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Combat Sports

Boxing Under The Media Watercooler

A Most Eventful Few Months For Boxing Promoters, Streamers/Broadcasters and Fight Fans

September 2025

TKO/Zuffa/Sela vs The World ... or collaborating with the combat sports world?!

TKO's/UFC's super-promoter Dana White has been notoriously vocal with his criticisms of the boxing biz world in the past, which makes his newfound involvement in the sport all the more motivating for a promoter as competitive as Eddie Hearn.

"I'm excited to cross swords with Dana," Hearn advised. "There will never be any disrespect, if I'm honest. You're never going to see me slagging him off or talking down about him. I'm excited by the challenge because I think it's a real challenge. I don't expect Dana and TKO to come into boxing and just sit in a corner and deliver some decent numbers for shareholders. I think they're going to want to have a presence and try and dominate the sport. It's the ego that they all are blessed with.

"It's good for me in many ways. ... If he really has ambitions to try and dominate the sport, it is going to be me and him duking it out. I don't think that's bad for boxing, honestly. He probably believes he can dominate boxing, dominate me, dominate everything. And I feel the same. So you've got two guys with a lot of ambition, with deep pockets and big egos. In a pleasant way, let a battle commence."

What may be a potential low blow for the sport, however, are TKO's ongoing attempts to circumvent the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, which has protected fighter rights (to a considerable degree) since its creation in 1999. The act is not perfect, as is the case with most rules/acts, or whatever you want to call it old sport.

Hearn has navigated boxing for decades with the Act in place and not batted much of an eye, so naturally he's dubious or even suspicious, of the intentions White and company have with the newly-introduced Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, a TKO-backed bill which drew extensive criticism at a recent California State Athletic Commission meeting. The answer to that question, Hearn said, will provide clarity about Zuffa Boxing's future and intentions.

Eddie Hearn has some new competition in the boxing world.

This past weekend marked the first event of the long-awaited Zuffa Boxing era, helmed by UFC CEO Dana White and Saudi fight financier Turki Alalshikh. Terence "Bud" Crawford went toe-to-toe with Saul "Canelo" Alvarez to cap off the historic night Saturday in Las Vegas, with Crawford winning a unanimous decision to become undisputed super middleweight champion.

The foray into boxing has been on White's mind for several years, though ultimately it took a partnership with Riyadh Season's Alalshikh to make the ambition a reality. As a result, White and Matchroom Boxing's Hearn have now become rivals of sorts. And while the two powerhouse promoters have long maintained a friendly relationship, things did appear to shift in the lead-up to Crawford vs. Alvarez.

"Our relationship's good," Hearn said of White on "The Ariel Helwani Show." "I've never had any kind of falling out with Dana. I can't stress enough the respect I have for him.

"But you can't expect me, a guy who is extremely competitive, to not want to roll up my sleeves and see who is the best in boxing, because I believe I am the best in boxing. We're the only global promotion company in the world, and I believe I'm head and shoulders above everybody as a promoter. Call that delusion, call that arrogance, or call that the truth. But that's what I truly believe."

White has been notoriously vocal with his criticisms of the boxing world in the past, which makes his newfound involvement in the sport all the more motivating for a promoter as competitive as Hearn.

What may be problematic for the sport, however, are TKO's ongoing attempts to circumvent the Muhammad Ali Boxing Reform Act, which has protected fighter rights since its creation in 1999.

Hearn has navigated boxing for decades with the Act in place and not batted much of an eye, so naturally he's dubious of the intentions White and company have with the newly-introduced Muhammad Ali American Boxing Revival Act, a TKO-backed bill which drew extensive criticism at a recent California State Athletic Commission meeting. The answer to that question, Hearn said, will provide clarity about Zuffa Boxing's future and intentions.

"Why are you trying to get that Act changed or removed?" Hearn said. "The strange thing about that act is that on every [boxing] show, you have to declare to the fighters on the card the revenue of the event, which is quite unique.

"Clearly, there isn't really a problem with that in the boxing world because a significant proportion of the revenue is paid to the athletes. So maybe when there's a bigger TV deal [for TKO], the split of that revenue is not paid accordingly with the tradition of the industry, and I don't think they're going to go with the tradition of the industry. I think they will think that fighters are overpaid because [boxers] are in relation to the UFC and MMA talent."

White has already raised a few eyebrows within boxing circles in the lead-up to Crawford vs. Alvarez, boasting that he's promoted two of the three highest-selling gates in the sport's history between Saturday's event at Allegiant Stadium and the 2017 crossover spectacle between Floyd Mayweather Jr. and Conor McGregor.

While true, Hearn believes the claim to be a bit disingenuous.

"If you really want to come into boxing and call Mayweather-McGregor one of the biggest fights of all time, please. It was an exhibition. That's not a fight," Hearn said. "And by the way, Crawford-Canelo was not Dana White's fight. It was Turki Alalshikh's fight, and [White] was invited to be the promoter. Well done, well played.

"Let's not get it twisted. The work that Turki Alalshikh has done in boxing has paved the way for Canelo-Crawford. Without Turki Alalshikh, Canelo vs. Crawford never would have happened. In fact, it wouldn't have even been a fight that Dana White would have even considered or thought of making. So well done to Dana, well done to TKO. But let's give the credit of Canelo-Crawford to Turki Alalshikh, the man that truly paid up for the fight. The man that truly had the vision for two generational greats to meet in a ring. I didn't believe that fight could get made. He went out and made it."

