Cageside with John Morgan

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look ahead at what the UFC’s scheduled in 2026 might look like. What should the UFC do with the heavyweight division, and would it be crazy to add an interim tag to the Derrick Lewis vs. Waldo Cortes-Acosta fight at UFC 324?

All this and more ...

0:00 – Paramount’s immediate impact on the UFC
6:23 – Tom Aspinall and the UFC’s current heavyweight disaster
18:14 – Is the runway now clear for Jon Jones vs. Alex Pereira?
23:00 – Final predictions: Who’s fighting for the heavyweight title?
28:14 – Looking ahead to the two title figh...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap UFC on ESPN 73, where Manel Kape may have very well earned himself a title shot with a first-round finish of Brandon Royval.

Additionally, the two react to Ilia Topuria’s strongly worded statement, where he revealed he’s battling attempts at extortion.

Plus, a preview of Saturday’s CFFC 149 event, as well as some discussion on the PFL’s potential future on ESPN.

All this and more ...

0:00 – The end of the ESPN era, Eric’s near miss, and Manel Kape’s emphatic win
7:05 – Ke...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a spectacular card from start to finish at UFC 323, where Petr Yan captured the title vs. Merab Dvalishvili. Joshua Van wins via unfortunate injury to Alexandre Pantoja.  What’s next for both new champions, and what is next in the new Paramount era of the UFC? All this and more ...0:00 – Eric McMahon’s guidance proved true, even if his prediction did not

4:15 – Petr Yan was absolutely dominant over Merab Dvalishvili
17:38 – Will Umar Nurmagomedov get the next shot at Yan?
24:56 – Did Donald Trump really say nine title fights...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview UFC 323, where Merab Dvalishvili defends his title vs. Petr Yan, and Alexandre Pantoja defends against the upstart Joshua Van. Looking forward to the new Paramount+ deal and the blockbuster card that Dana White announced. Tom Aspinall puts out a medical statement – but was it really necessary? All this and more ...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC Fight Night from Qatar, where Arman Tsarukyan and Ian Machado Garry both made claims of why they each should be next in line for a title in their respective divisions. Also, what are the guys thankful for in the past year of working in MMA? All this and more ...

0:00 – Statements made at the top of UFC Qatar1:54 – Ian Machado Garry is undeniable
6:47 – Belal Muhammad kept it close, despite 30-27 scores
11:13 – Does Garry get the next crack at Islam Makhachev?
16:53 – What the heck happened with Garry...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 322 from Madison Square Garden, where Islam Makhachev dominates Jack Della Maddalena to claim the welterweight championship. What’s next for the new champ, and how much does the upcoming fight between Belal Muhammad and Ian Machado Garry play into his plans? What’s next for Valentina Shevchenko, and could a future date with Kayla Harrison be on the horizon? All this and more ...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview the massive UFC 322 card at Madison Square Garden, where Jack Della Maddalena defends his welterweight title against lightweight champion Islam Makhachev. Will the added weight hurt or help Makhachev, and where could this fight be won or lost?  What are some potential “Fight of the Night” bouts on this card, and what is the Underground Main Event? All this and more ...

0:00 – Was the Gabriel Bonfim vs. Randy Brown stoppage handled correctly?
4:20 – Understanding the challenges officials face
8:21 – Breaking down Jack Della Maddalena vs. Islam Makhachev
17:16 – The influence of Khabib Nur...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan unpack everything that unfolded at UFC Fight Night 263, where Steve Garcia shined, but the big story centered around Waldo Cortes-Acosta and Ante Delija. Eric had a front row seat for it all and details the process. The guys also look ahead two weeks to a massive UFC 322 lineup at Madison Square Garden. All that, and more ...

0:00 – Steve Garcia absolute dominates David Onama
5:03 – Outlining a bizarre sequence of events with Cortes-Acosta vs. Delija
7:45 – Mark Smith, Herb Dean got it right – here’s why
15:31 – John McCarthy’y checklist looms large again Duration: 00:43:32

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap a disappointing finish to UFC 321. What to do now about the UFC heavyweight division, and when can a Tom Aspinall vs. Ciryl Gane rematch get booked? Jon Jones and Alex Pereira agree to fight at the White House via a back-and-forth on X. Will the UFC agree? All this and more ...

0:00 – Jon Jones is the big winner after UFC 321
5:25 – Did Tom Aspinall simply quit after being poked in the eye?
12:40 – The UFC’s heavyweight division is not in a good place
20:23 – Are new gloves the answer to the eye...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC Vancouver, where Brendan Allen left Reinier de Ridder on the stool heading into round 5. What is next for both men? Referee Dan Miragliotta in a little bit of controversy, but how should it all really have played out? UFC 321 is this weekend. Can Ciryl Gane take Tom Aspinall into the later rounds? All this and more ...

0:00 – Did Dan Miragliotta screw up in Kyle Nelson vs. Matt Frevola?
10:25 – How should Mike Malott vs. Kevin Holland have been handled?
26:04 – Brendan Allen is exactly who we thought he was...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down everything that happened at UFC 320 and what it means moving forward. Will Alex Pereira fight Jon Jones at the White House? Will Jiri Prochazka and Carlos Ulberg meet for a vacant light heavyweight title. Plus, who else shined bright at T-Mobile Arena. Meanwhile, Eric might need to relocate to Las Vegas – Power Slap last week, Dana White’s Contender Series this week!! All this and more ...

0:00 – Eric believes Power Slap may be the greatest spectator sport around
9:49 – Alex Pereira absolutely dominates at UFC 320
20:50 – Will “Poatan” face Jon Jones next...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan dive into the upcoming UFC 320 card. What is the path to victory for former UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira? Can he control the center of the cage in the rematch, or will Magomed Ankaleav prove once again why he is the king of the 205-pound division. Merab Dvalishvili vs. Cory Sandhagen and Jiri Prochazka vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. preview. All this and more ...

0:00 – CFFC 146 recap
5:53 – Carlos Ulberg earned a title shot at UFC Perth
14:21 – Was the right call made in Neil Magny vs. Jake Matthews?
20:39 – A quick ca...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back on the past two weeks with Noche UFC and UFC Paris.  Diego Lopes delivers a “Knockout of the Year” candidate in a barnburner of a fight. Where does Jean Silva go from here, and did the “L” really hurt him? The Fighting Nerds go 0-3 in the past two weeks. Do some minor changes need to be made in training? Plus, John was on hand for Terence Crawford’s massive win over Canelo Alvarez at Allegiant Stadium. All this and more ...

