Evolution has proposed suspending its dividend for 2025, a sharp departure from its long‑standing policy of distributing half of its annual profits to shareholders. The move, announced by the company’s board, comes as the live‑casino supplier faces slowing growth, rising competitive pressures and an ongoing legal dispute.
Shift Signals Possible Strategic Pivot
Evolution has been viewed as a reliable dividend payer, returning EUR 2.80 ($3.24) per share to investors last year. The decision to halt payouts has raised speculation about the company’s next steps. Some analysts say Evolution may be preparing for acquisitions or considering share buybacks, which can be a more tax‑efficient way to return value to investors.
In a statement, the board said a cash dividend “is not the best way to achieve long‑term shareholder value at present.”
The timing has drawn attention. While Evolution remains profitable, revenue dipped slightly in the final quarter of 2025 and profit declined more sharply from the prior year. The company is not viewed as being in financial distress, but its rapid expansion phase has cooled.
Evolution has spent recent years building new studios and entering additional markets, including a push into Latin America. Retaining earnings could give the company more flexibility as it continues to scale.
Legal and Market Pressures Add Uncertainty
The dividend suspension has also fueled speculation about other potential pressures. Evolution is currently involved in a legal dispute with Black Cube over allegations that its games may have been accessible in restricted markets. The financial impact remains unclear, adding another variable to the company’s capital‑allocation decisions.
Despite the uncertainty, management has expressed confidence in the company’s long‑term outlook. CEO Martin Carlesund has described 2025 as a strong year overall, citing continued product releases and global expansion.
For investors, the shift means placing greater trust in Evolution’s future growth rather than relying on near‑term dividend returns.
Venue: The O2 Arena, London, England Prelims Start Time: 1:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM GMT (main card at 4:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM GMT) Broadcast: Prelims and main card on Paramount+ (US); regionally adjusted equivalents. Weight Class: Heavyweight (265 lbs) – Preliminary card bout.
This heavyweight prelim features undefeated Portuguese powerhouse Mario Pinto (fighting out of London) against short-notice Brazilian debutant Felipe Franco (“Negão”). Originally scheduled as Pinto vs. Mick Parkin, the bout flipped when Parkin withdrew due to injury. The card headlines Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy and is stacked with European talent, but this big-boy scrap brings legitimate knockout power, size disparity, and home-crowd energy for Pinto inside the O2.
Tale of the Tape
Mario Pinto (Portugal/England): 28 years old, 6’5”, 79” reach. Orthodox. Style: Athletic finisher with elite power, fluid movement, and improving grappling. Record: 11-0-0 (2-0 UFC).
Felipe Franco (Brazil): 25 years old, 6’1”, 76” reach. Orthodox. Style: Explosive striker/grappler with heavy hands and ground-and-pound. Record: 10-1-0 (UFC debut).
Pinto holds clear size, reach, and experience edges. Both made weight cleanly. Finishing rates are high for both (~70%+), with Pinto’s UFC wins coming via stoppage and Franco boasting dominant recent first-round finishes outside the Octagon.
Injury Report
No injuries reported for either fighter. Mick Parkin was removed from the original matchup due to injury (announced March 16, 2026), prompting Franco’s short-notice call-up (less than one month). Both camps have proceeded without disruption, and both cleared medicals. All updates from UFC, fighter social media, and media as of March 18, 2026 confirm normal preparations.
Fighter Matchups & Styles
Pinto is the rangier, more athletic specimen who mixes crisp striking at distance with opportunistic takedowns and ground control. He excels at conserving energy while landing heavy power shots or transitioning to dominant positions. Franco is the compact, explosive finisher who relies on raw power (overhands, kicks) and follows hurt opponents to the mat for devastating ground-and-pound or subs. He rarely initiates grappling but thrives once on top. The key clash is Pinto’s size/reach + Octagon IQ vs. Franco’s short-notice explosiveness and debut pressure. Pinto should control range and pace; Franco wins only with an early bomb or scramble.
Recent Form
Mario Pinto (11-fight win streak, 2-0 UFC with back-to-back stoppages):
Oct 11, 2025 – TKO (punches/ground strikes) Jhonata Diniz (R2, 4:10) – UFC Fight Night.
Mar 1, 2025 – KO (punch) Austen Lane (R2, 0:39) – UFC Fight Night (Performance of the Night).
Oct 2024 – KO Lucas Camacho (R1) – DWCS (contract win). Pinto has looked sharper and more composed in the UFC, mixing striking and wrestling effectively.
Felipe Franco (2-fight win streak since DWCS loss; UFC debut):
Feb 7, 2026 – SUB (RNC) Douglas Felipe Santos (R1, 4:07) – regional.
Dec 11, 2025 – KO (strikes) Kleberson Tavares (R1, 0:32) – regional.
Sep 9, 2025 – SUB (RNC) loss Freddy Vidal (R3) – DWCS. Franco has bounced back with quick finishes but faces a massive step-up in competition and weight on short notice.
Fight History Summary
Pinto turned pro in 2021, compiled 11 straight finishes or decisions (7 KO/TKO, 1 SUB, 3 DEC), earned DWCS honors, and is 2-0 in the UFC with stoppages. Never lost; trains at FightZone London. Franco turned pro with a 10-1 record (6 KO/TKO, 4 SUB). Only loss came on DWCS; teammate of Jailton Almeida. This is his Octagon debut and first true heavyweight test under UFC rules after short-notice replacement.
FIGHT ODDS
Mario Pinto – 750
Felipe Franco + 600
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 20, 2026
Venue: The O2 Arena, London, England Prelims Start Time: 1:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM GMT (main card at 4:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM GMT) Broadcast: Prelims and main card on Paramount+ (US); regionally adjusted equivalents. Weight Class: Middleweight (185 lbs) – Preliminary card bout.
