UFC 305 is set to be an electrifying event, taking place on August 17 at RAC Arena in Perth, Australia.

This pay-per-view card promises thrilling fights, including a headliner between current middleweight champion Dricus du Plessis and former two-time champion Israel Adesanya.

Du Plessis vs. Adesanya: Clash for Middleweight Supremacy

Dricus du Plessis, the reigning UFC middleweight champion, will face Israel Adesanya, a former two-time champion in the division.

This clash promises to be an explosive battle, with both fighters looking to cement their legacies in the sport.

Du Plessis, known for his aggressive fighting style, will defend his title against Adesanya, who is eager to reclaim his position at the top.

Co-Main Event: Steve Erceg vs. Kai Kara-France

In the co-main event, Steve Erceg, who was recently challenged for the UFC flyweight title, will face off against former interim title challenger Kai Kara-France.

Erceg is ranked No. 9 in the official UFC flyweight rankings and is eager to bounce back from his loss to flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja in May.

Meanwhile, Kara-France, ranked No. 4, is on a two-fight losing streak, having been defeated by Brandon Moreno and Amir Albazi.

Lightweight Clash: Mateusz Gamrot vs. Dan Hooker

Another highlight of the main card is the lightweight bout between Mateusz Gamrot and Dan Hooker.

Gamrot, ranked No. 5, is on a three-fight winning streak, recovering from a previous loss to Beneil Dariush.

Hooker, ranked No. 11, has won his last two fights, including a split decision victory over Jalin Turner in July 2023.

Both fighters are determined to climb the rankings and secure a significant victory.

Heavyweight Battle: Tai Tuivasa vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik

A heavyweight showdown between Tai Tuivasa and Jairzinho Rozenstruik is also scheduled. Tuivasa, ranked No. 10, is looking to end his four-fight losing streak.

On the other hand, Rozenstruik, ranked No. 12, has a mixed record of 2-2 in his last four fights but is coming off a TKO win over Shamil Gaziev in March.

This fight promises to be a hard-hitting contest between two powerful strikers.

Welterweight Opener: Li Jingliang vs. Carlos Prates

Kicking off the UFC 305 main card is a welterweight matchup between Li Jingliang and Carlos Prates.

Jingliang returns to the octagon after a split decision loss to Daniel Rodriguez in September 2022.

Prates, who is 2-0 in the UFC, recently won by knockout over Charles Radtke in June. This bout will set the tone for an exciting evening of fights.

UFC 305: Full Main Card Lineup

• Dricus du Plessis vs. Israel Adesanya — Middleweight Title Fight
• Steve Erceg vs. Kai Kara-France — Flyweight Bout
• Mateusz Gamrot vs. Dan Hooker — Lightweight Bout
• Tai Tuivasa vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik — Heavyweight Bout
• Li Jingliang vs. Carlos Prates — Welterweight Bout

Don’t miss UFC 305 on August 17 for a night of incredible matchups and thrilling fights!

The New York Rangers have re-signed defenseman Ryan Lindgren to a one-year, $4.5 million contract, avoiding salary arbitration. Lindgren, 26, played 76 games last season, recording 17 points and 103 blocked shots, and was instrumental in the Rangers’ run to the Eastern Conference Final.

Rangers Complete Offseason by Signing Ryan Lindgren

The New York Rangers finished their offseason work by signing Ryan Lindgren to a one-year, $4.5 million contract.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman first reported the deal, which was made just before Lindgren’s arbitration hearing.

This contract secures Lindgren for another season and helps the Rangers manage their salary cap for the future.

Ryan Lindgren’s Determination Boosts Rangers’ Performance

Ryan Lindgren, a 26-year-old defenseman, is important for the Rangers and often plays alongside Adam Fox.

In his six seasons with the Rangers, Lindgren has played 333 games, scoring three goals and 17 points last season. He is known for his tough playing style and willingness to get injured for the team, earning him a lot of respect.

Even with injuries, he often returns to play quickly, showing his determination. As coach Peter Laviolette said, “He’s a warrior.”

Cap Management & Future Decisions for the Rangers

The one-year contract is a smart move by Rangers’ General Manager Chris Drury.

