Chris Rini

Columnist

MMA media figure since 2013. Creator of MMA Squared, the first MMA editorial cartoon series, and author of three art and essay books, The Fine Art of Violence. Profiled by Vice Media and The New York Times. Has worked with top MMA writers including Shaheen Al-Shatti, Chuck Mindenhall, and Julie Kedzie. Originally from New York City, now based in Denmark where he continues to exhibit artwork. Currently writing his column at Cage Classics.

Fight AnalysisMMA CultureMMA ArtEditorial CartoonLightweightHeavyweight

Articles by Chris

Conor McGregor and Max Holloway face off ahead of UFC 329

Fight Preview

Mystic Mac vs Blessed Max: McGregor vs Holloway at UFC 329

Conor McGregor vs Max Holloway at UFC 329: Chris Rini previews the rematch and what a win for either man means for the lightweight and welterweight titles.

6 min · Jul 8

Justin Gaethje draped in an American flag holding two UFC championship belts after beating Ilia Topuria

Event Coverage

Justin Gaethje Proves That MMA Math Isn’t Real

Justin Gaethje shocked the world at UFC Freedom 250, decimating Ilia Topuria over four brutal rounds to become undisputed lightweight champion. Chris Rini breaks down how the aging action fighter shredded the MMA Math and beat the 35-year-old curse.

5 min · Jun 16

UFC Freedom 250 — the White House Card preview cover

Fight Preview

UFC Freedom 250: This Is What We've Been Waiting For

UFC Freedom 250 is a stacked card with major implications across three weight classes. Chris Rini previews the Topuria vs Gaethje lightweight title fight, Pereira vs Gane for heavyweight gold, O'Malley's bantamweight redemption arc, and more.

7 min · Jun 13

Event Coverage

Gabriel Bonfim Beats Belal Muhammad: UFC Fight Night Breakdown

Gabriel Bonfim decisively beat former welterweight champion Belal Muhammad over five rounds at UFC Fight Night. MMA veteran Chris Rini breaks down the fight, the fallout, and Brendan Allen vs. Edmen Shahbazyan in his debut Cage Classics column.

6 min · Jun 9