The partnership between Alalshikh and TKO is an interesting one for Hearn, who's worked extensively alongside the Saudi money man. How will it continue to look? How much input do White and TKO actually have?

From Hearn's experience, the answer to the latter question might not be much.

"Working with Turki Alalshikh is a wild ride," Hearn said. "Dana works at a high level. Mark Shapiro, Nick Khan, all these people — they're very, very good at what they do. They're very smart, but they also like to do what they do and what they want to do. Turki Alalshikh, I'm just being straight, he doesn't really allow you to do what you want to do. He does what he wants to do, and you follow.

"I've learned over the years of working with him, your advice mainly falls on deaf ears. He's a very smart guy, and there's a method to the madness. But the traditional ways of going on sale through tickets or announcing the press conference or even announcing the fights, it's not the traditional way with him. And I think they're going to clash, but money's money, isn't it? It depends if you're prepared to keep your mouth quiet and do as you're told. I am. Are they? That's the difference for me."

All in all, Hearn believes everyone involved with this latest venture is smart, has good contacts and connections, and has the wisdom that guarantees them to succeed, at least to a certain degree.

Yet despite all White has laid out regarding his plans to take over the sport, Hearn isn't concerned with losing his position among the sport's promotional giants.

"I don't mean it disrespectfully when I say I think I'm on another level in boxing," Hearn said. "You can see that on the deliverance. When Dana does his UFC stuff, it's the same kind of passion that I probably have inside for boxing. I can't go into MMA and deliver it in the same way. Whether you think you've got a history in the sport, it's just not the same. It's 24/7, 365 days a year — live, breathe boxing.

"There's nothing I don't know about my fighters' careers. The opponents they've faced. BoxRec is the king of my browser. I've been sitting, watching, learning the sport for 40 years. It's just different."

News

Matchroom: The Greatest Showmen (Currently streaming via Netflix)

Reception

Early reviews praise the series for its gripping portrayal of the Hearns, drawing comparisons to Succession for its family drama and business intrigue, though some note a "hokey" reality-TV flair.

Boxing and sports fans have hailed it as essential viewing for its authentic glimpses into the industry, with one IMDb user calling it "brilliant" for fans of sales, sports, or the Hearns specifically.

Where to Watch

Stream all episodes exclusively on Netflix. A trailer is available on the official Netflix site and Matchroom's YouTube channel for a preview of the "rollercoaster" ride.

Matchroom: The Greatest Showmen is a six-episode sports documentary series that premiered globally on Netflix on September 17, 2025. It offers unprecedented access to the Hearn family and their Essex-based sports promotion empire, Matchroom Sport, which has been a cornerstone of British sporting culture for over four decades. The series highlights the high-stakes world of promoting major events in boxing, darts, snooker, and more, blending family dynamics, business rivalries, and behind-the-scenes drama.

Plot Summary

The documentary follows father-son duo Barry Hearn (Matchroom's founder and president) and Eddie Hearn (CEO of Matchroom Boxing) as they navigate the challenges of expanding their multi-sport promotion company.

Key storylines include: Eddie's intense focus on boxing, including high-profile fights involving clients like Anthony Joshua and Conor Benn (whose career faces uncertainty due to personal and professional hurdles).

Barry's strategies to boost visibility for sports like pool and darts, featuring rising stars such as Luke Littler.
A longstanding family rivalry that escalates both personally and professionally, adding tension to their partnership.

Appearances from other Matchroom stars like Katie Taylor and Ronnie O'Sullivan, showcasing the glamour and grit of the promotion business.

Produced by Box To Box Films (the team behind Formula 1: Drive to Survive and At Home with the Furys), the series mixes raw business insights with personal anecdotes, portraying the Hearns as competitive deal-makers who defy traditional corporate norms.

Cast and Key Figures

Barry Hearn: Founder of Matchroom, OBE recipient, and the patriarch driving the company's global ambitions.
Eddie Hearn: Charismatic CEO, known for blockbuster boxing promotions and his larger-than-life persona.

Guest Appearances: Anthony Joshua, Conor Benn, Luke Littler, Katie Taylor, Ronnie O'Sullivan, and other athletes under Matchroom's umbrella. (Grok)

Combat Sports News

X Delivers KO News For Fight Fans And Media On Deadlines Worldwide: Media Man Group

June 20, 2025

News

UFC Updates: The UFC 317 fight card featuring Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira has been finalized with two new bouts added, as reported on X. Meanwhile, Curtis Blaydes expressed frustration over his upcoming UFC Baku fight against newcomer Rizvan Kuniev, stating it doesn’t advance his career. UFC veteran Paul Craig mentioned he’d consider retirement if not re-signed after fulfilling his contract.

PFL World Tournament: Jena Bishop showcased her BJJ skills, securing a tap-out victory over Ekaterina Shakalova at the 2025 PFL World Tournament 6, highlighting the growing prominence of grappling in MMA.

Vince McMahon’s Combat Sports Venture: Former WWE CEO Vince McMahon reportedly explored acquiring a controlling stake in Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) through his new investment firm, 14TH & I, but discussions with BKFC founder David Feldman fell through.

Combate Female Event: Combate Global hosted an all-women’s MMA event, “Combate Female,” on June 19, 2025, streamed live on YouTube. The main event featured undefeated strawweight Melissa Amaya against Bruna Ellen, emphasizing the rising popularity of women’s MMA.

