Team Bodyshop: Building a stable of Bellator stars

MMA pioneer Antonio McKee helped create Team Bodyshop, a gym that brings in athletes from around the world to train at the highest level. That includes his son, A.J., who's on the Bellator 205 card.

Khabib slams McGregor

"I'm gonna make him tired and make him look bad," Nurmagomedov said Thursday upon his arrival in New York.

Lyoto Machida says being in Bellator makes him feel at 'home'

The former UFC champion is already feeling comfortable with his new employer.

Bellator should be credited with A.J. McKee's meteoric rise

The undefeated A.J. McKee will face John Macapá at Bellator 205 on Friday.

UFC Sao Paulo Under the Radar: Livia Renata Souza

After generating her buzz in Invicta FC, Livia Renata Souza makes her highly-anticipated UFC debut in Sao Paulo, Brazil against Alex Chambers this weekend.

Bellator 205 Under the Radar: Adam Borics

Featherweight Adam Borics has been climbing the ranks at Bellator MMA rather rapidly. He'll face a serious test during Bellator 205 on Friday, when he enters the cage with Josenaldo Silva.

Bellator Hawaii card announced for December 15 live on DAZN

The event will pit women's flyweight champion Ilima-Lei Macfarlane against Valérie Létourneau and Lyoto Machida against Rafael Carvalho as the co-main event. It also marks Bellator MMA's first trip to Hawaii.

UFC Moscow results: Aleksei Oleinik taps out Mark Hunt in the first round

An upset took place in the main event of UFC Moscow.

Three questions surrounding the debut of MMA Pro League

A new player is entering the MMA landscape. Sporting News spoke to HBO Sports executive Mark Taffet for answers to some of the questions about the revival of a classic fight format.

Combate Americas results: Jose Alday becomes first bantamweight champion

Combate Americas crowned its first champion in the 135-pound weight class Friday on DAZN.

UFC Moscow: Mark Hunt blasts Brock Lesnar, calls him a 'cheater'

Mark Hunt has some choice words about Brock Lesnar and doesn't think he's deserving of a shot against Daniel Cormier.

Under the Radar: Petr Yan is ready for his next challenge at UFC Moscow

Combate Americas events to be streamed on DAZN

The top Hispanic mixed martial arts promotion is coming to DAZN.

How to bet on UFC Moscow

Mark Hunt headlines the event against Aleksei Oleinik in the UFC's first trip to Russia.

Bellator to hold first event in Hawaii with Ilima-Lei Macfarlane title defense, Lyoto Machida debut

Big-time MMA will return to the island state, and the event will be streamed on DAZN.

Conor McGregor sued by fellow UFC fighter Michael Chiesa for UFC 223 incident

This lawsuit stems from McGregor's wild bus attack in April.

Nicco Montano found out she was getting stripped of her flyweight title on Instagram

Nicco Montano found out she was losing flyweight belt in a unique way.

Bellator reveals 10-man welterweight grand prix beginning at Bellator 206 on DAZN

Bellator announces a new tournament featuring their deepest weight class beginning on Sept. 29, exclusively on DAZN.

Joshua vs. Povetkin headlines launch of DAZN's live streaming service in U.S.

DAZN has launched its live sports streaming service in the U.S. with a stacked fall schedule, highlighted by a heavyweight clash between Anthony Joshua and Alexander Povetkin.

UFC 228: Tyron Woodley open to defending title at MSG against Colby Covington

It appears that welterweight champion Tyron Woodley has an opponent and a destination for his next title defense.

UFC 228 results: Tyron Woodley submits Darren Till to retain welterweight champion

Tyron Woodley returned from a 13-month layoff and submitted Darren Till in the second round of the main event at UFC 228.

UFC 228: Tyron Woodley highlights bonus winners

Four fighters win performance bonuses on a night of finishes.

UFC 228 Highlight: Aljamain Sterling notches Submission of the Year candidate

Watch Aljamain Sterling punch his ticket for a "Submission of the Year" contender against Cody Stamman with one of the most brutal kneebar submissions you will ever see.

UFC 228 Highlight: Geoff Neal with KO of the Year contender against Frank Camacho

Geoff Neal just provided a knockout of the year candidate in the UFC 228 prelims.

UFC 228: Woodley vs. Till fight date, PPV price, how to watch and live stream

Two championships will be on the line Sept. 8 in Dallas. Here's all you need to know.

UFC 228: SN staff predictions

Sporting News staff makes its picks for UFC 228, starting with the welterweight championship fight between Tryon Woodley and Darren Till.

UFC 228: Women's flyweight title fight is off after champion Nicco Montano is hospitalized

The co-main event of UFC 228 is canceled after the women's flyweight champion was hospitalized.

UFC 228: Overlooking Nicco Montano is a massive mistake

The UFC flyweight champion had a tougher road to get to UFC 228 than given credit for. Plus, she's a pioneer as the first Native American champion in UFC history.

