Formula 1
Qualifying Dominance
George Russell delivered a dominant pole position at the Australian Grand Prix, leading teammate Antonelli across all three qualifying segments. The British driver's margin was described as "staggering" by commentators, with Charles Leclerc noting the gap to Mercedes had grown to eight tenths of a second - double what he'd predicted. Russell's performance showcased Mercedes' early-season strength as they lived up to pre-race expectations in Melbourne.
Pre-Race Drama
A significant controversy erupted when teams received last-minute notification about circuit modifications just hours before final practice. The FIA's intervention was described as "draconian" by team principals who pushed back against what they saw as an unfair mid-event change. Meanwhile, Lance Stroll received special dispensation to start the race despite not setting a competitive lap time all weekend, while Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz also gained clearance to compete.
Technical Developments
The 2026 season introduced several key changes, including a new pre-start procedure that debuted at Albert Park. The five-second delay allows drivers at the back of the grid extra time to prepare their new powertrains. Additionally, the FIA cut recoverable energy limits in qualifying to prevent extreme tactics, addressing concerns about energy management that has become central to the new regulations. Teams are also adapting to track-dependent performance characteristics of the new cars, with Mercedes expressing unusual confidence about overtaking prospects in Melbourne.
Driver Concerns
An intense drivers' briefing followed criticism from Verstappen and Norris about various aspects of the new regulations. The meeting focused on their first real impressions of the 2026 cars and the challenges they present. Fernando Alonso revealed that Aston Martin would need to retire immediately if any slight issue appears during the Australian Grand Prix, prioritizing the team's 2026 campaign over risking further damage to their car.
Practice Session Highlights
Charles Leclerc topped the opening practice session of the new era, heading teammate Lewis Hamilton and Red Bull's Max Verstappen. The session saw McLaren and Aston Martin hit trouble early, setting the tone for what would be a challenging weekend for several teams. George Russell also topped the interrupted FP3 session, with Antonelli suffering a heavy crash that raised concerns about the new cars' characteristics.
Regulatory Updates
The FIA revealed updated 2026 driver guidelines following a Qatar meeting, focusing on flexibility and common sense application. This was seen as a significant win for drivers who had pushed for more adaptable rules. Additionally, the introduction of rear LED lights to indicate energy levels on the 2026 cars has become a talking point, as teams and fans adapt to this visual indicator of the new power unit technology.
Season Outlook
With the Bahrain and Saudi Arabia Grands Prix unlikely to be replaced if cancelled due to regional tensions, teams are focused on making the most of the Australian Grand Prix weekend. The effect of US and Israeli military action against Iran has already been felt in the paddock, with many team personnel absent from Wednesday preparations. As the season begins, questions remain about whether Verstappen's Nurburgring start is already finalized, adding another layer of intrigue to the early championship narrative.
Football/Soccer
FA Cup Action
Liverpool secured a 3-1 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux to advance to the FA Cup quarter-finals. Liverpool bounced back from their recent defeat to Wolves with a 3-1 win at Molineux to progress to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup. Liverpool manager Arne Slot has heaped praise on "special" Rio Ngumoha after the teenager impressed in his side's 3-1 victory over Wolves on Friday. Liverpool weren't good enough against Wolves - Robertson. Defender Andy Robertson says Liverpool will have to play better in Friday's FA Cup tie against Wolves than they did in Tuesday's Premier League defeat by the same opposition.
Bundesliga Battles
Bayern Munich win their fifth match in a row with a 4-1 win over Borussia Monchengladbach, to move to 14 points clear at the top of the Bundesliga table. Bayern beat Borussia Mönchengladbach 4-1 on Friday to extend its lead at the top of the Bundesliga to 14 points over Borussia Dortmund. Bayern Munich's game against Borussia Monchengladbach on Friday with a calf injury in a blow to his hopes of breaking the Bundesliga record for most goals in a season.
Scottish Cup Drama
Two early goals help Falkirk make it by Dundee United to reach the Scottish Cup semi-finals. Falkirk beat Dundee United to reach Scottish Cup semi-finals. Barney Stewart continued his impressive goalscoring form to send Falkirk on their way to the Scottish Cup semi-finals with the opener in a 2-1 victory over Dundee United. Eight previous Scottish Cup winners, including holders Aberdeen, do battle in four quarter-finals spread over the next three days.
