Evan Montgomery

Kamaru Usman is currently set to defend the Welterweight title against Leon Edwards at UFC 278, but will make his first appearance on the big screen two months later.

The Welterweight champ will make a guest appearance in the upcoming Marvel movie, _Black Panther, Wakanda Forever_. Daniel Cormier first broke the news during the UFC 277 weigh-in show, and it was confirmed later by additional sources. 

No one knows what Usman's role will be in the upcoming superhero film, though it is something the champion has long requested. He publicly asked to be featured in the sequel back in 2019, along with social media posts featuring him in T'Challa's armor. 

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/uBIyyyiX7j">pic.twitter.com/uBIyyyiX7j</a></p>&mdash; KAMARU USMAN (@USMAN84kg) <a href="https://twitter.com/USMAN84kg/status/1211060305373122563?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 28, 2019</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Usman joins a stacked cast for _Black Panther: Wakanda Forever_, including the likes of Letitia Wright, Lupita Nyong’o, Danai Gurira, Winston Duke, and Angela Basset returning, along with new characters played by Dominique Thorne and Tenoch Huerta. Check out the first teaser trailer for the film below, dropped this past weekend at Comic-Con!

<iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/RlOB3UALvrQ" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe>


Kamaru Usman Lands Guest Role In 'Black Panther: Wakanda Forever'

Joey Kolnicki

The UFC returns to the APEX with another fantastic Fight Night card. In the co-main, two heavy-handed finishers will collide when Ryan Spann takes on Bogdan Guskov. In the main event, two premiere Flyweights look to insert themselves back into the title picture, Matheus Nicolau and Alex Perez. From top to bottom, this card is stacked with quickly-rising prospects and established veterans. Let's take a look at the fights on the main card. 

## Tim Means vs. Uros Medic

![tmeans1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/266acb81-3876-4ddc-8860-9d1f7ccfea00/public "Tim Means blasts Nicolas Dalby with a body shot. Credit: MMA Fighting.")

Means has won two of his last five outings and has wins over Mike Perry (14-8-0), Nicolas Dalby (23-4-1), and Andre Fialho (16-8-0). He’s about as gritty as they come and is always down for a good scrap. He has excellent dirty boxing in the clinch and devastating knees and elbows. Despite Means’ tendency to brawl, he remains technical and won’t overextend or overexert himself, always throwing efficiently. He has crisp boxing, underrated power, and does an excellent job of equally attacking the head and body. Training at Fit NHB, he uses an upright stance on the feet but moves his head very well and is willing to eat a shot to land one. Means averages over one takedown landed per fifteen minutes and is willing to mix it up, doing a great job of controlling his opponent when he’s on top. He always pushes the pace and hangs in the pocket, averaging about 79 significant strikes landed in his last five wins. 

![medic1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/7c5f9685-06c5-48e9-4abe-9c4d348a0400/public "Uros Medic blasts Omar Morales with a right hand. Credit: MMA Fighting.")

Medic has won three of his last five bouts and has UFC victories over Matthew Semelsberger (11-7-0), Omar Morales (11-4-0), and Aalon Cruz (11-5-0). He’s a powerful kickboxer with great footwork and excellent kicks. He does a great job varying his shots, attacking the head and body evenly. Medic throws everything with power but doesn’t telegraph; often, mixing kicks in at the end of combinations. Training at Kings MMA, he favors power to volume but has solid cardio and can push a consistent pace across fifteen minutes. He’s highly accurate, landing 60% of the significant strikes he’s attempted in the UFC, and can produce a flash knockout at any time. He won’t typically initiate grappling exchanges but will not accept position on his back and will pursue submissions. Medic has only seen the third round once, with seven of his eleven fights ending in round one.

## Jonathan Pearce vs. David Onama

![jpearce1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/923f01ac-ddbc-4fc0-d22f-4c2b94a39000/public "Jonathan Pearce fires off ground and pound at Kai Kamaka. Credit: MMA Fighting.")

Pearce has won four of his last five fights and has UFC victories over Darren Elkins (28-11-0), Christian Rodriguez (11-1-0), and Makwan Amirkhani (17-10-0). He’s a well-rounded scrapper who is willing to engage the fight anywhere. He’s an accurate, technical striker on the feet that throws everything tight and straight, never getting sloppy. Pearce has excellent head movement, footwork, and distance management, often avoiding strikes before countering with big shots. He’s averaging over five takedowns landed per fifteen minutes and is a very fluid grappler, transitioning quickly in top position. Training at Fight Ready, he’s always active on top and will constantly throw brutal ground and pound while looking for submission openings. Pearce is unpredictable, will attempt wild strikes like jumping knees, and continually creates scrambles. 

![onama1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/facec732-7c17-4142-157b-6fddc2c69700/public "David Onama lands a brutal right hand on Nate Landwehr. Credit: MMA Mania.")

Onama has won three of his last five fights, with his UFC victories coming over Gabriel Benitez (23-11-0) and Garrett Armfield (8-3-0). He is in perpetual motion on the feet and constantly switches stances. He’s always coming forward, fights behind his jab, and throws every shot with fight-ending intentions. Onama has finished all ten of his wins, with six coming in the first round, so he’s most dangerous early in the fight. He manages distances well and will land damage from the outside, but is more than willing to bang inside the pocket. Training at FactoryX Muay Thai, he’s a solid grappler with great clinch control, decent takedowns, and advances position quickly on the ground. Onama is likelier to pursue a submission than a ground-and-pound finish and has excellent chokes, with all his submission wins coming via some form of strangulation.

