MMA opinion: One promotion, one story - Exploring the UFC’s narrative machine
The UFC is one of the biggest and most lucrative brands on the planet - and its press machine is well oiled thanks to the all-seeing eye of Dana White.
Here, Sports News Blitz writer Ollie Hughes takes a look at how the UFC controls the narrative better than any other sports league.
MMA news: Alex Pereira reveals two fights at heavyweight he wants in 2026
After reclaiming his light-heavyweight title in the rematch against Magomed Ankalaev back in October, Alex Pereira has his sights set on a historic move to heavyweight in 2026.
Pereira, 38, has already left an unforgettable imprint on the sport of MMA since his UFC debut back in 2021.
The hard-hitting Brazilian has held titles at both middleweight and twice at light-heavyweight despite having just 12 fights in the UFC, with seven of those wins coming against either former champions or fighters who would go on to hold UFC gold.
However, after effectively clearing out the light-heavyweight division, Pereira has his sights on two fights in particular that would tempt him to move up to heavyweight, reports Sports News Blitz’s Niall Togher.
MMA news: Paddy Pimblett lays out mega three-fight plan for 2026
Paddy Pimblett has the opportunity to be the fourth English fighter in MMA history to hold a version of the UFC title.
In this article, Sports News Blitz writer Niall Togher looks at Pimblett’s ambitious roadmap as he targets championship gold and a blockbuster year ahead.
Alexander Volkanovski reacts as controversial Diego Lopes rematch confirmed for UFC 325
Alexander Volkanovski is set to defend his featherweight title against Diego Lopes in Sydney at UFC 325 on January 31, 2026.
The pair initially met back in April 2025 at UFC 314, where Volkanovski defeated Lopes by unanimous decision to claim the belt that was recently vacated by Ilia Topuria at the time.
It was arguably the feel-good moment of the year, as a 36-year-old Volkanovski snapped his two-fight losing streak against all odds to become a two-time champion at 145 pounds.
However, the decision for the Australian to rematch Lopes for the first title defence of his second reign has sparked controversy within the MMA community, with Volkanovski having his say on his upcoming bout.
Here, Sports News Blitz's Niall Togher breaks down the reaction from both men and the controversy surrounding the rematch.
MMA news: ‘I can’t be in that position’ - Dana White reveals why Jon Jones will not return at UFC White House card
Dana White has again poured cold water on a potential Jon Jones return at the highly anticipated UFC event at the White House, scheduled for 2026.
Jones, 38, announced his retirement from MMA back in June despite having an offer on the table to defend his UFC heavyweight title against the then-interim champion, Tom Aspinall.
Sports News Blitz’s Niall Togher gives his reaction to White’s recent comments on Jones’ potential return at the UFC White House card.
MMA news: Ex-UFC champ Michael Bisping reveals one positive Jack Della Maddalena can take from loss to Islam Makhachev
Jack Della Maddalena’s brief reign as welterweight champion came to an end at UFC 322 after he was handily beaten by Islam Makhachev.
Makhachev successfully captured a title in another weight class after vacating his lightweight strap earlier this year to further cement himself as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time.
Despite the Australian having limited success during the contest, former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping reveals the one positive Della Maddalena can take away from his performance this past weekend.
Sports News Blitz’s Niall Togher reacts to Bisping’s comments on Della Maddalena’s potential return to form after his UFC 322 loss.