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by Greg Tingle

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News

Combat Sports Events

WWE
WWE SmackDown
January 3, 2025
Footprint Center
Phoenix, Arizona

WWE RAW On Netflix
January 6, 2025
Intuit Dome
Inglewood, California
WWE Legends: Past And Present, John Cena, Roman Reigns, Celebrities and more

NXT
NXT New Year's Evil
January 7, 2025
The Shrine Expo Hall
Los Angeles, California
Trick Williams vs Oba Femi vs Eddy Thorpe
Roxanne Perez vs Giulia

WWE SmackDown
January 10, 2025
Moda Center
Portland, Oregon

WWE RAW On Netflix
January 13, 2025
Sap Center
San Jose, California

UFC
UFC Fight Night 249
January 11, 2025
Apex Arena
Paradise, Nevada

WWE SmackDown
January 17, 2025
Pechanga Arena
San Diego, California

WWE RAW On Netflix
January 20, 2025
American Airlines Center
Dallas, Texas

UFC
UFC 311
January 18, 2025
Intuit Dome
Inglewood, California
Makhachev vs Tsarukyan 2

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event
January 25, 2025
Frost Bank Center
San Antonio, Texas

WWE Royal Rumble
February 1, 2025
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana

UFC
UFC 312
February 9, 2025
Qudos Bank Arena
Homebush, Sydney, Australia
du Plessis vs Strickland 2

WWE Elimination Chamber
March 1, 2025
Rogers Centre
Toronto, Ontario, Canada

*card/s subject to change

Combat Sports Watercooler

News

WWE Pro Wrestler Karrion Kross On Mox Telling Him To Call Triple H About A Contract

"After the show, he's like, he basically says 'Hey listen. I'm not telling you where to go. I'm not telling you where to make money. But I'm just saying, you really should call Triple H, cause you could make a very, very good living there" ... "He was like 'Work wherever you want, go wherever you want. But I just have a feeling that if you call him, things are going to be good for you.'

"And I was like...that's like 'What do you mean? Call Triple H? What do you mean?' He's like 'Nah, just call him...I'm giving you his number. I want you to call him.' And I was like 'Oh my god.' Well now I can't [not call him]...So now I had to...So I sent him [Triple H] a text. He calls me and is like 'Is this really Killer Kross?' Cause like, I don't know, it could be a crank caller or somebody gets his number. So we talk, and a few months later, I was in 'NXT,' and that's kind of how that worked." (Not Sam Wrestling)

News

Bully Ray on TNA Wrestling, WWE and AEW via Busted Open Radio

"TNA will grow, the WWE will grow bigger, and we will either be talking about the resurgence or the demise of AEW, and I go 50/50 on that. I want to see the resurgence, but from what I see right this very moment, I hope we're not speaking about the demise, and that's just my fair assessment on everything." (Busted Open Radio)

News

Wrestling Legend Kurt Angle On Wrestling Movies And Career via Talk Is Jericho

"I've been pretty much building to this movie I'm having done about my life's sports story" ... "The directors are Ian and Eshom Nelms. They're really talented directors. The reason why I picked them is because they were wrestlers in high school and college. So they understand my sport.

"So we got the ball rolling with that, and now we're getting investors and we're going to start picking the cast soon. This movie's only about my Olympic story, not my WWE story. There's going to be, actually, two movies. 'Angle 1' and 'Angle 2.' One's for the Olympics, one's for after, my WWE and TNA career, everything after that. It was just too much to put in one movie, so they wanted to split it in two." (Web Is Jericho)

News

Tommy Dreamer on CM Punk And Seth Rollins Raw Face To Face Promo

"It's a very 'what have you done for me lately.' There's so much to get into with CM Punk and leaving, and yes, some people can still harbor a grudge towards that"

"I can't even say 'blurring the lines,' because if you ask me, these two guys don't like each other" (Busted Open After Dark)

News

AEW Signed Adam Copeland On His Injury Via TMZ Sports

"I've actually been cleared for about three months, but then with everything that happened here with the hurricane, it just — we all had the discussion," Copeland said. "It's more important to be home and kind of get everything at home squared away, and then just come back to work."

