The ‘Magnum’ Opus: Getting to Know Zhang Weili
Zhang Weili, nicknamed “Magnum,” is a fighting force of nature whose journey from working multiple odd jobs to becoming the two-time UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion is an inspiring testament to the power of relentless effort and an unshakeable spirit. Born on September 30, 1990, in Handan, Hebei, China, Zhang’s humble beginnings and fierce dedication have made her a national hero and a global icon of female strength. Her motto, inspired by Bruce Lee, is to “be water”, to be flexible, adapt to any situation, and find the path around or through any obstacle.
A Childhood Forged by Kung Fu and Sanda
Zhang’s interest in martial arts was sparked by Kung Fu films, leading her to begin training in Shaolin Kung Fu at just six years old. At age twelve, her parents sent her to a specialized martial arts school where she focused on Sanda (Chinese kickboxing) and Shuai Jiao (Chinese wrestling). She quickly excelled, winning multiple Sanda championships in her home province. However, a persistent back injury forced her to step away from the sport prematurely. This setback led to a period of uncertainty, during which she moved to Beijing and held various jobs, including cashier, security guard, and hotel desk clerk, until she found work as a fitness instructor, a job that granted her crucial access to gym equipment to train after hours.
The First Star: China’s Pioneer Champion
Zhang Weili turned professional in MMA in 2013 and, after losing her debut fight, went on a remarkable run of 16 consecutive wins on the regional circuit, capturing the Kunlun Fight Strawweight Championship along the way. She entered the UFC in 2018 with an explosive style that blended her Sanda striking with an increasingly potent grappling game.
Her career pinnacle came in August 2019 when she defeated Jéssica Andrade in just 42 seconds to become the first-ever Chinese and East Asian UFC Champion. She then cemented her legacy by participating in what many consider the greatest women’s fight in MMA history against Joanna Jędrzejczyk, a brutal five-round war she won by split decision. After losing and then regaining her title from Carla Esparza, securing a submission win and her second championship, Zhang has successfully defended the belt three times, establishing her dominance as the greatest Strawweight the promotion has seen. Her overall professional record stands at 26 wins and 3 losses (26-3-0), boasting 11 knockouts and 8 submissions.
The Ultimate Challenge: A Quest for Double Gold
Zhang Weili, having cemented her legacy at 115 pounds, has vacated her Strawweight title to pursue a monumental challenge: becoming a two-division UFC Champion. This daring move is driven by her philosophy of continually testing her own limits and finding inner peace through growth.
She is set for the fight of her life in the co-main event of UFC 322 against the former two-time Flyweight Champion Valentina Shevchenko. The title bout will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This fight pits the two top-ranked female fighters on the planet against each other. For Zhang, a victory over a legend like Shevchenko would not only make her the first Asian woman to hold UFC titles in two divisions but would also fulfill her ambition of proving that human potential is truly limitless.
Read more | UFC 322 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
The Bullet’s Philosophy: Getting to Know Valentina Shevchenko
Valentina Anatolyevna Shevchenko, known worldwide as “The Bullet,” is a fighter whose biography is less a sequence of events and more a masterclass in global martial arts dedication. Born on March 7, 1988, in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Shevchenko’s life was fundamentally shaped by the culture of combat. Her mother, Elena Shevchenko, was the president of the country’s national Muay Thai association, ensuring that martial arts was a family endeavor. Valentina began Taekwondo at the tender age of five, soon followed by Muay Thai kickboxing at age twelve, earning her famous moniker “Bullet” from her coach Pavel Fedotov for her speed and aggressive style.
A Global Canvas of Combat
What sets Shevchenko apart is the unparalleled depth of her striking background. She is not just an MMA fighter; she is a decorated champion across multiple disciplines. Her record boasts 17 World Championship Titles in Muay Thai and K-1, having competed professionally in over 60 kickboxing bouts. This global pursuit of martial excellence took her across continents, including extensive training in Thailand and a pivotal, life-changing move to Peru with her coach and sister, Antonina, in 2007. She learned to speak fluent Spanish and gained Peruvian citizenship, embracing a new home while relentlessly refining her craft. Shevchenko’s philosophy, often expressed, is that martial arts is not a job but a way of life, a philosophy she brings into every performance with surgical precision.
The Queen of Flyweight: Surgical Dominance
Shevchenko’s professional MMA record stands at an outstanding 25 wins, 4 losses, and 1 draw (25-4-1). Her UFC career began at the Bantamweight division (135 lbs), where she faced the physically larger Julianna Peña and Holly Holm, and fought to two incredibly close, competitive bouts against the legendary Amanda Nunes.
