MMA
UFC Fight Night: Aljamain Sterling vs. Youssef Zalal headlines April 25 at UFC ApexUFC returns to APEX with featherweight fights: Aljamain Sterling vs. Youssef Zalal and Arnold Allen vs. Melquizael Costa
Published
3 weeks agoon
(Photo: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC)The Ultimate Fighting Championship will take place in Las Vegas and deliver two electrifying fight cards headlined by key featherweight bouts featuring top contenders looking to climb the rankings.
First, UFC Fight Night: Sterling vs. Zalal is taking place April 25 at the UFC Apex facility in Las Vegas. The event will continue a few weeks later UFC Fight Night: Allen vs. Costa ON May 16also in APEX.
In both events, preliminary fights will start at 5:00 p.m. Eastern time / 2:00 p.m. Polish timewith main tabs starting with 20:00 ET / 17:00 Polish time. Fans can stream all the action live on Paramount+.
Former bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling will make his first appearance in 2026 when he faces rising challenger Youssef Zalal in a featherweight main event.
Sterling (25-5), who fights out of Uniondale, Recent York, holds the record most wins in UFC history in the bantamweight division (14).. After moving up to the featherweight division in 2024, he already has impressive wins over top title challengers Calvin Kattar and Brian Ortega.
Sterling, currently ranked No. 5 at 145 pounds, hopes another victory will take him closer to winning a title in his second weight class.
On the other side of the octagon will be Zalal (18-5-1) from Morocco, who has been experiencing a remarkable rebirth since returning to the UFC in 2024. Fighting out of Colorado, Zalal performed admirably. five wins in a rowincluding four reports against quality opponents such as Josh Emmett, Jack Shore, Jarno Errens and Billy Quarantillo.
With momentum on his side, Zalal looks to pick up the biggest win of his career and break into the top five in the featherweight division.
Next month, Englishman Arnold Allen returns to action against rising Brazilian challenger Melquizael Costa.
Allen (20-4), currently ranked No. 8 in the featherweight division, has long been considered one of the most unsafe fighters in the weight class. The Suffolk native has wins over elite fighters including Giga Chikadze, Dan Hooker and Sodiq Yusuff.
Costa (26-7), fighting from São Paulo, Brazil, enters the fight a a six-game winning streak. Known for his aggressive finishing ability, he secured breaks in the first round over respected players such as Dan Ige, Morgan Charriere and Andre Fili.
Costa is now going to make the most critical statement of his career by handing Allen a decisive defeat.
Several fascinating matchups round out the April 25 card:
- Third-ranked women’s bantamweight Norma Dumont will face No. 11 Joselyne Edwards
- Montel Jackson meets bantamweight veteran Raoni Barcelos
- Lithe action between Rafa Garcia and Alexander Hernandez
- Davey Grant welcomes Adrian Juan Martinetti to the UFC
- Women’s strawweight fighters Talita Alencar vs. Julia Polastri
- Middleweight Rodolfo Vieira vs. Eric McConico
- Heavyweight grappling ace Marcus Buchecha vs. Ryan Spann
- Flyweight Jafel Filho vs. Lucas Rocha
- Mayra Bueno Silva will face undefeated Michelle Montague
- Middleweight Jackson McVey vs. Sedriques Dumas
The event, which will take place on May 16, will also feature a wealthy lineup of fights:
- Featherweight Dooho Choi vs. Daniel Santos
- Bantamweight Malcolm Wellmaker vs. Juan Diaz
- Welterweight Jeremiah Wells vs. Nicolas Dalby
- Women’s Bantamweight Ketlen Vieira vs. Jacqueline Cavalcanti
- Lightweight Trey Ogden vs. Thomas Gantt
- Lithe heavyweight Modestas Bukauskas vs. Rodolfo Bellato
- Middleweight Cody Brundage vs. Andre Petroski
- Strawweight Shauna Bannon vs. Nicolle Caliari
- Flyweight Daniel Barez vs. Luis Gurule
- Timothy Cuamba vs. Timothy Cuamba Benardo Sopaj bantamweight
- Lithe heavyweight Tuco Tokkos vs. Ivan Erslan
- Strawweights Alice Ardelean vs. Polyana Viana
You may like
Gyms thrive when they create a forceful identity that members recognize and respect. Branded merchandise can reinforce this identity every time someone wears a shirt or sports bag. Members feel proud to represent a gym that supports their training goals and lifestyle. This visibility enhances the gym’s presence within the facility and among the local fitness community. Let’s take a look at why gyms benefit from selling branded merchandise and why yours should start this initiative.
Turn your members into a walking promotion
Each item of branded clothing serves as a mobile advertisement for your gym. When members wear your logo in competitions, training sessions or during everyday activities, they expand your reach without additional marketing costs.
Exposure matters in combat sports communities where recent members are gained through word of mouth. Gyms that exploit this strategy often see an boost in inquiries from people who have seen the brand in action.
Create additional revenue streams
Selling branded merchandise allows gyms to generate income beyond membership and class fees. High-quality equipment will appeal to athletes, fitness enthusiasts and fans who want to support their training environment.