UFC 228: Valentina Shevchenko wishes UFC would have adopted 125-pound weight class earlier

Women's flyweight title challenger Valentina Shevchenko gives her thoughts on the UFC implementing the latest weight classes for women's fighters.

How to bet on UFC 228

Tyron Woodley headlines the event in a bout against Darren Till.

UFC 228 Under the Radar: Tatiana Suarez

'Under the Radar' takes a closer look at rising prospect Tatiana Suarez, who is arguably the best prospect in the entire UFC.

UFC 228: Where is the respect for Tyron Woodley?

When it comes down to UFC champions, it can be argued that welterweight champion Tyron Woodley is the one who gets the least support from the promotion that he fights for.

UFC 228: Darren Till explains why he values greatness over dollars and cents

Darren Till has a singular goal: greatness.

UFC 228: Can Valentina Shevchenko be the UFC’s next major female star?

The void left by Ronda Rousey has yet to be filled in women's MMA. Could that all change with Valentina Shevchenko if she leaves UFC 228 with gold wrapped around her waist?

Floyd Mayweather Sr. claims there's 'a lot of interest' in Mayweather vs. McGregor II

Will Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Conor McGregor lock horns one more time? Mayweather's father certainly thinks so.

UFC 228: Darren Till sick of cutting weight, outlines plan to compete at middleweight

Darren Till has a direct message for those critical of his weight-cutting issues; he also says he has his sights set on moving up a division after a few more fights at welterweight.

UFC 229: Floyd Mayweather invites Conor McGregor to train at his gym

Floyd Mayweather would like to work with the man he defeated in his last career fight.

UFC Lincoln results: Justin Gaethje scores emphatic first-round knockout of James Vick

The lightweight got back on track in a big way during the main event.

Conor McGregor says Khabib Nurmagomedov's dad is a 'quivering coward'

Conor McGregor has choice words for the father of lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

UFC 229: The real reason the UFC is booking Tony Fergsuon to face Anthony Pettis

The former interim lightweight champion returns at UFC 229, but in what appears to be a unique circumstance.

UFC 232: Cris 'Cyborg' Justino vs. Amanda Nunes superfight is a go

The two best female fighters will finally lock horns at the end of 2018 in Las Vegas.

UFC Lincoln: Regardless of naysayers, Justin Gaethje refuses to alter his fighting style

If you think Justin Gaethje will change the way he goes about fighting, think again.

Khabib Nurmagomedov upset by 'modern Dagestan' holding hip-hop concert, causes uproar

UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov found himself in hot water for recent comments regarding a rap concert in the capital of Dagestan.

Anderson Silva 'absolutely' interested in Georges St-Pierre showdown

Anderson Silva hasn't closed the book on a matchup that UFC fans have long clamored for.

TJ Dillashaw responds to Gervonta Davis' challenge to a UFC fight: 'Bring It'

Gervonta Davis and TJ Dillashaw exchanged words on social media as Davis continues to tease that he could compete in mixed martial arts.

Nate Diaz on UFC future: 'I don't want to fight anybody'

Nate Diaz is slated to compete at UFC 230, but he doesn't appear to be as interested in getting back into the Octagon after finding out that Conor McGregor will be fighting at UFC 229.

Greg Hardy scores 17-second knockout on 'Dana White's Tuesday Night Contender Series'

Former NFL All-Pro Greg Hardy followed up his 57-second knockout in June with a 17-second knockout of Tebaris Gordon. "I was going to keep punching until the referee pulled me off," Hardy said.

SN exclusive: Combate Americas to have historic three-round title fight on Sept. 14

MMA promotion Combate Americas returns for the second half of their year on Friday, Sept. 14.

Georges St-Pierre 'interested' in the winner of Conor McGregor vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov

"GSP" would be willing to make a return to UFC — if he can make the weight, and if the UFC would have him back.

UFC 228: Ahead of first title shot, Darren Till putting 'legacy and greatness' ahead of family

As Darren Till prepares for his first title shot against welterweight champion Tyron Woodley, he shares a unique perspective on family and fighting.

The UFC: Where being a class act gets you nowhere

This past weekend in the UFC provided proof that the good guys of mixed martial arts finish last while those who commit "disgusting" acts are rewarded.

SN exclusive: Bellator welterweight grand prix is set, highlighted by Page vs. Daley grudge match

The Bellator welterweight grand prix matchups are set.

The case For TJ Dillashaw as the No. 1 pound-for-pound fighter in the UFC

T.J. Dillashaw believes that he's the best fighter in the world. Is he wrong? We break down his career accomplishments next to those ahead of him on the UFC pound-for-pound rankings.

Daniel Cormier open to Stipe Miocic rematch; but only if Brock Lesnar can’t fight

Daniel Cormier has opened the door to a rematch with Stipe Miocic. But only if Brock Lesnar is unable to compete.