0:00 – An emotional week off
1:55 – Boxing debuts at Allegiant St...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan are joined by a special guest Dustin “Five” Starr, owner of Memphis Wrestling, to give a little more insight as to how an incident like what unfolded with Raja Jackson could even happen. Will Jackson face criminal charges, and what was the level of the wrestling promotion where this took place?  In addition, the guys look back at UFC Shanghai. All this and more. 

0:00 – Raja Jackson makes national news in an awful way
4:54 – Dustin “Five” Starr breaks down the Jackson incident from all angles
16:10 – Will Knokx Pro Wrestling be found liable...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 319, where Khamzat Chimaev dominated Dricus Du Plessis over five rounds to become the new middleweight champion of the world. Who is next for the new champ – and why? All this and more ...

0:00 – What to make of Khamzat Chimaev’s dominant win over Dricus Du Plessis
9:00 – Du Plessis was beaten in the basics
15:41 – Eric makes the case for a rematch
25:21 – Making the case for Reinier de Ridder, Anthony Hernandez, Nassourdine Imavov, Caio Borralho – and Bo Nickal?!?
34:27 – Michael “Venom” Page delivers yet again
36:21 – Booking Chimaev’s firs...

On this episode, recorded just before the news of the UFC’s massive new TV deal was announced, Eric McMahon and John Morgan can’t hold back their excitement in anticipation of UFC 319.

Will Khamzat Chimaev be able to get the takedown early or prove he has the cardio to go all five rounds? Or will Dricus Du Plessis be able to sprawl and brawl his way to a defense of his world title? All this and more. 

0:00 – Just how good is Anthony Hernandez?
7:45 – Breaking down the Herb Dean point deduction some may have missed
10:3...

Eric McMahon and John Morgan return to look back at Dustins Poirier’s retirement fight at UFC 318. What could the future look like for Max Holloway at 155 pounds, and is Poirier a UFC Hall of Famer? Looking ahead to UFC 319, and can  Dricus Du Plessis prove the oddmakers wrong and successfully defend his title vs Khamzat Chimaev? All this and more. 

0:00 – WWE did CM Punk dirty
4:29 – “WWE: Unreal” on Netflix and lessons from professional wrestling
12:13 – Looking back at Dustin Poirier’s retirement fight
18:05 – Does Max Holloway deserve a title shot next?
21:40 – Does Dustin Poirier belong in the UFC Ha...

Marcus Buchecha is widely considered to be one of the greatest Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioners of all time, claiming an incredible 13 IBJJF black belt world titles, along with a pair of ADCC World Championships. On Saturday, July 26, Buchecha makes his UFC debut, facing ranked heavyweight Martin Buday in Abi Dhabi.

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC on ESPN 70. Was it a bad decision in the Gabriel Bonfim vs. Stephen Thompson co-main event? Derrick Lewis wows the Nashville crowd both with his fight and post-fight antics. Looking ahead to UFC 318 – where do the strengths and weaknesses lie for both men in this highly intriguing retirement fight for Dustin Poirier? All this and more...

0:00 – Eric recounts his UFC Nashville experience
6:12 – First assignment: Valter Walker with the nasty submission
8:21 – Did the judges get it right with Gabriel Bonfim vs. Stephen Thompson?
13:25 – Derrick Lewis, bon...

Louisiana’s own Brendan Allen is excited for the chance to compete at UFC 318, which takes place Saturday, July 19 at Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, but he’s not giving local legend Dustin Poirier too much love ahead of his retirement fight in the night’s main event – at least not while “The Diamond” is in the same gym as Allen’s opponent, Marvin Vettori.

Allen discusses the honor of competing in Louisiana, the importance of a victory, a longstanding beef with Vettori, a move to Chicago to train with Belal Muhammad and Valle Flow Striking, and much more whil...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a wild and crazy International Fight Week, headlined by UFC 317. Eric convinces John to adjust his pound-for-pound rankings, where Ilia Topuria reigns supreme. Will a UFC happen at the White House next year? If it does come to fruition, who is big enough to headline that card? Looking ahead to all the amazing UFC cards in the next two months, and Sean Strickland goes full Sean Strickland. All this and more. 

0:00 – Epic International Fight Week ends in frustrating fashion – but it was worth it
2:12 – Eric’s experienc...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan dive deep into UFC 317, where Ilia Topuria takes on Charles Oliveira for the vacant UFC lightweight championship. Will Topuria’s power carry over to lightweight, and can he compete with Oliveira on the ground? Jon Jones retires from MMA, ending any chance with a showdown with Tom Aspinall – at least for now. How much did his new legal troubles impact his decision? All this and more. 

0:00 – A brief look back at UFC Baku
2:10 – The odd announcement that Jon Jones has retired
8:21 – Is Jon Jones the Greatest of All-Time?
15:49...

Undefeated 2024 PFL women’s flyweight champion “Dangerous” Dakota Ditcheva has quickly become one of the most recognizable faces of the promotion and appears on a path to superstardom. After a brief hiatus, the 26-year-old finisher is set to return to action on Saturday, July 19, where she will take on Sumiko Inaba at the organization’s historic PFL Africa 1 event, which streams live in the United States on the PFL app from Cape Town, South Africa.

Ahead of that matchup, Dakota spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.

0:00 – Reliving an incredible 2024 title run
1:52 – “Bro, we’ve actually done i...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC on ESPN 69 from Atlanta, where Kamaru Usman showed the world he is still at the top of the welterweight division. What are some potential upcoming fights for the former champion?  Wild scene in the Paul Craig vs. Rodolfo Bellato fight. Real or Fake? Was the No Contest the right call? Eric’s experience in the PFL – and did he mess up? All this and more ...

0:00 – Kamaru Usman delivers a vintage performance
8:58 – Gauging Joaquin Buckley’s future
13:39 – Was Rodolfo Bellator faking his injuries?
21:19 – Should Paul Craig have...

New UFC women’s bantamweight champion Kayla Harrison has always wanted a chance to challenger herself against the consensus GOAT – and former teammate – Amanda Nunes. Now that the fight is a reality, Harrison tells Grind City Media’s John Morgan that she’s not just looking to elevate her own status with a win, but to raise the respect level of the women’s game as a whole.

0:00 – ‘It definitely feels like I’m dreaming’
3:02 – ‘Am I am who I say I am?’
6:10 – ‘There’s not really a relationship now’ with Amanda Nunes
10:25 – ‘I believe I’m the greatest fighter on the planet...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 316 and the dominant performances from Merab Dvalishvili and Kayla Harrison. Is there anyone that can stop “The Machine”? Harrison makes quick work of Juliana Peña and has a mega-fight with Amanda Nunes looming in the distance. How many more times can Harrison make the weight cut? Looking forward to Kamaru Usman vs. Joaquin Buckley – what Usman will we see, and is the big betting line for Buckley fair? All this and more. 