When the Women’s Flyweight division (125 lbs) was created, Shevchenko immediately found her natural home. She quickly became the division’s inaugural long-reigning champion, racking up a UFC women’s record of eight title defenses. Her dominance was characterized by a rare blend of southpaw striking precision, powerful counter-attacks, and highly effective wrestling, which resulted in a slew of UFC records including the most wins and title fight wins in the division’s history. Though she temporarily lost the title to Alexa Grasso in 2023, she fiercely reclaimed it in their trilogy bout, once again proving her ability to adapt and conquer.
The Future: An Iconic Title Clash
Now, as the two-time and current UFC Women’s Flyweight Champion, Valentina Shevchenko is set to enter one of the biggest women’s fights in MMA history. She will defend her title in the co-main event of UFC 322 against the former two-time Strawweight Champion, Zhang Weili, who is moving up in weight seeking to become a two-division champion.
The highly anticipated title fight will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. This fight is a true battle between two of the best pound-for-pound female fighters on the planet. For “The Bullet,” defeating a champion of Weili’s caliber would not only add another prestigious name to her record but would also emphatically solidify her legacy as the greatest female fighter to ever step into the Octagon.
Read more | UFC 322 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
Get to Know UFC Fighter Islam Makhachev: The Heart of the Mountain
In the world of mixed martial arts, few figures possess the quiet, formidable aura of Islam Makhachev. More than just a dominant fighter, the former UFC Lightweight Champion represents a legacy, a culture, and a philosophy forged in the challenging terrains of his homeland. He is often seen as the spiritual and tactical successor to his mentor, the legendary Khabib Nurmagomedov, yet Makhachev is a champion who has carved a profoundly impressive and unique path of his own, defined by unmatched skill and unwavering dedication.
Forged in the Caucasus: A Dagestani Heritage
Islam Ramazanovich Makhachev was born on October 27, 1991, in the capital city of Makhachkala, but it was the remote village of Burshi in the Republic of Dagestan, Russia, that shaped the man he is today. As an ethnic Lak, his early life was rooted in a culture where resilience and hard physical labor were simply a way of existence. His father, a driver and tomato farmer, and his mother, who ran a small cafe, instilled in him the value of consistent, demanding work. The local culture, where informal street fights were common, fostered a tough, competitive spirit from a young age.
Training was not a hobby but a fundamental element of life. Makhachev first began with Taekwondo at seven, then switched to Sanda and freestyle wrestling. The rugged Dagestani environment provided a natural, grueling training ground, with routines involving morning runs up mountains and lifting stones, a practice that infused a granite-like strength into his conditioning. This harsh, demanding upbringing laid the spiritual and physical foundation for his future dominance in the cage.
The Brother’s Keeper: A Legacy of Mentorship
Makhachev’s career and personal life are inextricably linked to the Nurmagomedov family. His journey into mixed martial arts began in earnest under the tutelage of the late Abdulmanap Nurmagomedov, Khabib’s father. Training alongside Khabib from a young age, the two developed a bond that transcends partnership, becoming like brothers. This relationship became a cornerstone of his fighting philosophy.
Even after Khabib retired, he stepped into the role of head coach and mentor, fulfilling a promise to his late father, who famously stated that when Khabib left, Islam would arrive. The trust between the two is absolute; Makhachev once stated that if Khabib told him to stop fighting tomorrow, he would listen. It is this shared belief system, centered on discipline, faith, and the pursuit of greatness through self-sacrifice, that fuels the training camps and championship success of the entire team.
The Sambo Blueprint: Technical Perfection
What Islam Makhachev stands for in the cage is technical mastery and suffocating control. His style is built on the foundation of Combat Sambo, where he is a World Champion and a two-time Russian National Champion, complemented by a Black Belt in Judo. He embodies the pinnacle of the Dagestani grappling style, an relentless, pressure-based attack designed to exhaust an opponent and leave them nowhere to breathe.
Makhachev’s approach is methodical and devastatingly effective. His self-professed strategy is simple: “I always have the same plan: takedown, make them tired, and finish him there.” His ability to seamlessly chain wrestling and submissions has allowed him to defeat multiple high-level Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belts. He views a true champion as one who is ready to defend his title against any challenge, anytime, focusing on adding new, challenging names to his legacy rather than dwelling on the past.
