This week, heavyweight champion Jon Jones declared his intention to fight again, assuring fans that his career narrative is “still being written.” This statement comes despite Jones not having a fight booked since his victory over Stipe Miocic last November, and his apparent avoidance of interim champion Tom Aspinall. The lack of movement towards a fight with Aspinall, widely considered the most significant potential bout in MMA, has led to increasing frustration and skepticism among fans who feel Jones may be sidestepping the challenge.
Highly-touted prospect Bo Nickal faced a significant test this past week against veteran Reinier de Ridder, a former two-division ONE champion with significantly more experience. De Ridder handed Nickal his first professional defeat, demonstrating superior grappling and finishing the fight with strikes. This unexpected outcome for the three-time NCAA wrestling champion generated considerable discussion within the MMA community.
The dramatic weight fluctuations between fights for lightweight contender Paddy Pimblett continue to be a subject of debate among fans. Many question how he consistently manages these significant gains and subsequent cuts without facing consequences or criticism from the sport`s authorities.
Buzz is building around Dwayne Johnson`s upcoming film *The Smashing Machine*, a biopic focusing on the life of former MMA fighter Mark Kerr, directed by Benny Safdie. While anticipation grows, there is also discussion regarding Johnson`s potential performance in the role and whether the film will garner awards consideration.
The trend of individuals, often without extensive professional fighting backgrounds, stepping into the cage to face seasoned MMA fighters continues to be a perplexing phenomenon. Many observers, like the author and numerous fans, find these matchups strange and question the motivation behind them.