This middleweight prelim pits high-upside Lithuanian debutant Mantas Kondratavicius against veteran Brazilian Antonio Trocoli (“Malvado”). The card headlines Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy and features strong European representation, but this matchup is a classic prospect-vs-veteran clash with massive finish potential and a clear favorite dynamic in front of a packed O2 crowd.
Tale of the Tape
Mantas Kondratavicius (Lithuania): 26 years old, 6’2”, ~78” reach. Style: Athletic finisher with striking power and improved grappling (100% finish rate across all wins). Record: 8-1-0.
Antonio Trocoli (Brazil): 35 years old, 6’5”, ~80”+ reach. Style: Tall, forward-pressure striker who transitions to grappling. Record: 12-6-0 (1 NC), 0-3 UFC.
Kondratavicius holds a clear youth, athleticism, and finishing edge; Trocoli has the height/reach advantage but has been finished in all three Octagon appearances.
Injury Report
No injuries reported for either fighter. Both have cleared medicals and are expected to compete at full strength. Kondratavicius’s camp has been smooth since his DWCS contract win, and Trocoli has no noted setbacks following his most recent fight in December 2025. All updates from UFC, fighter media, and reports as of March 18, 2026 confirm normal preparations.
Fighter Matchups & Styles
Kondratavicius is an explosive, well-rounded athlete who charges forward with power striking and has shown wrestling/grappling improvements after his lone career loss. He prepares for a “war” in every fight and has elite finishing instincts (six KO/TKO, two subs). Trocoli is the taller, rangier veteran who presses forward on the feet before looking to grapple, but he has looked vulnerable to early pressure and submissions in the UFC. The key clash is Kondratavicius’s athleticism/power vs. Trocoli’s length and experience. Kondratavicius should close distance quickly and overwhelm; Trocoli needs to use his reach and survive the first round to drag the fight into deeper waters where his veteran savvy might matter.
Recent Form
Mantas Kondratavicius (3-fight win streak, all first-round finishes):
Mar 14, 2025 – KO (punch) Michael Tchamou (R1) – Cage Warriors.
Feb 10, 2024 – SUB (armbar) Kirill Andreev (R1). Kondratavicius has looked dominant and explosive, with zero decisions in his win streak.
Antonio Trocoli (3-fight losing streak, all finishes):
Dec 6, 2025 – SUB (guillotine) Mansur Abdul-Malik (R1, 1:09) – UFC 323.
Nov 9, 2024 – SUB (guillotine) Tresean Gore (R1, 1:23).
Jun 22, 2024 – TKO (punches) Shara Magomedov (R3, 2:27). Trocoli has been stopped early in recent Octagon outings and enters on a clear slide.
Fight History Summary
Kondratavicius turned pro around 2022 and sits at 8-1 with only one early submission loss (2023). He has earned finishes in every win since, including strong regional and DWCS showings. This is his UFC debut after five years of professional experience. Trocoli turned pro in 2013, won on DWCS in 2019 (submission), and has 12 wins (mix of KO/TKO and subs) outside the UFC. However, his 0-3 Octagon record with quick finishes against him defines his recent trajectory. This is a must-win for the veteran.
FIGHT ODDS
Mantas Kondratavicius – 700
Antonio Trocoli + 575
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 20, 2026
* Zach Werenski (0-3—3) and Adam Fantilli (2-0—2) both put up multi-point performances in a Blue Jackets win that catapulted them into third in the Metropolitan Division.
* Nikita Kucherov moved within one point of Connor McDavid in the Art Ross race and Alex Lyon became the fifth goaltender in NHL history with a double-digit road winning streak as the top two teams in the Atlantic Division both collected wins Thursday.
* A five-game Friday features the No.1 seed in each conference in action – the Western Conference-leading Avalanche visit the Blackhawks while the Eastern Conference-leading Hurricanes face the Maple Leafs.
WERENSKI, FANTILLI HELP BLUE JACKETS BOUNCE BACK INTO PLAYOFF SPOT
Zach Werenski (0-3—3) and Adam Fantilli (2-0—2) both registered multi-point performances and helped the Blue Jackets (36-21-11, 83 points) push their point streak to 11 games (7-0-4) – the fifth-longest in franchise history – and move past the Islanders (39-25-5, 83 points) for third place in the Metropolitan Division. The only other day Columbus has been in a playoff spot at this stage of a season (1,093 GP) since 2019-20 was March 28, 2025.
* Werenski (20-52—72) registered his second career 50-assist and 70-point season and tied Artemi Panarin for the most such campaigns in Blue Jackets history for both categories. Both, Werenski and Panarin, achieved the feat in consecutive seasons.
* Fantilli’s first goal of the game was his 50th point of 2025-26 and made him the third Blue Jackets player to post multiple 20-goal seasons before his 22nd birthday, joining Rick Nash (2) and Pierre-Luc Dubois (2). His second of the night put him alongside Nash (12) as the only Columbus skaters with at least 10 career multi-goal games at age 21 or younger.
TOP TWO TEAMS IN THE ATLANTIC BOTH EARN WINS ON WESTERN ROAD TRIP
The Atlantic Division-leading Sabres (43-20-6, 92 points) and second-place Lightning (42-21-4, 88 points) both earned wins on their Western Conference road trips to continue their respective push towards a division title, highlighted by a shutout from Alex Lyon and yet another three-point performance from Nikita Kucherov.
* Lyon stopped all 23 shots he faced to help Buffalo improve to 9-1-0 over its past 10 games. The Sabres scored 11 consecutive road goals dating to their second goal in Pittsburgh on March 5 – they have had two longer runs in franchise history (13: Jan. 22 – Feb. 10, 2018 & 12: March 27 – April 9, 2000).