The Path Ahead: A Quest for Double Gold
With an incredible winning streak and a legacy already secured in the Lightweight division, Islam Makhachev is now looking to carve a new, historic chapter in his career. His dream, openly stated, is to become a two-division UFC Champion.
This quest will reach a fever pitch with his next major bout: a main event clash against the Welterweight champion, Jack Della Maddalena. This highly anticipated champion-versus-champion bout is scheduled to headline UFC 322 in November 2025 at Madison Square Garden. This move to welterweight is the ultimate challenge for Makhachev, representing his ambition to be known in history as a “double champ” and further solidify his place as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world. For the Dagestani champion, the journey is not about fame or fortune alone, but about upholding the tradition of excellence and dedication passed down from the mountains to the ultimate fighting stage.
Read more | UFC 322 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
The Italian-Aussie Dynamo: The Rise of Jack Della Maddalena
Giacomo “Jack” Della Maddalena is not just a rising star in the UFC; he is the reigning UFC Welterweight Champion and a fighting prodigy whose success is rooted in the rich grit of his heritage and his unwavering self-belief. Born on September 10, 1996, in Perth, Western Australia, JDM grew up influenced by his family’s Italian (Sardinian) roots, which instilled in him the famous Mediterranean toughness and determination.
From the Rugby Pitch to the Ring
Jack’s athletic life began not in a cage, but on a field. He was a dedicated rugby player from the age of eight through high school, representing his school and thriving in the sport’s physical chaos. This passion for contact was channeled further by his older brother, Josh. The two would engage in intense, full-contact “backyard brawls,” which Jack now credits for forging his durability and competitive fire.
At 14, he followed his brother into a boxing gym to improve his rugby fitness, but quickly fell in love with the striking arts. By age 16, he transitioned into full-time MMA training. This early dedication paid off, overcoming the initial professional setback of losing his first two career fights to go on a monumental, unbeaten 18-fight winning streak, showcasing the mental fortitude that would define his career. His record now stands at 18 wins and 2 losses (18-2-0), featuring 12 knockouts and two submissions.
The Precision of a Champion Striker
Fighting out of Scrappy MMA in Perth, JDM quickly became known for his incredibly sharp, precise boxing, a style that has been described as lethal. His striking accuracy and ability to put opponents away with clean, powerful combinations earned him four Performance of the Night bonuses and two Fight of the Night bonuses inside the Octagon. He successfully climbed the Welterweight ranks by dispatching tough veterans like Gilbert Burns (via TKO) and Kevin Holland (via Split Decision).
The capstone of his career thus far came in May 2025 at UFC 315, where he defeated former title challenger Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision to capture the UFC Welterweight Championship. Despite his striking dominance, his game is rounded out by a Black Belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, adding a layer of threat that makes him a terrifying puzzle for any challenger. He is a fighter who takes calculated risks, showing confidence and composure regardless of the moment’s magnitude.
The Ultimate Test: Defending the Welterweight Throne
The future is now for Jack Della Maddalena. He is set to make his first defense of the Welterweight title in what is arguably the most highly anticipated matchup of the year. He will headline UFC 322 against former two-time Lightweight Champion and pound-for-pound great Islam Makhachev.
The Welterweight Championship bout will take place on Saturday, November 15, 2025, at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York City. This is a classic striker-versus-grappler contest, with Makhachev moving up a division to challenge JDM’s reign. With his team training with wrestling experts like Alexander Volkanovski, JDM is fully preparing to neutralize Makhachev’s grappling and impose his striking power. For the young champion, a successful title defense against an elite name like Makhachev would cement his status not just as the best Welterweight in the world, but as a global superstar in the making.
Read more | UFC 322 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
The Second Act: Joseph “Bopo” Morales’ Journey to Redemption
The story of Joseph Morales is a compelling narrative about seizing a second chance and proving that belief in oneself can overcome any setback. Born on August 22, 1994, in Clovis, California, Morales represents the high-level talent cultivated at the legendary Team Alpha Male gym in Sacramento. Known by the nickname “Bopo,” a family moniker, his career is characterized by an exceptional foundation in grappling and a tireless work ethic, demonstrating what it means to dedicate one’s life to the pursuit of championship status.
Built on the Ground: The Submission Artist
Morales began his professional MMA journey in 2014, quickly making a name for himself in regional circuits like Global Knockout, where he secured the Flyweight Championship. His impressive professional record of 14 wins and 2 losses (14-2-0) highlights his dominance, especially on the mat. With seven professional submission victories, including three rear-naked chokes and three triangle chokes, Morales established himself as a certified submission artist in the Flyweight division. He earned his first UFC contract in 2017 and made an immediate splash by winning his debut via a first-round rear-naked choke, earning a Performance of the Night bonus. This early success positioned him as a top prospect.
