Former UFC champions Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley will square off in a professional boxing ma...

<p>Former UFC champions Anderson Silva and Tyron Woodley will square off in a professional boxing match on the Jake Paul-Anthony Joshua undercard Dec. 19 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Most Valuable Promotions announced Friday.</p><p>Woodley is stepping in for Chris Weidman, who withdrew due to an injury.</p><p>Silva-Woodley is scheduled for six rounds and will be contested at 195 pounds. The Paul-Joshua event will stream live on Netflix.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Silva, a former UFC middleweight champion and one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time, will step into the ring for the first time since a 2022 loss to Paul. The 50-year-old Brazilian has put together a 2-1 boxing record since retiring from MMA, which includes wins over Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. and Tito Ortiz.</p><p>Woodley, 43, is seeking his first professional boxing victory. The former UFC welterweight champion made his debut against Paul in August 2021, losing by split decision, and then suffered a sixth-round knockout defeat in a rematch four months later.</p><p>"Rising to occasions like this are the moments where legends are born," Woodley said in a press release.</p><p>Woodley hasn't formally retired from MMA, though he hasn't competed in that sport in nearly five years. He parted ways with the UFC in 2021 on the heels of a four-fight losing streak. Woodley hasn't won a bout since 2018.</p>

TAMPA, FLORIDA - DECEMBER 15: Tyron Woodley works out during a media workout at the Seminole Hard Rock Tampa pool prior to her December 18th fight against Jake Paul on December 15, 2021 in Tampa, Florida.

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Silva to box Woodley on Paul-Joshua undercard

Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman believes it makes the most sense for the promotion ...

<p>Former UFC welterweight champion Kamaru Usman believes it makes the most sense for the promotion to give him the next title shot against newly crowned champ Islam Makhachev.</p><p>Usman is one of several options for Makhachev, who captured the 170-pound title with a dominant win over Jack Della Maddalena at UFC 322 this past weekend in New York. Usman, who held the belt from 2019-22, said he thinks this is the perfect time for him and Makhachev to square off - and that there's a good chance the UFC will grant him his wish.</p><p>"I think the chances (of the fight happening next) are great," Usman told <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D0TrNwL1R-M">ESPN's Brett Okamoto</a>. "The time would be now to fight for the title. What does it do by having me fight (someone like) Michael Morales? I'm still in the same position as I am now. ... There's a lot of guys in the welterweight division that could potentially put their name in that hat ... but this is also an entertainment company. You want to do the biggest, baddest fights. I think it's a no-brainer here."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Makhachev said after UFC 322 that he'd prefer to make his first title defense against Usman, though the promotion has yet to make any decisions regarding the matter. Several other top welterweights competed at Saturday's event, including Morales, who finished Sean Brady in the first round, and Carlos Prates, who scored a highlight-reel knockout of former champion Leon Edwards. They both could also be in the mix for a crack at Makhachev's title.</p><p>Usman, one of the greatest welterweights of all time, went on a three-fight losing streak when he dropped the title to Edwards in 2022. But he got back on track earlier this year with a dominant win over rising contender Joaquin Buckley.</p><p>Usman said that the stakes would be massive in a bout against Makhachev, calling the potential fight "pound-for-pound versus pound-for-pound."</p><p>"Who is the pound-for-pound? Who is the greatest welterweight?" Usman said. "I think that question will be answered in that fight."</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 14: Kamaru Usman is seen on stage during a Q&A session prior to the UFC 322 ceremonial weigh-in at The Theater at Madison Square Garden on November 14, 2025 in New York City.

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Usman: UFC title fight vs. Makhachev 'a no-brainer'

Newly crowned UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev is back on top of the pound-for-pound lis...

<p>Newly crowned UFC welterweight champion Islam Makhachev is back on top of the pound-for-pound list.</p><p>Makhachev moved up to the No. 1 position in the men's rankings Tuesday, surpassing lightweight champion Ilia Topuria. The 34-year-old Dagestani defeated Jack Della Maddalena by unanimous decision at UFC 322 on Saturday to claim the 170-pound title.</p><p>Makhachev, a former lightweight champ, was previously the pound-for-pound king for over 600 days, from November 2023 to July 2025. Topuria took the No. 1 spot after capturing the vacant 155-pound belt with a knockout win over Charles Oliviera at UFC 317.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here's a look at the updated rankings:</p><figure class="article-segment--table"><div class="table-responsive"><table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>UFC men's pound-for-pound rankings</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1. Islam Makhachev (+1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>2. Ilia Topuria (-1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3. Merab Dvalishvili</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>4. Khamzat Chimaev</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5. Alexandre Pantoja</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>6. Alex Pereira</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7. Alexander Volkanovski</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>8. Tom Aspinall (+1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9. Jack Della Maddalena (-1)</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>10. Dricus Du Plessis</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11. Max Holloway</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>12. Magomed Ankalaev</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13. Belal Muhammad</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>14. Arman Tsarukyan</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15. Charles Oliveira</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div></figure><p>Makhachev is on one of the greatest runs the sport has ever witnessed. The victory over Della Maddalena made him the 11th fighter to win UFC titles in two weight classes and tied him with Anderson Silva for the longest winning streak in promotion history (16).</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 14: Islam Makhachev of Russia poses on the scale during the UFC 322 ceremonial weigh-in at The Theater at Madison Square Garden on November 14, 2025 in New York City.

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Makhachev surpasses Topuria, retakes spot as UFC pound-for-pound king

Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant will miss at least two weeks after suffering a Grade 1 right ca...

<p>Memphis Grizzlies guard <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/62077" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/62077">Ja Morant</a> will miss at least two weeks after suffering a Grade 1 right calf strain in Saturday's loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers, the team announced Monday.</p><p>Morant will be re-evaluated in about two weeks.</p><p>The 26-year-old exited in the first quarter of the 108-100 defeat due to calf soreness.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Morant is averaging 17.9 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 7.6 assists in 12 games this season.</p><p>The Grizzlies are on the road Tuesday night against the San Antonio Spurs. Memphis holds a 4-10 record and sits third in the Southwest Division.</p>

CLEVELAND, OHIO - NOVEMBER 15: Guard Ja Morant #12 of the Memphis Grizzlies warms up before the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Rocket Arena on November 15, 2025 in Cleveland, Ohio.

