Spinning Back Clique: The agony and ecstasy of UFC on ESPN+ 30

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, reporter Farah Hannoun, and special guest “Big” John McCarthy.

SHOW TOPICS

UFC on ESPN+ 30 truly was a case of agony and ecstasy as Deiveson Figueiredo left no doubt in his rematch with Joseph Benavidez, scoring a first-round submission win to claim the vacant flyweight title. Just how impressive was Figueiredo’s performance, and what’s next for him? On the flip, how badly do you feel for Benavidez, and where does he go from here after losing his fourth UFC title fight?
We knew it was coming, but now it’s official: Israel Adesanya will defend his middleweight title against Paulo Costa on Sept. 19 at UFC 253. Simple question: What aspect of this highly anticipated showdown intrigues you the most?
There really isn’t any debate about Aljamain Sterling’s standing in the UFC bantamweight division: He should be next in line for champion Petr Yan. And yet, UFC president Dana White will not commit to Sterling as the No. 1 contender. What’s the meaning behind this?
UFC on ESPN 14 features a big middleweight main event between former champ Robert Whittaker and Darren Till, with both men looking to claim their next shot at the title. Who needs this win more?
Bellator is back this weekend for the first time in five months with Bellator 242. Now that the promotion is ready to get back into full swing, which fight do you want to see booked ASAP?

For answers to all of those questions, watch Episode 38 of “Spinning Back Clique” above.