Daniel Cormier recently addressed the speculation around Islam Makhachev considering retirement after only a few more UFC contests. Speaking directly to fans, Cormier expressed concern about the prospect of Makhachev stepping away so soon, drawing parallels between Makhachev and Khabib Nurmagomedov’s early exit from competition. He urged followers of the lightweight champion to focus their attention on Makhachev’s upcoming fights and savor what remains of his career.

In a video on his YouTube channel, Cormier commented on recent reports by stating:

”Islam Makhachev might have three fights, including Jack Della Maddalena. That right there is where our energy should be spent as Islam fans. How in the world does it feel like another dominant champion may be saying ‘It’s about time?”

He added further perspective:

”If Islam comes out and tells us ‘I’ve got three fights left’, we gotta lock in. We saw Khabib do it, and he never looked back. That should be worrisome to us as mixed martial arts fans. We have so many more fights we want to see. We want to see him against Jack Della, we want to see him against Usman, and Ilia Topuria. It’s crazy!”

Update on Ben Askren’s Critical Health Condition from His Wife

Ben Askren, a well-known figure in mixed martial arts and former UFC welterweight competitor, remains in a serious medical condition after being hospitalized with severe pneumonia earlier this month. His health declined rapidly, and his wife provided a recent update detailing the challenges he continues to face. Askren remains on a ventilator and extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support while doctors assess whether a lung transplant will be necessary.

Sharing on social media, she wrote:

”Ben is still on a ventilator and ecmo to support him while he heals. There are good days and bad, but on the good, they have been able to wean his sedation enough for him to open his eyes and squeeze hands. His body can’t handle coming off sedation too much yet. I’m still praying for a miracle with his current lungs, but they are currently starting the evaluation process for lung transplant.”

She continued to urge for prayers and support:

“Please pray for his continued healing, and if transplant is the solution, that he can get on the list quickly and easily. I know transplants are such a blessing and I’m overwhelmed at the thought of him receiving a gift like that. No one would take better care of that gift than Ben.”

Dana White Comments on Chances of Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall Title Unification Fight

UFC President Dana White recently gave an update on the anticipated light heavyweight title showdown between Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall. While the fight has generated significant interest among MMA fans, White indicated that negotiations remain uncertain, and the UFC is prepared to move forward without the bout if terms cannot be agreed upon soon. He urged supporters to remain patient for an official announcement within the coming weeks.

During an appearance on The Jim Rome Show, White explained:

”Jon Jones has never turned down an opponent here or been afraid to fight anybody… We’ll see how this thing plays out over the next couple of weeks. If we can’t get this fight done, we’ll move on, quickly. We’ll have the answers in the next couple of weeks.”

Implications for UFC Title Fights and Future Developments

The updates from Dana White highlight a critical juncture for the UFC’s title fight landscape, especially with top contenders Jon Jones and Tom Aspinall. Fans eager for this high-profile matchup may need to brace for delays or alternative plans if negotiations falter. Meanwhile, Daniel Cormier’s comments on Islam Makhachev reinforce the urgency of enjoying current champions before any unexpected retirements occur. The situation with Ben Askren serves as a sobering reminder of the health risks athletes face outside the octagon, underscoring the MMA community’s ongoing support.

As the UFC prepares to unveil its next steps in upcoming weeks, followers of the sport will be watching closely to see whether the much-anticipated Jones-Aspinall clash moves forward or if the promotion redirects its focus elsewhere. In the meantime, attention remains on emerging fighters and other potential championship bouts within the organization.