the most iconic moments in MMA history.He claimed the inaugural Strikeforce Welterweight Championship in 2010. His dominance in Strikeforce, combined with his growing fan base, demanded a UFC return.Diaz returned to the UFC in 2011 at UFC 137, defeating BJ Penn. Then lost to Carlos Condit for the interim title.In 2013, Diaz finally got his shot at GSP for the undisputed UFC welterweight title at UFC 158. While St-Pierre controlled much of the fight with grappling, Diaz’s verbal taunts and defiance made headlines. Following the loss, Diaz took a brief retirement, only to return in 2015 against former middleweight champion Anderson Silva. That fight—marked by Diaz’s infamous mid-fight taunting and clowning—was declared a No Contest after both fighters failed drug tests.After a six-year hiatus, Diaz returned in 2021 to face Robbie Lawler in a rematch 17 years in the making. Though he ultimately lost via TKO at UFC 266, his willingness to step back into the Octagon and deliver an action-heavy performance showed the grit and authenticity that defined his entire career.Nick Diaz’s legacy transcends wins and losses. He popularized a unique blend of high-volume striking, elite Brazilian jiu-jitsu (as a Cesar Gracie black belt), and in-your-face psychological warfare. He spoke openly about fighter pay, mental health, and the politics of MMA long before it was commonplace. His rivalry with Georges St-Pierre, his bond with his brother Nate Diaz, and his influence on West Coast fight culture left an indelible mark on the sport.A fighter’s fighter, Nick Diaz is remembered as a true original—one who never compromised, never backed down, and forever changed how the world saw mixed martial arts.

  8. 38

    Why UFC’s Jacked Legend Broke Himself | The Smashing Machine

    🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Don Frye Documentary: https://youtu.be/PYriU5WtqMY     ✅ Bas Rutten Documentary: https://youtu.be/F9DYeFsLG04     ✅ Royce Gracie Documentary: https://youtu.be/xSleiUQXfpo     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera#UFC #UFCdocumentary #MarkKerrMark Kerr—“The Smashing Machine”—was a force of nature: an NCAA champ turned MMA juggernaut. With raw power and elite wrestling, he dominated early tournaments, winning back-to-back UFC heavyweight titles and later conquering PRIDE. But behind the victories lurked battles with painkillers, injuries, and the toll of constant combat. HBO’s The Smashing Machine exposed the man beyond the cage, showing both his dominance and his demons. Though his later years brought setbacks, Kerr’s influence reshaped heavyweight MMA, spotlighting wrestler-driven control and the harsh realities of fighter health. His story endures as one of triumph, tragedy, and lasting impact—so much so that Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson’s 2025 biopic reintroduces Kerr to a new generation, cementing him as one of MMA’s most haunting and essential figures.

  9. 37

    Why Khabib Mauled the UFC

    Try Rocket Money for free: https://rocketmoney.com/lionel Khabib Nurmagomedov’s journey from the mountains of Dagestan to UFC immortality is a story of discipline, dominance, and an unbreakable will. Raised under the guidance of his father, Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib’s foundation in wrestling and sambo led him to become one of the most dominant and respected fighters in the history of mixed martial arts. His perfect 29-0 record stands as a testament to his skill, dedication, and the values instilled by his family.Khabib made his UFC debut in 2012, immediately showcasing the relentless grappling style that would become his trademark. He dominated Kamal Shalorus with takedowns and secured a third-round submission victory. Over the next few years, Khabib continued to overwhelm opponents with his suffocating pressure and ground control. He defeated Gleison Tibau by decision in a fight where he showed his durability, followed by a commanding victory over Thiago Tavares via first-round knockout. Wins over Abel Trujillo—where he set a UFC record with 21 takedowns—and Pat Healy further established his place as a future contender. After a two-year layoff due to injuries, Khabib returned to dispatch Darrell Horcher with ease, followed by a brutal, one-sided victory over Michael Johnson where he famously demanded a title shot mid-fight while punishing his opponent.In 2017, Khabib faced Edson Barboza, a feared striker known for his devastating kicks. Khabib nullified Barboza’s offense, overwhelming him for three rounds to earn a lopsided decision victory. The long-awaited title shot came at UFC 223 in 2018. Originally scheduled to face Tony Ferguson, the bout fell through for the fourth time, leading Khabib to fight Al Iaquinta on short notice. Despite the opponent change, Khabib controlled the entire fight, winning a unanimous decision and becoming the undisputed UFC Lightweight Champion.Khabib’s first title defense came against his biggest rival, Conor McGregor, at UFC 229. The buildup to the fight was filled with personal animosity and media attention, making it the biggest event in UFC history. Inside the cage, Khabib dominated from the opening bell, eventually submitting McGregor with a neck crank in the fourth round. The post-fight melee that followed became infamous, but Khabib’s performance cemented his status as the best lightweight on the planet.His second defense came against Dustin Poirier at UFC 242. Fighting in Abu Dhabi, Khabib faced an interim champion known for his striking and resilience. Despite a brief scare from a guillotine choke, Khabib’s relentless pressure led to a third-round rear-naked choke victory. After the fight, he shared an emotional moment honoring his late father’s legacy and the values of humility and hard work.In 2020, Khabib faced Justin Gaethje at UFC 254 in what would become his final fight. With the recent passing of his father, Khabib entered the Octagon with a heavy heart. After a dominant first round, he submitted Gaethje with a triangle choke in the second round, securing his 29th victory without a loss. Overcome with emotion, Khabib announced his retirement immediately after the fight, fulfilling a promise to his mother that he would no longer compete without his father by his side.Khabib’s legacy extends beyond his perfect record. His wrestling style redefined dominance in the UFC, and his humility outside the cage made him a respected global figure. As the first Muslim UFC champion, he inspired millions worldwide. He also transitioned into a coaching role, guiding future champions while continuing to promote the values of discipline, faith, and family.From wrestling as a child in Dagestan to becoming the undefeated UFC Lightweight Champion, Khabib Nurmagomedov’s journey is one of unparalleled dominance and unwavering integrity. His impact on the sport will be felt for generations, and his legacy as one of the greatest fighters of all time is secure.