The Return: The Ultimate Fighter Triumph
Morales’s initial UFC run ended after two tough losses, leading to a period of doubt and a hiatus from the promotion. However, this was not the end of his story; it was merely an intermission. Recognizing the value of a second chance, he successfully returned to competition in the regional scene and later entered the 33rd season of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF). Spurred by being overlooked in the initial fighter draft, Morales used the underdog status as motivation. He navigated the tournament with skill and focus, defeating two opponents before securing his place in the final. In a high-stakes final at UFC 319 in August 2025, Morales delivered a statement win, submitting Alibi Idiris with a second-round triangle choke to become the TUF 33 Flyweight Tournament Winner and reclaiming his spot on the UFC roster. This victory validated his years of dedication and proved his commitment to the highest standard of the sport.
The Future: The Climb Begins in the Co-Main Event
Joseph Morales is wasting no time making the most of his hard-earned return. He is immediately scheduled for a high-profile matchup against veteran Matt “Danger” Schnell. This pivotal Flyweight clash will serve as the co-main event for UFC Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. This fight is precisely the kind of test Morales needs: a chance to prove that the lessons learned from his first UFC stint have made him a complete, world-class fighter. A dominant performance over a tough, ranked veteran like Schnell would be the launching pad for Morales’s serious ascent into the official Flyweight rankings and toward his ultimate goal of becoming a UFC champion.
Read more | UFC Fight Night 264 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
The Undeniable “Danger”: The Grit and Heart of Matt Schnell
Matthew Christopher Schnell, better known by his fitting moniker “Danger,” is a true veteran of the brutal flyweight division and a testament to the idea that perseverance and a refusal to quit define a career. Born on January 15, 1990, in Amory, Mississippi, Schnell’s journey began far from the bright lights of Las Vegas. He maximized his talent in regional combat circuits, achieving the distinction of being a Louisiana Golden Gloves champion in boxing and, later, the Legacy FC Flyweight Champion, establishing a reputation as an all-action fighter who is never in a dull bout.
The Student of the Game and the Art of the Finish
Despite his boxing foundation and a black belt in Karate, Matt Schnell’s professional record, which currently stands at 17 wins, 9 losses, and 1 No Contest (17-9-0, 1 NC), tells the story of a remarkably well-rounded martial artist. Over half of his victories have come via submission (nine in total), showcasing his unexpected yet highly effective ground game, which earned him two impressive first-round triangle choke finishes inside the Octagon. Fighting out of the highly respected Fortis MMA in Dallas, Schnell has dedicated his life to continually evolving, training alongside some of the world’s best to maintain his edge in a division notorious for its speed and technical skill. His passion for the complex strategy of MMA is deeply rooted in his life, proving that “Danger” is far more than a flashy nickname; it is a calculated approach to combat.
The Fighter Defined by Resilience
Schnell’s run in the UFC, which began with his appearance on The Ultimate Fighter 24, has been a rollercoaster that truly highlights his resilience. While he has faced some brutal losses, it is his spectacular comeback victories that etch him into the memory of fans. Most famously, his 2022 bout against Su Mudaerji, which earned him a Fight of the Night bonus, saw him take immense damage only to rally dramatically and secure a second-round technical submission, showcasing the heart and grit that few possess. His ability to weather a storm and fight through adversity, even returning from a brief sabbatical and a tough losing streak to secure a win over Jimmy Flick in April 2025, defines his character as a fighter who always answers the bell.
The Ultimate Test: Clash with a Rising Star
Now, at 35, Matt Schnell is set to welcome a highly touted new face to the upper ranks of the division. Schnell is scheduled to face the recently crowned The Ultimate Fighter 33 winner Joseph Morales. This pivotal Flyweight matchup will serve as the co-main event for UFC Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. For Schnell, this is a quintessential veteran vs. prospect matchup. A victory over the hot-streaking Morales is essential to re-establish his footing among the top contenders and prove that the “Danger” he brings remains a formidable test for anyone aspiring to reach the top of the flyweight mountain.
