The latest episode of Ringside Report MMA brings fans an in‐depth look at the upcoming UFC 315 & 313 events. With a mix of fighter analysis, ticket pricing insights, and bold predictions, the hosts share their excitement about the UFC’s return to Montreal and preview a highly anticipated fight night. Whether you’re a longtime UFC fan or new to the scene, this episode gives you a clear picture of what to expect from the card and how the rising stars might shape the future of the sport.
Don’t miss the chance to watch the episode replay on YouTube (above), Rumble, Twitch, or Kick, and listen on your favourite podcast platform, such as Spotify, below. Also, join us for our live watch-along of UFC 315 on Saturday, May 8th at 10 PM Eastern – why watch alone when you can share the experience? Become a channel member at membership.ringsidereport.net to support our coverage and enjoy exclusive content.
Rising Stars and Underdog Opportunities – Spotlight on New Talent
The conversation kicked off with talk about fighters making their mark on the UFC stage. One topic that caught the hosts’ attention was the rise of a lesser-known fighter stepping into a main event role. The hosts noted that while some fighters have long been established, the UFC is now giving opportunities to emerging talents.
“This is his first time in a major card – coming in as an underdog at plus 180 – and I may pick him again tonight,” said Dave Simon with excitement about the fighter’s potential. His confidence was clear as he highlighted the fighter’s background: “He’s from Kazakhstan. He’s 21 and 2, and his name really stands out.” These comments show the growing interest in up-and-comers who might turn the odds in their favour.
Fred Garcia added his two cents, “You say that, Dave, but I think he’s been on our radar just by his name alone.” His view reinforces that a fighter’s brand can sometimes carry as much weight as their in-cage performance.
Meanwhile, AJ D’Alesio pointed out the unique opportunity in betting on an underdog, noting, “Betting on the underdog never hurts, especially when you get a chance to pick a future star.” The hosts agree that while the odds might not always favour the less experienced fighter, the potential upside makes him an exciting pick for fans and bettors.
Audience members joined the discussion, with one fan commenting, “I’ve been waiting to see a fighter like him rise through the ranks!” Another added, “Underdogs often surprise us. I’m curious to see if he can keep up this momentum.”
The segment underscored how the UFC continues to provide opportunities for fresh talent. The hosts’ enthusiasm suggests that this fighter could soon become a household name in the flyweight division. Their combined insights point to a shift in the balance where emerging fighters are carving their niche in a competitive landscape.
Montreal UFC Legacy and Ticket Insights – A City’s Long-Awaited Return
Most of the episode focused on the historic significance of the UFC returning to Montreal. The hosts reminisced about the golden era when the UFC regularly hosted events in their hometown. Dave Simon shared, “It’s been 10 years since the UFC was here. Back then, we used to have multiple events each year.” His nostalgic tone reminded fans of the electrifying atmosphere and the high energy these events brought to the city.
Fred Garcia recalled the event history, stating, “I read they did eight shows over seven years – that really made Montreal a hotbed for UFC action.” This history not only adds to the excitement of the present but also explains why Montreal fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming UFC 315.
Ticket pricing was another hot topic during the discussion. Dave Simon expressed his surprise at the high cost of attending these events: “The cheapest ticket is around $300. Ouch, that really hurts!” His comment was met with agreement from the audience, one of whom remarked, “I can’t believe people are paying that much. It’s wild!”
Yet, the hosts saw a silver lining. AJ D’Alesio noted, “Many fans are coming from the US—Boston, New York—and they find it quite appealing. The favourable exchange rate makes it worthwhile.” This perspective shows that despite the high price tags, Montreal’s international allure and rich UFC history still draw fans in.
The discussion also touched on the market strategy behind these high prices. Dave Simon explained, “Because the UFC only comes to our city once every few years, they know fans will pay almost anything.” Such insights underline the tactical pricing and scheduling that have long defined the UFC’s approach in Montreal.
Audience members contributed their views on the atmosphere and pricing. One fan commented, “The experience must be unforgettable, even if you pay a premium.” Another fan noted, “Montreal has always been electric for UFC events. I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
The segment concluded with a shared sentiment among the hosts and viewers: Montreal’s legacy in UFC is undeniable. Even if the cost is steep, the opportunity to witness history in the making is a once-in-a-generation experience.
Championship Battles and Fighter Predictions – The Main Event Analysis
The heart of the discussion centered on the main event and championship battles that define a UFC card. The hosts provided a detailed breakdown of the current state of the divisions and what might be expected from the upcoming bouts.
