The Ariel Helwani Show

The Boys in the Back are joined by Ben Fowlkes to break down all things UFC 331, starting with Joshua Van's incredible performance against Alexandre Pantoja in their rematch (01:09). Then, they recap Arman Tsarukyan knocking out Mauricio Ruffy in the first round and seemingly securing his title shot (14:03) and Patrício Pitbull's return to form (21:13). Next, they dissect the night's shocking upset, as Sean Sharaf put Gable Steveson out cold in 12 seconds (23:20). After revealing who won bonus money (39:24), they touch on the rest of the card (43:27) and give early thoughts on the newly-announced UFC 334 (53:51).

The Craic is back, with the trio of Petesy Carroll, Chuck Mindenhall, and Ben Fowlkes returning. UFC 331 takes centre stage this weekend, with Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja clashing for the flyweight belt. Petesy, Chuck and Ben break down the main event and look ahead to the rest of the card (06:01). All eyes are on Arman Tsarukyan and his chances of earning a title shot. Is a win enough to put him next in line, or could other factors stand in his way (32:20)? Gable Steveson made headlines after taking some flak from opponent Sean Saraf at the UFC 331 press conference, giving the boys plenty to unpack (41:39). Then, the trio react to news of Tom Aspinall vacating the UFC heavyweight belt (50:01). Before calling it a day, Petesy and Ben discuss Scott Coker’s new MMA promotion, Ki MMA (57:11), before answering your Super Chats (1:14:00).

Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri open the show debating who the face of boxing is in 2026, whether it be Canelo, Ryan Garcia, or even Naoya Inoue (03:28). The Muhammad Ali Revival Act got a key endorsement from Ali’s grandson, Nico Ali Walsh, on its way to the Senate, where it's expected to pass and could change the sport of boxing in a very big way (37:49).

The Boys in the Back begin the show by covering news and notes, starting with the latest on the Ali Revival Act and Nico Ali Walsh's efforts to make changes (03:57). Then, they preview UFC 331, including Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja as a potential Fight of the Year (14:06), what's at stake for Arman Tsarukyan, whether Ilia Topuria reemerging hurts Arman's chances at a title shot (43:04), and more. After making picks (1:29:48), The Boys deliver their P4P "Oh wow, congrats," listen to your voicemails (2:11:39), and answer your Super Chats (2:43:47).

Ariel Helwani kicks off the show by reacting to the UFC 331 main and co-main event faceoffs, Brian Ortega giving an update on the cut that forced him off the card, Gable Steveson teasing a Jon Jones comeback, and more (08:52). The Bad Guy himself, Chael Sonnen is back to break down UFC 331, including whether Arman Tsarukyan can secure a title shot with a win, the heat between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja, and more. Plus, he weighs in on Tom Aspinall vacating the UFC heavyweight belt, whether Alex Pereira or Josh Hokit would get the next title shot, Jon Jones going after Islam Makhachev, and more (18:01). Old friend Tyron Woodley stops by the studio for the first time, talking about his career, potentially returning to MMA, his thoughts on the newly-launched Ki MMA, competing for RAF, his relationship with GFL as an ambassador, his predictions for UFC 331, and more (1:08:29). Tito Ortiz joins Ariel to talk about some of his business ventures, his history in the world of politics, details from his near-death experience during a boating accident, lessons learned from his MMA career, his relationship with Dana White and regrets about their rivalry, wanting retired UFC fighters to be looked after, and more (2:05:59). Prospect Sean King III talks about his thrilling slam knockout at Noche UFC, his work in construction, being recognized by fellow Louisianan Dustin Poirier, having even faster knockouts on his record, when he wants to return and who he was to fight next, and more (2:49:23). The Boys in the Back and Petesy Carroll join Ariel, reacting to fiery social media posts by Ilia Topuria and Alex Pereira’s latest shot at Ciryl Gane (3:24:30). Then, they answer your On The Nose questions about Ki MMA’s potential and future, the state of UFC’s heavyweight division, Eddie Hearn’s battle against Zuffa Boxing, Conor Benn’s career trajectory, and some more blind rankings (3:34:45). The show wraps up with your Super Chats (4:26:24).