With star goalie Igor Shesterkin becoming a free agent next summer and key players like K’Andre Miller and Alexis Lafrenière needing new contracts, the Rangers need to be careful with their salary cap.

Right now, after Lindgren’s deal, they have $623,476 in cap space, which they could increase to $2.8 million by the trade deadline.

Lindgren’s contract will make him a free agent next summer, giving the Rangers time to decide if they want to keep him long-term.

The decision will likely hinge on how well Lindgren performs this season and how sustainable his physical play style proves to be.

Rangers Solidify Defense and Plan for Cap Flexibility

The Rangers’ roster is mostly set, with Lindgren joining Adam Fox, Zac Jones, K’Andre Miller, Jacob Trouba, and Chad Ruhwedel on defense. This gives the Rangers a strong defense for the new season.

The team’s cap space plan includes possible changes, like starting Adam Edstrom in the AHL to create more space. This would leave them with 13 forwards and seven defensemen, freeing up about $1.47 million.

If managed well, this could give the Rangers around $6.7 million to use by the trade deadline, allowing for potential trades or new players.

Future of Lindgren’s Contract Depends on Performance

While Lindgren’s contract is only for one year, it allows for future discussions. The Rangers can talk about a long-term deal in January, depending on how well Lindgren plays and their salary cap situation.

For now, the focus is on making the most of the current roster for the upcoming season.

Reynaldo López’s injury during Sunday’s game has jeopardized the Braves’ season and playoff hopes. This puts pressure on the team to find new pitchers before the trade deadline.

Reynaldo López’s Forearm Tightness Worries Braves

Braves manager Brian Snitker wanted to enjoy their 9-2 win over the Mets on Sunday. Matt Olson hit home runs in two games in a row, and the Braves solidified their lead in the National League Wild Card standings.

However, the focus was on Reynaldo López, who left after three scoreless innings because of right forearm tightness. Just as things seemed to be looking up, the Braves faced another injury.

“It sucks,” Olson said. “It kind of feels like every week or every other week, we’re getting some bad news. So definitely hoping for the best here.”

López went back to Atlanta for more tests. Even if the MRI shows no serious damage, he might still need to go on the 15-day injured list. The Braves hope he only needs a short rest.

Another Setback in a Tough Season

López didn’t show any pain during his 57 pitches. His last fastball was his fastest, at 97.4 mph. Marcell Ozuna noticed López looked uncomfortable and told the coaches after the third inning.

“You think of when [the injuries are] going to stop,” Braves third baseman Austin Riley said.

“Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and the results come back positive and he doesn’t miss much.”

López has the best ERA in the MLB at 2.06. He became a starter this year after being a reliever. There was some worry about him handling a full season as a starter, especially since he didn’t pitch more than 66 innings in the last two years. This year, he has pitched 104 2/3 innings, with extra rest for many of his starts.

“You can never be too careful when they get tightness,” Snitker said.

“That’s probably why he’s already at the airport or in the air right now. You want to be proactive.”

Braves’ Trade Plans Before Deadline

Besides waiting for news on López, the Braves need to figure out their strategy before the trade deadline. They need an outfielder and might need a pitcher due to López’s uncertain status. Despite many injuries, the Braves are 1 1/2 games ahead for second place in the NL East.

Chris Sale, Max Fried, and López were All-Star Game picks two weeks ago. Fried is now injured, and López might join him. The Braves’ playoff hopes depend on these top pitchers being healthy. Fried is doing well and might return soon.

If López’s injury is serious, the Braves might avoid aggressive trades. But if he only needs a short break, this rest could help him be strong for the postseason.

Meanwhile, the Braves hope Olson continues his hot streak. He has hit home runs in the last two games, improving his performance.

Braves Eye Trade Market Amid López’s Injury & Playoff Push

López has been a star for the Braves this year, with a 7-4 record and over 100 innings pitched for the first time since 2019. After playing for several teams, López signed a three-year, $30 million contract with the Braves this offseason.

