President Trump is pressuring California officials to prevent a transgender student from competing in the girls’ state track and field finals there, threatening to withhold funding if they don’t comply. 

Without naming the student, Mr. Trump took to Truth Social on Tuesday, advising that federal funding “will be held back, maybe permanently,” if state and local authorities don’t do as he says. The president signed an executive order in February banning transgender girls and women from competing on sports teams that match their gender identity, and stating that it’s the policy of the U.S. to “rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities.” 

Mr. Trump said he’ll be speaking with California Gov. Gavin Newsom about the situation soon, although it’s unclear if they have a call scheduled.

“California, under the leadership of Radical Left Democrat Gavin Newscum, continues to ILLEGALLY allow ‘MEN TO PLAY IN WOMEN’S SPORTS,'” the president wrote on social media, adding that California is allowing a trans student to compete. 

“THIS IS NOT FAIR, AND TOTALLY DEMEANING TO WOMEN AND GIRLS,” Mr. Trump continued. “Please be hereby advised that large scale Federal Funding will be held back, maybe permanently, if the Executive Order on this subject matter is not adhered to. The Governor, himself, said it is ‘UNFAIR.’ I will speak to him today to find out which way he wants to go??? In the meantime I am ordering local authorities, if necessary, to not allow the transitioned person to compete in the State Finals. This is a totally ridiculous situation!!!”

The White House did not immediately respond with further details about the student or the president’s intention to speak with Newsom. 

On Tuesday, the California Interscholastic Federation, which oversees student sports, announced a “decision to pilot an entry process” for the upcoming 2025 CIF State Track and Field Championships.

“Under this pilot entry process, any biological female student-athlete who would have earned the next qualifying mark for one of their section’s automatic qualifying entires in the CIF state at-large mark in the finals at their section meet, was extended the opportunity to participate in the 2025 CIF State Track and Field Championships.” 

Newsom’s office called the pilot proposal a reasonable approach. 

“CIF’s proposed pilot is a reasonable, respectful way to navigate a complex issue without compromising competitive fairness — a model worth pursuing,” said Izzy Gardon, director of communications for Newsom. “The governor is encouraged by this thoughtful approach.”

AB Hernandez, a high school junior track and field athlete at Jurupa Valley High School, has received significant national attention after winning the long jump and triple jump at the CIF Southern Section Division III finals earlier this month, according to the posted results. Hernandez’s participation has been met with backlash from conservative groups who say the high school junior shouldn’t be competing on the girls’ team. 

“As previously stated, JUSD is required to follow both California law and CIF policy regarding school athletics,” Jurupa Unified School District said in a statement provided to CBS News. “Both state law and CIF policy currently require that students be permitted to participate in athletic teams and competitions consistent with their gender identity, irrespective of the gender listed on the pupil’s records. We remain committed to following the law as written and ensuring that all students are granted the rights afforded to them in a safe and welcoming environment.”

Keeping “men out of women’s sports” was a frequent refrain for Mr. Trump on the campaign trail, something he’s trying to follow through on in office. 

Last month, the Justice Department filed a civil lawsuit against Maine’s Department of Education for “discriminating against women by failing to protect women in women’s sports” in what Attorney General Pam Bondi alleged is a violation of Title IX. Bondi said when the lawsuit was filed that more suits against other states could come. 

June 2025 is a powerhouse month for ESPN+, bringing an action-packed lineup of live sports, exclusive original content, and marquee championship events to subscribers. Whether you’re into football playoffs, combat sports, lacrosse, or iconic tennis tournaments, there’s something for every type of sports fan.

And for bundled Disney+ viewers, much of this content is accessible directly via the ESPN hub—blending convenience with premium coverage.

Here’s your complete guide to what’s streaming on ESPN+ in June 2025:

Football

United Football League (UFL) Playoffs

The UFL Playoffs heat up in June as teams fight for the 2025 Championship:

• June 8 – Conference Championships
  • Michigan Panthers vs. Birmingham Stallions – 3 PM ET (ABC, ESPN+)
  • DC Defenders vs. St. Louis Battlehawks – 6 PM ET (FOX, ESPN+)
• June 14 – UFL Championship Game
  • Live from St. Louis, 8 PM ET (ABC, ESPN+)

Basketball

NBA Finals

• June 5–22
  • The NBA Finals stream across ESPN platforms, with ESPN+ offering expanded highlights, analysis, and companion coverage for subscribers.

