MMA News Roundup: UFC fighter challenges Joe Rogan for "making fun of Flat Earthers," Dana White says Petr Yan is to Sean O'Malley what Jose Aldo was to Conor McGregor, UFC bans fighters from betting on fights
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 certain UFC featherweight threatening Joe Rogan for "making fun of Flat Earthers," Dana White comparing Petr Yan vs. Sean O'Malley to Jose Aldo vs. Conor McGregor, and more.
#3. Bryce Mitchell wants to debate Joe Rogan for "making fun of Flat Earthers"
Up-and-coming UFC featherweight Bryce Mitchell has a bone to pick with Joe Rogan.
The 28-year-old recently took to Instagram to call out Rogan for apparently "making fun of Flat Earthers" on his social media platforms. Mitchell, who identifies as a believer in the Flat Earth theory, took offense to Rogan's comments.
On top of that, Mitchell is confident he can take Rogan on in a debate about the shape of the planet. In a video he uploaded to Instagram, Mitchell said:
"I would love to debate you Joe Rogan, 'cause I'm tired of you making fun of Flat Earthers. And if you're so confident, come on and debate me buddy, 'cause I'm tired of this crap."
Watch the video below:
#2. Dana White says Petr Yan is to Sean O'Malley what Jose Aldo was to Conor McGregor
Dana White believes fighting Petr Yan offers Sean O'Malley the same opportunity Jose Aldo presented to Conor McGregor years ago.
The rising star has repeatedly mentioned how he wants to become the next McGregor. According to White, 'Sugar' is primed to take a step closer to his goals if he can overcome the massive challenge in the same way McGregor passed his test against Aldo years ago:
"There was this comparison recently where Sean O'Malley said 'I would love to be the next Conor McGregor and be a big global superstar.' Well, it's about winning key fights. He's already got that thing that people like about him, now it's about winning key fights. This fight for him is like Conor's Jose Aldo fight."
Check out Dana White's comments below:
#1. UFC releases memo banning fighters from betting on fights
UFC fighters will no longer be allowed to gamble on UFC fights, whether or not they're involved.
In a memo obtained by MMA journalist Ariel Helwani, Hunter Campbell stated that the company's athlete code of conduct will now include a prohibition on betting on fights. The company's Chief Business Officer wrote:
"In light of clear direction that we have received from regulators responsible for the regulated sports betting industry in the United States, we are compelled at this time to recognize in the UFC Athlete Conduct Policy certain restrictions relating to wagering by our athletes, members of their teams and certain others."
Check out the memo below:
UFC just issued this memo to fighters and managers regarding a change in their athlete conduct policy:
UFC fighters are now prohibited from gambling on any UFC fight, regardless of if they are involved or not. They can still be sponsored just not allowed to bet at all. https://t.co/6zhuIITxmx