Dana White on Henry Cejudo-TJ Dillashaw superfight, possible Demetrious Johnson rematch

Will champions Henry Cejudo and TJ Dillashaw square off in a superfight? Is Demetrious Johnson getting an immediate remach? Dana White fills us in.

UFC 227: Henry Cejudo ends Demetrious Johnson’s record title streak with split-decision victory

Henry Cejudo squeezed out a narrow split decision over Demetrious Johnson to become the new UFC flyweight champion.

UFC 227 results: TJ Dillashaw finishes Cody Garbrandt in first round to retain bantamweight title

UFC 227 featured two championship rematches. One champion retained and a shocking upset occurred in the other one.

Conor McGregor opens as betting underdog against Khabib Nurmagomedov

Oddsmakers have released their opening lines for the October 6 showdown between Conor McGregor and UFC lightweight champion Khabib Nurmagomedov.

Conor McGregor to face Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 in Las Vegas on October 6

Conor McGregor will end his hiatus from the Octagon when he challenges undefeated Khabib Nurmagomedov at UFC 229 in Las Vegas on October 6.

The unfortunate truth about Demetrious Johnson’s star power and who’s to blame

Demetrious Johnson is arguably the greatest mixed martial artist of all-time, but he's not earning or drawing like a top star. Who is to blame for this?

UFC 227: Dillshaw vs Garbrandt 2 betting odds

Nate Diaz returns after two-year layoff to fight Dustin Poirier at UFC 230 in NYC

Nate Diaz will end his hiatus from the Octagon to square off with top lightweight contender Dustin Poirier.

UFC 227: TJ Dillashaw blames the entertainment business on Cody Garbrandt receiving an immediate rematch

UFC bantamweight champion TJ Dillashaw didn't think Cody Garbrandt deserved an immediate title rematch after knocking him out in the second round last November, but he understands why it has to happen.

UFC 227: How video games bring out a 'different side' of Demetrious Johnson

The UFC flyweight champion, arguably the best fighter to ever put on a pair of gloves, is passionate about something that makes him more relatable to fans.

UFC 227: How science will help Henry Cejudo beat Demetrious Johnson

Henry Cejudo tells Sporting News why science is the reason he'll beat UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson at UFC 227.

Conor McGregor says he's 'very close' to UFC return

Is Conor McGregor nearing a return to the Octagon?

UFC 227: Dillashaw vs. Garbrandt 2 fight date, PPV price, how to watch and live stream

Two championship rematches take place on August 4 in Los Angeles. Here's all you need to know.

UFC on Fox 30: What's next for Dustin Poirier, Jose Aldo and Joanna Jedrzejczyk?

Now that the dust has settled, Sporting News discusses what is next for the winners at UFC on Fox 30.

UFC on Fox 30 results: Dustin Poirier makes statement, stops Eddie Alvarez

Contender Dustin Poirier takes it to the former lightweight champion during their rematch in Calgary.

The UFC absolutely cannot afford to reward Conor McGregor for bad behavior

Even though he wasn't punished for his April incident, the UFC should not allow McGregor to compete for a world title. That is, if they care about the integrity of the organization.

UFC Calgary: Eddie Alvarez betting on himself by taking rematch vs. Dustin Poirier

Was Eddie Alvarez ducking fellow lightweight contender Dustin Poirier? The former lightweight champ tells Sporting News says he wasn't. He also offers an explanation why he didn't immediately jump on the fight.

Conor McGregor plea deal: What it means for former UFC champion

SN asked a criminal defense attorney the key questions surrounding Conor McGregor's plea agreement with prosecutors in Brooklyn stemming from his April attack on a bus at Barclays Center.

UFC Calgary: Dustin Poirier didn't think Eddie Alvarez would take rematch

Dustin Poirier wasn't too sure former lightweight champion Eddie Alvarez would fight him again after their controversial first bout.

UFC Calgary: Jeremy Stephens just wants to fight

Featherweight contender Jeremy Stephens wants to do just one thing this weekend: fight Jose Aldo as part of the UFC on Fox card.

UFC 228: Tyron Woodley vs. Darren Till welterweight title fight to headline Dallas card

Tyron Woodley's next title defense is scheduled for Sept. 8, but not against the opponent who was expected to face him.

Chael Sonnen hijacks interview to confront Fedor Emelianenko before Bellator 208

Chael Sonnen couldn't wait until Bellator 208 to get a piece of Fedor Emelianenko. "The American Gangster" crashed Sporting News' interview with "The Last Emperor" and assaulted him... with questions.

Fedor Emelianenko vs. Chael Sonnen to headline Bellator 208

The MMA legend returns to meet one of the most controversial names in the sport in the semifinals of the heavyweight grand prix.

