Welcome to Midnight Mania!
Let’s start the night off by taking a look back over the three biggest stories of Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2025.
- ‘Future’ prediction: ‘Mentally weak’ Leon Edwards ‘gonna get knocked out’ by Carlos Prates, retire at UFC 322 : Getting outwrestled twice by excellent grapplers doesn’t provide strong evidence that Edwards will next lose to a kickboxer, but it’s always hard not to side with momentum.
- UFC Rio’s Charles Oliveira explains Gamrot hesitance: ‘I have to change my whole game plan’: Despite the hesitation, Oliveira vs. Gamrot is officially signed, and UFC Rio is arguably better than ever. I’m excited for the scrambles!
- Reiner de Ridder slams Paulo Costa for turning down UFC Vancouver fight: ‘Shut up and say yes’: Costa vs. “RDR” would’ve been the better fight, but there’s no chance “Borrachinha” was making weight on short-notice.
Insomnia
We’re only hearing one side of the story here, but keeping a fighter sidelined for ages with no plans to book him is rough. Prime years are short in this sport, and Hakeem Dawodu definitely lost out on some paydays by waiting around.
As mentioned above, “Rocky” is still a gifted striker! A comeback would be pretty cool to see.
Ryan Garcia goes after Shakur Steveson! Think we’ll ever get a match up between the two?
By recreating a PRIDE-style poster, The Smashing Machine team has done better work than any UFC poster in years.
Some slick movement here from Tom Aspinall, who never allowed his opponent to settle into top position.
Ben Askren’s recovery continues to be incredible to watch. “Funky” looks so much more like himself!
At 44 years of age, Georges St. Pierre hasn’t lost a step.
Slips, rips, and KO clips
Rocky Marciano was one of the meanest punchers in boxing history. Also, it’s fascinating to see the old school quick counter and willingness to let a boxer get absolutely pummeled here.
How did the opening double not break a few ribs?
How long until we see Paddy Lesnar inside the Octagon?
Random Land
“Get a load of this guy!”
Midnight Music: Psych rock, 1969
Sleep well Maniacs! More martial arts madness is always on the way.
