The Ariel Helwani Show

On this week’s show, Petesy Carroll is joined once again by Ben Fowlkes and the returning Shaheen Al-Shatti.

With rumors swirling that Yair Rodriguez may get another crack at Alexander Volkanovski, the lads discuss whether that's the correct fight to make, what happens to Mosvar Evloev, and more (04:56).

Then, the conversation shifts to news that Ilia Topuria has split from his longtime coaches (19:55), leading to discussion about whether the timing will be problematic, and comparisons to Conor McGregor regarding how the star controlled his most recent training camps (22:28).

After touching briefly on th...

The Boys in the Back start the show by breaking down the timeline of Jon Jones’ recent flurry of social media activity (02:34), before debating his complicated legacy and whether retiring before fighting Tom Aspinall hurts how he's viewed (19:57).

UFC featherweight and TUF winner Marion Santos joins the show after his decision victory over Sodiq Yusuff at UFC Vegas 106 to discuss the win, growing up in Brazil, being inspired by Anderson Silva and Charles Oliveira, his relationship with teammate Matheus Camilo, dreams of playing soccer, and more (32:38).

The Boys rank their P4P summer activities (1:05:30), listen to...

Ariel Helwani and the Boys in the Back kick off the show by answering your On the Nose questions (06:57).

Renato ‘Money’ Moicano returns ahead of his fight against Beneil Dariush at UFC 317 to discuss Gilbert Burns’ loss, his short-notice title shot against Islam Makhachev, opening a gym in South Florida, his viral social media posts, Arman Tsarukyan’s tough spot, Paddy Pimblett, and Jon Jones possibly retiring. He finishes with some financial insights (1:01:38).

NBA veteran Michael Carter-Williams previews his May 29 boxing debut alongside trainer Jeovanny Estela and discusses how he got into boxing, meeting his trainer...

Ariel Helwani and Ade Oladipo kick off the show with a deep dive into Dave Allen’s brutal knockout of Johnny Fisher in their rematch (01:56), and the ‘White Rhino’ joins the program to talk about the victory, being motivated by his family, potential next matchups, and gives Fisher some advice (13:57).

Next, the duo discusses 20-year-old heavyweight phenom Moses Itauma’s 2025 debut against Mike Balogun (43:51), followed by a look at the recent drama surrounding the highly-anticipated Canelo vs. Crawford megafight, including Eddie’s concerning comments (47:36).

Then, they touch on the rumored booking of Teofimo Lopez vs. Jaron 'Boo...

Angela Lee Pucci, former ONE atomweight champion, joins Ariel Helwani to discuss her nonprofit organization, Fightstory, which provides mental health support for combat sports athletes. She discusses her late sister's influence, partnering with the UFC, new initiatives, misconceptions about fighters seeking help, the negative impacts of social media, getting back into training, and more (07:43).

Mateusz Gamrot calls in to break down his upcoming fight against Ludovit Klein, his loss to Dan Hooker, his back and forth with Arman Tsarukyan, Paddy Pimblett’s rise through the rankings, living at American Top Team, Ilia Topuria vs. Charles Oliveira, potential ma...

Ariel Helwani and the Boys in the Back get started by debating the meaning of Jon Jones’ latest series of social media posts (09:44) and Chael Sonnen’s latest comments (25:48), along with the news and notes from around the sport.

Michael Morales, undefeated UFC phenom and ranked welterweight, joins after his massive first-round KO over Gilbert Burns to discuss the quick finish, meeting fellow Ecuadorian 'Chit'o Vera, wanting to beat up Ian Machado Garry, his path to the title, and more (44:30).

Ian Machado Garry returns to the program to discuss being the backup fighter at UFC 315, Jack...

On this week’s show, Petesy Carroll is joined by The Craic alum Chuck Mindenhall and Ben Fowlkes.