"In that time, I've been healthy and going to the ring, and been able to go 100 in the gym" ... "It's time. I feel ready." (TMZ Sports)

News

WWE Raw Moves to Netflix

WWE has entered into a significant partnership with Netflix, debuting its flagship show 'Raw' on the streaming platform starting January 6th, 2025. This move has sparked excitement among fans worldwide due to the increased accessibility of WWE content. In the UK, all WWE programming including Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and Premium Live Events will be available live on Netflix, while in the US, only Raw will be streamed. This partnership marks the end of the WWE Network era, with WWE content now transitioning to Netflix. Fans are particularly enthusiastic about the availability of uncensored content and extensive WWE archives, including classics like WrestleMania 17. The collaboration is viewed as a transformative step for WWE's distribution strategy and is expected to influence viewing habits, potentially reintroducing wrestling into mainstream entertainment.

News

MMA/UFC

Strickland's Controversial Comments Stir MMA Community

Sean Strickland, a prominent MMA fighter, recently sparked controversy with his comments on Islam, suggesting it promotes violence and is incompatible with American values. His statements have led to a significant backlash from fans and fellow fighters alike, with many accusing him of hypocrisy given his career in a sport centered around violence. While there has been speculation about a potential match-up with Khamzat Chimaev, a Muslim fighter known for his deep commitment to his faith, no official confirmation of such a fight has been made. The discourse around Strickland's comments has brought to light the complex interplay between personal beliefs, professional conduct, and public statements within the MMA community, highlighting how fighters' personal views can influence their public and professional lives.

Sweet Daddy Siki passes away

WWE is saddened to learn that Elkin James, known to wrestling fans as Sweet Daddy Siki, passed away on December 31, 2024, at age 91.

Siki wrestled worldwide for promotions such as Maple Leaf Wrestling, Grand Prix Wrestling, and Stampede Wrestling through the ’60s and ’70s and became a fixture in the Toronto community. He trained many future wrestlers out of Sully’s Gym in Toronto, Canada, including iconic WWE Superstars Edge and Christian.

WWE extends its condolences to Siki’s family, friends and fans. (WWE)

News/Profile

Combat Sports via Grok

Combat sports are competitive physical activities involving one-on-one combat where the objective is to score more points, submit, disable, or defeat an opponent through regulated techniques. These sports have a rich history, tracing back to various ancient civilizations and have evolved into diverse forms practiced worldwide:

Boxing: A sport where competitors use their fists to throw punches within a designated ring, aiming to outscore or knock out their opponent. It's one of the oldest combat sports, with roots in ancient cultures like Egypt and Greece, and became an Olympic sport in 1904.

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA): Often seen in promotions like the UFC, MMA combines techniques from numerous martial arts including wrestling, boxing, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. It gained significant recognition in the 1990s and is known for its no-holds-barred approach within a regulated environment.

Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ): Developed by the Gracie family in Brazil, BJJ focuses on ground fighting and submission holds. It became popular through MMA and is now practiced globally for both sport and self-defense.

Muay Thai: Known as "The Art of Eight Limbs," this Thai martial art uses punches, kicks, elbows, and knee strikes, making it uniquely comprehensive in terms of striking techniques.

Wrestling: With styles like freestyle and Greco-Roman, wrestling involves grappling techniques to pin or throw an opponent. It's one of the oldest sports, with historical ties to ancient Greece, and is a mainstay in the Olympics.

Judo: A Japanese martial art emphasizing throws and submission holds, judo has been an Olympic sport since 1964, showcasing its global impact on combat sports.

Kickboxing: A hybrid sport that incorporates elements from boxing, karate, and other martial arts, focusing on both punches and kicks. It's popular in both professional and amateur circuits.

Combat sports also serve various benefits beyond competition, including physical fitness, mental toughness, and self-defense skills. They are regulated by organizations to ensure safety, with rules varying by sport and sometimes by region. In Australia, for instance, combat sports are overseen by bodies like the Combat Sports Authority of NSW, ensuring participants are registered and events are permitted.

These sports are not only about physical confrontation but also promote discipline, respect, and sportsmanship among participants. They have a cultural significance, often tied to national heritage, and continue to evolve with new techniques, safety measures, and competitive formats. (Grok)

News/Profile

Pro Wrestling

Professional Wrestling Overview: Professional wrestling is a form of athletic theater that combines mock combat with drama, where the premise is that performers are competitive wrestlers. It's distinguished by its scripted outcomes and emphasis on entertainment over genuine competition. The staged nature of matches is an open secret, maintained through a practice known as "kayfabe," where both wrestlers and spectators pretend that the performances are legitimate competitions. Wrestlers perform as characters with distinctive gimmicks, including unique attire, stage names, and entrance themes.

Current Landscape: As of early January 2025, the wrestling landscape in Australia includes notable promotions like Pro Wrestling Australia (PWA) in Sydney, which focuses on providing both adult-themed and family-friendly shows. United Pro Wrestling (UPW) is another key player, particularly in Queensland, known for its quality events and character development. Melbourne City Wrestling (MCW) has been active with events like their anniversary celebration planned for March 15, 2025.