* Lyon earned his third shutout of the season and became the fifth goaltender in NHL history to record a 10-game road winning streak, joining Devan Dubnyk (11 GP in 2014-15), Evgeni Nabokov (11 GP in 2009-10 & 10 GP in 2007-08), Kevin Lankinen (10 GP in 2024-25) and Carey Price (10 GP in 2014-15). He also helped the Sabres earn consecutive shutouts for the third time in the past decade.
* Kucherov tallied 1-2—3 to factor on half of his club’s goals two days after his five-point outing, which improved his season totals to 38-76—114 (63 GP) and moved him within one point of Connor McDavid (37-78—115), who leads the NHL’s scoring race. The Lightning have now scored six or more goals in three straight road games – they’ve done that one other time in franchise history: Jan. 4-18, 2022 (3 GP).
* Kucherov recorded his fourth straight road game with at least three points. Three other players in the past 30 years have posted a run of that length: Sidney Crosby (4 GP in 2006-07), Jaromir Jagr (4 GP in 1996-97) and Mario Lemieux (4 GP in 1996-97). The Lightning forward has now recorded eight points over his last two road games (4-4—8) – the only time he has recorded more points over that span is Jan. 3-10, 2026 (3-6—9) and Nov. 4-6, 2023 (3-6—9).
RUSH TO THE PLAYOFFS CONTINUES IN THE EAST
Three other teams in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race earned pivotal wins on Thursday with the Bruins, Red Wings and Senators all collecting two points.
* Six different goal scorers helped the first Wild Card-seeded Bruins (38-23-8, 84 points) move into a tie in terms of standings points with the Canadiens (37-21-10, 84 points), who sit third in the Atlantic Division. Boston improved to 26-9-1 at home this season, which is the most such wins among all teams. They have five games remaining at TD Garden in 2025-26 and can hit the 30-win plateau at home for the fifth time in franchise history (most recently: 34 in 2022-23).
* After Montreal opened the scoring, Alex DeBrincat (1-2—3) factored on the next three goals and netted the game winner – his 100th goal with the club – to help the Red Wings (38-23-8, 84 points) tie the Canadiens and Bruins in terms of standings points in a tight race for third in the Atlantic Division. DeBrincat tied Sergei Fedorov (233 GP) as the sixth-fastest player in Red Wings history to score 100 goals with the franchise.
* The Senators tallied two tying goals against the Islanders before Brady Tkachuk (1-0—1) sealed the comeback win with 13 seconds left in regulation and kept Ottawa (35-24-9, 79 points) in the hunt for a postseason spot as the second-ranked team below the playoff line in the Eastern Conference. Tkachuk’s winner was the seventh-latest go-ahead goal in franchise history.
FORSBERG HITS 30, PREDATORS MOVE TO THE CUSP OF A PLAYOFF POSITION
Filip Forsberg (1-2—3) factored on all three of his team’s goals to reach the 30-goal mark and Steven Stamkos (0-1—1) assisted on the game winner to help the Predators improve to 31-28-9 (71 points). Nashville moved within one point of the final Wild Card spot in the Western Conference, currently held by Los Angeles (28-24-16, 72 points). Notably, the Mammoth (36-27-6, 78 points) picked up a shutout win and strengthened their grip on the first Wild Card spot – a position they’ve held for 27 straight days.
* Stamkosfactored on the game-winning goal for the 16th time this season, which matched Jack Eichel and Zach Werenski for the second most among all players. Only Nikita Kucherov (18) has more.
SCHAEFER HITS 50 POINTS IN #NHLSTATS: LIVE UPDATES Matthew Schaefer scoring was one of the many notes found in Thursday’s #NHLStats: Live Updates. Schaefer became the second 18-year-old defenseman in NHL history to record 50 points in a season, following Phil Housley (57 in 1982-83) and just the fourth Islanders rookie blueliner to reach that plateau in a campaign. Click here for more on Schaefer’s historic rookie season.
CONFERENCE LEADERS HIT THE ICE DURING FIVE-GAME FRIDAY
The top team in each conference hits the ice Friday when the Western Conference-leading Avalanche visit the Blackhawks while the Eastern Conference-leading Hurricanes face off against the Maple Leafs. Colorado is closing in on the 100-point mark and punching its ticket to the postseason, but with less than one month until the playoffs begin (April 18) and 83% of the schedule complete, no playoff berths, standings seeds or division/conference titles have been clinched. The Capitals were the first team to clinch a playoff berth last season on March 20, 2025 – exactly one year ago today.
* After 116 consecutive game days, Colorado’s perch atop the NHL standings is in jeopardy as division-rival Dallas now sits two points back of the No. 1 seed. The Avalanche (44-13-10, 98 points) will look to regain some ground on the Stars with a win Friday and become the first team to hit 100 standings points this season, while Cale Makar (136-461—497 in 462 GP) has his sights on the 500-point milestone. Colorado has been the League’s first team to 100 points three times prior (2021-22, 2000-01 & 1996-97) – the club went on to win the Stanley Cup in both 2022 and 2001 but fell to the eventual Stanley Cup-champion Red Wings in the 1997 Western Conference Final.
* Sebastian Aho has helped Carolina hold onto first place in the Eastern Conference for 20 consecutive days with a team-leading 24-45—69 (68 GP). He can become the fourth player in Hurricanes/Whalers history to record three straight 70-point campaigns, following Ron Francis (9 from 1982-83 – 1990-91), Eric Staal (7 from 2005-06 – 2011-12) and Blaine Stoughton (4 from 1979-80 – 1982-83).
Venue: The O2 Arena, London, England Prelims Start Time: 1:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM GMT (main card at 4:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM GMT) Broadcast: Prelims and main card on Paramount+ (US); regionally adjusted equivalents. Weight Class: Heavyweight (265 lbs) – Preliminary card bout.