Read more | UFC Fight Night 264 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
The Dual Heritage of “Rudeboy”: Getting to Know Randy Brown
The name Randy Brown, and his iconic moniker, “Rudeboy”, conjures an image of laid-back confidence and electrifying action inside the Octagon. But beneath the calm exterior is a story of dual identity, relentless persistence, and a journey spanning two nations that has defined his decade-long career in the world’s premier mixed martial arts promotion. Born in Springfield, Massachusetts, Randy is a proud Jamaican-American, fighting out of both Spanish Town, Jamaica, and Queens, New York. This dual heritage is what Randy stands for, representing the vibrant grit of New York and the unshakeable spirit of the Caribbean every time he steps into the cage.
A Decade of Dedication: Earning the Octagon Spot
Randy Brown’s professional odyssey began in 2014, but his big break came through one of the most unorthodox avenues in the sport: Dana White’s Lookin’ for a Fight talent search. He not only caught the eye of the UFC brass, but his personality and immense potential secured him an immediate contract, kicking off a professional journey that has since seen him amass an impressive 20 wins and 6 losses (20-6-0). Brown’s longevity and ability to continually reinvent himself are the hallmarks of a true professional. For nearly a full decade, he has faced off against the best in the Welterweight division, developing from an intriguing prospect into one of the most accomplished and well-respected veterans discovered through the UFC’s scouting programs. His journey is a testament to the belief that potential, when met with unyielding dedication, can survive and thrive at the highest level of sport.
The Long, Lean Welterweight Conundrum
Standing at six feet, three inches, Randy Brown is a physical anomaly in the 170-pound division, using his significant length and reach to create a perplexing challenge for opponents. His style is characterized by a fluid, unpredictable striking attack, honed over years of competing. In recent times, Brown has shown his evolution and peaking form, securing eight wins in his last ten outings. His most recent victory, a second-round knockout of the notoriously durable veteran Nicolas Dalby, showcased a refined killer instinct and power that he is using to propel himself up the rankings. Brown is not just a fighter; he is a calculated athlete whose performances are fueled by the desire to honor his parents and grandmother, the cornerstones of his life, who instilled the strength and drive necessary to succeed in a brutal sport.
The Road Ahead: A Main Event Spotlight
The next chapter in Randy Brown’s remarkable story is already set. At 35, he has earned his first-ever UFC main event opportunity, a rare and significant accomplishment for any veteran in the promotion. Randy Brown is scheduled to face the dangerous, rising prospect Gabriel Bonfim at UFC Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, USA. For Brown, this fight is a chance to prove he is not merely a gatekeeper for the next generation, but a legitimate threat ready to launch one final, serious run toward the top 10. A victory over Bonfim, who is currently ranked #14, would solidify Brown’s position as an elite welterweight contender and ensure his “Rudeboy” persona continues to demand attention on the world stage.
Read more | UFC Fight Night 264 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL:DR Video
Get to Know UFC Fighter Gabriel Bonfim: The Sledgehammer’s Heart
The journey of Gabriel de Souza Bonfim, known universally by his apt moniker, “Marretinha,” or “Little Sledgehammer”, is a powerful narrative of familial sacrifice, relentless dedication, and the unbreakable spirit forged in the heart of Brazil. Born August 20, 1997, in Brasília, Brazil, Gabriel and his older brother, Ismael, are now a recognized pair of fighting siblings in the UFC, but their path to the world stage was built on overcoming profound hardship.
Forge of the Bonfim Brothers
Gabriel’s roots are humble, growing up in a large family where adversity was a constant companion. When his father abandoned the family due to a struggle with alcohol, the void was instantly filled by his older siblings, who took on jobs to keep food on the table for their family of eleven. This early life lesson, that success is earned through hard work, unity, and sacrifice, became the foundation of the Bonfim family’s fighting philosophy.
The brothers, finding an outlet and a purpose, gravitated toward combat sports from a young age. Gabriel started boxing at 14, following in his brother’s footsteps, and later transitioned to MMA. His dedication was immediately apparent; he became a National Brazilian Boxing Champion and, alongside Ismael, they established the Bonfim Brothers Academy, creating a shared legacy that continues to drive their careers.
The Submission Artist’s Ascent
Gabriel’s professional record, currently standing at an impressive 18 wins and 1 loss (18-1-0), is a testament to his sheer dominance, particularly on the ground. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu brown belt, “Marretinha” is a bona fide submission specialist, with 13 of his 18 victories coming by way of submission. His arsenal of chokes, including multiple guillotine, arm-triangle, and rear-naked chokes, makes him one of the most dangerous finishers in the Welterweight division.