0:00 – Introduction
1:22 – Merab Dvalishvili dominated, but Sean O’Malley still looked good
5:42 – Breaking down “T...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview UFC 316, where Merab Dvalishvilli defends his title against “The Suga Show,” Sean O’Malley. Will the wholesale life changes for O’Malley pay dividends in this rematch or will Dvalishvilli’s relentless approach once again be too much? Julianna Peña defends her crown against the highly favored Kayla Harrison. How does this fight play out if Peña survives the first couple of rounds? Also, hear Eric’s wild story from the regional scene this past weekend, and get a quick preview of CFFC 143. All this and more.

0:00 – Introduction Duration: 01:07:03

UFC flyweight contender Manel Kape spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan and said he could have chosen to sit on the sidelines and wait for a title shot but instead elected to compete against Brandon Royval at UFC 317 on June 28 in Las Vegas as part of International Fight Week.

Kape explains why his belief in his skills led him to take the fight rather that sit back and wait for the winner.

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Moragn react to a dominant Michael Morales over Gilbert Burns at UFC Fight Night 256. Additionally, which side are you taking in the ongoing Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria chatter? Previewing an incredible weekend in Atlantic City with FURY Professional Grappling 13 and CFFC 142. All this and more. 

0:00 – Michael Morales is the real deal
7:24 – Welterweight division now looking awfully stacked, so what’s next?
14:22 – Why the UFC Apex is here to stay
27:08 – Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria are still talking - will they fight?
32:44 – Do we need to see Sean Strickla...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 315, where Jack Della Maddalena battered and bruised Belal Muhammad. Was something off with Muhammad, or is “JDM” simply that good? Valentina Shevchenko beats the odds and defends her title in impressive fashion.  Who’s next for Shevchenko – and can anyone deny Natalia Silva? Jose Aldo calls it a career after a very hard-fought loss to Aiemann Zahabi. All this and more.

Breakout PFL star Paul Hughes has a monumental opportunity in front of him, headlining 2025 PFL Europe 1 in his hometown of Belfast against a dangerous opponent in Bruno Miranda. While Hughes isn’t looking past Miranda, he is considering what a big win should bring, and he believes the only answer is a rematch with reigning Bellator lightweight world champion Usman Nurmagomedov. Ahead of PFL Europe 1, Hughes previewed the matchup and discussed his future plans while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC Des Moines, where Cory Sandhagen destroyed Deiveson Figueiredo’s knee. Did Sandhagen send a big enough message to put him back in the title picture? Bo Nickal suffers his first professional loss – where does he need to improve to be a contender at 185 pounds? Looking ahead and previewing Saturday’s UFC 315. All this and more. 

0:00 – Was Bo Nickal exposed at UFC Des Moines?
10:09 – How much did Reinier de Ridder’s size and strenght factor into the result?
16:14 – What is Nickal’s path forward?
24:15 – Cory Sandhagen abso...

Manchester Top Team’s Sammy-Jo Luxton outlines a physically and mentally demanding year ahead of her PFL debut while talking to Grind City Media’ John Morgan. The 26-year-old English prospect will make her long-awaited debut for the promotion at PFL Europe 1 on Saturday, May 10, where she takes on Scotland’s Gemma Auld at the  SSE Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

0:00 – Outlining a year of loss and a life-threatening illness
4:00 – Making the decision to fight again, and enjoying the support of the PFL
6:18 – Previewing the matchup with Gemma Auld: “I love a scrap”
8:23 – Balancing roles as an MMA prospect and...

On this episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC on ESPN 66, where Ian Machado Garry snapped the undefeated streak of the Fighting Nerds when he took out Carlos Prates. Why so much “hate” for Garry? Looking ahead to this weekend’s UFC card in Iowa and what is looked at as Bo Nickal’s toughest fight to date. Also, who gets to stay up at the top of the bantamweight division when Cory Sandhagen takes on Deiveson Figueiredo. All this and more. 

0:00 – Why is Ian Machado Garry continuing to fly under the radar?
8:22 – Did Carlos Prates...

UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad previewed his upcoming UFC 315 headliner with Jack Della Maddalena while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan. UFC 315 takes place Saturday, May 10, and streams live on ESPN+ pay-per-view from the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.

UFC welterweight contender Gilbert Burns spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan and discussed his upcoming main event with Michael Morales at the UFC Apex, the frustration of his current run and how he plans to get back to winning ways, taking inspiration from Dominick Reyes, and much more.

0:00 – Accepting a main event change – and the multiple changes before it
3:06 – More rounds, more money, less taxes all added up to a good decision
5:13 – Breaking down Michael Morales
7:08 – Looking back on a difficult stretch
11:51 – Taking mental inspiration from Dominick Reyes
14:12 – Becoming a dad again!
15:4...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a fun night of fights at UFC 314, where Alexander Volkanovski regained his world title in a fun fight with Diego Lopes. Where do both fighters go from here? Paddy Pimblett silences all critics with a dominant performance over Michael Chandler. Top-5 opponent next for Pimblett; does Chandler have anything left in the tank? All this and more. 

0:00 – UFC 314 an absolute success – even if Miami could stand to show up a little earlier!
2:32 – Alexander Volkanovski delivers – but was it a blowout?
11:41 – Did Diego Lopes drop the ball?
...

No. 11-ranked UFC featherweight contender Giga Chikadze spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan ahead of Saturday’s massive UFC 314 event, where the organization’s 145-pound title will be on the line.

Chikadze broke down the big featherweight fights on the card, while also looking ahead to his own matchup with David Onama at UFC Kansas City on April 26.

0:00 – Healing up in Hollywood?
2:59 – Outlining challenges against Arnold Allen
5:14 – Spoiling the hometown love for David Onama
7:56 – Breaking down Alexander Volkanovski vs. Diego Lopes
9:28 – Welcoming in Patricio “Pitbull” Freire and Aaron Pico
13:00 – Should Ilia Topuria be...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview an intriguing UFC 314 lineup that is absolutely filled with interesting matchups. Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes compete for the vacant featherweight title. Michael Chandler and Paddy Pimblett meet in a five-round matchup. Bryce Mitchell vs. Jean Silva in an emotion-filled contest, Yair Rodriguez welcomes Bellator great Patricio “Pitbull” Freire, and more.