  10. 36

    The GOAT We Didn’t Appreciate: Demetrious Johnson

    If you’re ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch. To start your claim, visit: https://forthepeople.com/lionel#DemetriousJohnson #MightyMouse #UFCWidely regarded as one of the greatest mixed martial artists of all time, Demetrious “Mighty Mouse” Johnson redefined the flyweight division and left a lasting legacy of technical excellence, consistency, and humility. His journey from regional circuits to becoming the most dominant UFC flyweight champion in history is a testament to his adaptability, intelligence, and elite athleticism. Before joining the UFC, Johnson built his foundation in the bantamweight division, competing under the Alaska Fighting Championship and then the WEC. Notable early bouts included wins over Nick Pace and Damacio Page, and a loss to Brad Pickett that highlighted both his promise and areas for development. These formative fights helped refine the high-volume striking and chain wrestling that would define his style. Demetrious made his UFC debut in 2011 at bantamweight, defeating Japanese veteran Norifumi “Kid” Yamamoto at UFC 126. He then bested Miguel Torres and lost a close decision to Dominick Cruz for the bantamweight title at UFC on Versus 6—his only title fight loss in the UFC. This performance nonetheless underscored his world-class potential. With the introduction of the flyweight division in 2012, Johnson found his ideal weight class. He entered the UFC’s inaugural Flyweight Tournament, fighting Ian McCall to a draw and then defeating him in a rematch. Johnson then captured the UFC Flyweight Championship by defeating Joseph Benavidez via split decision at UFC 152. From there, Johnson launched one of the most dominant title reigns in UFC history, defending his belt a record-setting 11 consecutive times from 2012 to 2018. His run included victories over John Dodson (twice), Henry Cejudo, Kyoji Horiguchi, Ali Bagautinov, Chris Cariaso, Tim Elliott, Wilson Reis, and Ray Borg. Notably, his suplex-to-armbar finish of Borg at UFC 216 is widely considered one of the most creative and iconic submissions in MMA history. His reign ended in a razor-thin split decision loss to Henry Cejudo at UFC 227 in 2018, a bout that was intensely competitive and controversial. Shortly afterward, Johnson made MMA history by becoming the first part of a high-profile inter-organizational trade, moving to ONE Championship in exchange for Ben Askren. In ONE Championship, Johnson continued to challenge himself against elite international talent, winning the ONE Flyweight World Grand Prix and eventually capturing the ONE Flyweight World Championship by knocking out Adriano Moraes in their 2022 trilogy. Even late into his career, Johnson remained a symbol of technical mastery, humility, and evolution in MMA. Demetrious Johnson’s legacy is defined not only by his title defenses and historic techniques but by how he elevated the lighter weight classes and proved that greatness isn’t measured by size, but by skill, dedication, and heart. He is revered for his clean fighting style, intelligence, and respectful demeanor—an ambassador of martial arts in the truest sense.

  11. 35

    Why UFC's 1st Champion was Untouchable: Royce Gracie

    If you’re ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch. To start your claim, visit: https://forthepeople.com/lionel------ #RoyceGracie #UFCdocumentary #UFC🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ UFC’s Wildest Icon– Bas Rutten: https://youtu.be/F9DYeFsLG04     ✅ Manliest UFC Fighter Ever - Don Frye: https://youtu.be/PYriU5WtqMY     ✅ Why GSP is better than everyone: https://youtu.be/CvFIH0T5VJQ     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraRoyce Gracie is a foundational figure in mixed martial arts, forever etched into history as the man who introduced Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to the world and proved its dominance in real combat. As the original face of the UFC, Gracie helped launch a global revolution in martial arts, shifting the paradigm from traditional striking disciplines to grappling-based systems rooted in leverage, technique, and ground control. Born into the legendary Gracie family in Brazil, Royce was trained from childhood in the art developed by his father Hélio and uncle Carlos. Unlike many fighters who relied on size or strength, Royce became a walking demonstration of the "technique over power" philosophy of Gracie Jiu-Jitsu. Gracie burst onto the scene at UFC 1 in 1993, a no-holds-barred, one-night tournament designed to determine which martial art was most effective. At just 180 pounds, wearing a traditional gi, Gracie submitted Art Jimmerson, Ken Shamrock, and Gerard Gordeau in succession to win the tournament. He returned for UFC 2, winning four fights in one night to claim another tournament victory, defeating Patrick Smith in the final. At UFC 3, he withdrew due to exhaustion after a grueling win over Kimo Leopoldo, but bounced back at UFC 4 with another flawless run, submitting Dan Severn in the finals. Gracie’s undefeated streak continued into UFC 5, where he fought Ken Shamrock in a 36-minute Superfight that ended in a draw due to time limits—an anticlimactic result to a highly anticipated rematch. After UFC 5, Royce left the organization, having already left a seismic impact on the sport. Over the next decade, Royce would compete sporadically in Japan for PRIDE Fighting Championships, facing elite competition such as Kazushi Sakuraba, who famously defeated him in a legendary 90-minute bout that handed Gracie his first MMA loss. Despite that, Royce’s bravery in facing much larger, more well-rounded opponents solidified his reputation as a martial artist with unparalleled heart. Gracie returned to the UFC in 2006 at UFC 60, taking on then-welterweight champion Matt Hughes in a non-title bout. Hughes dominated the fight, finishing Gracie via TKO in the first round, showing how far the sport had evolved since Gracie's prime. Yet even in defeat, Royce's influence remained unquestionable. Royce had a final MMA fight in 2016 at Bellator 149, where he defeated longtime rival Ken Shamrock via TKO. While the bout was marred by controversy due to an apparent low blow, it closed the chapter on one of MMA's earliest and most iconic rivalries. Royce Gracie’s contributions to the sport are immeasurable. He is a UFC Hall of Famer, a pioneer of submission-based combat, and the catalyst for the rise of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu worldwide. He didn’t just win fights—he reshaped combat sports and exposed an entire generation to the value of ground fighting. Without Royce Gracie, there is no UFC as we know it today. His legacy is etched not just in titles or victories, but in every gym where BJJ is practiced and in every fighter who ever learned how to defend a choke.

  12. 34

    UFC's Wildest Icon: Bas Rutten's 22-Fight Win Streak

    If you’re ever injured in an accident, you can check out Morgan & Morgan. You can start your claim in just a click without having to leave your couch. To start your claim, visit: https://forthepeople.com/lionel------ #Basrutten #donfrye #UFC🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Manliest UFC Fighter Ever: Don Frye: https://youtu.be/PYriU5WtqMY     ✅ Anderson Silva Documentary: https://youtu.be/-uSCsGFLe3g     ✅ Why GSP is better than everyone: https://youtu.be/CvFIH0T5VJQ     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraA true pioneer of MMA, Bas Rutten forged a legendary career through a combination of devastating striking, technical evolution, and an undeniable charisma that made him one of the sport’s most beloved figures. Born in the Netherlands, Rutten started as a pure striker with a background in Kyokushin karate and taekwondo, possessing some of the most lethal liver shots in combat sports history. But his early days in Pancrase were a brutal wake-up call, as he was repeatedly outgrappled by seasoned submission specialists like Masakatsu Funaki and Ken Shamrock.Rather than accept his shortcomings, Rutten obsessively transformed himself from a one-dimensional striker into a submission ace. Training relentlessly, he developed a slick grappling game, leading to a stunning career resurgence. He avenged his loss to Funaki in dominant fashion, finishing him with strikes, and secured multiple wins over elite opponents like Minoru Suzuki, Maurice Smith, and Frank Shamrock. His ability to blend his signature striking with a dangerous ground game allowed him to become a three-time King of Pancrase champion, one of the most prestigious titles in the pre-UFC era. Rutten ended his Pancrase run on an astonishing 19-fight unbeaten streak, finishing most of his opponents and solidifying his place as one of the greatest fighters of his time.Eager for a new challenge, Rutten entered the UFC in 1998 with his sights set on the heavyweight championship. Despite being undersized for the division, he debuted with a brutal knockout victory over Tsuyoshi Kohsaka, showcasing his signature striking prowess. His next bout would be his most controversial—a championship fight against Kevin Randleman for the vacant UFC heavyweight title. Randleman’s relentless wrestling and top control seemed to dictate much of the fight, but Rutten’s superior striking and late-fight activity swayed the judges, earning him a split-decision victory and making him the UFC heavyweight champion. The result remains one of the most debated decisions in MMA history.Unfortunately, injuries cut his UFC career short before he could defend his belt. Plagued by chronic knee issues and a series of injuries from years of intense training, he was forced to vacate the title and retire from MMA competition. Despite his short UFC tenure, his impact on the sport remained immense.Beyond fighting, Rutten became a fan favorite in the world of commentary, coaching, and entertainment. His deep knowledge of MMA and infectious personality made him a staple on UFC broadcasts, Inside MMA, and countless instructional videos. He also found success in Hollywood, appearing in films like Here Comes the Boom, The Smashing Machine, and Paul Blart: Mall Cop, often playing roles that capitalized on his real-life persona as both a fighter and entertainer.Few fighters have left a mark on MMA quite like Bas Rutten. From overcoming adversity in Pancrase to becoming UFC champion, to influencing future generations with his fight philosophy and larger-than-life personality, his legacy is that of a true martial arts icon.