Global Influence: Wrestling has achieved mainstream success worldwide, influencing popular culture with its terminology and concepts. It's performed across various promotions globally, with unique styles in countries like the U.S., Mexico, Japan, and Europe. The largest promotions continue to be WWE and AEW, with significant cultural impact through television, music, film, and video games.

Community and Culture: Professional wrestling has developed its own culture, including a vernacular specific to the industry. Fans engage through live events, online discussions, and fan-created content, showing the community's dedication and passion for the sport-entertainment hybrid.

For more specific details on events, wrestlers, or promotions, further exploration into current wrestling news sources would be beneficial. (Grok)

News

WWE: Events

WWE hosts a variety of events throughout the year, ranging from weekly televised shows to premium live events (PLEs), previously known as pay-per-views (PPVs). Here's a breakdown of the upcoming WWE events:

Weekly Shows:
Monday Night Raw: Broadcast live every Monday. The next event on January 13, 2025, is at the SAP Center in San Jose, CA.

Friday Night SmackDown: Aired live every Friday. The upcoming event on January 3, 2025, will be at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, AZ.

WWE NXT: Typically taped or live on Tuesday nights. The next significant event, New Year's Evil, is scheduled for January 7, 2025, at The Shrine LA in Los Angeles, CA.

Premium Live Events (PLEs) for 2025:

Saturday Night's Main Event: January 25, 2025, at the Frost Bank Center in San Antonio, TX.

Royal Rumble: February 1, 2025, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.

Elimination Chamber: March 1, 2025, at Rogers Centre in Toronto, ON, Canada, marking WWE's return to Canada for a PLE.

WrestleMania: While the exact date for WrestleMania 41 hasn't been mentioned in the available data, it's traditionally held in April.

International and Specialty Events:

WWE is planning a European Tour starting in mid-March 2025. No specific dates or locations within this tour have been detailed yet.

There's also mention of WWE considering multi-night formats for major events like the Royal Rumble and Money in the Bank in future years.

Streaming and Viewing:

All WWE PLEs are available live on Peacock in the United States and through various international WWE Network partners or other streaming services in other countries. In Australia, PPVs are shown on Main Event.

Weekly shows like Raw, SmackDown, and NXT are broadcast on traditional TV and streaming services depending on the region.

Additional Notes:
WWE has no scheduled live events in the U.S. until the European Tour in March, which has been reported to be well-received by talent for providing a break.
There's a buzz about CM Punk main eventing WrestleMania, indicating his significant role in upcoming storylines.

For the most up-to-date information, checking WWE's official website or following WWE on social media platforms would provide real-time updates on any changes or additional events. (Grok)

Wrestling/Pop Culture News

Mildred Burke biopic: Queen of the Ring

Under The Media Man Watercooler

Premiers: Newport Beach Film Festival

Lead: Emily Bett Rickards as Mildred Burke

Quotes to UPI

"I was like, 'Oh, I feel like I can do that. I just haven't'"

"I've always been super active and I pick up things pretty fast."

Burke wrestled professionally from 1937 to 1956 and launched her own World Women's Wrestling Association after leaving the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA). Rickards portrays Burke, covering her training through the wrestling organization's creation.

"Mildred was a pioneer in this arena"

"She really brought women to wrestling"

"It was heavy weights, slow on the way down, faster on the way up"

"There was a period of time where I remember putting my hands on my hips and I just felt solid, like there was just more of me."

"Wrestling is a lot about safety"

"To take the bump, you spread out"

Deborah Ann Woll, Francesca Eastwood, Marie Avgeropoulous, Kelli Berglund and Damaris Lewis also play real-life wrestlers. AEW's Kailey Farmer and WWE's Toni Rossall portray two of Burke's real-life opponents.

Farmer helped train her in pro wrestling.

"If you see us wrestling on-screen, she's leading"

"She brought me into that trust as someone who is an actor, not a wrestler but was doing my darndest."

"This ability to weave story and have it be structured but improvised -- there's an essence there that is so beautiful"

"I'd say acting actually is all contact"

"Maybe it's not punching each other all the time, but it is really about affecting the other person"

Mildred Burke Profile/News via Grok

Mildred Burke was a pivotal figure in professional wrestling, particularly known for her contributions to women's wrestling. Here's an overview based on the information available up to October 20, 2024:

Career: Mildred Burke began her wrestling career in the early 1930s and quickly made a name for herself by not only competing against but often defeating male competitors. Her heyday lasted from the mid-1930s to the mid-1950s, during which she held the NWA World Women's Championship for nearly twenty years, showcasing her dominance in the sport.