Atlanta’s injury issues include key players like Ronald Acuña Jr. and Ozzie Albies being out. Michael Harris II is also out until mid-August. The Braves are looking for trade options, with potential targets like Luis Robert Jr. and Garrett Crochet.

The Braves are currently leading the NL Wild Card race. López’s injury adds pressure to secure new players before the trade deadline. The team’s season has been a mix of wins and injuries, but they hope for good news about López and a strong finish to the season.

Stay updated on López and all things Braves as the season continues.

The New York Knicks want to trade Kevin Looney, a three-time NBA champion, to strengthen their team. This move could provide the Knicks with the experienced center they need.

Knicks Eye Looney in Strategic Trade Move

SNY.TV’s David Vertsberger listed five possible trades that could help the Knicks get a new center after losing Isaiah Hartenstein to the Oklahoma City Thunder in free agency.

One interesting trade idea is that the Knicks are sending forward Precious Achiuwa and future draft picks to the Golden State Warriors for center Kevin Looney.

Since Achiuwa is a free agent, the deal would have to be a sign-and-trade or happen midseason. Even though the trade details need some work, Looney would fit well with the Knicks.

“The Warriors aren’t likely to be sellers in this market, but trading with the Knicks could net them extra ammo for pursuing one of their larger targets,” Vertsberger wrote on July 24, 2024.

“Looney is a cleaner fit at the five for New York than Achiuwa, and Golden State can utilize both him and the picks going into next season.”

Kevin Looney’s Winning History

Kevin Looney has been a key player for the Warriors, helping them win three NBA championships.

The Warriors kept Looney for the last season of a three-year, $22.5 million contract, with an $8 million cap hit in 2024-25. He would bring much-needed veteran experience to the Knicks, having spent his entire nine-year NBA career with the Warriors.

Looney averaged 4.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game in 74 games for Golden State last season, including 36 starts. His rebounding and defense would be helpful for New York’s second unit.

While Looney may not have a high ceiling, the Knicks know what they can expect from him, making this trade a good idea.

Knicks Strategize on Center Depth as Robinson Battles Injuries

New York still has Mitchell Robinson, but he often gets injured. He only played 31 games this year and missed the last six games of the Knicks’ Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Indiana Pacers, who won the series 4-3.

Precious Achiuwa just finished a four-year, $12.5 million rookie deal. SNY.TV’s Ian Begley said the Knicks are still talking with Achiuwa about coming back. Last December, the Knicks got Achiuwa and OG Anunoby in a trade with the Toronto Raptors.

“Mitchell Robinson, he’s on the roster. He’s here now, but you know he has a history of getting hurt,” Begley said on the July 13 episode of “SportsNite.”

“So, you need a backup center who can start 30 games next season, and I know they’ve continued to be in touch with Precious Achiuwa, their own free agent. I think they’ve also had casual trade talks about some high-salaried veteran centers on the trade market.”

Achiuwa averaged 7.6 points and 7.2 rebounds in 24.2 minutes per game in 49 games for the Knicks.

He has also started 18 games since coming to New York. Achiuwa was a top prospect who played for Montverde Academy in Florida and played one season in Memphis.

He was the 20th pick by the Miami Heat in the 2020 NBA Draft.

Knicks Eye Looney in Potential Achiuwa Trade

In this possible trade, Achiuwa could sign a deal with the Knicks and then be traded to the Warriors for Looney.

Maybe some overseas draft rights or late future picks could be included, but Achiuwa for Looney is the main part of the trade.

Looney, 28, has played his whole career with the Warriors after being the 30th pick in the 2015 NBA Draft from UCLA.

He was part of the Warriors’ championship teams in 2017, 2018, and 2022 and also made the NBA Finals in 2016 and 2019, which means Looney has more playoff experience than most NBA players.

Ultimately, the Knicks would get a reliable center and only need to spend about $8 million on his salary, similar to what they paid Hartenstein last year. This deal sounds almost too good to be true.

By getting Looney, the Knicks would solve their problem of needing a dependable center, while the Warriors would gain valuable assets to pursue other targets.

The Olympic Games are the world’s foremost sports competition, bringing together athletes from across the globe to compete in various sports.