One of the key points was the absence of a long-awaited fighter who many fans hoped would headline the main event. Dave Simon lamented, “I was really expecting to see Shavkat Rakhmonov in the title fight. His absence is a big letdown.” His disappointment was palpable as he explained how the match-up would have elevated the excitement around the championship bout.
AJ D’Alesio agreed, remarking, “I’ve been talking about this fighter for so long. His presence would have given the fight that extra spark we needed.” Yet, he also acknowledged that the current lineup still has potential. “Manon Fiorot is set to face Valentina Shevchenko in the co-main event for the flyweight title, and I think that fight could crown a new champion,” he added enthusiastically.
Fred Garcia weighed in with his analysis on the welterweight division, saying, “Belal Muhammad and Jack
Della Maddalena are in for an interesting fight, though I have mixed feelings about the match-up.” His comments revealed a tension between respecting the skills of each fighter and the desire to see higher-profile names in action. He continued, “Jack might easily win, but I’d love to see someone like Shavkat step in next.”
Throughout this section, the audience was active. One viewer noted, “The absence of Shavkat really shifts the dynamics. It’s going to be a different kind of fight.” Another fan stated, “I’m excited about Manon Fiorot. She’s a great fighter, and this could be her crowning moment.”
The hosts also debated the issue of star power in the UFC. Dave Simon mentioned, “We don’t have enough big-draw champions right now. It’s a tough market when champions aren’t selling the cards.” This comment sparked a lively discussion among the viewers, with several noting that while the talent is there, the marketability might need a boost.
Despite some uncertainties, the overall tone was optimistic about the fights on the card. The hosts agreed that while the matchups may not be perfect, there are plenty of interesting bouts that should keep the fans engaged throughout the night. They also emphasized that every fight offers a chance for the underdog to shine or for established fighters to solidify their legacy.
UFC 313 Preview and Viewing Plans – A Look Ahead to the Vegas Card
Looking forward, the episode also previewed UFC 313, scheduled to take place in Vegas. Although the current discussion was mostly about UFC 315 in Montreal, the conversation shifted as the hosts started speculating about the upcoming fights in Vegas.
Dave Simon stated, “Next weekend at UFC 313, we have a matchup that I would be going bananas over if it were in Montreal.” His enthusiasm for the Vegas card was evident as he contrasted the atmosphere between the two cities. “Vegas offers a different vibe – cheaper tickets, more regular events – which might even win over some of us who are used to the Montreal experience,” he explained.
AJ D’Alesio added, “I’m excited to see if Alex Pereira can shine in the stand-up fight. There’s a lot of talk about whether he can take on anyone in that format.” His prediction sparked interest among the viewers, and many agreed that the stand-up battle could be a game-changer.
Meanwhile, Fred Garcia emphasized the importance of tactical match-ups, saying, “I’m leaning towards picking Pereira if it goes to the ground, but it really depends on whether the fight stays upright.” His analysis highlighted the technical aspects of the fight, noting that even in a sport as unpredictable as MMA, strategy and style matter immensely.
The audience feedback for this segment was enthusiastic. One fan wrote, “Vegas fights are always a treat—I love the energy there!” Another added, “I’m looking forward to the watch-along. It’s more fun when you’re with a community.”
UFC 313 Event Context
The reshuffled co-main event will support an already compelling UFC 313 card headlined by Alex Pereira defending his light heavyweight championship against Magomed Ankalaev1. Other notable bouts on the card include Ias min Lucindo facing Amanda Lemos, Jalin Turner taking on Ignacio Bahamondes, and Curtis Blaydes squaring off with Rizvan Kuniev8. The event will take place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, continuing the UFC’s tradition of hosting major cards in its home city.
The Gaethje-Fiziev rematch will now be contested over three rounds rather than the five rounds originally planned for the Gaethje-Hooker matchup1. This reduction in fight duration could potentially impact the strategic approaches of both fighters, particularly given their first encounter was also a three-round affair that went the distance. The shorter fight might favor Fiziev, who showed fatigue in the later rounds of their first meeting, while Gaethje has demonstrated impressive cardio in five-round contests throughout his career.
Implications for the Lightweight Division
The outcome of this rematch could significantly reshape the upper echelon of the UFC’s lightweight division. With current champion Islam Makhachev having expressed interest in facing Gaethje, who remains one of the few top contenders he has yet to defeat, a victory would position “The Highlight” favorably for a third attempt at undisputed gold5. Makhachev has publicly stated his desire to fight the fan-favorite Gaethje, making this bout particularly consequential for the division’s title picture.