This heavyweight prelim scrap pits London-based veteran Louie Sutherland (“The Vanilla Gorilla”) against rising Australian finisher and City Kickboxing product Brando Peričić (“The Balkan Bear”). The card headlines Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy and is stacked with European and international talent, but this big-boy matchup brings legitimate knockout potential and a classic size/reach clash in front of a raucous home crowd for Sutherland.
Tale of the Tape
Louie Sutherland (Scotland/England): 32 years old, 6’3”, 76” reach. Style: Explosive power striker with rugby background (80% of wins by KO/TKO). Record: 10-4-0 (UFC 0-1).
Brando Peričić (Australia): 31 years old, 6’5”, 79.5” reach. Style: Wrestler base with elite finishing power (100% career finish rate; 4 KO/TKO, 1 sub). Record: 5-1-0 (UFC 1-0).
Both made weight cleanly. Peričić holds a clear size/reach advantage and striking accuracy edge (59%), while Sutherland’s takedown defense showed early vulnerability in his UFC debut.
Injury Report
No injuries reported for either fighter. Both have cleared medicals and are expected to compete at full strength. Sutherland’s only recent setback was a canceled bout vs. Justin Tafa (opponent illness, September 2025); Peričić’s camp has been uninterrupted since his UFC debut. All updates from UFC, fighter social media, and media confirm normal preparations as of March 18, 2026.
Fighter Matchups & Styles
Sutherland brings rugby-bred power, forward pressure, and finishing ability (8 KO/TKO wins). He excels at closing distance and landing heavy shots but showed submission vulnerability early in his UFC debut. Peričić is the taller, rangier athlete with a wrestler foundation (City Kickboxing under Eugene Bareman) and blistering first-round finishing rate (five of six career wins in Round 1). He mixes crisp striking with ground-and-pound or subs. The key clash is Peričić’s length, wrestling entries, and power vs. Sutherland’s experience and home-crowd energy. Peričić wins if he uses range and early explosiveness; Sutherland needs to survive the first round and impose pressure.
Recent Form
Louie Sutherland (4-1 in last 5; 0-1 UFC):
Oct 25, 2025 – SUB (heel hook) Valter Walker (R1, 1:24) – UFC 321 (debut loss; Walker fought with a broken leg).
Jun 15, 2025 – TKO (punches) Luke Newland (R1).
Apr 13, 2025 – UD Matusalém dos Santos (3 rounds).
Feb 16, 2025 – TKO (punches) Luis Carlos de Brito (R1). Sutherland dominated regionally with finishes but was caught early in the Octagon.
Brando Peričić (4-1 in last 5; 1-0 UFC, 3-fight win streak):
Nov 2, 2024 – TKO (ground & pound) Orion Kenny (R1, 1:08).
Oct 25, 2024 – TKO (strikes) Tumanako Phillips (R1, 0:17).
May 4, 2024 – SUB (RNC) loss Randall Rayment (R2). Peričić has maintained a 100% finishing rate with blinding early power.
Fight History Summary
Sutherland turned pro with strong regional runs (Levels Fight League, etc.), compiling 10-3 pre-UFC with eight finishes. UFC debut ended in quick submission. Career: 8 KO/TKO, 2 decisions; never decisioned to a loss pre-UFC. Peričić debuted pro in 2019, went 4-1 outside UFC (only loss a sub) before a dominant UFC debut stoppage. Five first-round finishes in career; longest fight just 6:36. This is his second Octagon appearance.
FIGHT ODDS
Louie Sutherland + 220
Brando Pericic – 270
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 20, 2026
* For the first time, Gen Z accounts for nearly 60% of NHL players (59% born 1997-2012; 41% Millennials, born 1981-1996).
* Entering March 20, a total of 18 players have played as a teenager this season, including 10 who were NHL regulars (min. 30 GP). Eleven of those 18 players will still be teenagers when the 2025-26 season ends, and five will still be teenagers when the 2026-27 campaign begins (Matthew Schaefer, Ben Kindel, Brady Martin, Michael Misa and Braden Cootes).
* Three players selected in last year’s draft were NHL regulars this season (Matthew Schaefer, Ben Kindel and Michael Misa).
* Entering March 20, Gen Z players lead 18 teams in points. Anaheim, Chicago and San Jose are all topped by a player who will be age 22 or younger at the end of the season.
* Entering March 20, Gen Z players lead 19 teams in goals. Anaheim, Chicago, Dallas and San Jose are all topped by a player who will be age 22 or younger at the end of the season.
* Entering March 20, Gen Z accounts for approximately two-thirds of the League’s top point scorers (67%; 23 of 34 players with 65+ points) andtop goal scorers (64%; 16 of 25 players with 30+ goals).
https://flo.uri.sh/visualisation/28159888/embed
THE ROOKIE CLASS
Matthew Schaefer (age 18), New York Islanders
* Unphased by facing Sidney Crosby (active points leader, 2x NHL MVP), Alex Ovechkin (all-time goals leader; 3x NHL MVP) and Connor McDavid (5x scoring leader, 3x NHL MVP) within the first week of his NHL career, Schaefer got off to a record-setting start and never looked back during his historic season – which includes a long list of achievements detailed on this fact sheet. The No. 1 pick in the NHL Draft less than one year ago, Schaefer has accumulated the most goals ever by an 18-year-old defenseman and has more records within reach this season – and has the Islanders in the hunt for a playoff spot. Schaefer regularly honors his mom, Jennifer, who passed away from cancer in February 2024 and since entering the NHL has signed on as a Hockey Fights Cancer champion while continuing his efforts to support kids who have lost loved ones.