Over the years, the Olympics have seen remarkable achievements and memorable moments, including the breaking of numerous records and the participation of professional athletes.

Best Olympians of All Time: Complete List

There have been hundreds of amazing athletes at the Olympics who have made their mark on various sports. Here are some of the most iconic athletes of all time:

1. Michael Phelps

Michael Phelps is an American swimmer and the most successful Olympian ever. He has won 28 medals, with 23 of them being gold.

He first competed in the 2004 Athens Olympics, winning 6 golds and 2 bronzes.

In the 2008 Beijing Olympics, he won 8 golds, breaking the record for the most golds in one Olympics.

He also won medals in the 2012 London and 2016 Rio Olympics, making him the top medal winner in Olympic history.

His achievements include multiple world records in events like the 100m and 200m butterfly and the 200m and 400m individual medley.

2. Usain Bolt

Jamaican Usain Bolt is known for his amazing speed in track and field. He won 8 gold medals in the 100m and 200m sprints at the 2008, 2012, and 2016 Olympics.

Bolt still holds the world record for the fastest times in both the 100m (9.58 seconds) and 200m (19.19 seconds), making him the fastest runner ever.

3. Larisa Latynina

Larisa Latynina, a gymnast from the Soviet Union, held the record for the most Olympic medals (18) for many years until Michael Phelps broke it.

She competed in the 1956, 1960, and 1964 Olympics, winning 9 golds, 5 silvers, and 4 bronzes. Her success helped make the Soviet Union a top country in gymnastics.

4. Carl Lewis

Carl Lewis is an American track and field athlete who competed in four Olympics (1984, 1988, 1992, and 1996).

He won 9 gold medals and one silver in events like the long jump and the 100m sprint.

He was a dominant figure in his sport, and his rivalry with Ben Johnson was a major story in the 1988 Seoul Olympics.

5. Paavo Nurmi

Paavo Nurmi, known as the “Flying Finn,” was a great long-distance runner. He competed in the 1920, 1924, and 1928 Olympics, winning nine gold medals and three silvers.

One of his most impressive feats was winning both the 1500m and 5000m races within an hour at the 1924 Paris Olympics.

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6. Mark Spitz

Mark Spitz is an American swimmer who won seven gold medals at the 1972 Munich Olympics, each in world-record time.

He also competed in the 1968 Olympics, winning a total of nine golds, one silver, and one bronze throughout his career.

His record for the most golds in one Olympics stood until Michael Phelps broke it in 2008.

7. Jesse Owens

Jesse Owens, an American track and field athlete, won four gold medals at the 1936 Berlin Olympics in the 100m, 200m, long jump, and 4x100m relay.

His victories in Nazi Germany challenged Hitler’s ideas about race and made Owens a symbol of courage and equality​.

8. Nadia Comaneci

Nadia Comaneci, a Romanian gymnast, became famous at the 1976 Montreal Olympics by scoring the first perfect 10 in gymnastics.

She won three gold medals in 1976 and two more in the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Her performances set new standards for the sport.

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9. Jackie Joyner-Kersee

Jackie Joyner-Kersee is considered one of the greatest female athletes in Olympic history.

She competed in four Olympics (1984, 1988, 1992, and 1996), winning three golds, one silver, and two bronzes in the heptathlon and long jump.

Despite having severe asthma, she achieved great success and remains an inspiration.

10. Teofilo Stevenson

Teofilo Stevenson, a Cuban boxer, won three consecutive gold medals in the heavyweight division at the 1972, 1976, and 1980 Olympics.

He was known for his loyalty to Cuba and turned down offers to become a professional boxer, valuing the love of his countrymen over money.

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Our Top Olympic Athletes & Their Impact

The achievements of these ten Olympians have set benchmarks in their respective sports and inspired countless others to pursue excellence. These athletes have not only won medals but have also embodied the Olympic spirit of perseverance, sportsmanship, and unity.

Their stories remind us that greatness is achieved through dedication, hard work, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.

As we celebrate their legacies, we are inspired to strive for our best, both in sports and in life.

The impact of these Olympians goes beyond their medal counts; they have become symbols of human potential and the enduring power of the Olympic Games.