Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev made weight Friday for UFC 311, but challenger Arman Tsaruky...

<p>Lightweight champion Islam Makhachev made weight Friday for UFC 311, but challenger Arman Tsarukyan never reached the scale, withdrawing with a last-minute back injury.</p><p>Fellow lightweight Renato Moicano will instead <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3186093" href="https://thescore.com/news/3186093">face</a> Makhachev in the main event Saturday at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles. Moicano weighed in at 155 pounds before the UFC announced any changes. His original opponent, Beneil Dariush, also came in at 155 pounds but will no longer compete.</p><p>The co-headliners, bantamweight champion Merab Dvalishvili and challenger Umar Nurmagomedov, were on point as they stepped on the scale, making their title fight official.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here are the UFC 311 weigh-in results and the updated card:</p><h3>Main card (ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Islam Makhachev (154.5) vs. Renato Moicano (155)</li>
<li>Merab Dvalishvili (134) vs. Umar Nurmagomedov (135)</li>
<li>Jiri Prochazka (204.5) vs. Jamahal Hill (205.5)</li>
<li>Jailton Almeida (235) vs. Serghei Spivac (233)</li>
<li>Kevin Holland (183.5) vs. Reinier de Ridder (184.5)</li>
</ul><h3>Preliminary card (ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Payton Talbott (135.5) vs. Raoni Barcelos (135.5)</li>
<li>Bogdan Guskov (205.5) vs. Billy Elekana (200)</li>
<li>Zachary Reese (185.5) vs. Azamat Bekoev (185.5)</li>
<li>Grant Dawson (156) vs. Diego Ferreira (156)</li>
</ul><h3>Early preliminary card (ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Karol Rosa (135.5) vs. Ailin Perez (135)</li>
<li>Rinya Nakamura (135.5) vs. Muin Gafurov (136)</li>
<li>Ricky Turcios (136) vs. Benardo Sopaj (135)</li>
<li>Tagir Ulanbekov (125.5) vs. Clayton Carpenter (125.5)</li>
</ul>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 16: Arman Tsarukyan of Georgia is seen on stage during the UFC 311 press conference at Intuit Dome on January 16, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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UFC 311 weigh-in results: Tsarukyan absent, gives up title shot

The UFC is looking to book former welterweight champion Leon Edwards against rising contender Jac...

<p>The UFC is looking to book former welterweight champion Leon Edwards against rising contender Jack Della Maddalena in the main event of Fight Night in London on March 22, <a href="https://www.mmafighting.com/2025/1/12/24342521/leon-edwards-vs-jack-della-maddalena-targeted-for-ufc-london-main-event-in-march">MMA Fighting's Damon Martin</a> reports.</p><p>Edwards hasn't competed since dropping the 170-pound title to Belal Muhammad in July. He successfully defended the championship twice before giving it up, defeating Kamaru Usman in a trilogy bout and dispatching Colby Covington.</p><p>Della Maddalena has been out of action since March 2024 when he defeated Gilbert Burns with a third-round knockout. The result catapulted the Australian fighter into title contention but a broken arm delayed his return to the Octagon.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Edwards, 33, has become one of the UFC's marquee English fighters since he became champion with an all-time knockout of Usman in 2022. He's ranked No. 1 among contenders in the welterweight division, while his proposed opponent sits at No. 4.</p><p>Edwards had gone 13 consecutive bouts without a defeat prior to the Muhammad loss. Della Maddalena is on a 17-fight winning streak after beginning his professional career with back-to-back losses.</p><p> </p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JULY 27: Leon Edwards of Jamaica prepares to face Belal Muhammad in the UFC welterweight championship bout during the UFC 304 event at Co-op Live on July 27, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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Report: UFC eyes Edwards vs. Della Maddalena for London event

The Athletics and slugger Brent Rooker agreed to a five-year extension, the club announced Wednes...

<p>The Athletics and slugger <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/9582" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/9582">Brent Rooker</a> agreed to a five-year extension, the club announced Wednesday.</p><p>The agreement is worth $60 million, a source told <a href="https://x.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1876506318712066091">The Athletic's Ken Rosenthal</a>.</p><p>Rooker's deal reportedly contains a vesting option that can take the contract to $90 million over six years.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The move halts trade speculation that followed the 30-year-old into the offseason. Rooker bashed 69 home runs over the past two seasons, making him a premier power threat and an intriguing trade chip for the typically frugal Athletics.</p><p>Rooker has blossomed with the A's after bouncing around the majors early in his career. He earned an All-Star selection in 2023 and a Silver Slugger award in 2024. A's general manager David Forst said in November that he <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3120050" href="https://thescore.com/news/3120050">wouldn't move</a> Rooker, who carried three years of arbitration eligibility.</p><p>An outfielder by trade, Rooker has settled in as the Athletics' everyday designated hitter.</p><p>The A's have had an unusually busy offseason, signing <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/4775" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/4775">Luis Severino</a> to a big-money contract in free agency before making other moves for <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/5726" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/5726">Jeffrey Springs</a> and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/3741" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/3741">Gio Urshela</a>.</p><p>The AL West club is looking to claw its way back into contention on the heels of three straight seasons with fewer than 70 wins. The A's will play the next three seasons in Sacramento while awaiting a stadium in Las Vegas, which will become their new permanent home.</p>

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 14: Oakland Athletics Designated Hitter Brent Rooker (25) rounds the bases after hitting a two run home run during the sixth inning of the Major League Baseball game between the Oakland Athletics and the Philadelphia Phillies on July 14, 2024, at Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia, PA.