Solomonster gives his honest thoughts about both nights of TripleMania 34, including and one very noticeable thing, the best match of the weekend, and El Grande Americano getting his big moment (01:59). Thoughts on Sami Zayn regaining the WWE championship from CM Punk on Smackdown, the real reason the title change was done, and pitching a different idea for this year’s men’s War Games match at Survivor Series (13:53). Reaction to one of the best episodes of Monday Night Raw all year from Mexico City and an excellent main event between Roman Reigns and Penta, as well as what happened after the show went off the air, why the main event had to end the way that it did, and Stephanie Vaquer winning the Women’s World title back on a house show in Chile (23:53). Then, the former WWE United States champion confirmed to be on his way to AEW, thoughts on an emotional Rebel Heart episode of Dynamite, and their tribute to Andy Williams a.k.a 'The Butcher' on Collision (42:43). Finally, your questions answered about shorter title reigns and fan criticism, Keith Lee allegedly joining a cult and where it all went wrong with his career, Raw censorship on Netflix, and more. Plus the 76-year-old who shared a ring with Lou Thesz and Nick Wayne and is still wrestling (57:36).

Ariel Helwani kicks off the show covering Brian Ortega’s withdrawal from UFC 331 (01:16). Ki MMA CEO Scott Coker and matchmaker Rich Chou join Ariel in-studio to discuss details about the new promotion, including their tournament format, how they plan to attract talent, utilizing a ring instead of a cage, the competitive landscape, branding elements like the name and logo, and more (11:52). Brandon Moreno stops by following his big win over Joseph Morales at Noche UFC, talking about bouncing back after a two-fight skid, dealing with demons and the pressure of remaining on top, still loving the sport, his unique walkout song, his prediction for UFC 331's main event, and more (1:27:06). Ariel and crew react to the brewing beefs between Jon Jones and Islam Makhachev, as well as Ryan Garcia and Terence Crawford (1:53:40). Renato Moicano is back to discuss his last-minute opponent switch, going from facing Brian Ortega at UFC 331 to headlining against Tom Nolan a month later. He also talks about his exploding popularity as a streamer, his UFC 331 predictions, and more (2:21:33). The show ends with your Super Chats (3:01:58).

Ariel Helwani kicks off the show by reacting to Tom Aspinall vacating his UFC heavyweight title, delivering a timeline of events leading to the announcement, discussing Aspinall’s future, and more (08:00). Attention turns to what next for interim champion Ciryl Gane (38:45) and TKO’s weekend takeover, including the aftermath of Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn (49:44). WBC welterweight champion Ryan Garcia returns after stealing the show this weekend, talking about his newfound maturity, the brutal knockout of Conor Benn, overcoming mental health hurdles, what it was like to work with Dana White and Zuffa Boxing, Oscar De La Hoya not attending the event, having one fight left on his Golden Boy contract, his rivalry with Devin Haney, a potential rematch against Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, and more (1:30:45). Michael "Venom" Page is back to discuss his UFC exit, feeling disrespected by the promotion, finding out he wouldn’t be re-signed, how he reflects on his UFC career, potential landing spots and offers he’s received, and more (2:02:02). Michael Chandler returns to talk about his experience on the White House card, handling recent struggles, being motivated to continue fighting, training at the WWE Performance Center, still potentially fighting Conor McGregor, his opportunities outside the cage, and more (2:33:30). Old friend Ade Oladipo stops by to recap Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn fight week, including his conversation with Dana White, Garcia’s knockout of Benn, Benn’s future, Garcia’s star power, Garcia potentially fighting Terence Crawford, David Benavidez getting in the ring after Jai Opetaia’s win, White’s continued rivalry with Eddie Hearn, and more (3:08:06). Ariel and crew recap more action from the weekend, including Jean Silva’s submission of Jose Delgado, as well as impressive wins by Brandon Moreno and Tommy McMillen at Noche UFC, Dana White’s vitriol for Francis Ngannou, Conor McGregor reflecting on the Max Holloway loss, and more (3:48:23). The show wraps up with Super Chats (4:23:09).

Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri open the show breaking down Ryan Garcia's second-round stoppage of Conor Benn in Las Vegas. Is fellow titleholder Teofimo Lopez next for Garcia and how does Benn regroup after this (02:45)? Outside of Canelo-Crawford, this was Zuffa Boxing's biggest event to date. Did it meet expectations and how does Zuffa fit into the current boxing landscape (30:49)? In the co main event, Jai Opetaia stopped Noel Mikaelian to retain his cruiserweight title, before welcoming David Benavidez into the ring (47:10). We end the show by celebrating 500 episodes of the podcast (52:21)!

Petesy Carroll, Chuck Mindenhall, and Ben Fowlkes are back for this week’s Craic . First on the docket, the lads discuss the moving parts in the UFC lightweight division, including who Ilia Topuria should face next (10:51). Dana White was in vintage promotional form this week. Petesy, Chuck and Ben weigh in on his latest media appearance (34:29). This weekend brings plenty of action, with Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn in the ring (49:28) and Noche UFC inside the Octagon (55:47). The trio preview both events. After some fantasy football debate, the boys answer your Super Chats (01:14:38).

The Boys in the Back start the show with news and notes, including Ilia Topuria being "ready to fight" (05:10), UFC fighters speaking at the 2026 Republican Midterm Convention (16:06), the beef between Terence Crawford and 'Boots' Ennis (19:17), and more (25:19). Then, they recap Super RIZIN 5, which featured the RIZIN x PFL title fight between Razhabali Shaydullaev and A.J. McKee (27:08). Next, they discuss Dana White's priorities during a busy weekend for TKO (41:57) and preview Noche UFC (54:17), as well as Ryan Garcia vs. Conor Benn (1:33:15). Finally, the Boys make picks (1:45:35), deliver their P4P Noches (1:47:55), listen to your voicemails (2:12:52), and answer your Super Chats (2:51:42).

Ariel Helwani starts the show by reacting to Dana White’s comments about the departure of Michael ‘Venom’ Page, Ryan Garcia no-showing his faceoff with Conor Benn, the likelihood of an Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury fight happening, and more (07:48). Axel Sola joins to discuss his impressive knockout of Fares Ziam at UFC Paris, playing hockey in his childhood, how he discovered MMA, his ability to play piano and love of music, when he hopes to return, and more (36:25). Boxing manager Keith Connolly breaks down recent wins by Teofimo Lopez and Filip Hrgovic, Conor Benn’s upcoming fight against Ryan Garcia, Benn’s weight cut, the negotiations before Benn signed with Zuffa Boxing, his stance on the Ali Revival Act, fighters signing with broadcast networks like DAZN, and more (1:02:10). Kurtis Campbell talks about being able to bounce back after dropping his UFC debut, the crowd at UFC Paris, his signature glasses and pink shorts, getting into MMA after being bullied, training with other Liverpool-based fighters like Darren Till and Paddy Pimblett, Joanna Jedrzejczyk being his favorite fighter, and more (1:42:32). Paulo Costa is back to discuss UFC not offering him an interim title fight, his reaction to the UFC 322 announcement, ongoing contract negotiations with the UFC, his intention to sign with Matchroom Talent Agency and Eddie Hearn, being called out by Navajo Stirling, potential fights against Stirling, Jiri Prochazka, and Magomed Ankalaev, and more (2:19:59). Roberto Soldić returns to the show talking about his decision to sign with the UFC, the end of his time with ONE Championship, being motivated to showcase his skills for a larger audience, and more (2:51:07). The Boys in the Back and Petesy Carroll rejoin Ariel to answer your On The Nose questions, including Ariel’s move from news-breaker to host and beyond, Valentina Shevchenko being stripped of her title, which fight will headline UFC 334 at Madison Square Garden, and some more blind rankings (3:26:35). The show closes with your Super Chats (4:32:04).