Achievements: Burke is recognized for her strength, tenacity, and for being a trailblazer for women in wrestling. She was instrumental in introducing women's wrestling to several countries, including the United States, Canada, Cuba, Mexico, and parts of Asia like Japan, where she helped lay the groundwork for what would become a significant scene for women's wrestling.

Legacy: Burke's legacy is honored in several Halls of Fame:

She was inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame as part of the Legacy Wing in 2016, recognizing her as one of the first major female competitors in wrestling.
She's also a member of the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and the Wrestling Observer Newsletter Hall of Fame, underscoring her impact on the sport.

Personal Life and Challenges: Burke's career was marked by personal and professional challenges, particularly her tumultuous relationship with Billy Wolfe, a promoter who was also her husband. Their relationship was fraught with issues, including Wolfe's infidelities and control over the business aspects of wrestling, which led to significant conflicts and legal battles over the control of women's wrestling.

Film: Her life story has been adapted into a biographical sports drama film titled "Queen of the Ring," where actress Emily Bett Rickards portrays Burke. This film aims to capture her struggle, success, and the broader impact she had on women's wrestling. The film has garnered attention for its portrayal of Burke's life, with its premiere events listed in various film festivals in October 2024.

Cultural Impact: Beyond her in-ring achievements, Burke's efforts helped to legitimize women's wrestling. Her story, involving both her wrestling prowess and her fight for the recognition of women in the sport, continues to inspire new generations of female wrestlers.

Mildred Burke's story is not just one of athletic achievement but also of breaking barriers in a male-dominated industry, making her a significant figure in both sports and women's history. (Grok)

Queen of the Ring via Grok

The term "Queen of the Ring" relates to several entities across different media:

WWE's Queen of the Ring: This is a professional wrestling tournament by WWE, where Nia Jax won the tournament in 2024, as indicated by posts on X. This event was part of WWE's broader push to highlight women's wrestling, providing the winner with a match for the WWE Women's Championship at SummerSlam.

Mildred Burke Biopic: There's a biographical film titled "Queen of the Ring" focusing on Mildred Burke, the first million-dollar female athlete and a pioneer in women's professional wrestling. This film has been shown at various film festivals in 2024, with its world premiere and subsequent screenings noted across the U.S.

South Korean TV Series: "Queen of the Ring" also refers to a South Korean drama series, part of the "Three Color Fantasy" trilogy, which aired in 2017. It's a romantic drama involving characters in a fictional narrative around themes of appearance and personal relationships.

News

MMA

UFC 311 Betting

UFC 311, scheduled for January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, features several high-profile fights with notable betting odds. Here's a breakdown of the betting information for the main events:

Main Event: Islam Makhachev vs. Arman Tsarukyan Islam Makhachev is listed as the favorite with odds around -235 to -334, indicating a strong likelihood of retaining his lightweight title.

Arman Tsarukyan comes in as the underdog with odds ranging from +200 to +250, suggesting a potential for an upset but less likely according to the bookmakers.

Co-Main Event: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Umar Nurmagomedov

Umar Nurmagomedov is the betting favorite at -220, reflecting confidence in his undefeated record and grappling prowess.

Merab Dvalishvili is the underdog with +185 odds, despite being the current champion, possibly due to Nurmagomedov's impressive run and the anticipation around his title challenge.

Other Notable Fights:
Jiri Prochazka vs. Jamahal Hill: The odds here are close, with Hill at -103 and Prochazka at -117 or vice versa, depending on the latest updates, indicating a highly competitive match.

For those interested in placing bets, these odds provide a snapshot of how the betting markets view the chances of each fighter. Remember, odds can shift as the fight date approaches based on various factors including fighter form, public betting trends, and any last-minute news.

Please note, betting on UFC fights involves risks, and these odds should be used for informational purposes. Always bet responsibly and within your means. If you're looking to place bets, consider checking with reputable betting sites for the most current odds. (Grok)

News/Profile

WWE WrestleMania Vegas 2025

WWE WrestleMania 41 is set to take place in Las Vegas at Allegiant Stadium on April 19 and 20, 2025. This will be the second time Las Vegas hosts WrestleMania, with the first being WrestleMania IX in 1993 at Caesars Palace. The event will span two nights, marking a continued trend from the format established during the 2020 event due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Event Details: WrestleMania 41, also known as WrestleMania Vegas, will feature matches from both Raw and SmackDown brand divisions. The event will be broadcasted via pay-per-view and livestreaming, with international markets able to watch on Netflix following the WWE Network's merger with the platform in January 2025. This will be the first WrestleMania to occur during Easter weekend.