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A's hand Rooker 5-year extension reportedly worth $60M

The Indianapolis Colts will keep head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard on t...

<p>The Indianapolis Colts will keep head coach Shane Steichen and general manager Chris Ballard on the heels of a tumultuous campaign that resulted in another missed postseason.</p><p>"I've been evaluating our entire operation, and I believe in Chris Ballard and Shane Steichen and our collective ability to make the improvements needed to take us to the next level in 2025," owner and CEO Jim Irsay said Sunday in a <a href="https://www.colts.com/news/letter-from-jim-irsay-to-fans-shane-steichen-chris-ballard-2025">letter</a> to Colts fans.</p><p>Indianapolis went 8-9 this season, finishing with a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Colts fell short of the playoffs for the fourth year in a row, while this particular campaign incited scrutiny over the team's collective work ethic.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Indianapolis benched second-year quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188125" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188125">Anthony Richardson</a> for two games midway through the season, leading him to admit his commitment level was insufficient. Defensive back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/116412" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/116412">Kenny Moore</a> and other players criticized the team at times during the season, calling out a lack of effort and expressing their desire for a culture change.</p><p>The Colts hired Steichen in 2023, tasking him with developing Richardson while leading the club back to contention. However, the former fourth overall pick has struggled to produce and stay on the field: Richardson missed the last two games of the season with a back injury and has played just 15 of a possible 34 contests since being drafted. He posted a paltry 47.7% completion rate this season, throwing for only eight touchdowns with 12 interceptions.</p><p>Ballard has held his position since 2017 and was believed to be on the hot seat entering the 2024 campaign. He's cycled through stopgap quarterbacks since Andrew Luck abruptly retired in the 2019 preseason, and has only one playoff appearance since then.</p>

WESTFIELD, INDIANA - JULY 26: Head coach Shane Steichen of the Indianapolis Colts speaks with General Manager Chris Ballard on the first day of the Indianapolis Colts Training Camp at Grand Park Sports Campus on July 26, 2023 in Westfield, Indiana.

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Colts retain Steichen, Ballard despite season of turmoil

The Tennessee Titans will pick first in the 2025 NFL Draft, while every other non-playoff team al...

<p>The Tennessee Titans will pick first in the 2025 NFL Draft, while every other non-playoff team also has a spot set in stone as the regular season wraps up.</p><p>Tennessee (3-14) clinched the No. 1 pick Sunday by losing to the Houston Texans and having the New England Patriots notch a fourth win by defeating the Buffalo Bills.</p><p>The Cleveland Browns, and New York Giants will select second and third, respectively. The Titans, Browns, and Giants all went 3-14, but Tennessee had the easiest schedule of the three.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Draft order is determined by team record, with strength of schedule acting as the tiebreaker.</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Pick</th>
<th>Team</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td>Titans (3-14)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2</td>
<td>Browns (3-14)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td>Giants (3-14)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4</td>
<td>Patriots (4-13)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td>Jaguars (4-13)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6</td>
<td>Raiders (4-13)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td>Jets (5-12)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8</td>
<td>Panthers (5-12)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td>Saints (5-12)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10</td>
<td>Bears (5-12)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td>49ers (6-11)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12</td>
<td>Cowboys (7-10)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td>Dolphins (8-9)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14</td>
<td>Colts (8-9)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td>Falcons (8-9)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>16</td>
<td>Cardinals (8-9)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td>Bengals (9-8)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>18</td>
<td>Seahawks (10-7)</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>The Titans have made the first overall selection twice in franchise history - first in 1973 when they selected defensive end John Matuszak, and second in 1978 when they drafted Hall of Fame running back Earl Campbell.</p><p>The 2025 NFL Draft begins April 24 in Green Bay.</p>

DETROIT, MI - APRIL 25: The Tennessee Titans get their pick in during Day 1 of the NFL Draft on April 25, 2024 at Campus Martius Park and Hart Plaza in Detroit, MI.

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2025 NFL Draft order set for non-playoff teams

Orlando Magic center Moe Wagner will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL in his left knee...

<p>Orlando Magic center <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/45014" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/45014">Moe Wagner</a> will miss the rest of the season with a torn ACL in his left knee, the team announced Sunday.</p><p>Wagner suffered the injury in the opening quarter Saturday versus the Miami Heat, going down before the Magic pulled off a 22-point comeback in the fourth quarter.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Orlando Magic center Moe Wagner was helped off the court after suffering what appears to be a left knee injury. Wagner is in the midst of his best season, averaging career-highs in points (13.3), rebounds (5.1) and 3-point percentage (.360) entering today. <a href="https://t.co/kOA3qRAKKg">pic.twitter.com/kOA3qRAKKg</a></p>— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeAScotto/status/1870635596064145782?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 22, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The German was having a career season before sustaining the knee injury, averaging 12.9 points and 4.9 rebounds while shooting 36% from deep. He ranked second in the NBA in points off the bench (372) and 15th in field-goal percentage (56.2%).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Magic hold an $11-million team option on Wagner for the 2025-26 season.</p><p>Wagner joins a growing list of injured Magic. His brother, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/96086" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/96086">Franz Wagner</a>, is expected to miss at least two more weeks after suffering a torn oblique, and former All-Star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/102767" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/102767">Paolo Banchero</a> has appeared in only five contests this season after also sustaining a torn oblique muscle.</p><p>The Magic are 18-12 and sit fourth in the Eastern Conference. They're set to play the Boston Celtics on Monday.</p>

MILWAUKEE, WISCONSIN - DECEMBER 10: Moritz Wagner #21 of the Orlando Magic walks backcourt during a game against the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Emirates Cup Quarterfinal at Fiserv Forum on December 10, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

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Magic's Moe Wagner out for season with torn ACL

Joaquin Buckley bloodied Colby Covington early and poured on plenty of offense, forcing a doctor'...