Transfer Rumours
Napoli hope to fend off Premier League interest for Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay, Martin Boyle to end long Hibernian association and Celtic face competition to secure defender on permanent deal. Several names - including those of two former club heroes - are in the running to take the reins at Tottenham, while Serie A champions Napoli are looking to secure the future of Scott McTominay. Real Madrid are looking to the Premier League and Bundesliga to reinforce in the summer. Transfer Talk has the latest.
Managerial Moves
Spurs target Freedman in sporting director search. Tottenham are interested in appointing Dougie Freedman as the club's new sporting director. Celtic manager Danny Rohl says Sunday's game with Celtic is a "great opportunity to make a good step towards" winning a trophy. Celtic move up to second in the Premiership. Reaction as Celtic pick up crucial Pittodrie win moving to within 5 points of Hearts.
Women's Football
England made her 145th senior appearance for England on Saturday. Few have been better performances. England manager Sarina Wiegman says it is "very important" her team are patient if goals do not come quickly in their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Saturday. Erin Cuthbert speaks about her responsibility in the Scotland camp going into their Women's World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg at Hampden.
Player Performances
Arsenal needed their big guns to come off the bench to help them past Mansfield, but it was 16-year-olds Max Dowman and Marli Salmon who made history. Arsenal did not play well at Mansfield. They were dominated at the start of the game, pegged back in the second half and held on a little at the end. But no matter which period they were in, Max Dowma. Arsenal has one of Arsenal's strongest ever squads. But, with four competitions in play, he is still learning how to rotate.
International Football
Republic of Ireland World Cup play-off after being ruled out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury. Roma striker Evan Ferguson will miss the Republic of Ireland's World Cup play-off after being ruled out for the rest of the season with an ankle injury. Northern Ireland's interim boss says he is relishing a return to Mourneview Park for his side's World Cup qualifier against Turkey on Saturday.
Spanish LaLiga
Federico Valverde struck in the fourth minute of stoppage time as Real Madrid snatched a vital 2-1 win at Celta Vigo to bounce back from consecutive LaLiga defeats. Real Madrid snatched a vital 2-1 win at Celta Vigo to bounce back from consecutive LaLiga defeats. Álvaro Arbeloa called Federico Valverde "everything a Real Madrid player should be" after the midfielder scored a late winner against Celta Vigo.
French Ligue 1
Paris Saint-Germain dropped points in the Ligue 1 title race after losing 3-1 at home to a slick Monaco side on Friday. Paris Saint-Germain star Vitinha says it would be "foolish" for him to consider leaving the Ligue 1 giants amid reported interest from Real Madrid. Ballon d'Or winner has been included in Paris Saint-Germain's squad for its Ligue 1 game at home to AS Monaco on Friday.
MLS Action
Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano labeled Lionel Messi as 'one of a kind' as the Argentine forward looks to reach 900 career goals on Saturday night when playing against D.C. United. USL Championship season opened Friday, but play halted immediately as Lexington SC and Louisville City FC players stood motionless for one minute to protest stalled CBA negotiations.
Other Football News
Former Premier League winger is bailed to appear for trial in July. Former Premier League winger Jordan Ibe is bailed to appear for trial in July. Chelsea head coach says goalkeeper Robert Sanchez was "really disappointed" to be left out at Aston Villa. Chelsea head coach praises his side's "outstanding" team performance following their 4-1 win over Aston Villa.
Women's World Cup Qualifiers
Scotland vice-captain speaks about her responsibility in the Scotland camp going into their Women's World Cup qualifier against Luxembourg at Hampden. Rhian Wilkinson says the impact of her "finishers" is evidence of the increased options at her disposal as Wales plot a path to the 2027 Women's World Cup. England manager Sarina Wiegman says it is "very important" her team are patient if goals do not come quickly in their 2027 Women's World Cup qualifier against Iceland on Saturday.
NBA Basketball
Game Results & Standings
Victor Wembanyama led the Spurs to a stunning 116-112 comeback win over the Clippers, overcoming a 25-point deficit. The French star said he had "zero left" physically after the emotional victory. In Dallas, Cooper Flagg returned from injury with 18 points and six assists, but the Mavericks fell 115-114 to the Magic in a heartbreaking finish.
