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Combat Sports Events

WWE
WWE SmackDown
January 3, 2025
Footprint Center
Phoenix, Arizona

WWE RAW On Netflix
January 6, 2025
Intuit Dome
Inglewood, California
WWE Legends: Past And Present, John Cena, Roman Reigns, Celebrities and more

NXT
NXT New Year's Evil
January 7, 2025
The Shrine Expo Hall
Los Angeles, California
Trick Williams vs Oba Femi vs Eddy Thorpe
Roxanne Perez vs Giulia

WWE SmackDown
January 10, 2025
Moda Center
Portland, Oregon

WWE RAW On Netflix
January 13, 2025
Sap Center
San Jose, California

UFC
UFC Fight Night 249
January 11, 2025
Apex Arena
Paradise, Nevada

WWE SmackDown
January 17, 2025
Pechanga Arena
San Diego, California

WWE RAW On Netflix
January 20, 2025
American Airlines Center
Dallas, Texas

UFC
UFC 311
January 18, 2025
Intuit Dome
Inglewood, California
Makhachev vs Tsarukyan 2

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event
January 25, 2025
Frost Bank Center
San Antonio, Texas

WWE Royal Rumble
February 1, 2025
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana

UFC
UFC 312
February 9, 2025
Qudos Bank Arena
Homebush, Sydney, Australia
du Plessis vs Strickland 2

WWE Elimination Chamber
March 1, 2025
Rogers Centre
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

*card/s subject to change

Combat Sports Watercooler

News

WWE Pro Wrestler Karrion Kross On Mox Telling Him To Call Triple H About A Contract

"After the show, he's like, he basically says 'Hey listen. I'm not telling you where to go. I'm not telling you where to make money. But I'm just saying, you really should call Triple H, cause you could make a very, very good living there" ... "He was like 'Work wherever you want, go wherever you want. But I just have a feeling that if you call him, things are going to be good for you.'

"And I was like...that's like 'What do you mean? Call Triple H? What do you mean?' He's like 'Nah, just call him...I'm giving you his number. I want you to call him.' And I was like 'Oh my god.' Well now I can't [not call him]...So now I had to...So I sent him [Triple H] a text. He calls me and is like 'Is this really Killer Kross?' Cause like, I don't know, it could be a crank caller or somebody gets his number. So we talk, and a few months later, I was in 'NXT,' and that's kind of how that worked." (Not Sam Wrestling)

News

Bully Ray on TNA Wrestling, WWE and AEW via Busted Open Radio

"TNA will grow, the WWE will grow bigger, and we will either be talking about the resurgence or the demise of AEW, and I go 50/50 on that. I want to see the resurgence, but from what I see right this very moment, I hope we're not speaking about the demise, and that's just my fair assessment on everything." (Busted Open Radio)

News

Wrestling Legend Kurt Angle On Wrestling Movies And Career via Talk Is Jericho

"I've been pretty much building to this movie I'm having done about my life's sports story" ... "The directors are Ian and Eshom Nelms. They're really talented directors. The reason why I picked them is because they were wrestlers in high school and college. So they understand my sport.

"So we got the ball rolling with that, and now we're getting investors and we're going to start picking the cast soon. This movie's only about my Olympic story, not my WWE story. There's going to be, actually, two movies. 'Angle 1' and 'Angle 2.' One's for the Olympics, one's for after, my WWE and TNA career, everything after that. It was just too much to put in one movie, so they wanted to split it in two." (Web Is Jericho)

News

Tommy Dreamer on CM Punk And Seth Rollins Raw Face To Face Promo

"It's a very 'what have you done for me lately.' There's so much to get into with CM Punk and leaving, and yes, some people can still harbor a grudge towards that"

"I can't even say 'blurring the lines,' because if you ask me, these two guys don't like each other" (Busted Open After Dark)

News

AEW Signed Adam Copeland On His Injury Via TMZ Sports

"I've actually been cleared for about three months, but then with everything that happened here with the hurricane, it just — we all had the discussion," Copeland said. "It's more important to be home and kind of get everything at home squared away, and then just come back to work."

"In that time, I've been healthy and going to the ring, and been able to go 100 in the gym" ... "It's time. I feel ready." (TMZ Sports)

News

WWE Raw Moves to Netflix

WWE has entered into a significant partnership with Netflix, debuting its flagship show 'Raw' on the streaming platform starting January 6th, 2025. This move has sparked excitement among fans worldwide due to the increased accessibility of WWE content. In the UK, all WWE programming including Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and Premium Live Events will be available live on Netflix, while in the US, only Raw will be streamed. This partnership marks the end of the WWE Network era, with WWE content now transitioning to Netflix. Fans are particularly enthusiastic about the availability of uncensored content and extensive WWE archives, including classics like WrestleMania 17. The collaboration is viewed as a transformative step for WWE's distribution strategy and is expected to influence viewing habits, potentially reintroducing wrestling into mainstream entertainment.

News

MMA/UFC

Strickland's Controversial Comments Stir MMA Community

Sean Strickland, a prominent MMA fighter, recently sparked controversy with his comments on Islam, suggesting it promotes violence and is incompatible with American values. His statements have led to a significant backlash from fans and fellow fighters alike, with many accusing him of hypocrisy given his career in a sport centered around violence. While there has been speculation about a potential match-up with Khamzat Chimaev, a Muslim fighter known for his deep commitment to his faith, no official confirmation of such a fight has been made. The discourse around Strickland's comments has brought to light the complex interplay between personal beliefs, professional conduct, and public statements within the MMA community, highlighting how fighters' personal views can influence their public and professional lives.

