El Tigre Colenense of Panama, World Lightweight Champion Ismael Laguna, Dies at 83 By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent Panama City, Panama (September 9th, 2026)– Former World Lightweight champion Ismael Laguna Meneses, El Tigre Colenense, has passed away in his native Panama City, Panama, at age 83. Fighting between 1960 and 1971, […]
Ryan Garcia defends his WBC welterweight title against Conor Benn Saturday in Las Vegas. Full preview with tale of the tape, film study, keys to victory, betting odds, the co-main event, and the complete fight card.
Katie Taylor closed out her legendary career with a unanimous decision win over Flora Pili at Croke Park, reclaiming the undisputed super lightweight title in front of more than 80,000 fans. Full results, her post-fight press conference, and video highlights.
Salahdine Parnasse stopped Dan Hooker in the first round of his UFC debut to headline UFC Paris. Full card results, bonuses, and video highlights from Accor Arena.
Damian Knyba dropped Andy Ruiz Jr. in the seventh round and won a lopsided unanimous decision in Newark, dealing the former champion's comeback a serious setback. Full results and video.
Analysis:This is one of the most intriguing match ups ever in the lightweight division. Ben Henderson is one of the largest men in the weight class and possesses incredible strength at 155. His vicious leg kicks and engaging tenacity forces most of his opponents backwards. Nate Diaz has some of the best boxing skills in the entire UFC. His range-establishing jabs have dismantled a cadre of high caliber fighters. On the ground, Diaz also has some incredible jujitsu skills.
Predictions: Diaz via submission 2nd round!
Alexander Gustafsson vs. Mauricio “Shogun” Rua
An intriguing match up to say the least. Gustafsson is looking to solidify his place as a contender in the light heavyweight division, as perennial contender ‘Shogun’ is trying to earn yet another title shot. On their feet, the match is pretty even on paper, however ‘Shogun’ will have a distinct advantage on the ground. Fight of the night Candidate.
Prediction: Gustafsson unanimous decision
Rory MacDonald vs. B.J. Penn
This match up is very similar to the previous. A young phenom stepping up to fight a legend. Baby James Penn has been through so many wars in the UFC it is impossible to count him out of any fight. His unique skill set makes him one of the most dynamic talents in the UFC. Rory MacDonald has been making waves in the UFC ever since he came on board. Since his only professional loss (at the hands of Carlos Condit) MacDonald began a three fight win streak over title contender Nate Diaz, Mike Pyle, and Che Mills.
Prediction: MacDonald via Unanimous Decision
Matt Brown vs. Mike Swick
Analysis: Matt Brown is currently riding a three fight win streak with a huge upset win over Stephen Thompson sandwiched between two other impressive wins. Now he is set to face one of the most well rounded fighters in the division. Mike Swick has returned to prominence after suffering from health issues that almost cut the fighters career short. After almost a three year absence, Swick returned in 2012 with a impressive hard fought knockout victory over DeMarques Johnson at UFC on Fox 4. Finally healthy and able to train full time, Swick is looking to return to the top of the division.
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