<p>Joaquin Buckley bloodied Colby Covington early and poured on plenty of offense, forcing a doctor's stoppage to win via TKO at the 4:42 mark of the third round in Saturday's main event at UFC Tampa.</p><p>Buckley won his fourth fight of the year and is now 6-0 since dropping to welterweight in 2023. He's poised to catapult up the UFC rankings after entering the cage ninth in the division, three spots behind his opponent.</p><p>Covington lost his second straight bout, failing to recover from the decision loss to Leon Edwards in a championship setting one year ago. The 36-year-old is 2-4 over his last six fights, though three were for the welterweight title.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Buckley asserted himself early in Tampa, landing damaging blows on the feet and stuffing a pair of takedown attempts in the first round. He sent Covington to the canvas at the end of the frame and stepped over the veteran after the horn sounded.</p><p>The St. Louis native found success with body shots and head strikes over the 14-plus minutes and opened the cut on Covington more and more as the fight progressed.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Due to a Doctor's Stoppage Joaquin Buckley wins by TKO.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFCTampa?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFCTampa</a> <a href="https://t.co/rj6iEjNFkK">pic.twitter.com/rj6iEjNFkK</a></p>— UFC (@ufc) <a href="https://twitter.com/ufc/status/1868179492981927966?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 15, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Covington secured a takedown in the second round but couldn't inflict significant damage before Buckley got back to his feet. By the third round, the latter made it clear it would be his night.</p><p>Buckley called out Edwards, Kamaru Usman, and champion Belal Muhammad in his postfight interview.</p><p>He scored knockout victories this year over Covington, Stephen Thompson, and Vicente Luque. "New Mansa" also earned a decision over Nursulton Ruziboev.</p><p>UFC Tampa marked the promotion's final event for 2024. Covington stepped in on short notice after Buckley's original opponent - Ian Machado Garry - agreed to fight Shavkat Rakhmonov a week earlier at UFC 310.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 14: (R-L) Joaquin Buckley punches Colby Covington in a welterweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at Amalie Arena on December 14, 2024 in Tampa, Florida.

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Buckley dismantles Covington, forces 3rd-round stoppage at UFC Tampa

Juan Soto shook social media Sunday night by reportedly agreeing to a 15-year, $765-million contr...

<p><a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///mlb/players/8271" href="https://thescore.com/mlb/players/8271">Juan Soto</a> shook social media Sunday night by reportedly agreeing to a <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///news/3129426" href="https://thescore.com/news/3129426">15-year, $765-million contract</a> with the New York Mets, giving him the richest contract in professional sports history.</p><p>The 26-year-old outfielder is taking his talents to Queens after a one-year stay with the New York Yankees in which he helped the Bronx Bombers reach the World Series for the first time since 2009.</p><p>Below is a slice of the reaction to the news. We lead off with Cleveland Cavaliers star and notorious Mets fan <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/44998" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/44998">Donovan Mitchell</a>:</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="pt" dir="ltr">LFFFGGGMMMMMM <a href="https://twitter.com/JuanSoto25_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JuanSoto25_</a> <a href="https://t.co/uf7x64yvqW">pic.twitter.com/uf7x64yvqW</a></p>— Donovan Mitchell (@spidadmitchell) <a href="https://twitter.com/spidadmitchell/status/1865959522096783853?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Yankees fans rn <a href="https://t.co/vdvI8QEurf">pic.twitter.com/vdvI8QEurf</a></p>— Baseball Is Dead (@baseballisdead_) <a href="https://twitter.com/baseballisdead_/status/1865958150651678864?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pirates have offered Juan Soto $15 million over 750 years</p>— Troy Beck (@troybeck) <a href="https://twitter.com/troybeck/status/1865952856387342714?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">$1.4 billion dollars in one picture. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Natitude?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Natitude</a> <a href="https://t.co/lF2zWas4Rb">pic.twitter.com/lF2zWas4Rb</a></p>— Luke Russert (@LukeRussert) <a href="https://twitter.com/LukeRussert/status/1865961308945805620?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Juan Soto is Rizz Approved‼️🤫🤔😎🫡</p>— The Rizzler (@Da_Rizzler419) <a href="https://twitter.com/Da_Rizzler419/status/1865960327239680223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Pirates total payroll last 10 years: $726 million<br><br>Juan Soto contract: $765 million<br><br>What a sport.</p>— Andrew Fillipponi (@ThePoniExpress) <a href="https://twitter.com/ThePoniExpress/status/1865962508969988576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="zxx" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/jyu1ioIoW7">pic.twitter.com/jyu1ioIoW7</a></p>— Mets'd Up Podcast (@MetsdUp) <a href="https://twitter.com/MetsdUp/status/1865961915131789417?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Juan Soto. 765 million.<br>Shohei Ohtani. 700 million.<br>Mike Trout. 426.5 million.<br>Mookie Betts. 365 million.<br>Aaron Judge. 360 million.<br>Manny Machado. 350 million.<br>Francisco Lindor. 341 million.<br>Fernando Tatis. 340 million.<br>Bryce Harper. 330 million.<br><br>Get your kid to play baseball.</p>— Sam Block (@theblockspot) <a href="https://twitter.com/theblockspot/status/1865959310414451135?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Juan Soto will have five years left on his contract when the Mets stop paying Bobby Bonilla <a href="https://t.co/2eMMrezLjL">pic.twitter.com/2eMMrezLjL</a></p>— BaseballHistoryNut (@nut_history) <a href="https://twitter.com/nut_history/status/1865960347493925326?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">$765 mil.. shoulda learned how to hit the ball not hit the gap 😅</p>— Darren McFadden (@dmcfadden20) <a href="https://twitter.com/dmcfadden20/status/1865961211340231093?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Juan Soto has made the All-Star Game in 3 straight seasons with 3 different teams<br><br>No player has done so in 4 straight years with 4 different teams…yet<br><br>h/t <a href="https://twitter.com/EliasSports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EliasSports</a></p>— Sarah Langs (@SlangsOnSports) <a href="https://twitter.com/SlangsOnSports/status/1865967123484356923?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">congratulate the mets fan in your life <a href="https://t.co/yBQxGeGQBT">pic.twitter.com/yBQxGeGQBT</a></p>— Cut4 (@Cut4) <a href="https://twitter.com/Cut4/status/1865971038032412696?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 9, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - JULY 24: Juan Soto #22 of the New York Yankees stands at second base during the fifth inning with Francisco Lindor #12 of the New York Mets at Yankee Stadium on July 24, 2024 in New York City.

