What happens when legendary figures speak? The MMA world listens, and it’s currently buzzing with chatter from some of the game’s most respected MMA personalities. This week, we have major announcements, contract bombshells, and a lightweight picture that is clearer than ever. Whether it’s Khabib Nurmagomedov laying it all out, Joe Rogan revealing a secret about his UFC contract, or Arman Tsarukyan making bold claims, the news cycle has been nothing short of electrifying.

So, in today’s MMA Roundup, we begin with Daniel Cormier decoding Khabib Nurmagomedov’s true motivation for opposing Ilia Topuria‘s move up to fight Islam Makhachev. From there, we turn gears to Joe Rogan’s unexpected disclosure about his UFC contract and how Dana White is the glue that keeps him around. Finally, Arman Tsarukyan makes some significant waves in the lightweight division, stating who he believes is next in line for the crown. All hyped up? Well, without further ado, let’s get to it.

Daniel Cormier reveals the truth behind Khabib Nurmagomedov’s opposition

A fight that hasn’t even been signed is already making headlines—and with good cause. Daniel Cormier recently explained on his YouTube channel why Khabib Nurmagomedov and Team Islam Makhachev aren’t leaping at the opportunity to face Ilia Topuria. According to DC, when ‘The Eagle’ speaks, it is not for show; it is the truth. “He doesn’t posture,” Cormier claimed. “If he says something, it’s because he truly means it.” So, Cormier pointed out by reading out Khabib Nurmagomedov’s recent interview that he is concerned about what the fight will mean for Islam Makhachev’s legacy.

For the unaware, in a recent interview with Russian journalist Adam Zubayrave, the UFC legend stated that the reigning lightweight champion has previously given featherweight champion Alexander Volkanovski two championship shots and won both times. Despite winning convincingly, he did not walk away with a lot of praise and recognition. So, similarly, what if Ilia Topuria comes up, loses, and becomes yet another meaningless fight for Makhachev? Khabib believes that this dream fight would have no long-term impact on his protégé’s reputation. “In terms of legacy… I understand Islam’s risk,” Nurmagomedov stated. “Let him become a real contender.”

Cormier feels that it’s more than just timing; it’s about recognition. Islam Makhachev defeated ‘The Great,’ the pound-for-pound king according to him, but did not receive the deserved recognition. That is why Team Islam is afraid of making another risky move that may not pay off. What is DC’s take? This is not ducking. This is a strategy.

Joe Rogan reveals a unique clause in his contract

Joe Rogan has been a mainstay in the UFC since the late 1990s, and fans frequently wonder when, if ever, he will give up the mic. Now we have the answer directly from the man himself—and it has everything to do with Dana White. On a recent edition of the Joe Rogan Experience, the experienced commentator disclosed that his contract includes an unusual clause: if Dana White leaves, so will he. “If Dana White quits, then I might quit. It’s actually in my contract,” the UFC commentator explained, emphasizing how important the UFC head honcho’s presence is to him.

Joe Rogan has always been clear about why he continues to call fights. “I’m a professional fan,” he stated with a smile. And that passion has not waned throughout the decades. However, behind the scenes, loyalty appears to play an equally important role. “I wouldn’t be doing it if it wasn’t for him. He’s my friend. He talked me into doing it.” Rogan stated, referring to Dana White. Without the UFC CEO, the JRE host doesn’t see himself remaining in the same role. Though his role has scaled down to just covering pay-per-view events in the United States, Joe Rogan remains an integral element of the UFC. However, fans now know that the future of that role is related to a single name: Dana White. So, if White ever steps away, we might hear “It is all over!” for Rogan as well.

Arman confirms a huge lightweight fight is on the horizon

Arman Tsarukyan has made his case, and it is loud and clear. In a recent interview, the rising lightweight expressed his confidence that Ilia Topuria will “for sure” receive a shot at the 155-pound title shortly. According to ‘Ahalkalakets,’ the UFC had already guaranteed ‘El Matador’ the title opportunity after he left featherweight. “I think [Ilia] is gonna fight for the belt, for sure. I think he left 145 because they said, ‘we gonna give you title fight’.” But Tsarukyan also understands why Islam Makhachev may be apprehensive. The narrative of defeating yet another 145er does not benefit the champion. “Islam doesn’t want to fight him because if he wins, people gonna say ‘you again beat 145 fighters.’”

What about him? What does the lightweight scene look like if Makhachev faces Arman Tsarukyan and wins? Well, the answer to that, too, has been provided by the Armenian. “If [Islam] beats me, he’s done with this division. He beat everybody.” That statement alone shows Arman’s confidence in being Makhachev’s final true test at lightweight. If Islam Makhachev does not move up to welterweight and ‘Ahalkalakets’ survives his next challenge, this bout appears to be inevitable. And with Ilia Topuria hanging in the background, things are about to get rather interesting. In any case, the lightweight category is heating up quickly, and Tsarukyan wants to be there in the middle of it. But what do you think? Do you have another vision for the lightweight scene? Let us know in the comments.