Injury Updates
Nuggets star Jamal Murray left Friday's game against the Knicks with an ankle injury and is set for testing Saturday. Celtics center Nikola Vucevic underwent surgery on a fractured ring finger and will be reevaluated in three to four weeks. Deandre Ayton left Thursday's loss to the Nuggets with a knee injury, while LeBron James complained of a sore elbow afterward and his status for Friday's game against the Pacers remains uncertain.
Player Debuts & Returns
Trae Young dazzled in his Wizards debut, finishing with 12 points and showing why he's the type of player Washington hasn't had since John Wall. Despite some rust, Young thrilled the D.C. crowd with his playmaking and scoring ability. Meanwhile, Kristaps Porzingis remains sidelined by a "mysterious" illness, having not played since his February 19 debut for the Warriors after being traded.
Legal & Off-Court News
A federal judge issued a $1 million civil judgment against NBA free agent Malik Beasley in a contract dispute with his former agency. In a separate case, Alexander Esteban Huaiquil Chavez pleaded guilty to interstate transportation of stolen property for his role in a theft group that burglarized athletes' homes across the United States in 2024.
Coaching & Strategy
Knicks coach Mike Brown praised Clippers star Paul George's ability to draw fouls, saying "SGA does a great job of convincing the referees -- probably better than anybody in the league -- that he's getting hit." The comment came after New York's 103-100 loss to Oklahoma City, where Alex Caruso and Isaiah Hartenstein both exited with injuries during the Thunder's victory.
Season Outlook
With Jayson Tatum preparing to return from his Achilles injury, the Celtics are positioned to shift the NBA's balance of power in the final weeks of the season. The timing of his comeback could prove crucial for Boston's championship aspirations. Meanwhile, Ja Morant remains at least two weeks away from returning for the Grizzlies as he recovers from a sprained elbow ligament.
Upcoming Storylines
As the trade deadline approaches, teams are evaluating their rosters and potential moves. The Lakers face uncertainty with multiple key players injured, while the Warriors must navigate their season without Stephen Curry and now Porzingis. Young players like Cooper Flagg and veterans like LeBron James dealing with injuries will be closely monitored as the playoff race intensifies.
NFL Football
Player Retirements & Releases
Rams cornerback Darious Williams has retired after 100 regular-season NFL games. Following Williams' retirement, Los Angeles still has four pending free agents at cornerback. Vikings center Ryan Kelly announced his retirement Friday after 10 seasons in the NFL, following an injury-filled season in 2025. The Texans released veteran running back Joe Mixon on Friday after he missed the 2025 season with a foot injury.
Contract Moves & Free Agency
The Cowboys have placed a $5.7 million second-round tender on kicker Brandon Aubrey, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter. Dallas hopes to sign the Pro Bowler to a multiyear extension. The Texans have agreed to a one-year, $40 million contract extension with defensive end Danielle Hunter, a source confirmed to ESPN. The Bears are releasing linebacker Tremaine Edmunds, a source told ESPN, a move that creates $15 million in cap space for the team. The Saints defensive end Cameron Jordan will become a free agent when the new league year begins next week, sources told ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Trades & Acquisitions
The Bears found a new starting center, acquiring Garrett Bradbury from the Patriots in exchange for a 2027 fifth-round pick, a source told ESPN. The Seahawks reached an agreement with inside linebacker Drake Thomas on a two-year, $8 million contract, a source confirmed. The Chargers and free agent center Tyler Biadasz have agreed to a deal, the team announced Friday. Biadasz will replace Bradley Bozeman, who retired last week.
Staff Changes
The 49ers are hiring former Bears head coach Matt Eberflus to the team's defensive staff, a source confirmed to ESPN. Kyle Shanahan is bringing in Eberflus to bolster San Francisco's defensive coaching staff.
Veteran Players Seeking New Teams
Offensive lineman Taylor Decker, the Lions' longest-tenured player, has requested his release, he announced on social media. The Bills on Friday released veteran nickel corner Taron Johnson, wide receiver Curtis Samuel, safety Taylor Rapp and cornerback Dane Jackson as they work to get cap compliant.