His journey to the UFC was explosive, marked by an undefeated professional run that included winning the LFA Welterweight Championship. In 2022, he earned his UFC contract on Dana White’s Contender Series with a first-round Von Flue choke. Once in the Octagon, he continued his finishing streak, submitting his first two opponents in the first round. While a tough TKO loss to veteran Nicolas Dalby in 2023 tested his resolve, Gabriel demonstrated his unwavering will, immediately learning from the defeat to evolve and secure two consecutive wins, including a split decision victory over the legendary Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson.
The Future: A Main Event Spotlight
Now, at just 28 years old and ranked #14 in the stacked Welterweight division, Gabriel Bonfim is ready for his biggest challenge yet. He is set to headline a UFC card for the first time, facing the powerful Jamaican-American veteran Randy “Rudeboy” Brown.
Welterweights Bonfim vs. Brown will serve as the main event for UFC on ESPN 73 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas, USA, on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This is a pivotal clash; a win for Gabriel would not only solidify his position as one of the division’s elite prospects but would instantly catapult him into the conversation for a Top 10 ranking. For Gabriel Bonfim, the fight isn’t just about rankings; it’s about carrying the weight of his family’s sacrifices and proving that the “Little Sledgehammer” can smash through the highest ceiling in MMA.
Read more | UFC Fight Night 264 | ESPN | Fight Preview | Get to know
TL;DR Video
The Enduring Heart of the Croatian Heavyweight: Ante Delija’s Legacy
The journey of Ante Delija, born August 7, 1990, in Dubrovnik, Croatia, is a powerful testament to resilience and unwavering belief. Known by the chilling nickname “Walking Trouble,” Delija’s career has been less about easy victories and more about overcoming truly catastrophic setbacks, a story that has endeared him to fight fans around the world. He fights not just for wins, but to honor the sheer effort it took to simply stay in the sport he loves.
A Champion’s Test: The Road of Redemption
Delija’s professional career, which began in 2011, has taken him across global promotions like M-1 Global, RIZIN, and KSW. However, one event defined his journey for years: a fight in 2015 against Marcin Tybura, where Delija suffered a horrific open fracture of his tibia. The injury was so severe that it required multiple surgeries and led to a persistent bacterial infection, sidelining him for nearly three years. Many would have retired, but Delija’s commitment was unbreakable.
His return to competition was a victory in itself, but the true redemption came years later in the Professional Fighters League (PFL). After a grueling run, facing the division’s best, Delija secured the ultimate prize: the 2022 PFL Heavyweight World Championship and the accompanying $1 million prize. This championship not only validated his sacrifice but proved that his spirit, like his nickname, is truly “Walking Trouble” for anyone who doubts him.
From the Tournament Grind to the Octagon Spotlight
Delija, fighting out of Gladiator Croatia and Team Kaobon, finally made his long-awaited debut in the UFC in 2025. His entry was nothing short of spectacular: at UFC Paris, he faced Marcin Tybura once more. In a deeply emotional, full-circle moment, Delija emphatically defeated the man against whom he suffered his career-threatening injury, scoring a first-round knockout.
This victory was a culmination of a decade of blood, sweat, and physical anguish, and it immediately propelled the 35-year-old into the elite of the Heavyweight division, debuting at #9 in the UFC Heavyweight rankings. His overall professional record stands at 26 wins and 6 losses (26-6-0), boasting 13 knockouts and 7 submissions, showcasing a tough, well-rounded style focused on pressure, grappling, and relentless finishing power.
The Apex of Contention: A Step Toward the Top
Ante Delija is now set for a quick return to the Octagon for a high-profile co-main event at UFC Fight Night 263 on November 1, 2025, where he faces the charismatic and explosive Waldo Cortes-Acosta.
This matchup is a pivotal crossroads for both men in the Heavyweight rankings. For Delija, it is an immediate opportunity to prove his debut was not a fluke, but the start of a serious championship run. A victory over the higher-ranked Cortes-Acosta would validate his placement among the division’s best and establish him as a truly dangerous contender for the gold.
Read more | UFC Fight Night 263 | ESPN | Making Waves | Get to know
TL;DR Video
Get to know Waldo Cortes-Acosta: From the Diamond to the Octagon, The Journey of ‘Salsa Boy’
Waldo Cortes-Acosta is more than just a UFC Heavyweight; he is the embodiment of a life redirected by passion and hard work. Born on October 3, 1991, in Fundación, Barahona Province, Dominican Republic, Cortes-Acosta’s athletic journey began not in the gym, but on the field. He was a professional baseball player in his home country before a life-changing move brought him to the United States. This background in professional sports instilled a unique combination of high-level athleticism, dedication, and the ability to perform under pressure that would later define his fighting career. His infectious personality and powerful movement earned him the nickname, “Salsa Boy.”