Sweet Daddy Siki passes away

WWE is saddened to learn that Elkin James, known to wrestling fans as Sweet Daddy Siki, passed away on December 31, 2024, at age 91.

Siki wrestled worldwide for promotions such as Maple Leaf Wrestling, Grand Prix Wrestling, and Stampede Wrestling through the ’60s and ’70s and became a fixture in the Toronto community. He trained many future wrestlers out of Sully’s Gym in Toronto, Canada, including iconic WWE Superstars Edge and Christian.

WWE extends its condolences to Siki’s family, friends and fans. (WWE)

News/Profile

Combat Sports via Grok

Combat sports are competitive physical activities involving one-on-one combat where the objective is to score more points, submit, disable, or defeat an opponent through regulated techniques. These sports have a rich history, tracing back to various ancient civilizations and have evolved into diverse forms practiced worldwide:

Boxing: A sport where competitors use their fists to throw punches within a designated ring, aiming to outscore or knock out their opponent. It's one of the oldest combat sports, with roots in ancient cultures like Egypt and Greece, and became an Olympic sport in 1904.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): Often seen in promotions like the UFC, MMA combines techniques from numerous martial arts including wrestling, boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It gained significant recognition in the 1990s and is known for its no-holds-barred approach within a regulated environment.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Developed by the Gracie family in Brazil, BJJ focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It became popular through MMA and is now practiced globally for both sport and self-defense.

Muay Thai: Known as "The Art of Eight Limbs," this Thai martial art uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes, making it uniquely comprehensive in terms of striking techniques.

Wrestling: With styles like freestyle and Greco-Roman, wrestling involves grappling techniques to pin or throw an opponent. It's one of the oldest sports, with historical ties to ancient Greece, and is a mainstay in the Olympics.

Judo: A Japanese martial art emphasizing throws and submission holds, judo has been an Olympic sport since 1964, showcasing its global impact on combat sports.

Kickboxing: A hybrid sport that incorporates elements from boxing, karate, and other martial arts, focusing on both punches and kicks. It's popular in both professional and amateur circuits.

Combat sports also serve various benefits beyond competition, including physical fitness, mental toughness, and self-defense skills. They are regulated by organizations to ensure safety, with rules varying by sport and sometimes by region. In Australia, for instance, combat sports are overseen by bodies like the Combat Sports Authority of NSW, ensuring participants are registered and events are permitted.

These sports are not only about physical confrontation but also promote discipline, respect, and sportsmanship among participants. They have a cultural significance, often tied to national heritage, and continue to evolve with new techniques, safety measures, and competitive formats. (Grok)

News/Profile

Pro Wrestling

Professional Wrestling Overview: Professional wrestling is a form of athletic theater that combines mock combat with drama, where the premise is that performers are competitive wrestlers. It's distinguished by its scripted outcomes and emphasis on entertainment over genuine competition. The staged nature of matches is an open secret, maintained through a practice known as "kayfabe," where both wrestlers and spectators pretend that the performances are legitimate competitions. Wrestlers perform as characters with distinctive gimmicks, including unique attire, stage names, and entrance themes.

Current Landscape: As of early January 2025, the wrestling landscape in Australia includes notable promotions like Pro Wrestling Australia (PWA) in Sydney, which focuses on providing both adult-themed and family-friendly shows. United Pro Wrestling (UPW) is another key player, particularly in Queensland, known for its quality events and character development. Melbourne City Wrestling (MCW) has been active with events like their anniversary celebration planned for March 15, 2025.

Global Influence: Wrestling has achieved mainstream success worldwide, influencing popular culture with its terminology and concepts. It's performed across various promotions globally, with unique styles in countries like the U.S., Mexico, Japan, and Europe. The largest promotions continue to be WWE and AEW, with significant cultural impact through television, music, film, and video games.

Community and Culture: Professional wrestling has developed its own culture, including a vernacular specific to the industry. Fans engage through live events, online discussions, and fan-created content, showing the community's dedication and passion for the sport-entertainment hybrid.

For more specific details on events, wrestlers, or promotions, further exploration into current wrestling news sources would be beneficial. (Grok)

News

WWE: Events

WWE hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from weekly televised shows to premium live events (PLEs), previously known as pay-per-views (PPVs). Here's a breakdown of the upcoming WWE events:

Weekly Shows:
Monday Night Raw: Broadcast live every Monday. The next event on January 13, 2025, is at the SAP Center in San Jose, CA.

Friday Night SmackDown: Aired live every Friday. The upcoming event on January 3, 2025, will be at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, AZ.

WWE NXT: Typically taped or live on Tuesday nights. The next significant event, New Year's Evil, is scheduled for January 7, 2025, at The Shrine LA in Los Angeles, CA.

Premium Live Events (PLEs) for 2025:

Saturday Night's Main Event: January 25, 2025, at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, TX.

Royal Rumble: February 1, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.

Elimination Chamber: March 1, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada, marking WWE's return to Canada for a PLE.

WrestleMania: While the exact date for WrestleMania 41 hasn't been mentioned in the available data, it's traditionally held in April.

International and Specialty Events:

WWE is planning a European Tour starting in mid-March 2025. No specific dates or locations within this tour have been detailed yet.

There's also mention of WWE considering multi-night formats for major events like the Royal Rumble and Money in the Bank in future years.