WNBA Regular Season

• June 3 – Dallas vs. Seattle
• June 22 – Indiana vs. New York
  • WNBA games continue on ESPN+ as the season builds toward All-Star selections.

Hockey

2025 NHL Draft

• June 27 – Round 1
• June 28 – Rounds 2–7
  • Live draft coverage includes in-depth prospect analysis and interviews, with ESPN+ carrying all rounds.

Soccer

The Soccer Tournament (TST)

• June 4–9
  • ESPN+ streams 27 live matches from WakeMed Soccer Park in Cary, North Carolina, featuring both men’s and women’s teams in a 7v7 winner-takes-all format.

Lacrosse

Premier Lacrosse League (PLL)

• June 6 – Denver Outlaws vs. Carolina Chaos – 6 PM ET
• June 7 – Utah Archers vs. Boston Cannons – 1 PM ET
• June 7 – California Redwoods vs. Carolina Chaos – 7 PM ET
• Weekly games continue through June 28 on ESPN+ and ABC.

Combat Sports

UFC

• June 7 – UFC 316: Dvalishvili vs. O’Malley 2
  • Main Card: 10 PM ET (ESPN+ PPV) | Prelims: 8 PM ET (ESPN) | Early Prelims: 6 PM ET
• June 14 – UFC Fight Night: Usman vs. Buckley – 7 PM ET
• June 21 – UFC Fight Night: Hill vs. Rountree Jr. – 12 PM ET
• June 28 – UFC 317: Topuria vs. Oliveira
  • Main Card: 10 PM ET (ESPN+ PPV) | Prelims: 8 PM ET | Early Prelims: 6 PM ET

PFL (Professional Fighters League)

• June 12 & 20 – World Tournament Semifinals
  • Featuring featherweight and welterweight contenders battling for a spot in the 2025 Finals.

Top Rank Boxing

• June 7 – Keyshawn Davis (C) vs. Edwin De Los Santos
  • Lightweight clash with major title implications, streaming live on ESPN+.

The Ultimate Fighter Season 32

• New episodes every Tuesday in June
  • Celebrating 20 years of TUF, this season features Hall of Famers Daniel Cormier and Chael Sonnen as rival coaches.

Auto Racing

Formula 1

• June 15 – Canadian Grand Prix
  • In addition to traditional race coverage, ESPN+ offers live telemetry feeds, on-board cameras, and F1 Academy, Formula 2, Formula 3, and Porsche Supercup events.

Baseball

Savannah Bananas – Banana Ball

• June 7 – Charlotte, NC – 7 PM ET (ESPN2 & ESPN+)
• June 28 – Washington, D.C. – 7 PM ET (ESPN2 & ESPN+)
  • This viral baseball phenomenon brings entertainment and athleticism in equal measure.

Tennis

Wimbledon 2025 (Preview)

• June 30–July 13
  • ESPN+ will stream full daily coverage from every court in English and Spanish, along with replays, highlight reels, and historic matches.

College Sports

NCAA Championships

• Through June 6 – Women’s College World Series
• June 11–14 – Outdoor Track & Field Championships
• June 13–23 – Men’s College World Series
  • Over 140 college events will stream live on ESPN+ this month.

Original Programming

Rabil’s Places – Premiering June 4 (New Episodes Weekly)

Produced by Peyton Manning’s Omaha Productions, this five-episode series follows lacrosse legend Paul Rabil as he explores the game’s deep roots and cultural evolution. Guests include Bill Belichick, Chris Hogan, Gary Gait, Charlotte North, Mick Foley, and more.

• Episode 1: Turf Wars (June 4)
• Episode 2: Slick Sticks (June 11)
• Episode 3: Crab Cakes and Lacrosse (June 18)
• Episode 4: Crease and Desist (June 25)

Whether you’re a hardcore MMA fan, a basketball junkie, or a casual viewer looking for something new, ESPN+ in June 2025 offers one of its most diverse and jam-packed schedules yet. Stay tuned for updates and enjoy the ride.