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Grizzlies' Morant out 2 weeks with calf strain 

Islam Makhachev became the UFC's newest two-division champion Saturday night, dominating Jack Del...

<p>Islam Makhachev became the UFC's newest two-division champion Saturday night, dominating Jack Della Maddalena to capture the welterweight title in the UFC 322 main event in New York.</p><p>In the co-headliner, Valentina Shevchenko shut out Zhang Weili to retain the women's flyweight title.</p><p>Here are four takeaways from the pay-per-view event.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>2nd title is huge for Makhachev's legacy</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810170/cropped_GettyImages-2246911096.jpg?ts=1763323666" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810170/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246911096.jpg?ts=1763323666 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810170/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246911096.jpg?ts=1763323666 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810170/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246911096.jpg?ts=1763323666 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810170/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246911096.jpg?ts=1763323666 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810170/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246911096.jpg?ts=1763323666 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ishika Samant / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Dana White said after UFC 322 that Makhachev is heading toward "GOAT talk." It's hard to disagree with that.</p><p>Makhachev delivered arguably the most impressive performance of his career against Della Maddalena. It wasn't particularly thrilling, but it was as dominant as you can get. Makhachev used his wrestling to stymie the Australian's offense, amassing over 19 minutes of control time in the 25-minute fight. No one was stopping the new champion Saturday night.</p><p>It's easy to forget that Makhachev was the one moving up in weight, facing a bigger man in pursuit of a greater challenge, because it certainly didn't appear that way. Makhachev looked every bit as big as Della Maddalena, and he had no issue muscling him around the Octagon. In other words: welterweights, watch out. There's a new boogeyman in town. Makhachev said after the win that he plans to defend his new title "many, many times," and there's no reason to believe he won't.</p><p>Over the next few years, if Makhachev dominates at 170 pounds the way he did at 155 pounds, he'll be up there with the very best this sport has ever produced. He might just retire as the GOAT.</p><h3>Weight classes matter</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810171/cropped_GettyImages-2246906349.jpg?ts=1763323783" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810171/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246906349.jpg?ts=1763323783 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810171/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246906349.jpg?ts=1763323783 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810171/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246906349.jpg?ts=1763323783 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810171/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246906349.jpg?ts=1763323783 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810171/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246906349.jpg?ts=1763323783 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Sure, Makhachev made moving up a division look easy, but weight classes do matter sometimes. Such was the case in the co-main event, with Shevchenko mauling Zhang and denying her bid to become a two-division champion.</p><p>It became apparent early into the fight that the size difference would be too much for Zhang to overcome - and that this would not be an instant classic between two all-time greats like many expected. Zhang didn't have an answer for Shevchenko's length on the feet and physicality on the ground. The result? Five takedowns and over 13 minutes of control time.</p><p>That said, there's no shame in the loss if you're Zhang. She dared to be great and came up short - that's life. Hopefully, she goes back down and tries to reclaim the strawweight title, because Saturday night proved she can't hang with the flyweight division's best.</p><h3>Morales is welterweight's most compelling contender</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810172/cropped_GettyImages-2246903641.jpg?ts=1763323808" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810172/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246903641.jpg?ts=1763323808 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810172/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246903641.jpg?ts=1763323808 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810172/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246903641.jpg?ts=1763323808 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810172/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246903641.jpg?ts=1763323808 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810172/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246903641.jpg?ts=1763323808 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>UFC 322 was a showcase - and a mini-tournament of sorts - for the welterweight division. Makhachev became the new king, while Michael Morales and Carlos Prates skyrocketed to title contention with statement wins over Sean Brady and Leon Edwards, respectively.</p><p>At 34 years old, Makhachev would be favored to beat anyone at 170 pounds - and, again, he could be the champion for quite a while. But who stood out the most beyond him, and who would give the Dagestani the biggest run for his money? I have to go with Morales.</p><p>The undefeated 26-year-old Ecuadorian looked like the future of the welterweight division Saturday night in his first-round drubbing of Brady. This was his first real test, and he passed it with flying colors. Standing 6-feet tall with a 79-inch reach, Morales is big for the division, and it shows. He chipped away at Brady, a wrestler, with punches early in the round, not allowing him to close the distance. Eventually, Morales connected with a combination hard enough to wobble Brady and force the referee to intervene.</p><p>Morales is a physical specimen, but more importantly, he has yet to show any weaknesses. Makhachev-Morales may or may not happen next, but it's the most intriguing welterweight title fight the UFC can put together right now.</p><h3>Nickal is back</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810173/cropped_GettyImages-2246897354.jpg?ts=1763323835" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810173/w220xh124_GettyImages-2246897354.jpg?ts=1763323835 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810173/w320xh180_GettyImages-2246897354.jpg?ts=1763323835 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810173/w640xh360_GettyImages-2246897354.jpg?ts=1763323835 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810173/w768xh432_GettyImages-2246897354.jpg?ts=1763323835 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/810173/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2246897354.jpg?ts=1763323835 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Ishika Samant / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Bo Nickal needed a huge moment. And he got one.</p><p>Nickal, the highly touted middleweight prospect, stepped into the Octagon for the first time since suffering his first career loss and looked much improved. Nickal battered Rodolfo Vieira for the first 10 minutes of the UFC 322 featured prelim and then capped off the performance with a vicious head-kick knockout midway through the third round.</p><p>Nickal lost some hype when he came up short against Reinier de Ridder earlier this year, which, in hindsight, isn't totally fair considering De Ridder is one of the 10 best middleweights in the world. But I have a feeling that hype is almost all the way back now. Saturday's win was a reminder that Nickal is still young in this game and shouldn't be counted out just yet.</p>

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UFC 322 takeaways: Makhachev could end career as the GOAT

UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria is letting it be known he wasn't impressed with newly crown...

