It’s that time of the week again, friends. Questions have been great as of late. Thank you! As always, everything and anything goes. I’ll answer as many as possible on Wednesday’s show. Again, try to keep them short and sweet, if possible. That increases your chances of having the question answered on air.
From horrendous to tremendous! Congrats to the Parlay Boys for the mighty resurrection! Onwards & upwards from here on out! Just wanted to provide GC with some positive closure our Atlantic City meeting & mutual betting slaughter that evening. You shouted me out first on the program last Wednesday, then said we’d make it all back on UFC 300, and boy did we ever! I won back every dollar, almost to the penny, and you had quite a successful run as well! You seemingly manifested this, so I owe you a debt of gratitude once again. Long live the Parlay Boys!
Excellent work from the whole team for all the content provided throughout the entire week. As a film industry professional myself, I understand how much effort must have gone into all the prep and coordination. Thank you Ariel for everything you did to make 300 even more monumental!
Hi Ariel, Why is there no push back on Dustin getting the title fight the same way people were mad at Colby? Both got the shot coming off 1 win and are 0-2 at title fights?
Long time listener, first time commenter. I just wanted to share an interesting fact about UFC 300s main event. By defeating Jamahal Hill, Alex Pereira has become the first light heavyweight champion to successfully defend the title in 1,133 days (UFC 259: Blachowicz vs Adesanya), and the first to successfully defend against a ranked light heavyweight contender in 1,526 days (UFC 247: Jones vs Reyes). This is made even more impressive when you consider that he’s only been in the UFC for 888 days. With this in mind I pose this question to yourself, GC and Ric; is Alex Pereira the guy to bring stability to the crazy 205 title picture?
Amazing work as always, loved the shows from Vegas last week. Keep it up guys 👍
What's up fellas...Great coverage for 300. Felt like the MMA Hour team really came into their own last week!!!
I'm sure you have had this asked before but given your growing success and platform, would there ever be a circumstance where you and Dana could have a sit down interview and have an honest conversation? I know both parties would have to agree, but I feel like Dana has really leaned into doing media this past year. Call me crazy, but I feel like it would actually benefit the both of you and be great for the sport. I'm sure there's a lot of other factors that play into the situation but would be quite the scene. Maybe for UFC 500???
In this current run of the show, it feels like we keep reaching new peaks and milestones. This last week has been so much fun to watch, listen and enjoy. The show, yourself and the crew are truly operating at all timer levels.
Something I wondered.
How did presenting and interviewing on the sofa compare to the in studio, desk setup?
You're without your laptop, desk, trinkets and tchotchkes. Just yourself and the subject. Do you find this added openess and opportunity to read body language makes the interviews feel different? Do you find different reads and avenues to explore when conversating and interviewing this way?
Thanks again for the week that was, is and will be. Love to the entire crew,
Dana White announced the comeback of the biggest star in UFC history after getting passed a crumpled up piece of paper.
My question to Ariel and the boys is - "What is the best news you've ever gotten scribbled on a ripped up legal pad page?"
For me, it was when I got a note passed to me in Psychology 101 from Jane Samways that she wanted me to take her to lunch.
Alas, Jane actually didn't go out with me because she caught me doing nWo 2 Sweet signs with my mates outside the classroom and pointing my thumbs to myself like Razor Ramon in celebration.
During your interview with kayla on Monday I kept thinking to myself that the last pound is always the hardest to lose. With that in mind do you have any worries about her making championship weight when she does get her title shot since she only made 136 and looked awful on the scale? She does seem like a true professional but I wonder what difference that last pound would make.
Quick NBA question, as I'm curious about your take on Carmelo Anthony. Considering you were at Syracuse when he carried them to the '03 national title and then became an icon with the Knicks, I'd assume you'd be a big Melo fan. But I can't recall ever hearing you speak about him. Why is that?
Now that McGregor vs Chandler has finally been announced (in the most bizarre fashion) for UFC 303 on June 29, let’s do some fantasy matchmaking to fill out the main card. We know they aren’t going to add any title fights to a McGregor card, and they always want to have big names on International Fight Week, so what would each of you pick as your ideal matchup for the UFC 303 main card?
I’ll start by kicking off the main card with Corey Sandhagen vs Umar Nurmagomedov.
What about the co-main/chief support and other main card slots?
Do you feel pretty confident that they're saving Leon Edwards for the Manchester card at this point? With UFC 301, 302, and 303 set with main events, and UFC 305 taking place in Perth, it has to be him v. Belal or somebody at 304 - right?
There's not a chance that a title fight co-mains the Mcgregor v. Chandler UFC 303 card, or is there?
Cheers,
btw - your interview with Mark Coleman was incredible. The space, time, and respect you gave him to open up was beautiful to watch. What a story, what a man.
I know you're not at ESPN anymore and you're never at the fights themselves, and I also know you get a ton of shit from people - but that interview exemplified why the UFC needs you in the sport. Yes, needs you - even if you're not in the building.
A question on the potential Nunes vs Kayla matchup.
