The MMA Daily

UFC 262: Oliveira vs. Chandler Predictions

May 15, 2021

The UFC is back in action, as the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas plays host to an exciting PPV card. Headlining the event is two Lightweights whom are the unlikeliest of title contenders. One half is Charles Oliveira who debuted in the UFC at 21 years of age back in 2010. More or less, Oliveira would have streaks of wins and losses, along the way grabbing the UFC submission record. Something however clicked in 2018, as the Brazilian rattled off eight straight victories – earning this title shot. As for the other half Michael Chandler, the former Bellator Lightweight Champion jumped ship to the UFC in 2020. He would make a dramatic debut in January of 2021, knocking out the extremely durable Dan Hooker. The debut catapulted him into the title picture and then into a title shot, as Dustin Poirier opted for a trilogy bout against Conor McGregor instead of the belt. No complaint for Chandler, as he has a huge chance to grab UFC gold in his second UFC fight, something that has rarely been done. In what should be a good fight, the winner of this bout just has good feels written all over it.

UFC 262 PPV Main Card On ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

155 lbs.: Charles Oliveira vs. Michael Chandler for vacant lightweight title – This either goes two ways. Charles Oliveira gets this fight to the floor and submits Michael Chandler or the American cracks and finishes the Brazilian via knockout. I’ll go with the latter. Oliveira is on an amazing run and he’s a long ways from the guy that quit when the times were tough. However, he hasn’t faced a decorated wrestler with legit power like Chandler. He fought a wrestler in Kevin Lee who’s striking is good, but he doesn’t have that fight changing power. Chandler is a whole different animal and I believe the former Bellator Champion is going to realize his dream, beating Oliveira via KO.

155 lbs.: Tony Ferguson vs. Beneil Dariush – I for one do not believe that Tony Ferguson is done. Yes, the amount of punishment he’s taken definitely has caught up to a degree. Yes, his takedown defense and getup ability can be stifled by strong grapplers. Yes, Beneil Dariush fits that mold. However, Dariush does slow down in the third and his chin, while better than people credit, can be a problem at times. While I’m not overly confident, I do feel that Ferguson isn’t quite done. I believe he will get taken down, but work off his back like he did against Kevin Lee. Come round three, Ferguson will strike and beat a tired Dariush by TKO.

125 lbs.: Viviane Araujo vs. Katlyn Chookagian – I believe that Katlyn Chookagian has shown evolution to her game since fighting Valentina Shevchenko, adding wrestling. However, her striking is simply putting forth volume with no concern for actually landing. A 34% striking accuracy reflects that. Viviane Araujo is the complete package. She has excellent takedown defense, can strike with volume and power and can wrestle – showing off to be physically strong. Despite being the underdog, I believe she gets it done rather easily via decision.

145 lbs.: Edson Barboza vs. Shane Burgos – Part of me see’s Shane Burgos fighting into Edson Barboza’s style. The other part believes he learned a lesson against Josh Emmett. To me, this is a coin flip. Burgos offers pressure, pace and striking volume. He lacks striking defense. Edson Barboza is a solid striker, who has some of the best leg kicks in the UFC and offers a very dynamic arsenal of strikes. At Featherweight, he looks to have a solid base to defense takedowns and could make noise here if he can build off his victory over Makwan Amirkhani. However, I’m going with Burgos. I think the volume and pace alone could be trouble for Barboza ala the Michael Johnson fight. I do caution though Burgos’s love for getting hit and Barboza’s counter striking. Yet, give me Burgos to win via decision in what could be the Fight of the Century.

125 lbs.: Matt Schnell vs. Rogerio Bontorin – At first I was on Rogerio Bontorin, but between missing weight and looking completely disinterested at the weigh ins, give me Matt Schnell. I’m not confident in this prediction, but Schnell has shown the striking prowess and cardio to beat most. It’s his durability that has cost him from rising up the ranks. Let’s hope it holds up.

UFC 262 Prelims Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

185 lbs.: Andre Muniz vs. Ronaldo Souza – While Ronaldo Souza is long in the tooth, the man is still a BJJ wizard with good striking abilities. His chin is no longer cast iron, but I don’t believe it’s iffy. I mean, the man suffered a knockout loss to Kevin Holland, his first since 2017. Throw in the fact that Andre Muniz isn’t known for his power or striking, and Souza should be relatively fine. The man has fought killers his whole career and this is by far his ‘easiest’ opponent since maybe Bristol Marunde in 2012.

145 lbs.: Mike Grundy vs. Lando Vannata – ‘Groovy’ Lando Vannata looked in phenomenal shape heading into his Featherweight debut. The problem that lies here is that Vannata’s struggles have comes from those who wrestled. And to be fair, none of the opponents he faced has the physical strength and wrestling of Mike Grundy. To me, that is the writing on the wall. So with that, give me Grundy to win via decision.

125 lbs.: Andrea Lee vs. Antonina Shevchenko – If either of these women commit to a heavy wrestling game, the route to victory is clear. However knowing which one will, is another story. On the feet, I actually favor Andrea Lee. Her striking volume is always high and she has good defense, mostly fighting moving backwards and countering her foes. And despite being on a three fight losing streak, Lee is two split decisions going her way from fighting for a title. Albeit I see this fight being another close one, give me the Texas native ‘KGB’ Lee to win via decision.