## Austen Lane vs. Jhonata Diniz

![alane2.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/d668bc58-d2b6-41cf-0c50-eacf99e47c00/public "Austen Lane rains down ground and pound on Richard Jacobi. Credit: MMA Junkie.")

Lane has won three of his last five outings with one No Contest and is looking to score his first UFC victory. He is a lengthy striker who often opens up with a barrage of kicks before blitzing in to unleash combinations. He’s very explosive, throws everything in combination, and spends much of his time in the cage brawling inside the pocket. Training at Bulldog Boxing, Lane has solid power in his hands and decent cardio, carrying his punching capacity across 15 minutes. He is a former NFL player and has finished all his wins, with only two fights in his career seeing a second round. While he won’t typically engage in grappling exchanges, he will throw heavy ground-and-pound if he finds himself in top position. Lane has shown an ability to survive off his back and will pursue submissions if given the opportunity.

![diniz1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/bbece7ed-3f9a-4b57-e3fa-b69dc3c32300/public "Jhonata Diniz looks to land a final shot against Eduardo Neves. Credit: Zuffa LLC.")

Diniz is undefeated and making his UFC debut. He’s a former professional kickboxer with a record of 29-7 and fifteen knockout wins. He throws everything with power and can produce a knockout with a single clean shot. Diniz constantly presses forward and cuts off the cage well, often closing the distance to unload hooks. He remains technical throughout and varies his shots well, attacking the head, body, and legs. Training with the Santa Fe Team, he throws bombs but won’t telegraph and does an excellent job of mixing kicks into combinations. Diniz has finished all his MMA wins in round one, along with eight of his kickboxing wins, and is most dangerous early on.

## #12 Ariane Lipski vs. #13 Karine Silva

![lipski1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/df11681d-7f6f-414d-aed3-755172c50300/public "Ariane Lipski brutally submits Casey O'Neill. Credit: MMA Fighting.")

Lipski has won four of her last five fights and has UFC victories over #14 ranked Casey O’Neill (9-2-0), Melissa Gatto (8-2-2), and JJ Aldrich (13-6-0). She is a classic Muay Thai fighter with constant forward pressure, great clinch striking, and voluminous striking. She does an excellent job of varying her shots, often opening combos with a body jab before attacking upstairs. Lipski has great footwork and typically holds the center of the octagon, keeping her opponent on their heels. Training with Team Nunes, she remains technical across all 15 minutes and often looks to counter-strike, waiting for her opponent to open up before unleashing combinations. She’s willing to grapple and has great defensive wrestling, with 79% takedown defense and a fantastic ability to reverse attempts and land on top. Lipski is at her best in a technical striking battle where she can hold the center and control the pace.

![ksilva1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/a01c3c27-a5ed-4ee4-49fd-cc39b128a600/public "Karine Silva forces Ketlen Souza to submit to a leg lock. Credit: MMA Fighting.")

Silva is on an eight-fight win streak and has UFC victories over Maryna Moroz (11-6-0), Ketlen Souza (13-4-0), and Poliana Botelho (9-5-0). She is a dangerous submission artist with solid power in her hands. She’s in perpetual motion on the feet, constantly feinting and opening combinations with kicks. Silva throws everything in combination and has excellent clinch striking, often using it to set up her grappling. Training with the Gile Ribeiro Team, she’s averaging over 2 takedowns landed and over 4 submissions attempted per fifteen minutes. She has excellent takedown entries, transitions quickly in top position, and can wrap up submissions seemingly in the blink of an eye. Silva has found six of her eight submissions in round one and has only seen the second round once in her last eight fights. 

## #11 Ryan Spann vs. Bogdan Guskov

![spann1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/82bb0f2c-85df-4c0e-50e4-03007a1c6600/public "Ryan Spann exchanges punches with Sam Alvey. Credit: DraftKings Network.")

Spann has won two of his last five outings and has UFC victories over #14 ranked Light Heavyweight Dominick Reyes (12-4-0), Misha Cirkunov (15-9-0), and Ion Cutelaba (17-10-1). He’s exceptionally dangerous early on, with 16 of his 18 career finishes coming in the first round. He pushes a heavy pace from the starting bell, constantly throwing overhands and hooks. Spann is dangerous on top and on his back, especially if he can get ahold of his opponent’s neck, with all of his submission wins coming via some form of choke, with nine of those being guillotines. On the feet, he throws everything with fight-ending intentions and possesses one-shot knockout power, especially in his right hand. Training at Fortis MMA, Spann fights with a kill-or-be-killed mentality on the feet and on the ground, with 5 of his seven losses coming via finish and only three of his wins coming via decision. 

![guskov1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/f054f016-e0c0-4068-eb2e-550023a27c00/public "Bogdan Guskov exchanges punches with Volkan Oezdemir. Credit: MMA Junkie.")

Guskov has won four of his last five bouts and has a UFC victory over Zach Pauga (6-3-0). He’s a heavy-handed striker who comes out guns blazing. He applies heavy forward pressure and always looks for a knockout, throwing every shot with fight-ending intentions. Training at GOR MMA, Guskov will throw the occasional kick but does most of his damage in the pocket, fighting in a phonebooth. He has power in both hands but is seemingly always looking to set up his right, constantly unleashing devastating overhands. He has 12 finishes in the first round and has only gone to one decision, as well as only seeing the third round twice in his career. Guskov tends to headhunt and is willing to eat a shot to land one, but he has good head movement and moves in and out of the pocket very efficiently.