After a brief tangent discussing Petesy’s dream journal, the fellas dive into the biggest storylines surrounding Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis — most notably, whether Du Plessis is being slept on yet again as an underdog (8:29).

From there, the conversation shifts to the PFL, which is back in the headlines — and not in a good way. The crew unpacks the organization parting ways with one of its biggest stars, Patchy Mix, and what that might signal for the...

The Boys in the Back begin the show by breaking down the various cases for MMA's lightweight GOAT, including where Islam Makhachev falls in that conversation after vacating his title (01:40).

Then, they discuss the ongoing war of words between Makhachev and Ilia Topuria (32:31), before looking ahead to this weekend's UFC Vegas 106 (49:36).

Finally, the Boys make picks (1:09:26), give their P4P lists of Chicago's best (1:22:31), listen to your voicemails (1:42:19), and answer Super Chats (2:00:42).

Leave us a voicemail: +1-415-787-2482

Ariel Helwani kicks off the the show by reacting to the news that Patchy Mix has been released by the PFL (01:44).

Valentina Shevchenko calls in after her UFC flyweight title defense against Manon Fiorot and talks training at Tristar gym, making a bet with Fiorot, a superfight with current strawweight champion Zhang Weili, Chael Sonnen’s problem with her, and more (03:54).

A fired-up Darren Till joins to discuss his Misfits Boxing 21 fight against Darren Stewart, his future in the sport, Dricus du Plessis vs. Khamzat Chimaev, a potential fight with KSI, Tommy Fury’s pullout, Mike...

On this special breaking news edition of the show, Ariel Helwani and the Boys in the Back react to Dana White's announcements (01:15), including, Islam Makhachev vacating his lightweight title in order for Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira to compete for undispiuted gold at UFC 317 (08:33).

After discussing White's comments that Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall would be booked soon (26:35), the crew talk about Khamzat Chimaev vs. Dricus du Plessis being announced as the headliner for UFC 319, the promotion's return to Chicago (28:57).

They close out with some more social media posts by Magomed Ankalaev, challenging Alex Pereira...

Ariel Helwani and Ade Oladipo get things started by reacting to the announcement of 46-year-old Manny Pacquiao’s risky return against Mario Barrios and debate how he got the title shot (02:41).

Then, Viddal Riley joins the show after his breakout win over Cheavon Clarke to win the British Cruiserweight title and talks being KSI’s trainer, nerves leading into the fight, earning the sport’s respect, difficult fight conditions, distancing himself from influencer boxing, and calls for a big spot next (16:01).

Anthony Cacace calls in fresh off stopping Leigh Wood in enemy territory and breaks down h...

Ariel Helwani kicks off a loaded show with Bill Haney, father and coach of boxing champion Devin Haney, who joins Ariel in studio and defends his son’s victory in Time Square over Jose Ramirez, slams Ryan Garcia for his loss and excuses, and talks Benn-Eubank Jr., the negative press after Devin's fight, the state of Devin’s rematch against Garcia, the PED problem in boxing, his feud with Oscar De La Hoya, and more (03:35).

Vitor Belfort calls in after his UFC Hall of Fame announcement to discuss his part in building up MMA as a mainstream spor...

Ariel Helwani and the Boys in the Back start with a breakdown of UFC 315 and the aftermath of Jack Della Maddalena’s huge title fight win over Belal Muhammad, PFL Belfast, and more news from around the sport (07:03).

Sean Brady calls in to talk about the welterweight division after JDM’s win, Belal’s confusing strategy, a possible fight with Ian Machado Garry, GC's relentless Aviron bike callouts, Islam Makhachev moving up, Jeremy Stephens' diss track, and more (1:16:04).

Aiemann Zahabi reunites with his doppelganger following the biggest win of his career to defend his Jose Aldo v...

Ariel Helwani and Chuck Mindenhall recap UFC 315, starting with new UFC welterweight champion Jack Della Maddalena dethroning Belal Muhammad (04:06) and the immediate reaction from Islam Makhachev (11:01), who hopes to challenge for that title.