Daniel Cormier blasts Alexander Gustafsson for pulling out of UFC 227; Gustafsson responds

Current light heavyweight and heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier puts former opponent Alexander Gustafsson on blast.

UFC Hamburg results: Anthony Smith destroys 'Shogun' Rua with first-round knockout

Anthony Smith scores an impressive knockout in the UFC Hamburg headliner and Corey Anderson notches the biggest win of his career in the co-main event.

Conor McGregor's attorney says 'no accuracy' in reports of plea deal being reached

The UFC star's legal team denies that an agreement has been reached in dolly incident prior to UFC 223.

UFC Hamburg: Anthony Smith regrets not moving up to light heavyweight sooner

UFC Hamburg headliner Anthony Smith has one regret leading into his headlining bout on Sunday vs. 'Shogun' Rua.

Former UFC champ Cain Velasquez training at WWE Performance Center; is Daniel Cormier next?

Will another UFC star make the transition to WWE?

UFC Hamburg: 'Shogun' Rua excited for Daniel Cormier fight opportunity he wasn't sure he'd get again

Former UFC light heavyweight champion Mauricio 'Shogun' Rua could fight for the light heavyweight title once again with a victory on Sunday.

Paul Daley is the last entrant in Bellator welterweight grand prix

The British welterweight slugger is the last entrant in the Bellator welterweight grand prix

ESPY Awards 2018: All award winners and nominees

The ESPYs, which stands for Excellence in Sports Yearly, honors the best of the sporting world. Here are the 2018 winners and nominees.

Just how serious is Bellator MMA's Michael ‘Venom’ Page about boxing? More serious than you think

If the Bellator star has it his way, he’ll be alternating between MMA and the sweet science regularly.

Streaming giant DAZN aims to fix 'broken' PPV system for U.S. fight fans

Media execs weigh in on DAZN's unique selling proposition as the live sports streaming service invades the U.S. market.

Michael Page's last five fights

Many have deemed Michael "Venom" Page the future of Bellator. We look at the last five bouts in the career of "MVP."

Rory MacDonald's last five fights

Let's take a peek at some of the recent fights of the reigning Bellator welterweight champion.

MMA schedule 2018: Bellator, UFC fight cards, dates, how to watch live

Here's the remaining 2018 MMA schedule for UFC, Bellator and other events with fight cards, dates, locations and how to watch live.

Gegard Mousasi's last five fights

Here's a look at what Gegard Mousasi's rise to become Bellator middleweight champion.

UFC Boise results: Junior dos Santos defeats Blagoy Ivanov; Sage Northcutt a winner at welterweight

Junior dos Santos makes a successful return to the Octagon; Sage Northcutt finally registers a win at a higher weight class.

Bellator 203: Patricio 'Pitbull' Freire looking for more respect from Bellator

Bellator featherweight champion Patricio "Pitbull" Freire defends his belt on Saturday, but he has some issues with how the promotion has handled him. He also had some unkind words for rival Michael Chandler.

UFC Boise: Chad Mendes actually enjoyed time away from MMA

Chad Mendes addresses his time away from the Octagon, getting back into the featherweight title picture and his failed drug test.

UFC Boise: After nearly dying, Blagoy Ivanov knew he'd fight again

Blagoy Ivanov went from his death bed to headlining a UFC event in his promotional debut.

UFC Boise: Junior dos Santos on time off, Daniel Cormier and potential Brock Lesnar fight

Former UFC heavyweight champion Junior dos Santos returns from a 14-month layoff Saturday at UFC Boise.

Brendan Schaub, Dana White exchange fiery insults on Israel Adesanya's Instagram page

Things got ugly in a hurry when UFC president Dana White and former UFC fighter Brendan Schaub engaged in a heated war of words on another fighter's Instagram page.

Cris Cyborg vs. Amanda Nunes super fight in the works for UFC 232, per report

Will the two best fighters in women's MMA finally square off?

Bellator 202: Featherweight champion Julia Budd feels Ronda Rousey fight was career-defining

Losing to Ronda Rousey was the best thing to happen to Bellator women's featherweight champion Julia Budd.

UFC 227: Brian Ortega wants title fight if Max Holloway sidelined for extended period

If featherweight champion Max Holloway is out for an extended period of time, Brian Ortega has a suggestion.

Ryan Bader vs. Matt Mitrione Bellator heavyweight grand prix semifinal finalized for October

An undefeated Bellator record will be tarnished as Mitrione and Bader will meet in October.

Conor McGregor to receive life-sized statue for upcoming 30th birthday

Conor McGregor will be getting a unique gift for his 30th birthday.

Former NFL player Greg Hardy to fight Tebaris Gordon on Aug. 7, per reports

The former NFL player is set to return to the cage after a brief layoff.

The latest on Brock Lesnar's WWE status after UFC 226 incident

Brock Lesnar's WWE future beyond 2018 remains up in the air, but expect him to make an appearance or two before now and the end of the year.