Streaming and Viewing:

All WWE PLEs are available live on Peacock in the United States and through various international WWE Network partners or other streaming services in other countries. In Australia, PPVs are shown on Main Event.

Weekly shows like Raw, SmackDown, and NXT are broadcast on traditional TV and streaming services depending on the region.

Additional Notes:
WWE has no scheduled live events in the U.S. until the European Tour in March, which has been reported to be well-received by talent for providing a break.
There's a buzz about CM Punk main eventing WrestleMania, indicating his significant role in upcoming storylines.

For the most up-to-date information, checking WWE's official website or following WWE on social media platforms would provide real-time updates on any changes or additional events. (Grok)

Wrestling/Pop Culture News

Mildred Burke biopic: Queen of the Ring

Under The Media Man Watercooler

Premiers: Newport Beach Film Festival

Lead: Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke

Quotes to UPI

"I was like, 'Oh, I feel like I can do that. I just haven't'"

"I've always been super active and I pick up things pretty fast."

Burke wrestled professionally from 1937 to 1956 and launched her own World Women's Wrestling Association after leaving the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Rickards portrays Burke, covering her training through the wrestling organization's creation.

"Mildred was a pioneer in this arena"

"She really brought women to wrestling"

"It was heavy weights, slow on the way down, faster on the way up"

"There was a period of time where I remember putting my hands on my hips and I just felt solid, like there was just more of me."

"Wrestling is a lot about safety"

"To take the bump, you spread out"

Deborah Ann Woll, Francesca Eastwood, Marie Avgeropoulous, Kelli Berglund and Damaris Lewis also play real-life wrestlers. AEW's Kailey Farmer and WWE's Toni Rossall portray two of Burke's real-life opponents.

Farmer helped train her in pro wrestling.

"If you see us wrestling on-screen, she's leading"

"She brought me into that trust as someone who is an actor, not a wrestler but was doing my darndest."

"This ability to weave story and have it be structured but improvised -- there's an essence there that is so beautiful"

"I'd say acting actually is all contact"

"Maybe it's not punching each other all the time, but it is really about affecting the other person"

Mildred Burke Profile/News via Grok

Mildred Burke was a pivotal figure in professional wrestling, particularly known for her contributions to women's wrestling. Here's an overview based on the information available up to October 20, 2024:

Career: Mildred Burke began her wrestling career in the early 1930s and quickly made a name for herself by not only competing against but often defeating male competitors. Her heyday lasted from the mid-1930s to the mid-1950s, during which she held the NWA World Women's Championship for nearly twenty years, showcasing her dominance in the sport.

Achievements: Burke is recognized for her strength, tenacity, and for being a trailblazer for women in wrestling. She was instrumental in introducing women's wrestling to several countries, including the United States, Canada, Cuba, Mexico, and parts of Asia like Japan, where she helped lay the groundwork for what would become a significant scene for women's wrestling.

Legacy: Burke's legacy is honored in several Halls of Fame:

She was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the Legacy Wing in 2016, recognizing her as one of the first major female competitors in wrestling.
She's also a member of the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame, underscoring her impact on the sport.

Personal Life and Challenges: Burke's career was marked by personal and professional challenges, particularly her tumultuous relationship with Billy Wolfe, a promoter who was also her husband. Their relationship was fraught with issues, including Wolfe's infidelities and control over the business aspects of wrestling, which led to significant conflicts and legal battles over the control of women's wrestling.

Film: Her life story has been adapted into a biographical sports drama film titled "Queen of the Ring," where actress Emily Bett Rickards portrays Burke. This film aims to capture her struggle, success, and the broader impact she had on women's wrestling. The film has garnered attention for its portrayal of Burke's life, with its premiere events listed in various film festivals in October 2024.

Cultural Impact: Beyond her in-ring achievements, Burke's efforts helped to legitimize women's wrestling. Her story, involving both her wrestling prowess and her fight for the recognition of women in the sport, continues to inspire new generations of female wrestlers.

Mildred Burke's story is not just one of athletic achievement but also of breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, making her a significant figure in both sports and women's history. (Grok)

Queen of the Ring via Grok

The term "Queen of the Ring" relates to several entities across different media:

WWE's Queen of the Ring: This is a professional wrestling tournament by WWE, where Nia Jax won the tournament in 2024, as indicated by posts on X. This event was part of WWE's broader push to highlight women's wrestling, providing the winner with a match for the WWE Women's Championship at SummerSlam.

Mildred Burke Biopic: There's a biographical film titled "Queen of the Ring" focusing on Mildred Burke, the first million-dollar female athlete and a pioneer in women's professional wrestling. This film has been shown at various film festivals in 2024, with its world premiere and subsequent screenings noted across the U.S.

South Korean TV Series: "Queen of the Ring" also refers to a South Korean drama series, part of the "Three Color Fantasy" trilogy, which aired in 2017. It's a romantic drama involving characters in a fictional narrative around themes of appearance and personal relationships.

News

MMA

UFC 311 Betting

UFC 311, scheduled for January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, features several high-profile fights with notable betting odds. Here's a breakdown of the betting information for the main events:

Main Event: Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan Islam Makhachev is listed as the favorite with odds around -235 to -334, indicating a strong likelihood of retaining his lightweight title.

Arman Tsarukyan comes in as the underdog with odds ranging from +200 to +250, suggesting a potential for an upset but less likely according to the bookmakers.