Conor McGregor Controversy: Conor McGregor is back in the headlines for allegedly striking someone at a nightclub in Ibiza, drawing criticism from fans disappointed by his off-cage behavior.

Boxing Highlights: Jai Opetaia delivered a brutal KO victory over Claudio Squeo on June 8, 2025, likely breaking Squeo’s jaw, retaining his IBF and Ring cruiserweight titles. Separately, Manny Pacquiao is set to end his four-year retirement to join Tim Tszyu’s WBC title fight card in July.

Bare Knuckle Fighting Denied in Perth: The WA Combat Sports Commission rejected an application for Australia’s first bare-knuckle fighting event in Perth, citing concerns over safety and long-term brain damage risks, despite protests from fighters like Bec Rawlings.

Social Impact of Combat Sports: Research from the University of Wolverhampton suggests combat sports can reduce youth violence by teaching discipline and emotional control, presenting a counterintuitive approach to intervention programs.

These updates reflect the dynamic nature of combat sports, from high-profile fights and controversies to regulatory and societal discussions.

News

X wins Media Man 'Social Media Platform Of The Month' award; Runner-up: YouTube

WWE wins Media Man 'Wrestling Promotion Of The Month'

UFC wins Media Man 'MMA Promotion Of The Month' award

Lucha Libre AAA Worldwide wins Media Man 'Lucha Libre' Promotion Of The Month' award; Runner-up: CMLL

Everlast wins Media Man 'Sports gear Brand Of The Month'

The Sports Prophets wins Media Man 'Sports Betting Brand Of The Month' award

World Surfing League wins Media Man 'Sports Lifestyle Brand Of The Month' award

NRL wins Media Man 'Australian Sports Brand Of The Month' award; Runner-up: AFL

Combat Sports News

UFC 317 Update: Manel Kape was pulled from UFC 317 due to injury, with Brandon Royval now facing Joshua Van on short notice at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on June 28, 2025.

UFC Vegas 107 Fallout: The main event between Maycee Barber and Erin Blanchfield was canceled moments before the fight due to Barber suffering a possible seizure. The incident raised concerns about fighter health and safety protocols.

Jon Jones Controversy: UFC heavyweight champion Jon Jones faces allegations of inappropriate behavior toward a male commissioner, as reported by referee "Big" John McCarthy. This has sparked discussions within the MMA community

.Antitrust Lawsuit Against UFC: Veteran MMA fighter Phil Davis has filed a new antitrust lawsuit against the UFC, alleging the promotion’s practices harm non-contracted fighters by maintaining a monopoly. This follows ongoing legal scrutiny of UFC’s business model

.Bare-Knuckle Boxing Denied in Perth: The WA Combat Sports Commission rejected an application for Australia’s first bare-knuckle boxing event in Perth, citing health concerns, including long-term brain damage risks. The decision drew criticism from fighters like Bec Rawlings, who called it “hypocritical.

”Dirty Boxing Championship (DBX 2):

Jon Jones and Mike Perry are promoting DBX 2, set for June 14, 2025, in Miami. The event promises high-intensity striking with a unique rule set, aiming to disrupt traditional combat sports formats.

PFL Pacific Launch in Australia: The Professional Fighters League (PFL) announced its expansion to Australia with PFL Pacific, to be broadcast on Stan Sport and Nine. This marks a significant step for MMA accessibility in the region.

Boxing Event Controversy: UFC star Dan Hooker’s promotion of a boxing tournament, “King of the Streets,” in New Zealand has been criticized as “thuggery” due to its reported ties to an online gambling site

.Boxing Safety Concerns: As combat sports grow in popularity, there’s increasing focus on minimizing head trauma. Studies, like one by Central Queensland University, highlight the risks of even low-level head impacts in boxing.

Upcoming Boxing Fights: Key matches this week include Keyshawn Davis vs. Edwin De Los Santos (WBO Lightweight), Fabio Wardley vs. Justis Huni (Heavyweight), Junto Nakatani vs. Ryosuke Nishida (Bantamweight), and Jai Opetaia vs. Claudio Squeo (Cruiserweight).

These stories reflect the dynamic and often controversial nature of combat sports, from fighter safety and legal battles to new promotions and events.

Here’s the latest pay-per-view (PPV) news based on recent developments:

AEW Double or Nothing 2025: All Elite Wrestling’s (AEW) recent PPV event, Double or Nothing, held in Glendale, Arizona, sparked discussions about its length. Reports indicate that AEW wrestlers and staff, as cited by Bryan Alvarez on Wrestling Observer Live, unanimously felt the event was too long. This sentiment was echoed backstage, with suggestions that some matches could have been saved for weekly TV to streamline the show.

AEW’s increasing number of PPVs, including new events like Dynasty and WrestleDream, has reignited debates about event duration.

Additionally, AEW’s next PPV, All In, is set to compete directly with WWE’s NXT Battleground on July 12, with AEW reportedly outselling and outperforming NXT’s recent event.

WWE Evolution Returns: WWE announced the return of its women-exclusive PPV, Evolution, after a seven-year hiatus.

The event, first held in October 2018, is scheduled to take place the night after Saturday Night’s Main Event at the same venue.

Fans and WWE’s women’s division have long awaited this sequel, highlighting the demand for women-focused wrestling events.UFC Summer Slate:

The UFC’s upcoming PPV events through August 2025 are generating buzz. MMA Fighting highlighted UFC 317, part of International Fight Week, as a standout, featuring matchups like Joe Pyfer vs. a yet-to-be-named opponent and Mario Bautista vs. Patchy Mix.