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Social media reacts to Soto taking Mets megadeal

Warning: Video contains coarse language  Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham chalked up his end-...

<p><em>Warning: Video contains coarse language</em></p><p>Arizona State coach Kenny Dillingham chalked up his end-of-game strategy versus BYU to mathematics after producing one of the most hectic scenes in recent college football memory.</p><p>"There's a lot of statistics behind that thought process," Dillingham <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fv6F9v4EJPY">said</a> after escaping with a 28-23 victory. "And we won the game."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Sun Devils faced second-and-goal at the BYU 3-yard line in the final minute, leading by five and having already forced the Cougars to burn two of their three timeouts. Instead of plunging ahead for a touchdown, quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/183831" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/183831">Sam Leavitt</a> ran backward for 26 yards to take time off the clock.</p><p>Leavitt went backward again on third down, killing more seconds. On fourth down, he heaved the ball out of bounds as time expired, and fans rushed the field to celebrate.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Arizona State tries to chew all the clock <a href="https://t.co/hN5ZFRhsDv">pic.twitter.com/hN5ZFRhsDv</a></p>— Liam Blutman (@Blutman27) <a href="https://twitter.com/Blutman27/status/1860473817375600793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>However, officials reviewed the play and determined there was still 1 second on the clock when Leavitt's pass touched out of bounds. Dillingham was incredulous as the referees directed the game to continue.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Kenny Dillingham with his wife right next to him as the refs tell him there’s still 1 second on the clock.<br><br>“There’s no way. There’s no way.”<a href="https://twitter.com/SunDevilSource?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SunDevilSource</a> <a href="https://t.co/cq60kFF1ca">pic.twitter.com/cq60kFF1ca</a></p>— Gabriella Chernoff (@gabbyjchernoff) <a href="https://twitter.com/gabbyjchernoff/status/1860481009504133170?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 24, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>BYU gained possession near midfield after a lengthy delay to clear fans off the field and return the goal posts to their upright position.</p><p>When play resumed, BYU quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/183579" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/183579">Jake Retzlaff</a> threw - and completed - a Hail Mary pass, but Arizona State tackled <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/168080" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/168080">Chase Roberts</a> shy of the goal line.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/2Yng18ib2TI?si=F-_fKkvWwB8CYL4P&amp;start=74" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></figure><p>"If you score, they have a minute left," Dillingham said of his approach near the BYU end zone. "There is a chance that they could score, kick an onside kick, and win. In reality, there was a point where there was under 12 seconds left and we had two plays. Each play should take roughly 6-7 seconds."</p><p>The win kept Arizona State in the hunt for the Big 12 championship heading into the final week of the regular season. The Sun Devils are 9-2 after winning three games last season in Dillingham's first year at the helm.</p>

TEMPE, AZ - NOVEMBER 23: Arizona State Sun Devils head coach Kenny Dillingham gestures to the referees during the college football game between the BYU Cougars and the Arizona State Sun Devils on November 23, 2024 at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona.

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Dillingham: 'Statistics' behind strategy that threw ASU-BYU into chaos

The Milwaukee Bucks placed Damian Lillard in concussion protocol and ruled him out for Tuesday's ...