Quarterback Moves
The Patriots and restricted free agent quarterback Tommy DeVito have agreed to a two-year deal with a maximum value of $7.4 million, DeVito's agent told ESPN's Adam Schefter. The Browns have once again restructured the contract of quarterback Deshaun Watson, league sources confirmed to ESPN, a move that frees close to $36 million in cap space.
Notable Developments
Browns star Myles Garrett was issued a citation for speeding -- his ninth since entering the NFL in 2017 -- after he was clocked going 94 mph in a 70 mph zone. The Vikings are expected to release Jonathan Allen as they continue to whittle down their salary cap deficit and reduce their cash commitments, sources said. The Steelers are releasing veteran tight end Jonnu Smith, sources told ESPN. Smith arrived in Pittsburgh via a trade with the Dolphins last summer.
Veteran QB Aaron Rodgers says he remains undecided on his playing status for next season despite the Steelers hiring Mike McCarthy, with whom he won a Super Bowl in Green Bay. The Rams are re-signing safety Kam Curl to a three-year, $36 million contract, a source confirmed to ESPN. With free agency approaching, analysts are examining which players might be overrated or underrated, including questions about whether Travis Etienne Jr. might be a risky signing.
MLB Baseball
World Baseball Classic Highlights
Defending champion Japan stayed undefeated in Pool C with an 8-6 win over Korea, powered by two home runs from Cubs slugger Seiya Suzuki. Shohei Ohtani hit a grand slam as Japan hammered Taiwan 13-0 in their opener. Team USA plated 15 runs in a dominant win over Brazil, with Aaron Judge hitting a two-run homer and Brice Turang driving in four runs. Puerto Rico opened with a 5-0 win over Colombia, with Seth Lugo pitching four-plus innings of three-hit ball and Edwin Diaz working the ninth for the save.
Spring Training Updates
Astros All-Star shortstop Jeremy Peña expressed uncertainty about his return timeline from a broken finger, targeting Opening Day. Cincinnati Reds ace Hunter Greene left spring training camp due to right elbow stiffness and will undergo an MRI. The Angels announced that John Carpino is retiring as president after 23 years, with Molly Jolly set to replace him next month.
Player Movement
The Astros signed veteran catcher Christian Vázquez to a minor league deal with an invitation to spring training. The Rangers agreed to a minor league contract with veteran outfielder Andrew McCutchen. Tigers pitcher Tarik Skubal revealed he never received a long-term offer from Detroit this offseason and is focused on 2026 free agency.
Controversies and Off-Field Issues
An insurance controversy rocked Puerto Rico's roster but the home team in Pool A is pushing forward with their WBC journey. A former Team USA captain was denied participation, and a squad so decimated it threatened to leave the tournament, highlighting how an insurance mess shaped the event.
Notable Performances
Manny Ramirez's son Lucas Ramirez hit two home runs for Brazil in a losing effort, with the 12-time All-Star watching proudly from the stands. Clayton Kershaw received a standing ovation from Rockies fans in his Team USA debut, marking a memorable moment for the longtime Dodger.
Eric Karabell made bold fantasy-relevant predictions for all 30 MLB teams, including an Athletic hitting 50 homers and four Royals reaching. Kiley McDaniel provided rankings of rookie-eligible players for 2026 fantasy baseball drafts. Every top 100 player in the 2026 World Baseball Classic was highlighted, showcasing the tournament's star power.
Special Features
The World Baseball Classic in Miami featured custom hot dogs for each country in Pool D, including the Frikandel Broodje - a deep-fried hot dog topped with curry, mayo and onions. Team USA's arrival included charter flights, team dinners and rivals bonding as the most talented team on the planet came together quickly for the WBC.
Managerial Moves
Diamondbacks' Brady Counsell made his professional debut against his father Craig's Cubs, getting his first reps as a D-backs player. Braves manager Walt Weiss said he's disappointed following Jurickson Profar's suspension but remains confident "someone's gonna step up" in the outfielder's absence.
NHL Hockey
NHL Trade Deadline Moves
Red Wings acquired veteran defenseman Justin Faulk from the rebuilding Blues, adding experience to their blueline. Leafs made multiple moves, trading Bobby McMann to the Kraken and Scott Laughton to the Kings as they reshaped their roster. Wild brought back captain Nick Foligno, giving him a chance to play alongside his brother Marcus in Minnesota.
