Welcome to MMA News Today, a daily feature running down the most interesting stories in the world of mixed martial arts. For May 28, 2024, we’re taking a look at:
- White praises McGregor’s business and fighting mind
- Vera has suspicions of Brazilian drug testing protocol
- Ulberg talks ahead of huge opportunity on June 29
Dana White Talks About What Makes Conor McGregor Special That You Simply Can’t Teach
During a recent appearance on the In Search of Excellence Podcast, UFC President Dana White spoke about the emergence of Conor McGregor as a superstar.
White recalls his first encounter with “The Notorious” where they met in Las Vegas after he was signed to the promotion.
From the moment he met him, the UFC boss knew that they had something special on their hands if the confident Irishman could back it up in the cage.
White also emphasised how despite coming from a working class background and cashing welfare cheques, McGregor is an excellent businessman with a great mind for the sport.
He credited the former UFC champ-champ with having the kind of instincts that you simply can’t teach, comparing him to one of the biggest combat sports stars that came before him.
“If you look at all the brands that he has built off of his brand, very very sharp kid. When you hear some speak, he’s very articulate about fighting. Again when you talk about fighter IQ, like Tyson, Conor’s fight IQ is off the charts.”
Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera Says He Thinks But Can’t Prove That José Aldo Was Juicing For Return Fight At UFC 301
José Aldo is back in the mix at bantamweight following his triumphant return to the Octagon earlier this month.
At UFC 301 in Brazil, the former featherweight great looked back to his best against Jonathan Martinez, earning himself a spot in the top 10 rankings in the process.
One fight that could be next for Aldo in this final run of his career is a rematch with Marlon “Chito” Vera who currently sits in the #4 spot.
Vera suffered a defeat to Aldo back in December of 2020 which he rebounded from with a great winning streak.
During a recent appearance on the Jaxxon Podcast, Vera suggested that he isn’t sure whether or not his former opponent was being tested for his return fight.
“Chito” didn’t say for certain but he does have his suspicions about what went down in Brazil.
“Check this out, fighting in Brazil, no USADA, those [Jose Aldo] traps were f****** thick so… José might go to those f****** farmers and [juice]. I mean they’re notorious for that, that’s normal in Brazil right? I don’t know, I cannot prove it but I mean you fight in Brazil, I don’t think they’re testing.”
Carlos Ulberg Speaks On Jamahal Hill Fight & Conor McGregor Inspiration
The opportunity to fight on June 29 at UFC 303 is going to be massive for all of the fighters on the undercard but especially Carlos Ulberg.
International Fight Week is set to be even bigger than usual thanks to the long-awaited return of Conor McGregor in the main event.
Ulberg wasn’t originally booked for the card but after calling his shot and putting in a great performance earlier this month, he got the opportunity to replace Khalil Rountree and face former champion Jamahal Hill.
In a recent interview with Engage on YouTube, he spoke for the first time about this fight and where he stands on McGregor and fighting on the same card as his comeback.
“We’re going up against Hill, I think he’s number three at the moment so that’s some really good news that puts us in a really good spot and I’m not going to pass that opportunity.”
“He is definitely a big star and to fight under that undercard would be amazing and if we can get the co-main event, then that’d be even more spectacular so yeah man.
“He goes in with confidence and that’s something that I like to lead into my fights. When I jump in that cage, it’s just me, my opponent and the preparation that I’ve had prior.”
Read more on the story here.
For more MMA news, check out:
- Conor McGregor Posts Defiant Message After Party Video Sparks Worry About UFC 303 Return: ‘Records & Jaws Are Getting Smashed’
- VIDEO: Justin Gaethje Shares First Training Footage Since Brutal KO Loss To Max Holloway At UFC 300
- Sean Strickland’s Coach On Who Would Win Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya Fight: ‘Dricus & I, We Talked…’