* The second-youngest player in the NHL this season, Kindel hasthemost goals by a Penguins rookie in his lifetime (and is likely to be able to make the same claim for points, needing two to post the club’s highest such total since 2006-07). Kindel’s four game-winning goals are already among the most in League history by an 18-year-old. The No. 11 pick from the 2025 NHL Draft, Kindel will celebrate his 19th birthday on April 19, which will be the second day of the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs. Both his parents played professional soccer and for Canadian national teams.
Michael Misa (age 19), San Jose Sharks
* One of the youngest goal scorers in franchise history, the No. 2 pick from the 2025 NHL Draft is part of a youthful Sharks roster. He represented Canada at the World Junior Championship this season and missed some time due to injury but otherwise has been an NHL regular in 2025-26. His brother, Luke, is an NHL prospect who played at Penn State University this season alongside Gavin McKenna, the potential No. 1 pick in June.
Sam Dickinson (age 19), San Jose Sharks
* The second-youngest full-time NHL defenseman this season behind Matthew Schaefer, Dickinson was the No. 11 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft – the highest defenseman selected by the Sharks in more than 25 years. He has the second-most games played and points by a teenage defenseman in franchise history, behind Marc-Edouard Vlasic who tallied 3-21—24 in 76 games at that age – embarking on what would become a 19-season career with the club. He was a goalie when he started playing hockey.
Beckett Sennecke (age 20), Anaheim Ducks
* After being “shocked” when his name was called with the No. 3 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft, Sennecke is making the most of the opportunity during his first NHL campaign – on the verge of setting franchise rookie records for assists and points. Sennecke, who turned 20 in January, has already reached a number of milestones including becoming the fastest Ducks rookie to 50 points and second-youngest with a hat trick, as well as contributing to his team’s knack for late-game heroics. He can become the third Ducks player to lead all NHL rookies in goals (Bobby Ryan and PaulKariya) and second to top in points (Ryan).
Ivan Demidov (age 20), Montreal Canadiens
* After making his NHL and Stanley Cup Playoffs debuts last season, Demidov has contributed regularly throughout his first full NHL campaign – posting Montreal’s highest point total by a rookie forward in more than 20 years (and among the highest counts overall in the franchise’s 108-season history). The No. 5 pick in the 2024 NHL Draft is within striking distance of the highest assist total by a rookie forward in franchise history. One season after teammate Lane Hutsonclaimed the Calder Trophy as the NHL’s Rookie of the Year, Demidov can join him as the second straight Canadiens player to lead all NHL rookies in assists or points (the last team to do that was VAN from 2018-19 to 2019-20). Teammate Oliver Kapanen (age 22) has a chance to finish the season as the NHL rookie goals leader.
Zeev Buium (age 20), Vancouver Canucks
* The youngest American to play full-time in the NHL this season, Buium ranks among the NHL leaders for assists and points by a rookie defenseman. After making his NHL debut during the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs with the Minnesota Wild, Buium was a focal point of a blockbuster trade in December 2025 and made an immediate impact with his new club in Vancouver. With an athletic pedigree, Buium is a champion at both the NCAA and World Junior levels and in 2024-25 was a finalist for the Hobey Baker Award and a First Team All-American before turning pro. He is among a small group of active California-born defensemen in the NHL and got his start in roller hockey before his parents relocated the family to support the hockey dreams of Zeev and his brother, Shai (a prospect with the Detroit Red Wings).
* The second-youngest non-rookie in the NHL behind Macklin Celebrini, Bedard is on the verge of becoming the highest-scoring player before age 21 in the 99-season history of his franchise. As of March 20, he needs two points and five goals to overtake Eddie Olczyk (49-80—129 in 149 GP) on both lists after already passing him for assists. The No. 1 pick in the 2023 NHL Draft has led Chicago in assists and points during each of his three NHL seasons and is on pace to become the youngest 30-goal scorer for the club since Jonathan Toews in 2008-09.
Did You Know?Macklin Celebrini and Connor Bedard both hail from North Vancouver, are friends away from the rink and train together during the offseason.
Leo Carlsson (age 21), Anaheim Ducks
* Selected with the No. 2 pick in 2023, Carlsson ranks among the NHL leaders from that draft class and has established a number of benchmarks for the Ducks including the most goals (49), assists (66) and points (115) before age 21. He has increased his output in all three of those categories in each of his three NHL seasons and could top Anaheim in points for the first time in 2025-26. Carlsson, who has stuttered his entire life, has partnered with an organization to support young people who stutter. The youngest full-time Swedish forward in the NHL, Carlsson was featured in the NHL My World series, played at the 4 Nations Face-Off and was named to the Olympic roster but missed the tournament due to injury.
THIS AND THAT
* Lane Hutson (MTL) turned 22 in February and recently became the first Canadiens defenseman to post consecutive 60-point seasons since ChrisChelios from 1987-88 to 1988-89. He is one of three members of his family to play in the NHL this season, along with brothers Quinn (age 24; EDM) and Cole Hutson (age 19; WSH) – who achieved a rare feat alongside Alex Ovechkin during his League debut March 18.
* Of 147 NHL Olympic participants, nearly half were Gen Z (46%; 68 of 147) and five were age 21 or younger when the tournament began (Macklin Celebrini, Dalibor Dvorsky, Oscar Fisker Molgaard, Juraj Slafkovský and Simon Nemec). Celebrini, Dvorsky and Slafkovský all had standout performances.
* If the Islanders and Penguins both make the playoffs and meet on opening night (April 18), it could produce the second instance in Stanley Cup Playoffs history of two 18-year-olds going head-to-head (MatthewSchaefer and BenKindel, who turns 19 on April 19). To date, the only such meetings were during the 1984 Division Semifinals (DanQuinn of CGY vs. CamNeely of VAN; 3 GP).
