The world of MMA never stops moving, and this week was no exception. There’s a lot to grasp here, from heavyweights battling over timelines to a commentator earning her stripes. However, the daily schedule of life often makes MMA fans miss all the updates. But fret not, as EssentiallySports is back with yet another edition of the MMA news round-up. So, sit back and relax as we give you some of the latest MMA news in bite-sized chunks.
For the first headliner of the day, fans have been paying close attention to Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall‘s evolving situation, eager for the long-awaited clash for heavyweight supremacy. But if it doesn’t, at least one respectable voice believes Dana White shouldn’t take the blame. Meanwhile, Belal Muhammad did not mince words while discussing Ilia Topuria‘s chances against Islam Makhachev, and let’s just say it wasn’t a great endorsement. Speaking of hard-earned respect, Laura Sanko recently achieved a big career milestone that shows both her technical ability and her deep roots in the MMA community. Hyped up enough? So, without further ado, let’s begin!
MMA pundit believes Dana White should not be blamed for the Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall delay
Despite frustration over the delay in scheduling a fight between Tom Aspinall and Jon Jones, Ariel Helwani is pushing fans to look beyond UFC CEO Dana White. According to him, the head honcho has gone above and beyond to make the fight happen. Helwani made it clear that Aspinall and the promotion are completely on board. The holdup? Jon Jones himself. Jones withdrew from the bout within days of accepting it, leaving Aspinall to meet Ciryl Gane at UFC 317. It’s an unusual change of events, especially given that the Briton has already defended his interim championship once and is preparing for a rare second defense.
LAS VEGAS, NV – March 3: Dana White at the ceremonial weigh-ins at MGM Grand Garden Arena for UFC 285 -Jones vs Gane : Ceremonial Weigh-ins on March 3, 2023 in Las Vegas, NV, United States. Photo by Louis Grasse/PxImages Louis Grasse / SPP PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxBRAxMEX Copyright: xLouisxGrassex/xSPPx SPP_156457
Typically, interim champions unify belts immediately, but this detour reveals how complex things are behind the scenes. Helwani stated on The Ariel Helwani Show, “In my opinion, if this fight doesn’t happen, it’s not because of the UFC. It’s not because of Tom Aspinall either. I think ultimately who will decide if this fight happens or not is Jon Jones.” While some have speculated about money issues or contract disputes, Helwani believes all financial terms have been favorable to both fighters. ‘Bones’ just wants a complete six-month camp, which does not line up with Tom Aspinall’s urgency.
Chael Sonnen reiterated those sentiments, confirming via a source that Jon Jones‘ demand for a lengthy prep period is non-negotiable. The UFC clearly does not want to see another Gane versus Jones rematch, especially after Jones’ spectacular performance at UFC 285. Jones vs. Aspinall would be the biggest heavyweight bout in years, and ‘Bones’ now holds the keys.
Belal Muhammad doubts Ilia Topuria’s chances against Islam Makhachev
In the lightweight division, Belal Muhammad is already referring to the Ilia Topuria-Islam Makhachev fight as a done thing. And he’s not exactly concerned. The welterweight champion and Islam Makhachev’s teammate recently spoke out about the fight, claiming that the reigning champion will easily defeat ‘La Leyenda.’ In a recent interview with Submission Radio, Muhammad predicted a second-round finish. “No, I think he’ll finish Topuria probably in the second round,” Muhammad stated confidently. “Honestly, I see Islam just dominating all these guys,” he added. ‘Remember The Name’ acknowledged Justin Gaethje’s knockout power and Arman Tsarukyan’s skill level but did not appear to believe Ilia Topuria posed a serious threat. It’s a bold statement, particularly given Makhachev’s recent performances.
reporter: ‘Do you think Ilia Topuria is the toughest challenge for Islam at LW?’
Belal: ‘NO! I think he would finish Topuria by the 2nd round’
(via @SubmissionRadio) pic.twitter.com/ax9jOVZEf0
— Dovy (@DovySimuMMA) April 24, 2025
While ‘Borz’ has continued his winning streak, his fights have not always gone smoothly. Dustin Poirier fought hard against him at UFC 302 but was ultimately defeated by a smooth D’Arce choke in the later rounds. Then there came UFC 284, where Alexander Volkanovski pushed Makhachev to his limits and may have won in the eyes of certain fans. Makhachev’s battle against Volkanovski, especially given the Australian’s short and stocky build, raised questions. His takedown entries were more readable, and Volk’s explosive hips gave him trouble. The Spanish-Georgian has some of the same physical characteristics, which could pose issues. Nonetheless, Belal Muhammad’s optimism signals that the ‘Borz’ camp isn’t worried about the bout, if it happens.
Laura Sanko earns her black belt ahead of UFC’s Kansas City return
Laura Sanko just added another great feat to her already impressive resume: achieving a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. The longtime UFC commentator and former fighter broke the news on Instagram, reminiscing on a nearly 20-year journey. She wrote a sincere tribute to everyone who supported her: “Feels amazing to join the black belt club… a 19-year journey that is just beginning.” This moment comes as the UFC returns to Kansas City, Sanko’s hometown, and a location with significant MMA heritage. Her connection to the city and its MMA culture is strong, and this accomplishment could not have come at a better time. She expressed special gratitude to her coach and friend, Paul Kolenda, showing how loyal mentorship and years of effort influenced her journey.
February 3, 2023, Las Vegas, NV, LAS VEGAS, NV, United States: LAS VEGAS, NV – February 3: Laura Sanko meets with the press to discuss her new role at the UFC at UFC Apex for UFC Fight Night – Lewis Vs Spivac on February 3, 2023 in Las Vegas, NV, United States. Las Vegas, NV United States – ZUMAp175 20230203_zsa_p175_105 Copyright: xLouisxGrassex
Sanko’s MMA career began inside the cage, where she won via submission before walking away to raise her child. Instead of fading, she carved new trails. She made history at UFC Vegas 68 as the first female color commentator in the modern era, and she later became the first woman to lead commentary on a UFC PPV at UFC 293 in Sydney. Her black belt represents everything she’s accomplished as an athlete, analyst, and icon. This week in MMA has seen everything from stalled superfights to increasing tensions and the realization of longtime goals. Whether you’re rooting for Jones vs. Aspinall, taking sides in Makhachev vs. Topuria, or celebrating Laura Sanko’s new stripes, one thing is certain: the octagon drama doesn’t stop inside the cage. Which story sparked your interest the most? Let us know in the comments.
The post MMA News Roundup- Dana White Not to Blame for Jones vs Aspinall Delay; Belal Muhammad Attacks Ilia Topuria Before UFC 315; Laura Sanko Gets Black Belt appeared first on EssentiallySports.