The discussion focuses on which event offers the most value for the $80 price tag, with UFC 317 being a top contender due to its high-profile fights.

Champions League Final PPV: The recent UEFA Champions League final between Paris St-Germain and Inter Milan (5-0 win for PSG) was available via PPV on platforms like ZAIKO in Japan, alongside live viewings at venues like AEON Cinema and select pubs.

This reflects the growing trend of major soccer events being offered on PPV platforms globally.

STARDOM PPV Announcement: World Wonder Ring Stardom announced a PPV event for May 31, 2025, titled “Natsu & Saori – We’re Here. It’s Here. 10th Anniversary,” at Ota Ward General Gymnasium in Japan. Priced at ¥4,620 (tax included), the event will also offer catch-up streaming until June 6, 2025.

These updates cover major PPV events across wrestling, MMA, and soccer, with a focus on recent or upcoming shows.

News

UFC open to ending the PPV model? Mark Shapiro hints at potential changes in UFC’s pay-per-view structure, emphasizing flexibility across platforms.??

March 4, 2024

"Yeah, it's interesting. I mean, certainly, life has changed on the PPV front. In the old days, the cable consortium and DirecTV were major platforms for PPV. Look, it works for us, but we are super flexible—linear broadcast, streaming, pay-per-view, or not PPV.

Remember, we own Fight Pass, which is our proprietary platform. It’s designed for the hardcore combat sports fan, featuring a lot of MMA, wrestling, jiu-jitsu, and karate. It’s a strong platform on its own, and we charge a monthly and annual fee. We like having it to ourselves; we like the proprietary nature of it. But, like you saw with the WWE Network years ago with Vince McMahon, if it makes sense to fold it into a larger deal, we're open to that too.

So, it’s still early stages. We want to be a good partner, we want to listen to everyone, we want to be prudent, we want to be patient—but we definitely want to explore all options so that we can bring our audience, our athletes, our fans, and our shareholders a maximized deal."

(Via Morgan Stanley Technology, Media & Telecom Conference)

Formula One

Formula One (Wikipedia)

Formula One YouTube

Australian Grand Prix (Wikipedia)

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (Wikipedia)

Las Vegas Grand Prix (Wikipedia)

Video

F1 | Official Trailer

Meet APXGP. Sonny Hayes and Joshua Pearce. F1, only in theatres June 2025

Formula One

F1 Drivers: 2025

1. Lando Norris - McClaren - 44 points
2. Max Verstappen - Red Bull Racing - 36 points
3. George Russell - Mercedes - 35 points
4. Oscar Piastri - McClaren - 34 points
5. Kini Antonelli - Mercedes - 22 points
6. Alexander Albon - Williams - 16 points
7. Esteban Icon - Hass - 10 points
8. Lance Stroll - Aston Martin - 10 points
9. Lewis Hamilton - Ferrari - 9 points
10. Charles Leclerc - Ferrari - 8 points
11. Nico Hulkenberg - Kick Sauber - 6 points
12. Oliver Bearman - Hass - 4 points
13. Yuki Tsunida - Racing Bulls - 3 points
14. Carlos Sainz - Williams - 1 point
15. Isack Hadjar - Racing Bulls - Nil
16. Pierre Gasly - Alpine - Nil
17. Liam Lawson - Red Bull Racing - Nil
18. Jack Doohan - Alpine - Nil
19. Gabriel Bortoleto - Kick Sauber - Nil
20. Fernando Alonso - Aston Martin - Nil

(Image: Formula One) with Media Man editing

News

Chinese Grand Prix

Motorsport News via Grok

Formula One

Season Dynamics: The 2024 F1 season has seen a dramatic shift from what was expected to be a predictable year dominated by Red Bull to one where multiple teams are now in contention. This change has been attributed to various teams catching up to Red Bull's performance, making the championship battle more exciting.

Team and Driver Updates:

Red Bull: Despite starting strong, their lead has waned, with pressure building on Max Verstappen. There's talk about how Red Bull might support Sergio Perez more effectively, indicating some internal strategy shifts or support mechanisms for their drivers.

Mercedes: They've been chasing performance, particularly with tyre temperature issues. George Russell's disqualification at Spa due to his car being underweight was a significant blow, but Lewis Hamilton has reportedly benefited more from the team's recent car developments.

Ferrari: There's speculation about their 2025 car development being tailored towards Lewis Hamilton, suggesting potential driver changes or strategic team directions.

McLaren: They've had a surprising competitiveness this season, with discussions around their strategy decisions and potential upgrades.

Haas: There's mention of Esteban Ocon possibly moving to Haas, suggesting team changes for the future.

Regulation and Aero Developments: There's a debate on the 2026 aero regulations, with some drivers like Ocon advocating for more restrictive rules to improve racing, similar to other series.

Future Races and Calendar: There's talk of a potential Thailand Grand Prix, and Germany's circuits are hoping for a rotation scheme from 2026, indicating changes or additions to the F1 calendar.

Fan and Community Engagement: From posts on X, there's active discussion about the current break in the season, upcoming races, and fan support for drivers like Lewis Hamilton, indicating strong community engagement around F1 events.

Technical Innovations: Fernando Alonso mentioned finding a way to interpret data more precisely, which could lead to aerodynamic improvements without unintended side effects, showcasing the continuous technical evolution in F1.