## #5 Matheus Nicolau vs. #8 Alex Perez

![nicolau1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/da23cef1-3c38-4d70-631d-f54b3d87e200/public "Matheus Nicolau throws a front kick at Matt Schnell. Credit: Zuffa LLC.")

Nicolau has won four of his last five outings and has wins over #6 ranked Flyweight Manel Kape (19-6-0), #9 ranked Flyweight Tim Elliot (21-13-1), and #11 ranked Flyweight Matt Schnell (16-8-0). He is very defensively sound on the feet and won’t stay in one spot for long, with only 34% of significant strikes attempted on him landing. He often floats on the outside and has excellent distance management, regularly darting in and out of the pocket to land damage. Training at Novo União, Nicolau is a counter-striker who will often dip his head to throw overhands, especially with his right. He is a black belt in BJJ, averaging over one takedown landed and one submission attempted per fifteen minutes, but often prefers to keep it standing. His pace tends to increase as the fight continues, and he does a great job of changing levels and attacking both the head and body. All of Nicolau’s submissions have come via choke, and he’s extremely dangerous if he finds his opponent’s neck. 

![perez2.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/3af3d7a5-6a88-4eb7-2b1c-ab5c84bf3100/public "Alex Perez forces Jussier Formiga to crumble from his leg kicks. Credit: MMA Fighting.")

Perez has won two of his last five fights and has UFC victories over Jussier Formiga (24-8-0), Jordan Espinosa (15-10-0), and Mark De La Rosa (11-5-0). He is a well-rounded fighter with brutal leg kicks and solid wrestling. He pushes a heavy pace from bell to bell, constantly pressuring forward, dipping his head, and throwing bombs. Perez varies his shots well, attacking the head and body evenly and regularly targeting his opponent’s legs. He is averaging over two takedowns landed per fifteen minutes and has heavy top control. He’ll usually pursue a submission over ground and pound, and with six of his seven submissions coming via choke, he’s very dangerous if he finds his opponent’s neck. He’s always pursuing a finish, with eight of his eleven UFC fights not seeing the judge’s scorecards. Perez has gone to the second round twice since 2018 and is at his best early in the fight.

## Best Bets

_Jonathan Pearce **Moneyline:**_ This is one of the most interesting matchups on the card. Both are rising prospects and very well-rounded. Although Onama likely has a power advantage on the feet, I believe Pearce's wrestling will be the key in this fight. I expect Pearce to land repeated takedowns, control Onama, and earn a victory.

_Jhonata Diniz by **KO/TKO:**_ Although he's young in his MMA career, he competed professionally in kickboxing for well over a decade and is highly experienced. His opponent, Austen Lane, has solid power but proven to be rather finishable. Now facing a heavy-hitting, experienced striker, I don't expect him to fare much better than he did in his last fight. Diniz should be able to produce a knockout early on.

_Matheus Nicolau **Moneyline:**_ A bit of an odd matchup, both fighters are coming off tough losses and looking to put themselves back in the title conversation. While this will likely make both man push the pace, I believe Nicolau is the more well-rounded fighter and is a bit more dangerous all around. Perez is very tough, so I wouldn't rely on a finish, but Nicolau has the skills to pick up a win and re-enter title contention. 

UFC Fight Night: Nicolau vs. Perez Preview

Douglas Vegas Bets

The PFL is set to kick off the season for another pair of weight classes this Friday as Featherweights and Welterweights take center stage. This event will be held on April 19th at the Wintrust Arena in Chicago, Illinois, beginning at 6:30 PM EST. 

Today, we'll go over the Featherweights (145 Ibs) competing in the PFLs 2024 regular season, highlighting their resumes, skillsets, and matchups this weekend.

## Enrique Barzola

Record: 20-7-2 (4-2 Bellator)

Height: 5ft 7in

Reach: 70in

Nationality: Peruvian

Fighting out of: Lima, Peru

Opponent: Adam Borics

Barzola first turned pro in 2012 before earning a spot on The Ultimate Fighter Latin America Season 2, which helped him earn a place in the UFC, where he eventually compiled a 6-3-1 record.

![enrique-barzola-ufc-fight-night-78.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/a143c4f5-efea-4edb-ea70-d6ab3c796500/public "Enrique Barzola during his UFC run. Credits: MMA Junkie")

Since joining Bellator, he has had mixed success, although he enters this matchup having won each of his last two fights against Jaylon Bates and Erik Perez.

## Adam Borics

Record: 18-2-0 (9-2 Bellator)

Height: 5ft 11in

Reach: 70.5in

Nationality: Hungarian

Fighting out of: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Opponent: Enrique Barzola

Borics turned pro in 2014 and began his career on a 14-0 run before facing Darion Caldwell, who remains one of just two losses on Borics' record.

![Borics-vs-Hamel-1.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/167f3c67-2449-4c2d-9c40-3722e7e77c00/public "Adam Borics walking out. Credits to: Bellator MMA")

He enters this season off a failed attempt to claim the Bellator title from Patricio Pitbull, where Borics would lose a unanimous decision.

## Gabriel Braga

Record: 12-1 (4-1 PFL)

Height: 5ft 9in

Reach: 72in

Nationality: Brazilian

Fighting out of: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Opponent: Justin Gonzales

Braga debuted in 2018 and made his way to the PFL through the challenger series with a win over Ago Huskic. 

