UFC star praised for Viking potential, Rodolfo Bellato talks upkick KO, Conor McGregor and others embrace the Father's Day Spirit: MMA News Roundup

Welcome to today's edition of Sportskeeda MMA News Roundup. Hollywood star Gerard Butler believes a UFC fighter has the traits of a Viking warrior. Rodolfo Bellato addresses fan backlash after an illegal upkick ended his bout in chaos. Meanwhile, several UFC fighters celebrated Father's Day. Let's break it all down:

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Gerard Butler spots Viking spirit in UFC star

Gerard Butler opened up about wanting to cast a real-life UFC fighter as a Viking raider for a future project. The Hollywood star was promoting his live-action adaptation of How to Train Your Dragon, where he reprises his role as Stoick the Vast.

During a playful interview on UFC’s YouTube channel with UFC welterweight Stephen Thompson, Butler praised the physical intensity and grit UFC athletes bring. He compared it to the dragon duels in the movie.

The Scottish actor even hinted that one particular fighter had the perfect look and aura to play a Viking warlord. He said:

"This movie is full of heartstoppping action. I guess it’s like you guys when you step in the octagon, ‘Who am I fighting?’ because these dragons all have different capabilities. You know you’d [Stephen Thompson] make a great Viking. I have to get you on Berk''

Check out Gerard Butler's comments below:

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Rodolfo Bellato breaks silence after UFC Atlanta controversy

Rodolfo Bellato's bout at UFC Atlanta took an ugly turn when an illegal upkick from Paul Craig brought an abrupt end to an exciting first round. Fans accused Bellato of exaggerating the impact, questioning whether he was truly injured or just selling it.

In an emotional Instagram post, the Brazilian light heavyweight shut down any talk of acting. He wrote:

"God knows about all things! To everyone cheering for me, I'm in good health and will be back soon. Thank you so much! And I saw some things on the internet, saying I was an actor there and stuff.. the moment I was on the ground, I didn't expect to get kicked in the face [illegally].. it was a strong kick, when I looked at the judge to complain, my whole body began to tingle and my vision disappeared.. after that i dont remember anything."

He added:

"Anyone who's known me the longest knows I would NEVER do this, I've never run from war. I hit 2x in less than 30 days, 2 trips in a row. Why would I fake something after all I been through and on top of that winning the first round? In the end ... I thank all the real ones for the positive messages. God is in charge!"

Check out his Instagram post below:

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UFC stars celebrate Father's Day

UFC stars got in the spirit of Father's Day and took to social media to make heartfelt posts about their roles as dads or pay tributes to the men who raised them.

Conor McGregor posted a thankful message to the fathers who make a "real effort" for their families. His partner, Dee Devlin, replied by calling him their world and praising his love for their children.

Alex Pereira, true to form, celebrated the day by training with his sons. Meanwhile, Henry Cejudo also chimed in with a message, acknowledging how fatherhood changed his entire outlook on life. He even sent a Father’s Day wish to United States President Donald Trump.

Check out some of the reactions below:

UFC fighters and stars celebrate Father's Day. [Screenshots courtesy: Accounts on Instagram]