Key Takeaways

• ESPN+ will offer extensive live sports events, studio shows, and exclusive films in June 2025 with select content available through Disney+.
• A new Marvel original series premieres alongside the return of an Emmy award-winning program on the platform.
• Bundled subscribers gain access to a specially curated collection of sports content through both ESPN+ and Disney+ interfaces.

Complete List of New Releases on ESPN+ in June 2025

ESPN+ subscribers can look forward to an action-packed June with major sporting events, exclusive documentaries, and special programming across multiple sports. The streaming service continues to expand its offerings with both live content and on-demand viewing options.

Major Live Games and Scheduled Events

ESPN+ will broadcast several live events throughout June 2025, including key matchups across multiple sports. The month kicks off with the conclusion of the NHL Stanley Cup Finals, with games scheduled for June 3, 6, and if necessary, June 9 and 12.

Soccer fans can enjoy the International Champions Cup starting June 15, featuring premier clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester United, and Bayern Munich competing in pre-season matches across the United States.

The 2025 College World Series will stream from June 14-25, with all games available exclusively on ESPN+.

Tennis coverage includes weekly ATP and WTA tour events, with the prestigious Queen’s Club Championships (June 16-22) serving as a key Wimbledon warm-up tournament.

UFC Fight Night events are scheduled for June 7 (Las Vegas) and June 21 (Austin), with exclusive preliminary coverage and post-fight analysis.

Exclusive Originals and Documentaries

“The Captain: Beyond the Field” debuts June 5, a four-part follow-up to the acclaimed Derek Jeter documentary, exploring his business ventures and ownership aspirations.

The highly anticipated original series “Playmakers” premieres June 12, profiling innovative coaches who transformed their respective sports through tactical innovations.

“Summer of Golf: 2025” launches June 18, providing behind-the-scenes access to players preparing for the major tournaments ahead.

Two new “30 for 30” documentaries arrive: “Breaking Barriers: The Story of Althea Gibson” (June 10) and “The Miracle Marathon” (June 24), examining the legendary 1984 Olympic women’s marathon.

“In the Arena: The WNBA Revolution” debuts June 15, chronicling the league’s explosive growth and cultural impact through its 30-year history.

Seasonal Highlights and Recaps

ESPN+ will feature comprehensive coverage of the 2025 NBA Draft on June 26-27, including exclusive interviews, analysis, and behind-the-scenes content from the two-day event.

MLB coverage expands with “Baseball Tonight: Midseason Special” on June 30, providing in-depth analysis of the season’s first half and predictions for the pennant races.

Weekly NFL offseason programs continue with “NFL Live: Training Camp Preview” episodes, focusing on team-by-team breakdowns ahead of the 2025 season.

“The Return: Formula 1 Mid-Season Review” premieres June 22, examining the championship battle at the halfway point of the racing calendar.

“EURO 2025: Group Stage Highlights” will compile the best moments from the European Championship’s opening rounds, available June 28.

Upcoming Series and Specials

“Peyton’s Places” returns for its sixth season on June 8, with NFL legend Peyton Manning exploring football history through conversations with the game’s greatest figures.

The popular ESPN series “Detail” adds new episodes focusing on NBA Finals analysis from Kobe Bryant’s archives and fresh baseball breakdowns from Alex Rodriguez.

“Quest for Gold: Paris Edition” debuts June 29, following American athletes in their final preparations for the 2025 Summer Olympics.

“The Point with Serena Williams” premieres June 20, featuring the tennis legend interviewing prominent athletes about competition, mental preparation, and life after sports.

“Inside the Octagon: Championship Roadmap” releases June 13, providing an in-depth preview of upcoming UFC title fights scheduled for the second half of 2025.

Featured Sports and Leagues Streaming in June 2025

ESPN+ delivers an extensive lineup of live sports this June, with major league baseball games, international soccer tournaments, and exclusive SportsCenter analysis. Subscribers can enjoy a diverse range of competitions across multiple sports categories.

