Have you missed the last 24 hours of updates from your favorite sport? Don't worry, we're back with the latest edition of the MMA Roundup, bringing you bite-sized updates on the most important news in MMA. Let's get started! The Roundup journey begins with Joe Roganthere seems to be some advice Paige VanZant For the jump into the power slap.
Now, we move on to a major update on the lightweight division. Apparently, the number one contender is Arman Tsariqian He's in serious trouble for his shenanigans at UFC 300. Finally, we'll close this roundup with Nate Diaz appearing as an ally for Conor McGregor in the drama at UFC 303. So, without further ado, let's get started.
Joe Rogan wants Paige VanZant to consider the Power Slap Jump
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Former UFC fighter Paige VanZant has decided to compete in Dana White's Power Slap. VanZant was one of the biggest stars in MMA during her time with UFC, but her form has declined since her loss to Rose Namajunas. She only won two of her last five fights at UFC. After retiring from UFC, she joined BKFC, but VanZant left nothing behind in that young organization, and now she seems keen to compete in Power Slap, much to the frustration of Joe Rogan.
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Via Imago
PHOENIX, ARIZONA – MAY 7: Joe Rogan hosts the broadcast at the UFC 274 event at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona on May 7, 2022. (Photo by Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)
The multimillion-dollar podcaster has some simple advice for her: “Stop it, Paige.”” Logan said in his latest podcast, adding: “She [she says] Can you say, “I'll slap you first?” Can you say, “I'll fight you, but I'll slap you first?”
Well, VanZant should take Rogan's advice seriously because, unlike MMA, there is no defense in the power slap. Speaking of defense, Arman Tsarukyan seems to be struggling to get a title shot, so let's find out why.
Arman Tsarukyan may have to wait to face Islam Makhachev
What was supposed to be a glorious fight for the lightweight title for Arman Tsarukyan now seems to be in a bit of trouble as he was given a nine-month suspension and a fine of $25,000 (including $471.12 in fees) by the NSAC. Tsarukyan fought Charles Oliveira at UFC 300 and won the bout to become the number one contender for the title, but he punched a fan on his way to the Octagon, which the commission found to be a violation.
According to Arman Tsarukyan's manager Danny LubAhman will enter into a PSA with Nevada to have his suspension reduced to six months, giving him until Oct. 12 to become eligible.
— Brett Okamoto (@bokamotoESPN) June 25, 2024
The commission fined him and suspended him for nine months, but according to MMA journalist Brett Okamoto, there are loopholes in that rule.According to Arman Tsarukyan's manager @dannyrube, Arman will do a PSA with Nevada to reduce his suspension to 6 months, making him eligible by October 12th. Okamoto wrote to X:
He further added: “Arman appreciates the NSAC's response in this matter and looks forward to working with UFC and the NSAC to produce an anti-bullying PSA, reducing his suspension, and challenging for the UFC lightweight title before the end of the year.” Tsarukyan will need to submit a video to have his suspension reduced. While Tsarukyan may face a suspension, Conor McGregor appears to be getting support from a former rival out of nowhere.
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Nate Diaz backs Conor McGregor amid UFC 303 dilemma
Conor McGregor was scheduled to face Michael Chandler at UFC 303. This was supposed to be his comeback fight, but he was forced to withdraw from the bout due to an injury to his pinky finger just days before the bout. His withdrawal caused both positive and negative reactions in the MMA world.
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Via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NV – MARCH 4: Nate Diaz attends the UFC 285 event at T-Mobile Arena on March 4, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC via Getty Images)
It's fair to say the entire community was divided on this one, with Nate Diaz following in Joe Rogan's footsteps and coming out publicly in support of McGregor stepping down. “I think it's a minor thing. I think they're making a bigger fuss than it is. It's a good idea. If it happened to me, I'd like to postpone the game too, but everyone will make a big fuss.” Diaz said in an interview with MMAJunkie.
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Diaz also emphasized that McGregor learned from his own mistakes how to avoid getting hurt. By the way, what do you think about Conor McGregor missing UFC 303? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.