The Heavyweight with Rhythm: Trading a Bat for a Hook
In a move that surprised some but ignited his true calling, Cortes-Acosta began training in boxing and mixed martial arts around the age of 24. This relatively late start meant he had to compress years of development into a short time, a challenge he met with relentless enthusiasm. Fighting out of Phoenix, Arizona, Cortes-Acosta quickly made a name for himself in the professional MMA scene, compiling an impressive early record and capturing the LFA Heavyweight Championship.
His path to the UFC was secured in spectacular fashion in 2022 on Dana White’s Contender Series, where he earned a contract with a definitive first-round TKO, signaling the arrival of a new, dynamic force in the division.
A Permanent Smile and Explosive Power: Conquering the Heavyweight Division
With a professional MMA record of 14 wins and 2 losses (14-2-0), Cortes-Acosta has established himself as a reliable and exciting Heavyweight contender. His style is a thrilling blend of his boxing heritage and newfound martial arts prowess, resulting in six knockouts and one submission victory.
His run in the UFC has included a series of significant victories, showcasing his durability and ability to maintain a high pace for the full three rounds, evidenced by his seven decision wins. He has demonstrated his place among the elite with wins over veteran names like Andrei Arlovski and powerful contenders like Serghei Spivac and Ryan Spann. Though he encountered a recent setback in a unanimous decision loss to former interim challenger Sergei Pavlovich, “Salsa Boy” is ranked #6 in the UFC Heavyweight rankings and remains a constant threat, beloved by fans for his charisma and never-quit attitude inside the Octagon.
The Next Chapter: Maintaining Rank in the Co-Main Event
Waldo Cortes-Acosta is scheduled for his next high-stakes challenge at UFC Fight Night 263 on November 1, 2025. In what is slated as the co-main event, he will face fellow Heavyweight Ante Delija. For Cortes-Acosta, this bout is crucial: a decisive victory over a respected opponent like Delija is essential to maintain his top-10 ranking and prove that he is ready to climb even higher toward a UFC Heavyweight title shot.
TL;DR Video
Read more | UFC Fight Night 263 | ESPN | Be More Waldo | Get to know
Get to Know UFC Fighter David Onama: The Silent Assassin’s Journey
The story of David Aliga Onama is one defined by perseverance, sacrifice, and the relentless pursuit of a dream across continents. Born in the Kyangwali Refugee Settlement in Uganda on June 7, 1994, David’s early life was marked by the necessity of seeking a better future. When he was 10 years old, he and his family made the life-changing move to the United States, settling in Kansas City, Missouri, with the express goal of seeking a better education and a safer, more stable life.
A New Life, A New Fight
Like many young immigrants, Onama arrived with ambition. He eventually pursued martial arts, turning a childhood passion into a profession. He started training in 2013, falling in love with the combination of combat sports and competition. Onama dedicated himself fully to fighting, calling it his “only job,” and quickly rose through the amateur ranks, amassing a perfect 10-0 record.
He transitioned to professional MMA in 2019, quickly compiling an impressive 8-0 record, capturing the FAC Lightweight Championship along the way. His style is encapsulated in his chilling nickname, the “Silent Assassin”: a fighter who doesn’t rely on trash talk but instead uses explosive striking power and a diverse skill set, boasting seven knockouts and four submissions, to finish his opponents.
The Ultimate Goal
Onama’s path to the UFC was an immediate test of his readiness. He took his promotional debut on short notice at a higher weight class (Lightweight), where he fought a grueling three-round decision loss. Rather than being discouraged, this experience only sharpened his focus. Upon returning to his natural Featherweight division (145 lbs), the “Silent Assassin” truly found his stride.
He has since become a thrilling fixture on the UFC roster, known for his willingness to stand in the pocket and exchange. His highlights include two Performance of the Night bonuses for spectacular stoppages over Gabriel Benitez and Gabriel Santos, showcasing his fight-ending power, which is often unleashed by a potent jab and hidden power. He also earned a Fight of the Night award for a savage, back-and-forth battle with Nate Landwehr, proving he has the heart and conditioning to go to war.