After talking about the main event scorecards (18:00), the duo transitions to the co-main event (24:55), which saw Valentina Shevchenko defend her UFC women's flyweight title from Manon Fiorot.

Next, they discuss the wild war between Jose Aldo and Aiemann Zahabi (33:15), including whether the judges got it right.

Finally, they react to Zhang Weili's post about the co-main event (41:30), before breaking down...

Petesy Carroll is joined by familiar faces Chuck Mindenhall and Ben Fowlkes to talk all things UFC 315.

The lads kick off the show by breaking down the fallout from Jose Aldo’s weight struggles, including how it could impact his chances against Aiemann Zahabi (3:02).

After debating whether the tail end of Aldo’s career is being mishandled, Petesy shifts the focus to this weekend’s main event. The trio discuss Belal Muhammad finally earning the respect of the oddsmakers, and whether Jack Della Maddalena is being overlooked as the challenger (20:01).

The result of the UF...

The Boys in the Back have returned from Des Moines to preview UFC 315, but first, they touch on recent social media posts by Alex Pereira and Magomed Ankalaev (01:53) and the PFL canceling its upcoming Paris event (04:26).

Next, they dive into the UFC 315 main event (23:12), co-main event (36:18) and the rest of the card (41:50), before making their picks (55:09).

Then, they close the book on UFC Des Moines with winner Montel Jackson, who opens up about his life, career, and mission to inspire the next generation (1:00:38) and debut a brand new Fight Feast from their Iowa trip (1:31:23).

Ariel Helwani starts the show with some UFC and PFL breaking news, and the Boys in the Back join to answer your On the Nose Questions (04:39).

Retired UFC fighter, veteran, and former FOX commentator Brian Stann checks in to discuss his move from broadcaster to CEO. He reminisces about fighting on Memorial Day weekend, his start in MMA, potentially running for president, the current state of the sport, Bo Nickal’s setback, his Khamzat Chimaev prediction, Jon Jones, and more (1:01:22).

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer Sean “X-Pac” Waltman joins the show to talk getting through a dark...

Ariel Helwani and Ade Oladipo are joined by Conor Benn for a conversation about his thrilling bout against Chris Eubank Jr. and his feelings on the rivalry now that the dust has settled. Then, he reacts to the Times Square boxing card and teases the Eubank Jr. rematch for September (03:02).

The duo discusses the Times Square show and the disappointing performances from its biggest stars, including Ryan Garcia’s shocking loss to 'Rolly' Romero, before they debate the possibility of Garcia's rematching Devin Haney and 'Boots' Ennis meeting Teofimo Lopez (26:12).

Next, move on to Canelo Al...

Ariel Helwani and the crew kick things off by discussing Islam Makhachev’s next fight and some big team news (05:49).

Leigh Wood, the pride of Nottingham, calls in ahead of his homecoming fight against streaking IBO super featherweight champion Anthony Cacace on Saturday to discuss his return to the ring, Premier League drama, life after fighting, and more (15:33).

The Larry O’Brien Trophy, the NBA's championship prize, graces Ariel and the Boys with its presence on set. Plus, Yahoo NBA analyst Kevin O'Connor joins in-studio to talk playoff basketball (37:49).

Bo Nickal joins for his...

Ariel is joined by the Boys in the Back, fresh off their trip to Des Moines, to unpack the huge weekend in combat sports, including Cory Sandhagen’s big win, Bo Nickal’s shocking loss, the underwhelming Times Square card, Canelo’s victory and next fight against Terence Crawford under TKO Boxing, Naoya Inoue’s scary performance, and more (06:15).

Cory Sandhagen is back following his main event against Deiveson Figueiredo at UFC Des Moines to discuss his injury-induced victory, his social media breakout and lifestyle changes, writing a sci-fi book, his claim to a title shot, Bo Nickal’s...

