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The Roundup: biggest MMA & UFC stories, Jul 21

This week in MMA, we've got title shot calls, fighter drama, event scheduling shifts, and a K-1 champ eyeing the cage.

Nikolakakos Eyes ONE Atomweight Gold [1]

Anastasia Nikolakakos is making her intentions clear in ONE Championship. After staying unbeaten at ONE Fight Night 45, she secured a split decision victory over Jihin Radzuan [1]. Following the win, Nikolakakos wasted no time in calling for a shot at the atomweight title [1].

Noche UFC Shifts Schedule to Avoid Boxing Conflict [6]

This year’s Noche UFC event will not go head-to-head with the Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn boxing superfight on Mexican Independence Day weekend [6]. The UFC officially announced that Noche UFC will start extra early to avoid conflicting with the Zuffa Boxing event [6].

Topuria Comparisons to McGregor Draw Manager’s Response [5]

The frequent comparisons between Ilia Topuria and Conor McGregor are back in the spotlight, this time with some direct advice [5]. Ali Abdelaziz, manager of Justin Gaethje, responded to these comparisons [5]. Gaethje was the fighter who ended Topuria’s undefeated streak at UFC Casa Branca in June [5].

Paddy Pimblett Accused of Lying Over Topuria Item [4]

Paddy Pimblett is facing accusations of lying from a fan [4]. This fan claims to have purchased a $14,000 Ilia Topuria collector’s item [4]. The fan has called out Pimblett for lying [4]. This story was also covered as “Baddy Buys Topuria Quit Stool” [18].

Islam Makhachev Praised by Cain Velasquez, Garry Eyes Legacy [13]

UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev received praise from MMA legend Cain Velasquez, his longtime teammate at American Kickboxing Academy [13]. Makhachev is set to return to the Octagon at UFC 330 on August 15, where he will defend his title against top contender Ian Machado Garry [13]. This will be Makhachev’s first title defense since winning the welterweight title last year from Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 [13]. Ian Garry believes that defeating Makhachev at UFC 330 would make his greatness “undeniable” [17].

Michael Page Seeks New UFC Contract [14]

UFC welterweight and middleweight fighter Michael Page is looking for a new contract [14]. He has only one fight remaining on his current deal [14]. Page joined the UFC in 2024 after spending most of his MMA career in Bellator MMA [14].

K-1 Cruiserweight Champion Transitions to MMA [12]

One of kickboxing’s rising talents, the K-1 cruiserweight champion, has announced a transition to MMA [12]. This fighter appears ready to test himself in a new arena [12].

Sources


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