This overview reflects a season where strategic, technical, and driver performances are closely interlinked, creating a dynamic and unpredictable championship race.

Media Man: Pumped for the upcoming season of F1.

News

Formula 1® and LVMH announce historic 10-year Global Partnership
02 October 2024

As Formula 1® prepares to celebrate its 75th anniversary in 2025, it was announced today that LVMH will become a Global Partner from 2025 in a new 10-year agreement. As part of the deal, several of LVMH’s iconic Maisons will be involved in the partnership, including Louis Vuitton, Moët Hennessy and TAG Heuer.

The unprecedented agreement between the world leader in luxury and the pinnacle of motorsport will launch at the beginning of next season at a time of incredible ongoing popularity, cultural relevance, and overall excitement for Formula 1 as a bridge between global sport and entertainment.

At the crossroads of the LVMH Group’s values of creativity and excellence with Formula 1’s innovation and high-performance, the partnership will bring together the best of these two worlds and provide unparalleled experiences combining thrilling sport and elegant art-de-vivre, wheel-to-wheel racing and time-tested craftmanship, for enthusiasts, fans and clients.

LVMH and its teams will share their exceptional savoir-faire and entrepreneurial spirit with the world of Formula 1 through hospitality, bespoke activations, limited editions and outstanding content.

From the birth of Formula 1 in 1950 through to the modern day, LVMH and its Maisons have been a part of the sport. With this new partnership both Formula 1 and LVMH are excited to write new chapters of this incredible story, with each Maison involved bringing its unique expertise, heritage, and energy to heighten the collaboration.

Further details of the partnership will be announced in early 2025.

Greg Maffei, President and CEO, Liberty Media, said:

“LVMH and Formula 1 are two global brands that consistently push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, values core to Liberty Media. We were thrilled to work with one of the LVMH Maisons during the Las Vegas Grand Prix last year, and to now expand our relationship with the Group as they become a Global Partner. The opportunity to scale our commercial arrangements is emblematic of the vision we have for Formula 1 as the business continues to grow its platform. We look forward to working with Bernard and Frédéric Arnault in the years to come.”

Bernard Arnault, Chairman and CEO of LVMH Group, added:

“The people, the quest for excellence and the passion for innovation are at the heart of the activity of our Maisons and Formula 1. In motorsport as in fashion, watchmaking or wines and spirits, every detail counts on the path to success. Both in our workshops and on circuits around the world, it is this incessant search to break boundaries that inspires our vision, and this is the meaning that we want to bring to this great and unique partnership between Formula 1 and our Group.”

Stefano Domenicali, President and CEO, Formula 1, continued:

“Our sport is founded on the relentless pursuit of excellence, a value that also lies at the heart of LVMH, so I am delighted to announce this historic partnership will begin in 2025. As Formula 1 continues its global growth, attracting new and more diverse audiences, the strength and breadth of LVMH makes it the perfect partner for us to work with as we look to continually enhance the experience of our fans and the heritage of our incredible sport. This is a landmark partnership for both companies, and I would like to thank Bernard and Frédéric Arnault for their vision and commitment to bring this to life.”

Frédéric Arnault, CEO of LVMH Watches, concluded:

“In recent years, Formula 1 has truly become one of the most desirable sports in the world. It’s a vibrant discipline that echoes a number of values that are very important to us, such as innovation, team spirit and performance. For many years, several of our Maisons have also chosen to invest in Formula 1, whether to create unique experiences or for moments of celebration. With our Maisons and the expertise of our Group, we want to further grow this experiential dimension that Formula 1 provides all over the world. We are only at the very beginning of this partnership, but the seasons that await us promise to be extraordinary.”

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)

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Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson | Official Trailer | Netflix

Jake “El Gallo” Paul faces Mike Tyson, the Baddest Man on the Planet, in the highly-anticipated fight the world’s been waiting for. Live on Netflix. Friday, November 15th at 8pm ET | 5pm PT.

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Katie Taylor vs. Amanda Serrano Mario Barrios vs. Abel Ramos Neeraj Goyat vs. Whindersson Nunes

Watch on Netflix: https://netflix.com/title/81764952

About Netflix: Netflix is one of the world's leading entertainment services, with 278 million paid memberships in over 190 countries enjoying TV series, films and games across a wide variety of genres and languages. Members can play, pause and resume watching as much as they want, anytime, anywhere, and can change their plans at any time.

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson | Official Trailer | Netflix

Jake Paul battles Mike Tyson as they headline this must-see boxing mega-event streaming live in five languages from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. (Credit: Netflix)

BAD BOYS COLLIDE IN TEXAS on NOVEMBER 15, 2024

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson Is Officially One Month Away
https://netflix.com/tudum/articles/jake-paul-vs-mike-tyson-live-release-date-news

It’s all happening: For the first time ever, Netflix and Most Valuable Promotions (MVP) are teaming up for a boxing mega-event headlined by Jake “El Gallo de Dorado” Paul versus The Baddest Man on the Planet, Mike Tyson. The event will stream live on Netflix from the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Nov. 15. A rematch between undisputed super lightweight champion Katie Taylor (23-1, 6 KOs) and unified featherweight champion Amanda “The Real Deal” Serrano (47-2-1, 31 KOs) is also rescheduled for the same day in the co-main event. Explore more on the main, co-main, and undercards below; win tickets to the fight here; and be sure to tune in on Netflix on Nov. 15 at 8:00 p.m./5:00 p.m. ET to watch. (Credit: Netflix)

Media Man: Pumped. KO excitement and action. What the world is talking about and will continue to for quite some time. All power to both fighters. The fans win!

