Ilia Topuria Statement Breakdown; Manel Kape Might Skip the Line After UFC on ESPN 73 | Cageside

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