“It should [win an Emmy]. Listen, I talked a lot of s— for a lot of years about boxing and Showtime. I always like to push the envelope and make it better. When new technology comes out, we try to raise the bar because I think it should be. What these guys pulled off, we should be stepping over Emmys at the office” – Dana White said this when he knew that UFC Noche 306 was a huge success. And now, White’s dream of getting an Emmy has been realized. You didn’t hear? Well, that’s what we have in our first story for today’s episode of MMA News Roundup. 

Next up, we’ll see the future of the lightweight division after Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira clash against each other. And finally, we’ll take a look at a major update for UFC 319. So without any further ado, let’s dive right into it!

UFC 306 wins a Sports Emmy for Studio of Production Design/Art Design

Dana White’s hopes came true at the 46th Annual Sports Emmy Awards. The $20 million investment at The Sphere paid dividends as he had predicted. The team executed several short films that showcased the story of Mexican independence and the fighting spirit that the Mexicans carry. For that, UFC Noche got the Sports Emmy for Studio of Production Design/Art Design. And it was Craig Borsari, senior creative director, who received the honorable award. 

While on the podium, Borsari thanked the Academy Awards, the UFC head honcho, Ari Emmanuel, Mark Shapiro, Silent House Productions, Anti Gravity, and Nexas. Apparently, he counted 12 names to be grateful to. In the end, he said, “Just incredible night to celebrate what we felt was an incredible story about the Mexican culture and the fighting spirit. So, for us, this means a lot and we truly, truly appreciate it.” 

Now, let’s take a look at the UFC’s lightweight realm. With the soon-to-be vacant belt on the line, Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira will fight at UFC 317. But what’s going to happen after that? It seems like Ali Abdelaziz has a plan. 

Justin Gaethje brought into lightweight title picture after Ilia Topuria and Charles Oliveira

You see, Justin Gaethje is currently in the #3 spot in the lightweight rankings. But his strength has spoken for the entirety of his UFC career. He not only won the lightweight championship title twice, but also did so with great finesse. He has won a total of 9 Fight of the Night bonuses and 5 Performance of the Night bonuses, with a record of 9-5 in the UFC. No doubt, he should have been considered for the title shot. And that’s what Ali Abdelaziz believed. 

The Egyptian MMA manager said, “I think Justin Gaethje is the number one contender. Justin made himself available to the organization, fought Rafael Fiziev at UFC 313, and I believe he should now wait to face the winner of Topuria vs. Charles. There needs to be justice.” 

Now, let’s move to the flyweight division, where Alexandre Pantoja’s former opponent is set to fight again. And his opponent will be none other than Timothy Elliott. 

Tim Elliott confirms his role at UFC 319

Elliott took to his Instagram Story and revealed that he would indeed fight Kai Asakura at UFC 319, on August 16, 2025. No doubt, the flyweight division is on fire right now. And Elliott’s excitement was also evident. After all, his previous bout against Tatsuro Taira was cancelled. This will actually be his first MMA fight since he defeated Sumudaerji in December 2023. 

On the other hand, UFC 319 will be Asakura’s second bout in the Ultimate Fighting Championship. His debut against Alexandre Pantoja (Yes, it was a title shot) ended up in a second-round submission defeat for the Japanese fighter. But we can certainly expect him to bring in his RIZIN power at UFC 319. 

What are your thoughts on the UFC receiving the Sports Emmy? Who do you think Gaethje will fight next? Do you think Elliott can claim a win at UFC 319? Let us know what you think in the comments down below.