185 lbs.: Jamie Pickett vs. Jordan Wright – What to trust? The iffy chin of Jordan Wright or the lack of striking volume of Jamie Pickett. Honestly, part me of me thinks that Pickett just needs one clean strike and another was sort of impressed with Wright lasting as long as he did against Joaquin Buckley. You know what, give me Wright to win via decision.

UFC 262 Early Prelims Card On Fight Pass/ESPN+ (6:30 p.m. ET):

125 lbs.: Priscila Cachoeira vs. Gina Mazany – Although Gina Mazany looked solid in her Flyweight debut, showing off excellent wrestling and her pure physical strength, I still don’t trust her chin. At Bantamweight it was a problem and at Flyweight, it could essentially be worse. Now, Priscila Cachoeira probably will succumb to takedowns, but her striking is good. She’s got some pop and if there are any moments on the feet, I really do believe she hurts and finishes Mazany. So there it is, I’m calling upset. Cachoeira via TKO!

145 lbs.: Kevin Aguilar vs. Tucker Lutz – I feel like the combination of Tucker Lutz dropping down to Featherweight and Kevin Aguilar coming into this on a three fight losing streak, has me a little flustered with this prediction. In the end though, I do believe that the former LFA champion Aguilar will pull through. His takedown defense is superb, but if I’m being honest, he could use a tick up in striking volume. Regardless, give me the Texas native to stave off the UFC pink slip, winning via decision.

155 lbs.: Christos Giagos vs. Sean Soriano – This just seems like a typical Christos Giagos fight. Win the first two rounds spamming takedowns, gas out and lose the third – win the fight 29-28. I expect nothing less…
UFC on ESPN 24: Rodriguez vs. Waterson Predictions

May 8, 2021

The UFC is back in action, live from the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. Headlining the card is a pair of Strawweight hopefuls in Marina Rodriguez and Michelle Waterson. The implications are high for this bout, as the winner of this undoubtedly catapults themselves into the title picture.

Quick Picks:
UFC on ESPN 23: Reyes vs. Prochazka Predictions

May 1, 2021

The UFC is back in action, as they return to the Apex in Las Vegas, Nevada. Headlining the event is two Light Heavyweight contenders in Dominick Reyes and Jiri Prochazka. A win for either men could very well catapult them to a title shot. So with that on the line, expect this fight to be a very contested one. Either way, these two finishers will put on a show, so don’t blink.

UFC Vegas 25 Main Card on ESPN2/ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

205 lbs.: Dominick Reyes vs. Jiri Prochazka – Gosh this is a tough fight to call. On one hand, you have Dominick Reyes, who many thought dethroned Jon Jones. The following fight against Jan Blachowicz for the vacant Light Heavyweight belt, he got starched. Reyes, a solid striker and overall athlete, rose up the UFC ranks quickly. With power and speed, Reyes is a tough out for anyone. Meanwhile, Jiri Prochazka is an absolute madman. With speed and dynamic striking abilities, Prochazka is a buzzsaw on the feet. Not afraid to throw flying knees or lunge into foes, Prochazka has knocked out 24 of his 27 opponents. In fact, only one opponent he hasn’t finished. His one downfall is wildness, which this far, has really only cost him in his fight against King Mo. However, that was four years ago and Prochazka has won eleven straight since. As for a prediction, give me Prochazka to do what he does best, and win via TKO.

145 lbs.: Giga Chikadze vs. Cub Swanson – This is a true test for Giga Chikadze, as only Omar Morales presented himself to be a tough fight on paper for the Georgian. Chikadze would crush Morales, showing himself to be the very feared kickboxer we knew. I however am not completely sold yet, as four of his five opponents thus far have been not very good. Cub Swanson, while old in the tooth, is still a solid fighter. He’s insanely durable, has solid cardio, is a talented striker and fights with a high IQ. The last being detrimental for this fight, as I believe Swanson will mix in a takedowns at some point in the fight. It’s the one area of concern for Chikadze, who has been taken down by lesser wrestlers than Swanson. In the end, my prediction is that the veteran extends his win streak to three – winning via decision.

205 lbs.: Ion Cutelaba vs. Dustin Jacoby – While I initially had Ion Cutelaba winning via knockout in this fight, I’m switching to the late replacement Dustin Jacoby. It’s not even because I believe Jacoby is the better fighter, it’s more so because Cutelaba fight IQ and wild card fighting style is highly unpredictable. His willingness to brawl puts him in danger often and I foresee it causing him to lose via TKO.

185 lbs.: Krzysztof Jotko vs. Sean Strickland – I like this fight, but I see Sean Strickland coming out the victor. Between his striking volume and power, he holds advantages on the feet that I don’t believe Krzysztof Jotko can overcome. Throw in the stout takedown defense of Strickland and Jotko has little path to winning this fight in my opinion. So with that, I see Strickland continuing his rise up the Middleweight ranks, winning via knockout.