Blue Jackets bolstered their forward depth by acquiring Conor Garland from the Canucks in pursuit of their first playoff berth since 2020. Red Wings also brought back David Perron from Ottawa, sending a conditional 2026 fourth-round pick for the veteran forward. Ducks locked up Ryan Poehling with a four-year, $15 million extension during his first season with the team.
Blues captain Brayden Schenn was dealt to the Islanders, with Jonathan Drouin, two picks and a prospect heading back to St. Louis. Sabres addressed their blueline by acquiring Logan Stanley and Luke Schenn from Winnipeg after Colton Parayko blocked a trade to Buffalo by invoking his no-movement clause.
Stars added forward Michael Bunting from Nashville in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick. Wild strengthened their defense by acquiring Jeff Petry from Florida for a conditional 2026 seventh-round pick. Golden Knights added veteran center Nic Dowd from Washington, sending back prospect Jesper Vikman, a 2027 third-round pick and a 2029 second-round pick.
Maple Leafs traded center Nicolas Roy to Colorado for a conditional 2027 first-round pick and 2026 fifth-round selection. Oilers acquired forwards Jason Dickinson and Colton Dach from Chicago in a second trade between the teams this week. Mammoth bolstered their blueline by acquiring Mac Kenzie Weegar from the Flames.
Player News & Suspensions
Penguins forward Evgeni Malkin received a five-game suspension for slashing Buffalo's Rasmus Dahlin during Thursday's game. Avalanche reacquired forward Nazem Kadri from Calgary in a trade, bringing back the player who won a Stanley Cup with Colorado in 2022 before leaving as a free agent.
Panthers failed to move goalie Sergei Bobrovsky before the deadline and will now focus on contract extension talks with the 37-year-old netminder. Sharks secured goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic with a two-year extension. Capitals signed forward Ethen Frank to a two-year, $4 million contract.
Sharks forward Kiefer Sherwood agreed to a five-year extension worth $5.75 million annually against the salary cap. Golden Knights placed captain Mark Stone on injured reserve with an upper-body injury sustained in Sunday's loss to Pittsburgh.
Notable Retentions & Returns
Lightning brought back veteran Corey Perry in a trade from the Kings, reuniting with the team where he previously won a Stanley Cup. Kraken signed captain Jordan Eberle to a two-year, $5.5 million annual average value extension.
Capitals made a surprising move by trading veteran defenseman John Carlson to the Ducks. Caps will participate in an "Inside Out Classic" against the Rangers on April 5, featuring real-time animated characters from the Pixar film during the broadcast.
Passing of a Legend
Blackhawks community mourned the loss of Troy Murray, who played 12 seasons with the team and later served as their longtime broadcasting analyst. The 63-year-old passed away recently, leaving behind a legacy both as a player and as the voice of the franchise for many fans.
Playoff Picture
Stanley Cup playoff watch shows the postseason races remain fluid with spots, division titles and seeding still up for grabs. Teams continue jockeying for position with the trade deadline reshaping the competitive landscape across both conferences.
General Sports
Rugby Union
Scotland stunned France with a seven-try victory at Murrayfield that blew the Six Nations championship wide open. The Scots annihilated French Grand Slam dreams as Darcy Graham scored an early try before Kyle Steyn intercepted an Antoine Dupont pass to extend Scotland's lead to 33-14. Finn Russell delivered a masterclass performance as Scotland kept their own title hopes alive, with head coach Gregor Townsend insisting his team was only interested in preventing France from securing the title at Murrayfield.
Ireland kept alive their slim Six Nations hopes with a bonus-point victory over spirited Wales in Dublin. Caelan Doris said his side are "nowhere near" reaching their full potential as they prepare for the next challenge. Wales captain Dewi Lake said his team believe they can defy the odds and beat Ireland, aiming to have the last laugh after being the subject of ridicule. Meanwhile, England's away-day blues continue as they aim to get their Six Nations back on track against a resurgent Italy in Rome.
Tennis & Olympics
Former world 100m champion Fred Kerley has been banned for two years for an anti-doping whereabouts violation. British number one Emma Raducanu says she wants to "bring my instincts back out" as she prepares for Indian Wells. Jack Draper says he no longer has "any fear" around the arm injury that plagued him for eight months as he prepares to begin his Indian Wells title defence.