0:00 – CFFC General Manager John Morgan talks fight week excitement
3:08 – Laying out the intrigue in the UFC 314 lineup
7:21 – Alexander Volkanovski must be at full strength to beat Diego Lopes
15:52 – Diego Lopes needs to sprint out of the gates Duration: 01:04:21

The legendary “Triple C,” Henry Cejudo, spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan to recaps an incredible 2025 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships experience, including a moment for the ages with Wyatt Hendrickson scoring a massive upset over Gable Steveson.

Cejudo, himself an Olympic wrestling gold medalist, also discusses the future of the sport and potential for growth, including a call for the UFC to bring wrestling to the Apex in Las Vegas. He also provides an update on his eye, which is still healing following a fight-ending eye poke from Song Yadong one month ago, and discusses the po...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan relive the thrilling victory for Wyatt Hendrickson as he took down Gable Steveson in the heavyweight finals at the NCAA Wrestling Championships. Sean Brady takes a giant leap forward towards a title shot with a fourth-round submission over former champ Leon Edwards. Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall is done but not done. All this and more. 

0:00 – John Morgan is now CFFC General Manager
4:08 – Wyatt Hendrickson defeats Gable Steveson in one of the most dramatic moments in NCAA wrestling history
10:23 – Daniel Cormier is better at wrestling commentary than he is UFC<...

GLORY Kickboxing CEO Marshall Zelaznik, a longtime UFC exec who was instrumental in the launch of UFC FIGHT PASS, spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan about the latest news involving the surging international promotion.

In addition to the stacked “Last Heavyweight Standing” tournament, the organization has signed a broadcast deal with DAZN, is launching GLORY Underground in association with Jake Paul’s Betr, will return to the United States with a May 1 event in Miami, has started to leak details of GLORY 100 – and that doesn’t even cover it all. Check out Zelaznik outlining the plans for the grow...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at some odd occurrences ahead of Marvin Vettori’s main event with Roman Dolidze before turning to the business of MMA and looking at the future of pay-per-view in the sport, and discussing where the UFC might end up when the promotion’s latest broadcast deal is announced.

0:00 – Conor McGregor speaking at the White House
5:33 – Yaroslav Amosov victorious at CFFC 140
8:00 – How did Marvin Vettori walk to the cage without his cup?
18:19 – UFC Fight Night 254's standout performances
24:23 – How are pay-per-view buys affecting the UFC and ESPN? Duration: 00:54:49

Serbian heavyweight striker Rade Opacic recently departed ONE Championship in favor of GLORY Kickboxing, and he’s arrived just in time for the promotion’s “Last Heavyweight Standing,” a yearlong tournament that kicks off on April 5 at Rotterdam Ahoy in the Netherlands. The field starts with 32 of the world’s best heavyweight strikers and will crown a winner at the end of this year.

Ahead of the tournament launch, Opacic spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his decision to join GLORY, his first-round matchup with Nico Horta, the idea of facing names like Rico Verhoeven or Antonio P...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan both discuss the events that unfolded on Saturday night at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. The two watched UFC 313 from opposite sides of the cage and break down how Magomed Ankalaev was able to claim the UFC light heavyweight title from Alex Pereira. What comes next – and why is it very clearly a rematch? Justin Gaethje did Justin Gaethje things, and it’s time to go ahead and strap a rocket to Mauricio Ruffy and watch him rise. All this and more. 

0:00 – Power Slap “the single greatest spectator sport I have ever...

With 12 years in the UFC, King Green has seen it all in the octagon, and yet he continues to perform in a way that is 100 percent his own. Ahead of this Saturday’s UFC 313 at T-Mobile Arena, Green spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his journey so far, and what still drives him more than 50 fights into his professional MMA career.

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look ahead to the upcoming UFC 313 pay-per-view and the main event of Alex Pereira vs. Magomed Ankalaev. Where do the advantages lie for each fighter, and what should you look out for early in the fight? There’s a co-main event switch up, with Dan Hooker out and Rafael Fiziev stepping in on short notice to take on Justin Gaethje in a rematch.

Are the oddsmakers right in having Justin Gaethje as the underdog? Why you should also tune in to this card with exciting fights all over. All this an...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at a wild main event from UFC Seattle. Song Yadong takes a technical decision victory over “Triple C,” Henry Cejudo, in what many are calling a controversial ending to the fight. Was referee Jason Herzog correct in his handling of the situation? Ilia Topuria vacates his title and moves up to lightweight. Will he have to win a fight before challenging Islam Makhachev for the title? All this and more. 

0:00 – Introduction
1:50 – Is Song Yadong getting better, or is Henry Cejudo starting to slip?
7:05 – Henry Cejudo did not quit Duration: 01:01:16

Longtime Bellator standout Aaron Pico has no desire to compete for PFL, and with his contract complete, he’s calling on PFL founder Donn Davis to grant him his outright release.

Speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan, Pico says his lone interest right now is competing in the UFC, and he’d actually like to debut against No. 13-ranked featherweight Bryce Mitchell – though he’d be more than willing to face champion Ilia Topuria if that’s what the Dana White prefers.

Before he can entertain those offers, Pico said he needs his matching clause waive...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan preview the headliner of UFC Seattle this weekend between Henry Cejudo and Song Yadong. Sean Strickland and Xtreme Couture MMA Coach Eric Nicksick make headlines after comments made by Nicksick on a podcast. Fair or foul? Conor McGregor guarantees he will fight in BKFC and even throws out some names. Is there any chance this will happen? All this and more.

0:00 – Fighters to watch at Attitude MMA, Tuff-N-Uff
8:44 – Insights and observations from Henry Cejudo interview
17:40 – Breaking down Cejudo vs. Song Yadong
32:45 – What to make of Eric Nicksick’s comments...

Former two-division UFC champion and Olympic gold medalist Henry Cejudo previewed his upcoming UFC Fight Night headliner with Song Yadong while speaking to Grind City Media’s John Morgan.

Cejudo discusses the reason he simply couldn’t retire following a 2024 loss to Merab Dvalishvili, how ended paired with an opponent more than a decade younger, what’s fueling him in his final title run, and much more.

Cejudo and Yadong serve as the main event of UFC Fight Night 252, which streams live on ESPN+ on Saturday, February 22, from Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle, Washington.

Timeco...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at UFC 312, where Dricus Du Plessis defended his middleweight title in convincing fashion over the outspoken Sean Strickland. Who is next for Du Plessis, and why is it Khamzat Chimaev? Zhang Weili looks like an unstoppable force in the women’s straweight division as she batters Tatiana Suarez over five rounds. All this and more. 