  13. 33

    Why Islam Makhachev is the best fighter alive

    ------ #IslamMakhachev #khabib #Charlesoliveira 🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Why Khamzat Smashes Everyone: https://youtu.be/R82bIHZMF2A     ✅ The People's Champion - Dustin Poirier: https://youtu.be/C2vP5_VvXIA     ✅ Why Daniel Cormier is Greater than Jon Jones: https://youtu.be/_sf_n3gjUyc     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraIslam Makhachev’s journey to the pinnacle of MMA is a story of resilience, discipline, and unyielding dedication. Born and raised in the small village of Burshi in Dagestan, Russia, Makhachev was immersed in a culture that valued combat sports as a means of discipline and identity. Growing up alongside Khabib Nurmagomedov, under the watchful eye of the legendary Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Makhachev honed his skills in sambo, a martial art that became the foundation of his dominance. A multiple-time sambo world champion, Makhachev’s grappling acumen was second to none, laying the groundwork for his eventual transition to mixed martial arts.Makhachev made his UFC debut on May 23, 2015, against Leo Kuntz at UFC 187. Displaying the clinical grappling and positional control that would become his trademark, he secured a submission victory in the second round. However, his meteoric rise was temporarily halted in his next fight, suffering a stunning first-round knockout at the hands of Adriano Martins at UFC 192. This loss served as a turning point, igniting a relentless drive to refine his striking, fortify his defense, and return to the octagon as a more complete fighter.From 2016 onward, Makhachev embarked on an impressive win streak, systematically dismantling a series of increasingly formidable opponents. Notable victories included dominant performances over Nik Lentz, Gleison Tibau, and Arman Tsarukyan in 2019. The Tsarukyan fight showcased one of the most technical grappling battles in recent UFC history, with Makhachev emerging victorious by unanimous decision.His rise continued with wins over Davi Ramos, Drew Dober, and Thiago Moisés, cementing his reputation as a future title contender. In October 2021, Makhachev faced Dan Hooker on short notice, finishing him with a kimura in the first round. His relentless momentum culminated in a title shot against Charles Oliveira at UFC 280, where he claimed the lightweight championship with a second-round submission.Makhachev successfully defended his belt in a high-stakes clash against featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 284, winning a hard-fought unanimous decision. Later, in their highly anticipated rematch, Makhachev made an emphatic statement by finishing Volkanovski via head kick in the opening round, solidifying his dominance as the lightweight king. Between these bouts, he defended his title against former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier, overcoming Poirier’s experience and striking prowess to secure a submission victory in another statement performance.Makhachev’s reign continued with a second showdown against Arman Tsarukyan in 2025, revisiting their earlier grappling war. This time, Makhachev showcased his evolution as a fighter, dominating Tsarukyan and defending his title once again.From his sambo roots to his reign as UFC lightweight champion, Islam Makhachev’s career is a testament to his upbringing, discipline, and the Dagestani legacy of combat sports excellence. With each challenge overcome, he continues to inspire fighters and fans alike, cementing his place among the sport’s all-time greats.

  14. 32

    Why Alex Pereira Speedran the UFC (again)

    Get 20% off your Lumen at https://www.lumen.me/LIONEL and start taking charge of your health today!------ #AlexPereira #jiriprochazka #Khalilrountree🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Why Alex Pereira Speedran UFC Part 1: https://youtu.be/dW92qYrR9Vw     ✅ Why Khamzat Smashes Everyone: https://youtu.be/R82bIHZMF2A     ✅ Why Sean Strickland Derailed UFC: https://youtu.be/WQEtjfD5iXg     👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera     👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera     👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraAlex Pereira’s journey to UFC greatness began with his transition from a decorated kickboxing career to mixed martial arts, where his unparalleled striking and precision quickly became his trademarks. After defeating top contenders in the middleweight division, Pereira shocked the MMA world by capturing the middleweight title from his longtime rival, Israel Adesanya, in a dramatic finish. Though Adesanya reclaimed the belt in their rematch, Pereira’s ambitions extended beyond middleweight dominance.In 2024, Pereira moved up to the light heavyweight division, aiming to test his skills against the larger athletes in one of the UFC’s most competitive weight classes. His return to the cage was marked by an electric trilogy fight with Adesanya, this time at 205 pounds. With both fighters carrying immense stakes into the bout, Pereira showcased not only his striking brilliance but also his ability to evolve as a mixed martial artist, walking away with a decisive victory.Pereira’s next challenge came against Jamahal Hill, the former champion known for his durability and versatile game. In a battle of willpower and technical prowess, Pereira delivered a performance that emphasized his ability to adapt and neutralize Hill’s strengths.The momentum continued into his bout with Jiri Prochazka, one of the division’s most unpredictable and dangerous fighters. Prochazka’s unorthodox style tested Pereira in ways no opponent had before, but Pereira’s composure and striking mastery carried him to another successful title defense.Finally, Pereira faced Khalil Rountree, whose explosive power and relentless aggression had earned him a reputation as a dark horse in the division. In yet another unforgettable contest, Pereira showcased his championship grit, overcoming adversity to secure his place among the UFC’s all-time greats.This documentary delves deeply into Pereira’s incredible 2024 title run, providing insight into the fights, rivalries, and moments that defined his time as the light heavyweight champion. From his striking evolution to the mental toughness that carried him through some of the UFC’s most intense battles, Pereira’s story is one of resilience, skill, and determination.

  15. 31

    UFC's Most Emotional Rise to Greatness: Charles Oliveira

    Go to https://buyraycon.com/lionel to get up to 20% off sitewide! Brought to you by Raycon.Charles “Do Bronx” Oliveira’s journey to the top of the UFC lightweight division is the stuff of legends. From the favelas of Brazil to holding UFC gold, Oliveira’s story is one of perseverance, evolution, and redemption. In this documentary, Lionel Rivera explores the highs and lows of a career that has captivated MMA fans worldwide.Oliveira’s record-breaking submission wins and his evolution from a slick grappler to a dangerous all-around fighter have solidified his place in UFC history. From his early UFC days, where he showed flashes of brilliance, to his struggles to find consistency, Oliveira’s career has been a testament to resilience.This documentary dives into Oliveira’s biggest victories, including his emphatic TKO of Michael Chandler to capture the lightweight title, his stunning submission of Dustin Poirier to defend it, and his thrilling battles with Justin Gaethje and Beneil Dariush. Lionel Rivera also revisits the moments that tested him the most—losses that seemed insurmountable but ultimately forged the fighter and person he is today.Beyond his in-cage achievements, Lionel Rivera explore's Oliveira’s impact on the UFC and the lightweight division. As a fighter with the most submission wins in UFC history and one of the most exciting fighting styles, Oliveira has become a symbol of technical brilliance and sheer heart. His underdog story resonates with fans around the globe, who admire not only his skills but also his humility, charisma, and loyalty to his roots in Brazil.Join me in celebrating the career of Charles Oliveira, a man who proves that no matter how many times life knocks you down, it’s about how many times you rise again. This is the story of a fighter who never gave up and earned the love and respect of fans everywhere.------ #Charlesoliveira #khabib #islammakhachev

