What can be done about the issue of eye pokes in MMA? Is Ilia Topuria poised for an extraordinary three-fight winning streak in MMA history, and will the UFC hinder his progress? And of all the fights that have been canceled, which one is the most disappointing?
All this and more in this week’s mailbag. To submit your own question, contact @benfowlkesMMA or @benfowlkes.bsky.social.
@lexsimon.bsky.social: At this point why not just return to the NHB days and make eye pokes legal? Would the sport and fighting strategy change that much?
It’s astonishing to think that eye pokes have been a persistent issue in MMA despite being a known problem for years. It’s evident that little has been done to address the problem effectively. The design of the gloves appears to be a significant factor, with potential solutions available but not implemented. The lack of action to prevent eye pokes is concerning, especially considering the impact they can have on fights.
Replay confirmation and automatic point deductions for fouls like eye pokes could be a step in the right direction. However, the need for better glove designs to minimize these incidents is apparent. The UFC’s failure to prioritize this issue despite previous efforts is disappointing, leaving fighters vulnerable to unnecessary risks.
What fight that was booked but cancelled do you wish happened the most?
I am enough of a dreamer to think that Rumble would of beaten Jones
Making myself sad looking at some of these
Cejudo vs Aldo – Leon vs Khamzat – RDA vs Conor – Tony vs Khabib
— Conor (@NeedXtoseePosts) February 25, 2025
@NeedXtoseePosts: What fight that was booked but cancelled do you wish happened the most?
I am enough of a dreamer to think that Rumble would of beaten Jones
Making myself sad looking at some of these
Cejudo vs Aldo – Leon vs Khamzat – RDA vs Conor – Tony vs Khabib
Reflecting on fights that were scheduled but ultimately canceled, the missed opportunity between Khabib Nurmagomedov and Tony Ferguson comes to mind. While it once seemed like a significant loss, Ferguson’s decline raises doubts about the fight’s competitiveness. Additionally, the absence of Fedor Emelianenko vs. Josh Barnett in Affliction due to doping issues remains a disappointment.
Although never officially booked, the potential matchup between Emelianenko and Alistair Overeem under Strikeforce stands out as another regrettable missed chance. It’s a reminder that unforeseen circumstances can disrupt even the most anticipated fights in MMA.
If you could DOGEify the combat world, who would be purged and why?
— MMAbandwagon (@MMAbandwagon) February 25, 2025
@MMAbandwagon: If you could DOGEify the combat world, who would be purged and why?
Addressing the question of who could be eliminated from the combat world, a controversial suggestion would be to reconsider the presence of ring/octagon women. Their role, often seen as outdated and unnecessary, raises questions about their contribution to the sport. In a modern era where technology provides access to endless visual content, the traditional inclusion of ring/octagon women may no longer serve a meaningful purpose.
While acknowledging the appeal of aesthetics, the continued presence of ring/octagon women at events seems more rooted in tradition than practicality. The evolution of combat sports and societal norms may warrant a reevaluation of their role in the industry.
If Topuria fights Islam next and takes him out, would that be the most impressive 3 fight win streak in UFC history?
— Now Boarding Flight 209 (@jmprobus) February 25, 2025
@jmprobus: If Topuria fights Islam next and takes him out, would that be the most impressive 3 fight win streak in UFC history?
The potential matchup between Ilia Topuria and Islam Makhachev has garnered significant attention as a potentially remarkable three-fight win streak in UFC history. Topuria’s victories over notable opponents and his willingness to challenge himself against a higher weight class champion demonstrate his ambition and skill. The significance of such a matchup cannot be overstated, making it a highly anticipated event in the MMA community.
Dana White’s hesitance to confirm this fight raises concerns about the UFC’s decision-making process. Given Topuria’s extraordinary achievements and the potential for an epic showdown with Makhachev, any deviation from this matchup would be a missed opportunity for both fighters and fans alike.
Why is the UFC matching an unretired, resurgent Jose Aldo the way they are?
— Jay Pettry (@jaypettry) February 26, 2025
@jaypettry: Why is the UFC matching an unretired, resurgent Jose Aldo the way they are?
The handling of Jose Aldo by the UFC reflects a lack of clear direction in how to utilize his talents effectively. As a former champion in a competitive division, Aldo’s resurgence poses a challenge in matchmaking, as he remains a threat to contenders while not being treated as a priority by the UFC. The promotion’s approach to Aldo as just another fighter without recognizing his legacy and skills is a disservice to both Aldo and MMA fans.
Despite his unretirement and impressive performances, Aldo seems to be caught in a cycle of facing mid-level opponents rather than engaging in more compelling matchups that showcase his abilities. The UFC’s current strategy towards Aldo fails to capitalize on his potential and diminishes the excitement surrounding his fights.