<p>UFC lightweight champion Ilia Topuria is letting it be known he wasn't impressed with newly crowned welterweight champ Islam Makhachev's performance at UFC 322.</p><p>Topuria tore into Makhachev on social media after the latter dominated Jack Della Maddalena on Saturday at Madison Square Garden in New York, earning a unanimous decision win to become the 11th two-division champion in UFC history.</p><p>"Islam, you need something you can't train: emotion," Topuria <a href="https://x.com/Topuriailia/status/1989936450054590889">wrote</a> on X. "You're the most boring thing in this game. Every day I'm more certain I put you to sleep."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Makhachev suffocated Della Maddalena on the ground for almost the entire fight, completing four takedowns and amassing over 19 minutes of control time.</p><p>With the victory, Makhachev tied Anderson Silva for the longest winning streak in UFC history (16).</p><p>Makhachev is only below Topuria in the promotion's pound-for-pound rankings. The UFC targeted a superfight between Makhachev and Topuria earlier this year, but it didn't come to fruition because Makhachev decided to move up in weight. Makhachev vacated the lightweight title in May and then Topuria captured the vacant belt a month later with a knockout win over Charles Oliveira.</p><p>Topuria said in June he planned to lobby for a welterweight title shot if Makhachev won the belt.</p><p>Topuria also slammed Della Maddalena, who suffered his first UFC loss in what was his first title defense.</p><p>"Jack needs an entire camp dedicated just to wrestling," Topuria wrote. "What a disappointment of a champion. You should go to Georgia to learn something."</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - JUNE 28: Ilia Topuria of Georgia looks on beofore facing Charles Oliveira of Brazil in the lightweight main event title bout during UFC 317 at T-Mobile Arena on June 28, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Topuria rips Makhachev: 'Most boring thing in this game'

The UFC has banned Dillon Danis from attending future events after he was involved in a brawl at ...

<p>The UFC has banned Dillon Danis from attending future events after he was involved in a brawl at UFC 322 on Saturday, CEO Dana White said.</p><p>Danis got into a scuffle with several members of welterweight champion Islam Makhachev's team while cageside at Madison Square Garden, just minutes before the main card started.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">MASSIVE BRAWL breaks out cageside at <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UFC322?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UFC322</a> with Dillon Danis and others in the fighter section. <br><br>🎥 <a href="https://twitter.com/MikeBohn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@mikebohn</a> <a href="https://t.co/djgEcCdGRt">pic.twitter.com/djgEcCdGRt</a></p>— MMA Junkie (@MMAJunkie) <a href="https://twitter.com/MMAJunkie/status/1989893887020749255?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 16, 2025</a>
</blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></figure><p>White said he declined to press charges but that Danis won't attend another event.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"You will never see Dillon Danis at a UFC fight ever again," White <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hhAMpwlvbjg">said</a> at the postfight press conference.</p><p>This was not the first time Danis, a former training partner of UFC star Conor McGregor, was involved in a melee at a UFC event. Danis was in McGregor's corner in 2018 when he lost to Makhachev's teammate Khabib Nurmagomedov in a blockbuster title fight. After the fight, Nurmagomedov infamously leapt over the Octagon and attacked McGregor's corner, including Danis, leading to a brawl inside and outside the cage.</p><p>White said he blames himself for letting Danis get into another fracas Saturday night.</p><p>"It never even crossed my mind - as stupid as this could be - that the entire Muslim brotherhood was here tonight in the first five rows for Islam," White said. "As soon as it broke out, I was over on the other side, and I go, 'F--k. I know exactly what that is.' I knew it."</p>

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - AUGUST 30: Dillon Danis celebrates after victory in the MF MMA Championship fight between Dillon Danis and Warren Spencer during the Misfits 22 - Ring of Thrones fight night at AO Arena on August 30, 2025 in Manchester, England.

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White: Danis banned from UFC events after brawl

Islam Makhachev is in the history books forever: He's the UFC's latest two-division champion.  Ma...

<p>Islam Makhachev is in the history books forever: He's the UFC's latest two-division champion.</p><p>Makhachev defeated Jack Della Maddalena via unanimous decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-45) to capture the welterweight title in the UFC 322 main event Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York.</p><p>Makhachev, a former lightweight champion who moved up to 170 pounds for the first time, became the 11th fighter to win UFC titles in two different weight classes. He also tied former middleweight champion Anderson Silva for the longest winning streak in promotion history (16).</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"This is the dream," Makhachev said in his postfight interview. "All my life for these two belts. I'm really happy. The belt is so heavy, and I like it. I worked hard for this moment."</p><p>Makhachev, ranked No. 2 pound-for-pound coming in, has been one of the top talents in the sport for years. The 34-year-old Dagestani captured the 155-pound title in 2022 and defended it four times before deciding to move up and challenge for a second belt. But no accomplishment has been as big or impressive as this one.</p><p>Makhachev delivered a masterful performance against Della Maddalena, using his wrestling to dominate the fight. He completed all four of his takedown attempts officially - though he got Della Maddalena to the ground in all five rounds - and compiled a whopping 19:10 of control time. Makhachev outlanded Della Maddalena 140-30 in total strikes and 30-18 in significant strikes.</p><p>"This is my plan," Makhachev said of the grueling victory. "It's not a secret. All my opponents know this, and nobody can stop."</p><p>Makhachev's professional record now stands at 28-1. He has been unbeaten for over a decade; his only career loss came in his second UFC fight in October 2015.</p><p>Makhachev said he wants to defend his title at the UFC's planned event at the White House next year.</p><p>"Donald Trump, let's go, open the White House," Makhachev said. "I am coming."</p><p>Della Maddalena, who was defending the welterweight title for the first time, suffered his first loss in the UFC and first defeat since 2016. He had won eight in a row in the promotion - and 18 straight overall - coming into the fight.</p><p>The 29-year-old Australian won the belt in a unanimous decision victory over Belal Muhammad at UFC 315 in May. Della Maddalena now holds an 18-3 record as a professional.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: Islam Makhachev of Russia reacts to his win over Jack Della Maddalena of Australia in the UFC welterweight championship fight during the UFC 322 event at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025 in New York City.