0:00 – Introduction, WWE Smackdown, and more
5:01 – Eric was all wrong about Dricus Du Plessis
14:23 – What makes “DDP” so effective?
18:25 – Is there anything else that makes sense outside Khamzat Chimaev?
25:54 – Zhang Weili domin...

Reigning Bellator bantamweight champion Patchy Mix is in Australia for UFC 312, where his fiancée Tatiana Suarez is challenging Zhang Weili for the strawweight title. Mix discusses her preparation and offers his thoughts on the fight while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.

Mix also explains his reasons for wanting a release from the Professional Fighters League, which acquired Bellator MMA but has not yet been able to schedule the promotion’s athletes for fights.

0:00 - Introduction
0:55 – Fight week approach to competing in Australia
2:02 - Breaking down the matchup with Zhang Weili
5...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at this past weekend as Israel Adesanya went down in defeat to Nassourdine Imavov. Where does “Izzy” go from here, and did Imavov set himself up for a title shot? Looking ahead to UFC 312 and Dricus Du Plessis vs. Sean Strickland 2. Who has the edge in the rematch, and what are the best paths for victories for each fighters?  All this and more ...

Timecodes
0:00 - Introduction
1:44 – Sergei Pavlovich win leaves heavyweight an absolute mess
5:40 - Michael “Venom” Page silences the critics
9:54 – Is Nassourdine Imavov in line for a...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the “Fight of the Year” candidate of Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes at PFL Road to Dubai Champions Series. Was there any controversy in the decision? Additionally, there’s finally an opportunity to talk about the Umar Nurmagomedov vs. Merab Dvalishvilli fight at UFC 311, and the guys brought receipts! All this and more ...

Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:26 – Usman Nurmagomedov downs Paul Hughes in perhaps surprisingly competitive fight
9:13 – Was Mike Beltran’s point deduction warranted?
15:09 – Momentum swing in the championship rounds
20:30 – How perception can affect evaluation
24...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down the main and co-main at UFC 311. Islam Makhachev is coming in as a huge betting favorite over Arman Tsarukyan, and the guys discuss why they feel this fight is way more competitive.

Will this fight shake out the same way as their first meeting, or will things be different? Merab Dvalishvili looks to defend his title again Umar Nurmagomedov. Will Dvalishvili be able to weaponize his cardio and pace against Nurmagomedov like he has against all his previous opponents? All this and more.

0:00 – Will UFC 311 take pl...

Combat sports legend and Philadelphia’s own Eddie Alvarez is predicting bad things for opponent Jeremy Stephens when the two meet in the main event of BKFC Knucklemania V on Saturday, January 25 at Wells Fargo Arena in “The City of Brotherly Love” and streaming live on DAZN.

Ahead of that matchup, Alvarez joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, including the surprisingly tense buildup between the two veterans, and to discuss what the future holds for “The Underground King.”

0:00 – Thrill of fighting in Philadelphia for the first time since 2010
1:59 – Is the Wells Fargo Aren...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan start 2025 by surveying the MMA landscape and seeing what the future might hold for the unified PFL and Bellator brands, the upstart Global Fight League, and of course the industry powerhouse that is the UFC.

Usman Nurmagomedov vs. Paul Hughes looks like it might just be one of the best fights lined up for any promotion in January. Can the PFL and Bellator build momentuem from a matchup that is stirring old feelings from both Khabib Nurmagomedov and Conor McGregor?

Before that, UFC 311 features a couple of incredible...

Veteran combat sports analyst and commentator Robin Black joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to help preview the upcoming series “Dark Side of the Cage,” which premieres January 8 on VICE TV, as well to discuss the continued growth of Karate Combat, Black’s own personal media channels, and more.

Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:20 – The evolution of Karate Combat, a combat sports alternative
3:02 – The impact of “The Pit” on both striking and grappling
5:38 – Tracking down stories for “Dark Side of the Cage,” including the “definitive” Nick Diaz interview
9:32 – Balancing the “dark side” of MMA while also penning a love letter
13...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take advantage of the brief UFC off-season to discuss the matchups they’d most like to see booked in 2025.Who should Jon Jones fight next? What’s going on with middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis? Is there a spot on the UFC roster for Patricio “Pitbull” Freire? Islam Makhachev, Belal Muhammad, Kayla Harrison, Justin Gaethje – all this and more ...

Timecodes
0:00 – Zippy, the extra special elf
3:33 – The flyweight matchup that already got made: Brandon Royval vs. Manel Kape
9:46 – Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall or Alex Pereira
20:45 – Is Francis Ngannou a...

UFC flyweight contender Manel Kape spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan to recap his incredible UFC Tampa win over Bruno Silva, his thoughts on his new spot at No. 6 in the official UFC rankings update, his conversations with UFC CEO Dana White, teases what’s coming next, and more.


0:00 – Was UFC Tampa Manel Kape’s best performance ever?
1:23 – UFC, Dana White “going to give me what I want”
4:20 – Kape rules out trilogy bout with Kai Asakura
5:13 - What in the world is going on with Israel Adesanya?
7:03 – Pay no attention to the rankings – the...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap UFC on ESPN 63 from this past weekend. Joaquin Buckley looked spectacular in his main event vs. Colby Covington – but could Covington have turned it around heading into rounds 4 and 5?  What is next for both headliners? Meanwhile, the 41-year-old legend Cub Swanson does it again with a walk-off KO in the co-main event. Is this his last fight? Looking ahead to next year’s first pay-per-view with Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan and Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC 311. All this and more. 

0:00 – Introduction
2:03 – Did UFC Tampa prove there’s a...

Ahead of her UFC 312 title shot against current champion Zhang Weili, No. 1-ranked strawweight contender Tatiana Suarez joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to discuss the journey she’s faced ahead of this long-awaited title fight, preview the much-anticipated matchup, and discuss her preparation for the event, which takes place Feb. 9 at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney, Australia (and airs one day earlier in North America).

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap a fun UFC 310 pay-per-view from Las Vegas. Alexandre Pantoja remains the dominant flyweight champion after beating two-time Rizin FF champion Kai Asakura.  What is left for Pantoja at 125 pounds? Shavkat Rakhmonov was heavily tested in a high-level matchup vs. Ian Machado Garry. Even in defeat, Machado Garry should have earned everyone’s respect. Bryce Mitchell does Bryce Mitchell.

All this and more. 

0:00 – Iowa dominates at CFFC Match Day
3:41 – Alexandre Pantoja is the best flyweight in the world
6:24 - Could Demetrious Johnson be next for Pantoja?
9:5...