135 lbs.: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Cody Stamann – This is going to be fun fight, and it really depends on if Cody Stamann can consistently stuff takedowns for fifteen minutes, get off his striking and have the gas tank for the pace of Merab Dvalishvili. I believe Stamann can partially do all those things, but won’t win simply because Dvalishvili activity trying for takedowns for fifteen minutes – winning on cage control alone. In my opinion though, Dvalishvili will get some takedowns and some strikes, which will be good enough to win via decision.

UFC Vegas 25 Prelims Card on ESPN2/ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

115 lbs.: Randa Markos vs. Luana Pinheiro – Randa Markos career is on the line, as she’s dropped three straight fights and four of her last five. Throw in the fact that another loss would put her record under .500, and there is a lot to be concerned with. The one thing going for Markos however, is the fact that Luana Pinheiro has yet to really be tested by anyone. Throw in octagon jitters, and I see Markos taking advantage, winning with her jab via decision.

145 lbs.: TJ Brown vs. Kai Kamaka III – This is a toss-up. Neither have show exceptional gas tanks, which could make this a sloppy fight should it go long. My concern for TJ Brown is his durability, as he’s been finished in six of his eight losses. My concern for Kamaka III is his dreadful striking defense and takedown defense. Given Brown can wrestle, I expect him to exploit Kamaka’s weakness. Throw in the fact that while Kamaka throws exceptional volume on the feet, he lacks power. It’s that x-factor that should give Brown’s durability a better chance of holding up long enough to get the fight to the ground each round. So with that, give me Brown to win via decision.

125 lbs.: Poliana Botelho vs. Luana Carolina – I really don’t trust Poliana Botelho, but she should be the better overall striker, albeit Luana Carolina bringing forth more volume on the feet. If Carolina proves to be stronger than Botelho, I could see Carolina push her against the cage. If not, and my prediction, Botelho eeks out a decision victory.

115 lbs.: Sam Hughes vs. Loma Lookboonmee – Sam Hughes got fed to wolves in her debut, fighting the resurging Tecia Torres. It doesn’t get any better, as she has to take on a tough volume striker in Loma Lookboonmee. I don’t see this going any better than her debut, other than I guess not getting finished. So with that, give me Lookboonmee to win via decision.

185 lbs.: K.B. Bhullar vs. Andreas Michailidis – While a debut against Tom Breese isn’t ideal, neither was K.B Bhullar’s resume heading into that debut. Minus fighting Matt Dwyer, Bhullar’s previous opponents didn’t shout out to me that he was UFC ready. Throw in the fact that Bhullar had a five year gap at one point in his career and I’m not entirely bullish on him. So with that, give me the experienced hard punching Andreas Michalidis to win via decision.

135 lbs.: Felipe Colares vs. Luke Sanders – Look for Luke Sanders to come out strong early and then fade the later the fight goes. If Sanders can’t secure a first round finish, then I fully expect the iron chinned Felipe Corales to turn the tide after round one. Given Sanders gas tank and countless woes after round one, give me Corrales to win via decision.
UFC 261: Usman vs. Masvidal 2 Predictions

April 24, 2021

The UFC is back in action, as they play host to a full crowd in Jacksonville, Florida. Headlining the card is a Welterweight title fight, as Champion Kamaru Usman looks to close the chapter on Jorge Masivdal. The first fight was all Usman, as the Nigerian controlled Masvidal against the cage and with his wresting over five rounds. With a training camp under Masvidal’s belt, expect ‘Gamebred’ to provide a much more competitive fight this time around. Two other title fights are on this card, as the Flyweight Queen Valentina Shevchenko puts her belt and dominance of the division on the line against former Strawweight Champion Jessica Andrade. Lastly, Strawweight Champion Weili Zhang looks to continue to put her stamp in UFC lure, as she defends her belt against former Strawweight Champion Rose Namajunas. I suggest, not blinking during any of these fights! Enjoy!

UFC 261 PPV Main Card on ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

170 lbs.: UFC Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman vs. Jorge Masvidal 2 – The rematch! While many aren’t giving Jorge Masvidal a shot, I am picking him to win. Which is a crazy thought. For one, I’ve said for the longest time, perhaps even after Usman’s first UFC win, that this man was a future world champion. His wrestling and ever improving striking is just a nightmare for any opponent. The one problem I see for Usman, is someone who can fend off takedowns, has better cardio and is a better striker. I truly believe that Masvidal is all three of those. In the first fight, it was glaring that on the feet and in the exchanges, Masvidal was the better man. However, Usman’s strength and wrestling proved to be too much. That and Masvidal clearly not being in shape for five rounds, which given the short notice of the fight is completely understandable. Could I be putting too much stock into that, perhaps, but you can’t deny Masvidal’s cardio wasn’t the same as we’ve seen in the past. You can’t deny Masvidal got the better of Usman on the feet. And you can’t deny that Masvidal as winded as he was, stopped eleven of Usman’s sixteen takedown attempts. So with that, I say And New….Jorge Masvidal wins via decision.