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Makhachev smothers Della Maddalena to win 2nd UFC title

Valentina Shevchenko showed that weight classes matter in her long-awaited superfight against Zha...

<p>Valentina Shevchenko showed that weight classes matter in her long-awaited superfight against Zhang Weili.</p><p>Shevchenko dominated Zhang to retain the women's flyweight title, earning a unanimous decision victory in the UFC 322 co-main event Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York.</p><p>All three judges scored the fight 50-45 in Shevchenko's favor.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Zhang, a former two-time strawweight champion, moved up to flyweight for the first time in her UFC career but was unsuccessful in her bid to capture a second title.</p><p>Shevchenko and Zhang were ranked No. 1 and No. 2 on the women's pound-for-pound list, respectively, coming in.</p><p>Shevchenko's physical advantages were paramount in the fight, as she used her size to pick Zhang apart in the stand-up department and control her on the ground for long stretches. The defending champion outlanded Zhang 137-80 in total strikes, completed five of six takedowns, and compiled 13:24 of control time.</p><p>Shevchenko, one of the greatest women's fighters of all time, is now riding a four-fight unbeaten streak. The 37-year-old has defended the 125-pound title twice since recapturing the throne against Alexa Grasso in September 2024.</p><p>Zhang's five-fight winning streak came to an end. The 36-year-old hadn't lost since a split-decision defeat in a rematch with Rose Namajunas in November 2021.</p><p>Zhang vacated the strawweight title earlier this year to move up in weight and challenge Shevchenko. Mackenzie Dern claimed the vacant belt with a win over Virna Jandiroba at UFC 321 in October. Zhang didn't say afterward whether she plans to return to 115 pounds.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: Valentina Shevchenko of Kyrgyzstan enters the Octagon in the UFC flyweight championship fight during the UFC 322 event at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025 in New York City.

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Shevchenko shuts out Zhang to retain UFC flyweight title

Carlos Prates knocked out former welterweight champion Leon Edwards at the 1:28 mark of the secon...

<p>Carlos Prates knocked out former welterweight champion Leon Edwards at the 1:28 mark of the second round at UFC 322 on Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York.</p><p>Prates landed a devastating left punch to give Edwards his first career knockout loss.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F2648882198801183%2F&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=476&amp;t=0" width="476" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></figure><p>Edwards has now lost three in a row. The 34-year-old Englishman dropped the 170-pound title in a unanimous decision defeat to Belal Muhammad in July 2024, and then suffered his first-ever submission loss against Sean Brady at UFC London in March.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Prates, a 32-year-old from Brazil, is riding a two-fight winning streak and is 6-1 in the promotion overall.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: Carlos Prates of Brazil celebrates his win over Leon Edwards of Jamaica in a welterweight fight during the UFC 322 event at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025 in New York City.

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Prates hands Edwards 1st KO loss of career

Benoit Saint Denis opened the UFC 322 main card in style.  Saint Denis knocked out Beneil Dariush...

<p>Benoit Saint Denis opened the UFC 322 main card in style.</p><p>Saint Denis knocked out Beneil Dariush 16 seconds into their lightweight bout Saturday night at Madison Square Garden in New York.</p><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1541004970518188%2F&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=476&amp;t=0" width="476" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></figure><p>The win was Saint Denis' third of the year after the 29-year-old Frenchman submitted Mauricio Ruffy and Kyle Prepolec in May and September, respectively.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Dariush, who was coming off a win over Renato Moicano, fell to 1-3 in his last four Octagon appearances.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: (L-R) Benoit Saint Denis of France strikes Beneil Dariush of Iran in a lightweight fight during the UFC 322 event at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025 in New York City.

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Watch: Saint Denis flattens Dariush for 16-second KO

Bo Nickal returned to the win column in a big way at UFC 322.  The middleweight prospect knocked ...

<p>Bo Nickal returned to the win column in a big way at UFC 322.</p><p>The middleweight prospect knocked out Rodolfo Vieira with a head kick at the 2:24 mark of the third round in the featured preliminary bout Saturday night at Madison Square Garden.</p><p>Nickal stepped into the Octagon for the first time since suffering his first career loss against Reinier de Ridder in May.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><figure class="article-segment--embed"><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?height=476&amp;href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Freel%2F1150502480133435%2F&amp;show_text=true&amp;width=476&amp;t=0" width="476" height="591" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></figure><p>Nickal, a three-time NCAA national champion in folkstyle wrestling, dominated the entire fight with his improved stand-up game. He pieced Vieira up with jabs and outlanded his opponent 77-24 in significant strikes.</p><p>Nickal, 29, lifted his UFC record to 5-1 with four finishes.</p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 15: (L-R) Rodolfo Vieira of Brazil strikes Bo Nickal in a middleweight fight during the UFC 322 event at Madison Square Garden on November 15, 2025 in New York City.

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Nickal rebounds with head-kick KO at UFC 322

Conor Benn delivered a brilliant performance in his highly anticipated rematch with Chris Eubank ...

<p>Conor Benn delivered a brilliant performance in his highly anticipated rematch with Chris Eubank Jr., earning a unanimous decision win Saturday at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.</p><p>The judges scored the fight 119-107, 116-110, and 118-108 in Benn's favor.</p><p>With the victory, Benn avenged his unanimous decision loss to Eubank that occurred at the same stadium in April.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>The rematch was completely different from their Fight of the Year candidate seven months ago, with Benn dominating the action from start to finish. He dropped Eubank twice in the 12th round and stayed much busier throughout the contest.</p><p>"This is the end of the Benn-Eubank saga," Benn said during his postfight interview. "This ends here."</p><p>Benn, a 29-year-old London native, lifted his professional record to 24-1.</p><p>Eubank suffered his first loss since January 2023, falling to 35-4 as a pro. The 36-year-old Englishman entered the bout riding a three-fight winning steak.</p>

LONDON, ENGLAND - NOVEMBER 15: Conor Benn punches Chris Eubank Jr during their middleweight fight on the ‘Unfinished Business’ fight card at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on November 15, 2025 in London, England.