Co-Main Event: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov

Umar Nurmagomedov is the betting favorite at -220, reflecting confidence in his undefeated record and grappling prowess.

Merab Dvalishvili is the underdog with +185 odds, despite being the current champion, possibly due to Nurmagomedov's impressive run and the anticipation around his title challenge.

Other Notable Fights:
Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill: The odds here are close, with Hill at -103 and Prochazka at -117 or vice versa, depending on the latest updates, indicating a highly competitive match.

For those interested in placing bets, these odds provide a snapshot of how the betting markets view the chances of each fighter. Remember, odds can shift as the fight date approaches based on various factors including fighter form, public betting trends, and any last-minute news.

Please note, betting on UFC fights involves risks, and these odds should be used for informational purposes. Always bet responsibly and within your means. If you're looking to place bets, consider checking with reputable betting sites for the most current odds. (Grok)

News/Profile

WWE WrestleMania Vegas 2025

WWE WrestleMania 41 is set to take place in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium on April 19 and 20, 2025. This will be the second time Las Vegas hosts WrestleMania, with the first being WrestleMania IX in 1993 at Caesars Palace. The event will span two nights, marking a continued trend from the format established during the 2020 event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Event Details: WrestleMania 41, also known as WrestleMania Vegas, will feature matches from both Raw and SmackDown brand divisions. The event will be broadcasted via pay-per-view and livestreaming, with international markets able to watch on Netflix following the WWE Network's merger with the platform in January 2025. This will be the first WrestleMania to occur during Easter weekend.

Ticket Information: Tickets for WrestleMania 41 went on sale on October 25, 2024, with presales starting on October 23. There are also 2-day combo tickets available for purchase.

Cultural Impact: The event is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Las Vegas, with more than 180,000 fans anticipated to attend, occupying over 144,000 room nights. Apart from the main event, WWE will also host Raw, SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver, the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, and WWE World, contributing to a comprehensive fan experience.

Notable Matches: There have been discussions about potential matches, including a bout between John Cena and Logan Paul for WrestleMania 41.

This event signifies WWE's return to one of the world's entertainment capitals, promising a grand spectacle with a mix of sports and entertainment. (Grok)

Media Man Int

Combat Sports (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/combat_sports.html

Pop Culture (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/pop_culture.html

Coming Soon (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/coming_soon.html

Wrestling News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_news.html

Wrestling Watercooler (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_watercooler.html

AEW News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/aew_news.html

Sports News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/articles2.html

2024

WWE Speed
Every Wednesday on X

WWE Crown Jewel
November 2, 2024
Kingdom Arena
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Cody Rhodes vs Gunther
Roman Reigns and The Usos vs The Bloodline

UFC Fight Night
November 2, 2024
Rogers Place
Edmonton, Canada
Moreno vs Albazi
Blanchfield vs Namajunas

BKFC
BKFC 68
Utilta Arena
Newcastle, United Kingdom
Faulkner vs Oscar

WWE Raw
November 3, 2024
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Fallout from Crown Jewel
The Road To Survivor Series

WWE NXT
NXT 2300
November 6, 2024
2300 Arena FKA ECW Arena
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Numerous ECW legends to appear

WWE SmackDown
November 8, 2024
Keybank Center
Buffalo, New York

UFC
UFC Night Night Vegas
November 10, 2024
Apex Arena, Las Vegas
Magney vs Prates

WWE Raw
November 11, 2024
Van Andel Arena
Grand Rapids, Michigan

UFC
November 17, 2024
UFC 309
Madison Square Garden
New York
Jones vs Miocic

UFC
November 23, 2024
UFC Fight Night
Yan vs Figueiredo
Galaxy Arena
Macau, SAR, China

WWE Survivor Series: War Games
November 30, 2024
Rogers Arena
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Boxing
Frank Warren/Queensberry Promotions
Usyk vs Fury
December 21, 2024
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

UFC
December 8, 2024
UFC 310
Muhammad vs Rakhmonov
T-Mobile Arena
Las Vegas, Nevada

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event
December 14, 2024
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Long Island, Uniondale, New York

UFC
UFC on ESPN 83 aka UFC Fight Night
December 14, 2024
Amalie Arena
Tampa, Florida

2025

UFC
UFC Fight Night 249
January 11, 2025
Apex Arena
Paradise, Nevada

UFC
UFC 311
January 18, 2025

WWE Royal Rumble
February 1, 2025
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana

*card/s subject to change

Combat Sports Week

WWE Raw
November 11, 2024
Grand Rapids, Michigan

WWE NXT
November 12,, 2024
Orlando, Florida

WWE SmackDown
November 15, 2024
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson
Netflix - Most Valuable Promotions
November 15, 2024
Arlington, Texas

UFC 309
November 16, 2024
New York City, New York

News

Combat Sports Week via Grok

Combat Sports Week is a term often used to describe a week packed with significant events in various combat sports like boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), kickboxing, and more. Here's a look at what's happening based on recent information:

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson: This boxing event has captured a lot of attention due to its unique matchup. Jake Paul, known for his YouTube fame and his transition into boxing, is set to fight against the legendary former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. This event is highlighted as part of a significant weekend in combat sports, showcasing the blend of traditional boxing fame with modern influencer culture.

UFC 309: Scheduled for November 16, 2024, at Madison Square Garden, this UFC event features a heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. This match-up is anticipated to be a highlight of the combat sports calendar, bringing together two of the most storied fighters in the division's history.