Para-alpine skier Varvara Voronchikhina won Russia's first medal of the Milan-Cortina Winter Paralympics with downhill bronze. However, Iran will not take part in the Winter Paralympics, the IPC confirms, as the nation's solitary athlete scheduled to compete "cannot travel safely to Italy." Nina Sparks becomes Great Britain's first female Paralympic snowboarder after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 2021, deciding it was going to be the making of her.
Basketball & College Sports
Breanna Stewart and Mist topped Phantom 80-74 in the championship game to become the queens of Unrivaled for 2026, despite a brilliant 40-point performance from Kelsey Plum. Miami (Ohio) finished the regular season as the only unbeaten team in Division I men's basketball, winning 110-108 in overtime over Ohio.
President Donald Trump says he will write an executive order within a week that will "solve all of the problems" brought forth in an unprecedented meeting at the White House to address the future of college sports. Meanwhile, Arike Ogunbowale was arrested and charged with misdemeanor battery in Miami early Thursday morning after allegedly punching a man in the face.
Cycling & Motorsport
Four-time Tour de France winner Tadej Pogacar soloed to victory as he won the Strade Bianne for a record fourth time. In Formula, Lando Norris and Co. raged at the driving experience as F1's new cars failed to deliver on a painful debut. George Russell knew his Mercedes was fast but was surprised by just how quick, while Lewis Hamilton says "I'm going to be here until that happens" as he pushes for a grand prix in Africa before retiring.
Boxing & Combat Sports
Naoya Inoue and Junto Nakatani's highly anticipated boxing clash is set for May 2 at the Tokyo Dome for Inoue's undisputed junior featherweight title. Jai Opetaia is set to lose his IBF cruiserweight title if he goes ahead with a fight for a Zuffa Boxing belt against Brandon Glanton on Sunday in Las Vegas.
Combat sports star Francis Ngannou is a free agent after his release by the PFL. Tom Aspinall says seeing Conor Benn secure a reported £11m one-fight deal with Zuffa Boxing helped convince him to sign with Eddie Hearn in a bid to maximise his earnings outside of the UFC. Dana White has "no issues" with Aspinall signing a business deal with Hearn and denied ever questioning his champion's eye injury.
Cricket
India reached the T20 World Cup final as England fell short, missing out by seven runs. Jacob Bethell brought up a "brilliant" century off 45 balls for England in their T20 World Cup semi-final against India, but his thrilling century wasn't enough as India pipped England by just seven runs to seal a spot in the final. Brendon McCullum says he makes "no apologies" for running an informal dressing room as England coach but rejects the perception it is casual. Former India players Rahul Dravid and Ravichandran Ashwin are among the latest investors to acquire a franchise in the European T20 Premier League.
Winter Sports & Paralympics
Russia won its first medal at the Winter Paralympics through Varvara Voronchikhina's downhill bronze. Great Britain's Jo Butterfield and Jason Kean lost 10-7 to Estonia in their Winter Paralympics wheelchair curling opener in Cortina. Great Britain's wheelchair curlers held their nerve to beat USA 8-7 in a narrow win that keeps them fully in the hunt for a semi-final spot.
Fionn McLaughlin, a Red Bull junior driver, is ready for his Formula 3 debut in Melbourne after going from gaming in his bedroom to Formula 1 weekends. Rhys McClenaghan, Olympic champion, spoke about returning to the pommel horse after 18 months out injured.
Other Sports
Fred Warburton took up ski racing in a bid to impress his Italian father-in-law - now he is competing for Great Britain at the Winter Paralympics. May Campbell scored three tries as she helped Saracens back to the top of the Premiership Women's Rugby table with a 43-26 win at Harlequins.
Warrington Wolves maintained their 100% start to the Super League season by holding off a spirited York Knights side in a high-scoring encounter. Wakefield Trinity battled to a hard-fought Super League win over injury-hit Hull FC.
Hungary's Panna Udvardy says she was sent "disturbing" messages including a picture of a gun, warning her family would be harmed unless she lost a tennis match. Max Holloway talks about his trademark 'point-down' before facing Charles Oliveira for the BMF title at UFC 326 in Las Vegas on Saturday.