Solomonster reacts to the sudden death of former AEW star Andy Williams a.k.a. 'The Butcher,' as well as the death of Memphis wrestling legend Bill Dundee (02:46). Thoughts on the WWE championship match between CM Punk and Johnny Gargano from Smackdown, the same Gargano who’s been planking on crates for the last six months, and the title match made for Mexico City (10:32). A review of WWE Sunday Night’s Main Event, including Lil Yachty surviving five minutes in the ring with Baron Corbin, Oba Femi vs. Bron Breakker, with the return of Bronson Reed, and Cody Rhodes vs. Randy Orton in a Wrestlemania rematch. Plus what is being said about a potential Cody heel turn (15:05). The fallout from Raw, with a lame Bloodline angle, Liv Morgan defending her Women’s World championship, Bayley’s return and conflicting reports about her status, and the first two Money in the Bank qualifying matches (34:37). The aftermath from Wembley on AEW Dynamite, with two big matches confirmed for All Out in Chicago, Kofi and Creed speak to Ariel Helwani on reports of a WWE pay cut, and the argument for Mercedes Mone as the GOAT of women’s wrestling (51:20). Why Tessa Blanchard may no longer be appearing this weekend for MLW (1:05:26) and yours questions talking Ultimate X in WWE, top stars being asked to take pay cuts, and the top three matches I’ve ever seen live in person (1:07:33).

Ariel Helwani kicks off the show by reacting to Katie Taylor’s magnificent retirement fight at Croke Park, with the crew debating the greatest sports retirements ever, before touching on the scene at UFC Paris (08:25). Saturday’s star Salahdine Parnasse is back on the show, breaking down his huge win over Dan Hooker, talking about the celebrities in attendance, the raucous crowd, the finish itself, doubling down on his Max Holloway callout, being ready to return before the end of the year against a top-five opponent, and more (39:22). Boxing Hall of Famer Russ Anber joins Ariel in-studio to discuss his new book, Unrivaled, before launching into stories from Montreal and his early days in the sport, breaking down the proper way to wrap hands, and more (1:07:20). Heavyweight boxer Thomas Carty is back on the show to discuss the bizarre ending to his fight against Dave Allen at Croke Park, where he fell through the ropes. He talks about what happened leading to the no-contest, Allen’s response in the aftermath, the fan reaction to the incident, and more (2:14:22). Dave Allen is up next, giving his own perspective on the controversy, the finishing sequence, a potential rematch, his physique for the fight, and more (2:28:38). Mario Pinto makes his show debut, discussing another memorable knockout and promo at UFC Paris, his place in the heavyweight division, not wanting to rush into a title shot, his time as a bouncer, how he handles criticism from fans, and more (3:00:06). The Boys in the Back and Petesy Carroll rejoin Ariel to finish recapping the weekend, including the future of Michael ‘Venom’ Page (TIME) and cover news and notes, with the UFC 332 main event, new Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury drama, and Ilia Topuria breaking his silence up for discussion (3:30:08). The crew answers your Super Chats to close the show (4:31:27).

Ariel Helwani reacts to Salahdine Parnasse's dominant win over Dan Hooker at UFC Pairs, Katie Taylor's historic retirement fight, and the anticipated reveal of the UFC 332 main event.

In a special post-fight reaction show, Petesy Carroll reacts to Katie Taylor's retirement fight win over Flora Pili at Croke Park.