Gamebred FC Bareknuckle MMA: An event featuring 12 UFC veterans participating in bareknuckle MMA, headlined by Randy Costa for the first-ever Gamebred bantamweight belt. This event is noted for being available to watch for free on platforms like YouTube and X, indicating a shift towards more accessible viewing for fans.

These events collectively define what many enthusiasts would call a "Combat Sports Week," where fans get to witness high-profile fights across different disciplines, showcasing both established legends and rising stars in the world of combat sports. If you're a fan of these sports, this week offers a plethora of action, from traditional boxing to the raw intensity of bareknuckle MMA, all highlighted by significant bouts that could define careers and legacies. (Grok)

News

Fight Week via Grok

"Fight Week" typically refers to the week leading up to a significant combat sports event, such as a boxing match or a UFC fight. Here's what you might expect during a typical Fight Week:

Pre-Fight Activities:
Training: Fighters often scale back intense training to avoid injuries, focusing instead on fine-tuning techniques, strategy sessions, and lighter workouts. The intensity decreases as the week progresses, with some fighters tapering off to rest and hydration management.

Weight Cutting: For those in weight class sports like boxing or MMA, this is the time when fighters cut weight to meet the required limits. This can involve dehydration, dietary adjustments, and other weight loss strategies.

Media Obligations: Fighters participate in press conferences, media days, and interviews. This is when they might face off with their opponents for promotional purposes, often leading to memorable moments or trash-talking.

Open Workouts: Some events allow fans or media to watch fighters train, although these workouts are usually light and more for show than for serious training.

Weigh-Ins:
Usually held a day before the fight, weigh-ins are crucial for ensuring fighters meet the weight requirements of their division. This can be tense, with last-minute weight cuts sometimes visible.

Final Preparations:
Fighters might have their last sparring sessions early in the week, followed by rest, recovery, and mental preparation. Hydration and nutrition are carefully managed, especially after weigh-ins when fighters rehydrate and refuel.

Fan Events:
For big events like UFC's International Fight Week, there are numerous fan-centric activities like meet-and-greets, fan expos, and Q&A sessions with fighters.

Fight Day:
The culmination of Fight Week where all the preparation comes to fruition. Fighters usually have a very light day, focusing on staying calm, mentally sharp, and physically ready for the fight.

For 2024, notable events during Fight Weeks include:

UFC 303 featuring significant bouts like Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka 2, set for June, showcasing the typical fight week activities leading up to this major event.

Boxing events like Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul on November 15, where the build-up would include all the traditional elements of a fight week, amplified by the personalities involved.

These weeks are filled with anticipation, strategy, and often, drama, as fighters and their teams navigate through the final preparations for their bouts. (Grok)

Combat Sports Watercooler

Gonzo X N Grok News For Gonzo Journalists And Online Publishers Thirsty For Fresh News Of The Web Press; X/Grok Win Media Man 'Platform Of The Year' award; YouTube runner up, followed by LinkedIn. WWE wins Media Man 'Wrestling Promotion Of The Year'; UFC Wins Media Man 'MMA Promotion Of The Year"; Live Event Dates

December 2024

Cody Rhodes Hospitalized After Title Defense Against Kevin Owens

Cody Rhodes successfully defended his Undisputed WWE Championship against Kevin Owens at the historic return of Saturday Night's Main Event, but the victory came at a cost. Following the match, Rhodes was hospitalized with a spinal injury, though specifics like cervical swelling and axial compression remain unconfirmed. The wrestling community is abuzz with speculation about the repercussions for Owens, with some fans calling for his suspension, while others ponder potential storyline developments, including whether Triple H might strip Rhodes of his title or organize a tournament. Despite the uncertainty, the WWE Universe has rallied in support of Rhodes, wishing for his speedy recovery and return to the ring. (Grok)

News

Usyk vs Fury: The Rematch for Heavyweight Supremacy

The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation for the rematch between Oleksandr Usyk and Tyson Fury, scheduled for December 21 in Riyadh. This fight is not just for the heavyweight titles but also for supremacy in the ring. Usyk, known for his technical boxing skills, is favored by some to repeat his victory over Fury, potentially by decision or knockout. However, opinions vary, with many still backing Fury due to his physical advantages and possible tactical improvements since their last encounter. Discussions around Fury's training camp challenges add an element of unpredictability. The event's significance is further amplified by the prospect of a trilogy fight, making this rematch a critical chapter in their storied rivalry. (Grok)

News

UFC Tampa: Buckley's Dominant TKO Over Covington Sparks Controversy

In the main event of UFC Tampa, Joaquin Buckley delivered a performance that left fans and critics talking, securing a TKO victory over Colby Covington due to a doctor's stoppage prompted by a severe cut on Covington's eyelid. Despite the stoppage, opinions are divided on its timing, with UFC President Dana White suggesting the fight would have continued in Las Vegas. Buckley's aggressive tactics and the subsequent stoppage have led to discussions about the fight's outcome, with some questioning whether the stoppage was premature. Covington, known for his resilience, remains optimistic about his future in MMA, although this loss has sparked conversations about his current standing in the sport. The event, held at Amalie Arena, concluded the UFC's year with a bang, leaving fans eager for what's next for both fighters. (Grok)