Longtime UFC welterweight contender Michael Chiesa admits his fighting career was likely hanging in the balance ahead of his August win over Tony Ferguson, but that’s no longer the case heading into his UFC 310 clash with Max Griffin.

Ahead of Saturday’s event at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Chiesa spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, discuss his continued passion for fighting even as his analyst career continues to thrive, break down a key welterweight matchup between Shavkat Rakhmonov and Ian Machado Garry, and more.

0:00 – Finding much-needed consistency in competit...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and and John Morgan look back at a spectacular victory for Dakota Dicheva this past weekend for PFL. What is next for this rising superstar? 

Plus, it’s UFC 310 fight week, and the guys are more excited than most about this sneaky good card. Flyweight champ Alexandre Pantoja may not be fighting a household name, but that doesn’t mean that Kai Asakura doesn’t have one-punch knockout power. Shavkat Rakhmonov is a big favorite heading into his matchup with Ian Machado Garry, but Eric and John will outline why this fight is sitting...

UFC flyweight contender “Custom Made” Cody Durden is fired up ahead of his UFC 310 clash with Joshua Van and told Grind City Media’s John Morgan to expect fireworks from start to finish.Durden and Van will collide at UFC 310, which takes place December 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Ahead of the fight, Durden recounts his incredible “Performance of the Night” win in September, what he thought of Van asking for this fight, earning his Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, training with UFC flyweight champ Alexandre Pantoja, always remembering his blue-collar roots, and much more.

0:00 – Introduction...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan reflect on an incredible Jon Jones win at UFC 309, and perhaps an unfortunate final sendoff for Stipe Miocic. What is motivating Jones now? Will it be Alex Pereira, or could a Tom Aspinall fight deliver the type of cash “Bones” wants to take the matchup?

Plus, the guys talk about the predictable matchup between Jake Paul and Mike Tyson that streamed live on Netflix and wonder why so many people had issues understanding what was going to unfold.

Additionally, Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler both delivered at UFC 309, whil...

Mississippi’s Brandon Davis earned his way into the UFC on the first season of Dana White’s Contender Series and went on to fight nine times in the promotion’s famed octagon. Now, he’s headlining Jorge Masvidal’s Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 9, which takes place Friday, November 15, from Biloxi’s Mississippi Coast Coliseum and streams live on the Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA YouTube channel.

“Killer B” joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup with Randy Costa, a rematch from the UFC which sees the winner taking home the promotion’s inaugural bantamweight title, as well as to discuss h...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan take an intense look at UFC 309's headliner, where reigning heavyweight champion Jon Jones faces the man with the record for most UFC heavyweight title defenses, Stipe Miocic, including why previews of this matchup have been unfairly dismissive.

What comes next if Jones wins? Should it be Tom Aspinall or Alex Pereira? What kind of chaos would ensue of Miocic can pull off the upset? Plus, there are some other intriguing fights, as well, and Eric and John outline their busy weekends, including appearances at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA and CFFC...

Nine-time UFC veteran has long been known as one of the most exciting athletes in combat sport, and he returns to action next at Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA 9, which takes place Friday, November 15, from Biloxi’s Mississippi Coast Coliseum and streams live on the Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA YouTube channel.

“The Kid” joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, discuss a challenging road in his post-UFC career, explain why he continues to fight despite working full-time, as well, and much more.

0:00 – “The Kid” not going anywhere, but “Mississippi Mean” works, too 0:38 – UFC regrets, and lessons learned the...

The UFC’s original “BMF” titleholder, Jorge Masvidal, joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan to help preview the next edition of Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA, which takes place on Friday, November 15, from Biloxi’s Mississippi Coast Coliseum and streams live on the Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA YouTube channel.

Additionally, “Gamebred” talks election results, the UFC returning to Miami in 2025, a long-discussed end to the rivalry with Leon Edwards, his share of income from the UFC’s antitrust settlement, and much more.

0:00 – Getting Gamebred Bareknuckle MMA back from hiatus
1:19 – Bareknuckle MMA’s big differentiator: Speed
3:21 – Breaking down a stacked lineup on...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and Jon Jones look back at UFC Fight Night 246 and Brandon Moreno’s spectacular performance. Is a title shot next, or perhaps a No. 1 contender title eliminator fight?

Erin Blanchfield gets the biggest win of her career, taking out former champ “Thug” Rose Namajunas. It’s only two weeks until UFC 309 at Madison Square Garden, and what could really be on the line in the main event? All this and more.

0:00 – From CFFC Match Day to FURY Professional Grappling
2:30 – Measuring the impact of changes to the Unified Rules of MMA
6:55 –...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the undisputed, undefeated Ilia Topuria and his spectacular knockout of Max Holloway. How high is the ceiling for Topuria, and is Holloway’s next move back to 155 pounds?

Khamzat Chimaev dispatches of Robert Whittaker in round 1 of their co-main event scrap. Will Chimaev get the next crack at the UFC middleweight title, and does Dricus Du Plessis have the secret sauce to take Chimaev’s “0” away? All this and more.

0:00 – UFC 308 delivered on those “holy sh-t” moments
2:47 – Ilia Topuria is an absolute cheat code
10:13 – “El...

UFC Hall of Famer Frankie Edgar joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to discuss life as a UFC Hall of Famer, his growing gym at Iron Army Academy and a weekend celebration, preview this weekend’s UFC 308 headliner, look ahead to Division I college wrestling visiting New Jersey on November 17, and more.


0:00 – Joining the UFC Hall of Fame
1:58 – Champ and the Tramp Podcast
3:51 – Growing the Iron Army Academy and the value of martial arts
6:04 – Previewing the opening celebration on Saturday, October 26
7:09 – Looking at Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway at UFC 308
8:53 – CFFC Match Day visits...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the incredible scenes that unfolded at “PFL: Battle of the Giants,” including a powerfully emotional win for Francis Ngannou over Renan Ferreira in Saudi Arabia. The two also discuss where Cris Cyborg stands in the all-time GOAT talk, before it’s time to begin looking forward to Saturday’s UFC 308 event in Abu Dhabi.

Can Ilia Topuria retain his featherweight title over the legendary Max Holloway? Is Robert Whittaker the man to finally derail Khamzat Chimaev? All this and more.

0:00 – Introduction
2:03 – Breaking down Francis Ngannou’s wi...

UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad is set to face undefeated Shavkat Rakhmonov at UFC 310 on December 7 at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. With that main event announced this week, Muhammad joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan to talk life since winning the belt in July, his willingness to take on an undefeated challenger, the success of Chicago’s Valle Flow Striking Academy, his plans to get on an Alex Pereira schedule of fighting, and more.