For Fiziev, this opportunity arrives at a critical juncture in his career. After building impressive momentum with a six-fight winning streak that included victories over notable opponents like Rafael dos Anjos, his career trajectory has stalled with consecutive losses. A win over Gaethje would not only snap this losing streak but would represent his most significant victory to date, potentially earning him consideration for title eliminator bouts against other top contenders like Arman Tsarukyan or Charles Oliveira.
The lightweight division remains one of the UFC’s most competitive and talent-rich weight classes, with several fighters jockeying for position near the top. This short-notice replacement fight, born of unfortunate circumstances, has unexpectedly created one of the most intriguing storylines in the division as Fiziev seeks redemption and Gaethje aims to maintain his elite status at 36 years of age.
Summing Up UFC 313
Dan Hooker’s withdrawal left many fans disappointed who were looking forward to his fight with Justin Gaethje. However, his exit set the stage for a rematch with Rafael Fiziev, bringing its own drama and high stakes. Nearly two years after their first meeting, these top strikers are set to face off again. Fiziev is determined to seek revenge this time, while Gaethje aims to bounce back from his loss to Max Holloway.
The situation is not ideal for a standard training camp, especially for Fiziev, who has been dealing with a serious injury. Still, the readiness of both fighters to take on this risky bout shows the fighting spirit that has made them fan favorites.
With UFC 313 on the horizon, this rematch is a clear example of the unpredictable nature of combat sports, where injuries and sudden changes often create new and unexpected stories. Whether their second encounter will echo the thrills of their first meeting or forge an entirely new narrative remains uncertain, but one thing is clear. When these elite strikers step into the octagon on March 8, the outcome could dramatically reshape the lightweight division.
This part of the episode also featured a call to action: the hosts reminded fans to check out the UFC Fight Club via ufcfightclub.ringsidereport.net for presale access. “Sign up to UFC fight club dot ringsidereport dot net for access to presale tickets,” declared Dave Simon emphatically.
Finally, the hosts encouraged everyone to join the live watch along of UFC 313 in Vegas on Saturday, May 8th, at 10 PM Eastern. They explained, “It’s not just about watching the fight – it’s about experiencing it with a community of like-minded fans. Come join us!” This invitation underlines the interactive and communal spirit that the Ringside Report Network aims to cultivate.
Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts
The episode provided a wealth of information and opinions about the current state and future prospects of the UFC. The hosts covered several key topics:
- Emerging Talent: The spotlight on underdogs and rising fighters shows that new talent is making waves in the UFC. Their potential upset value and marketability are generating buzz.
- Montreal’s UFC Legacy: The nostalgic look at UFC’s history in Montreal, combined with insights into ticket pricing and market strategy, underscores the city’s special place in MMA history.
- Championship Predictions: Detailed discussions about main event match-ups reveal both excitement and disappointment among fans. The absence of certain stars, like Shavkat, is felt, yet the card still promises competitive and intriguing bouts.
- Upcoming UFC 313: The preview of the Vegas card hints at a different energy and more accessible ticket pricing, making it a must-watch event for fans. Tactical predictions and the community feel add to the anticipation.
The hosts’ genuine passion for the sport is evident throughout the episode. Their willingness to share both the highs and lows of fighter performance, ticket costs, and match-up dynamics provides a balanced perspective. While some debates remain unresolved, the excitement for the upcoming events is unmistakable.
For those eager for more, watch the full episode replay on your preferred streaming platform and check out our podcast. Become a channel member at membership.ringsidereport.net to enjoy exclusive content and support our work. And don’t forget: join us for the live watch along of UFC 313 on Saturday, May 8th, at 10 PM Eastern – it’s always more fun when you’re part of the action.
The discussion highlights that the UFC continues delivering thrilling events despite challenges like high ticket prices and unexpected fighter changes. Fans remain excited about the legacy of past events and the promise of future fights. The passionate debate among the hosts, from “I may pick him again tonight” to “I’m leaning towards picking Pereira,” shows that there’s always room for spirited discussion and differing opinions in the world of MMA.
Ultimately, whether you’re rooting for an underdog or a champion, the essence of the UFC is the unpredictable nature of each fight. The high stakes, tactical match-ups, and the ever-present element of surprise keep the sport fresh and exciting. This episode of Ringside Report MMA captures that excitement and gives fans plenty to talk about until the next fight night.
Remember, every fight is an opportunity to make history. The upcoming events, especially UFC 315 in Montreal and UFC 313 in Vegas, are set to provide memorable moments for MMA fans around the globe. Mark your calendars, set your alarms, and get ready to witness the action live—because the octagon is where legends are born.