MLB and Baseball Coverage

Baseball fans will have plenty to watch on ESPN+ this June with a robust schedule of MLB games and college baseball action. The platform will stream select MLB regular season matchups each week, giving subscribers access to teams battling for playoff positioning as the season heats up.

College baseball continues with NCAA tournament coverage, including regional finals and Super Regional games leading up to the College World Series. ESPN+ will provide exclusive access to many of these matchups not available on traditional ESPN channels.

The Women’s College World Series will be a major highlight, with games streaming through early June. This tournament showcases the best teams in women’s collegiate softball competing for the national championship.

Baseball enthusiasts can also find classic MLB games, analysis shows, and baseball documentaries in the on-demand library. ESPN+ continues to strengthen its baseball offerings with insider content and technical breakdowns from former players and coaches.

Soccer, Basketball, and Additional Sports

Soccer takes center stage in June with international competitions and club tournaments streaming exclusively on ESPN+. The platform will feature matches from prestigious leagues like Bundesliga, LaLiga, and FA Cup, providing soccer fans with high-quality action from around the globe.

Basketball coverage includes WNBA regular season games as the season gains momentum. ESPN+ will stream select matchups featuring star players and championship contenders. Subscribers can also access basketball analysis shows and documentaries.

Additional sports featured in June include:

• UFC fight nights and exclusive prelims
• PGA Tour golf coverage
• Tennis tournaments
• College lacrosse championships
• Formula 1 racing analysis

With over 140 college sporting events streaming live in June, ESPN+ continues to be a premier destination for college sports fans. The diverse lineup ensures something for every sports enthusiast.

Spotlight on SportsCenter Segments

ESPN+ subscribers gain access to exclusive SportsCenter segments in June, offering in-depth analysis not available on the regular broadcast. These segments feature renowned ESPN analysts breaking down key storylines across all major sports.

Daily SportsCenter briefings will highlight the previous day’s action and preview upcoming events with expert commentary. The platform will also offer specialized segments focusing on MLB standings, soccer tournaments, and emerging stories across the sports landscape.

SportsCenter’s digital-exclusive content includes extended interviews with athletes and coaches competing in June events. These conversations provide unique insights into strategies and preparation methods.

The popular “SVP’s One Big Thing” and other branded segments will be available on-demand shortly after their initial broadcast. ESPN+ users can access these segments anytime, making it easy to stay informed on breaking sports news and analysis throughout June.

How to Access June 2025 Content on ESPN+

ESPN+ offers multiple ways to access its extensive June 2025 content lineup through various platforms, subscription options, and bundle packages designed to provide flexibility for sports fans.

Streaming Service Platforms and Devices

ESPN+ content is accessible through the enhanced ESPN App on numerous devices, making it convenient for subscribers to watch their favorite sports programming. Viewers can stream June 2025 content in HD on:

• Living room devices (Roku, Apple TV, Chromecast)
• Mobile phones and tablets (iOS and Android)
• Computers and laptops via web browsers
• Smart TVs (Samsung, LG, Sony, etc.)
• Gaming consoles (PlayStation, Xbox)

The ESPN App interface features a dedicated ESPN+ section where all June programming is organized by category, making it easy to find live events, original shows, and exclusive content. Users can create personalized watchlists for upcoming June events and receive notifications when their selected content becomes available.

Integration with Hulu and Direct-to-Consumer Access

ESPN+ continues to offer integration options with other Disney-owned platforms in June 2025. Bundled subscribers can access ESPN+ content directly through Disney+, creating a streamlined viewing experience across platforms.

The integration provides several benefits:

• Single sign-on across Disney+, Hulu, and ESPN+
• Consolidated billing for bundle subscribers
• Unified content recommendations based on viewing habits

For those preferring direct access, ESPN has launched new direct-to-consumer plans designed to give fans more choice and flexibility. These plans allow standalone access to all ESPN content through the enhanced ESPN App without requiring additional subscriptions.

ESPN’s strategy focuses on providing multiple entry points to its content while maintaining consistent user experiences across platforms.