For the first time in a long time, the UFC doesn’t need Conor McGregor

The buzz of a future Daniel Cormier vs. Brock Lesnar fight has silenced the immediate need to bring Conor McGregor back to the UFC.

Daniel Cormier explains why he wants Brock Lesnar, not Jon Jones, in next fight

Why would Daniel Cormier give Brock Lesnar an opportunity to re-claim his heavyweight title, considering Lesnar's history of failed drug tests?

Up next for Daniel Cormier: Brock Lesnar, then retirement

After his next fight against Brock Lesnar, Daniel Cormier should take no more fights and ride off into the sunset.

Why Daniel Cormier vs. Brock Lesnar is the UFC's fight to make

One of the biggest attractions in UFC history returning to try and regain his title from one of the greatest fighters of all time? The story writes itself, and would shatter all PPV records for the UFC.

UFC 226: Daniel Cormier stops Stipe Miocic to become two-division champion; calls out Brock Lesnar

Daniel Cormier turned his attention to the MMA heavyweight and WWE superstar after making UFC history. Lesnar responded by entering the cage and shoving the new champion.

UFC 226: Derrick Lewis wins heavyweight snoozer over Francis Ngannou

Derrick Lewis and Francis Ngannou engaged in arguably the most disappointing fight in UFC heavyweight history.

UFC 226: Miocic vs. Cormier fight date, PPV price, how to watch and live stream

The most top-heavy card of the year is on its way, airing on July 7. Here's all you need to know.

'TUF 27' finale: Israel Adesanya dominates Brad Tavares; Michael Trizano, Brad Katona crowned champs

Israel Adesanya formally announced himself as a middleweight threat with a dominating performance. Brad Katona and Michael Trizano became victors to wrap up "The Ultimate Fighter 27."

UFC 226 fighters talk Max Holloway concussion and fighting with injuries

Anthony Pettis, Uriah Hall and the rest of the UFC 226 fighters talk about Max Holloway's concussion, how they deal with injuries and how the media may have played into all of this.

Daniel Cormier is the modern Joe Frazier

No matter what Daniel Cormier does for the rest of his career, he'll always live in the shadow of Jon Jones. Just like how Joe Frazier lived in Muhammad Ali's.

Uriah Hall explains how Ronda Rousey's advice changed how he deals with fan criticism

Tired of dealing with fan criticism, Uriah Hall explains how advice Ronda Rousey gave him several years ago has changed his perspective.

The lesson from Max Holloway's UFC 226 withdrawal: Health must come first

The UFC and the people representing the ailing featherweight champion did not serve him well; they waited too long to pull him from his scheduled Saturday title defense.

Jon Jones continues to cast a shadow over Daniel Cormier heading into UFC 226

Saturday could determine who is the best MMA fighter of all time, but some of the focus and attention that night will go to a man who hasn't fought in a year.

UFC 226: Daniel Cormier considers Stipe Miocic, not Jon Jones, biggest fight of career

Daniel Cormier has fought the best of the best in the Octagon, but his next fight is probably his biggest — at least, according to him.

Chuck Liddell, Tito Ortiz to fight for the third time

Get ready for Liddell vs. Ortiz III in December.

Rory MacDonald calls champion vs. champion fight with Gegard Mousasi 'dream come true'

Rory MacDonald preps for his fight with Gegard Mousasi (exclusively on DAZN) and reiterates that he's in the process of making his dreams come true.

Rampage Jackson on Wanderlei Silva: 'I love punching him in the face'

Quinton "Rampage" Jackson knows that fighting a fourth time vs. Wanderlei Silva is unheard of in the fight game, and he knows his next fight vs. Silva (exclusively on DAZN) may not be the last.

Bellator, DAZN sign nine-figure, multiyear distribution deal

Bellator and DAZN announced a new distribution deal that will feature seven exclusive stacked fight cards per year on DAZN and another 15 that are simulcast across Paramount Network and DAZN.

UFC 225: Whittaker vs. Romero 2 date, fight card, start time, how to watch

CM Punk returns, Robert Whittaker and Yoel Romero run it back and more in a top-to-bottom fun card.

UFC 225: Yoel Romero misses weight for main event title fight

Yoel Romero came in heavy at 185.2 pounds Friday — becoming the first fighter in UFC history to miss weight in multiple title fights.

UFC 225: Mike Jackson feels he's won the 'lottery' in getting to fight CM Punk

Knowing a long-awaited opportunity is nearly here, Mike Jackson feels like he's hit the jackpot.

UFC 225: CM Punk says first MMA win would be more meaningful than first WWE belt

CM Punk, who will return to the Octagon on Saturday. tells SN that doing something "on your own, so to speak" holds more meaning than having something possibly "gifted" or "handed" to him.