  16. 30

    Why Khamzat Chimaev Smashes Everyone

    Play War Thunder now with my links, and get a massive, free bonus pack including vehicles, boosters and more on PC and consoles: https://playwt.link/lionelrivera| Mobile: https://wtm.game/lionelrivera 🎬 Videos you'll like:      ✅ Why Daniel Cormier is Greater than Jon Jones: https://youtu.be/_sf_n3gjUyc      ✅ Why Jon Jones became GOAT (& threw it all away): https://youtu.be/Cgmy_vfDUBQ      ✅ Why Sean Strickland Derailed UFC: https://youtu.be/WQEtjfD5iXg Khamzat Chimaev is one of the most dominant fighters in UFC history. This UFC documentary explores the rise of Khamzat Chimaev, his journey from Chechnya to Sweden to become a dominant freestyle wrestling phenom, and his transition from wrestling to MMA. Khamzat Chimaev made his A debut in May of 2018, beginning a dominant 6-fight win streak in a few organizations including Brave CF before Khamzat Chimaev made his UFC debut on fight island in July of 2020. Khamzat was able to submit John Phillips with a darce choke in round 2. Khamzat then made UFC history by returning to fight 10 days later against Rhys McKee, earning a first round TKO. Less than 2 months later at middleweight, Khamzat knocked out Gerald Meerschaert in 17 seconds. This propelled Khamzat Chimaev to superstardom. However, a health scare would prevent Khamzat from returning to the UFC until October of 2021, where Khamzat submitted Li Jinglang in round 1 of UFC 267. Another long layoff would lead to Khamzat Chimaev beating Gilbert burns at UFC 273 via unanimous decision. Soon after, Khamzat Chimaev controversially missed weight ahead of his match against Nate Diaz, getting his fight scrapped and instead Khamzat faced Kevin Holland at UFC 279 where Khamzat submitted Holland with a darce choke. Khamzat's next 2 fights would be spaced wide apart due to several issues. Khamzat was scheduled to face Paulo Costa but instead faced Kamaru Usman on short notice at UFC 294, winning a decision against the former UFC welterweight champion. Khamzat earned his UFC title shot by submitting Robert Whittaker at UFC 308, cementing himself as one of the most dominant fighters on the planet.

  17. 29

    Why Jon Jones Beat Everyone...Including Himself

    Get 20% OFF + Free International Shipping @Manscaped with promo code LRMMA at Manscaped.com/lrmma! #manscapedpartner------ #Jonjones  #tomaspinall🎬 Videos you'll like:     ✅ Why Daniel Cormier is Greater than Jon Jones: https://youtu.be/_sf_n3gjUyc     ✅ Why Max Holloway is the Baddest Man Alive: https://youtu.be/bNzEFd7zexM     ✅ Why Sean Strickland Derailed UFC: https://youtu.be/WQEtjfD5iXg👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraJon Jones is one of the most notorious mixed martial artists in history. Jon Jones is highly regarded as the Greatest of all time in the UFC due to his spectacular fighting prowess. However, Jon Jones is not free of criticism. Throughout Jon Bones Jones' lengthy UFC career, he has drawn controversy after controversy. Jon Jones began his pro-MMA career in 2008, leveraging his college wrestling and jiu-jitsu background to begin a strong win streak, knocking out Brad Bernard, knocking out Carlos Eduardo, submitting Anthony Pina, finishing Ryan Verett, knocking out Parker Porter, and finally submitting Moyses Gabin to become the USKBA Light Heavyweight Champion. This fight earned Jon Jones a UFC contract, making his debut at UFC 87 and defeating Andre Gusmao, then defeating Stephan Bonnar at UFC 94, and submitting Jake O'Brien at UFC 100. Unfortunately for Jon Jones, he was disqualified in his next fight against Matt Hamill for throwing downward 12 to 6 elbows. This would be the only loss on Jon Jones' record as he would finish Brandon Vera, Vladimir Matyushenko, Ryan Bader, and ultimately Mauricio Shogun Rua to become the youngest champion in UFC history. JOn Jones then began gathering his title defenses, submitting Quinton Rampage Jackson, submitting Lyoto Machida, defeating Rashad Evans, submitting Vitor Belfort, and finishing Chael Sonnen. Jon Jones then had his controversial UFC 165 bout against Alexander Gustafsson where in this five round war, Jon Jones won a unanimous decision. Shortly After Jon defeated both Alexander Gustafsson and Glover Teixeira, Jones defeated bitter rival Daniel Cormier at UFC 182, but Jones was stripped of his title due to violating the code of conduct UFC policy after crashing his car into a pregnant woman and leaving the scene. Jones would return at UFC 197 against Ovince Saint Preux and defeated him to win the interim light heavyweight championship. Jones then earned his rematch to now-champion Daniel Cormier at UFC 214, where JOnes successfully head kicked Daniel Cormier to knock out his rival, but Jones did not win the title due to testing positive for banned substances. Jones won the vacant light heavyweight UFC title at UFC 232 by finishing Gustafsson, but then had 3 lackluster performances against Anthony Smith, Thiago Santos, and controversially Dominick Reyes. Jones then waited 3 years to return to the UFC at heavyweight where at UFC 285 he choked out Ciryl Gane to become the UFC heavyweight champion. Jon Jones then fought Stipe Miocic in November, 2024 to cement himself as one of the greatest fighters ever. He would easily be considered the greatest of all time if it weren't for the questions surrounding his steroid use.

  18. 28

    Why Sean O'Malley Outstrikes Everyone

    Sugar Sean O’Malley is one of the hottest prospects in UFC history. As a phenomenal striker and kickboxer in the bantamweight division, Sean O’Malley has gathered sensational knockouts and UFC performances over Terrion Ware, Andre Soukhamthath at UFC 222, Jose Quinonez and UFC 248, Eddie Wineland at UFC 250, Thomas Almeida UFC 260, Kris Moutinho at UFC 264, Raulian Paiva at UFC 269, and Petr Yan at UFC 280. Sean O’Malley may not get the respect he deserves due to his close encounter with former UFC bantamweight champion Petr Yan, and his no-contest against Pedro Munhoz. But now with Aljamain Sterling defeating Henry Cejudo, Sean O’Malley is primed for his first title shot against a 3x defending champion in Aljamain Funkmaster Sterling. How will his first UFC championship main event go? Only time will tell for Sugar Sean O’Malley.

  19. 27

    Manliest UFC Fighter Ever: Don Frye

    #Donfrye #seanstrickland #UFCDon Frye is a legendary MMA pioneer, well-known for his exciting fights beginning at UFC 8. Under the tutelage of Dan Severn, Don Frye enrolled in UFC 8 in 1996, knocking out Thomas Ramirez, finishing Sam Adkins, and submitting Gary Goodridge to win the UFC 8 tournament. Don Frye then returned at UFC 9 to TKO Amaury Bitetti and UFC 10 where he TKO'd Mark Hall, and finished Brian Johnston, but unfortunately lost to Mark Coleman in the finals to lose the UFC 10 tournament. After submitting Mark Hall in UFC Japan, Don Frye returned at UFC Ultimate Ultimate 96 to finish Gary Goodridge, submitted Mark Hall and submitted Tank Abbnot to win the Ultimate Ultimate 96 tournament. Don Frye continued his win streak until 2002, defeating Eric Valdez, Gilbert Yvel, Cyril Abidi, Ken Shamrock and ultimately defeating Yoshihiro Takayama at Backstage Pride in what is considered the manliest fight ever. This was the high point of Don's career, but he continued fighting until 2011. Don's contributions to early MMA as a 2-time UFC tournament champion earned him a spot in the UFC Hall of Fame.