Many gyms overlook how to do this custom promotional products grow your business through consistent sales with low effort. This approach ensures financial stability while supporting long-term growth.
Strengthen member loyalty and community
Branded merchandise creates a sense of belonging that keeps members engaged. Competitors and athletes often have a deep connection with their gym, and wearing branded equipment strengthens this connection.
A shared identity builds camaraderie across classes, skill levels and disciplines. Sturdy communities retain members longer and encourage them to invite their friends to the gym.
Support players and competitive teams
Combat sports gyms often send athletes to competitions where branding plays a key role. Athletes wearing gym uniforms represent their training camp with pride and professionalism. Visibility increases a gym’s reputation regionally and nationally. A consistent brand presence helps gyms stand out in crowded fight scenes.
Popular Swag items that perform well
Gyms should focus on practical and robust items that members exploit regularly. Functional equipment increases visibility while providing real value to customers. Consider offering items that align with your workout routines and lifestyle habits, such as:
- Branded protectors and combat shorts for training and competition.
- Sweatshirts and T-shirts for everyday wear and travel.
- Gym bags and water bottles for everyday training.
- Hats and hats for everyday branding outside the gym.
These products combine utility with promotion, making them effortless to sell and widely used.
Improve your professional image and credibility
A gym that sells consistent, well-designed products appears organized and professional. This perception matters when attracting grave athletes and potential partners. Tidy branding signals that the gym takes training, coaching and business operations seriously. Credibility increases when a brand looks consistent across apparel, social media and events.
Gyms that invest in branded gadgets position themselves for stronger growth and recognition. Goods build identity, boost revenues, and strengthen social bonds between members. Combat sports environments benefit even more from noticeable branding due to their competitive and social nature.
MMA
BRAVE CF returns to Slovenia on June 6 with two world title fights at Hala Tivoli BRAVE CF returns to Slovenia with two explosive world title fights in Ljubljana
Published
1 week agoon
April 22, 2026
LUBLANA, Slovenia — BRAVE Combat Federation returns to Slovenia with a championship show Saturday, June 6at Hala Tivoli in cooperation with World Freefight Challenge.
this groundbreaking event will take place two fights for the BRAVE CF world championshipand the heavyweight and airy heavyweight titles will be at stake in an event that promises to be one of the organization’s most significant European events in 2026.
Pavel Dailidko defends the heavyweight crown against Miha Frlic
In the main event, reigning BRAVE CF Heavyweight World Champion Pavel Dailidko will face undefeated No. 1 ranked contender Miha Frlic.
Known as “The Experiment”, Dailidko enters the fight in impressive style Record 11-2and each of his victories ended by knockout.
Since joining BRAVE CF in 2022, the Lithuanian powerhouse has disappeared 6-1winning the inaugural heavyweight championship at the event BRAVE CF 88 in September 2024 after stopping Patryk Dubiela in the first round.
He recently defended his title at the gala BRAVE CF 99 in Vilnius, stopping Grégory Robinet in less than one round.
“I have worked tirelessly to reach this level and I am still far from finished,” Dailidko declared.
Opposite him is a challenger from his hometown of Frlic, who brings an unblemished presence 7-0-1 record for the biggest fight of his career.
The Slovenian challenger deserved to fight for the title BRAVE CF 104 in February, knocking out Samuele Di Guardo in the first round.
“This is the moment I’ve been working for my entire career. Competing for the world title in front of my people is an incredible honor,” said Frlic.
Erko Jun vs. Mohamed Said Maalem main event main event
In the co-main event, Erko Jun will defend the BRAVE CF airy heavyweight world title in a rematch with Mohamed Said Maalem.
Their first meeting at BRAVE CF 81 in April 2024 ended quickly as Jun scored a quick knockout victory.
Now the competition resumes for the championship.
Said Maalem has been one of the most experienced BRAVE CF veterans since 2019, and previously took part in world title fights.
“This is more than just a rematch for me; it’s a chance to make amends for the past and prove that I belong to the top,” said Said Maalem.
Jun returns to defend his crown after failing to become a two-division champion in BRAVE CF 96 in June 2025, where he challenged Mohammad Fakhreddine for the vacant middleweight title.
Earlier, the Bosnian striker won the airy heavyweight belt BRAVE CF 88 with a dominant performance over Alexander Wesner.
“I’m not just defending my world title; I’m defending the standards I set in this division,” Jun said.
“On June 6, I intend to impose my rhythm, control the distance and show that my evolution as a fighter has only made me more perilous.”
BRAVE CF’s return to Slovenia carries huge stakes
With two world championships on the horizon, BRAVE CF’s return to Slovenia is more than just another fight card.
It’s a decisive night where champions defend their legacy and challengers chase history.
On June 6, only the elite will survive at Hala Tivoli in Ljubljana.