UFC 225: Middleweight champ Robert Whittaker admits he was 'very distraught' after UFC 221 pullout

UFC middleweight champ Robert Whittaker explains his emotions after being forced to pullout of UFC 221.

UFC 225: Inside fight week with Robert Whittaker's coach

It's not all chilling out until fight night.

Tai Tuivasa: Why I had to quit rugby league for fighting

UFC heavyweight Tai Tuivasa talks about why he quit rugby league for fighting ahead of his UFC 225 fight with Andrei Arlovski.

UFC 225: Tyson Pedro on Tai Tuivasa — 'I'm so proud of where he is now'

UFC light heavyweight Tyson Pedro has watched Tai Tuivasa mature into a family man and a focused fighter.

UFC Liverpool: Darren Till promises to keep coming back until 'people get f—ing tired of me'

The road to UFC Liverpool has been a winding one, but Darren Till has learned lessons along the path to success.

Tyson Pedro's tattoos reveal a sad history, brutal trainings ahead of his UFC Singapore fight vs. Ovince Saint Preux

"The language just dropped off over the generations. I'm trying to learn it again."

ESPN poised to take UFC TV package from Fox, SN sources say

On the heels of the news that Fox is acquiring WWE programming, ESPN is set to pay Fox big bucks for UFC events in 2019, according to Sporting News sources.

America's bet against sports gambling was always a big loser

SN's Mike DeCourcy explains why the federal ban on sports betting being ruled unconstitutional is a welcome end to what was a senseless prohibition in the U.S. for years.

UFC fighter says she's done but corner sends her back into ring

After taking a beating from Amanda Nunes at UFC 224, Raquel Pennington told her corner she was done. Her coaches convinced her to go back out for the fifth and final round.

UFC 224: 5 takeaways from Saturday’s thrilling event in Rio de Janeiro

Don't fight Lyoto Machida in your walk-away bout. Mackenzie Dern has potential, but she can't afford to blow this opportunity. Raquel Pennington's corner let her down.

UFC 224 results: Amanda Nunes stops Raquel Pennington to retain title

UFC women's bantamweight champion Amanda Nunes walks out of her home country with the belt after a stoppage victory over Raquel Pennington. SN had full coverage of UFC 224.

UFC 224: Kelvin Gastelum knows he had to mature to get to where he is now

Kelvin Gastelum had to make major changes both inside of the Octagon and outside of it to be where he is today.

UFC 224 predictions: Can Raquel Pennington dethrone Amanda Nunes?

Can Raquel Pennington rebound from a horrific, nearly career-ending injury and shock the world vs. Amanda Nunes?

UFC 224: Raquel Pennington feared horrific accident would end her career

Raquel Pennington feared the worst in October, as a freak accident nearly left her without a career — or a leg.

Bellator 198, Fedor vs. Mir results: Fedor Emelianenko stops Frank Mir in first round

Fedor Emelianenko has a response to those who believe he should hang up the gloves: He finishes Frank Mir in less than a minute.

Bellator 198: Fedor Emelianenko vs. Frank Mir is an iconic fight a long time in the making

Two of the greatest heavyweights of all time finally meet in the ring, and while overdue, it still signals the

UFC Atlantic City: Takeaways from Saturday night on the Jersey Shore

Kevin Lee is the real deal, Brian Ortega looks even better — without fighting — and other takeaways from Saturday night's action.

UFC on FOX 29: Arjan Bhullar aiming to be the role model he never saw on TV

Arjan Bhullar hopes to continue his momentum into another win on Saturday, but he aspires to do more than just fight inside the Octagon.

UFC on FOX 29: What’s at stake this weekend in Arizona?

Can Dustin Poirier avoid relegation? Can Michele Waterson meet the hype?

UFC 223: 5 takeaways from Saturday night's outstanding event in Brooklyn

Here’s a look at the biggest talking points and takeaways coming out of UFC 223.

UFC 223 results: Khabib Nurmagomedov mauls Al Iaquinta to become undisputed lightweight champion

Follow us all day long with our coverage of UFC 223 featuring Nurmagomedov vs. Iaquinta and Namajunas vs. Jedrzejczyk.

UFC 223: Al Iaquinta knows his worth, future and standing with the UFC

Al Iaquinta played a little bit of hardball with the UFC, and he's prepared to let the fight game go should things not break his way.

UFC 223: Nurmagomedov vs. Iaquinta, date, fight card, start time, how to watch

Khabib Nurmagomedov and Max Holloway come together for a last-minute throwdown on Saturday, April 7.

UFC 223 predictions: Can Al Iaquinta shock the world vs. Khabib Nurmagomedov?

SN MMA breaks down the co-main event between Max Holloway and Khabib Nurmagomedov, ​Rose Namajunas and Joanna Jedrzejczyk.

