Welcome to Midnight Mania!
While capturing two title simultaneously is an incredible accomplishment and monumental task in itself, defending both straps is perhaps an even greater challenge. One is forced to always look further passed the current challenger, as there is never a truly calm path ahead so long as the double champ is responsible for defending the belts.
Amanda Nunes is almost unique in all of MMA history for undergoing this burden. Ahead of her UFC 259 Featherweight title defense opposite Meegan Anderson this weekend, “Lioness” still has to think about her Bantamweight belt and possible challengers. Speaking with MMAmania, Nunes responded to a quote from Germaine de Randamie, who said that she “exposed” the champion.
“I don’t think she exposed me,” Nunes explained. “I believe she has the best striking in the division, and I feel like I exposed her more by showing that I can handle her striking and am still able to use my wrestling and ground to neutralize her. If the UFC feels that’s next, then that is what it will be.”
Nunes has defeated “The Iron Lady” twice already. She won the first bout via TKO back in 2013, but Nunes’ 2019 victory over de Randamie was a more hard-fought decision win. Given the Dutch striker’s rebound win opposite Julianna Pena, a 2021 rematch does seem distinctly possible.
Later in the week, Nunes’ full interview with MMAmania covering motherhood, the pressures of being double champ, and much more will be released — keep an eye out!
Insomnia
Kamaru Usman has jokes!
Belal Muhammad has come a long way!
The calf kick sensation began way before Dustin Poirier — I’d argue 2020 in general was when the strike took over. I still love the meme though …
This is a cool accomplishment for Paul Daley! Though he’s never been particularly known for his grappling, the English fighter has been fighting pro since 2003 and has only been submitted once in the last 10 years.
This is a really cool promo, and there’s a lot to be excited for this weekend!
UFC Vegas 20’s main event was strangely familiar.
Slips, rips, and KO clips
A slick highlight of Team Alpha Male’s Slava Borshchev, who I believe fights again for LFA later this month!
Counter right hand straight down the pipe!
It’s always dope when Southpaws make good use of the lead hand uppercut.
Random Land
A neat carnivorous plant!
Midnight Music: I checked out Westside Gunn’s — founding member of that Griselda rap label whose music I tend to really dig — 2020 album Pray For Paris. It’s got a grimy, ‘90s rap feel to it, and all the verses are solid, from Gunn to his many quality guests.
Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.