  20. 26

    Why Daniel Cormier is Greater than Jon Jones

    Daniel Cormier is one of the greatest UFC fighters of all time, becoming the second-ever simultaneous 2-weight UFC champion as he was the UFC lightheavyweight champion and UFC heavyweight champion. Daniel Cormier has lived a storied life, developing into a dominant freestyle wrestler, winning many gold and silver medals in renowned wrestling competitions and becoming an Olympian in 2008 and 2004. However, Daniel Cormier has suffered terrible tragedies in his life, losing his daughter in a car accident in 2003, motivating him to build himself and his family as much as he could for her. Daniel Cormier transitioned from wrestling to mixed martial arts flawlessly,  very quickly becoming the King of the Cage heavyweight champion in 2010 and the XMMA Heavyweight champion. Soon after Daniel Won the Strikeforce Heavyweight Grand Prix, defeating Jeff Monson, Bigfoot Silva, and Josh Barnett. In 2013, at 11-0, Daniel Cormier made his UFC debut against former UFC heavyweight champion Frank Mir, beginning a winning streak that included names like Frank Mir, Roy Nelson, Patrick Cummins and Dan Henderson. Then Daniel Cormier began his rivalry with the light heavyweight champion Jon Jones. This furious rivalry and ferocious buildup culminated into a championship fight at UFC 182 where Jon Jones defeated Daniel Cormier to defend his title. However Jon Jones was stripped of the light heavyweight UFC belt due to violating the UFC's code of conduct. Daniel Cormier then fought for the vacant lightheavyweight title, submitting Anthony Johnson to finally become UFC lightheavyweight champion. Cormier defended his title against Gustafsson, and Rumble Johnson, and even had one more non-title fight to Anderson Silva before reaching Jon Jones in 2014. Despite Jon Jones knocking out Daniel Cormier via head kick, Cormier retained his title due to Jones testing positive for banned substances. DC defended his title against Volkan Oezdemir at UFC 220 before ultimately moving up and challenging Stipe Miocic for UFC heavyweight championship at UFC 226. Daniel Cormier knocked out Stipe Miocic in round 1 to become UFCheavyweight champion and become a 2-division UFC champion. Cormier defended his heavyweight belt by submitting Derrick Lewis at UFC 230. Cormier However, lost both of his final 2 fights against Stipe Miocic at UFC 241 and UFC 252 to end his career. Nevertheless, Cormier remains one of the most respected athletes, mixed martial artists, and UFC legends ever, building a legacy that all fans admire.

  21. 25

    Why Sean Strickland Derailed UFC

    Sean Strickland is one of the most controversial champions the UFC has ever had. Sean Strickland is of course most famous not only for his outspoken and unhinged personality but also because of his shockingly dominant performance at UFC 293 to defeat Israel Adesanya via unanimous decision to become the UFC middleweight champion on September 10th, 2023. Prior to this, Sean Strickland had an extensive MMA career, becoming the King of the Cage Middleweight Champion and defending his KOTC title 4 times before joining the UFC. After Sean Strickland's lackluster welterweight run in the UFC, including a loss to both Kamaru Usman and Santiago Ponzinibbio, Strickland moved up to the UFC's middleweight division, where he gathered a 6-fight win streak before getting knocked out by Alex Pereira at UFC 276 in 2022, which was unfortunately followed by a highly controversial split decision loss to Jared Cannonier in December 2022. Sean Stricklan rebounded in 2023 with 2 victories over Nassourdine Imavov and Abus Magomedov before earning his title shot to Israel Adesanya. After dethroning Adesanya, Strickland's first title defense against Dricus Du Plessis ended in a controversial Split Decision for Dricus Du Plessis. However, losing his title would not keep Sean Strickland down as Sean would rebound with a victory over Paulo Costa at UFC 302.

  22. 24

    Greatest to Never Do It: Dustin Poirier

    Dustin "The Diamond" Poirier was one of the most respected mixed martial artists to ever compete in the UFC. His UFC record contains names of some of the most legendary lightweights and featherweights to ever compete in the sport including Max Holloway, Conor McGregor, the Korean Zombie, Eddie Alvarez, Anthony Pettis, Justin Gaethje, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Charles Oliveira, Michael Chandler, and Islam Makhachev. Dustin Poirier's crowning achievements are his decision win over Max Holloway at UFC 236 to become the interim lightweight champion, his two knockout victories over Conor McGregor at UFC 264 and UFC 257. Dustin Poirier attempted to claim the UFC BMF championship at UFC 291, but was instead knocked out by Justin Gaethje. Dustin Poirier competed for an undisputed lightweight title 3 times but never captured undisputed gold as he was submitted by Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 242, submitted by Charles Oliveira at UFC 269, and Submitted by Islam Makhachev at UFC 302. Dustin Poirier may have never captured undisputed UFC gold, but his legacy lives on as one of the greatest fighters to ever compete in MMA. Fans will forever hold Poirier in high regards no matter his lack of a world title.

  23. 23

    UFC's Baddest Motherf***er: Max Holloway

    Visit https://DrinkLMNT.com/lionelrivera for a FREE sample pack with any LMNT drink mix purchase! You'll love it!🛍️ Shop UFC Gear: https://amzn.to/4aMBnhJ🎬 Videos you'll like: ✅ Why Ilia Topuria Destroys Everyone: https://youtu.be/g- ✅ Why Fighting Broke Anderson Silva: https://youtu.be/-uSCsGFLe3g ✅ Why Dricus is the Last African Champion: https://youtu.be/nORh_u8eBkk👉 Become a Member: https://bit.ly/LionelRivera👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera👉 Buy me a coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lionelrivera#MaxHolloway #alexandervolkanovski #IliaTopuria

  24. 22

    Why Dricus Du Plessis Bulldozed the UFC

    Du Plessis became UFC middleweight champion after defeating Sean Strickland at UFC 297 via unanimous decision, becoming the first South African Champion of the UFC. Dricus Du Plessis has had a storied professional MMA career, making a name for himself in Extreme Fighting Championship. Dricus debuted at EFC 21, building a strong resume of impressive submissions, especially the rear naked choke, and after Dricus Du Plessis lost to Garreth McLellan in an EFC middleweight title fight, Dricus Du Plessis went on an impressive winning streak to beat Martin Van Staden at EFC 50 for the EFC welterweight championship and on top of that, beating Yannick Bahati at EFC 62 for the EFC middleweight championship, turning Dricus into an MMA double champion at EFC. Afterward, Dricus won and lost the KSW welterweight championship, defended his EFC middleweight championship, and debuted in the UFC against Markus Perez at UFC Fight Island 5, where Dricus Du Plessis knocked out Markus Perez in October 2020. Dricus then developed his UFC win streak, knocking out Trevin Giles at UFC 264, defeating Brad Tavares at UFC 276, submitting Darren Till at UFC 282, knocking out Robert Whittaker at UFC 290, and then defeating Sean Strickland at UFC 297 to become the UFC middleweight champion. Along the way, Dricus Du Plessis developed a rivalry with former UFC middleweight champion, Israel Adesanya regarding their African heritage.

