Brandon Li, Vassar College, Author at Study Breaks

The Fall of El Cucuy: Can Tony Ferguson Recover From His Losing Streak?

The UFC fighter, once one of the best fighters in his league, has experienced an abrupt downfall.…

June 6, 2021

UFC Heavyweight Stipe Miocic Has a Tough Road Back to the Title

Despite the former champion’s decorated resume, his age and his stronger division make it seem unlikely that he will regain the belt. …

May 27, 2021

José Aldo Can Still Hold His Own Among UFC Contenders

Brandon Li, Vassar College

Though the mixed martial artist has suffered a series of defeats since claiming the championship title, he has still demonstrated a high level of skill that shouldn't be discounted.…

May 23, 2021

illustration of anthony smith flexing his muscles in the fighting ring

Despite His Talent, Anthony Smith Will Not Capture UFC Gold

Brandon Li, Vassar College

The mixed martial artist seems to be stuck in the rut of a "gatekeeper" fighter — his skills are used as a benchmark to gauge others', but he is unlikely to be a contender himself.…

May 14, 2021

illustration of ufc fighters kamaru usman and jorge masvidal in the ring

Kamaru Usman Was a Shoo-In To Win the UFC 261 Match

Brandon Li, Vassar College

Though his opponent Jorge Masvidal entered the ring with improved knockout power and endurance, Usman remains unmatched in many areas of fighting skill.…

May 1, 2021

Illustration of colby covington with cameras pointing at him and a red MAGA hat in a speech bubble

Do Colby Covington’s Achievements Justify His Remarks?

Brandon Li, Vassar College

The mixed martial arts champion has received backlash for personal and political attacks on other athletes, but some argue that his statements are excusable as a marketing tactic.…

April 28, 2021

for an article about death note, a hand holding a glowing red apple with scrawled writing in the background

‘Death Note’ Is Still a Thrilling, Morally Complex Must-Watch

Brandon Li, Vassar College

The 15th anniversary of Tsugumi Ohba’s anime is a prime time to revisit the action-packed, mysterious tale of a student who gains — and abuses — incredible power over human life.…

April 23, 2021

‘Suga’ Sean O’Malley Still Has Potential To Grab the UFC Gold

Brandon Li, Vassar College

Though success against better fighters is far from certain, the mixed martial artist has demonstrated defensive ability and striking accuracy that makes him a dangerous competitor.…

April 14, 2021

illustration of sun yang swimming in a pool with the olympic flag hanging above him

The Sun Has Set on Sun Yang’s Swimming Career — or Has It?

Brandon Li, Vassar College

The Chinese athlete broke records and dominated a wide array of Olympic events before failure to comply with drug testing protocols earned him a suspension from the sport.…

April 8, 2021

Aljamain Sterling Should Not Be Condemned for His UFC Win

Brandon Li, Vassar College

The mixed martial arts champion received criticism for celebrating a victory he got by luck and initially rejected, but his actions do not nullify his undeniable accomplishment.…

April 1, 2021

Counter Logic Gaming Continues To Disappoint, Thanks to Poor Roster Moves

Brandon Li, Vassar College

The esports franchise has made a string of questionable decisions to remove talented players from its League of Legends team which, over time, have led to a decline in the organization's prestige.…

March 24, 2021