Ilia Topuria statement breakdown; Manel Kape might skip the line after UFC on ESPN 73

On this episode, Eric McMahon and John Morgan recap UFC on ESPN 73, where Manel Kape may have very well earned himself a title shot with a first-round finish of Brandon Royval.

Additionally, the two react to Ilia Topuria’s strongly worded statement, where he revealed he’s battling attempts at extortion.

Plus, a preview of Saturday’s CFFC 149 event, as well as some discussion on the PFL’s potential future on ESPN.

All this and more ...

0:00 – The end of the ESPN era, Eric’s near miss, and Manel Kape’s emphatic win
7:05 – Kevin Vallejos arrives at UFC on ESPN 73, and the future of the UFC Apex
10:21 – Breaking down Ilia Topuria’s claims of extortion and what it means to the UFC
25:27 – Topuria appears to have lengthy battle ahead; will UFC lightweights benefit?
38:33 – Looking to the launch of the Paramount era
41:49 – CFFC 149 preview 46:31 – PFL primed for big 2026
50:01 – Dana White vs. Francis Ngannou