UFC champ Tyron Woodley says he LOVES that Nike signed Colin Kaepernick -- because it's inspiring and brave ... and he strongly believes the QB is continuing the legacy of Muhammad Ali.
"When Muhammad Ali died, I think [Kaepernick] took the torch."
Tyron says Kaep could have easily taken his NFL money and shut up somewhere -- ignoring the glaring issues when it comes to police brutality against minorities ... but he did the courageous thing and spoke out.
... just like Ali.
There's a lot more on this episode of 'The Hollywood Beatdown' -- including Tyron's weight cut for his UFC 228 fight against Darren Till.
Tyron tells us everything about all of his last minute preparations -- including final meals and what music he listens to right before walking into the Octagon.
It's great stuff.
Check out 'The Hollywood Beatdown' every Friday on the TMZ Sports YouTube page -- and catch Tyron's fight at UFC 228 on Saturday night.