The Craic is back! Petesy Carroll is joined by the usual suspects, Chuck Mindenhall and Ben Fowlkes, to break down all the latest headlines.

They kick things off by discussing Ilia Topuria, who’s set to fight at UFC 317 on June 28 — but who’s his opponent? The lads weigh in on who they think would make for Topuria’s most exciting matchup (03:58). 

One of those opponents is Islam Makhachev, but does Makhachev want to fight Ilia, or move up to welterweight to face the winner of Jack Della Maddalena vs. Belal Muhammad? The trio explore what the...

The Boys in the Back kick things off with a conversation about Tom Aspinall’s record-breaking tenure as UFC interim heavyweight champion and tackle Jon Jones' looming absence (01:56).

Malcolm Wellmaker, fresh off his bonus-winning KO in Kansas City, joins to discuss making his UFC debut, quitting his job, future plans, and a potential slot on the upcoming Atlanta card (29:30).

Next, the Boys prepare for their Iowa trip by breaking down UFC Des Moines (51:28), and then preview the Times Square boxing card (1:32:15).

Finally, they deliver their P4P tourist traps (1:45:29), craft their parlay (2:17:58), air yo...

Two-time WWE Hall of Famer "Stone Cold" Steve Austin joins the show to discuss going from athlete to interviewer, his Hall of Fame match against Bret Hart, Logan Paul’s WrestleMania 41 offer, his opinion on the state of the business, John Cena’s heel turn, and reflects on his most memorable career moments (15:43).

French football legend and former Manchester United star Patrice Evra previews his MMA debut and goes into why he chose to sign with the PFL, debuting in Paris, calling out Luis Suárez, his future in the sport, his relationship with Khabib, training with Paul...

Ariel Helwani and Ade Oladipo start this stacked show by reacting to Chris Eubank Jr.’s massive win over Conor Benn (01:22) and Eubank Sr.’s shocking arrival at the event (04:52). Then, they debate the possibility of a rematch as Ade voices some concerns (16:03).

They break down Friday's card in Times Square (28:41), headlined by the return of Ryan Garcia, and discuss his potential rematch with Devin Haney (31:18). Ade makes a bold prediction for the Teofimo Lopez vs. Arnold Barboza Jr. fight, before circling back to Garcia and Haney’s returns. 

Next, they preview Canelo’s fight in Saudi...

Ariel Helwani and the gang kick off the show with the latest news and notes in combat, including Tom Aspinall’s tenure as longest reigning interim champion (6:33).

Ryan Garcia checks in ahead of his return to the ring against Rolando 'Rolly' Romero on Friday to talk about the changes he’s made, fighting in Times Square, rematching Devin Haney in October, his feud with Bill Haney, his relationship with Romero, his removal from the RIZIN card, his status with Golden Boy Promotions, Tank Davis’ controversial draw, and more (14:20).

Matchroom Boxing's Eddie Hearn joins Ariel in studio...

Ariel Helwani starts the show with a deep dive into his life-changing experience announcing a draft pick for the Buffalo Bills, before the Boys join in to react to UFC Kansas City and Ian Machado Garry's win (04:36).

Georges 'Rush' St-Pierre — Ariel’s MMA GOAT and Canadian legend — discusses his new hot sauce company, the UFC’s return to Montreal, the slump in Canadian MMA, cornering Aiemann Zahabi, the harsh reality of retiring from the sport, his relationship with Dana White, Belal’s claim to GOAT status, Tom Aspinall’s future, and more (33:37).

Ian Machado Garry joins the pr...

Petesy opens the show by teeing up the biggest stories of the week, then dives into an exclusive sitdown interview with rising Irish star Paul Hughes (06:17).

Hughes kicks things off by sharing how it feels to headline his homecoming fight at the SSE Arena in Belfast. He and Petesy take a trip down memory lane, reminiscing about Paul’s roots in the local amateur scene.

