On Wednesday, Dana White momentarily shook up the MMA world when he announced that rumors circulating about Floyd Mayweather Jr. in MMA were true and that the UFC was having “real” talks with him about fighting in the cage. The MMA world was quickly abuzz with the possibility and fighters began lining up for the opportunity to be the one to welcome the all-time great boxer into the land of knees and grappling.

All the fervor was short-lived however, as not long after the story broke, Mayweather refuted White’s claims, saying that his comments were misinterpreted. While never denying that he was in talks with the UFC, Mayweather said that his previous comments were just him saying that he could jump over to the UFC and “make a billion dollars,” not that he would. In fact, he ended the statement by saying that he was “not gonna do that though.”

That must have been music to the ears of Mayweather’s last opponent, UFC lightweight champion Conor McGregor who took to social media, and in as succinct a fashion as possible, let Mayweather know exactly how he felt about the big tease from his former opponent.

McGregor and Mayweather boxed earlier this year in “The Money Fight,” a cross-promotional superfight that ended up being the second biggest Pay-Per-View event of all time, generating almost $600 million in revenue. After the fight, Mayweather retired from boxing but those type of numbers led many to believe a rematch of some kind could be in the offing. And with Mayweather specifically keeping the door open by saying, “We just don’t know what the future holds for Floyd Mayweather,” let the games begin, again.

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MUST-READ STORIES

MMAyweather. Dana White says UFC in “real” talks with Floyd Mayweather about deal.

Not happening. Floyd Mayweather Jr. squashes talks about fighting in the UFC.

209. Nate Diaz says fighters calling him out need to “ask nicely, motherf*ckers.”

PFL. Fighter threatens to sue Professional Fighters League, Ray Sefo responds.

RDA. Santiago Ponzinibbio suggests a title eliminator bout with Rafael dos Anjos next.

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VIDEO STEW

One of the KO’s of the Year this year.

The big Nate Diaz interview.

Floyd saying nah. . . sort of.

T-Wood talking Floyd in the UFC.

Floyd is everywhere.

A look at Volkan training.

Woodley behind the scenes at UFC 218.

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LISTEN UP

The MMA Circus. Recapping UFC Winnipeg.

Heavy Hands. Breaking down Rafael dos Anjos’ big win over Tyron woodley.

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SOCIAL MEDIA BOUILLABAISSE

Everyone wants in.

But they don’t believe.

Lol.

Beef.

Covington.

Not sure 452 likes is cutting it for GSP’s big fight plans.

Triple platinum or we all failed.

Chase Sherman is a savage.

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FIGHT ANNOUNCEMENTS

Mirsad Bektic (11-1) vs. Godofredo Pepey (13-5); UFC Charlotte, Jan. 27.

Andre Fili (17-5) vs. Dennis Bermudez (16-7); UFC Charlotte, Jan. 27.

Damir Hadzovic (11-3) vs. Alan Patrick (14-1); UFC Belem, Feb. 3.

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TODAY IN MMA HISTORY

1997: At UFC Japan: Ultimate Ultimate, Randy Couture became the UFC heavyweight champion by winning a decision over Maurice Smith. Also that evening, Frank Shamrock became the inaugural light heavyweight champion, submitting Olympic gold medalist Kevin Jackson with an armbar in 22 seconds.

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FINAL THOUGHTS

I’m not saying Floyd comes to MMA, but I’m also not willing to say he doesn’t. Generating the GDP of a small nation with only a fight is a massive incentive to get back in and do it again, as many times as they can sell it.

And let’s be clear here, none of the parties involved here are dumb. Mayweather could come to the UFC and fight Conor and expect to receive a light touch. Maybe he takes Floyd down, maybe Floyd escapes a position, they stand up for a bit, then eventually Conor taps Floyd gently. Everyone wins and it sets up the greatest trilogy fight of all time, Conor vs. Floyd: Knight Fights.

That’s all for today folks. Take it easy and see y’all tomorrow.

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EXIT POLL

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