General Sports 3 Days

Last updated: July 12, 2026, 5:31 AM ET

UFC 329 Delivers Mixed Fortunes for McGregor and Pimblett

Conor McGregor's highly anticipated return at UFC 329 concluded abruptly with an injury in the opening minutes for the Irish star. ESPN MMA contributors analyzed the event, noting that McGregor's performance in his ability to recapture his former fighting prowess. In contrast, Paddy Pimblett with a swift 52-second submission victory over Benoit Saint-Denis. Gable Steveson also, securing a first-round TKO against Elisha Ellison without needing a takedown. Speculation continues regarding McGregor's future, with many questioning if he remains a significant draw despite his past impact on the sport.

Tennis World Gears Up for Wimbledon and Beyond

As Wimbledon progresses, Jannik Sinner enters as the defending champion, but Alexander Zverev, having recently won his first major. Switzerland's Breel Embolo faced a controversial red card for simulation in a World Cup quarterfinal match against Argentina, drawing criticism for the VAR decision. The dominance of Czech tennis is evident, with Linda Noskova's victory over Karolina Muchova. Novak Djokovic, despite a loss to Sinner in the Wimbledon semifinals and pursue further major titles. Britain's Alfie Hewett wheelchair singles final at Wimbledon, while Arthur Fery's journey to the spotlight continued. John McEnroe and Tim Henman have been fielding listener questions about the tournament.

Rugby Union Sees Mixed Results and New Talent Emerge

Argentina provided reality for Wales, securing a decisive 35-21 victory in San Juan. Louis Rees-Zammit was dropped to the bench for the match against Argentina, with Sam Costelow starting at fly-half. Scotland, despite scoring four tries, fell short in a 42-28 defeat to a changed South Africa in the Nations Championship. Ireland secured their second bonus-point win in the Nations Championship. Will Jordan with a hat-trick in their 47-17 thrashing of Italy. Henry Pollock's second-half hat-trick for England against Fiji for a starting spot.

Basketball and Football News from Around the Globe

Mario Saint-Supery has Valencia after a standout freshman season at Gonzaga. The WNBA saw a record crowd of 20,996 in Montreal as Dallas defeated Toronto 108-95, with Paige Bueckers scoring 34 points. The Chicago Sky, with Natasha Cloud, hope for a strong showing after a disruptive offseason. In college basketball, Marcus Spears Jr., the No. 1 prospect in the 2027 class, has reclassified and committed to Texas. Nikola Kusturica has agreed to a multiyear deal with UCLA, making him a contender for the No. 1 pick in the 2028 NBA draft. Deion Sanders and other coaches shared insights during Big 12 media days. Mike Boynton Jr. has been appointed the new men's basketball coach at Michigan on a two-year contract. Alabama has secured the commitment of top in-state QB prospect Kingston Preyear for 2028.

Cricket and Other Sports Updates

In cricket, England at Lord's, trailing by 269 runs after being bowled out for 170 in their first innings. World Cup-winning captain Heather Knight has announced her retirement from international cricket. The West Indies, led by Hayley Matthews' 159, hammered Ireland in the first ODI. Brodie Croft scored a hat-trick to help Leeds United extend their lead in Super League, while Wakefield Trinity. The ICC faces concerns over "significant corruption" in franchise tournaments, and Afghan women's refugee team are.

Athletics and Cycling See New Records and Performances

Emmanuel Wanyonyi at the Diamond League meeting in Monaco. Tadej Pogacar of the Tour de France, reclaiming the leader's yellow jersey. Tim Merlier secured his second consecutive stage win on the Tour de France after another sprint finish. Australian sprinter Gout Gout will miss the remainder of the season due to a hamstring tear.

Other Notable Sports News

Matt Fitzpatrick shares the lead at the fog-disrupted Scottish Open, while Rory McIlroy found form with an opening round. Charley Hull is in contention after day one of the Evian Championship. Dame Sarah Storey, Great Britain's most decorated Paralympian, has retired from international competition. Eight men have been indicted for their alleged roles in a thwarted attack at a UFC event. Fantasy football and hockey rankings for the 2026 season have been released.