Ticket Information: Tickets for WrestleMania 41 went on sale on October 25, 2024, with presales starting on October 23. There are also 2-day combo tickets available for purchase.

Cultural Impact: The event is expected to bring significant economic benefits to Las Vegas, with more than 180,000 fans anticipated to attend, occupying over 144,000 room nights. Apart from the main event, WWE will also host Raw, SmackDown, NXT Stand & Deliver, the WWE Hall of Fame ceremony, and WWE World, contributing to a comprehensive fan experience.

Notable Matches: There have been discussions about potential matches, including a bout between John Cena and Logan Paul for WrestleMania 41.

This event signifies WWE's return to one of the world's entertainment capitals, promising a grand spectacle with a mix of sports and entertainment. (Grok)

Media Man Int

Combat Sports (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/combat_sports.html

Pop Culture (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/pop_culture.html

Coming Soon (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/coming_soon.html

Wrestling News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_news.html

Wrestling Watercooler (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/wrestling_watercooler.html

AEW News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/aew_news.html

Sports News (Media Man Int) *in progress
https://www.mediamanint.com/articles2.html

2024

WWE Speed
Every Wednesday on X

WWE Crown Jewel
November 2, 2024
Kingdom Arena
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Cody Rhodes vs Gunther
Roman Reigns and The Usos vs The Bloodline

UFC Fight Night
November 2, 2024
Rogers Place
Edmonton, Canada
Moreno vs Albazi
Blanchfield vs Namajunas

BKFC
BKFC 68
Utilta Arena
Newcastle, United Kingdom
Faulkner vs Oscar

WWE Raw
November 3, 2024
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Fallout from Crown Jewel
The Road To Survivor Series

WWE NXT
NXT 2300
November 6, 2024
2300 Arena FKA ECW Arena
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Numerous ECW legends to appear

WWE SmackDown
November 8, 2024
Keybank Center
Buffalo, New York

UFC
UFC Night Night Vegas
November 10, 2024
Apex Arena, Las Vegas
Magney vs Prates

WWE Raw
November 11, 2024
Van Andel Arena
Grand Rapids, Michigan

UFC
November 17, 2024
UFC 309
Madison Square Garden
New York
Jones vs Miocic

UFC
November 23, 2024
UFC Fight Night
Yan vs Figueiredo
Galaxy Arena
Macau, SAR, China

WWE Survivor Series: War Games
November 30, 2024
Rogers Arena
Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Boxing
Frank Warren/Queensberry Promotions
Usyk vs Fury
December 21, 2024
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

UFC
December 8, 2024
UFC 310
Muhammad vs Rakhmonov
T-Mobile Arena
Las Vegas, Nevada

WWE Saturday Night's Main Event
December 14, 2024
Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum
Long Island, Uniondale, New York

UFC
UFC on ESPN 83 aka UFC Fight Night
December 14, 2024
Amalie Arena
Tampa, Florida

2025

UFC
UFC Fight Night 249
January 11, 2025
Apex Arena
Paradise, Nevada

UFC
UFC 311
January 18, 2025

WWE Royal Rumble
February 1, 2025
Lucas Oil Stadium
Indianapolis, Indiana

*card/s subject to change

Combat Sports Week

WWE Raw
November 11, 2024
Grand Rapids, Michigan

WWE NXT
November 12,, 2024
Orlando, Florida

WWE SmackDown
November 15, 2024
Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Jake Paul vs Mike Tyson
Netflix - Most Valuable Promotions
November 15, 2024
Arlington, Texas

UFC 309
November 16, 2024
New York City, New York

News

Combat Sports Week via Grok

Combat Sports Week is a term often used to describe a week packed with significant events in various combat sports like boxing, mixed martial arts (MMA), kickboxing, and more. Here's a look at what's happening based on recent information:

Jake Paul vs. Mike Tyson: This boxing event has captured a lot of attention due to its unique matchup. Jake Paul, known for his YouTube fame and his transition into boxing, is set to fight against the legendary former heavyweight champion Mike Tyson. This event is highlighted as part of a significant weekend in combat sports, showcasing the blend of traditional boxing fame with modern influencer culture.