![9f516ce57c9ebf219f71596f180169e1 (1).jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/2756ee37-e5b3-42d7-b719-4660e70bee00/public "Gabriel Braga before the 2023 PFL World Championship. Credits: Cooper Neill/PFL")

After making a run to the championship last year, Braga was handed his first career loss in a rematch with Jesus Pinedo, who won by stoppage despite some argument about the ending being premature.

## Pedro Carvalho

Record: 13-8 (6-5 Bellator)

Height: 5ft 11in

Reach: 70.5in

Nationality: Portuguese

Fighting out of: Dublin, Ireland

Opponent: Brendan Loughnane

Carvalho debuted on the regional scene in Portugal, where he began to develop his skills as a talented submission artist.

![pedro-carvalho-bellator-europe-2.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/691f2706-10bf-46e8-a95e-41e70700e200/public "Pedro Carvalho weighs in with Bellator MMA. Credits: MMA Junkie")

Carvalho enters this season having lost three of his last four, with the most recent being a first-round finish by Aaron Pico.

## Justin Gonzales

Record: 14-3 (3-3 Bellator)

Height: 5ft 9in

Reach: 72in

Nationality: American

Fighting out of: Greely, Colorado

Opponent: Gabriel Braga

Gonzales turned pro in 2016 after a solid amateur career.

![justin-gonzales-dwcs-18-weigh-in.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/9dfe6ba7-9b95-4747-07d3-dea75269c100/public "Justin Gonzales weighing in before his Contender Series fight. Credits: MMA Junkie")

He enters this season, losing each of his last two via decision to Timur Khizriev and Mads Burnell.

## Bubba Jenkins

Record: 21-7 (7-3 PFL)

Height: 5ft 8in

Reach: 72in

Nationality: American

Fighting out of: California

Opponent: Kai Kamaka

Jenkins has been a well-known name in the MMA world for some time. His debut came back in 2011, and he has competed in both Bellator and PFL for lengthy periods. He has used his wrestling style to dominate many opponents and his fun personality to gain many fans.

![36595e5f-097a-4ca4-a769-9987461798f3-1651090003113 (1).jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/f2519eac-1715-4700-83d9-c641cb92d800/public "Bubba Jenkins smiles for a picture at a PFL media day. Credits: Matt Ferris / PFL")

After earning the top seed last season, Jenkins was upset by eventually champion Jesus Pinedo in the playoffs as Pinedo survived early to secure a late second-round knockout.

## Brett Johns

Record: 20-3 (1-0 PFL)

Height: 5ft 7in

Reach: 69in

Nationality: Welsh

Fighting out of: Swansea, Wales

Opponent: Timur Khizriev

After a solid start to his career, mostly in Cage Warriors, Johns joined the UFC, where he put together a respectable 5-2 run. His only losses were to future champion Aljamain Sterling and established veteran Pedro Munhoz.

![NINTCHDBPICT000556634349.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/5f3c40e3-edc2-4310-e4e1-a40a7f32d400/public "Brett Johns before one of his UFC fights. Credits: Zuffa LLC via Getty Images")

Johns is coming off a win on PFL Europe over David Tonatiuh Crol, which extended his victory streak to three entering this season.

## Kai Kamaka

Record: 12-5-1 (6-1 Bellator)

Height: 5ft 7in

Reach: 68in

Nationality: American

Fighting out of: Pearl City, Hawaii

Opponent: Bubba Jenkins

Kamaka, who has a background in kickboxing, made his pro debut in 2011. He then made his way to the UFC, where he left the organization with a 1-2-1 record before joining Bellator.

![kai-kamaka-bellator-272-weigh-ins.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/72d55b92-4991-412e-b33e-426ae2805700/public "Kai Kamaka at a weigh-in with Bellator. Credits: MMA Junkie")

He enters this season having won three straight, most recently with a decision over Henry Corrales at Bellator 300.

## Timur Khizriev

Record: 14-0 (3-0 Bellator)

Height: 5ft 9in

Reach: 68.5in

Nationality: Russian

Fighting out of: Makhachkala, Dagestan, Russia

Opponent: Brett Johns

Khizriev debuted in 2014, but shortly after his debut, he took two years away before returning in late 2016.

![timur-khizriev-bellator-288-ceremonial-weigh-ins (1).jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/c424a5ba-0267-4f28-b994-7378f5f34e00/public "Timur Khizriev at weigh-ins during his time with Bellator. Credits: Lucas Noonan/ Bellator MMA")

Khizriev enters this season off his win over Justin Gonzales, bringing his Bellator run to 3-0.

## Brendan Loughnane

Record: 27-5 (9-2 PFL)

Height: 5ft 9in

Reach: 71in

Nationality: English

Fighting out of: Manchester, England

Opponent: Pedro Carvalho

Loughnane has become a very recognizable face in the PFL, and his background in the organization is interesting. Despite winning over Bill Algeo on Dana White's Contender Series, he was not offered a contract, which led him to sign with the PFL.

![0_C1N06399.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/633de18f-c3f7-4ec0-5ae3-e13b7115f400/public "Brendan Loughnane during his championship win over Bubba Jenkins in 2022. Credits: Cooper Neill / PFL") 

Despite winning the championship in 2022, Loughnane's season was cut short last year after he was upset by Jesus Pindeo in the regular season.

Who are you most looking forward to out of these fighters? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know in the comments below.

