Eddie Hearn: The UFC Is In a Recession! Plus, UFC Des Moines and My Issue with Islam Makhachev

On today’s episode, I tell you why I have a problem with Islam Makhachev basing his future on the outcome of Belal Muhammad vs. Jack Della Maddalena. And for everyone doubting Kamaru Usman ... have you forgotten who Kamaru Usman is?

Then,  I look ahead to Bo Nickal vs. Reinier de Ridder this weekend at UFC Des Moines, but apparently, Nickal weighed needs to cut a considerable amount of weight this week. I’ll also tell you whether I agree with Vegas, who has Nickal as the heavy favorite. 

Next, UFC analyst Din Thomas thinks Jon Jones may never take the fight with Tom Aspinall, and I can tell you this matchup is definitely losing steam. Also, Eddie Hearn told Ariel Helwani that MMA is struggling, and I disagree. And finally, I have some PR advice for Francis Ngannou after hearing his name floated as a potential opponent for Eddie Hall.

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CHAPTERS:

• Makhachev's future (00:00)
• Doubting Kamaru Usman (12:11)
• Nickal weighs in at 222 pounds (22:29)
• Nickal vs. RDR (30:59)
• de Ridder respects du Plessis (39:48)
• Din Thomas: Jones may never fight Aspinall (47:37)
• Eddie Hearn: MMA in a recession (57:13)
• PR advice for Ngannou (01:04:56)