The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox | Sneak Peek #2 | Netflix

https://youtube.com/watch?v=b1zgshydEVc

Netflix

The larger-than-life legend of David “Big Papi” Ortiz began on July 4, 2003, when he homered twice at Yankee Stadium. Relive that moment–and many others–from the historic rivalry between the Boston Red Sox and New York Yankees in THE COMEBACK: 2004 BOSTON RED SOX.

This definitive docuseries chronicles one of the greatest comebacks in sports history when the Boston Red Sox overcame a 3-0 series deficit to defeat the archrival New York Yankees en route to winning their first World Series title in 86 years and breaking the infamous "Curse of the Bambino.” (Netflix)

Watch on Netflix: https://netflix.com/title/81721571

News

Netflix TUDUM

Follow the Red Sox to the World Series in The Comeback: 2004 Boston Red Sox
https://netflix.com/tudum/articles/the-comeback-2004-red-sox-release-date-trailer-news

Media Man: Netflix continues with the big hits and home runs!

Sports And Entertainment Broadcasting News

Riyadh Season signs DAZN deal

October 9, 2024

Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the General Entertainment Authority, has announced that Riyadh Season has entered into a multi-year partnership with DAZN, which will see the sports entertainment platform become the official exclusive worldwide and co-exclusive MENA broadcaster of all of its sports and entertainment events.

Building on its successful promotion and delivery of the 2023 edition of Riyadh Season, DAZN will be a host broadcaster for all events, with a commitment to enhancing the proposition with “significant investment in production and innovation”, helping to further develop the Season’s reputation for staging events and experiences with some of the biggest names from entertainment and sport.

Riyadh Season content will appear on the front page of the DAZN app globally, featuring interactive features, while fans will also be able to access documentaries, news, trailers, interviews, as well as buy tickets and merchandise directly on the platform.

In addition, DAZN will be the global distributor and exclusive OTT broadcaster of Riyadh Season’s boxing events for outside the MENA region and collaborate on innovative features for boxing fans.

Streaming Industry News

Olympics fuels US TV viewership in August

September 2024

US Television viewing in August was boosted by the 2024 Paris Olympics, according to The Gauge report from Nielsen. The Summer Games had the most notable impact on broadcast viewership, notching growth levels more typical for September with increases of 8 per cent versus July and 11.7 per cent year over year. The broadcast category ultimately accounted for 22 per cent of TV in August, and when looking week-by-week, its share peaked during the first week of the interval with 24.3 per cent of TV.

On the streaming side, Peacock offered broad Olympics coverage to complement linear offerings, the success of which was demonstrated by a monthly viewership increase of 39 per cent for the streaming service overall, and nearly double the amount of viewers aged 35-49. These factors helped lift Peacock from a 1.5 per cent share of TV in July to a new platform-best 2.1 per cent share in August (+0.6 pts.). It also makes Peacock only the third streaming platform this year to record a 0.5 point share increase or more on a monthly basis, in addition to YouTube (February and July) and Netflix (June).

Olympics programming on NBC drew millions of viewers in both primetime and daytime windows. Across all of NBC’s Olympics telecasts that aired during the August interval, 32 of them totaled more than 5 million viewers, and 17 garnered more than 10 million viewers. Moreover, Olympics telecasts on NBC notched the top 19 broadcast telecasts of the month. Leading the charge with 17.9 million viewers was NBC’s July 30th primetime programme that highlighted Simone Biles and the US women’s gymnastics team winning gold in the team competition, as well as four American medals in swimming and the dramatic bronze-medal victory by the US women’s rugby team.
From a total television usage perspective, August levels were even with July. However, a year-over-year comparison revealed a larger imbalance, as usage this month was up 3.5 per cent versus August 2023. A notable year-over-year difference was also evident among broadcast program genres, with broadcast sports programme viewership up 239 per cent over August 2023, further illustrating the impact of the Games on the overall TV landscape.

Like the broadcast category, cable also exhibited a peak viewing week that coincided with a major TV event. The Democratic National Convention aired for four nights across multiple networks during the final week of the August interval, and during that week, cable’s share of television climbed to 27.9 per cent. The DNC also contributed to the top cable programmes in August, with MSNBC receiving most of the benefits. MSNBC owned the top 11 cable telecasts of the month, and 14 of the top 15. ESPN’s coverage of the Florida State vs Georgia Tech football matchup snagged the 12th spot. In the end, cable viewing was down 2 per cent from July and finished the month with 26.3 per cent of TV.

After several consecutive remarkable months, the streaming category had a softer month in August from a content perspective, but remained the clear winner overall with 41 per cent of TV (down 1 per cent, -0.4 pts.). Only one original programme broke into the month’s top 10 – The Umbrella Academy on Netflix totaled 3.9 billion viewing minutes – while the rest went to acquired titles including Prison Break, which led the way with 5.4 billion minutes across Netflix and Paramount+. Bluey on Disney+ generated over 4 billion viewing minutes to secure the second most watched streaming title this month. The animated Australian import helped drive an 8 per cent increase for the streamer, as Disney+ reached a platform high of 2.3 per cent of TV in August. Some of the 8 per cent boost can also be attributed to Hulu content available within the Disney+ platform to certain package subscribers.