  25. 21

    Why Anderson Silva lasted 2,457 days as champion

    🎬 Videos you'll like: ✅ Why Alex Pereira Speedran UFC: https://youtu.be/dW92qYrR9Vw ✅ Why Georges St-Pierre is Better than Everyone: https://youtu.be/CvFIH0T5VJQ ✅ How Joe Rogan Made Us All UFC Fans: https://youtu.be/fqhO_ThIghQ👉Become a Member: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAupuzZQhQNlECnRFlRGg5g/join👉 Become a Patron: https://patreon.com/lionelrivera👉Buy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/lionelriveraAnderson Silva is the UFC’s most dominant middleweight champion, holding the record for the longest title reign in UFC history at 2,457 days. Anderson Silva was a mystifying knockout artist who after making a name for himself dominating Pride Fighting Championships, winning the Shoot middleweight championship, and winning the Cage Rage Middleweight championship, ventured to the UFC and knocked out Chris Leben in 49 seconds in his UFC debut in 2006. Anderson Silva then immediately challenged for the UFC middleweight championship against Rich Franklin and knocked him out at UFC 64 to become UFC middleweight champion. Over Anderson Silva’s next 10 consecutive title defenses, Anderson Silva decimated his competition. Anderson Silva TKO’d Travis Lutter at UFC 67, TKO’d Nate Marquardt at UFC 73, TKO’d Rich Franklin in their rematch at UFC 77, Submitted Dan Henderson at UFC 82, knocked out James Irvin, TKO’d Patrick Cote, got a decision against Thales Leites, knocked out Forrest Griffin in spectacular fashion at UFC 101, defeated Demain Main, submitted Chael Sonnen at UFC 117 in one of the greatest comebacks in UFC history, knocked out Vitor Belfort with a front kick to the face, finished Yushin Okami, finished Chael Sonnen in the rematch at UFC 148, and finished Stephan Bonnar in his final title defense. However, Anderson Silva would then go on an unprecedented losing streak by getting knocked out to Chris Weidman, breaking his leg against chris weidman at UFC 168, having a no-contest to Nick Diaz after testing positive for banned substances, and then losing to Michael Bisping, Daniel Cormier, Israel Adesanya, Jared Cannonier, Urijah Hall, and most embarrassingly, Jake Paul in a boxing match. Despite Anderson Silva’s dramatic downfall, he is a beloved UFC pioneer and UFC hall-of-famer with the longest UFC title reign and 10 consecutive title defenses, most finishes in UFC title fights, most knockouts and most knockdowns in UFC title fights, and most UFC middleweight title fight wins. Anderson Silva’s story is magnificent. This is the Anderson Silva Documentary.#AndersonSilva #UFC #ChaelSonnen

  26. 20

    Why Ilia Topuria Dominates UFC

    Ilia Topuria is the Georgian and Spanish UFC Fighter Who Became UFC Featherweight Champion by knocking out Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 298. Ilia Topuria, nicknamed “El Matador,” is primed to become one of the biggest stars in UFC history, skin to Conor McGregor and Israel Adesanya. Topuria’s exciting fighting style and mixed martial arts career began in 2015 and over the next 8 MMA fights, he gathered 7 submissions and 1 knockout in professional MMA before earning his UFC debut in 2020. At UFC Fight Night: Moraes vs Sandhagen, Ilia Topuria defeated Youssef Zalal via unanimous decision.  2 months later, Ilia Topuria defeated Damon Jackson via knockout. In the performance that put Ilia Topuria on UFC fans’ radar, Topuria knocked out Ryan Hall at UFC 264. The following year, Ilia Topuria had a rocky start to his bout against Jai Herbert before knocking out Jai Herbert in round 2. In perhaps, Ilia Topuria’s 2 most impressive performances before his title shot, Topuria submitted Bryce Mitchell at UFC 282 and then absolutely dominated Josh Emmett to earn a unanimous decision and a UFC featherweight title shot against Alexander Volkanovski. As we all know, Topuria knocked out Volkanovski to begin his title reign. This is the Ilia Topuria Documentary. #IliaTopuria #UFC #Topuria

  27. 19

    Why Georges St-Pierre is better than everyone

    Georges St-Pierre is the GOAT of MMA and the UFC, even when compared to other greats like Jon Jones, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Anderson Silva, Demetrious Johnson and other Greats in MMA. GSP's story from losing to Matt Hughes and Matt Serra, to avenging both his losses and becoming the dominant champion of welterweight is inspiring to UFC fighters of the modern era. And even if we consider Georges St-Pierre's greatest criticisms, those being his boring wrestling, lack of finishes, and never moving up in weight, those critiques were all put to bed when GSP submitted Michael Bisping and became a UFC double champion (2-division champion) of both the UFC middleweight division and the UFC welterweight division. GSP is not only the greatest UFC welterweight, and greatest UFC fighter ever but his vulnerability and the way he carries himself as a representative of the sport makes him stand tall among the greatest UFC fighters ever. In this Georges St-Pierre Documentary, I dive into GSP's career and prove that he is the greatest UFC fighter ever over Jon Jones, Khabib Nurmagomedov, and Demetrious Mighty Mouse Johnson. #gsp #georgesstpierre #ufcdocumentary

  28. 18

    How Alex Pereira Speedran UFC

    Alex Pereira AKA Poatan is one of the most terrifying strikers to enter the UFC and in just 2 years in the UFC, he became the UFC Middleweight Champion by knocking out his rival, Israel Adesanya, and then became the UFC light heavyweight champion by finishing Jiri Prochazka. Alex Pereira used his previous experience as a 2-division, Glory kickboxing world champion to defeat 4 UFC champions, including Israel Adesanya, Sean Strickland, Jan Blachowicz, and Jiri Prochazka. By UFC Champion standards, Alex Pereira is an anomaly, becoming the ninth 2-division champion in UFC history alongside Conor McGregor, Daniel Cormier, Jon Jones, Georges St-Pierre, Henry Cejudio, Amanda Nunes, BJ Penn, and Randy Couture. However, Alex Pereira stands tall among UFC champions, with the distinct honor of becoming a UFC champ-champ in the shortest amount of time — Just 2 years. From his UFC debut to capturing both the UFC middleweight and light-heavyweight championships, Alex Pereira has become a fan-favorite UFC fighter with a historical impact on MMA, Kickboxing, and Combat sports as a whole. Amongst his greatest contributions to the sport of MMA and the UFC is his captivating rivalry with Israel Adesanya. The Pereira vs Adesanya Rivalry transcended the mainstream and is integral to Alex Pereira’s development as a hero in the eyes of MMA fans. This is an Alex Pereira Documentary — enjoy!  #Alexpereira #Poatan #Israeladesanya

  29. 17

    Full Story of Bruce Buffer: Legendary UFC Announcer

    Bruce Buffer is the iconic announcer for the UFC who seems to have been born for his role as the fan-favorite voice of the octagon. However, while it may feel like Bruce Buffer was always with the UFC, this isn’t the case. In fact, the first UFC announcer was Rich Goins. But the stor of how Bruce Buffer got involved with the UFC is extremely interesting and perhaps shocking, particularly when you consider that it all began by Bruce Buffer becoming reunited with his long lost half brother and iconic Boxing announcer Michael Buffer. UFC 8 was Bruce Buffer’s First UFC event as an announcer and became full time with the UFC after his iconic appearance on popular TV show friends. Bob Meyrowitz brought Bruce Buffer on as a Full Time announcer at UFC 13 and it’s been this way ever since. Hopefully we never have to stop hearing Bruce Say “It’s Time.”