News

MJF and Big Boom AJ Face Off at Boca Raton Championship Wrestling

At a recent Boca Raton Championship Wrestling event, MJF and Big Boom AJ had a notable face-to-face encounter. This interaction followed an incident where Big Boom AJ knocked out QT Marshall, adding fuel to their ongoing feud. While MJF's match outcome with QT Marshall wasn't detailed in reports, the confrontation with Big Boom AJ has sparked discussions among fans and commentators. Speculation is rife about a potential high-profile match between MJF and Big Boom AJ, with some suggesting it could headline an event in Texas or even feature at AEW Revolution. This event continues to highlight the dynamic and unpredictable nature of professional wrestling. (Grok)

News

GCW: Chris Jericho

Chris Jericho, known by his real name Christopher Keith Irvine, is a prominent figure in professional wrestling, currently signed with All Elite Wrestling (AEW) and holding the Ring of Honor (ROH) World Championship. His unexpected appearance at a Game Changer Wrestling (GCW) event, specifically at "Highest In The Room 3" on December 14, 2024, has made headlines. During this event, Jericho attacked both Matt Cardona and EFFY in what seems to be a continuation of his storyline with Cardona, who he is scheduled to face at ROH Final Battle on December 20, 2024.

Jericho's appearance at GCW was significant due to recent tensions between AEW and GCW. This event followed after AEW pulled talent like Ricky Starks from GCW shows, reportedly due to comments made by EFFY about AEW's Tony Khan. However, Jericho showing up in GCW wearing an AEW shirt might indicate either a thawing of relations or a strategic move to promote the upcoming ROH title match, showcasing the complexity of inter-promotional relationships in wrestling.

Jericho's actions at GCW included disguising himself before attacking Cardona during his match with EFFY, allowing EFFY to pick up the win, only for Jericho to then reveal himself and attack EFFY as well. This has been interpreted as both an angle to build up the match at Final Battle and a way to stir the pot between AEW and GCW, with Jericho's characteristic flair for drama and surprise.

The incident has sparked discussions on social media and wrestling news sites, with many noting it as a potential sign of collaboration or at least a temporary truce between AEW and GCW, highlighting how wrestling narratives can blur the lines between real-life business disputes and scripted entertainment. (Grok)

News

UFC: NFTS

UFC NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens associated with the Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC), are digital collectibles that represent various moments and memorabilia from UFC fights. Here's a comprehensive overview based on available information:

What Are UFC NFTs?
Digital Collectibles: These NFTs are video clips or images capturing iconic fight moments in UFC history, similar to digital trading cards. They are verified using blockchain technology, ensuring their uniqueness and authenticity.

Types of NFTs: UFC NFTs include fighter collections, fight night artwork, event posters, championship belts, avatars, and more. Each type offers fans a different way to connect with the sport or celebrate specific events or fighters.

Partnerships:
Dapper Labs: UFC partnered with Dapper Labs to launch "UFC Strike," where fans could purchase packs containing multiple NFT moments for $50 each. These packs offered highlights from some of the most memorable UFC fights. Fighters featured in these NFTs share 50% of the revenue from their sales.

http://Crypto.com: Another collaboration was with http://Crypto.com, where unique UFC collectibles were introduced in the http://Crypto.com NFT marketplace. This included fan posters, event shards, and event belts, with royalties going to the athletes.

Market Dynamics and Sales

Sales and Popularity: Initial drops like UFC Strike sold out quickly, indicating a strong interest among fans. For instance, the first drop of UFC Strike sold out within hours, with each fighter involved earning around $18,000 per NFT they were featured in.

Marketplace and Trading: These NFTs can be bought, sold, and traded on specific marketplaces like UFC Strike's own platform or others linked to partnerships like http://Crypto.com. This trading aspect adds a layer of engagement for fans, akin to collecting and trading physical sports cards.

Current Status and Developments
2024 Updates: Recent posts on X suggest that UFC NFTs are still being traded, with examples like an Aljamain Sterling NFT from UFC 228 being sold for $150.

Innovations: There's an ongoing evolution in how these NFTs are used, with ideas like integrating them with betting or offering additional perks like sweepstakes or exclusive content access.

Challenges and Criticisms

Market Volatility: Like all NFTs, UFC NFTs are subject to the volatility of the crypto market. The value can fluctuate dramatically, leading to skepticism about their long-term investment potential.

Fan Reception: While some fans are enthusiastic, there's also criticism, as seen in discussions on platforms like Reddit where the concept of buying digital moments is questioned.

Conclusion
UFC NFTs represent a blend of sports memorabilia with modern blockchain technology, aiming to engage fans in new ways through digital ownership of fight moments.

While they've experienced both success and skepticism, they continue to be part of UFC's strategy to connect with fans and offer new revenue streams to fighters. However, like any digital asset, they come with inherent risks and market fluctuations. (Grok)

News

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event: Texas

The next WWE Saturday Night's Main Event is scheduled to take place in San Antonio, Texas, at the Frost Bank Center on January 25, 2025. This event marks a return of the classic show to primetime television, airing live on NBC and simulcast on Peacock. It will be the second primetime special under WWE's new five-year media rights deal with NBCUniversal. (Grok)

News

WWE Royal Rumble 2025

The WWE Royal Rumble 2025 is an upcoming professional wrestling event set to take place on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. This event marks the 38th annual Royal Rumble and will notably be the first time the event is not held in January. Here are some key details:

Venue: Lucas Oil Stadium, which can accommodate up to 70,000 people for this event, is also home to the Indianapolis Colts.