UFC 309: Scheduled for November 16, 2024, at Madison Square Garden, this UFC event features a heavyweight title fight between Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic. This match-up is anticipated to be a highlight of the combat sports calendar, bringing together two of the most storied fighters in the division's history.

Gamebred FC Bareknuckle MMA: An event featuring 12 UFC veterans participating in bareknuckle MMA, headlined by Randy Costa for the first-ever Gamebred bantamweight belt. This event is noted for being available to watch for free on platforms like YouTube and X, indicating a shift towards more accessible viewing for fans.

These events collectively define what many enthusiasts would call a "Combat Sports Week," where fans get to witness high-profile fights across different disciplines, showcasing both established legends and rising stars in the world of combat sports. If you're a fan of these sports, this week offers a plethora of action, from traditional boxing to the raw intensity of bareknuckle MMA, all highlighted by significant bouts that could define careers and legacies. (Grok)

News

Fight Week via Grok

"Fight Week" typically refers to the week leading up to a significant combat sports event, such as a boxing match or a UFC fight. Here's what you might expect during a typical Fight Week:

Pre-Fight Activities:
Training: Fighters often scale back intense training to avoid injuries, focusing instead on fine-tuning techniques, strategy sessions, and lighter workouts. The intensity decreases as the week progresses, with some fighters tapering off to rest and hydration management.

Weight Cutting: For those in weight class sports like boxing or MMA, this is the time when fighters cut weight to meet the required limits. This can involve dehydration, dietary adjustments, and other weight loss strategies.

Media Obligations: Fighters participate in press conferences, media days, and interviews. This is when they might face off with their opponents for promotional purposes, often leading to memorable moments or trash-talking.

Open Workouts: Some events allow fans or media to watch fighters train, although these workouts are usually light and more for show than for serious training.

Weigh-Ins:
Usually held a day before the fight, weigh-ins are crucial for ensuring fighters meet the weight requirements of their division. This can be tense, with last-minute weight cuts sometimes visible.

Final Preparations:
Fighters might have their last sparring sessions early in the week, followed by rest, recovery, and mental preparation. Hydration and nutrition are carefully managed, especially after weigh-ins when fighters rehydrate and refuel.

Fan Events:
For big events like UFC's International Fight Week, there are numerous fan-centric activities like meet-and-greets, fan expos, and Q&A sessions with fighters.

Fight Day:
The culmination of Fight Week where all the preparation comes to fruition. Fighters usually have a very light day, focusing on staying calm, mentally sharp, and physically ready for the fight.

For 2024, notable events during Fight Weeks include:

UFC 303 featuring significant bouts like Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka 2, set for June, showcasing the typical fight week activities leading up to this major event.

Boxing events like Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul on November 15, where the build-up would include all the traditional elements of a fight week, amplified by the personalities involved.

These weeks are filled with anticipation, strategy, and often, drama, as fighters and their teams navigate through the final preparations for their bouts. (Grok)

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Media Man Business Blog

Just how competitive is the news media and advertising business?

An ever increasing amount of my friends and associates in and around news media told me that I should start writing more about my experiences and views on the media, entertainment and technology business, given my decade plus experience, so here's another number for your enjoyment, if not education. Apparently I'm a survivor of the media business, so I guess I'm just about as qualified as anyone to write opinion based journalism - right?

Well, just pick up a (thin) Australian newspaper, and you'll figure it out pretty quick. The Sydney Morning Herald and 'The Oz' used to be almost the size of a phone book, and then the internet came along, and as the old cliché goes, the rest is history.

It was circa 2007 when my firm, Media Man Australia (before also adding Media Man Int), reached its peak in terms of high revenue campaigns. We had dozens of fantastic campaigns running and all were returning not only fantastic results for the client, but also were very lucrative. As they say, nothing lasts for ever. What I mean by that is here we are in 2017 and we still have great clients, however the profit margin has declined considerably, and there's hundreds of more niche media firms and websites not only in Australia, but globally. This is plain terms means more advertising and news options for clients / brands.

Many of the specialist areas of media, publicity and advertising that Media Man has worked with over the decade plus of doing business are: Technology, Gaming, Environment, Sports (especially boxing, MMA and surfing), entertainment (primarily movies, television and pro wrestling aka sports entertainment), corporate entertainment (mainly bodypainting, bodyart and roving entertainers), creative arts, politics, tourism and community based news and events. That's a lot of sectors, I know.

Since circa 2010 there's been this massive expansion of niche media websites, many of which either built or purchased by either News Limited or Fairfax Media. Don't get me wrong, we love both companies and have done business and collaborated with them many times over the years, but there's only some many brands with advertising $ to spend, and then you have almost an infinity of websites for them to choose from. Add to this globalization, and a "can you beat this price" mentality, and all of a sudden there goes your profit margin.