0:00 – Hanging out with Jelly Roll in Chicago
2:07 – Dealing with life as champion
3:12 – Sneaking past UFC security to take incredible 2012 picture with Dana...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap an incredible performance from Brandon Royval and discuss what it means for the UFC’s flyweight division. How far did Tatsuro Taira’s stock fall in defeat?

Additionally, the two look ahead to this weekend’s big PFL pay-per-view, where Francis Ngannou finally returns to the cage to take on Renan Ferreira. Are the betting lines for this one a little shocking?

We’re also just a little more than a week away from Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway and Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev at UFC 308 in Abu D...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down UFC 307 from Salt Lake City Utah, where Alex Pereira retained his light heavyweight title in fun  fight vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. Is “Poatan” now in the conversation for best combat sports athlete of all time? Also, who is next for Pereira? Could he challenge either Jon Jones or Tom Aspinall for the heavyweight title? Julianna Peña takes a controversial decision over Raquel Pennington, but the guys both agree it wasn’t a robbery. All this and more.

0:00 – Introduction
0:52 – Khalil Rountree Jr. delivered as expected, but with one small is...

Two-time Olympic gold medalist, two-time PFL champion, and current top-ranked UFC contender Kayla Harrison joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to recap her hard-fought win over Ketlen Vieira at UFC 307, react to Julianna Peña’s razor-thin win over Raquel Pennington to claim the UFC women’s bantamweight title, as well as Peña’s post-fight callout of Amanda Nunes, and more.

Harrison makes it clear she wants to fight for a title next, but she’s not yet convinced that champ Peña is going to be quite so willing to sign the dotted line.

0:00 – “...

Renato “Money” Moicano, the UFC’s No. 11-ranked lightweight contender, spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan ahead of his headlining bout Saturday’s UFC Paris event, which streams live on ESPN+.

Moicano previews his main event matchup with No. 12 Benoit Saint Denis – where he’ll be playing the role of villain against a French opponent – and looks to the future, as well, which he hopes included a year-end trip to Las Vegas for UFC 310.

0:00 – Launching the Paris takeover
1:35 – Breaking down Benoit Saint Denis, including his faceoff fashion
4:31 – Fight week plans in France
6:39 – “I would n...

On this episode, John Morgan takes us back to the chaos from this past weekend’s CFFC 135 main event in Tampa, Florida. The guys look ahead to the matchup between Renato Moicano and Benoit Saint Denis from Paris, France. Meanwhile, is everyone overlooking Khalil Rountree Jr. when he takes on Alex Pereira at UFC 307, or is Eric McMahon crazy for calling this a pick ’em? All this and more ...

Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
0:48 – Breaking down a chaotic ending at CFFC 135
9:22 – Giving Joey Ruquet his well-deserved moment
14:17 – Previewing Friday’s CFFC 136, where Eric and John will both be working Duration: 01:02:55

Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship Founder and President David Feldman spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan to lay out the plans for the organization’s new partnership with DAZN, preview the promotion’s upcoming blockbuster event in Spain, discuss Conor McGregor’s role in bringing an entire concert as an after-party, tease a year-end spectacular in Philadelphia, and much more.

0:00 – Taking “another step towards true mainstream-ness” with DAZN
2:58 – BKFC in an outdoor bullfighting stadium – and a concert, too!
5:14 – Breaking down the action in Marbella, Spain
8:16 – Previewing the chaos of Oscar Stephens-Willis vs. Ben “The Bane” Davis
10:24 –...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at the spectacle that was “UFC 306 at Riyadh Season Noche UFC” at Sphere Las Vegas. Merab Dvalishvili dominates “Suga” Sean O’Malley en route to a unanimous decision victory. Valentina Shevchenko leaves no doubt of who is the queen of the flyweight division. Diego Lopes gets his signature victory to date, dispatching Brian Ortega. What’s next for Lopes? All this and more.

0:00 – Introduction
1:01 – Did the UFC deliver at Sphere Las Vegas?
7:15 – Sean O’Malley flat, or simply stifled by “The Machine”?
12:18 – Merab Dvalishvili brilliant in victory
17:15 – La...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at “Bellator Champions Series: San Diego” from this past weekend and wonder where Usman Nurmagomedov would fit in amongst the best in the UFC lightweight division before recapping UFC Fight Night 242, and Sean Brady’s big win. Then, it’s UFC 306 fight week!

Can Sean O’Malley use his footwork and reach to keep “The Machine,” Merab Dvalishvili, at bay or will the pace and cardio be to much for the “Suga” show?  Is third time the charm for former champ Valentina Shevchenko, and are we shocked that “T-City” is a betting...

UFC CEO and President Dana White spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan ahead of Riyadh Season Noche UFC, formerly known as “UFC 306: O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili,” where the promotion is planning a one-of-a-kind event at the technological marvel known as Sphere Las Vegas.

White discusses the challenge of not only producing the event in the building, but also for an ESPN+ pay-per-view audience. He also discusses what it means for Canelo Alvarez to be facing Edgar Berlanga the same night in Las Vegas at the UFC’s usual home of T-Mobile Arena, addresses Oscar De La Hoya’s rec...

Combat sports legend and the UFC’s original BMF champion Jorge Masvidal spoke with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his July boxing match with Nate Diaz, his planned return to the UFC and ideas of potential matchups, some big matchup possibilities for his training partners at American Top Team, and much more.

0:00 – “I know the judges got it wrong” against Nate Diaz
2:38 – Masvidal pleads the Fifth?
3:16 – “Definitely, 100 percent back to MMA” late 2024 or early 2025
4:12 – Breaking down Belal Muhammad as a champion
5:46 – “The title run is never, never out of the question”
6:28 – Might as well go knock out M...

Two-time Olympic gold medalist and two-time PFL champion Kayla Harrison previewed her upcoming appearance at UFC 307 with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.While Harrison is scheduled to face No. 2-ranked contender Ketlen Vieira at the event – which takes place October 5 in Salt Lake City – she is willing to step in against women’s bantamweight champ Raquel Pennington or former titleholder Julianna Peña at any point on fight week, including fight night. In fact, Harrison says she’d be willing to face Pennington, Peña and Vieira all on the same night.Harrison also addresses the rising tension with former teamm...

With 10 years in the UFC, top-ranked welterweight contender Gilbert Burns knows the end of his career looms large on the horizon, but that doesn’t mean his title aspirations have lowered one bit. Ahead of his September 7 headliner with Sean Brady, “Durinho” spoke to Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, talk the UFC welterweight title picture, his time left in the sport, and more.

