PFL CEO Explains Rankings After Francis Ngannou Omission

5 months ago

PFL CEO Explains Rankings After Francis Ngannou Omission

John Martin addressed backlash after new rankings excluded the former UFC heavyweight champion. “These rankings are a starting point… not a final verdict,” he claimed. Martin stressed activity will reshape lists over three to four months as fighters compete. Lightweight champ Usman Nurmagomedov debuted P4P No. 1, while Ngannou remained absent from heavyweight and pound-for-pound standings following the rollout.

By Afnan Chougle

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5 months ago

Justin Gaethje's Manager Calls Him UFC’s Safest Paramount+ Headliner

Ali Abdelaziz framed Gaethje as the Paramount+ era’s most dependable fighter after his fight against Paddy Pimblett at UFC 324 was a massive success. “Justin Gaethje is a trademark. You can trust him,” Ali said, pitching him as the safest main-event bet who delivers entertainment and shows up. Abdelaziz added, “Nobody in UFC deserves to make more money than Gaethje.”

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5 months ago

Jorge Masvidal Calls Petr Yan vs. Umar Nurmagomedov Pay-Per-View Gold

The ex-welterweight raved about Umar’s rise at bantamweight. “Umar is one of the best guys in the world… could probably be champion,” he said, urging a quick return. He said a Yan (bantamweight champion) matchup sells itself: “Yan and him is gonna be pay-per-view… insane.” #2-ranked Umar has cemented his name in the title contention after back-to-back two wins.

By Afnan Chougle

5 months ago

Ali Abdelaziz Says New Finish Bonuses Finally Help UFC’s Lowest-Paid Fighters

Abdelaziz, manager to many UFC fighters, praised UFC’s new $25K finish bonus as a better decision for undercard fighters than stars. “Great move for guys who make ($10K and $12K),” Ali said, arguing one finish can change a career trajectory. Still, he warned, expectations climb fast: “If Dana says $300,000, people want $400,000.” The policy doubles previous win-bonus payouts ($10k).

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5 months ago

Khabib's Manager Criticizes PPV Model, Says Only Conor McGregor Was Able To Sell It

Ali Abdelaziz argued PPV rarely paid most fighters, praising guaranteed purses in the new Paramount era. “I always wanted guaranteed money. I'm glad PPV went away,” he said, noting Khabib had guaranteed money. He claimed, “PPV was only one guy… Conor McGregor.” Abdelaziz added that it's “much better you get all your money upfront,” calling PPV “too complicated” for everyone.

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5 months ago

Josh Hokit Shrugs Off Dana White Criticism After UFC 324 Bonus

The (8-0) UFC heavyweight brushed off UFC CEO’s disapproval of his post-fight speech, calling fellow heavyweight Waldo Cortes-Acosta a "deadbeat father." “He didn’t hate it that much. He still gave me the $100,000,” Hokit said. The 28-year-old vowed to keep talking big, chasing bonuses, “a lake house and a boat,” and fighting until around 40 as he stacks wins.

By Afnan Chougle

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