Why is Dana so positive about the idea of Nunes coming back and doesn’t seem to hold any grudge because of her retirement ? He clearly hates early retirements (GSP, Cejudo), why is he so open to the idea and does not hold any grudge towards her ?
Much love to you guys for the amazing interviews and multiple shows last week.
For Ariel, I’m wondering if you were always as articulate and inquisitive as you are now going back to when you saw that Journalism program ad at Syracuse.
How have you developed such a great style to make all your guests feel like they’re just having a chat with an old friend?
Do you have suggestions any good reads that helped you develop your skills? The old classic How to Win Friends and Influence People comes to mind.
During the lead up to the Pereira KO, as Alex told Herb to kick rocks and get out of his way, he seemed to subtly close the distance on Hill. Hill preparing for a timeout to be called, didn’t adjust to this. Now this has minimal impact on the KO and no credit should be taken away from Alex, but should there have been a more formal reset to the action once Herb has gestured for the timeout.
Hope you and the crew are well mate. These are my fights to make now that the dust has settled on a spectacular UFC 300.
Let’s do it rapid fire style with you and the lads. Simply answer Yes/No/Interesting.
Chuck v Gamrot
Justin v BSD
Arman v Islam/Dustin winner
Lopes v Evloev
Jim FKN Miller v Dariush
King Green v Paddy
Moicano v Hooker
Max v Illia
Jiri v Ankalaev
Poatan v Rountree
Nickal v Hermansen
Aljo v Ortega
Fig v Yan
Also congratulations on your new monicker ‘MYSTIC MENSCH’ after foreshadowing in your Mighty Mouse interview last week, people getting their black belts after scoring knockouts.
Thanks for everything you all do and the amazing week of content last week. Legends.
Hi Ariel, I'm sure you already about this but I googled up every media outlet that is listed on the UFC rankings panel from their website and most of them are expired websites, websites who haven't posted in years, some boxing websites, a few local news stations, and a rock radio station in San Diego. There were literally only 2-3 outlets from their rankings panel who actually cover MMA and are still active
So who is REALLY determining these rankings Ariel?? There is no way these are the actual media outlets on the UFC's rankings panel right?? Or is that just another Dana LIE so he can just deflect at the pressers saying "I don't make the rankings. YOU guys make the rankings. The media votes on the rankings". Max at 9 at LW while Justin is still at 3 makes no sense
Happy Wednesday Ariel & the crew,
From horrendous to tremendous! Congrats to the Parlay Boys for the mighty resurrection! Onwards & upwards from here on out! Just wanted to provide GC with some positive closure our Atlantic City meeting & mutual betting slaughter that evening. You shouted me out first on the program last Wednesday, then said we’d make it all back on UFC 300, and boy did we ever! I won back every dollar, almost to the penny, and you had quite a successful run as well! You seemingly manifested this, so I owe you a debt of gratitude once again. Long live the Parlay Boys!
Excellent work from the whole team for all the content provided throughout the entire week. As a film industry professional myself, I understand how much effort must have gone into all the prep and coordination. Thank you Ariel for everything you did to make 300 even more monumental!
Your friend from Queens,
Justin
Hi Ariel, Why is there no push back on Dustin getting the title fight the same way people were mad at Colby? Both got the shot coming off 1 win and are 0-2 at title fights?
Hi Ariel and crew,
Long time listener, first time commenter. I just wanted to share an interesting fact about UFC 300s main event. By defeating Jamahal Hill, Alex Pereira has become the first light heavyweight champion to successfully defend the title in 1,133 days (UFC 259: Blachowicz vs Adesanya), and the first to successfully defend against a ranked light heavyweight contender in 1,526 days (UFC 247: Jones vs Reyes). This is made even more impressive when you consider that he’s only been in the UFC for 888 days. With this in mind I pose this question to yourself, GC and Ric; is Alex Pereira the guy to bring stability to the crazy 205 title picture?
Amazing work as always, loved the shows from Vegas last week. Keep it up guys 👍
What's up fellas...Great coverage for 300. Felt like the MMA Hour team really came into their own last week!!!
I'm sure you have had this asked before but given your growing success and platform, would there ever be a circumstance where you and Dana could have a sit down interview and have an honest conversation? I know both parties would have to agree, but I feel like Dana has really leaned into doing media this past year. Call me crazy, but I feel like it would actually benefit the both of you and be great for the sport. I'm sure there's a lot of other factors that play into the situation but would be quite the scene. Maybe for UFC 500???
- Thanks for all you guys do. love from the 305
Ariel,
In this current run of the show, it feels like we keep reaching new peaks and milestones. This last week has been so much fun to watch, listen and enjoy. The show, yourself and the crew are truly operating at all timer levels.
Something I wondered.
How did presenting and interviewing on the sofa compare to the in studio, desk setup?
You're without your laptop, desk, trinkets and tchotchkes. Just yourself and the subject. Do you find this added openess and opportunity to read body language makes the interviews feel different? Do you find different reads and avenues to explore when conversating and interviewing this way?