Venue: The O2 Arena, London, England Prelims Start Time: 1:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM GMT (main card at 4:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM GMT) Broadcast: Prelims and main card on Paramount+ (US); regionally adjusted equivalents. Weight Class: Featherweight (145 lbs) – Preliminary card bout (fight 7 of 14).
This is a classic veteran-vs-prospect featherweight clash pitting London native Nathaniel Wood (“The Last Kingsman”) against undefeated European standout and UFC debutant Losene Keita (“Black Panther”). The card is headlined by Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy and loaded with European talent, but this matchup carries massive home-crowd energy and potential for a highlight-reel finish or gritty decision.
Tale of the Tape
Nathaniel Wood (England): 32 years old, 5’6”, 69” reach. Orthodox. Style: Well-rounded pressure striker with strong BJJ (black belt) and wrestling. Record: 22-6-0.
Losene Keita (Belgium, born Guinea): 28 years old, 5’8”–5’9”, ~72” reach. Orthodox. Style: Explosive power striker (63% KO rate). Record: 16-1-0.
Finishing rates favor Keita heavily early, but Wood has never been finished in his last 10+ fights and thrives in deep waters. Both made weight cleanly for this bout.
Injury Report
No injuries reported for either fighter. Both cleared medicals and are fully expected to compete. Keita’s only prior UFC-related issue was a weight miss (3 lbs over) for his originally scheduled debut vs. Patricio Pitbull in September 2025 (fight canceled); this was explicitly not injury-related. Wood has had no camp disruptions. All updates from fighter social media, UFC, and media as of March 18, 2026 confirm normal preparations.
Fighter Matchups & Styles
Wood is the shorter, stockier veteran who excels at forward pressure, mixing crisp boxing, leg kicks, and opportunistic grappling (5 career subs, high takedown accuracy). His cardio and Octagon IQ allow him to push fights into later rounds where he outvolumes opponents. Keita is the taller, rangier knockout artist with blinding hand speed and legitimate one-punch power (10 KO/TKO wins, 5 first-round finishes). He’s a purple-belt BJJ practitioner but has zero submission wins, relying almost entirely on striking. The key matchup is Wood’s pressure and grappling vs. Keita’s reach/power and debut jitters. Wood’s home-crowd energy and experience edge should help him close distance and neutralize early bombs; Keita wins if he keeps range and lands clean early.
Recent Form
Nathaniel Wood (3-fight UFC win streak, 6-1 in last 7 Octagon appearances):
Oct 25, 2025 – UD Jose Delgado (3 rounds, UFC 321).
Mar 22, 2025 – UD Morgan Charrière (3 rounds).
Jul 27, 2024 – UD Daniel Pineda (3 rounds, UFC 304). Wood has evolved into a durable, high-volume decision machine with elite pace. He absorbs strikes well (4.32 per minute) and lands at 5.74 SLpM.
Losene Keita (5-fight win streak; UFC debut):
Dec 28, 2024 – KO (punches) Ronald Paradeiser (R2, Oktagon 65).
Jul 20, 2024 – KO Predrag Bogdanovic (R2). Keita dominated Oktagon as a double champion (plus WFL title) with explosive finishes. This is his first UFC fight after the weight-miss debacle; the step-up in competition and first true 145 lb cut under UFC rules are the unknowns.
Fight History Summary
Wood turned pro in 2013, won Cage Warriors title, and has 15+ UFC fights since 2018 debut. He’s 8-5 in the Octagon overall but has won 6 of his last 7 at featherweight. Never stopped since early career; mixes 8 KOs, 5 subs, and 9 decisions. Keita turned pro in 2019, went 16-1 outside UFC (only loss a 2023 leg-injury TKO). Double champ in Europe with 10 finishes. This is his Octagon debut and first fight since the canceled Pitbull bout.
FIGHT ODDS
Nathaniel Wood + 190
Losene Keita – 250
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 20, 2026
Venue: The O2 Arena, London, England Prelims Start Time: 1:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM GMT (main card at 4:00 PM ET / 8:00 PM GMT) Broadcast: Prelims on Paramount+ (US); main card on ESPN+ or equivalent regionally. Weight Class: Lightweight (155 lbs) – Preliminary card bout (fight 8 of 14 on the card).
This is a high-stakes prelim lightweight scrap featuring Welsh veteran Mason Jones (“The Dragon”) against undefeated French prospect Axel Sola. The card headlines Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy and is packed with European talent, but Jones vs. Sola stands out as a potential Fight of the Night candidate due to contrasting styles and finishing power.
Tale of the Tape
Mason Jones (Wales): 30 years old, 5’10”, 74” reach, 17-2-0 (1 NC). Fighting out of Blaenavon. Style: Well-rounded MMA (strong wrestling/grappling base + volume striking).
Axel Sola (France): 28 years old, 5’11”–6’2” (sources vary slightly), 74” reach. Southpaw/karate base. Style: Striker with knockout power. Record: 11-0-1.
Finishing rates are nearly identical (~65% for Jones, ~64% for Sola). Both men cut to 155 lbs here; Sola’s most recent Octagon appearance was at welterweight.
Injury Report
No injuries reported for either fighter. Both have cleared medicals and are expected to make weight without issue. Training camps have proceeded normally according to all available previews and fighter social media updates as of March 18, 2026.
Fighter Matchups & Styles
Jones brings elite cardio, grappling IQ, and pressure. He excels at mixing takedowns with ground-and-pound (notably vicious elbows) and has never been finished. Sola is a dangerous karate-based striker with legitimate one-punch KO power and a 55% TKO rate. The key clash is Jones’ wrestling/pace vs. Sola’s power and southpaw striking. Jones is expected to close distance, drag fights into the later rounds, and neutralize Sola’s early power with volume and grappling.
