Spinning Back Clique: Is Kamaru Usman or Jorge Masvidal taking the bigger risk at UFC 251?

Welcome to “Spinning Back Clique,” MMA Junkie’s weekly show that takes a spin through the biggest topics in mixed martial arts. This week, Simon Head hosts and is joined by MMA Junkie Radio’s “Gorgeous” George and “Goze,” as well as senior reporter Mike Bohn.

SHOW TOPICS

With Gilbert Burns testing positive for COVID-19, the UFC turned to Jorge Masvidal, who answered the call and is now set to challenge welterweight champion Kamaru Usman on just six days’ notice at UFC 251. It’s the fight everyone wanted from the start, but considering Masvidal’s contract holdout was the reason it didn’t get booked in the first place, how surprised are you that it’s happening?
Between Usman and Masvidal, you’ve got a champion putting his title on the line against a dangerous opponent on short notice, and you’ve got a fighter who’s been pushing for more money now cashing in his chips under less-than-ideal circumstances. So the question is: Which man is taking the bigger risk?
UFC 251 features the return of Paige VanZant, who meets Amanda Ribas in the final fight of her contract. The 26-year-old VanZant remains a popular fixture in MMA, and she intends on testing the open market. If you were her manager, how would you advise her after this fightt?
With three title fights at UFC 251, we close out this week’s show with a simple question: How many times will Bruce Buffer announce “and new” on he night?

For answers to all of those questions, watch Episode 36 of “Spinning Back Clique” above.