Khabib Nurmagomedov predicts UFC 302, Jon Jones gives an update on injury, Paige VanZant fails to beat OF star Elle Brooke: MMA News Roundup
Khabib Nurmagomedov has shared his final prediction for the upcoming UFC 302 main event. Elsewhere, Paige VanZant couldn't outclass Elle Brooke on the Misfits Boxing 15 card, much to the surprise of many MMA fans.
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Khabib Nurmagomedov predicts UFC 302
Khabib Nurmagomedov returned to MMA coaching, at least temporarily, to help his friend and protege Islam Makhachev train for the upcoming title fight against Dustin Poirier. The Louisiana native being a former UFC rival of Nurmagomedov, there's history between the two camps and a lot of mutual respect.
'The Eagle' hailed Poirier as a "warrior" but added that he hopes Makhachev finishes him in the second or third round. In a video uploaded on his YouTube channel, Nurmagomedov said:
"We have great respect for Dustin, but on June 1, he is our opponent. We have a clearly developed plan for the fight, and I believe Islam will follow it. I really hope that Islam will finish him off in the second or third round."
Coach Magomedgadzhi Bagandov said in the same video that unless Makhachev attempts to "engage recklessly", he will not only hold his own against Poirier but surpass him.
Jon Jones gives an update on "depressing" injury
A pec injury derailed Jon Jones' plans for title defense against Stipe Miocic last year, but he has since recovered and hinted at a UFC return in November.
In a recent Q&A session with fans on X, 'Bones' gave an update on the matter, which he labels "one of the most depressing injuries" he has ever had.
The UFC heavyweight champion said that he has now 'completely healed' and is focused on rebuilding strength.
He also apologized to fans for the injury and the delay it caused to his comeback.
Paige VanZant eyes rematch after split draw against Elle Brooke
Paige VanZant's professional boxing debut did not go in her favor.
Going up against social media influencer and OnlyF*ns star Elle Brooke, who had a 4-1 record before Saturday's fight, VanZant failed to secure victory and win the Misfits Boxing middleweight title. Given her professional MMA background and UFC resume, many had assumed that she would cruise to a victory against Brooke, but that was not the case.
The 26-year-old Brit held her own against VanZant and even dropped her in the first round.
'12 Gauge' recovered well, drawing from her experience and increasing the volume and power of striking but it fell short in the end. The fight was announced a split draw, and Brooke retained her belt against the biggest opponent of her career.
Both fighters called for a rematch immediately after the fight.