Recent Form
Mason Jones (6-fight win streak, 3-0-1 NC in last 4 UFC appearances):
Sep 6, 2025 – TKO (elbows) Bolaji Oki (R2, 3:18) – Fight of the Night, UFC Paris.
May 3, 2025 – UD Jeremy Stephens (3 rounds).
Jul 25, 2024 – UD Michael Pagani (Cage Warriors). Jones looked sharper and more durable on his UFC return than in his initial 2021–2022 stint (where he went 1-2 with an NC). His cardio and chin have held up against high-level opposition.
Axel Sola (6-fight win streak after one draw; 1-0 UFC):
Sep 6, 2025 – TKO (punches/body shot) Rhys McKee (R3, 2:02) – UFC Paris welterweight debut.
Jun 14, 2025 – UD Ghiles Oudelha (5 rounds, Ares FC).
Jan 18, 2025 – TKO Lucas Caio (R2, Ares FC). Sola is a finisher (6 TKOs, 1 sub) but this is his first fight at lightweight in the UFC after a short-notice welterweight appearance. The weight cut and step up in competition speed are the biggest question marks.
Fight History Summary
Jones turned pro in 2017 and dominated Cage Warriors (two-division champ). Early UFC run (2021–2022) was rocky (losses to Mike Davis and Ľudovít Klein), but post-Cage Warriors resurgence has been dominant. Never lost by stoppage; 8 KO/TKO, 3 subs, 6 decisions. Sola debuted pro in 2021 via Brave CF, then became an Ares FC standout. Undefeated except for one majority draw. Heavy emphasis on striking finishes; only one submission win. This is his second Octagon appearance and lightweight UFC debut.
FIGHT ODDS
Mason Jones – 120
Axel Sola + 100
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, March 20, 2026
NEW YORK – The Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) and the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) announced today that they have reached a tentative agreement on a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), pending ratification by the players and the league’s Board of Governors.
The new seven-year CBA, which will commence with the 2026 season and run through 2032, represents one of the most transformational labor agreements ever reached in major professional sports.
“This Collective Bargaining Agreement represents a defining moment in the WNBA’s 30-year history and all of women’s professional sports,” said WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Since its inception, the WNBA has been shaped by extraordinary athletes who believed in the league’s future. The agreement is a testament to that belief and to the tremendous progress we have achieved together.”
“Over these past months, this group showed exactly who they are, prepared, relentless, and united when it mattered most, with a clear understanding that their value drives this business and when players win, the league wins,” said WNBPA Executive Director Terri Carmichael Jackson. “This agreement delivers what players set out to do from the beginning, transforming the economics of this league. It marks a new era led by players who know their power and chose to use it.”
“We’ve always believed that as this league grows, the players who power it must grow with it, and we’re proud to see that belief shared,” said WNBPA President and 10-Time All-Star Nneka Ogwumike. “We love this game enough to push for what it can become, not just for ourselves, but for those who built this league and those who will carry it forward. This agreement reflects that shared commitment, with players owning their value and future alongside a league growing stronger because of it.”
The 2026 CBA establishes the first comprehensive revenue-sharing model in women’s professional sports history. This groundbreaking model provides unlimited upside for players as league and team revenues continue to grow.
The new system will result in significant increases in player compensation, with the league projecting more than $1 billion in player salaries and benefits over the seven-year agreement. The salary cap for the 2026 season will be set at $7.0 million and will adjust annually based on league and team revenue growth.
The league’s top players will gain the ability to sign the first multi-million-dollar contracts in WNBA history. Maximum-contract players will earn a salary of $1.4 million in 2026 that is expected to grow to more than $2.4 million by 2032, based on current financial projections. The league’s average salary is expected to be $583,000 in 2026 and increase to over $1 million by 2032. Minimum salaries will range from $270,000 to $300,000 in 2026 (based on years of service) and will range from $340,000 to $380,000 by 2032.
The agreement also establishes a new rookie contract scale that significantly increases salaries for top draft picks, including the No. 1 overall pick in 2026 projected to earn $500,000.
All existing rookie-scale contracts will also be adjusted upward, delivering meaningful pay increases for players at every stage of their careers. The agreement also creates an expedited pathway to maximum-level contracts for players on rookie deals who earn MVP or All-WNBA First or Second Team honors. In addition, starting in 2027, players with seven or more years of service cannot be designated as Core Players.
The deal includes significant investments in the overall player experience, including enhanced standards for team facilities, expanded team staffing requirements, fully codified league-wide charter air travel, first-class travel accommodations, and significantly increased performance bonuses for individual award winners and playoff and Finals participants. It also includes substantial enhancements for retirees and retirement planning, with expanded team contributions to player 401(k) accounts, enhanced benefits for players with children or who are family planning, and recognition payments for WNBA veterans and retired players based on years of service.
The deal also includes an increased minimum roster size of 12 players plus two more roster spots for developmental players, and salary cap exceptions for injured or pregnant players. Fans will also experience more WNBA basketball through an increase of up to 50 games in 2027 and 2028, and up to 52 games in 2029 through 2032.
Venue Location: Turf Paradise, 1501 West Bell Road, Phoenix, Arizona 85023.
Scheduled Post Time for Race 8: 5:51 PM PT (Arizona time; featured race on Super Saturday stakes program).
Expected Weather Conditions: Sunny and mild with highs in the mid-70s°F (around 74–78°F), lows near 52–56°F, light winds (5–10 mph), and 0% chance of precipitation. Perfect dry conditions for dirt racing with no impact on the surface.
Track Conditions: Main dirt track, expected fast. Turf Paradise’s dirt typically plays fair and speed-favoring in dry weather, rewarding early tactical speed and stalkers over the six-furlong sprint distance. No “off” track anticipated.