Our usual trio of Petesy Carroll, Chuck Mindenhall, and Ben Fowlkes are back for this week’s edition of The Craic. UFC 332 is just a month away and still without a main event. The lads debate what could headline the Salt Lake City card (07:52). With the lightweight division also in need of some clarity, the boys turn their attention to Justin Gaethje, who has yet to return to the cage. What could be next for the UFC lightweight champion? (22:12). Then, they discuss the rumours that Sean Strickland could defend his belt against Nassourdine Imavov this December (30:29). This weekend sees the UFC returning to Paris with Saladine Parnasse taking on Dan Hooker (43:43), while Katie Taylor prepares for her retirement party at the esteemed Croke Park (57:49). The lads get into it all. To finish up, the trio answer your Super Chats (01:15:55).

The Boys in the Back kick off the show by covering the latest in the Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury saga (03:18) and other news and notes (15:34). Then, they preview UFC Paris (35:32), including whether it's too soon for Salahdine Parnasse to face Dan Hooker and their pick for the most disrespected UFC fighter, before talking about the other combat sports action going down this weekend (1:26:47) and making picks (1:37:26). Finally, they deliver their P4P debuts (1:40:40), listen to your voicemails (1:56:01) and answer your Super Chats (2:39:45).

Dan Canobbio and Chris Algieri open the show discussing all the fallout from Moses Itauma’s loss last weekend, from his official statement, to what was said in his corner, to if he can fully recover (04:03). The heavyweight top 10 is ever changing, so Dan and Chris rank the division's best (24:36). Andy Ruiz returns to the ring for the first time since 2024, facing Damian Knyba, a hard-hitting Polish fighter who gave Agit Kabayel all he could handle earlier this year. Can Ruiz find the magic one more time and reclaim his greatness (36:34)? We end the show touching on Katie Taylor’s final fight from historic Croke Park in Ireland on Saturday afternoon (53:49).

Ariel Helwani kicks off the show with last weekend’s big winner, Song Yadong, who recaps his massive knockout of Umar Nurmagomedov at UFC Shanghai. Song talks about why he felt it would be an easy fight, not being bothered by Umar’s comments before the fight, the experience of fighting in front of his countrymen in China, his reaction to Usman Nurmagomedov coming into the cage, Khabib Nurmagomedov wiping blood off his face, and more (05:24). Eddie Hearn returns to discuss Katie Taylor’s sendoff at Croke Park, the drama surrounding Anthony Joshua vs. Tyson Fury and whether he sees a resolution happening, the involvement of Dana White and Zuffa Boxing, his relationship with Turki Alalshikh and Sela, the latest on Matchroom Talent Agency and potential interest in working with Paulo Costa, Tom Aspinall’s return, and more (30:54). Petesy Carroll checks in with a live report from Katie Taylor’s open workout at The Helix in Dublin, Ireland (1:06:46). Ariel and The Boys in the Back answer your On The Nose questions regarding kids getting into combat sports, BKFC’s Fenway Park event, the return of The Uncrowned Beat, rumors about the UFC 332 main event, the potential for Umar or Usman Nurmagomedov to carry on Khabib’s legacy, Contender Series’ ability to create stars, and more (1:19:51). Bilal Hasan makes his show debut, talking about his memorable Contender Series debut, representing Indonesia, his viral popularity, having his dad in his corner, his fandom of Michael Jackson, his callout of Andre Lima, and more (2:02:20). Marlon ‘Chito’ Vera talks about dealing with and overcoming self-doubt during his recent skid, making major changes to his camp and life, his upcoming fight against Charles Jourdain and grappling against Jose Aldo, and more (2:34:44). Anthony Wint is our final guest of the day, discussing his rapid rise from Contender Series to UFC, having no prior combat sports experience, not loving the art of fighting, his NFL career, comparisons to Josh Hokit, battling homelessness and gambling addiction, and more (3:09:06). Ariel covers some news and notes (3:46:31), answers more On The Nose questions (3:53:43) and closes with Super Chats (4:08:20).