125 lbs.: UFC Flyweight Champion Valentina Shevchenko vs. Jessica Andrade – As much as I want to say that Jessica Andrade presents the hardest challenge for Valentina Shevchenko to date, her style falls right into Shevchenko’s strength’s. The pressure and aggressiveness that Andrade puts forth on the feet plays right into Shevchenko’s counter striking. In fact, so much that I envision Andrade walking or running into a cross or a head kick finish. I also believe that Shevchenko holds the strength and grappling advantage too, which rare to say when facing a brute like Andrade. However, you have to remember Andrade is coming up from Strawweight (I know she fought at Bantamweight) and Shevchenko came down from Bantamweight. Not that those dynamics are always right, but not many can match Shevchenko’s strength. In the end, like I said, Shevchenko wins via knockout.

115 lbs.: UFC Strawweight Champion Weili Zhang vs. Rose Namajunas – This is going to be such a fun fight, it’s not even funny. Both women are excellent strikers and while Rose Namajunas is the more technical of the two, Weili Zhang has the power to disrupt. The one glaring factor that keeps staring me in the face in this fight though, is that Namajunas is such a force in the first two rounds, and then wanes off. I’m not sure if it’s a cardio conscious thing or what, but I’ve noticed this in her career. For example, if that second Jessica Andrade fight was a five round fight, I don’t thing Namajunas was going to win nor make it the full five.

Against a powerful and durable fighter like Zhang, who is going to keep a hard pace, I just don’t see Namajunas lasting a full five. ‘Thug’ Rose really needs to hurt Zhang and or finish the Champion early. Otherwise, as the fight wanes, the volume and pace that Zhang will put on Namajunas is going to break the former Champion. In the end, Zhang hand is raised, winning via TKO.

185 lbs.: Chris Weidman vs. Uriah Hall – This is Chris Weidman’s last stand. His recent string of fights have been relatively unimpressive and have shown that his durability and chin no longer are advantages. Throw in the fact that Weidman’s once cardio edge on opponents may be a weakness and it’s concerning. However, I’m still going to back the man. Uriah Hall, for whatever reason isn’t active on the feet as he should be. With his background and power, a little volume would turn him into a powerhouse on the feet. His hesitancy though has held him back. It’s also what will give Weidman time to recover and the cardio needed to continue to take down Hall for a three round decision victory.

185 lbs.: Jimmy Crute vs. Anthony Smith – I feel like we all know how this fight is going to play out. Either the slow starter that Anthony Smith is, get’s finished in the first round or he weathers the storm and comes back against a gassed Jimmy Crute. The latter is possible, but unlikely in my opinion. Crute has heavy hands and is a fast starter. He should realistically control and tee off on Smith early, ultimately finishing the former title contender via TKO.

UFC 261 Late “Prelims” Under Card on ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

170 lbs.: Randy Brown vs. Alex Oliveira – ‘Cowboy’ will always be a fun fighter, but his recent regression and cardio issues have me off him for the time being. That and the fact that Randy Brown has improved each and every fight, showing off well rounded abilities. In my opinion, this is Brown’s coming out party. I expect a fun fight early, but as it wanes, Brown is going to drop Oliveira and submit him.

170 lbs.: Dwight Grant vs. Stefan Sekulic – This is a fight that Dwight Grant should realistically win and win early. Stefan Sekulic has not fought since 2018, he had surgery on his jaw and was suspended for two years by USADA. Seems like a lot to come back to against someone whom has legit knockout power. Now, I will say that Grant’s overall lack of activity on the feet gives me concern. However, it only takes one shot to land for this fight to turn on it’s heels. So with that, give me Grant to win via knockout.

185 lbs.: Brendan Allen vs. Karl Roberson – On the basis of Brendan Allen getting back to the basics, I envision him taking Karl Roberson down and attacking his lack thereof grappling and submission defense. Should Allen fail to get Roberson down, then this fight leans the other way. However, given Roberson has not shown the ability to fend off takedowns and submissions, I’ll hold my reservations for thinking he can stop a takedown. So with that, give me Allen to win via submission.

145 lbs.: Tristan Connelly vs. Pat Sabatini – From what I’ve seen, Pat Sabatini is solid grappler and could be something special at Featherweight. However, I like this move by Tristan Connelly down to Featherweight. He was having solid success at Lightweight, and the victory at Welterweight on short notice against Michel Pereira was impressive in that he fought in basically a Pride Open Weight fight and won. With wins in nine of his last ten fights, I feel that this version of Connelly at Featherweight could be his best. If he can ward off Sabatini from taking him down, on the feet, he should hold a sizable striking advantage. The further this fight goes too, the cardio of Connelly should begin to edge out Sabbatini. In the end, Connelly gets his hand raised, winning via decision.

UFC 261 Early “Prelims” Under Card on ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

135 lbs.: Danaa Batgerel vs. Kevin Natividad – I’ve been back-and-forth with this fight, but ultimately I’m backing Danaa Batgerel to get the decision victory. I believe his cardio, power, takedown defense and activity on the feet will ever so slightly edge out rounds over Kevin Natividad.

155 lbs.: Kazula Vargas vs. Rong Zhu – From the little I’ve seen of both men, I’ve been more impressed with Rong Zhu. While his takedown defense can use some work, his striking abilities seem pretty solid for someone who’s 21 years old. While Kazula Vargas has never been stopped via strikes, I could see him facing adversity in this fight. Alas, give me Zhu to win via decision.