The Irishman gets real about his hopes for a rematch with Usman Nurmagomedov, and lays out how he thinks that fight would play out (16:36).

Next, Hughes gives his ta...

The Boys in the Back begins with a conversation about Dricus du Plessis teasing fight news (04:16), before jumping into a comprehensive preview of Ian Machado Garry vs. Carlos Prates and the rest of UFC Kansas City (23:44).

Next, they break down all angles of the highly-anticipated grudge match between Chris Eubank Jr. and Conor Benn (1:04:56).

Then, give their picks for the weekend (1:35:55), list their top P4P fighting games (1:44:55), listen to your voicemails (2:11:23), and answer Super Chats (2:44:33).

Ariel and the Boys break down the latest Ilia Topuria title fight news, what’s next for lightweight’s biggest stars, preview the massive weekend in combat sports, and answer your burning On The Nose questions (18:24).

Dion Dawkins — Buffalo Bills babyface, Pro Bowl tackle, and combat sports fan — joins the show to talk WrestleMania 41, his potential future in boxing, previews the upcoming season, and reveals Ariel’s big news regarding the NFL Draft (28:50).

TNA Heavyweight Champion Joe Hendry makes his triumphant return to the program following his huge WrestleMania 41 debut against Randy Orton to discuss what led u...

Ariel Helwani and Ade Oladipo reunite and kick off the show with Eddie Hearn, who previews the long-awaited Chris Eubank Jr. vs. Conner Benn grudge match (04:49). He also reacts to Jake Paul's fight against Julio César Chávez Jr. and gives an update on Shakur Stevenson.

Then, they react to Chris Eubank Sr.'s recent comments about his son (36:54), diving deeper into the strained relationship and the history of the Eubank-Benn rivalry.

Next, they break down Ben Whittaker’s stoppage victory against Liam Cameron and the aftermath (50:54), before discussing Frazer Clarke’s return (58:36), and circli...

Ariel and the Boys In The Back kick off Tuesday’s show with a discussion of WWE’s record-breaking weekend, Chael Sonnen suggesting that Jon Jones vs. Tom Aspinall is agreed upon, the latest news around Ilia Topuria and International Fight Week, and more (05:02)

WWE legends Lex Luger and Diamond Dallas Page join Ariel to discuss Lex’s delayed Hall of Fame induction, Dallas’ role in helping other wrestlers gain recognition, Lex’s devastating spinal injury and how Dallas aided his recovery, the evolution Lex’s relationship with Vince McMahon, and more stories and insights from their unbelievable...

Ariel Helwani and the crew kick things off with an honest assessment of WrestleMania 41 and preview Monday’s episode of Raw (02:19).

Anthony Smith breaks down his retirement bout against Zhang Mingyang at UFC Kansas City, his mindset going into his final fight, the passing of beloved coach Scott Morton, post-UFC plans, and more (26:10).

Scott D’Amore — Canadian wrestling legend, Uncrowned Columnist, and Maple Leaf Pro Wrestling founder — joins Ariel to discuss WrestleMania 41, John Cena’s heel turn, his experience in the wrestling business outside of the US, and more (1:03:49).

Ariel and the Boys in the Bac...

In another special episode, Ariel Helwani looks back at some of his classic interviews and tells the untold stories behind each, including:

- Chael Sonnen, after beating Nate Marquardt at UFC 109, and on the verge of igniting his rivalry with Anderson Silva (07:07)

- Dana White, embarrassed and disgusted by Anderson Silva's performance against Demian Maia at UFC 112 (20:27)

- Josh Koscheck, moments after being sucker punched by Paul Daley at UFC 113 (32:20)

- Boxing great James Toney, before his MMA debut against Randy Couture at UFC 118 (42:52)

- Sensei Steven Seagal, in...