UFC 223: Rose Namajunas focused on remaining true to herself ahead of title rematch

In an age when many fighters want to do their best Conor McGregor impressions in order to garner attention and try to build their names, Namajunas is only interested in being herself.

UFC 223: Two titles, divisional positioning on the line in Brooklyn

Veterans fighting for positional standings, a future UFC superfight on the line a few chances for vengeance highlight what's at stake at Saturday's UFC 223.

Brock Lesnar is set to return to UFC, says Dana White

The WWE wrestler and former MMA fighter is set to return to UFC, says president Dana White.

SN exclusive: Floyd Mayweather more likely to enter Octagon than ring, Showtime Sports boss says

Stephen Espinoza gave a surprising answer when asked if the boxing great would return to a ring or make his debut in the Octagon for his next fight.

UFC 223: Lightweight waters more muddy than ever following Tony Ferguson injury

While Max Holloway stepping in is a positive for the UFC, a potential victory could spell more confusion within the lightweight division.

UFC 223's Joanna Jedrzejczyk: 'I will get what belongs to me'

Joanna Jedrzejczyk isn't going to make any excuses heading into Saturday's UFC 223 event, and she's ready to reclaim what she feels belongs to her.

Leonard Ellerbe not getting involved in Floyd Mayweather's decision to move to the UFC

Floyd Mayweather's potential move to the UFC is entirely up to him, says the boxer's long-time promoter.

UFC London: Five takeaways from Saturday’s entertaining event

You don’t need big names to have great fights, as UFC Fight Night 127 proved on Saturday night.

UFC London: What’s at stake for Werdum, Volkov and others on Saturday?

The main and co-main event from The O2 Arena in London are worth watching, but the whole card has something at stake.

UFC London: Hakeem Dawodu sees debut as first step to featherweight domination

While his self-confidence is sure to rub some people the wrong way, Hakeem Dawodu’s track record backs up his unwavering belief in himself.

UFC London: Fresh names in thin divisions have a chance to emerge

In the heavyweight and light heavyweight divisions, Fight Night 127 could offer some long-term solutions to a long-time issue.

UFC 222: 5 takeaways from Cyborg vs. Kunitskaya on Saturday night

The UFC on Saturday night was in Las Vegas with a deep lineup from top to bottom at UFC 222. Here’s a look at five of the biggest takeaways.

UFC 222: Cyborg vs. Kunitskaya fight date, card, start time, preview

The best female fighter in MMA history returns on Saturday when Cris Cyborg defends her featherweight title against Yana Kunitskaya in the main event of UFC 222.

UFC 222: What’s at stake on pay-per-view this weekend?

On a card of intriguing fights, here's what could be on the line in each bout at UFC 222.

UFC 222 predictions: Expert fight picks for Cyborg vs. Kunitskaya, undercard

Will Cris Cyborg continue her reign of dominance, or does Yana Kunitskaya have enough to pull off the upset of a lifetime?

UFC 222: Yana Kunitskaya's message to doubters: 'I don't care what people think'

The up-and-coming UFC women's fighter doesn't want to hear anything from detractors heading into her UFC 222 bout vs. Cris Cyborg.

UFC 222: Brian Ortega admits even he's surprised by his meteoric rise

The UFC featherweight contender is beyond satisfied with the way things have broken his way over the last eight months, taking a career low and turning it the biggest fight of his life.

UFC 222: Where does Frankie Edgar land in the list of all-time UFC greats?

It's time to have that talk: the 36-year-old former champion has left it all in the Octagon and definitely deserves credit as an all-time great fighter.

UFC 222: Patience is key with top prospect Mackenzie Dern

As seen with prior stars in Dern's position, all she needs is the time to develop, and it will pay off in the end.

UFC on FOX: Five takeaways from Saturday’s fights in Orlando

Was a star born on Saturday night in Orlando?

UFC on FOX: What’s at stake in Orlando?

Previewing the fights and repercussions of Saturday's UFC Fight Night card.

UFC on FOX: Jeremy Stephens' evolution to credit for current hot streak

Heading into his bout with Josh Emmett on Saturday, Jeremy Stephens has never looked better.

Derrick Lewis believes he's no hero following Hurricane Harvey efforts

Lewis is co-main eventing this Sunday's UFC Fight Night vs. Marcin Tybura and reflected on Hurricane Harvey ravaging his hometown of Houston.

UFC Austin: What's at stake on the main card?

Not every fight is going to have divisional or career ramifications, but is something to keep an eye on on most fights.

UFC Austin: Could Sunday be Donald 'Cowboy' Cerrone’s last ride?

Donald Cerrone is coming off three straight losses, but could a fourth straight be the end of "Cowboy" in the UFC?

UFC Austin: Out of the spotlight, Sage Northcutt finally getting a chance to develop

The UFC does a poor job of recognizing and promoting its young talent, so they're doing right by Northcutt to give him a chance to develop out of the spotlight.