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Benn gets revenge, dominates Eubank in rematch

theScore's Nick Baldwin makes his picks ahead of Saturday's UFC 322 in New York.  Welterweight ch...

<p><em>theScore's Nick Baldwin makes his picks ahead of Saturday's UFC 322 in New York.</em></p><h3>Welterweight championship</h3><p><strong>Jack Della Maddalena (18-2)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Islam Makhachev (27-1)</strong></p><p>Islam Makhachev is looking to etch his name in the history books by becoming the 11th (or 12th) fighter in UFC history to win titles in two different weight classes. To do so, he'll have to get past the striking of welterweight's unsung champion, Jack Della Maddalena.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Australia's Della Maddalena, who captured the 170-pound title in an upset win over Belal Muhammad in May, will be a tougher matchup for Makhachev than some may expect. His pinpoint accuracy and aggressiveness on the feet could make it difficult for Makhachev to gain control of the fight and take it to the ground. Della Maddalena has also demonstrated solid takedown defense in past bouts (though he did give up a few against Muhammad and Gilbert Burns).</p><p>That said, it's hard not to pick Makhachev to beat any lightweight or welterweight on the planet. The 34-year-old Dagestani has been the gold standard in the UFC for a while, dominating the likes of Alexander Volkanovski, Charles Oliveira, and Dustin Poirier to cement himself as one of the sport's top pound-for-pound fighters. Now that he's not cutting down to 155 pounds, he might perform even better.</p><p>Saturday's main event will largely come down to whether or not Makhachev can take Della Maddalena down and outgrapple him. If he can, double-champ status awaits.</p><h3>👊 The pick: <a href="http://3397004">Makhachev, fourth-round submission</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784898/cropped_GettyImages-2195138057.jpg?ts=1746823310" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784898/w220xh124_GettyImages-2195138057.jpg?ts=1746823310 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784898/w320xh180_GettyImages-2195138057.jpg?ts=1746823310 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784898/w640xh360_GettyImages-2195138057.jpg?ts=1746823310 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784898/w768xh432_GettyImages-2195138057.jpg?ts=1746823310 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/784898/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2195138057.jpg?ts=1746823310 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><blockquote><p>👉 <strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Check out all of the betting markets available for UFC 322 on ESPN BET and theScore Bet here</a></strong> </p></blockquote><h3>Women's flyweight championship</h3><p><strong>Valentina Shevchenko (25-4-1)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Zhang Weili (26-3)</strong></p><p>Two of the greatest women's MMA fighters in history will clash in a long-awaited superfight.</p><p>Valentina Shevchenko and Zhang Weili have ruled over the flyweight and strawweight divisions, respectively, for years, and now they'll meet in the Octagon to determine who's the top woman in the sport.</p><p>This fight is extremely tough to call, but I'm siding with Shevchenko to retain her title.</p><p>Zhang is a beast at 115 pounds, but she won't be able to rely on her physicality as much at 125 pounds. And when it comes down to technique - especially in the striking department - Shevchenko is superior. Look for "Bullet" to control the distance and pick Zhang apart on the feet, and then use her size to mix in some grappling later in the fight.</p><h3>👊 The pick: <a href="https://espnbet.app.link/integrations?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=0c35c7ea-ba13-4059-b6db-641c2404c769&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=47&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=27&amp;market_selection_id%5B1%5D=5cade9c0-02a6-4d2a-a254-c8cc6438d539&amp;odds_numerator%5B1%5D=18&amp;odds_denominator%5B1%5D=13&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322%2Fevent%2Feae5668f-4df7-4760-8b12-871da2b752de&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Shevchenko, unanimous decision</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809926/cropped_GettyImages-2214443413.jpg?ts=1763138630" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809926/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214443413.jpg?ts=1763138630 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809926/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214443413.jpg?ts=1763138630 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809926/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214443413.jpg?ts=1763138630 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809926/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214443413.jpg?ts=1763138630 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/809926/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214443413.jpg?ts=1763138630 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Welterweight bout</h3><p><strong>Sean Brady (18-1)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Michael Morales (18-0)</strong></p><p>Michael Morales is a terrific rising contender in the welterweight division, but this feels like the fight where the 26-year-old finally meets his match. That's not a knock on Morales; it's a testament to how good Sean Brady is. An elite wrestler who became the first to finish former champion Leon Edwards earlier this year, Brady is out to prove he deserves a title shot. I expect a big-time performance from Philadelphia's finest.</p><h3>👊 The pick: <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=86d52a6e-3621-4734-a15b-98a4badea980&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=12&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=7&amp;market_selection_id%5B1%5D=be24c00b-863a-4acc-bc16-67542083d189&amp;odds_numerator%5B1%5D=49&amp;odds_denominator%5B1%5D=29&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322%2Fevent%2F05f8d28e-1878-41d9-8561-8f8472262802&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Brady, unanimous decision</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611288/cropped_GettyImages-1827498096.jpg?ts=1705107545" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611288/w220xh124_GettyImages-1827498096.jpg?ts=1705107545 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611288/w320xh180_GettyImages-1827498096.jpg?ts=1705107545 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611288/w640xh360_GettyImages-1827498096.jpg?ts=1705107545 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611288/w768xh432_GettyImages-1827498096.jpg?ts=1705107545 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/611288/w1080xh607_GettyImages-1827498096.jpg?ts=1705107545 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Cooper Neill / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Welterweight bout</h3><p><strong>Leon Edwards (22-5, 1 NC)<br>vs.<br>Carlos Prates (22-7)</strong></p><p>I'm giving Edwards a better chance of beating Carlos Prates than most people are. Two reasons: He's fighting a striker, not a wrestler, and Prates could put forth another stinker like he did against Ian Machado Garry. However, I admit it's tough to trust Edwards after his incredibly uninspiring performance against Brady earlier this year. He barely looked like he wanted to be in the cage that night, which isn't typically a recipe for success. Prates is the hungrier of the two, so I have to side with the Brazilian to score the biggest win of his career. Still, I don't think it'll come as easily - or violently - as some are saying.</p><h3>👊 The pick: <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=fa788d50-39b4-456e-8986-f17ff0d67f35&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=11&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=7&amp;market_selection_id%5B1%5D=88b83942-317f-4dbd-889e-90d0eaeb7278&amp;odds_numerator%5B1%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B1%5D=23&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322%2Fevent%2Fda3e9159-198d-4afb-986f-d9c073273f03&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Prates, unanimous decision</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797812/cropped_GettyImages-2230527283.jpg?ts=1755401683" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797812/w220xh124_GettyImages-2230527283.jpg?ts=1755401683 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797812/w320xh180_GettyImages-2230527283.jpg?ts=1755401683 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797812/w640xh360_GettyImages-2230527283.jpg?ts=1755401683 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797812/w768xh432_GettyImages-2230527283.jpg?ts=1755401683 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/797812/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2230527283.jpg?ts=1755401683 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Geoff Stellfox / Getty Images Sport / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Lightweight bout</h3><p><strong>Beneil Dariush (23-6-1)</strong><br><strong>vs.</strong><br><strong>Benoit Saint Denis (15-3, 1 NC)</strong></p><p>Beneil Dariush's last win came against Renato Moicano, and Benoit Saint Denis' last loss came against Moicano. And because MMA math never works, I'm picking Saint Denis.</p><h3>👊 The pick: <a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=c4cd3335-de59-4dc2-ba59-bdb3b677ccda&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=57&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=37&amp;market_selection_id%5B1%5D=828b5fca-3725-41b2-8083-31f73d2f871a&amp;odds_numerator%5B1%5D=15&amp;odds_denominator%5B1%5D=4&amp;market_selection_id%5B2%5D=9c8d55e4-ddf3-4dbc-843e-0fcacb1b0180&amp;odds_numerator%5B2%5D=41&amp;odds_denominator%5B2%5D=21&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322%2Fevent%2F7ff7af25-8fc1-4951-b299-f1e6613f966c&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Saint Denis, second-round TKO</a>
</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796282/cropped_GettyImages-2214435801.jpg?ts=1753992107" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796282/w220xh124_GettyImages-2214435801.jpg?ts=1753992107 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796282/w320xh180_GettyImages-2214435801.jpg?ts=1753992107 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796282/w640xh360_GettyImages-2214435801.jpg?ts=1753992107 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796282/w768xh432_GettyImages-2214435801.jpg?ts=1753992107 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/796282/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2214435801.jpg?ts=1753992107 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><h3>Rapid-fire bets</h3><p><strong>💥 Best overall bet: </strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=86d52a6e-3621-4734-a15b-98a4badea980&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=12&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=7&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Sean Brady (-140) def. Michael Morales</a></p><p>Brady has the perfect kind of grueling style to neutralize Morales' offense. If he can dictate where the fight goes, he'll win in dominant fashion and look like a much bigger favorite than he is.</p><p><strong>💥 Best underdog bet: </strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=bb7db7d2-7204-4021-98d6-be94736427be&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=43&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=20&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322%2Fevent%2Feae5668f-4df7-4760-8b12-871da2b752de&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Zhang Weili (+115) def. Valentina Shevchenko</a></p><p>UFC 322 doesn't have many underdogs I'd be willing to bet on, but if you're desperate to call an upset, Zhang at +115 - in a coin-flip fight with Shevchenko - is as good as you'll get.</p><p><strong>💥 Best prop bet: </strong><a href="https://about.espnbet.com/sportsbook-redirect/?market_selection_id%5B0%5D=d48ab159-d764-495e-893a-bb50aa480ad4&amp;odds_numerator%5B0%5D=29&amp;odds_denominator%5B0%5D=19&amp;%24canonical_url=%2Fsport%2Fmma%2Forganization%2Fufc%2Fcompetition%2Fufc-322%2Fevent%2F42278708-4ee1-42b0-a7e8-d4c7b6c9e1e4&amp;campaign=thescore_content&amp;customer_campaign=article&amp;%7Echannel=thescore-content&amp;tags=3397004">Della-Maddalena vs. Makhachev goes past 2.5 rounds (-190)</a></p><p>An early finish seems unlikely in Saturday's main event. Regardless of the outcome, it'll take a while for Della Maddalena and Makhachev to figure each other out.</p>

