The hottest MMA Substack posts right now

The writer is a fan of combat sports like UFC and admires Jon Jones.
The writer reflects on the intensity and skill of Jon Jones as a fighter.
The writer considers the complexities of aging and talent in the world of combat sports.

The UFC has developed a strong relationship with Donald Trump, making appearances at events during key moments in his political career. This connection shows how sports can intertwine with politics.
China has been a growing market for the UFC, with events and training programs aimed at building local talent and expanding their fan base. The UFC is interested in maintaining good relations with China, especially as they return to hosting events there.
The idea of using sports, like MMA, to improve US-China relations is like the historical 'ping pong diplomacy.' It suggests that unexpected connections can help bridge gaps between countries, even in tense times.

UFC promotes authenticity, honesty, and masculinity in a world of corporate sports
MMA presents a platform for fighters to be themselves and express individuality
The rise of UFC's branding changes show a shift towards corporate influence and 'wokeness'

Hannah Cifers faced a tough year in MMA, being finished four times in one calendar year.
Her losses in the UFC women's strawweight division were not just frequent but also by being finished every time.
The real work was in how Cifers faced defeat within a short period, making an impact in her professional career.

UFC signed a huge $7.7 billion deal with Paramount for media rights over seven years. This means fans will get to watch all UFC events just by subscribing to Paramount+.
The deal is significant because it eliminates the expensive pay-per-view model. Instead of paying $80 for each event, fans will only need the monthly fee for Paramount+ to access every fight.
This new partnership is expected to change how UFC operates financially and potentially affect what fighters get paid. It's a big shift in the sports broadcasting landscape.

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In UFC fights, bigger fighters don't always have an advantage over smaller opponents.
Reach and mass play a role in a fighter's advantage, but smaller fighters can excel in explosive strength and agility.
Training and skill level can offset the benefits of size differences in fights, making matchups more balanced.

Chatri Sityodtong is the founder of ONE Championship and has a deep passion for martial arts.
ONE Championship has faced challenges unique to combat sports, like sporadic events and difficulties in getting sponsorships.
The growth of ONE Championship has been fueled by its focus on social media, live streaming, and strategic partnerships.