YouTube won the month among streaming services for the 19th consecutive interval, posting another category and platform best in August with 10.6 per cent of TV. Compared with August 2023, YouTube has the largest year-over-year difference in share for any streaming platform and has added 1.5 points to its share of TV (9.1 per cent to 10.6 per cent). Meanwhile, the overall streaming category has gained 2.7 points YoY and is up 11 per cent versus August 2023. (Wires)

Pro Wrestling, Combat Sports And Motorsport; Fans, Agencies And Publishers Up To Speed via X And Elon Musk's Grok

News

Giulia's WWE Debut at NXT No Mercy

Giulia, a prominent wrestler from Stardom, made her debut in WWE's NXT at the NXT No Mercy event, creating significant buzz among fans and commentators. Her entrance was marked by a dramatic confrontation with Roxanne Perez, the NXT Women's Champion, setting the stage for future high-profile matches. Giulia's debut was praised for maintaining her star status and effectively transitioning her unique wrestling style to an American audience. The event highlighted WWE's strategy to integrate international talent, with many expressing optimism about Giulia's impact on NXT's women's division. The NXT No Mercy event was described as a success, featuring other notable moments but with Giulia's arrival being a standout, signaling her as a pivotal figure in NXT's future. (Grok)

News

UFC 308: Co-Main Event Confusion

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event #UFC308, scheduled for Abu Dhabi, initially caused confusion among fans regarding its co-main event. Originally, Robert Whittaker was set to fight Khamzat Chimaev in a five-round bout, but a UFC post suggested a change to Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov as the co-main event. This led to speculation that Whittaker vs. Chimaev might not proceed or could be reduced to three rounds due to concerns over Chimaev's stamina in longer fights. However, the UFC clarified that Whittaker vs. Chimaev remains the co-main event, and the earlier post was a mistake. Discussions have focused on Chimaev's ability to endure five rounds, with some suggesting he might struggle past the initial rounds. There's also anticipation about the fight's outcome, with potential implications for future title shots, particularly if Chimaev wins.

Whittaker vs Chimaev: Co-main Event Changes

News

The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) event #UFC308 in Abu Dhabi saw significant changes to its card structure, particularly involving the fight between Robert Whittaker and Khamzat Chimaev. Initially scheduled as a five-round co-main event, the UFC adjusted the fight to three rounds and removed it from the co-main event status, replacing it with Cyril Gane vs. Alexander Volkov. This decision sparked discussions about potential favoritism towards Chimaev, who is perceived to have an advantage in shorter bouts. Despite the confusion and initial reports suggesting the fight might be off the card entirely, the UFC clarified that the Whittaker vs. Chimaev fight would proceed but not as the co-main event, indicating ongoing adjustments by the UFC in managing its event structure and fighter matchups. (Grok)

News

UFC Adjusts Chimaev vs Whittaker to 3 Rounds

The UFC has made changes to the upcoming UFC 308 event, where the fight between Robert Whittaker and Khamzat Chimaev was originally scheduled as a 5-round co-main event but has been adjusted to 3 rounds and is no longer the co-main event. This decision has sparked discussions among fans and analysts, with many speculating that the change to a 3-round fight favors Chimaev, who is known for his stamina issues in longer bouts. Some fans and commentators expressed frustration, suggesting that this move might be an attempt by the UFC to protect Chimaev or increase his chances of winning by reducing the fight duration. Others debated the implications of this change on the fighters' performances and the fairness of the match-up, especially in the context of Chimaev's previous fights and his path to a potential title shot. (Grok)

News

Inoue Defends Super Bantamweight Title

Naoya Inoue, the reigning and unbeaten world super-bantamweight champion from Japan, is set to defend his titles against TJ Doheny from Ireland in a highly anticipated match at Tokyo's Ariake Arena. This fight, scheduled for September 3, 2024, has captured significant attention due to Inoue's formidable reputation and Doheny's recent winning streak, aiming for what could be one of the greatest upsets in boxing by an Irish fighter. Both fighters successfully made weight, with Inoue at 122lbs and Doheny at 121.5lbs, indicating their readiness for the bout. The event not only highlights the clash of skill and determination between the two but also underscores the global appeal of boxing, drawing interest from fans and analysts who are keen to see if Inoue's dominance will persist or if Doheny can achieve a monumental upset. (Grok)

News

Louis Tomlinson at Monza GP Ferrari Garage

Louis Tomlinson attended the Monza Grand Prix as a special guest, where he toured the Ferrari garage and was photographed wearing a Ferrari headset and Palmes Olde Shorts in Green. His presence at the event, including the after-party, reflects his ongoing interest in sports, following his appearances at various high-profile sporting events like the UFC Finale in Las Vegas, the Australian Open, and the Euros in Germany. During the Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc won the race for Ferrari, marking a significant victory as he started from P4 and did not have the fastest car. This win was celebrated widely, with Leclerc featuring on the front pages of Italian sports newspapers and receiving congratulations from competitors like Oracle Red Bull Racing. The victory added to the excitement of the event, which Louis Tomlinson was part of, highlighting his involvement in high-profile sports culture. (Grok)