<p>The Milwaukee Bucks placed <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/5343" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/5343">Damian Lillard</a> in concussion protocol and ruled him out for Tuesday's game against the Toronto Raptors, the team announced.</p><p>Lillard took a hit to the head late in the third quarter of Sunday's contest against the Boston Celtics, sources told NBA insider <a href="https://x.com/ChrisBHaynes/status/1856167298354295064">Chris Haynes</a>.</p><p>The All-Star guard experienced headaches and dizziness Monday and subsequent tests confirmed a concussion, adds Haynes.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Lillard could play Wednesday versus the Detroit Pistons if he clears the NBA's concussion protocol, according to Haynes.</p><p>Lillard is averaging 26 points and 6.6 assists per game in his second campaign with the Bucks. The 34-year-old is shooting 44.4% from the field and 34.8% from deep, which is in line with his efficiency from his first season in Milwaukee.</p><p>The Bucks carry a 2-8 record into Tuesday's game, which marks the first contest of the 2024 NBA In-Season Tournament.</p>

PORTLAND, OREGON - JANUARY 31: Damian Lillard #0 of the Milwaukee Bucks reacts during the second quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center on January 31, 2024 in Portland, Oregon.

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Lillard enters concussion protocol, won't play vs. Raptors

Utah athletic director Mark Harlan refused to accept a 22-21 loss to rival BYU on Saturday after ...

<p>Utah athletic director Mark Harlan refused to accept a 22-21 loss to rival BYU on Saturday after a controversial penalty on the Cougars' final drive kept them alive.</p><p>"This game was absolutely stolen from us," Harlan said at an impromptu press conference. "We were excited about being in the Big 12 but, tonight, I'm not. We won this game, someone else stole it from us. Very disappointed, I will talk to the commissioner. This was not fair to our team. I'm disgusted by the professionalism of the officiating crew tonight."</p><p>Utah had the game all but wrapped up, as BYU faced a fourth-and-10 while pinned inside its own 10-yard line, trailing 21-19 in the final two minutes. The Utes sacked <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/183579" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/183579">Jake Retzlaff</a> on the play, but the officials threw a flag for defensive holding, giving BYU a fresh set of downs.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>A change in possession would've allowed the Utes to kneel until the clock ran out, as the Cougars had no timeouts left.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here is the holding call that prevented Utah from upsetting BYU <a href="https://t.co/ApV9IiKpoM">pic.twitter.com/ApV9IiKpoM</a></p>— Austin 🦆 (@deviousduck_) <a href="https://twitter.com/deviousduck_/status/1855508634517832048?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>After the penalty, Retzlaff connected on a 30-yard pass to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/168080" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/168080">Chase Roberts</a> and a 12-yard strike to <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/172949" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/172949">Darius Lassiter</a>. Then, a 14-yard run from <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/154702" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/154702">Hinckley Ropati</a> put BYU in field goal range. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///ncaaf/players/167693" href="https://thescore.com/ncaaf/players/167693">Will Ferrin</a> converted a 44-yard try in the dying seconds to give the Cougars the win and keep them undefeated.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">FOR THE WIN!!!!!! <a href="https://t.co/YANqIrS4uW">pic.twitter.com/YANqIrS4uW</a></p>— BYU FOOTBALL (@BYUfootball) <a href="https://twitter.com/BYUfootball/status/1855507762924646601?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 10, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The outcome marked the first time BYU won in Salt Lake City since 2006. BYU, which is now 9-0, is looking to reach the College Football Playoff for the first time. The school was ranked ninth in the first CFP poll of the season.</p><p>Conference commissioner Brett Yormark said in a statement that Harlan's comments "irresponsibly challenged the professionalism of (Big 12) officials and the integrity of the Big 12 conference," per <a href="https://x.com/BryanDFischer/status/1855737017444802647">Bryan Fischer of Sports Illustrated</a>. Harlan was also fined $40,000 and could face larger financial penalties with repeat offenses.</p><p>BYU and Utah are both fairly new to the Big 12. Utah joined in 2024, jumping from the Pac-12 in the midst of major NCAA conference realignment. BYU entered in 2023 after several years as an FBS independent.</p>

SALT LAKE CITY, UT - NOVEMBER 9: Kelly Poppinga special teams coach of the Brigham Young Cougars celebrates with members of the team after beating the Utah Utes at Rice-Eccles Stadium on November 9, 2024 in Salt Lake City, Utah.

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Utah AD: BYU game 'absolutely stolen from us' by refs

The NFL fined San Francisco 49ers defensive end Nick Bosa $11,255 for violating its uniform and e...

<p>The NFL fined San Francisco 49ers defensive end <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/111907" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/111907">Nick Bosa</a> $11,255 for violating its uniform and equipment rules by wearing a cap that contained a personal message, according to <a href="https://x.com/AdamSchefter/status/1855357262820163661">ESPN's Adam Schefter</a>.</p><p>Bosa put on a "Make America Great Again" hat that supported U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump at the end of Sunday Night Football on Oct. 27.</p><p>The NFL rulebook states: "Throughout the period on gameday that a player is visible to the stadium and television audience (including in pregame warmups, in the bench area, and during postgame interviews in the locker room or on the field), players are prohibited from wearing, displaying, or otherwise conveying personal messages either in writing or illustration, unless such message has been approved in advance by the League office."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/49ers?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#49ers</a> DE Nick Bosa crashed NBC’s postgame interview with Brock Purdy to flash his Donald Trump “MAGA” hat.<br><br> <a href="https://t.co/Ifw1ACt09l">pic.twitter.com/Ifw1ACt09l</a></p>— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) <a href="https://twitter.com/MySportsUpdate/status/1850759535817793934?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 28, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>The 49ers star acknowledged the possibility of a fine afterward, saying any financial penalty would be "worth it."</p><p>A Pro Bowler the last three years, Bosa has 4.5 sacks in eight appearances in 2024.</p><p>San Francisco will face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday. Bosa finished the week with a questionable designation due to a hip injury.</p>

SANTA CLARA, CALIFORNIA - OCTOBER 27: Nick Bosa #97 of the San Francisco 49ers looks on from the sideline during the game \ at Levi's Stadium on October 27, 2024 in Santa Clara, California.