MMA
John “Scrappy” Ramirez waits for a title shot as Bam Rodriguez weighs promotion John “Scrappy” Ramirez waits for Bam Rodriguez as the path to the title remains unclear
Published
1 week agoon
April 21, 2026
Los Angeles – John Ramirez has no shortage of ambition, but his path to a world title may depend on decisions beyond his control.
The No. 1 ranked WBA super flyweight fighter is currently in a tough situation as unified champion Jesse Rodriguez weighs a potential weight enhance. If “Bam” vacates the belt, Ramirez will finally be able to get his long-awaited chance at gold.
“I haven’t achieved my goal yet.”
Despite his rise in the rankings, Ramirez is still fueled by unfinished business.
“I have had some unique experiences over the last five years,” Ramirez said. “Deep down, I haven’t achieved my goal yet. I’m isolated and focused on this (winning the world title). I’ve had extra time to travel and train with friends like Regis Prograis in Texas to learn more and stay powerful.”
The Los Angeles native is positioned as one of the top contenders in the division, but the championship picture remains murky and uncertain.
I’m waiting for “Bam” Rodriguez
Rodriguez (23-0, 16 KO) currently holds unified championship titles in the entire league WBA, WBO and WBC in the super flyweight division. However, there is still speculation that he could move up to bantamweight in the face of fresh challenges.
Reports link Rodriguez to a potential fight with Antonio Vargas in June, while leaving the door open to a blockbuster fight with Japanese pound-for-pound star Naoya Inoue.
This uncertainty has created a bottleneck for players like Ramirez.
Be ready despite the uncertainty
Ramirez admits that waiting isn’t basic, but he remains focused on growing and staying vigorous.
“I just have to continue to trust the process in boxing. As a fighter, I don’t like to sit and wait for pieces to move. We have a plan that has options. Regardless of the situation, I will continue to improve and, most importantly, continue to win.”
Ramirez, 29, is in great shape and is determined not to let inactivity stunt his momentum.
Narrow options at the top
Even beyond the WBA title picture, the odds remain complicated.
IBF champion Wilbaldo Garcia Perez currently has a defense scheduled, while other potential opponents are either unavailable or tough to obtain due to rankings and promotion dynamics.
A high-profile fight against future Hall of Famer Roman Gonzalez has been announced, but activity and scheduling concerns make that fight uncertain.
Lessons from his lone defeat
Ramirez’s only professional loss came in 2024 to David Jimenez in a fight for the WBA interim title. He openly admits that it was a learning experience for him.
Since then, he has focused on growth, maturity and preparation for fresh opportunities.
“We will have answers to all these questions in due time.”
While the split resolves itself, Ramirez remains patient and disciplined.
“It’s not an basic task,” Ramirez admitted. “All these questions will be answered in due time. I can’t fight the unknown. I will continue to train strenuous, eat right and surround myself with good people.”
“I am grateful to my promoter, Golden Boy Promotions, for providing me with the right opportunities, and also to my manager (David Shu, 3 Point Management) who has given me the best fights since I turned pro. And of course to my trainer, Julian Chua… I see him every day and he has sacrificed so much for me.”
What’s next for Ramirez?
Ramirez last fought on January 16, earning a decision victory over Byron Rojas and maintaining his position as a top contender.
For now, his future depends on Rodriguez’s next move and how the super flyweight division shapes up in the coming months.
But one thing is clear: when the opportunity arises, “Scrappy” plans to be ready.
Floyd Mayweather Jr. faces passport ban due to $7.25 million IRS debt
FACE OFF: David Benavidez vs. Zurdo Ramirez • HEAD TO HEAD IN VEGAS | DAZN Boxing
Floyd Mayweather Sr. had only one man in mind when he mentioned the strongest boxer in boxing history
Pacquiao vs marquez competition: History of violence
Dmitry Menshikov statement in the February fight
Stephen Fulton Jr. becomes world champion in two weight by means of a decision
FACE OFF: David Benavidez vs. Zurdo Ramirez • HEAD TO HEAD IN VEGAS | DAZN Boxing
‘NO CHANCE, CONOR BENN!’ – Michael McKinson OPENS UP on his MAKE OR BREAK RING RETURN
Derrick James WARNS Errol Spence on Tim Tszyu Fight — Gives BEST ADVICE to Beat Him
Trending
-
Opinions & Features1 year agoPacquiao vs marquez competition: History of violence
-
MMA1 year agoDmitry Menshikov statement in the February fight
-
Results1 year agoStephen Fulton Jr. becomes world champion in two weight by means of a decision
-
Results1 year agoKeyshawn Davis Ko’s Berinchyk, when Xander Zayas moves to 21-0
-
Video1 year agoFrank Warren on Derek Chisora vs Otto Wallin – ‘I THOUGHT OTTO WOULD GIVE DEREK PROBLEMS!’
-
Analysis1 year agoRobert Garcia discusses the debate on the greatest Mexican warrior in history
-
Video1 year ago‘DEREK CHISORA RETIRE TONIGHT!’ – Anthony Yarde PLEADS for retirement after WALLIN
-
Results1 year agoLive: Catterall vs Barboza results and results card