I find The Guardian's news business model quite interesting. Selected charities, non profits and the like contribute to the Guardian's bottom line, and they in turn get coverage. Now, that business model in itself may draw some controversy, if not criticism, but the paper and the charities want to stay in business right. If they have news, they get coverage - Simples, as those infamous Merkats on Australian TV would say. They have a charity established also, and readers can also take out a subscription. Now, if any of our smarter and media savvy readers want to try to correct us on how The Guardian business model actually works, piece by piece, component by component, let us know and I promise to spread the word far and wide, but the above is a simple breakdown of how they are running things from a revenue perspective, and what it means for advertisers and paid campaigns. You are the Citizen Journalists, so show us that you are my friends.

Media can be like an airline - find a way to potentially loose millions if not billions of dollars - perfect, welcome to the industry. Oh, did I disclose... I own a modest amount of shares in Ten Holdings, Crown Limited and Virgin Australia. Well, we have a pretty good idea how they are all going don't we. Just ask out unmet friends Rupert Murdoch (News Corp) and James Packer (Crown, and a former backer of Ten). Getting the picture now? Branson's Virgin isn't looking so bad after all when you compare it to the way share prices have plunged in the main, and RB's running an airline. By the way, Sam Branson (Sundog Pictures) - very smart move to sidestep newspapers and airlines, and opt for the still turbulent film and documentary business. Can't be any less stable that the later hey. Big kudo's to Sam and Richard Branson on their campaigns with the hurricane relief efforts. Some folks are going to think it's a bit ridiculous for the Billionaires to be asking for help, but they themselves have considerable resources and mega media power and influence, and can delegate tasks to help get the clean up done. Makes for very interesting reading on Richard Branson's blogs and via the Virgin Unite website. Before asked, yes, we've done business with Virgin many times over the years in various capacities.

Let's now swing across to everyone's favorite media we love to hate - Social Media. Hello Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Twitter and friends. So, are we all journalists and broadcasters now? Apparently so. So, if we see or read something on the internet it must be true - NOT. We can all be our own self promoter with ease, but if we are all famous now, non one sticks out. How would an advertiser decide where to advertise? They can put their goods and / or services on their own websites and social media and well as feed a few dollars to Google AdWords, and Bob's your uncle, until the operation...(had to throw that outdated joke in there). It wouldn't be news media if we didn't offend someone. Speaking of offended, congratulations to Australian actor Rebel Wilson, fresh off her victor over Bauer Media. $5 million dollar settlement on the cards from what little birdies are chirping.

Media Man has social media too, and we have you here let's just go ahead and list them for your interest, enjoyment, and potential campaigns : )

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Press Release

Ric Flair Drip and TYSON 2.0 Cannabis Brands Broaden Footprint in Missouri

Carma HoldCo Signs Exclusive Deal with Opus Farms to Distribute and Manufacture the Celebrity Cannabis Brands to Dispensaries across The Show-Me State

ORANGE COUNTY, Calif., June 5, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Carma HoldCo Inc., a leading global house of brands that harnesses the power of cultural icons to transform industries, announced it has formed an exclusive manufacturing and distribution partnership with Opus Farms, a wholesale producer of high-quality cannabis products.

Under the agreement, Opus Farms is manufacturing and distributing cannabis products by TYSON 2.0, the premium cannabis brand founded by legendary boxer, entrepreneur and advocate Mike Tyson, and Ric Flair Drip, a lifestyle-focused product brand co-founded by the iconic wrestling World Champion, Ric Flair, to dispensaries across the state. Consumers can purchase the athletes' products at dispensaries such as Sunny Daze Dispensary and Shangri-La Jefferson.

"Missouri, prepare for an unparalleled experience with TYSON 2.0," said Mike Tyson, co-founder, and chief brand officer of TYSON 2.0. "Our exclusive partnership with Opus Farms and Carma HoldCo ensures our top-tier cannabis products reach consumers across Missouri. This is about delivering quality and innovation to cannabis enthusiasts and elevating the game with TYSON 2.0!"

Ric Flair chimed in, "Embrace the flair, Missouri! Ric Flair Drip is about infusing every moment with style and substance. It's more than just a product; it's an experience – a lifestyle. Get ready to drip with the Nature Boy!"