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Report: 49ers' Bosa fined for MAGA cap on field

Los Angeles Lakers forward Anthony Davis said Monday that new coach JJ Redick spent the offseason...

<p>Los Angeles Lakers forward <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/11373" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/11373">Anthony Davis</a> said Monday that new coach JJ Redick spent the offseason encouraging him to take more 3-pointers.</p><p>"He's been on me all summer about shooting threes," Davis told reporters at Lakers media day, according to <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ki3K7bUw3bo">House of Highlights</a>. "Even in the Olympics when I made the three, he texted me, 'That's what I want to see.'"</p><p>Davis, who went 1-for-2 from deep at the Paris Games, averaged 27.8 points last season while attempting 1.4 threes per game. He struggled from that range, converting 27.1% of the time.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Lakers big shot a career-high 3.5 threes per game in 2019-20, his first campaign with the Lakers, but his attempts and percentage have diminished since then. He drained 33% of his 3-balls in that 2019-20 season, which ended with the Lakers winning the NBA championship.</p><p>Redick, a sharpshooter during his playing career, is entering his first season as Lakers coach. Los Angeles made the playoffs in the last two seasons but got knocked out by the Denver Nuggets both times.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - February 13: Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers celebrates during the game against the Detroit Pistons on February 13, 2024 at Crypto.Com Arena in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2024 NBAE

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Lakers' Davis: Redick wants me shooting more 3s

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love is active for Sunday's game versus the Minnesota Viking...

<p>Green Bay Packers quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/104659" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/104659">Jordan Love</a> is active for Sunday's game versus the Minnesota Vikings after missing the last two weeks with a sprained MCL.</p><p>Love injured his knee in the final moments of the season opener versus the Philadelphia Eagles in a game that marked the NFL's debut in Brazil. Love threw for 260 yards with two touchdowns and one interception in a losing effort.</p><p>The Packers managed to go 2-0 without Love, as <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174046" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174046">Malik Willis</a> picked up wins over the Indianapolis Colts and Tennessee Titans.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Love, who inked a four-year, $220-million extension over the summer to solidify him as the Packers' long-term QB, will return to face a Vikings defense that is allowing only 10 points per game.</p>

SÃO PAULO, BRAZIL - SEPTEMBER 7: Quarterback Jordan Love #10 of the Green Bay Packers looks downfield to pass during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game against the Philadelphia Eagles, at Arena Corinthians on September 7, 2024 in Sao Paulo, Brazil.

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Love returns vs. Vikings after 2-game absence 

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker is off the injury report leading up to Monday Night ...

<p>Seattle Seahawks running back <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174074" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174074">Kenneth Walker</a> is off the injury report leading up to Monday Night Football after sitting out a pair of contests with an oblique injury, according to <a href="https://x.com/BradyHenderson/status/1840107380920725874">ESPN's Brady Henderson</a>.</p><p>Walker ran for 103 yards and a touchdown in a season-opening win over the Denver Broncos before missing the next two weeks. <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/188172" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/188172">Zach Charbonnet</a> led the backfield in his absence, running for three touchdowns across victories against the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins.</p><p>Walker, a third-year back, scampered for 905 yards and eight touchdowns last year. He posted 1,050 yards and nine touchdowns on the ground as a rookie in 2022.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The Seahawks carry a 3-0 record into Monday's date with the Detroit Lions, who are off to a 2-1 start and expect to be top contenders in the NFC this season.</p><p>Seattle will look to reach 4-0 without defensive linemen <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/63909" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/63909">Leonard Williams</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/199755" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/199755">Byron Murphy</a>, <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/174075" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/174075">Boye Mafe</a>, and <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nfl/players/87567" href="https://thescore.com/nfl/players/87567">Uchenna Nwosu</a>, who will all miss the game with injuries.</p>

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - SEPTEMBER 17: Kenneth Walker III #9 of the Seattle Seahawks runs in action against the Detroit Lions at Ford Field on September 17, 2023 in Detroit, Michigan.

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Seahawks' Walker to return on MNF after missing 2 games

The BC Lions moved highly touted quarterback Nathan Rourke to the bench to start the second half ...

<p>The BC Lions moved highly touted quarterback <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/204567" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/204567">Nathan Rourke</a> to the bench to start the second half of Friday's game against the Toronto Argonauts, replacing him with <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///cfl/players/182222" href="https://thescore.com/cfl/players/182222">Vernon Adams Jr</a>.</p><p>Rourke was 6-for-12, passing for 110 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions. He also had one carry for nine yards and a score.</p><p>The Lions confirmed that Rourke was healthy, per the TSN broadcast. BC went on to suffer a 33-17 defeat, dropping back down to the .500 mark at 7-7.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Rourke had completed 73 of 114 passing attempts for 989 yards, four touchdowns, and seven interceptions in four games entering Friday's contest. The Lions went 2-2 in those games.</p><p>The 26-year-old Rourke returned to the CFL in August after bouncing around the NFL in 2023 and the first part of 2024. He won the CFL's Most Outstanding Canadian award in 2022 as a member of the Lions before heading south of the border.</p><p>Adams was one of the front-runners for MOP before sustaining a knee injury. He had thrown for 2,469 yards, 14 touchdowns, and six interceptions entering Friday's matchup.</p>

MONTREAL, QC - SEPTEMBER 06: BC Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke (12) passes the ball during the BC Lions versus the Montreal Alouettes game on September 06, 2024, at Percival Molson Memorial Stadium in Montreal, QC

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Lions' Rourke benched in 5th game of CFL return

The PFL won't attempt to sign undefeated flyweight and former UFC contender Muhammad Mokaev follo...