125 lbs.: Qileng Aori vs. Jeffrey Molina – Coin Flip says… Jeffrey Molina to win via decision. I just see a man who’s fought better competition heading into this fight and being trained by James Krause is always a boost.

155 lbs.: Ariane Carnelossi vs. Na Liang – This is a bit of a toss-up with a side of unknown. Na Liang has fought a lot on the regional scene, much in which there is no video of. However, I’ve noticed a trend with her career thus far. She is a first round fighter, with fourteen of her wins coming in the opening round. Only once has she won a fight past round one. Also, every time she gets a step up in competition, she falters. So with that, give me Ariane Carnelossi to drag Liang into the later rounds and win via TKO.
UFC on ESPN 22: Whittaker vs. Gastelum

April 17, 2021

The UFC is back, live from the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada. Headlining the event is a pair of Middleweight contenders, with former Middleweight Champion Robert Whittaker continuing his climb back to UFC Gold, as he faces Kelvin Gastelum. The TUF 28 coaches finally will settle their score, as their previous matchup never took place – with Whittaker unfortunately pulling on the day of their fight. While both are at different points in their career from that original matchup, both remain staples and contenders in an ever growing division. This should be a good one!

UFC Vegas 24 Main Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

185 lbs.: Robert Whittaker vs. Kelvin Gastelum – I feel that this is Robert Whittaker’s fight to lose. No offense to Kelvin Gastelum, but Whittaker just holds too many advantage for me to believe that over five rounds he loses. For one, on the feet, Whittaker’s striking and distance management is going to allow him to get off first and land the better of the strikes. Wrestling goes to Gastelum, but Whittaker’s solid takedown defense neutralizes it. I mean, if Whittaker can hold off Yoel Romero to a mere seven takedowns on twenty eight attempts over fifty minutes – I don’t see Gastelum having much success. In the end, this fight takes place on the feet for the majority. And that alone aides Whittaker – who has time and time again stood toe to toe with the best strikers and more often than not, has beaten them. Add another win to Whittaker’s resurgence, as he wins via decision.

265 lbs.: Andrei Arlovski vs. Chase Sherman – Part of me believes that Andrei Arlovski wins this fight and the other part see’s father time and overall punishment catching up to him. While the last thing could be true, as his most two recent losses have come via finish – I’m not ready to write off Arlovski. I mean, he has two wins in 2020 over PFL Tournament winner Philipe Lins and the rising Canadian talent Tanner Boser. However, Chase Sherman has shown in his second UFC stint better striking abilities to go along with his power. That combo may be enough to take out Arlovski, but I’ll say it aides Sherman to a decision victory.

185 lbs.: Abdul Razak Alhassan vs. Jacob Malkoun – I understand that Abdul Razak Alhassan has suffered back-to-back upset losses, but the lack of experience of Jacob Malkoun combined with the power of Alhassan – gives me belief that this is a bounce back fight for the Ghanaian. So with that, give me Alhassan to win via knockout.

125 lbs.: Tracy Cortez vs. Justine Kish – While Justine Kish has proven time and time to be a tough out, her lack of takedown defense is going to put her at a serious disadvantage in this fight. Cortez has shown well rounded abilities, but her wrestling is what she banked on his her two UFC victories. Make it three, as Cortez’s wins via decision.

155 lbs.: Alexander Munoz vs. Luis Pena – This fight is a toss-up. Luis Pena is the better overall fighter, showing off good striking and a good submission game. However, his inability to stay upright and fend off takedowns has been his downfall. Given that Alexander Munoz is a wrestler, this will be a good test for Pena to see if his kryptonite continues to haunt him. In my opinion, it does. In a split decision, give me Munoz to win.

UFC Vegas 24 ‘Prelims’ Under Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

265 lbs.: Juan Espino vs. Alexandr Romanov – Juan Espino has looked dominant in his two UFC bouts. However, at 41 years of age, fighting these young and hungry fighters is going to catch up – especially against someone like Alexander Romanov. ‘King Kong’ has been nothing short of an alpha in the cage, showing off his well rounded abilities in each fight. While Espino holds an advantage should he be able to get this fight to the mat, I don’t see that happening. Romanov has shown to have a solid base and good takedown defense. On the feet, it’s all Romanov. Hitting foes at an 80% clip, albeit mostly via ground strikes, Romanov is a borderline sniper. The longer this fight goes too, the worst it gets for Espino. In the end, Romanov walks away with a TKO victory.

115 lbs.: Lupita Godinez vs. Jessica Penne – I wish I could say Jessica Penne wins this, but a four year layoff is just way too long for me to believe that she has evolved to the times. So with, give me Lupita Godinez to win via decision

185 lbs.: Bartosz Fabinski vs. Gerald Meerschaert – Bartosz Fabinski is a grinder and good one at that. Often shying away from striking, Fabinski has made a living on taking foes down and controlling them. What has been his crux however, is his submission defense. Of his four professional losses, three have come via submission. Against a submission wizard like Gerald Meerschaert, that porous submission defense will be tested. Considering Fabinski doesn’t offer much on the feet other than a winging punch, expect him to take Meerschaert down and proceed to get finished via… submission.