UFC 221 takeaways: Romero ices Rockhold, youngsters shine in Perth

The ageless Yoel Romero stopped Luke Rockhold, Curtis Blaydes is a force to be reckoned with and other things we learned from a big night in Australia.

UFC 221 results: Yoel Romero knocks out Luke Rockhold — doesn't win title

With Yoel Romero failing to make weight, can Luke Rockhold emerge from UFC 221 the interim middleweight champion?

UFC 221: Romero vs. Rockhold fight date, card, start time, preview

Can Luke Rockhold once again become the UFC middleweight champion as the UFC makes its debut in Perth, Australia?

UFC 221 predictions: Expert fight picks for Rockhold vs. Romero, undercard

Who leaves Perth as the interim UFC middleweight champion? The Sporting News MMA team gives its pick.

Cris Cyborg saves the day, will headline UFC 222 vs. Yana Kunitskaya

UFC 222 was on the verge of failing apart, until Cris Cyborg stepped in to fight.

Luke Rockhold: UFC 221 is an event of the highest magnitude

Rockhold says he knows exactly how he can beat former Olympic wrestler Romero.

Eryk Anders' impressive rookie season in UFC continues with main event assignment

If things continue working through this weekend, Anders could establish himself as a new name to watch in the unsettled and always shifting middleweight division.

UFC Belem: Valentina Shevchenko's flyweight debut a low-risk, high-reward opportunity

On Saturday, Valentina Shevchenko has an opportunity to prove she has star potential, though if she loses, it could throw many things awry.

UFC on FOX: Mirsad Bektic talks changing camps, overcoming first professional loss

Mirsad Bektic's loss to Danny Elkins sent him on a course that helped reinvigorate, reinvent him as a fighter.

Snoop Dogg provides commentary in 'EA Sports UFC 3'

The action from KO Mode in "EA Sports UFC 3" is narrated by rapper Snoop Dogg.

Stipe Miocic vs. Brock Lesnar is the fight that the UFC needs to happen

With a question of who's next for Stipe Miocic after UFC 220,

Demetrious Johnson is highest-rated fighter on 'EA Sports UFC 3' roster

The full roster of more than 250 fighters for the upcoming "EA Sports UFC 3" video game and their respective ratings have been revealed.

UFC 220 results: Stipe Miocic schools Francis Ngannou, sets title defense record

The first UFC PPV of 2018 takes place tonight from the TD Garden in Boston. The card is headlined by two title fights highlighted by Stipe Miocic defending the heavyweight championship against the hard-hitting Francis Ngannou.

UFC 220 Miocic vs. Ngannou: Five takeaways from 2018's first pay-per-view

Daniel Cormier cements his status as an all-time great. Stipe Miocic does his job. Featherweights, lighter weight classes, lead the way in 2018.

UFC 220 predictions: Who emerges from Miocic vs. Ngannou, Cormier vs. Oezdemir?

Can Francis Ngannou and Volkan Oezdemir dethrone Stipe Miocic and Daniel Cormier respectively become UFC champions?

UFC 220: Miocic vs. Ngannou fight date, PPV price, how to watch and live stream

The first UFC pay-per-view of 2018 is headlined by two title fights.

UFC 220: Daniel Cormier fighting for himself, not the fans, in Oezdemir fight

In an interview with Sporting News, "DC" talks his upcoming bout vs. Volkan Oezdemir, knowing the end of his career could be coming and why he's not worried about the fans.

UFC 220: Volkan Oezdemir aims to cap rookie year with light heavyweight title victory

Light heavyweight contender Volkan Oezdemir heads into his fight with Daniel Cormier as something of an unknown quantity — but don't sleep on him.

UFC 220: Francis Ngannou ready to uppercut, shatter window of opportunity

In an interview with Sporting News, the UFC's rising heavyweight star says he's ready to make a lifelong dream come true in his showdown with Stipe Miocic at UFC 220.

UFC 220: Stipe Miocic vs. Francis Ngannou will be the pinnacle of the UFC's 2018

With the futures of Conor McGregor, Jon Jones and Ronda Rousey in question, there will be no bigger fight in 2018 — at this point — than Stipe vs. Ngannou

Robert Whittaker pulls out of UFC 221; Yoel Romero replaces him

UFC 221 loses its headliner to injury.

Max Holloway, UFC featherweight division could usher in golden era in 2018

Right off the bat in 2018, MMA fans will see why the UFC featherweight division is gearing up for a massive year.

UFC 219 Cyborg vs. Holm results: Cris Cyborg pummels Holly Holm to retain title

Cris Cyborg left no doubt as the best female fighter in the UFC today after her win over Holly Holm.

UFC 219 Cyborg vs. Holm: Five things we learned from 2017's final show

Could UFC's first-ever female superfight take place in 2018? Who is stopping Khabib Nurmagomedov?