<p>The PFL won't attempt to sign undefeated flyweight and former UFC contender Muhammad Mokaev following his split with the UFC.</p><p>"I've spoken to people in the know and, apparently, he's just a pain in the ass to deal with," PFL president Ray Sefo said Friday, per <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PpfMdgaKczI">MMA Mania</a>. "And so, no, we're not interested."</p><p>Mokaev became a free agent after fighting out his contract with the UFC one week ago. He defeated Manel Kape by unanimous decision on the UFC 304 prelims to improve his career record to 13-0 and requested a new contract after the fight.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Despite Mokaev's accolades, UFC CEO Dana White said he wouldn't re-sign the 23-year-old because the matchmakers disliked working with him. White didn't divulge specifically what the issues were.</p><p>The Mokaev-Kape bout was widely believed to be a No. 1 contender's fight going in, but the affair lacked action following an intense buildup. Mokaev admitted afterward he baited Kape for a photo in order to sucker-punch him days before their contest. The two reportedly also had an altercation at the UFC Performance Institute before tangling at UFC 304.</p><p>The PFL doesn't offer flyweight or bantamweight divisions, though its Bellator brand features a 135-pound weight class that Mokaev could've been a candidate to join.</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - JULY 27: Muhammad Mokaev of Russia is held back by security prior to a flyweight bout against Manel Kape of Angola during the UFC 304 event at Co-op Live on July 27, 2024 in Manchester, England.

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PFL president won't pursue Mokaev: 'Pain in the ass to deal with'

Ilia Topuria will defend the featherweight championship against Max Holloway on Oct. 26 in Abu Dh...

<p>Ilia Topuria will defend the featherweight championship against Max Holloway on Oct. 26 in Abu Dhabi at UFC 308, the promotion announced Saturday.</p><p>The card also features Robert Whittaker versus Khamzat Chimaev in a middleweight tilt, Magomed Ankalaev against Aleksandar Rakic in a light heavyweight contest, and Rafael dos Anjos returning to welterweight opposite Geoff Neal.</p><p>Topuria and Holloway will settle their score after going back and forth on social media for months. Holloway entrenched himself as the undoubted top contender after a viral knockout of Justin Gaethje at UFC 300 that won him Performance of the Night and Fight of the Night bonuses.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Topuria will put his belt on the line for the first time since knocking out long-reigning champion Alexander Volkanovski to win the title in February. Topuria owns a 15-0 career record with 13 finishes.</p><p>Holloway, the former champion at 145 pounds, has only lost to Volkanovski and Dustin Poirier (in a lightweight fight) since 2014.</p><p>In the co-headliner, the UFC rebooked Whittaker and Chimaev after an illness pulled the latter from the main event of a Fight Night in Saudi Arabia in June. Chimaev, who's 13-0, has only fought once since the beginning of 2023 after making an impact during the COVID-19 pandemic by winning three times in three months.</p><p>In another high-stakes bout, Ankalev returns to fight another contender after failing to secure a title shot against Alex Pereira. He's 18-1-1 (1 NC) but has only a win over Johnny Walker since fighting Jan Blachowicz to a draw in December 2022.</p><p>The UFC also announced a previously reported heavyweight matchup between Ciryl Gane and Alexander Volkov for the card.</p>

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - FEBRUARY 17: Ilia Topuria of Germany celebrates after his knockout victory against Alexander Volkanovski of Australia in the UFC featherweight championship fight during the UFC 298 event at Honda Center on February 17, 2024 in Anaheim, California.

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Topuria-Holloway, Whittaker-Chimaev lead UFC 308

Canadian backstroke specialist Kylie Masse won bronze in the 200m Friday for the fifth medal of h...

<p>Canadian backstroke specialist Kylie Masse won bronze in the 200m Friday for the fifth medal of her Olympic career.</p><p>Masse previously won two silvers and a bronze at 2020 Tokyo and a bronze at 2016 Rio.</p><p>Australia's Kaylee McKeown took gold in the 200m final, while Regan Smith of the United States claimed silver.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Masse sprinted to an early lead Friday before she began fading in the second and third lengths of the pool. She and Phoebe Bacon were neck-and-neck for third place down the stretch, but Masse managed to touch the wall 0.04 seconds ahead of the American to snatch the final spot on the podium.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Masse x acceleration = medals 🥉<br><br>Kylie Masse is now a five-time Olympic medallist, adding a bronze in the women’s 200m backstroke to her collection <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MedalMoments?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MedalMoments</a> presented by <a href="https://twitter.com/petrocanada?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@petrocanada</a> <a href="https://t.co/xRwhnifwAw">pic.twitter.com/xRwhnifwAw</a></p>— CBC Olympics (@CBCOlympics) <a href="https://twitter.com/CBCOlympics/status/1819448448661303520?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 2, 2024</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>Four of Masse's five Olympic medals have come in the backstroke, with the other one from a relay medley.</p><p>McKeown claimed gold in the 100m and 200m backstroke events in Paris, breaking Olympic records in both finals.</p>

Canada's Kylie Masse competes in a semifinal of the women's 200m backstroke swimming event during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games at the Paris La Defense Arena in Nanterre, west of Paris, on August 1, 2024.

