​Welcome to Midnight Mania! Let’s kick off the night by revisiting the three biggest stories from Thursday, July 9, 2026. Our report opens with a bombshell: Conor McGregor reportedly continued using steroids after his broken leg had healed, allegedly because “he liked how it made him feel.” It’s a reminder of the high-stakes drama that defines UFC 329, including a look back at whether McGregor’s head ever swelled to a new weight class.
Turning to the action on the horizon, Gable Steveson vs. Josh Hokit has fans buzzing. Steveson believes Hokit is heading for the 205-pound division, and while he concedes that Hokit’s long-term future may lie there, he can’t fault him for pursuing the biggest possible fights first. The discussion about UFC 329’s standout betting props, parlays, and picks continues, with a spotlight on McGregor vs. Holloway 2. Among the underdogs, King Green stands out as a favorite, though Brandon Royval’s odds are tempting for bettors who like a riskier play.
In the women’s division, Bella Mir’s strong wrestling and jiu-jitsu background could inject new life into the Bantamweight ranks that have felt a bit stagnant lately. When it comes to title pursuits, the winner could earn another shot at UFC gold; while I slightly favor Fiorot, Grasso should not be counted out, either. On training news, Petr Yan continues to work his core with a medicine ball, a reminder that even champions refine the fundamentals.
Beyond the cage, questions linger: is imitation truly the sincerest form of flattery, or should some athletes be kept under closer scrutiny? Eric Nicksick remains gracious about addressing reports of the Ali Abdelaziz incident, choosing class over confrontation. In the broader picture, a great athlete with true grit can rise without resorting to flashy theatrics, proving that technique and perseverance often trump showmanship.
This is a vivid week for UFC fans, and the fun challenge continues. Dustin Pague is a name to watch in this unfolding narrative. Remember, a single elbow can change the course of a fight, underscoring why ground-and-pound is still a critical tool—despite how often it’s overlooked in today’s mix. The sport’s evolution persists, from body-leaning fakes to the textbook setup of an overhand right off a well-timed body jab.
As we reflect on “The Motherland Calls,” Europe’s tallest statue, there’s a sense of global grandeur surrounding mixed martial arts—one that invites fans to join the Mania community in The Feed and share their takes. Stay tuned for more updates, as the Midnight Mania feed continues to bring you the latest in martial arts action, with fresh, engaging coverage designed for better SEO and deeper reader engagement. Sleep tight, Maniacs—more martial arts madness is always on the way.