155 lbs.: Austin Hubbard vs. Dakota Bush – I don’t know much about Dakota Bush other than he’s been fighting at LFA for some time. Given the short notice nature, Austin Hubbard’s workhorse like rate should zap Bush’s cardio as the fight wanes. In the end, Hubbard wins via decision.

135 lbs.: Anthony Birchak vs. Tony Gravely – Anthony Birchak has had a rough patch of late, losing four of his last six fights. He’s got some pop on the feet and good submission abilities. His chin however is seemingly fading. Once Tony Gravely lands something clean, it will open up a submission victory.
UFC on ABC 2: Vettori vs. Holland

April 10, 2021

The UFC is back on ABC, as two Middleweight contenders look to thrust their name into title contention. While this main event was originally supposed to feature Darren Till and Marvin Vettori – Till pulled out and in stepped Kevin Holland. If you don’t recall, Holland fought three weeks ago in a main event against Derek Brunson. Let’s just say, Holland didn’t show up. With three weeks to mull over the loss, he is back at it with a tall task – the ‘Italian Dream’ Marvin Vettori. The Italian is climbing up the rankings and is coming off an absolutely impressive performance against Jack Hermansson. While a win over Holland is nearly as stock boosting as one over Till would of been, Vettori could be setting himself up in a number one contenders fight next.

13 – Kevin Holland is stepping back in on short notice, three weeks after an unaspiring fight again Derek Brunson. Noticeably, ‘Big Mouth’ has been relatively tame and perhaps lessons were learned. I want to lean Marvin Vettori in this fight because he is an all around talent, who is durable and seemingly has five round cardio. However, Holland’s aura this week has me believing that he’s going to pull off the upset. As long his cardio holds up, I expect him to go back to fierce striker he’s shown he is. So with that, I have Holland winning via decision.

12 – I believe that Arnold Allen is talented, but between his lack of activity and the opponents he’s faced – I don’t see him getting his hand raised in this fight. Sodiq Yusuff is specimen, who has shown excellent striking abilities thus far. His takedown defense is good enough to shrug off anything Allen attempts on him, and the volume alone on the feet will pick apart the Brit. While many are split on this fight, I believe Yusuff handily takes it and in fact, I believe there is a higher chance it comes via KO.

11 – Sam Alvey is tough, but also getting up there in age and overall punishment. Add in the way Julian Marquez wings power strikes and I envision a knockout sooner than later for the ‘Cuban Missile Crisis’.

10 – Despite being out of action for awhile, Nunes is one of the more underrated strikers in the division. I also believe that Dern’s a better striker than given credit for too – at least for being such a specialist. As for the fight, give me Nunes. I believe she shuts down Dern’s grappling and outpoints her on the feet for a decision victory.

9 – Unless Mike Perry starts taking this serious, I can’t trust him. He’s got the durability, striking and strength – just no real game plan. So with that, give me Rodriguez to use his volume to outpoint Perry via decision.

8 – As much as I can see Jim Miller pulling off a submission, I also have really liked what I’ve seen from Joe Solecki thus far. His grappling has been solid and I envision Miller being on his back this whole fight. So with that, give me Solecki via decision.

7 – I believe Mateusz Gamrot is better than what he showed in his debut – one I still thought he won despite the judges scorecards. He’s a work horse, which goes a long in the UFC. Expect Gamrot to live up to the hype this time around, winning via TKO.

6 – Upon further review, I’m not entirely impressed with Ignacio Bahamondes. And while John Makdessi might be a little weathered, the man has shown he can still out strike many of his opponents. In a three round striking contest, give me Makdessi to overcome the height and reach disadvantage to outpoint his foe for a decision victory.

5 – Danho hasn’t fought for some time, nor has impressed when he did. Given he’s a heavyweight, anything can happen – however, give me De Castro to win via TKO.

4 – Jack Shore’s grappling is just so good, it’s hard to pick against him. Even though Hunter Azure has wrestling chops, I’m not sure he can withstand the constant grappling exchange that Shore is going to deploy. So with that, give me Shore to win via decision.

3 – Toss up. Guess Griffin, but I’m not sure either way.

2 – I’m going with Da Un Jung. While Wiliam Knight is a specimen with strength and power, I’m a little bullish on this fight. Jung has a solid jab, and I believe that it will neutralize Knight from getting off his power shots. In the end, Jung will outpoint Knight over three rounds for a decision victory.

1 – I believe the odds on this fight are off. Impa Kasangnay is only being critiqued for being on the end of one of the very best knockout in history. Meanwhile, the man is a solid striker, who is durable and has legit power. Sasha Palatnikov has heart and the will to win, but his chin is shaky. In the end, Kasangnay walks away the victor via knockout.
UFC 260: Miocic vs. Ngannou 2 Predictions

March 27, 2021

The UFC is back in action, with a Heavyweight title led PPV. Live from the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Heavyweight Champion Stipe Miocic will yet again look to defend his throne against the fearsome ‘Predator’ Francis Ngannou. While Miocic got the better of Ngannou in the first contest, the Cameroonian is on a mission. With four knockout victories in a row, coming in a combined two minutes and forty two seconds, Ngannou is as fearsome on the feet as ever. However, Miocic ate all his punches in the first contest, and is coming off back-to-back wins over a legend in Daniel Cormier. The Champion is underrated, especially considering he fights in a division in which one punch ends the night more than any other division. Can Miocic outlast Ngannou one more time? We’ll see!