  30. 16

    Most HATED UFC Referee | The Controversial Legacy of Mario Yamasaki and His 9 Worst UFC Moments

    Mario Yamasaki is one of the most hated UFC referees because over a 13-year span as a UFC referee, he made several horrible mistakes, including not noticing Frank Trigg's clear groin strike over Matt Hughes at UFC 52, pausing the fight between victor valimaki and alessio sakara, Giving Erick Silva a disqualification loss in the UFC over allegedly illegal punches to the back of the head to Carlo Prater, Letting Glover Teixeira dominate and punish Fabio Maldonado for 2 rounds straight, awkwardly stepping in between Cody Garbrandt and Augusto Mendes, not noticing Alex Oliveira's tap to Donald Cowboy Cerrone, letting Derrick Lewis punch and knockout Travis Browne with several unanswered shots, a horrible stoppage between Michael Chiesa and Kevin Lee, and letting Valentina Shevchenko punish Priscillla Cachoeira. Dana White has had many bad things to say about Mario Yamasaki including that he is "disgusting" and "has no business reffing fights" on UFC Tonight on Fox.

  31. 15

    UFC's Ruthless Kingpin: Dana White

    Dana White is the controversial president of the UFC, the largest mixed martial arts promotion in the world. While Dana White has often been hailed as the savvy businessman who made the UFC what it is today, he is not without his critics. Dana White has been described as a ruthless leader who underpays UFC fighters, strongarms UFC athletes into poor negotiations, and has far too many brash public speeches. Is he the caricature of a villain hungry for power in the world’s most exciting sport or is he a misunderstood visionary whose passion carries the UFC to greatness. Join me in peeling back Dana White’s story as the President of the UFC in this Dana White Documentary.

  32. 14

    Why Chael Sonnen is Undefeated & Undisputed

    This is a Documentary about Chael Sonnen, one of the greatest middleweight and light heavyweight MMA fighters to never become UFC Champion. Chael Sonnen is well known as the Godfather of UFC Trash Talk. His amazing ability to convince UFC fans and Dana White of his skills allowed him to contest multiple world championships including Anderson Silva's UFC Middleweight championship and Jon Jones' Light Heavyweight championship. Chael fought some of the greatest and most legendary fighters ever including the aforementioned, Michael Bisping, Shogun Rua, Demian Maia, Rashad Evans, Wanderlei Silva, and Tito Ortiz. This is the story of the bad guy, the American Gangster, and Anderson Silva's Rival Chael P. Sonnen.

  33. 13

    How Joe Rogan Made Us UFC Fans

    Joe Rogan is one of the most influential men in popular culture as a well-known comedian, beloved commentator, and famous podcaster of the Joe Rogan Experience. As a martial arts enthusiast, Joe was fascinated with martial arts and became involved with the UFC, becoming a backstage interviewer. His love for the UFC grew as he became a commentator, friend to Dana white, and interviewed some of the UFC’s greatest champions and stars, including Georges St-Pierre, Kamaru Usman, Jon Jones, Dana White Himself, Demetrious Johnson, Henry Cejudo, Alexander Volkanovski, Israel Adesanya, and Francis Ngannou. Joe Rogan has long advocated for practicing martial arts and jiu jitsu for self defense and this, alongside his commentary job and enthusiasm for UFC events has converted his millions of podcast listeners and fans into die-hard fans of mixed martial arts and the UFC. In this Joe Rogan Documentary, I explore Joe Rogan’s impact on the UFC and how he dramatically expanded the UFC’s fanbase more than we know. #danawhite #ufc #documentary #danawhiteufc

  34. 12

    Why Alexander Volkanovski is better than everyone

    Alexander Volkanovski has quickly risen as one of the best UFC Champions in not only the current UFC roster, but one of the best UFC champions of all time. He has dominated the featherweight division of the UFC and has only seemed to get better with time. He has fought and defeated massive UFC names like Max Holloway, the Korean Zombie, Jose Aldo, Chad Mendes, Brian Ortega, Yair Rodrigues, and many more fighters. He is in the conversation, at least in terms of mixed martial arts skills when you compare him to names like Jon Jones, Anderson Silva, Khabib Nurmagomedov, Demetrious Johnson and all our favorite UFC fighters. In this video, I, Lionel Rivera break down what makes Alexander Volkanovski such a great UFC fighter and how he will likely change the sport of MMA forever.

  35. 11

    Paddy Pimblett’s Controversial Rise to British UFC Superstar

    Few MMA fighters in the UFC have reached the level of stardom as Paddy the Baddy Pimblett. The British - scouse UFC fighter came from Cage Warriors and entered the UFC with a lot of MMA fans behind him. During his time as a popular UFC lightweight, Paddy Pimblett has had 4 UFC fights, finishing his first 3 opponents in Luigi Venframini, Kazula Vargas, and Jordan Leavitt. But his hype and popularity came under fire after his controversial victory over Jared Gordon had many MMA fans turn away from his lack of humility. Now Paddy the Baddy Pimblett has been injured and out of professional mixed martial arts competition for several months, leaving UFC fans wondering how Patrick Pimblett will perform once he returns and faces elite UFC lightweights like Dustin Poirier, Islam Makhachev, Charles Oliveira, Michael Chandler, and Justin Gaethje.

  36. 10

    Jon Jones vs Stipe Miocic Will Not Be Close…

    Jon Jones will soon defend his Heavyweight Championship against arguable UFC heavyweight GOAT and former UFC heavyweight champion Stipe Miocic. But this UFC super fight will not be close…. Jon Jones most recently made his UFC heavyweight debut in a breakout performance against Ciryl Gane at UFC 285, where Jon Jones scored a first-round submission Victory against the former UFC interim heavyweight champion. Stipe’s most recent UFC performance was his knockout loss to former UFC champion Francis Ngannou at UFC 260. These recent performances alone are not the only factors, as when we consider Jon Jones’ resume, fighting style, fight IQ, dynamic striking and mixed martial arts techniques, overall accomplishments, mindset and age compared to Stipe Miocic, it becomes very apparent how Jon Jones would convincingly beat Stipe Miocic for his first UFC heavyweight title defense.

  37. 9

    Francis Ngannou vs Tyson Fury is Not Competitive AT ALL

    Francis Ngannou vs Tyson Fury is set as a boxing match between the former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou and Current Boxing Champion Tyson Fury. Francis Ngannou had been criticized for leaving the UFC as the sitting heavyweight champion and Tyson Fury is the WBC heavyweight champion since 2020, but has also held the unified WBA (Super), IBF, WBO, and IBO titles. Given that this is a boxing match between Francis Ngannou and Tyson Fury on October 28, 2023, this doesn’t feel particularly competitive given how MMA is a vastly different sport to Boxing. Francis Ngannou was able to secure a large fight purse against Tyson Fury, but potentially hurts his legacy in the UFC and the sport of MMA as a whole. In this video I break down Francis Ngannou vs Tyson Fury.