Subscription Details and Benefits

The newly launched ESPN+ subscription plans offer comprehensive access to June 2025 programming. The primary plan costs $29.99 per month and includes:

Core Benefits:

• Full access to all live sports events in June 2025
• Complete library of ESPN+ Originals and studio shows
• Exclusive content not available on cable ESPN channels
• Ad-free viewing experience (premium tier)
• 4K streaming where available

ESPN+ subscribers also gain access to NFL PrimeTime and other exclusive shows like “Man in the Arena: Tom Brady” without additional fees. The service offers flexible payment options including monthly subscriptions or annual plans with savings.

For budget-conscious viewers, ESPN+ can be bundled with Disney+ and Hulu at reduced rates compared to individual subscriptions. New subscribers can often find promotional trial periods to test the service before committing.

Trends and Insights for ESPN+ in 2025

ESPN+ is undergoing significant transformation in 2025 as sports streaming continues to evolve and reshape how fans consume content. The platform is responding to changing viewer habits with new features and expanded offerings.

Cord-Cutting and Sports Streaming Growth

The cord-cutting trend has accelerated dramatically in 2025, with ESPN+ benefiting significantly from the shift away from traditional cable. Sports content has remained one of the last strongholds of cable TV, but that barrier is now crumbling.

ESPN’s new standalone streaming app launching in May 2025 represents a major acknowledgment of this trend. For $29.99 monthly, viewers can access ESPN’s live sports without a cable subscription.

Sports fans increasingly expect on-demand access across multiple devices. The flexibility of watching games on smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs has become a necessity rather than a luxury.

Industry data shows sports streaming subscriptions have grown 34% year-over-year, outpacing all other streaming content categories. This surge in sports streaming coincides with declining cable subscriptions, which dropped below 50% of American households for the first time in early 2025.

Subscriber Statistics and Viewer Demographics

ESPN+ has seen remarkable subscriber growth, reaching 28.3 million subscribers by May 2025—a 22% increase from the previous year. The platform’s expansion comes as sports viewing demographics continue to evolve.

The core demographic for ESPN+ has broadened significantly. While the 18-34 male demographic remains strong, female viewership has increased by 41% since 2024. Viewers over 45 now constitute 33% of the subscriber base, showing the platform’s widening appeal.

Geographical distribution reveals interesting patterns:

• Urban areas: 58% of subscribers
• Suburban regions: 31% of subscribers
• Rural communities: 11% of subscribers

The ESPN Insider feature continues to draw subscribers interested in fantasy sports and analysis from experts like Mel Kiper and Todd McShay. Engagement data shows subscribers spend an average of 7.3 hours weekly on the platform, with peak usage during major sporting events.

Innovations and Future Developments

ESPN+ is implementing several technological innovations to enhance the viewing experience. Personalization algorithms have been refined to provide customized content recommendations based on viewing history and preferences.

The platform has expanded its interactive features, including multi-angle camera views for select events and enhanced statistics overlays. These innovations help differentiate ESPN+ from traditional broadcasts and competing streaming services.

ESPN’s new bundling strategy offers subscribers more flexibility. Users can bundle ESPN with Disney+ and Hulu for $35.99 monthly, creating a comprehensive entertainment package under the Disney umbrella.

4K streaming capabilities have been expanded to cover more live events, with plans to implement 8K streaming for select premium content by year-end. The platform is also testing augmented reality features that allow viewers to project game statistics into their living rooms.

Mobile viewing enhancements include improved battery optimization and offline viewing options for replays and documentaries, addressing key pain points identified in user feedback.

Frequently Asked Questions

ESPN+ continues to expand its content lineup for June 2025 with exciting sports events, original series, documentaries, and special programming. Subscribers can look forward to extensive coverage across multiple sports and entertainment categories.

What new sports events will be available on ESPN+ in June 2025?

ESPN+ will stream several major sporting events in June 2025, including exclusive UFC Fight Nights and the continuation of the MLB regular season. Tennis fans can enjoy coverage of pre-Wimbledon tournaments and qualifying matches.

The platform will also feature expanded WNBA coverage during the middle of their season with several exclusive games not available on traditional ESPN channels.

International soccer matches will be prominent with Copa America group stage games and select international friendlies being available to bundled subscribers on Disney+.

Which original series are set to release on ESPN+ next month?