PFL 2024 Season: Featherweight Spotlight

Liam Lindsay

This weekend, one of the PFLs most exciting fighters, Bubba Jenkins, returns for his first fight of the 2024 Regular Season, taking on former UFC and Bellator veteran Kai Kamaka III. Ahead of Friday night, the “Bad Man” spoke with the media to discuss his upcoming matchup.

Bubba Jenkins has competed in the PFL tournament three times in his career, making it to the semi-finals twice and the finals the other time, but has never been able to capture PFL gold. When asked what’s different this year, Jenkins had an optimistic response.

> I’m putting it all together this year; I’ve gotta have the right mindset… I’ve got more experience, and I think we put it all together this year. - Bubba Jenkins

Jenkins was also asked about his desire to return to the PFL and, with the Bellator merger and PFL Champions series, why Jenkins opted to come back for his fourth straight PFL tournament.

> Because I haven’t won a Championship; the jobs not done. - Bubba Jenkins

We also asked his thoughts on his opponent, Kai Kamaka III, riding a three-fight win streak in Bellator.

> Kai is an awesome fighter and a good person. My head coach is Dewey (Cooper), and he is Eric Nicksick, so there’s a rivalry. He’s also coming off a motivational weekend with Holloway winning, but I’m not Gaethje, and he’s not Max. - Bubba Jenkins

Tune in to PFL 3 (2024) this Friday to see Bubba Jenkins alongside the Welterweights and Lightweights of the PFL Regular Season.

"The job is not done." Bubba Jenkins Previews PFL 3 (2024) Return

UFC 300 is over, but fans aren't going to forget it any time soon. The historic event delivered on all fronts, from the promotion to the fights; the UFC was running on full steam all fight week. But what's next? What did we learn from the event? Today, we will discuss the biggest stories coming out of UFC 300.

## Max Holloway Is HIM, And He Has Options

Despite being the third fight on the main card, the name everybody has in their mouths post-UFC 300 is Max "Blessed" Holloway. The future hall of fame fighter secured the upset against BMF Champion Justin Gaethje, KOing him brutally with a second left to go in the final round. He's now riding a three-fight win streak, his longest since losing the title to Alexander Volkanovski.

So, what's next? Holloway is the #1 contender at Featherweight, the symbolic BMF Champion, and is coming off a KO win over the #3 ranked Lightweight. He could choose to fight Ilia Topuria or take another fight at Lightweight to potentially earn a title shot there. Whatever is next for "Blessed," the world will be watching.

```iframe
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The oddsmakers are always confident in Israel Adesanya.<br><br>He&#39;s lost 3 fights to Alex Pereira, but the oddsmakers still have him as a favorite heading into this weekend.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC287?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC287</a> <a href="https://t.co/0MF4krsH1v">pic.twitter.com/0MF4krsH1v</a></p>&mdash; Verdict (@TournamentsMMA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1779363924116480142">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
```


## You CANNOT Stand With Alex Pereira

Jamahal Hill spoke a very big game heading into UFC 300, and considering he's never been dropped, let alone KOed before in professional MMA, you can understand why. But Alex Pereira proved that you cannot stand on the feet with him, at Middleweight or Light-Heavyweight.

```iframe
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The oddsmakers are always confident in Israel Adesanya.<br><br>He&#39;s lost 3 fights to Alex Pereira, but the oddsmakers still have him as a favorite heading into this weekend.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC287?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC287</a> <a href="https://t.co/0MF4krsH1v">pic.twitter.com/0MF4krsH1v</a></p>&mdash; Verdict (@TournamentsMMA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1779381736226410878">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
```

Pereira has now finished Strickland, Adesanya, Prochazka, and Hill and earned a decision over Blachowicz. That's five former Champions he's been able to beat. His next opponent will likely be Magomed Ankalaev, and if the Russian wants to increase his odds of winning, he'll avoid the standup of "Poatan" at all costs.

## Arman Tsarukyan Is The Best Next-Gen Lightweight

In the past two years, the Lightweight division has seen a surge of new contenders, and after his loss to Gamrot, many fans wrote off Tsarukyan. But one by one, the division's veterans have been holding down the fort, with Poirier KOing Saint-Denis, Gaethje beating Fiziev, and Dariush defeating Gamrot.

But no, Arman Tsarukyan, he would not be denied. "Ahalkalakets" ran through Dariush in December and has now secured a win over Charles Oliveira. Regardless of what you thought of the decision, Tsarukyan clearly demonstrated he belongs at the top of the division, and the matchup with Islam Makhachev is going to be incredible next.

## Diego Lopes Is A Future Title Challenger

Diego Lopes was awarded the fastest finish at UFC 300. The Brazilian star has only been in the UFC for a year, but he already has fans in every corner of the earth. But outside of the funny haircut and fan-friendly fighting style, Lopes is a severe problem for 145.

His power is absurd for Featherweight, and while he lacks somewhat defensively on the feet, he makes up for it with his chin and relentless pressure. On top of that, he has a fantastic BJJ game, clearly on display with his fights against Gavin Tucker and Movsar Evloev. The division is wide open in the middle, and Lopes is going to come steaming through this year.

```iframe
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">The oddsmakers are always confident in Israel Adesanya.<br><br>He&#39;s lost 3 fights to Alex Pereira, but the oddsmakers still have him as a favorite heading into this weekend.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC287?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC287</a> <a href="https://t.co/0MF4krsH1v">pic.twitter.com/0MF4krsH1v</a></p>&mdash; Verdict (@TournamentsMMA) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1779303740077453549">April 5, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
```

What was your biggest takeaway from UFC 300? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know with a comment down below.

