Podcast Summary: The Herd with Colin Cowherd Episode: THE W.A.D.E. Concept - WEEK IN REVIEW - Jon Jones Vs Dana White CHAOS & Kamaru Usman is BACK!!

Release Date: June 15, 2025
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts and The Volume
Description: The Herd with Colin Cowherd offers a thought-provoking, opinionated, and topic-driven exploration of the top sports stories of the day. This episode delves into the tumultuous saga between Jon Jones and Dana White, the highly anticipated Canelo vs. Crawford boxing match, debates surrounding modern boxing regulations, and Kamaru Usman's comeback in the UFC.

1. Jon Jones vs. Dana White Saga

Timestamp: [02:01] – [15:10]

The episode kicks off with Wade discussing the ongoing controversy surrounding Jon Jones and Dana White. As of June 10, 2025, there remains significant uncertainty regarding Jon Jones' future in the UFC's heavyweight division. Wade expresses frustration over the lack of clarity and transparency:

"Doesn't make sense to me. It doesn't make sense to anybody outside of a couple things that maybe you could say." ([02:15])

Dana White's recent press conference marks a pivotal moment where he addresses the situation for the first time. According to Wade, Dana White appears perplexed by Jon Jones' contradictory statements about vacating the belt:

"Dana White finally was in front of the media... Jon is completely and utterly ducking Tom Aspitall, and the UFC is letting him get away with it because they're trying to, I guess, make a second attempt at making this fight." ([07:00])

Wade criticizes both Jon Jones and Dana White for their handling of the situation, suggesting that the UFC is prioritizing business interests over resolving the division's chaos. The frustration stems from Jon Jones initially agreeing to fight Tom Aspinall but subsequently backing out, leaving fans and the heavyweight division in limbo.

"You've gotten to the point where he is not willing to cooperate, and instead of taking your belt back from him, you'd rather just do this, leave everybody in suspense." ([06:37])

Dana White's inability to provide concrete answers exacerbates the situation, leading Wade to question the UFC's long-term strategy and its impact on Jones' legacy.

2. Dana White's Press Conference with Ariel Helwani

Timestamp: [06:21] – [15:10]

During Dana White's press conference, moderated by Ariel Helwani, Jon Jones' intentions come under scrutiny. Jon Jones has publicly stated his readiness to vacate the belt:

"He said he doesn't care if you strip him. He would vacate it." ([06:35])

Ariel Helwani probes deeper into whether Jon Jones is genuinely willing to relinquish the title or if he's attempting to evade the fight with Tom Aspinall. Dana White remains non-committal, expressing uncertainty and the need to resolve the situation:

"We'll figure it out." ([07:00])

Wade interprets Dana's responses as a sign of growing frustration and diminishing patience with Jon Jones' inconsistent actions. He anticipates that this ongoing saga could tarnish both Jones' legacy and the UFC's reputation within the heavyweight division.

3. Canelo vs. Crawford Fight Announcement

Timestamp: [15:10] – [26:08]

Shifting focus to boxing, the podcast highlights the official announcement of the monumental fight between Canelo Alvarez and Terence Crawford, scheduled for September 13th and streamed live on Netflix. Wade emphasizes the significance of this bout, dubbing it "the fight of the century."

"Canelo Crawford, 13th of September in Las Vegas... it's officially happening on September 13th live on Netflix." ([17:59])

Turkey Alishik, representing TKO Boxing, delivers heartfelt thanks during the announcement, underscoring the fight's historic nature. Wade discusses the potential impact of broadcasting such a high-profile match on a streaming platform like Netflix:

"American boxing, especially with Keyshawn Davis last weekend... needs to grow, and this could be a way to potentially do that." ([21:48])

The move to Netflix is lauded as a strategy to make boxing more accessible, combating the high costs traditionally associated with pay-per-view events. Wade anticipates substantial viewership, potentially reaching 20 to 30 million viewers, thereby rejuvenating American interest in boxing.

"This is a massive deal... after that it's free. This is a massive deal." ([20:16])

4. The 'No Running' Debate in Modern Boxing

Timestamp: [26:08] – [74:28]

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the debate over the introduction of a "no running" rule in boxing, spearheaded by influencer Showbiz and supported by promoter Turki Alishik.

a. Showbiz's Petition and Rationale

Showbiz, a prominent YouTuber, has advocated for the "no running" rule to curb fighters who prioritize excessive movement over engaging in decisive bouts. He argues that this trend undermines the sport's integrity and diminishes spectator interest:

"The tendency of some fighters to prioritize excessive movement or running over engagement... I am advocating for the introduction of the no running rule to ensure the essence of boxing is preserved." ([26:05])

Wade draws parallels between this situation and basketball's shift towards three-point shooting, suggesting that while technique is vital, overemphasis on certain strategies can detract from the sport's fundamental appeal.

b. Turki Alishik's Support and Industry Impact

Turki Alishik echoes Showbiz's sentiments, emphasizing the need for active participation and discouraging fighters from avoiding engagement. He advocates for penalizing excessive movement similar to how excessive clinching is handled:

"The no running rule would serve to discourage fighters from resorting to constant movement as a strategy to avoid fighting." ([26:05])

Wade discusses the potential implications of such a rule, acknowledging that while it's controversial, it aims to enhance the spectator experience by promoting more dynamic and engaging fights.

