MMA Tournaments: Why Fighters Secretly Crave the Format They Publicly Hate (UFC, PFL)

Look, let’s get something straight right off the bat — MMA tournaments are the combat sports equivalent of reality TV. Everyone claims they hate them, everyone says they’re beneath “real” competition, and yet somehow every fighter worth their salt ends up begging for an invitation when the checks start getting written.
But here’s the reality that those same purists conveniently ignore: tournaments solve problems that traditional MMA booking can’t touch. They force action, build resumes in compressed time, and create legendary moments that single fights never could have delivered. Fighters hate uncertainty, but they love opportunity, and tournaments provide both in equal measure.
Why is UFC 315 Struggling? Plus, UFC Des Moines Picks!

Get the lowdown on the latest in combat sports with Ringside Report MMA! This episode dives into the upcoming UFC Des Moines fights, the shockingly high ticket prices and slow sales for UFC 315 in Montreal, and the return of Jeremy Stephens. Hear the hosts’ fight predictions and their take on why UFC 315 is struggling.
UFC Books O’Malley vs Merab 2 Rematch, But Can They Build Stars Like Wrestling Does?

Ringside Report MMA reacts to O’Malley vs Merab 2 being booked for UFC 316. Hosts discuss the PFL season opener featuring Fred Dupras, analyze the UFC’s lack of big fights, potential Netflix deal, and preview UFC Vegas: Emmett vs Murphy with predictions. Is Conor McGregor done for good?
Francis Ngannou’s PFL Debut: 2024 Return to MMA and What to Expect

Francis Ngannou returns to MMA this weekend in the PFL, looking to prove he’s still a force to be reckoned with. Get all the details and UFC Fight Night picks here!
McGregor’s Return, Hill’s KO, and Makhachev’s Dominance

The panel thoroughly examined the hottest topics in the fight world in the latest Ringside Report MMA show episode. From Conor McGregor’s surprising announcement to Jamal Hill’s electrifying knockout, the show was brimming with insights and analysis. The hosts, Dave Simon and Fred Garcia, alongside the frequently disconnected AJ D’Alesio, confidently shared their unique perspectives […]
Tuivasa vs. Tybura Betting Picks and a New PFL Champ in the Making

Unpack ‘Tuivasa vs. Tybura’ with expert picks & discover the next PFL champ in our latest episode. Dive in for top MMA insights & predictions!
The Enigma of Conor McGregor’s Next Move

Speculation abounds on Conor McGregor’s UFC future and potential matchups. Will the notorious one return to the octagon? Insights on his impact on the lightweight division
UFC 300 Fight Card Additions and Some Not Happening

With the latest UFC 300 fight card additions, the Ultimate Fighting Championship approaches its landmark event, the new bouts reflect the unpredictable nature of the sport, with several noteworthy bouts being added while others face cancellation.
Will GSP Fight Nick Diaz at UFC 300?

There’s been discussion this week about the potential rematch and Will GSP Fight Nick Diaz at UFC 300; ourcommentators, Dave Simon and AJ D’Alesio, express varied opinions
Aggressive PFL Buys Bellator

The landscape of combat sports has undergone a major shift with the acquisition of Bellator by the PFL. This has ushered in a new era that you will directly witness. Bellator’s future is now closely linked with the growth trajectory of the PFL, leading to a challenge to UFC’s dominance that is reshaping the entire MMA scene. As fans, we are now part of a community that is on the verge of experiencing unprecedented matchups and an expanded roster that can rival the best in the world.