“Detail” returns with new episodes featuring in-depth analysis from sports legends examining gameplay from the NBA Finals and other major competitions.

Season 3 of “Peyton’s Places” continues with new episodes exploring football history and culture with the legendary quarterback as host.

“Man in the Arena: Tom Brady” will release a special supplementary episode covering Brady’s broadcasting career and post-retirement ventures.

Are there any exclusive documentaries premiering on ESPN+ in June 2025?

A new “30 for 30” documentary exploring the 1995 Seattle Mariners season will debut exclusively on ESPN+ in early June.

“The Captain: Beyond the Field,” a follow-up to the Derek Jeter documentary series, examines his business ventures and ownership aspirations.

ESPN Films will also release “Racing Dreams,” a documentary focusing on young NASCAR hopefuls and their journey through development programs.

Can viewers expect any special live programming on ESPN+ for June 2025?

ESPN+ will feature special live coverage of the College World Series with additional camera angles and interactive features exclusive to the platform.

The PGA Tour will have enhanced coverage of select tournaments with featured groups and additional analysis not available on traditional broadcasts.

Special draft preview shows for both the NBA and NHL will provide in-depth analysis of prospects ahead of their respective drafts in the ESPN streaming service.

What are the latest ESPN+ exclusive shows to be added in June 2025?

“The Point” debuts as a new hockey analysis show featuring former NHL players breaking down playoff performances and upcoming draft prospects.

“Inside the Octagon” premieres as an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at UFC fighters preparing for upcoming bouts throughout the summer.

“Quarterback Camp” returns with a new format focusing on rookie QBs adjusting to the NFL following their first minicamps.

How can I find a complete list of ESPN+ releases for June 2025?

Subscribers can access the complete June 2025 programming schedule directly through the ESPN+ app under the “Coming Soon” section.

The official ESPN+ website provides a regularly updated calendar of upcoming content that can be filtered by sport, type, and date for easy reference.

ESPN+ subscribers can also sign up for personalized notifications about upcoming content in their favorite sports categories through the ESPN+ service settings.

The candidate presentations for the ITTF Executive Board election concluded earlier today in Doha, with all candidates having the opportunity to address the table tennis community ahead of tomorrow’s crucial vote.

You may now watch the presentations from each candidate online. As we wanted to get this important content available as soon as possible, please note that the video quality is not in high resolution and we apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

The election for the ITTF Executive Board will take place during the ITTF Annual General Meeting on 27 May 2025, marking a significant moment in the governance of our sport.

All candidates participating in tomorrow’s election have been thoroughly reviewed and approved by the Nominations Committee, in strict accordance with the ITTF Electoral and Appointment Regulations, during their comprehensive meeting held on 6 March 2025.

The presentation order was determined by an official draw conducted on 20 May 2025 during a meeting of the Nominations Committee, ensuring a fair and transparent process for all candidates.

Cory Sandhagen (18-5 MMA, 11-4 UFC) got the job done three weeks ago in devastating fashion. During the May 3 UFC Des Moines card inside Wells Fargo Arena, Sandhagen took top-billing on the evening as he was booked to fight former UFC Flyweight Champion Deiveson Figuereido (24-5-1 MMA, 13-5-1 UFC) in the headlining contest.

During the second round of an advertised five in the Iowa Barnstormers’ home arena, Sandhagen unleashed a burst of ground and pound shots. Although Figuereido attempted to secure a submission, the former was quick to reverse the script.

With under a minute remaining on the second-round clock, Cory Sandhagen began to land another surge of ground and pound before the referee intervened after Figueiredo tapped out of the fight due to sustaining a knee injury. Sandhagen, who came into the first week of May with the No. 4 ranking in the bantamweight division, scored a resume-building victory.

Cory Sandhagen Makes Intentions to Fight for Title Known

In his interview on the UFC Des Moines Post-Fight Show on ESPN+ later that evening, Cory Sandhagen made it clear that he’s hungry for a shot at the UFC Bantamweight Championship.

“I don’t care who it’s against,” Cory Sandhagen began. “I just want to fight for the belt, man. I want my fair crack at the belt. [Petr] Yan is the only other guy really in the conversation and he went all five rounds with [Figuereido]”.

