MMA News Roundup: Ex-UFC champ unsure of Jon Jones' chances vs. Francis Ngannou, Conor McGregor sued by former friend, Cain Velasquez receives approval to wrestle (Nov. 23, 2022)
Welcome to today's edition of Sportskeeda's daily MMA News Roundup, where we present the biggest UFC updates and other stories from the world of mixed martial arts.
In today's issue, we talk about a former UFC champion expressing doubt over Jon Jones' chances against Francis Ngannou, Conor McGregor getting sued by his former close friend, and more.
#3. Former UFC champ unsure whether Jon Jones can beat Francis Ngannou
Former UFC middleweight champion Michael Bisping isn't sure if Jon Jones should be favored in a fight against Francis Ngannou
Jones was reportedly penciled in to fight at UFC 285 in March 2023, according to Nolan King of MMA Junkie. It's still uncertain who 'Bones' will fight in his comeback, but it's no secret that Ngannou is the current frontrunner.
Bisping recently chimed in with his thoughts on the potential super fight during a live Q&A with fans on YouTube. According to 'The Count':
"Of course, technically, Jon is the better fighter but Francis [just needs] one touch, one glimpse of a shot. You're going to sleep. So I don't know."
Catch Michael Bisping's comments in the clip below:
#2. Cain Velasquez receives approval to participate in Lucha Libre AAA
Cain Velasquez was recently released from jail on bail after getting involved in a shootout earlier this year.
Cain Velasquez has been granted bail at $1 million pending trial.
He will have to wear GPS tracking, he must also comply with a protective order 300 yards away from the victims in the case
His release was good news for the MMA community, and recent updates will give his fans more to celebrate about.
Immediately after his release, ESPN reported that Velasquez’s legal team reached out to authorities to secure a permit for the former fighter to participate in a pro wrestling event.
Following a recent hearing, Judge Arthur Bocanegra ruled that Velasquez is permitted to fly to Tempe, Arizona., to compete in the upcoming Lucha Libre AAA event at the Mullett Arena in Arizona. During this time, the fighter's GPS tracker will reportedly be deactivated.
#1. Artem Lobov sues former friend Conor McGregor for millions over Proper 12 whisky
Remember when Conor McGregor committed a literal crime to defend Artem Lobov's honor? Well, it's safe to assume that their friendship is over.
Lobov has reportedly sued the UFC megastar, claiming to have come up with the idea for the ultra-popular Proper No. 12 Whiskey. Lobov pursued legal action on Tuesday, in which he will be demanding 5% of the profits McGregor earned from the sale of the company in 2021.
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Conor McGregor is being sued by Artem Lobov over a Euro deal for Proper 12.
Lobov alleges he “came up with the idea” & “was instrumental in developing the brand”
Lobov believes he’s entitled to “5pc of the proceeds McGregor got from the sale of the brand.” https://t.co/rfy0MTvNT0
In an interview with the Ireland-based pundit, the Irish Independent, Lobov's legal representative, Dermot McNamara, said:
"We have issued High Court proceedings on his behalf to enforce an agreement with Mr. McGregor regarding the Proper No. Twelve whiskey brand. My client was the initial creator and co-founder of the concept to launch an Irish whiskey brand associated with Mr. McGregor."
Meanwhile, McGregor's spokesperson Karen J. Kessler has refuted Lobov's claims, according to MMA journalist Chisanga Malata.