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Kylie Masse takes bronze in 200m backstroke

Ahead of Saturday's UFC 304 in Manchester, theScore's Alex Chippin fills in for a vacationing Nic...

<p><em>Ahead of Saturday's UFC 304 in Manchester, theScore's Alex Chippin fills in for a vacationing Nick Baldwin and makes his picks for the main-card bouts.</em></p><h3>Welterweight championship</h3><p><strong>Leon Edwards (22-3, 1 NC)<br>vs.<br>Belal Muhammad (23-3, 1 NC)</strong></p><p>At first glance, you might think Muhammad can utilize his world-class wrestling to grind out a five-round decision over a predominant striker in Edwards. But keep in mind that both Kamaru Usman and Colby Covington thought similarly, and Edwards turned them aside with relative ease in his last two fights.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The problem Muhammad faces is that even if he can secure takedowns, he's never been one to do much with them. The 36-year-old has just one career submission on his resume, and he wrestles to maintain position more than to set up ground-and-pound. Moreover, Edwards had no problem getting back to his feet against Usman and Covington, two equally credentialed wrestlers as Muhammad.</p><p>That brings us to the standup department, where Edwards is significantly more active and perhaps the most technical striker in the division. His lack of finishing ability - the Usman head kick notwithstanding - gives his opponents chances over 25 minutes, but Muhammad will need to fight more violently than usual to capitalize.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Edwards, decision</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738499/cropped_GettyImages-2163824098.jpg?ts=1722044838" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738499/w220xh124_GettyImages-2163824098.jpg?ts=1722044838 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738499/w320xh180_GettyImages-2163824098.jpg?ts=1722044838 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738499/w640xh360_GettyImages-2163824098.jpg?ts=1722044838 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738499/w768xh432_GettyImages-2163824098.jpg?ts=1722044838 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738499/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2163824098.jpg?ts=1722044838 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Interim heavyweight championship</h3><p><strong>Tom Aspinall (14-3)<br>vs.<br>Curtis Blaydes (18-4, 1 NC)</strong></p><p>Like his blue corner compadre Muhammad, Blaydes holds an advantage over the champion in pure wrestling. But like Muhammad, his prowess hasn't resulted in submissions - Blaydes doesn't have one to his name, in fact.</p><p>That means this fight, like many heavyweight battles, likely comes down to who lands a power shot first. And it's hard to doubt Aspinall there given his agility, precision, and 11 career KOs, especially against a contender like Blaydes, who's been knocked out four times.</p><p>One factor to watch: Aspinall has never gone two full rounds. If Blaydes can grapple early and force Aspinall to expend energy (easier said than done since Aspinall is very well-rounded), the American could be in a prime position to win this in the later rounds. Right now, though, it feels like Aspinall has the momentum of the world behind him.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Aspinall, 1st-round TKO</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738498/cropped_GettyImages-2163824064.jpg?ts=1722044780" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738498/w220xh124_GettyImages-2163824064.jpg?ts=1722044780 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738498/w320xh180_GettyImages-2163824064.jpg?ts=1722044780 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738498/w640xh360_GettyImages-2163824064.jpg?ts=1722044780 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738498/w768xh432_GettyImages-2163824064.jpg?ts=1722044780 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738498/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2163824064.jpg?ts=1722044780 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Lightweight bout</h3><p><strong>King Green (32-15, 1 NC)<br>vs.<br>Paddy Pimblett (21-3)</strong></p><p><em>(Note: Green has legally changed his first name from Bobby to King.)</em></p><p>Scousers don't get knocked out. But they do get hit a lot, and that'll be a problem for Pimblett against someone with as much output as Green.</p><p>While Green has suffered a handful of knockouts, Pimblett doesn't hit like Jalin Turner, Dustin Poirier, or the other power punchers who have caught him. Therefore, Pimblett's clearest path to victory is on the ground, where he's a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt and has submitted other grapplers like Kazula Vargas and Jordan Leavitt. The problem in this matchup is that Green fights with his hands down, a style that carries risk but also helps him react to takedown attempts.</p><p>On the feet, Green is the faster, more crisp puncher, and his cardio won't flutter over 15 minutes. Expect Pimblett to come out on fire in front of his home fans, but unless he can crack Green in the pocket, the Liverpool native will have a tough time crossing the finish line.</p><p><strong>The pick: </strong>Green, decision</p><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738497/cropped_GettyImages-2163823334.jpg?ts=1722044723" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738497/w220xh124_GettyImages-2163823334.jpg?ts=1722044723 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738497/w320xh180_GettyImages-2163823334.jpg?ts=1722044723 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738497/w640xh360_GettyImages-2163823334.jpg?ts=1722044723 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738497/w768xh432_GettyImages-2163823334.jpg?ts=1722044723 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/738497/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2163823334.jpg?ts=1722044723 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p><strong>Other main-card predictions:</strong> Christian Leroy Duncan def. Gregory Rodrigues by 2nd-round TKO; Giga Chikadze def. Arnold Allen by decision</p>

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