"This doesn't mean you can't be defensive as a fighter. It doesn't mean you can't move as a fighter... It's about fighters intentions to avoid fighting." ([72:03])

c. Online Reactions and Wade's Perspective

The proposal has sparked significant online debate, with mixed reactions from the boxing community. Some argue that it restricts fighters' natural defensive strategies, while others support it as a means to make fights more entertaining.

Wade defends the initiative, advocating for a balance between defense and engagement:

"A high level defensive artist is one that not only can make you miss without always completely disengaging from the action, but also can make you miss and make you pay." ([26:05])

He emphasizes that the rule aims to discourage fighters from avoiding meaningful engagement without compromising legitimate defensive techniques.

5. Kamaru Usman's Comeback and UFC Fight Night Atlanta Review

Timestamp: [69:59] – [74:28]

The episode shifts back to Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) with a review of UFC Fight Night in Atlanta, highlighting Kamaru Usman's return to the octagon.

a. Fight Breakdown: Kamaru Usman vs. Joaquin Buckley

Kamaru Usman faces Joaquin Buckley in a five-round main event. Wade provides an in-depth analysis of the fight dynamics:

"Kamaru did just do the best things to win the fight." ([72:03])

Usman's strategy centered on forward movement, takedowns, and ground-and-pound tactics, effectively neutralizing Buckley's striking prowess. Despite Buckley's attempts to defend takedowns and land significant strikes, Usman's superior wrestling and control time dominated the match.

Key moments include Usman's effective use of elbows and continual pressure, leading to Buckley's eventual defeat via technical decision.

"His control time, his elbows, his punches, his maneuvering, his experience and his ability won him this fight." ([73:41])

b. Kamaru Usman's Legacy and Future Prospects

Wade reflects on Usman's career, acknowledging his status as one of the greatest 170-pound fighters of all time. Despite recent setbacks, Usman's performance in Atlanta reaffirms his enduring prowess and potential for further accolades.

"Kamaru Usman is not your regular UFC fighter. He's one of the greatest 170 pound fighters that's ever lived." ([72:03])

He expresses optimism about Usman's future endeavors, suggesting that Usman's dedication and skill will keep him relevant and competitive in the division.

c. Dana White's Remarks and Community Reactions

Post-fight, Dana White commends Usman's performance, highlighting his resilience and star power. Wade notes the broader MMA community's resilience and support for Usman, despite criticisms and challenges.

"That's it. That's all you could really say about that performance." ([74:24])

6. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Wade wraps up the episode by encouraging listeners to engage in respectful debates about the discussed topics, emphasizing a collective passion for improving the sports of boxing and MMA.

"We can all do better. That's what I think though. You guys let me know in the comments where I get it wrong and let the debate continue respectfully, please, on all sides..." ([73:28])

He reiterates the importance of evolving sports strategies to maintain spectator interest while preserving the integrity and essence of boxing and MMA.

Notable Quotes:

• Wade: "Jon is completely and utterly ducking Tom Aspitall, and the UFC is letting him get away with it because they're trying to, I guess, make a second attempt at making this fight." ([07:00])

• Dana White: "He said he doesn't care if you strip him. He would vacate it." ([06:35])

• Showbiz: "The tendency of some fighters to prioritize excessive movement or running over engagement... I am advocating for the introduction of the no running rule to ensure the essence of boxing is preserved." ([26:05])

• Turki Alishik: "The no running rule would serve to discourage fighters from resorting to constant movement as a strategy to avoid fighting." ([26:05])

• Wade: "A high level defensive artist is one that not only can make you miss without always completely disengaging from the action, but also can make you miss and make you pay." ([26:05])

• Wade: "Kamaru Usman is not your regular UFC fighter. He's one of the greatest 170 pound fighters that's ever lived." ([72:03])

This episode of The Herd with Colin Cowherd intricately navigates through pivotal moments in both boxing and MMA, offering listeners a comprehensive analysis of current controversies, upcoming major events, and evolving sports regulations. With insightful commentary and critical perspectives, Wade effectively highlights the dynamic nature of combat sports and the continuous efforts to enhance their appeal and integrity.