"Our partnership with Carma HoldCo will expand the reach of Ric Flair Drip and TYSON 2.0 cannabis products in Missouri," said Garry Rivera, president of Opus Farms. "At Opus Farms, we take immense pride in our commitment to excellence and precision in cultivation. Being entrusted with the production, manufacturing and distribution of Ric's and Mike's products underscores our dedication to delivering top-quality offerings to consumers."

Adam Wilks, co-founder and CEO of CarmaHold Co. stated, "Our collaboration with Opus Farms in Missouri represents another strategic step towards ensuring consumers nationwide and around the globe have access to the finest cannabis products available under our growing brand umbrella. This partnership will deliver exceptional quality and innovation to cannabis enthusiasts while further solidifying our position as a leader in the cannabis industry."

About TYSON 2.0
TYSON 2.0 is a brand founded by the legendary boxer Mike Tyson. The Company entered the cannabis ring in 2021, with a commitment to providing the highest quality products in each market that it entered. While continuing to conquer the global cannabis market, TYSON 2.0 has also expanded into a variety of other consumer product categories, spanning across the US and 16 other countries. In every endeavor, the brand undertakes Mike Tyson's legendary mindset of being the greatest of all time. Whether it's cannabis or beyond, TYSON 2.0 is committed to delivering the goods while cultivating unrivaled experiences.

About Ric Flair Drip Cannabis
Ric Flair Drip is a lifestyle-focused product brand co-founded by the iconic wrestling World Champion, Ric Flair. The brand envelops extravagance and pushes people to never settle for mediocrity. With a commitment to quality and style, each product embodies the essence of the styling, profiling, limousine-riding, jet-flying Nature Boy himself. From the initial launch to the brand's expansion into new markets, Ric Flair Drip is giving everyone the opportunity to live like the legend.

About Carma HoldCo
Carma HoldCo Inc. is a leading global house of brands that harnesses the power of cultural icons to transform industries. The company focuses on creating unique experiences and product offerings that aim to connect with, inspire and elevate consumers' lives. Within Carma HoldCo's talent roster is a lineup of globally recognized superstars, including Mike Tyson, Ric Flair and Future, who bring their legendary charisma and influence to the forefront of every venture.

About Opus Farms
At Opus Farms, we are committed to the production of premium cannabis products using cutting-edge technology and expert cultivation techniques. With a steadfast dedication to precision and care at every stage, we ensure consistently superior outcomes that exceed expectations. Opus Farms values every individual within our community. Our community is not just a part of our identity; it is integral to who we are. We deeply appreciate and respect every individual as we strive to contribute to the transformation and advancement of the cannabis industry. For more information, visit https://opusfarms.co

Websites

Tyson 2.0
https://tyson20.com

Carma HoldCo
https://carmahold.com

Ric Flair Drip
https://ricflairdrip.com

Opus Farms
https://opusfarms.co

Pop Culture/Streaming Entertainment

Top 10 Movies Streaming (United States)

1. The Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes (Hulu)

2. Deadpool 2 (Disney+)

3. Twister (Max)

4. Deadpool (Disney+)

5. Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (Netflix)

6. Tarot (Netflix)

7. If (Paramount+)

8. Wicked Little Letters (Netflix)

9. Challengers (MGM+)

10. Abigail (Peacock)

Others

The Beekeeper (Prime Video)

Find Me Falling (Netflix)

My Spy: The Eternal City (Netflix)

*correct at time of publication

Streaming TV (United States)

Top 10 TV

1. House of the Dragon (Max)

2. A Good Girl's Guide to Murder (Netflix)

3. Presumed Innocent (Apple TV+)

4. Batman: Caped Crusader (Prime Video)

5. Time Bandits (Apple TV+)

6. The Decameron (Netflix)

7. The Bear (Hulu)

8. The Boys (Prime Video)

9. Mayor of Kingstown (Paramount+)

10. Evil (Paramount+)

Streaming Service

An online provider of entertainment (music, movies, multi-episode series, etc.) that delivers content over an Internet connection to the subscriber's computer, TV or mobile device.

Netflix, Amazon Prime, Binge (Australia), Kayo Sports (Australia), Hulu, HBO, Disney, ESPN Plus, Gaia, Passionflix, Spotify, Discovery, Peacock, Paramount Plus, Triller TV, UFC Fight Pass, WWE Network and Apple TV+ are examples of paid streaming services.

Examples of free services include Amazon ABC iView, Freedive, Free TV, Hoopla, Kanopy, Pluto TV, Roku Channel, Snagfilms, Sony Crackle, SBS On Demand, Tubi TV, VUDU and Xumo.

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Sharon Bentley, Managing Director, Medical Cannabis Australia