Thanks again for the week that was, is and will be. Love to the entire crew,
Louis
Dana White announced the comeback of the biggest star in UFC history after getting passed a crumpled up piece of paper.
My question to Ariel and the boys is - "What is the best news you've ever gotten scribbled on a ripped up legal pad page?"
For me, it was when I got a note passed to me in Psychology 101 from Jane Samways that she wanted me to take her to lunch.
Alas, Jane actually didn't go out with me because she caught me doing nWo 2 Sweet signs with my mates outside the classroom and pointing my thumbs to myself like Razor Ramon in celebration.
During your interview with kayla on Monday I kept thinking to myself that the last pound is always the hardest to lose. With that in mind do you have any worries about her making championship weight when she does get her title shot since she only made 136 and looked awful on the scale? She does seem like a true professional but I wonder what difference that last pound would make.
Hi Ariel!
Quick NBA question, as I'm curious about your take on Carmelo Anthony. Considering you were at Syracuse when he carried them to the '03 national title and then became an icon with the Knicks, I'd assume you'd be a big Melo fan. But I can't recall ever hearing you speak about him. Why is that?
Hello Ariel and crew!
Now that McGregor vs Chandler has finally been announced (in the most bizarre fashion) for UFC 303 on June 29, let’s do some fantasy matchmaking to fill out the main card. We know they aren’t going to add any title fights to a McGregor card, and they always want to have big names on International Fight Week, so what would each of you pick as your ideal matchup for the UFC 303 main card?
I’ll start by kicking off the main card with Corey Sandhagen vs Umar Nurmagomedov.
What about the co-main/chief support and other main card slots?
Hi Ariel,
Do you feel pretty confident that they're saving Leon Edwards for the Manchester card at this point? With UFC 301, 302, and 303 set with main events, and UFC 305 taking place in Perth, it has to be him v. Belal or somebody at 304 - right?
There's not a chance that a title fight co-mains the Mcgregor v. Chandler UFC 303 card, or is there?
Cheers,
btw - your interview with Mark Coleman was incredible. The space, time, and respect you gave him to open up was beautiful to watch. What a story, what a man.
I know you're not at ESPN anymore and you're never at the fights themselves, and I also know you get a ton of shit from people - but that interview exemplified why the UFC needs you in the sport. Yes, needs you - even if you're not in the building.
Hallo Ariel
A question on the potential Nunes vs Kayla matchup.
Why is Dana so positive about the idea of Nunes coming back and doesn’t seem to hold any grudge because of her retirement ? He clearly hates early retirements (GSP, Cejudo), why is he so open to the idea and does not hold any grudge towards her ?
Greetings from Germany my man
Hi Ariel, GC & NY Rick,
Much love to you guys for the amazing interviews and multiple shows last week.
For Ariel, I’m wondering if you were always as articulate and inquisitive as you are now going back to when you saw that Journalism program ad at Syracuse.
How have you developed such a great style to make all your guests feel like they’re just having a chat with an old friend?
Do you have suggestions any good reads that helped you develop your skills? The old classic How to Win Friends and Influence People comes to mind.
Thank you & God Bless
A question for all of the guys. What was better ufc 300 or WrestleMania
As Salam Alaikum Ariel and team.
During the lead up to the Pereira KO, as Alex told Herb to kick rocks and get out of his way, he seemed to subtly close the distance on Hill. Hill preparing for a timeout to be called, didn’t adjust to this. Now this has minimal impact on the KO and no credit should be taken away from Alex, but should there have been a more formal reset to the action once Herb has gestured for the timeout.
G’day Ariel,
Hope you and the crew are well mate. These are my fights to make now that the dust has settled on a spectacular UFC 300.
Let’s do it rapid fire style with you and the lads. Simply answer Yes/No/Interesting.
Chuck v Gamrot
Justin v BSD
Arman v Islam/Dustin winner
Lopes v Evloev
Jim FKN Miller v Dariush
King Green v Paddy
Moicano v Hooker
Max v Illia
Jiri v Ankalaev
Poatan v Rountree
Nickal v Hermansen
Aljo v Ortega
Fig v Yan
Also congratulations on your new monicker ‘MYSTIC MENSCH’ after foreshadowing in your Mighty Mouse interview last week, people getting their black belts after scoring knockouts.
Thanks for everything you all do and the amazing week of content last week. Legends.
Jamal.
Hi Ariel, I'm sure you already about this but I googled up every media outlet that is listed on the UFC rankings panel from their website and most of them are expired websites, websites who haven't posted in years, some boxing websites, a few local news stations, and a rock radio station in San Diego. There were literally only 2-3 outlets from their rankings panel who actually cover MMA and are still active
So who is REALLY determining these rankings Ariel?? There is no way these are the actual media outlets on the UFC's rankings panel right?? Or is that just another Dana LIE so he can just deflect at the pressers saying "I don't make the rankings. YOU guys make the rankings. The media votes on the rankings". Max at 9 at LW while Justin is still at 3 makes no sense