Rob Watson

MMA Sports Writer

Veteran MMA journalist and programmer with over 10 years covering UFC, striking arts, and combat sports. Tech enthusiast passionate about combining martial arts expertise with cutting-edge analysis.

139 articles published

Latest Articles by Rob Watson

Ronda Rousey Eyes Comeback: Negotiations Underway for Blockbuster Bout With Katie Taylor in 2026

Ronda Rousey may soon return to combat sports — not in the Octagon, but in the boxing ring. According to a recent report, she is in active negotiations for a high-profile boxing match against two-time undisputed champion Katie Taylor, with plans discussed for a Las Vegas showdown in 2026.

December 1, 2025 MMA

Eye Pokes Under Fire: Aspinall–Gane Controversy Reignites UFC Debate on Stricter Penalties

The fallout from Tom Aspinall’s eye-poke incident with Ciryl Gane has grown far beyond a single heavyweight fight. What began as an abrupt, frustrating no-contest has evolved into a full-scale debate about fighter safety, rule enforcement, and whether the UFC must adopt harsher penalties to prevent fouls that can end careers in seconds.

November 30, 2025 UFC

Alex Pereira Gets Defense from The MMA Guru Amid Outrage Over Gym Knockout

A recently surfaced gym clip of light-heavyweight champion Alex Pereira delivering a knockout during sparring has stirred strong reactions across the MMA community. Many fans criticized the intensity, arguing the strike was excessive for a training environment. But The MMA Guru — a popular content creator and longtime observer of the sport — isn’t having it.

November 30, 2025 UFC

Michael Chandler Returns to His Roots — Shuts Down Chad Mendes at RAF 3

Michael Chandler made a loud statement on the mats Saturday night in Chicago: even outside the cage, he still belongs among elite grapplers. At the Real American Freestyle event labeled RAF 3, Chandler out-wrestled former UFC and BKFC competitor Chad Mendes to claim a decisive 4–1 victory in front of a packed Wintrust Arena crowd.

November 30, 2025 MMA

Kron Gracie Vows to Reinvent Himself After UFC Exit: “I Won’t Pull Guard Ever Again”

Kron Gracie is entering a new chapter of his career, and this time, he says he’s abandoning the trademark tactic that once defined him. After the UFC chose not to re-sign him following his loss to Bryce Mitchell, Gracie spoke openly with MMAFighting.com about where things went wrong, what he learned, and how he plans to rebuild his future in mixed martial arts.

November 29, 2025 UFC

Illegal Soccer Kick Leaves Fighter Unconscious, Sparks Outrage and Safety Concerns at Regional MMA Event

A violent and controversial finish at a recent regional MMA event has stirred shockwaves across the fight world. In a startling turn, one fighter landed a soccer-kick on his opponent while he was grounded, rendering him unconscious and forcing an immediate stoppage.

November 29, 2025 MMA

Paddy Pimblett Lands Interim Title Shot as Topuria Steps Away: Gaethje Clash Sets Up Turbulent Lightweight Future

The UFC lightweight division has entered one of its most unpredictable stretches in years, triggered by Ilia Topuria’s decision to step away from competition until early 2026.

November 29, 2025 UFC

Chimaev Responds to Imavov: “You Have Time to Work on Your Grappling”

Khamzat Chimaev has never been one to hold his tongue, and he made that clear again after Nassourdine Imavov publicly positioned himself as the next deserving challenger for the middleweight championship. Imavov’s recent win put him back into the conversation among the division’s top names, but Chimaev’s response made it clear he isn’t handing out opportunities based on momentum alone.

November 28, 2025 UFC

Diego Lopes Fires Back at Doubters Ahead of Volkanovski Rematch

Diego Lopes isn’t wasting time addressing critics as he prepares for another shot at the UFC featherweight championship. After earning a rematch with Alexander Volkanovski following a strong rebound performance, the Brazilian contender has been met with pushback from fans and fighters questioning whether he deserved the opportunity so quickly.

November 28, 2025 MMA

Bella Mir Eyes Big MMA Future as She Prepares for Next Fight: “I’m Still Hungry”

The daughter of a UFC legend isn’t resting on her name — she’s determined to earn hers. Bella Mir, daughter of former UFC heavyweight champ Frank Mir, is quietly building momentum in her MMA career. With another fight coming up soon under her belt, she’s making clear that legacy alone won’t carry her.