The Biggest Stories Coming Out of UFC 300

Liam Mooney

Aljamain Sterling is arguably the best Bantamweight of all time; before his defeat to Sean O'Malley, Sterling had won nine straight fights, defending the title three times. And after an excellent performance against Calvin Kattar, Sterling has the potential to mix up the Featherweight division. With his first win as a Featherweight in the UFC against a top contender, the "Funkmaster" now faces the question of who is next. Here are three potential opponents he could face moving forward.

## Brian Ortega (#3)

Brain Ortega had a great comeback victory against Yair Rodriguez, ultimately propelling himself into a potential title match. However, with question marks around who the champion will fight next and whether Alexander Volkanovski will get his immediate rematch, it leaves him free for a substantial amount of time. Given his long layoff previously, it would make sense for him to stay active, and a win over Sterling could all but cement a title shot in the future. The same would go for Sterling, who would step up in competition against a top 5 opponent; a victory would also fast-track him to a title shot and give the fans a great matchup.

## Movosar Evloev (#5)

Evloev is also coming off an impressive victory against Arnold Allen and is certainly a contender for a title shot soon. Sterling has proven himself in the Bantamweight division, so a fight against a top-five opponent next would make sense if the UFC is looking to push him toward the title, and Evloev could be the final missing piece to that puzzle. 

## Josh Emmet (#7)

If the UFC is not looking to throw Sterling into title talk directly, then Josh Emmet could be the perfect next challenge. Emmet is coming off his unbelievable knockout victory over Bryce Mitchell and is ranked one place high than Kattar. Emmet also possesses unworldly power and would be a statement victory should Sterling be able to pull off a victory competing in his new weight class. 

Who would you like to see Sterling face next? Let us know with a comment below.

Aljamain Sterlings Next Fight in The UFC

The biggest card of the year is here, as UFC 300 is underway from T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas! Follow along with the results all night long down below.

## Early Prelims

## Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Cody Garbrandt

Result: Deiveson Figueiredo def. Cody Garbrandt via Submission (Read-Naked-Choke) in Round 2, 4:02

Division: Bantamweight

Referee: Mark Smith

After a slow round one, Figueiredo secured a takedown and transitioned to the back to secure the choke.

## Bobby Green vs. Jim Miller

Result: Bobby Green def. Jim Miller via Unanimous decision (30-27, 30-25, 29-26)

Division: Lightweight

Referee: Marc Goddard

In round one, Jim Miller hurt Green badly by dropping him, but later in the round, Green found his timing. In round two, Green upped the volume and received a cut over Miller's eye. Green dominated the final round, landing hard shots and backing Miller up, nearly getting the finish at the very end of the fight.

## Jessica Andrade vs. Marina Rodriguez

Result: Jessica Andrade def. via split decision Marina Rodriguez (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Division: Strawweight

Referee: Chris Tognoni

Rodriguez landed a high volume of strikes and made some submission attempts, although Andrade showed a clear power advantage by landing the more impactful shots throughout.

## Jalin Turner vs. Renato Moicano

Result: Renato Moicano def. Jalin Turner via TKO (Ground and Pound) Round 2, 4:11

Division: Lightweight

Referee: Herb Dean

Early, Turner landed a kick that hurt Moicano before getting taken down and controlled before a late right hand that Turner didn't follow up on. In Round Two, Moicano took over and eventually got a stoppage with dominant ground and pound.

## Prelims

## Sodiq Yusuff vs. Diego Lopes

Result: Diego Lopes def. Sodiq Yusuff via TKO Round 1, 1:29

Division: Featherweight

Referee: Mark Smith

Lopes landed an early uppercut and poured it on from there to get the stoppage from Mark Smith.

## Holly Holm vs. Kayla Harrison

Result: Kayla Harrison def. Holly Holm via Submission (Rear-Naked-Choke) Round 2, 1:47

Division: Bantamweight

Referee: Marc Goddard

Kayla Harrison showed her grappling dominance in her debut by controlling, pounding on, and eventually submitting former champion Holly Holm.

## Calvin Kattar vs. Aljamain Sterling

Result: Aljamain Sterling def. Calvin Kattar via Unanimous decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Division: Featherweight

Referee: Jason Herzog

Aljamain Sterling dominated Calvin Kattar showing a clear edge in the wrestling on his way to a clear decision win.

## Jiri Prochazka vs. Aleksandar Rakic

Result: Jiri Prochazka def. Aleksandar Rakic via Knockout Round 2, 3:17

Division: Light Heavyweight

Referee: Herb Dean

After eating a crazy amount of low calf kicks, Prochazka began to land massive punches and drop Rakic before pounding him out.

## Main Card

## Bo Nickal vs. Cody Brundage

Result: Bo Nickal def. Cody Brundage via Submission (Rear-Naked-Choke) Round 2, 3:38

Division: Middleweight

Referee: Chris Tognoni

After some wild strikes early, Nickal secured the takedown and controlled Brundage for round one. In round two, after securing the mount, Nickal forced Brundage to give up the back and took his neck.

## Charles Oliveira vs. Arman Tsarukyan

Result: Arman Tsarukyan def. Charles Oliveira via Split decision (29-28, 28-29, 29-28)

Division: Lightweight

Referee: Mark Smith

In a wild back-and-forth affair that saw Oliveira nearly submit Tsarukyan multiple times, Tsarukyan's wrestling and elbows would get his hand raised via split decision.

