Jim Norton and Matt Serra kick off 2026 with a pair of rising contenders who have their sights set on big years ahead.

First, light heavyweight Modestas Bukauskas joins the show to talk about the momentum he’s built during his recent run and what’s at stake as he prepares for a crucial matchup against Nikita Krylov at UFC 324. Modestas breaks down the work he’s putting in, provides an update on the Tom Aspinall eye injury holding back his close friend and training partner before circling back to why this fight vs. 13th-ranked Krylov is huge for Modestas as he eyes a spot in the 205-pound rankings.

Later, middleweight knockout artist Ateba Gautier stops by to discuss his fast start in the UFC, his journey from Cameroon to England, and the mindset shift that followed his lone professional loss. Gautier reflects on his Combat Sambo roots and how he’s continuing to sharpen his tools ahead of his first fight of 2026 at UFC 324.

Already a little stir-crazy for live UFC action, Jim and Matt also jump the gun with an early look at UFC 324 — even though the 2026 Paramount+ kickoff is still 19 days away… but who’s counting?

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