On To The Next One: Matches To Make After UFC Vegas 115

In this episode of On to the Next One, hosts Mike Hecht and Alexander Kaylee return after a brief hiatus to dissect the aftermath of UFC Vegas 115, a card they initially dismissed as one of the weakest in recent memory. Despite low expectations, the event delivered surprisingly entertaining fights, particularly in the form of dominant finishes and gritty, fun matchups. The duo celebrates the success of the card’s 'squash match' formula—where underdog fighters are matched against heavy favorites—arguing that this approach, while not glamorous, produces exciting, competitive fights that serve the sport well. They highlight standout performances from Ethan Ewing, Kai Kamaka III, and Tommy McMillan, while also calling out the UFC’s lack of title defense plans for women’s divisions, which remain largely inactive despite high-stakes fights. The hosts then dive into their matchmaking picks, advocating for strategic, development-focused pairings that prioritize fighter growth over immediate star power. They emphasize the need to avoid rushing young talents like Alice Pereira and Delano Rishalo, while also cautioning against overhyping fighters like McMillan before they’ve earned the spotlight. The episode concludes with a lively discussion on fan-submitted picks, including dream matchups like Moicano vs. Pimblett and Ewing vs. Basharat, as well as a critical look at the controversial head-slash incident involving Gato Barbosa. The hosts express frustration with the Nevada Athletic Commission’s handling of the fight, calling it a failure of enforcement and a disservice to the sport. They also preview the upcoming UFC 327 card, which features a stacked light heavyweight main event and a CBS broadcast, while noting the scheduling clash with PFL Chicago—a fact they find both ironic and unfortunate. Ultimately, the episode reaffirms the podcast’s mission: to champion smart, honest, and entertaining matchmaking in the UFC, even when the cards aren’t perfect.