## Justin Gaethje vs. Max Holloway

Result: Max Holloway def. Justin Gaethje via Knockout Round 5, 4:59

Division: Lightweight

Referee: Marc Goddard

In a wild fight, Max Holloway proved he is one of the greatest of all time by putting on a masterclass performance, eventually landing a hellacious right hand at the final second to get the highlight knockout.

## Weili Zhang vs. Yan Xionan

Result: Weili Zhang def. Yan Xionan via Unanimous decision (49-45 x3)

Division: Strawweight

Referee: Jason Herzog

In a dominant showing, Zhang Weili secured a choke that rendered Yan unconscious to end round one. The fight continued, and Zhang used her wrestling to control Yan and pound on her for round two and most of the final two rounds after a tough third.

## Alex Pereira vs. Jamahal Hill

Result: Alex Pereira def. Jamahal Hill via Knockout Round One, 3:14

Division: Light Heavyweight

Referee: Herb Dean

It was over quick as Pereira landed a clean left hook early that put the lights out.

UFC 300 Results

Jim Miller's journey to competing at UFC 300 is a testament to his enduring presence in the world of mixed martial arts. As a fighter who has been part of the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) roster since 2008 and a professional since 2005, Miller's career has nearly two decades of high-level competition, setting records and achieving milestones that few fighters can claim. His fight this weekend with Bobby Green will mark his 44th appearance in the UFC. Unsurprisingly, Miller holds the record for the most fights under the UFC banner. 


Jim Miller was born in Sparta Township, New Jersey, on January 16, 1985. He began wrestling at the age of four and won a state championship by the age of seven. After a brief stint in Lock Haven University's Division I wrestling program, Miller returned to Sparta, where he trained in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu under Roberto Maia at the BJJ Revolution Team. He made his professional MMA debut in April 2005, showcasing his grappling prowess from the start.


![gettyimages-102534874-1024x1024-transformed.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/fb90922a-1e26-47cc-b060-1f1177b91000/public "Jim Miller (red shorts) def. David Baron (black/flame shorts) - Submission (rear naked choke) - 3:19 round 3 during UFC 89 at The NIA on October 18, 2008 in Birmingham, England. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images.")


Miller made his UFC debut on October 18, 2008, at UFC 89, where he submitted David Baron with a rear-naked choke. This victory marked the beginning of his storied career in the UFC, where he would face a who's who of the lightweight division, including Frankie Edgar, Benson Henderson, Nate Diaz, Dustin Poirier, Charles Oliveria, Anthony Pettis, and Dan Hooker, among others.

Jim Miller's impact on the sport of MMA, particularly within the UFC, is significant. He holds the UFC record for most fights (43), most wins (26), and most submission attempts (48). These records speak to his longevity, versatility, and aggressive fighting style that has made him a fan favorite and a respected figure among his peers


![GettyImages-102525408-2.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/f0fe6258-aa4f-4753-4dc1-44e75c2ec600/public "im Miller (orange/black shorts) def. Mac Danzig (blue/white shorts) - Unanimous Decision during UFC 100 at Mandalay Bay Events Center on July 11, 2009 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Josh Hedges/Zuffa LLC.")


One of the most notable milestones in Miller's career is his distinction as the only fighter to win at both UFC 100 and UFC 200. At UFC 100, held on July 11, 2009, Miller defeated Mac Danzig by unanimous decision. Seven years later, at UFC 200 on July 9, 2016, Miller made history by becoming the first fighter to win at both landmark events, defeating Takanori Gomi with a vicious ground-and-pound TKO victory in the first round. These victories cemented Miller's legacy and highlighted his ability to perform on the biggest stages.

As UFC 300 approached, UFC CEO Dana White confirmed that Jim Miller would be part of this historic event, making him the only fighter to compete at UFC 100, UFC 200, and UFC 300. This achievement underscores Miller's remarkable longevity and continued relevance in the sport. Miller's journey to UFC 300 is not just a personal milestone but also a celebration of his contributions to MMA and the UFC. His records for most fights wins, and submission attempts in the UFC are a testament to his skill, resilience, and passion for fighting.


![GettyImages-545709680-2.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/1d1c2e7c-c857-47f4-6f0a-000af6f9b200/public "Jim Miller (top) wrestles with Takanori Gomi of Japan in their lightweight bout during the UFC 200 event on July 9, 2016 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Harry How/Zuffa LLC.")


Jim Miller's journey to UFC 300 is a narrative of perseverance, skill, and an unwavering love for the sport of MMA. From his early days in Sparta, New Jersey, to the bright lights of the UFC Octagon, Miller has faced the best fighters in the world and has left an indelible mark on the sport. As he prepares to step into the Octagon at UFC 300, Miller's legacy as one of the most durable and skilled fighters in UFC history is already secure. His story inspires, showcasing what is possible with hard work, dedication, and a never-say-die attitude.




Jim Miller's Journey To UFC:300

ROUNDHOUSE MMA

Jiri Prochazka was fighting for the undisputed UFC light heavyweight title last November in the main event of UFC 295 against the man headlining UFC 300 this weekend, Alex Pereira. Prochazka ultimately came up short, but it's crazy to see a fighter of his style and popularity competing on the featured prelim this weekend on a monumental card. Jiri has had a very short UFC career, but he has become a champion, fought for two titles, and has fought the absolute best competition. 