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UFC 322 predictions: Will Makhachev win 2nd title?

UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena and former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev ma...

<p>UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena and former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev made weight Friday before they square off in the UFC 322 main event Saturday in New York.</p><p>Della Maddalena and Makhachev weighed in at 169.8 and 170 pounds, respectively.</p><p>Women's flyweight champ Valentina Shevchenko and former strawweight queen Zhang Weili were also on the mark ahead of the co-main event. They both came in at 124.6 pounds.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Here are the UFC 322 weigh-in results.</p><h3>Main card (ESPN+ PPV at 10 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Jack Della Maddalena (169.8) vs. Islam Makhachev (170)</li>
<li>Valentina Shevchenko (124.6) vs. Zhang Weili (124.6)</li>
<li>Sean Brady (169.4) vs. Michael Morales (170.6)</li>
<li>Leon Edwards (170) vs. Carlos Prates (169.6)</li>
<li>Beneil Dariush (157.2)* vs. Benoit Saint Denis (155.6)</li>
</ul><h3>Preliminary card (ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Bo Nickal (185.8) vs. Rodolfo Vieira (186)</li>
<li>Roman Kopylov (185.2) vs. Gregory Rodrigues (185.8)</li>
<li>Erin Blanchfield (125.8) vs. Tracy Cortez (125.6)</li>
<li>Malcolm Wellmaker (143.6) vs. Ethyn Ewing (145.2)</li>
</ul><h3>Early preliminary card (ESPN+ at 6 p.m. ET)</h3><ul>
<li>Kyle Daukaus (186) vs. Gerald Meerschaert (185.6)</li>
<li>Pat Sabatini (145.6) vs. Chepe Mariscal (145.6)</li>
<li>Angela Hill (115.6) vs. Fatima Kline (115.4)</li>
<li>Baisangur Susurkaev (185.2) vs. Eric McConico (185.6)</li>
<li>Viachelsav Borshchev (155.8) vs. Matheus Camilo (155.8)</li>
</ul><p><em>* Missed lightweight limit by 1.2 pounds, forfeits 20% of purse</em></p>

NEW YORK, NEW YORK - NOVEMBER 14: Islam Makhachev of Russia poses on the scale during the UFC 322 official weigh-ins at New York Hilton Midtown on November 14, 2025 in New York, New York.