Streaming and Broadcast: The event will be available via pay-per-view (PPV) and livestreaming. In the US, it will stream on Peacock, and for most international markets, it will be the first WWE PPV and livestreaming event to air on Netflix following the WWE Network's move to the service in January 2025.

Matches: The event will feature the traditional men's and women's Royal Rumble matches, where the winners typically earn a world championship match at WrestleMania. For 2025, the winners can choose which championship they will challenge for at WrestleMania 41; men can choose between Raw's World Heavyweight Championship or SmackDown's Undisputed WWE Championship, while women can select between Raw's Women's World Championship and SmackDown's WWE Women's Championship.

Special Appearances: John Cena has been announced to compete, marking his last Royal Rumble appearance before his retirement at the end of 2025. There's speculation around potential surprise entrants and returns, including WWE legends or stars from other promotions like TNA's Jordynne Grace, who made an appearance in the 2024 event.

Ticket Information: Tickets went on presale on November 13, 2024, with general public sales starting on November 15, 2024, at 10 a.m. ET/7 a.m. PT via http://Ticketmaster.com. Premium seating and hospitality packages are also available through On Location.
Event Start Time: The event is scheduled to start at 6 p.m. ET, continuing the trend of earlier start times for WWE Premium Live Events (PLEs).

This Royal Rumble is part of a broader partnership with Indiana Sports Corp, which will also bring WrestleMania and SummerSlam to Indianapolis in the future. The event promises to kick off the road to WrestleMania 41 with potential for memorable moments, surprise returns, and significant matches. (Grok)

News

UFC 312

UFC 312 is scheduled to take place on February 9, 2025, at the Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Here are some key details about the event:

Main Event: The event will be headlined by a UFC Middleweight Championship rematch between the current champion, Dricus du Plessis, and former champion, Sean Strickland. They previously fought at UFC 297, where du Plessis won the title by split decision.

Co-Main Event: The co-main event features a UFC Women's Strawweight Championship bout between the current two-time champion, Zhang Weili, and Tatiana Suarez, who won The Ultimate Fighter: Team Joanna vs. Team Cláudia strawweight tournament.

Additional Fights: Other matches announced for the card include:

Quillan Salkilld vs. Anshul Jubli at lightweight.

Rei Tsuruya vs. Stewart Nicoll at flyweight.

Jimmy Crute vs. Marcin Prachnio at light heavyweight.

Event Significance: This event marks the UFC's seventh visit to Sydney and will be the first since UFC 293 in September 2023. It is part of a deal between the UFC and the New South Wales Government to host three premium events in Sydney between 2023 and 2027.

Ticket Information: Tickets for UFC 312 are expected to go on sale to the general public on Friday, December 13, 2024, at 12 noon (AEDT) and will be available through Ticketek.

This event promises to be a significant one for MMA fans, especially for those in Australia, with two championship bouts on the line. (Grok)

News

RAW On Netflix

WWE Raw on Netflix: Starting in January 2025, WWE's flagship program, "Raw," will exclusively stream on Netflix in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Latin America, and more territories over time. This long-term deal, reported to be worth $5 billion, marks the first time in Raw's 31-year history that it will move from traditional television to a streaming service.

Availability: Raw will be available live every Monday night, showcasing WWE superstars, action, drama, and unmatched athleticism. Netflix will also become the home for all WWE shows and specials outside the U.S., including "SmackDown," "NXT," and major events like WrestleMania, SummerSlam, and Royal Rumble.

Changes: There's speculation about changes in content presentation due to Netflix's platform. The move to Netflix could lead to less censorship and potentially more edgy content, although WWE will likely maintain a balance between its established audience and the streaming platform's global reach. Discussions around the show's format include the possibility of fewer commercial breaks, potentially allowing for more cohesive storytelling and match time, and flexible show lengths without the constraint of traditional TV scheduling.

Audience Reaction: There's a mix of excitement and concern among fans. Some are thrilled about the new theme song by Travis Scott and the debut at the Intuit Dome in Los Angeles, while others express worries about the logistics of watching, such as potential streaming issues and the cost of subscriptions. The reduction of Raw from three hours to two hours until its official Netflix premiere has also sparked discussions about the show's future format.

Impact on WWE: This partnership is described as transformative, potentially expanding WWE's reach with Netflix's global audience and bringing weekly live appointment viewing to the streaming service. The deal is expected to alter how fans consume pro wrestling programming, offering new opportunities for storytelling and viewer engagement.

Overall, the move of Raw to Netflix is seen as a significant shift in WWE's broadcasting strategy, promising both new opportunities and challenges in adapting the content for a streaming audience.

News

TNA Wrestling: News

Here are some of the top headlines and updates regarding TNA Wrestling news as of today:

TNA Final Resolution Event: TNA Wrestling is set to host its Final Resolution event on December 13, 2024, at Center Stage in Atlanta, GA, streaming live on TNA+. The event was sold out, and it features significant matches like a 4-Way Match involving Joe Hendry, Josh Alexander, Mike Santana, and Steve Maclin, where the winner will earn a shot at the TNA World Championship at Genesis. Nic Nemeth is also scheduled to defend the TNA World Championship against AJ Francis.

TNA World Championship Match: Nic Nemeth is defending the TNA World Championship against AJ Francis at Final Resolution. This match has been highlighted as a key event, adding to the anticipation around the championship scene in TNA.

TNA's 2025 Major Events: TNA Wrestling has announced plans for major live events in 2025, with the Rebellion PPV set for the Galen Center in Los Angeles and Slammiversary at UBS Arena in Belmont Park, New York. These events reflect TNA's strategy to engage with larger audiences in significant markets.