Race Overview: The $50,000 Phoenix Gold Cup Handicap is a six-furlong dirt sprint for three-year-olds and upward. Field of 10 with no scratches. This traditional stakes draws a deep, speed-laden field of local standouts and sharp California shippers. Weights range 105–124 lbs. Morning-line odds reflect proven sprint form and connections, with multiple early-speed types promising a fast pace on the fast dirt.
Full Field Analysis (by Post Position)
Post 1 – Neiman (KY) (Munnings – Tizacity by Tizway) Jockey: Guillermo Rodriguez | Trainer: Justin R. Evans | ML: 4/1 | Weight: 124 lbs Munnings speed influences suit the sprint. Evans is a sharp local conditioner; Rodriguez knows the track well. HRN speed figure of 128 (field-high) signals peak recent form. Forward runner who can wire or press; live contender from the rail with tactical versatility.
Post 2 – Sawasdee (CA) (Desert Code – Scary Fast by Congaree) Jockey: Glenn W. Corbett | Trainer: Isaiah Ortiz | ML: 10/1 | Weight: 119 lbs Desert Code pedigree excels on dirt sprints. Ortiz conditions consistent types; Corbett is a Turf Paradise veteran. HRN figure 115 reflects steady efforts. Mid-pack stalker; live longshot at square odds with local experience.
Post 3 – Augusta Melody (KY) (Speightstown – Tar Heel Mom by Flatter) Jockey: Geovanni Franco | Trainer: Robertino Diodoro | ML: 7/2 | Weight: 124 lbs Speightstown bloodlines provide proven sprint class. Diodoro is a high-percentage local star with excellent Turf Paradise stats; Franco rides regularly here. HRN figure 120 shows sharp recent placings. Professional closer who rates kindly; one of the top choices on connections and form.
Post 4 – Diamond Rim (KY) (Not This Time – Nurse Donna by Vindication) Jockey: Orlando Mojica | Trainer: Isaiah Ortiz | ML: 12/1 | Weight: 118 lbs Not This Time adds versatility. Ortiz doubles up; Mojica is a top local rider. HRN figure 112 indicates competitive recent efforts. Tactical speed from mid-pack; live exotic value play at a price.
Post 5 – Mission Beach (KY) (Curlin – Stoweshoe by Flatter) Jockey: Manuel Americano | Trainer: Jose Silva, Jr. | ML: 9/2 | Weight: 123 lbs Curlin stamina with sprint adaptability. Silva Jr. knows the surface; Americano is reliable locally. HRN figure 124 (second-highest) points to strong recent dirt sprints. Stalking/pressing style fits perfectly; major contender with upside.
Post 6 – Knockout Guy (CA) (Ministers Wild Cat – Knockout Bertie by Distorted Humor) Jockey: Talliyah Timentwa | Trainer: Johnathon Feron | ML: 50/1 | Weight: 105 lbs Lower-profile connections and light weight. Feron and Timentwa team is capable but modest. HRN figure 83 is the lowest; longshot needing pace meltdown for any chance. Pure exotic filler.
Post 7 – Departure (KY) (Run Away and Hide – Sheza Rounder by Star Dabbler) Jockey: Jose Mariano Asencio | Trainer: Manuel Ortiz, Sr. | ML: 8/1 | Weight: 120 lbs Run Away and Hide speed suits sprints. Ortiz Sr. ships in capable runners; Asencio knows the track. HRN figure 123 reflects solid recent form. Forward runner who can challenge early; live at a square price.
Post 8 – See Through It (CA) (Curlin to Mischief – Crystal House by Chester House) Jockey: Vicente Del-Cid | Trainer: Peter Miller | ML: 6/1 | Weight: 120 lbs Equipment: Blinkers on (key positive change for focus). Curlin to Mischief pedigree works on dirt; Miller is a proven shipper; Del-Cid is capable. HRN figure 115 with recent consistency. Blinkers and stalking style make him dangerous; solid mid-tier contender.
Post 9 – Distant Fleet (CA) (Stay Thirsty – Kowboy’s Gigi by Kodiak Kowboy) Jockey: Karlo Lopez | Trainer: Raymond G. Valerio | ML: 15/1 | Weight: 116 lbs Stay Thirsty adds class. Valerio and Lopez team is lower-profile but local. HRN figure 115 shows competitive efforts. Outside post manageable; longshot exotic play with late kick potential.
Post 10 – Book Smart (CA) (Stanford – Magic Lily by With Distinction) Jockey: Abel Lezcano | Trainer: Robert B. Hess, Jr. | ML: 3/1 | Weight: 124 lbs Stanford speed with proven sprint wins. Hess ships in sharp from California; Lezcano is a top rider. HRN figure 104 but strong shipper profile and multiple recent stakes placings. Top-weight professional who can rate or press; morning-line favorite and the one to beat on class.
Summary & Key Angles
Favorites Edge: Book Smart (post 10, 3/1) is the sharp California shipper to beat. Augusta Melody (post 3, 7/2) brings Diodoro firepower and a 120 figure; Neiman (4/1) and Mission Beach (9/2) are right there with elite recent figs.
Value Plays: See Through It (6/1, blinkers on) and Departure (8/1) offer win/place appeal; Diamond Rim and Sawasdee for exotics at bigger prices.
Pace Scenario: Plenty of early speed signed on (Neiman, Departure, Book Smart, Mission Beach); expect a fast, contested pace that sets up for stalkers/closers (favoring posts 3, 5, 8, 10).
Betting Strategy Angle: Win/place on Book Smart or Augusta Melody; exactas and trifectas keying the top three (Book Smart–Augusta Melody–Mission Beach or Neiman) with See Through It underneath. Strong play in daily doubles and pick threes.
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