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UFC 322 weigh-in results: Della Maddalena, Makhachev cleared for title fight

UFC 322 is upon us.  In Saturday's main event, former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev makes ...

<p>UFC 322 is upon us.</p><p>In Saturday's main event, former lightweight champion Islam Makhachev makes the move to welterweight to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for a second title. And in the co-headliner, women's flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko squares off with former strawweight queen Zhang Weili in a long-awaited superfight.</p><p>Here are three key storylines ahead of the UFC's return to Madison Square Garden in New York.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><h3>Makhachev chasing history</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765676/cropped_GettyImages-2188609481.jpg?ts=1737035339" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765676/w220xh124_GettyImages-2188609481.jpg?ts=1737035339 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765676/w320xh180_GettyImages-2188609481.jpg?ts=1737035339 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765676/w640xh360_GettyImages-2188609481.jpg?ts=1737035339 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765676/w768xh432_GettyImages-2188609481.jpg?ts=1737035339 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/765676/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2188609481.jpg?ts=1737035339 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Chris Unger / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Makhachev is already one of the greatest lightweights - and fighters, period - of this generation. But on Saturday, he has an opportunity to solidify his position among MMA's all-time greats.</p><p>With a victory over Della Maddalena, Makhachev would become the 11th two-division champion in UFC history (or 12th if Zhang wins) and just the second to do so as a lightweight and welterweight after BJ Penn.</p><p>Perhaps even more notably, Makhachev can tie Anderson Silva's long-standing record for the longest winning streak in UFC history (16). Makhachev is currently tied for second with former welterweight champion Kamaru Usman with 15 consecutive wins. Silva, a former middleweight champ, has held the record since 2012.</p><p>Many of the sport's legends - from Jon Jones and Demetrious Johnson to Georges St-Pierre and Khabib Nurmagomedov - have tried to tie Silva's record, but all have failed. If Makhachev does what nobody else has been able to, it would leave no doubt he's one of the greatest fighters we've seen - perhaps even greater than Nurmagomedov, his mentor and coach.</p><h3>Shevchenko-Zhang is a legacy fight for both women</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769667/cropped_GettyImages-2198473286.jpg?ts=1739133788" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769667/w220xh124_GettyImages-2198473286.jpg?ts=1739133788 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769667/w320xh180_GettyImages-2198473286.jpg?ts=1739133788 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769667/w640xh360_GettyImages-2198473286.jpg?ts=1739133788 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769667/w768xh432_GettyImages-2198473286.jpg?ts=1739133788 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/769667/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2198473286.jpg?ts=1739133788 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Jeff Bottari / UFC / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>In MMA, there are superfights and then there are <em>superfights</em>. Shevchenko-Zhang is the latter.</p><p>Two of the greatest and most dominant women's fighters in UFC history, Shevchenko and Zhang will seek the defining moment of their careers when they square off in Saturday's co-main event.</p><p>Shevchenko has been virtually unstoppable in two reigns as the women's flyweight champion, defending the title eight times. She's only lost once at this weight - to Alexa Grasso in 2023 - and went on to avenge that defeat a year later.</p><p>Zhang has also established herself as a dominant champion. She regained the strawweight title in 2022 and defended it three times before finally deciding to move up to challenge Shevchenko.</p><p>While Shevchenko-Zhang may not have the same kind of box-office draw, this matchup is on par with the 2018 bout between Amanda Nunes and Cris Cyborg and any other superfight we've seen in the sport.</p><h3>A showcase for the welterweight division</h3><figure class="article-segment--image"><img src="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805587/cropped_GettyImages-2205806129.jpg?ts=1760467626" srcset="https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805587/w220xh124_GettyImages-2205806129.jpg?ts=1760467626 220w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805587/w320xh180_GettyImages-2205806129.jpg?ts=1760467626 320w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805587/w640xh360_GettyImages-2205806129.jpg?ts=1760467626 640w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805587/w768xh432_GettyImages-2205806129.jpg?ts=1760467626 768w, https://assets-cms.thescore.com/uploads/image/file/805587/w1080xh607_GettyImages-2205806129.jpg?ts=1760467626 1080w"><figcaption class="article-segment--image-caption"> <span class="article-segment--image-attribution">Adam Davy - PA Images / PA Images / Getty</span></figcaption></figure><p>Della Maddalena-Makhachev isn't the only marquee welterweight bout set for UFC 322.</p><p>In addition to Saturday's main event, Sean Brady faces Michael Morales in a potential No. 1 contender bout, and former welterweight champion Leon Edwards returns against Carlos Prates. (This isn't to mention that one week later at UFC Qatar, former champ Belal Muhammad will look to get back on track against Ian Machado Garry.)</p><p>There's a bit of a logjam at the top of the division right now (at least two or three fighters arguably deserve title shots), but we'll have a lot more clarity after UFC 322 is over. Welterweight is one of the deepest, most intriguing divisions in the sport, and it will be on full display at Madison Square Garden.</p>

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - JANUARY 18: Islam Makhachev of Russia reacts after a submission victory against Renato Moicano of Brazil in the UFC lightweight championship fight during the UFC 311 event at Intuit Dome on January 18, 2025 in Inglewood, California.

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3 biggest storylines ahead of UFC 322

Los Angeles Clippers star Kawhi Leonard still isn't ready to return as he deals with a sprained r...