On a special Wednesday edition of The Craic, Petesy Carroll is joined by Chuck Mindenhall and The Sun Sport’s Chisanga Malata to discuss what the future holds for Paddy Pimblett following his dominant win over Michael Chandler (5:24).

They dive into Pimblett’s backstory and reflect on how unbelievable it is that he’s reached this level, before exploring the potential matchup teased by his post-fight callout of Charles Oliveira (18:19).

Next, they unpack the release of Ilia Topuria’s highly anticipated interview with Joe Rogan, and weigh in on Khabib Nurmagomedov claiming Arman Tsarukyan would be tough...

Ade Oladipo hosts the show solo this week, beginning with an interview with Hamzah Sheeraz (02:34), who breaks his silence after the controversial split draw against Carlos Adames in February. He opens up about being 'let down' by some members of his team, mentally resetting, and his new pairing with coach Andy Lee.

Next, Ade reacts to Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis’ big win over Eimantas Stanionis (20:45) and wonders what's next for the welterweight, before touching on Raymond Ford blanking Thomas Mattice on the same card (23:34).

Commentator Adam Smith joins to cover a bevy of topics (29:39), including the 40th ann...

The Boys in the Back kick off with a discussion about the impending UFC rights deal (01:56), before turning to the debate over MMA's featherweight GOAT (17:41).

Then, they're joined by Meadowlark Media's Anthony Calatayud to play matchmaker for UFC 314's winners and losers (1:02:12).

After recapping last week's picks (1:25:06), The Boys deliver their P4P lists of professional wrestlers (1:34:49), inspired by WrestleMania 41.

Finally, your voicemails (1:54:55) and Super Chats (2:14:12) get the shine.

 

Ariel Helwani and the gang kick off the show by reacting to everything UFC 314, including huge wins by Alexander Volkanovski and Paddy Pimblett (3:36).

Jean Silva discusses his big stoppage win over Bryce Mitchell at UFC 314, barking in Mitchell's face after choking him unconscious, what's next, a potential fight against Volkanovski and more (46:36).

Dominick Reyes discusses his knockout of Nikita Krylov at UFC 314, his big career turnaround, overcoming deep vein thrombosis, how close he is to returning to title contention and more (1:13:58).

Ian Machado Garry discusses his UFC Kansas City headliner against Carlos Prates...

3PAC — Ariel Helwani, Chuck Mindenhall, and Petesy Carroll — are back for the UFC 314 Post-Fight Show.

They begin with reaction to Alex Volkanovski reclaiming UFC featherweight gold (06:03), including who's next for the champ and where he stacks up against Jose Aldo in the featherweight GOAT convo (13:52).

Ariel gives the scoop on Islam Makhachev and Ilia Topuria (17:47), as well as what's looking likely for the main event of International Fight Week.

Ignited by Paddy Pimblett's star-making performance against Michael Chandler (23:14), the boys wonder whether Charles Oliveira, Justin Gaethje or even Conor McGregor might be in Pimb...

With Petesy Carroll away from the helm, Uncrowned’s Chuck Mindenhall and Ben Fowlkes man the ship to preview UFC 314.

The duo kicks things off by reacting to the official weigh-ins where all main card fighters successfully made weight (01:15).

Then, they break down the paths to victory for Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes (02:30) and speculate whether a loss could spell retirement for the Australian former champ (12:28).

Lopes appears to have his sights set on a different opponent — surprisingly, Yair Rodriguez — despite the two not being matched up. Chuck and Ben dissect their press confer...

The Boys in the Back are joined by Ariel Helwani to discuss the breaking news about GFL's future (02:51), before bringing their best Miami vibes to a UFC 314 mega preview (27:55).

Plus, they make their picks (1:11:36), roll out a Fight Feasts focused on pie... or is it pi? (1:40:33), and give their P4P pie rankings (1:52:38).

Finally, they debut the brand new voicemail segment (2:08:16) and answer your Super Chats (2:21:15).