Regardless of adversary in his next fight, Sandhagen sent a message to both UFC CEO Dana White and Chief Business Officer Hunter Campbell.

“I think I stamped my shot, man,” he said that night. “I’m going to give Dana and Hunter a call right after this.”

Cory Sandhagen Doubles Down on Title Fight Aspirations

Cory Sandhagen only needs to wait another two weeks to find out who he could potentially face in his bid for the UFC Bantamweight Championship. On June 7, UFC 316 will take place inside Prudential Center in Newark, NJ.

That night’s headliner in The Garden State will see No. 1 contender Sean O’Malley (18-2, 1 NC MMA, 10-2, 1 NC UFC) attempt to wrest the title away from current champion Merab Dvalishvili (19-4 MMA, 12-2 UFC) in a rematch of their fight from Noche UFC, also known as UFC 306, from inside the Vegas Sphere.  In that first contest, O’Malley dropped the title by way of unanimous decision after 25 minutes of action.

During an appearance on the latest episode of The Overdogs Podcast, Cory Sandhagen was interviewed by host Mike Perry and took time out to say that he has his target set on Sean O’Malley.

“I think that when me and O’Malley fight, I’ll get to show that I’m a lot better than him,” he said on the podcast. “Unless I get that opportunity, I don’t really feel like arguing with the ether of the Internet about who’s better at what.”

Sandhagen Rips Into Sean O’Malley’s Resume

In the same interview with Mike Perry, Cory Sandhagen compared his resume with that of “Suga” Sean O’Malley.

“I mean, when you think about O’Malley, man, he’s had a good run at stuff,” Cory Sandhagen continued, “but I think if you fight tough guys for long enough, there [are] going to be nights where you just don’t win, you know what I mean? All of these guys are really good, and I fought the best guys in the division for a really long time.”

When a fighter of Cory Sandhagen’s caliber takes on and defeats a former champion in the UFC, like he did against Deiveson Figuereido earlier this month, and the fighter scores the victory in devastating fashion, the fighter deserves the chance to call his shot. Sandhagen did so in the immediate aftermath of his victory and has repeated his request again just this weekend.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

While the one nicknamed “Sandman” wants a shot at gold at 135 lbs, he actually owns fewer victories by way of stoppage than Sean O’Malley. Statistically speaking, Cory Sandhagen has 18 career wins since turning pro in MMA.

Of those 18 wins, he’s scored 11 of them inside the distance, with eight coming by way of knockout and three via submission. On the other hand, although Sean O’Malley has the identical number of wins as a professional in the sport, he has 13 total finishes, with 11 of them being scored by knockout.

Final Thoughts

Regardless of who Cory Sandhagen fights up next, a potential contest between him and Sean O’Malley would no doubt be among one of 2025’s most tantalizing bouts as this year moves toward its second half. When the UFC 316 main event begins on June 7, there will be one certainty:

Cory Sandhagen will be watching the five rounds (or less) of action like a hawk.

Drew McIntyre came up short at WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event, and it may be a while before fans see him back on television.

According to a report from Pwinsider, McIntyre is expected to be off WWE programming for the foreseeable future following his Steel Cage match loss to Damian Priest. The bout ended in brutal fashion, with Priest delivering a Con-Chair-To before casually walking out of the cage, leaving McIntyre unconscious in the ring.

Sources say McIntyre has been “working hurt for some time,” and Saturday’s match marked the end of his current run with WWE. Backstage reports suggest that he’ll be taking an extended break to recover, with no immediate plans for his return.

McIntyre also took a significant beating at WWE Backlash: St. Louis, prompting Triple H to issue a post-show update on his condition.

Additionally, you can check out a list of the producers for WWE Saturday Night’s Main Event below:

* CM Punk & Sami Zayn vs. Seth Rollins & Bron Breakker: Adam Pearce & Bobby Roode
* Zelina Vega vs. Chelsea Green: Jason Jordan & Molly Holly
* R-Truth vs. John Cena: Kenn Doane & Jamie Noble
* Damian Priest vs. Drew McIntyre: Nick Aldis & Chris Park
* Jey Uso vs. Logan Paul: Shane Helms