  38. 8

    Israel Adesanya vs Dricus Du Plessis is NOT going to be close…

    Israel Adesanya and Dricus Du Plesiss will be fighting soon as Israel Adesanya Defends his UFC middleweight title. Dricus Du Plessis is coming off a very impressive knockout victory over Former UFC Middleweight champion Robert Whittaker at UFC 290. And Israel Adesanya is coming off his middleweight title fight against Alex Pereira where he knocked out his rival to recapture his UFC middleweight title. Dricus Du Plessis is looking to defeat Israel Adesanya and become a South African Born UFC Champion who brings the title back to Africa. Dricus Du Plessis brings very powerful strikes, relentless pacing, and underrated submissions which can help him capture the UFC title against Israel Adesanya. On the other hand, Israel Adesanya brings vicious stirking and well-developed takedown defense which can enable thim to pick apart Du plessis on the feet before ultimately finishing him. This is a very very fun middleweight title fight but it is going to be a very ugly buildup along the way

  39. 7

    Cory Sandhagen vs Umar Nurmagomedov is Higher Level Than You Realize | Sandhagen vs Umar Breakdown

    Elite UFC Bantamweight Cory Sandhagen faces surging UFC bantamweight contender Umar Nurmagomedov on August 5th, 2023 for a UFC Fight Night. This is a much higher level fight than most fans know because Umar Nurmagomedov’s skillset in both the grappling and in the striking is very reminiscent of Islam Makhachev more so than it is reminiscent of his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov. Cory Sandhagen on the other hand has proven himself a dangerous member of the top bantamweights but beating names like Marlon Chito Vera and Song Yadong. This is a very tough fight to predict a winner, but Cory Sandhagen has done so much in the UFC and his experience as well as his well-roundedness in striking and grappling might be what edges out a victory over Umar Nurmagomedov.

  40. 6

    Can Aljamain Sterling Beat Sean O’Malley at UFC 292? | Full Breakdown of Sterling vs Sean O'Malley

    Current UFC Bantamweight Champion Alajamain “Funkmaster” Sterling will fight UFC megastar Sugar Sean O’Malley At UFC 292 on August 19th, 2023. This is a highly anticipated UFC bout to determine the trajectory of the UFC bantamweight division, which will be left in turmoil if Aljamain Sterling decides to retire after his fourth title defense to Sean O’Malley. Aljamain most revently defeated Henry Cejudo to retain his UFC bantamweight title and Sean O’Malley most recently won a controversial split decision over former Bantamweight Champion, Petr Yan to earn his title shot. This will be a very interesting matchup as Aljamain Sterling is traditionally a very strong grappler, with powerful ground control, and submissions. While Sean O’Malley is a talented striker who can knockout any UFC fighter in the bantamweight division. Will Aljamain emerge victorious or will Sean O’Malley upset the champion? Time will tell at UFC 292.

  41. 5

    Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje 2 will be the Fight of the Year | UFC 291’s BMF Champion

    Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje are fighting at UFC 291 for their rematch years in the making. The two elite UFC lightweights have had quite the careers and are at a crossroads for the second time after both Justin Gaethje and Dustin Poirier became UFC interim lightweight world champions. Both men also fought Khabib Nurmagomedov and lost via submission. Now, after both have picked up stellar victories over names like Conor McGregor, Michael Chandler, and Rafael Fiziev, Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje fight at UFC 291 for the vacant BMF title, which was famously held by Jorge Masvidal after defeating Nate Diaz. The two are the main event of 291 and will follow several amazing fights, including Jan Blachowicz vs Alex Pereira, Tony Ferguson vs Bobby Green, and fights containing Paulo Costa and Wonderboy Thompson.

  42. 4

    Which UFC Fighter is the BEST Backup for a Street Fight?

    Some of the best UFC fighters on the planet have gotten into streetfights at some point or another, but which professional MMA fighter on the UFC rankings or in all of UFC history would be the best backup for a bar fight or a streetfight? If I had to pick the best UFC fighters for a street fight, I would have a few fighters on my list. Former UFC interim lightweight champions Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje would be amazing options as backup in a bar fight, as would the UFC heavyweight champion jon jones.Some other good options of UFC fighters who would be great backup in a street fight would be UFC lightheavyweight champion Chuck Liddell, Former UFC heavyweight champion Francis Ngannou, Knockout Record-holder Derrick Lewis, exciting UFC heavyweight Tai Tuivasa, UFC welterweight superstar Jorge Masvidal, former UFC champion and the Underground King Eddie Alvarez, Kevin Holland, former UFC welterweight champion Robbie Lawler, former UFC lightweight champion RDA, UFC standouts Donald Cowboy Cerrone, Leon Edwards, Israel Adesanya, and Khamzat Chimaev.

  43. 3

    These 5 UFC Rules NEED to Change (ASAP)

    The UFC rules are not perfect and need to be fixed in various ways. The unified rules of MMA that the UFC has adopted have led to silly rules like the 12 to 6 elbow and the grounded knee to be banned. Meaning that fighters like Jon Jones would get a disqualification loss for hitting Matt Hamill with 12 to 6 elbows. As well as Petr Yan getting a disqualification loss for hitting Aljamain Sterling with Knees to a grounded opponent. Both of these techniques should be completely legal in the UFC rules. Other corrections to the MMA rulebook would be to start the beginning of UFC rounds in the same position as the previous rounds ended as Joe Rogan has advocated for in the past. Headbutts are another technique that should be allowed in striking exchanges in the UFC and other MMA promotions because they allow fighters to break out of stalling positions in the UFC octagon. I also believe that if a UFC fighter digs their fingers into the glove of another UFC fighter, that should be an automatic point deduction. 0:00-Grounded knees 07:25-Starting Rounds in Previous Position 13:07-Glove Grab Penalty 15:01-12 to 6 Elbows 22:02-Headbutts

  44. 2

    Can Charles Oliveira Beat Islam Makhachev?

    Charles Oliveira recently defeated Beneil Dariush at UFC 289 via first-round TKO stoppage in an impressive UFC lightweight title eliminator. That means Charles Oliveira will face Islam Makhachev in Islma’s second UFC lightweight title defense. Islam is of course coming off his lightweight title defense against UFC featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski, which many thought Islam lost. These 2 performances by the UFC’s most elite lightweights give us more to consider as the Charles Oliveira and Islam Makhachev rematch lies ahead. Islam Makhachev could of course employ his dominant wrestling to once again, control Charles Oliveira on the ground and submit him in astonishing fashion as he did in their fight via arm triangle. Charles Oliveira can of course use his deadly muay thai to set up his strikes, knockdown Makhachev, and submit Islam via rear naked choke to become UFC lightweight champion once again.

  45. 1

    Can Sergei Pavlovich Beat Jon Jones?

    Stipe Miocic and Jon Jones may not be fighting later this year, which is tragic for UFC fans and MMA hardcores, but this allows terrifying heavyweight and rising knockout artist Sergei Pavlovich to step into the fold and perhaps challenge Jon Jones for his UFC heavyweight championship. In this episode of the MMA Pod, I explore the exciting UFC matchup between Jon Bones Jones and Sergei Pavlovich, identifying their strengths and weaknesses as mixed martial artists. Let me know what you think about this new UFC podcast hosted by Lionel Rivera and who you think wins in Jon Jones vs Sergei Pavlovich.

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ABOUT THIS SHOW

Lionel Rivera is an MMA content creator who makes thoughtful, long-form documentaries on UFC fighters, MMA legends, and the history of fighting.These documentaries are made for hardcore & casual MMA fans alike. Whether you came for the violent tales of modern-era favorites like Alex Pereira, Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev – or you came for the rich histories of old-school MMA legends like Bas Rutten and Don Frye, this is the place for you.My goal is to make more MMA fans & better MMA fans. Enjoy.

HOSTED BY

Lionel Rivera-Ramirez

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