UFC 260 PPV Main Card on ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

265 lbs.: UFC Heavyweight Champion Stipe Miocic vs. Francis Ngannou 2 – The Heavyweight title doesn’t often get defended more than once or twice a year, but when it does – it creates a buzz like no other. Stipe Miocic is a bad man, and has more or less, wiped out the older Heavyweights in and out of the UFC. He has also beaten Francis Ngannou, whom is given a second crack at redemption. While I believe Miocic is the full package and if this fight were to go past two rounds, he undoubtedly would be the favorite to win – I am going with Ngannou here. The once overly confident and showman Ngannou learnt a very big lesson from Miocic the first time they fought. One, to take this sport more seriously and two, that winging punches at a Champion like Miocic and emptying the tank in one round is a very silly thing to do. With all that in hand, the very dangerous Cameroonian striker isn’t going to make the same mistake twice. I expect flurries from Ngannou, but calculated and paced ones. I also don’t believe Ngannou empties the gas tank again early, being more technical and timely with his power shots. In the end, I have it And New – as Ngannou knocks Miocic out.

170 lbs.: Tyron Woodley vs. Vicente Luque – I feel like a broken record when defending Tyron Woodley, often saying that his athleticism, wrestling and knockout power make him a threat to beat anyone. However, all that goes out the window when you decide to not use any of your skills. I mean, the man has literally lost fifteen rounds in a row. The lack of activity and willingness to get pressured to where your back is against the cage, is seemingly where we are at with Woodley. I hope I’m wrong here and Woodley pulls off a ‘Yall Musta Forgot’ – cause I don’t like to be this critical of a fighter. However, given Woodley’s state and Luque offering striking volume, power and an iron chin – it’s going to be all Luque for three rounds.

135 lbs.: Sean O’Malley vs. Thomas Almeida – This fight ends inside the distance. Whether Sean O’Malley’s ankle gives out and renders him unable to fight or Thomas Almeida’s chin fails him yet again. I’ll go with the latter – O’Malley wins via knockout.

125 lbs.: Miranda Maverick vs. Gillian Robertson – I like Gillian Robertson. She’s feisty, always looking to get the fight to the ground and submit her foes. However, when Robertson is matched up with a wrestler or superior grappler, she struggles. Robertson’s striking isn’t quite there to give her another avenue to victory. So without that window, her game can get sloppy if neutralized. Against Miranda Maverick, who is a strong wrestler and grappler, I’m not seeing Robertson getting over this hump yet. So with that, give me Maverick to win via decision.

155 lbs.: Jamie Mullarkey vs. Khama Worthy – This fight comes down to two things in my opinion. One, can Khama Worthy avoid being taken down and two, does Jamie Mullarkey have anything on the feet to crack the rather chinny Worthy. While the last point is concerning and we’ve seen Luis Pena succeed in taking Worthy down, I do believe that Worthy’s sneaky submission could aid him back to his feet. A place where he will dominate and eventually land the knock out blow on Mullarkey.

UFC 260 ‘Prelims’ Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

205 lbs.: Alonzo Menifield vs. Fabio Cherant – I credit Fabio Cherant for stepping in on short notice, but this fight is a tall task. To avoid the storm that is the first round and a half from Alonzo Menifield, seems unlikely. I expect this fight to play out early on, with Menifield winning via knockout.

170 lbs.: Jared Gooden vs. Abubakar Nurmagomedov – Obviously, Abubakar Nurmagomedov doesn’t have the skills of his cousin Khabib Nurmagomedov. However, he does have a wrestling game that can stifle Jared Gooden. If for whatever reason Nurmagomedov can’t take Gooden down or decides to stand with Gooden, he most likely will get dominated on the feet – maybe even get knocked out. Despite that though, I can’t see this going any other way than Nurmagomedov taking Gooden down and controlling him for three rounds.

205 lbs.: Modestas Bukauskas vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk – This fight ain’t going to the judges. Both men live by the sword and die by it too. Modestas Bukauskas enters this contest with eleven wins, ten of them coming via stoppage. He has been finished in all three of his losses. Meanwhile, Michal Oleksiejczuk has fourteen wins, eleven of which come via stoppage. He has suffered four defeats, being finished in all of them. So, who’s going to land the finishing blow? My guess is Oleksiejczuk, but who knows…

145 lbs.: Omar Morales vs. Shane Young – I still don’t like the decision of Omar Morales to drop down to Featherweight. At Lightweight he looked good, winning his first two UFC fights rather convincingly. Throw in a knockout victory in Dana White’s Contender Series, and Morales is 3-0 inside the Octagon at Lightweight. A drop to Featherweight showed a poor version of Morales, who nearly got knocked out. That leads me to Shane Young, who isn’t at the striking level of Morales’s last opponent Giga Chikadze. Yet, Young offers enough pressure and striking volume to give a good account for himself on the feet. Young is especially at his best when the fight solely takes place, which will be in this fight. While I’m curious to see Morales in his second fight at Featherweight, if it’s anything like the first fight – Young could have a field day. With all that said, I do expect a close fight, but give me Shane Young to win via decision.