News

Louis Tomlinson's Ferrari Tour at Monza GP

Louis Tomlinson attended the Monza Grand Prix in Italy, where he was seen exploring the Ferrari garage and participating in the after-party. During the event, he was photographed wearing a Ferrari headset and met with F1 driver Charles Leclerc. This appearance is part of Louis's recent engagements in various sports events, showcasing his interest beyond his music career. Meanwhile, Charles Leclerc won the race for Ferrari, marking a significant victory starting from the fourth position on the grid, without having the fastest car. This win was celebrated widely, with Leclerc featuring on the front pages of Italian sports newspapers and receiving congratulations from competitors. (Grok)

News

Leclerc's Triumphant Win at Monza

Charles Leclerc achieved a remarkable victory for Ferrari at the 2024 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, starting from the fourth position on the grid despite not having the fastest car. This win marked Ferrari as the third different team to win in as many races, underlining the season's competitive nature. Leclerc's triumph was widely celebrated, with Italian sports newspapers and fans expressing their joy. The race also featured Lando Norris setting the DHL Fastest Lap on the final lap, continuing his streak. Additionally, celebrity Louis Tomlinson was present at the event, engaging with the Ferrari team and attending the after-party, highlighting his interest in motorsports. (Grok)

News

Leclerc's Monza Mastery

Charles Leclerc secured a remarkable victory for Ferrari at the 2024 Italian Grand Prix in Monza, starting from fourth on the grid and outperforming competitors despite not having the fastest car. This win marked Ferrari as the third different team to win in as many races, highlighting a diverse season in Formula 1. The race was particularly significant as it was Leclerc's second win at Monza, echoing his 2019 triumph. Meanwhile, McLaren hinted at a strategic shift, considering team orders to support Lando Norris in the championship race, indicating a change in their approach to team dynamics. Celebrity Louis Tomlinson was also spotted at the event, engaging with the Ferrari team and attending the after-party, showcasing his ongoing interest in sports events. (Grok)

News

McLaren Team Orders and Norris' Championship Odds

McLaren is contemplating the use of team orders, as indicated by Andrea Stella, amidst the ongoing 2024 Formula 1 season. This comes at a time when Lando Norris is trailing Max Verstappen in the championship, with Norris needing to overcome a significant points deficit. Despite McLaren's strategic considerations, there's debate among fans and analysts about whether Norris should be prioritized over his teammate Oscar Piastri, especially given Piastri's competitive performances this season. Meanwhile, Max Verstappen's recent performance has been less dominant compared to previous years, with Red Bull not securing a race win in the last six events. The discussion also touches on historical data and comparisons, highlighting the challenges Norris faces in catching up with Verstappen, who seems poised to clinch his fourth championship despite the recent dip in form. (Grok)

News

McLaren Backs Norris for F1 Title

McLaren, a leading Formula 1 team, is contemplating the use of team orders to support Lando Norris in his pursuit of the 2024 F1 Drivers' Championship, following a lackluster performance at the Italian Grand Prix where Norris led no laps despite starting from pole position. This strategic shift, which involves potentially favoring Norris over his teammate Oscar Piastri, has sparked discussions about fairness and team dynamics. Piastri, who has shown significant improvement this season, might be sidelined in this new strategy, causing debate among fans and analysts about the implications for team morale and competition. The decision reflects McLaren's urgency to maximize opportunities, especially against rivals like Red Bull, in upcoming races where conditions might not favor their competitors. (Grok)

News

Pacheco Stops Sulecki with Body Shot

Diego Pacheco, an undefeated boxer with a record of 22-0, achieved a significant victory by defeating Maciej Sulecki in a boxing match held in Carson, CA, on September 1, 2024. Pacheco won by a knockout in the sixth round with a powerful body shot, marking the first time Sulecki had been stopped in his career. This win has elevated Pacheco to the number one contender for Canelo Alvarez's super middleweight world title, with expectations that the World Boxing Organization (WBO) might mandate this fight in 2025. In the same event, Eduardo Nunez also secured a victory, stopping Miguel Marriaga in the sixth round, thereby maintaining his status as the IBF 130 mandatory challenger. (Grok)

News

Marquez Celebrates First Ducati Victory

Marc Marquez celebrated his first victory with Ducati at the Aragon Grand Prix, marking a significant milestone in his racing career. This win ended a 1,043-day victory drought for Marquez, his last win being with Honda in 2021. Here are the key points from his triumphant return:

Performance: Marquez dominated the weekend at MotorLand Aragon, leading from start to finish in both the sprint race and the main race. He set the fastest lap times in practice sessions, secured pole position, and clinched the victory, showcasing an unchallenged performance.

Emotional Victory: The win was particularly emotional for Marquez, who dedicated it to those who supported him through his challenging times, including multiple surgeries and a career-threatening injury. This victory was not just a personal triumph but also a testament to his resilience and skill.

Technical Details: Riding for Gresini Racing on a Ducati, Marquez utilized the MICHELIN Power Slicks, opting for medium compounds for both the front and rear in the race due to the track conditions. His performance highlighted the effectiveness of these tires under the slippery conditions at Aragon.

Championship Impact: While this victory doesn't directly impact the championship standings significantly, it brings Marquez closer in points, reducing the gap to the leaders. However, it's more about his personal comeback story and the confidence boost for his future with Ducati.

Public Reaction: The victory has been celebrated widely on platforms like X, with users and official MotoGP accounts highlighting Marquez's return to form, his first win on a Ducati, and his first-ever win in the new Sprint format introduced in MotoGP.

This victory not only marks Marquez's first win on a Ducati but also signifies his return to the top step of the podium after overcoming numerous physical and professional challenges, making it one of the most talked-about moments in recent MotoGP history. (Grok)

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