<p>Los Angeles Clippers star <a data-in-app-uri="thescore:///nba/players/4200" href="https://thescore.com/nba/players/4200">Kawhi Leonard</a> still isn't ready to return as he deals with a sprained right ankle and foot.</p><p>Leonard, who missed his fifth straight game Wednesday, has been out of action since suffering his injuries in a 120-119 loss to the Miami Heat on Nov. 3.</p><p>"With Kawhi, it wasn't just an ankle sprain," Clippers president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank said Wednesday, according to <a href="https://www.espn.com/nba/story/_/id/46949879/clippers-kawhi-leonard-dealing-ankle-foot-sprains">ESPN's Ohm Youngmisuk</a>. "He also had a significant sprain in his foot, as well. When he sprained his ankle, it kind of triggered a mechanism in his foot.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>"He is making really good progress. We will continue to treat him. We will have a better feel for it next week."</p><p>Frank said the Clippers and Leonard consulted three doctors regarding the injury.</p><p>"Everyone has concurred in terms of what it is," Frank said. "It is just going to take a period of time to get the inflammation down and start to ramp back up on the court. So, he is doing two- to three-a-day treatments, and it is just going to take a little time."</p><p>Leonard will travel with the Clippers as they begin a seven-game road trip Friday against the Dallas Mavericks.</p>

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 3: Kawhi Leonard #2 of the LA Clippers looks on during the game against the Miami Heat on November 3, 2025 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 2025 NBAE

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Kawhi still sidelined with ankle, foot sprains: Will 'take a little time'

Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua are finalizing a deal for a heavyweight fight in December in Miami, ...

<p>Jake Paul and Anthony Joshua are finalizing a deal for a heavyweight fight in December in Miami, sources told <a href="https://x.com/MikeCoppinger/status/1988685985614618625">The Ring's Mike Coppinger</a>.</p><p>The event would reportedly be streamed live on Netflix. It's unclear whether Paul-Joshua would be sanctioned as a professional bout or an exhibition.</p><p>Paul was scheduled to face WBA lightweight champion Gervonta "Tank" Davis in an exhibition on Nov. 14, but the fight was canceled last week after a civil lawsuit was filed against Davis in Miami-Dade County. Most Valuable Promotions CEO Nakisa Bidarian said Paul would fight someone else before the end of the year.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Now, the YouTube star turned prizefighter is pivoting to what would be the toughest test of his career against Joshua, a former two-time heavyweight champion.</p><p>Joshua, 36, hasn't stepped into the ring since September 2024, when he suffered a knockout loss to Daniel Dubois. However, prior to that, the Englishman was riding a four-fight winning streak, including a devastating knockout against former UFC champion Francis Ngannou. Joshua holds a 28-4 pro record with 25 knockouts.</p><p>Paul is coming off a unanimous decision win over former WBC middleweight champion Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. in June. The 28-year-old Ohio native has won six in a row, including a lackluster decision over heavyweight legend Mike Tyson a year ago. Paul holds a 12-1 record with seven knockouts.</p>

ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 28: Jake Paul looks on during his fight against Julio Cesar Chavez Jr at Honda Center on June 28, 2025 in Anaheim, California.

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Report: Paul, Joshua finalizing December fight

Islam Makhachev's coach is already thinking about what could come after UFC 322.  Makhachev, one ...

<p>Islam Makhachev's coach is already thinking about what could come after UFC 322.</p><p>Makhachev, one of the greatest lightweight champions of this generation, moves up to the welterweight division Saturday to challenge Jack Della Maddalena for a second title. His coach, Javier Mendez, said he would like to see Makhachev square off with either Kamaru Usman or Ilia Topuria should he emerge victorious at Madison Square Garden in New York.</p><p>"The one guy I think probably deserves (a title shot) more than anybody based on his title run when he was the champ, Kamaru Usman," Mendez told "<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ymkpdk0Nyp0">Submission Radio</a>" earlier this week. "I think he's the guy. Look at what he just did with (Joaquin) Buckley. He stopped the hype train and did it in impressive fashion. I would think that his (name) has got to be in the hat as a contender for that title."</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Ranked No. 5 in the 170-pound division, Usman returned to form earlier this year in a unanimous decision win over Buckley, snapping a three-fight losing streak. The 38-year-old is one of the greatest welterweights of all time, having held the welterweight belt from 2019-22 and successfully defending it five times.</p><p>The other opponent that intrigues Mendez is Topuria, the current lightweight and former featherweight champion. A superfight between Makhachev and Topuria was on the UFC's radar earlier this year, but it didn't materialize because Makhachev decided to move up in weight instead. Topuria said in June he would lobby for a welterweight title shot if Makhachev dethroned Della Maddalena.</p><p>"If you're asking me what the fans are gonna want to see, I'm gonna have to go Topuria," Mendez said. "If we manage to get the win like we're expecting and wanting to, I would think that - (UFC CEO) Dana (White)'s all about creating the most, biggest buzz, and I think the biggest buzz is Topuria if he goes up in weight. ... Right now, I can see so many different scenarios happening, but those two are at the top of the list, in my opinion."</p>

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Makhachev's coach eyes Usman, Topuria after UFC 322

Welterweight prospect Gabriel Bonfim scored a highlight-reel finish in Saturday's UFC Fight Night...

<p>Welterweight prospect Gabriel Bonfim scored a highlight-reel finish in Saturday's UFC Fight Night main event, knocking out Randy Brown at the UFC Apex in Las Vegas.</p><p>The stoppage came at the 1:40 mark of the second round.</p><p>Bonfim sent Brown crashing to the canvas with a vicious knee. Brown immediately covered up, but referee Mark Smith stepped in before Bonfim could land any follow-up shots. Brown protested the stoppage afterward.</p><div class="the-score-article-ad-unit"></div><p>Bonfim, the No. 14-ranked welterweight, extended his winning streak to four and improved to 6-1 in the UFC. Afterward, the 28-year-old Brazilian called out former interim champion Colby Covington.</p><p>Brown, unranked at 170 pounds, entered Saturday's main event off a knockout win over Nicolas Dalby in April. The 35-year-old is 1-2 in his last three outings.</p>

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 08: Gabriel Bonfim of Brazil reacts after a knockout victory against Randy Brown of Jamaica in a welterweight fight during the UFC Fight Night event at UFC APEX on November 08, 2025 in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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Bonfim KOs Brown with knee in UFC main event

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