Fighting out of Factory X in Colorado, Onama is part of a high-level training camp that has helped him evolve into a more technical striker. For David Onama, fighting in the UFC is more than a job, it’s the fulfillment of a life-long dream and a commitment to providing a better life for his family. He fights for the people who believe in him, a testament to the fact that hard work pays off and that the quiet determination of the “Silent Assassin” speaks louder than any words.
Ascending to the Featherweight Apex
David Onama’s spectacular run of recent victories has elevated him into the ranked featherweight elite. He is now set to compete in the biggest opportunity of his career, headlining his first-ever UFC event against fellow ranked striker Steve “Mean Machine” Garcia. This five-round main event at UFC Fight Night 263 on November 1, 2025, is a high-stakes clash where two of the division’s most dangerous finishers will collide. For Onama, a dominant victory here would propel him significantly up the Featherweight rankings, putting him on the doorstep of the division’s top contenders and cementing his place as a force to be reckoned with.
TL;DR Video
Read more | UFC Fight Night 263 | ESPN | Onama, Excited but Expected | Get to know
Get to Know Steve “Mean Machine” Garcia: New Mexico’s Knockout Heart
From the high-altitude fighting hub of New Mexico comes a mixed martial artist whose quiet dedication speaks volumes through thunderous knockouts: Estevan Garcia Jr., better known as Steve “Mean Machine” Garcia. More than just his formidable 6’0” frame and 75-inch reach, Garcia’s journey is a heartwarming tale of a local kid from Albuquerque and Rio Rancho who found his path and resilience inside the cage.
The Spark of a Fighter
Born on May 22, 1992, Steve Garcia’s martial arts story began not out of a lifelong ambition but through the simple encouragement of his friends. At just 15 years old, he stepped into Greg Jackson’s satellite gym, a decision that would define his life. He refined his skills, training jiu-jitsu and kickboxing before making his home at the world-renowned Jackson-Wink MMA team. This environment became the crucible where he forged the “Mean Machine” persona—a nickname that perfectly captures his aggressive, knockout-hunting style, but perhaps undersells the committed spirit beneath.
His professional career, which began in 2013, has been a testament to his grit. He made a name for himself early in promotions like Bellator MMA, showcasing his power with a string of wins, many coming by way of knockout.
The Path of Resilience
Garcia’s journey to the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) was one of genuine persistence. While he earned an impressive first-round TKO victory on the Dana White’s Contender Series in 2019, he missed weight, which temporarily cost him a contract. This setback highlights a struggle many fighters face: the grueling demands of weight cutting. Garcia ultimately transitioned from the Bantamweight division (135 lbs) up to the Featherweight (145 lbs) and even Lightweight (155 lbs) divisions, a strategic move that allowed his body to perform optimally and showcased his commitment to a sustainable, healthier career.
Once he officially landed in the UFC, Garcia proved that the “Mean Machine” was built for the spotlight. His recent years have been a spectacular display of striking dominance, culminating in an achievement that puts him in the MMA history books: he is tied for the fourth most consecutive knockouts in UFC history (5).
A Man Defined by Action
Steve Garcia stands for the unwavering spirit of a fighter who always moves forward, both literally in the cage and figuratively in life. His professional record of 18 wins and 5 losses, with 14 victories coming by knockout, is proof of his finishing power. He’s been honored three times with the Performance of the Night bonus, rewarding his electrifying wins against opponents like Chase Hooper, Seung Woo Choi, and Kyle Nelson. His unanimous decision victory over veteran Calvin Kattar further solidified his place in the Featherweight rankings, where he stands as a ranked contender.
From the gyms of New Mexico to the bright lights of the UFC, Steve Garcia’s career is an inspiring message that every defeat is merely a detour on the road to a spectacular victory. He is the quiet warrior who lets his fists and elbows do the talking, showing the world that with heart and perseverance, the “Mean Machine” will always keep running.
The Future: A Main Event Spotlight
The journey of the “Mean Machine” is only accelerating. Garcia is preparing for the biggest opportunity of his career as he is scheduled to headline his first-ever UFC event. On Friday, November 1, 2025, Garcia will face fellow ranked Featherweight contender David Onama in the main event of UFC Fight Night 263 at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. This five-round matchup pits two of the division’s most powerful strikers against each other. For Garcia, this main event spot is not just a high-profile fight; it’s a chance to cement his place in the upper echelon of the Featherweight division and prove that the kid from New Mexico has truly arrived as a global fighting star.
TL;DR Video
Read more | UFC Fight Night 263 | ESPN | The Real Steve Garcia | Get to know