Let's take a look at his best and most memorable fights in his mixed martial arts career. 

## Jiri Prochazka vs Muhammad Lawal - RIZIN 15

Jiri Prochazka's final fight before entering the UFC was likely the one that made Dana White pull the trigger and sign the light heavyweight standout. This fight was an entertaining back-and-forth, with Prochazka earning the third-round finish, winning the RIZIN Light Heavyweight title. Dana White immediately saw something in Prochazka and signed him to fight in the UFC. From there, the rest is history. 

## Jiri Prochazka vs Volkan Oezdemir - UFC 251

Jiri's UFC debut came against Volkan Oezdemir, who was a staple of the Light Heavyweight division and a former title challenger. This was the biggest fight of his career, and a huge test to see if the Czech prospect had what it took to become something in the UFC. Jiri came out of the gate very aggressively and earned a quick finish early into the second round over Oezdemir. The UFC had their contender. 

## Jiri Prochazka vs Dominick Reyes - UFC Fight Night

The fight that got Jiri his title shot was a memorable one. Dominick Reyes was looking to get back on track with a win, but Prochazka was looking to announce his arrival in the Light Heavyweight division in a big way and declare himself next for the title. Prochazka earned himself a title shot in spectacular fashion, missing on an overhand and following it up with a spinning back elbow that connected and sent Reyes falling face-first into the UFC canvas. Truly one of the most spectacular knockouts of the year, and a samurai was born. 

## Jiri Prochazka vs Glover Teixeira - UFC 275

The final fight on this list is Jiri's most memorable performance, his mark as a UFC fighter. Jiri Prochazka took on Glover Teixeira for the UFC lightweight title in Singapore at UFC 275. This was one of the best fights of the year, with both men having significant moments in the fight and coming very close to finishing one another. Glover was intent on grappling, and after hurting Jiri in the fifth and final round, he made the crucial mistake of going for a takedown and ended up in a vulnerable position in which he was choked out in the last round. It was a bloody, violent affair and in the end, Jiri Prochazka was the best Light Heavyweight in the world. 

Jiri Prochazka has had a fantastic career in mixed martial arts and has quickly risen to the top of the heap in the UFC. He takes on a returning Aleksandar Rakic this weekend at UFC 300, one of the most monumental cards in the promotion's history. 

Jiri Prochazka's Best Career Fights

The UFC has just unveiled its new gloves design, which will be the official gloves used at UFC events, DWCS events, TUF fights, and more from UFC 302 onwards. A magnitude of features have been adjusted, and we will cover the critical design changes here.

## Gloves Construction Changes

The gloves, now called the 3EIGHTs (5EIGHT gloves will be worn by UFC Champions and will be golden), have a new design that increases the tightness around the wrist area. This improves fighter comfort and reduces the chance of a glove grab occurring in a fight.

The gloves also feature a sleeker design with fewer seems. This adjustment was made to reduce the number of cuts and lacerations on fighters' faces. Changes were also made to the finger bindings to fix the same issue. 

The gloves now also feature scooped/angled finger holes, which are targeted to reduce bunching on the inside of the closed fist. This will hopefully also encourage fighters to keep a closed fist to decrease the number of eye pokes committed in fights.

## Weight and Sizeing

The difference in weight and sizing is a massive change to the UFC gloves. Depending on the size, UFC gloves will now weigh between 3 and 4.9 oz, a significant decrease from the previous gloves' weight of about 1 to 1.5 oz. The gloves will now also come in 10 different unisex styles, ranging from XXXS to XXXXL.

What do you think of the change in the new glove? As a member of the Verdict Community, let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

The UFC Reveals New Gloves to Debut at UFC 302

UFC 300 is going down tomorrow! Here's the weigh-in results for today.

## Main Card

**_Light Heavyweight:_** Alex Pereira (c) (**??? lbs**) vs. Jamahal Hill (**205 lbs**)

**_Women's Strawweight:_** Zhang Weili (c) (**115 lbs**) vs. Yan Xiaonan (**115 lbs**)

**_Lightweight:_** Justin Gaethje (**156 lbs**) vs. Max Holloway (**156 lbs**)

**_Lightweight:_** Charles Oliveira (**156 lbs**) vs. Arman Tsarukyan (**156 lbs**)

**_Middleweight:_** Bo Nickal (**186 lbs**) vs. Cody Brundage (**186 lbs**)

## Prelims

**_Light Heavyweight:_** Jiří Procházka (**206 lbs**) vs. Aleksandar Rakić (**206 lbs**)

**_Featherweight:_** Calvin Kattar (**145.5 lbs**) vs. Aljamain Sterling (**146 lbs**)

**_Women's Bantamweight:_** Holly Holm (**136 lbs**) vs. Kayla Harrison (**136 lbs**)

**_Featherweight:_** Sodiq Yusuff (**146 lbs**) vs. Diego Lopes (**146 lbs**)

## Early Prelims

**_Lightweight:_** Jalin Turner (**155.5 lbs**) vs. Renato Moicano (**156 lbs**)

**_Women's Strawweight:_** Jéssica Andrade (**116 lbs**) vs. Marina Rodriguez (**116 lbs**)

**_Lightweight:_** Bobby Green (**156 lbs**) vs. Jim Miller (**??? lbs**)

**_Bantamweight:_** Deiveson Figueiredo (**135.5**) vs. Cody Garbranft (**136)**

Which fight are you most excited for tomorrow? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.