Rhino's Departure: Rhino announced his departure from TNA Wrestling, with his last match being against Ryan Nemeth. This marks the end of a significant chapter for Rhino in TNA, where he has been since 2019 and was inducted into the TNA Hall of Fame.

Tessa Blanchard's Return: There's considerable discussion around Tessa Blanchard's return to TNA Wrestling, which has sparked debate due to her previous controversies. This move by TNA has been met with mixed reactions regarding the promotion's approach to talent management and second chances.

TNA iMPACT! and Upcoming Matches: TNA iMPACT! featured notable action with matches like The Rascalz facing off against new teams, and there was also a focus on the buildup to Final Resolution with various storylines and matches announced. The recent episode highlighted a tag team match involving The Hardys and other significant confrontations.

Mystery Teasers and Appearances: TNA has been teasing some unexpected elements, like the "23" video played after a match on iMPACT, hinting at potential returns or debuts. Additionally, John Layfield's presence at Turning Point has added to the intrigue around TNA's narrative direction.

These updates encapsulate TNA Wrestling's recent activities, upcoming events, and some of the discussions surrounding their management decisions and match outcomes. (Grok)

News

Wrestling Legend Jesse Ventura Back In WWE; Appears On Bill Simmons Podcast With The Inside Scoop

On Vince McMahon not liking his success with Predator: “That ain’t what it’s about with [Vince]. With people like him, and power people with money like that, it’s control. It ain’t got nothing to do with doing deals and doing the right thing and promoting the correct way. It’s all about control. I was the horse that got out of the corral. I wouldn’t let him market me.”

On owning the copyright of his name and gimmick: “That’s the final straw. I was going to do my own video game, and Vince said, ‘You can’t do it.’ I said, ‘I own my rights, I’m registered with the government. Jesse The Body Ventura, I own the copyright with the government. How can you tell me I can’t do it?’ That was the final straw. That’s when he fired me. I never did get the video game. I think some hanky pank went on there, too. I don’t know. I have no evidence.”

Under The Media Man Watercooler

"Grok really helped save our skin and gigs these past few month Greg"

"You ain't friggin kidding Paul"

"Some of the mainstream media got us thinking all AI was going to be as evil as a big farma bean counter or international arms dealer"

"Yeah, but Musk's X and Grok provided us with enough evidence that X Corp products such as X and it's Grok 2 and soon Grok 3 could be actually helpful to media firms like this one"

"Wasn't it Google or someone that had a slogan something like, Don't Be Evil or something a decade or two back"

"Yeah, and what's the latest on that"

"The lines get blurred sometimes. You know, between real news and that fake news Donald Trump has warned the world about"

"Hey, here's Simon, just in time for a coffee and dose of truth"

"What's the tech update fellas"

"Well X is going to have X-Mail soon, the domains are renewed, hosting sorted out for a few more year, and the boss recons he heard massive drones off the east coast of Sydney last week"

"Drones on the eastern beaches. What the *uck"

"Yeah, but he heard them, not saw them. Reckons it was like War Of The Words meets Blade Runner and elements of The Matrix all in one"

"They say fact is stranger than fiction mate"

"You ain't kidding bro. Get us another cuppa will ya"

"Now, this algorithm stuff with X and Google. Is it helping with the SEO on the main websites"

"Yeah boss, but some of its somewhat speculative"

"Yeah, they say don't trust big tech too much"

"I know. but X is sort of a different animal. A few of them used to work for PayPal too. That means X-Pay is a pretty safe bet too, whether it happens in 6 months or a few years. X TV is gaining steam too"

"A few of you guys used to work for Optus pay TV didn't you"

"Yeah, blitzed it for years"

"Your a Netflix guy now right"

"Yeah, a customer. Not on the payroll at this stage of the game"

"Combat sports, retention strategy and that sort of thing would be the go"

"Yeah, Now, back to online publishing. X and Grok are helping the firm a lot. We've got to turn more of the top notch traffic into more profit margin"

"You're right. Take another deep dive into X, Grok and Search Engine Journal and even YouTube over the next few weeks and get back to us with your plan"

"Yeah boss. And there's also that other shipping industry matter to take a look into, and those web pages on containers, streaming and the wrestling and whatnot are really taking off too son"

"Yeah. strange beast this online media sector at times, Guess it beats digging holes or breaking the back on the farm"

"Never give up mate. You've worked so hard"

"Darn right. Let's get those couple more projects wrapt up for the season and then let's get some saltwater"

"Cheers boss"

"Oh, how's the arm going"

"It's on the mend. Ramping up the rehab and reps. Gotta get back to the gym and training"

"Yeah, hey, see you at that beach gym set-up too"

"Yeah, but take it easy ok. A staged approach is the go"

"See you in 10" ...

Combat Sports Week

WWE Raw
November 11, 2024
Grand Rapids, Michigan

WWE NXT
November 12,, 2024
Orlando, Florida

WWE SmackDown
November 15, 2024
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson
Netflix - Most Valuable Promotions
November 15, 2024
Arlington, Texas

UFC 309
November 16, 2024
New York City, New York

Mr. McMahon

Mr. McMahon Doc Series Is an Unflinching Portrait of WWE Founder’s Legacy
“The goal was to pull back the curtain and reveal the true Vince McMahon.”

Women's Wrestling

Combat Sports

Combat Sports Week, Weekend And Months Ahead