0:00 – Introduction
1:19 – Competing in the UFC Apex for the first time since 2021
2:30 – Big month for “Show Me The Money” podcast
3:17 – Handful of fights left, but championship goal the same
5:10 – Mov...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap an incredible performance from Caio Borralho in his convincing win over Jared Cannonier, as well as noting a few other amazing performances at UFC on ESPN 62.

Additionally, in a rare off-week for the UFC, the guys look ahead to the most anticipated matchups of the promotion’s upcoming schedule, including Sean O’Malley vs. Merab Dvalishvili at UFC 306, Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr. at UFC 307, Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway at UFC 308, and more.


0:00 – Introduction
1:15 – UFC on ESPN 62 delivered on entertainment value
9:31 – Caio Borralho e...

On this episode Eric McMahon and John Morgan take a deep dive into an amazing championship fight at UFC 305 between Dricus Du Plessis and Israel Adesanya. Does “DDP” get the credit he deserves? Does he really get as tired as he looks, and what does the future hold for both him and Adesanya? A judge is removed from his duties after a crazy 30-27 scorecard. Should more commissions hold judges accountable in real time? All this and more.

0:00 – Introduction
2:09 – Was the breakdown of Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya correct?
8:09 – Opening round proves hard to score – and the guys...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan break down one of the most anticipated grudge matches in recent memory, with the main event of this week’s UFC 305 featuring middleweight champ Dricus Du Plessis vs. former titleholder Israel Adesanya in Perth, Australia.

Additionally, the guys take a quick look at the rest of the card, including a heavyweight banger between Tai Tuivasa and Jairzinho Rozenstruik, before discussing the PFL’s massive announcement of an October 19 pay-per-view featuring Francis Ngannou vs. Renan Ferreira and Cris Cyborg vs. Larissa Pacheco.

0:00 – Introduction
1:11 – Chepe Mariscal proves star of UFC on E...

Memphis’ own Kevin Pease joins Grind City Media’s John Morgan following a victory in his Professional Fighters League debut. “Sweet Peas” earned a hard-fought decision win over Nick Meck at 2024 PFL 7 on August 2, and the four-time CFFC veteran recaps his big-show debut, overcoming adversity along the way, and what comes next for the undefeated welterweight prospect.

0:00 – Introduction
0:31 – From unrealized CFFC title shot to PFL debut
2:02 – “If I get out of this round, I’m going to f-cking get this guy”
3:31 – A razor-thin decision scored more easily in review
5:39 – Reflecting on a nerve-racking night for the family
6:32...

In his first interview since returning to the U.S. after a surprise trip to Abu Dhabi, new UFC welterweight champion Belal Muhammad discusses his UFC 304 win over Leon Edwards, his experience on UFC on ABC 7, taking the loang road to the UFC title, his pursuit of Georges St-Pierre’s longstanding records, and much more, while speaking with Grind City Media’s John Morgan.

0:00 – “I’m still Belal. You can call me that.”
0:56 – On beating Leon Edwards: “I told you so”
3:08 – A last-minute trip to Abu Dhabi, and a big win for Umar Nurmagomedov
4:52 – “Looking at how far we’ve come, t...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and JohnMorgan look back at UFC on ABC 7 from Abu Dhabi, where Umar Nurmagomedov cemented his spot as the next in line for the bantamweight title after an impressive all-around performance against Cory Sandhagen. The legend Tony Ferguson retires – or did he? Mackenzie Dern looks impressive in yet another win – is she now more than just a jiu-jitsu fighter? Looking forward to UFC 305 with Dricus Du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya. Is “DDP” just trolling Adesanya at this point?  All this and more.

0:00 – Eric makes his PFL debut, and gets scolded by “Big” John McCarthy
6...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan discuss the aftermath of UFC 304. Belal Muhammad is now UFC welterweight champion after scoring a unanimous decision over Leon Edwards, but who will he face in his first defense – and is Dana White happy to have a new titleholder?

Meanwhile, Tom Aspinall is an absolute star in the making and has a very simple request for Jon Jones. Will it be answered? All this and more...

0:00 – Introduction
1:15 – Belal Muhammad overdelivers in UFC 304 title win
5:31 – Could Leon Edwards have done more to turn tide?
9:30 – It wasn’t a barnburn...

UFC welterweight Danny “LeftHand2God” Barlow took a break from a friend’s wedding to speak with Grind City Media’s John Morgan about his UFC debut, recovering from a broken arm, returning to action at UFC on ESPN 61 on Aug. 10 in Las Vegas, Uros Medic withdrawing from the matchup, and much more – including why he’s always quick to shout out his hometown of Memphis and so proud to represent his community.

0:00 – Introduction
0:38 – UFC debut “bigger than I could ever imagine”
1:22 – On fighting with a broken arm: “The pain just wasn’t greater than the moment”
4:03 – Uros M...

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan look back at Jake Paul’s sixth-round TKO victory over Mike Perry and discuss why everyone should stop hating on “The Problem Child” and start giving him a little bit of credit. Looking forward to Saturday’s UFC 304 headliner between champion Leon Edwards and challenger Belal Muhammad. Does this fight have fireworks or dud written all over it? Can Curtis Blaydes drag Tom Aspinall into deep water? This weekend, it’s CFFC 133 for John, and “Big John McCarthy’s COMMAND training for Eric. All this and more...

0:00 – Introcduction
2:20 – Jake Paul scores a domi...

UFC middleweight Abdul Razak Alhassan nearly scored a spectacular first-round finish at UFC on ESPN 59 in Denver, but referee Dan Miragliotta ultimately declared the matchup with Cody Brundage to be a no contest after a few strikes were deemed to have landed illegally to the back of the head.Alhassan recounts the action with Grind City Media’s John Morgan, discusses his hopes for resolution and a possible rematch, reveals the source of his clear fight-week emotion that stemmed from a harrowing brush with the criminal justice system, and more.

Timecodes
0:00 – Introduction
1:13 – Brundage was “trying to get an e...

BKFC superstar and 15-time UFC veteran “Platinum” Mike Perry faces infamous YouTuber-turned-boxer Jake Paul in the main event of “Fear No Man” on Saturday, July 20, live on DAZN pay-per-view from Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. Ahead of that matchup, Perry joined Grind City Media’s John Morgan to preview the matchup, which Perry believes he will be ending in violent fashion.

0:00 – “I’m here for the violence”
1:41 – Explaining Jake Paul’s switch from Mike Tyson to Mike Perry
4:22 – Gloves or not, “My favorite thing to do is to box”
6:27 – “If you’re not taking punches, then you should shut your (expleti...