UFC 260 Early ‘Prelims’ Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (7:30 p.m. ET):

185 lbs.: Abu Azaitar vs. Marc-Andre Barriault – Despite being out for over two years, I’m siding with Abu Azaitar. If Marc-Andre Barriault had a wrestling background of some sort, I’d be all over him. But because I believe this fight will take place solely on the feet, I favor Azaitar. He has the power edge and a two inch reach advantage – which will aid him in overcoming the height disadvantage. My only fear is that Azaitar gasses out or looks out of sorts due to being out of action. However, I’ll stand by siding with ‘Captain Morocco’ to win via decision.
UFC on ESPN 21: Brunson vs. Holland Predictions

March 20, 2021

The UFC is back in action, as the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada plays host to a fun ESPN fight card. Headlining the event is a pair of Middleweight contenders in Derek Brunson and Kevin Holland. Both men enter on impressive win streaks and if anything, a win here could elevate them to a title shot. I only say that because Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya has often alluded to fighting a fresh face. With that all said, expect this fight to be a competitive one – as both men realize that better roads lay ahead.

UFC Vegas 22 Main Card on ESPN / ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

185 lbs.: Derek Brunson vs. Kevin Holland – This is an excellent fight, and while many call Derek Brunson a gatekeeper, I think he brushed aside that role when he starched the undefeated Edmen Shahbayzan. With Brunson’s newfound patience and added importance to wrestle, the now contender is riding a three fight win streak. However, he runs into a Buzzsaw here in Kevin Holland. The ‘Trailblazer’ has won five fights in a row, finishing four of them impressively. The last being a knockout victory over Jacare Souza. In this fight, if Brunson is to win – it’s because he used his wrestling early and clearly has a strength advantage. The one thing that is tough for me to gauge though, is if Brunson has the cardio to wrestle for five rounds. Even a tired Holland is still a dangerous Holland. The same can’t be said about Brunson. So with they, give me Holland to win via fourth round TKO.

170 lbs.: Max Griffin vs. Song Kenan – This fight is a contrast of records, as Song Kenan has been sort of gifted with winnable fights and Max Griffin has fought tough opponents – often finding himself on the short end of controversial decision defeats. What I’m getting at, is Kenan perhaps faces his toughest opponent here, but one that doesn’t exactly pitch a shut out. However, I still have Griffin winning. He’s well rounded and if need be, he can attack Kenan’s spotty takedown defense. In the end, Griffin gets his hand raised via decision – hopefully unanimous.

115 lbs.: Cheyanne Buys vs. Montserrat Ruiz – While Cheyanne Buys hasn’t fought anyone as good as Montserrat Ruiz, I just don’t see Buys losing this fight. It could get sloppy, as Ruiz likes to come forward with strikes, but Buys has the better technique and should win off that alone. So with that, give me Buys to win via decision.

135 lbs.: Gustavo Lopez vs. Adrian Yanez – This is a fun fight and I see it going either two ways. One, Adrian Yanez uses that vaunted speed, power and counter strikes to put down Gustavo Lopez early. Two, Lopez weathers any early troubles and uses his grappling edge to get this fight to the mat, winning via control. While Yanez is a decent sized favorite, I’m going with the latter. Lopez can also strike and has power, but would be wise not to stand with Yanez. Instead, take Yanez down – a problem that cost him three fights. So with that, give me the upset – with Lopez winning via decision.

265 lbs.: Tai Tuivasa vs. Harry Hunsucker – I commend Harry Hunsucker for stepping in on short notice, but other than a perfect punch – I don’t see this going well. With three losses, all by knockout, I’m already foreseeing this fight not going past round one. So with that, give me ‘Bam Bam’ Tai Tuivasa to win his second straight via knockout.

UFC Vegas 22 “Prelims” Card on ESPN2 / ESPN+ (7:30 p.m. ET):

135 lbs.: Macy Chiasson vs. Marion Reneau – While I’m sure Marion Reneau can keep this relatively competitive, I don’t see how she wins this. She has lost three straight fights, is 43 years old and is fighting some quiet frankly, better than her in Macy Chiasson. With size and better striking, I expect the former TUF 28 winner to take this fight comfortable via decision.

155 lbs.: Grant Dawson vs. Leonardo Santos – Imagine not being ranked or fighting a top ten opponent, when you have been undefeated for nearly 12 years and are 7-0-1 record in the UFC. That exactly Leonardo Santos situation, whom due to injuries have limited him to eight fights in nine years in the UFC. The now 41 year old Santos is out of his prime, and his gas tank seems to being get worse. The Brazilian will need an early finish to stay undefeated, as I expect Grant Dawson to get this fight into deep waters with his wrestling and grappling. In the end, the young gun will succeed and win via third round submission.

185 lbs.: Roman Dolidze vs. Trevin Giles – This fight is interesting in that Roman Dolidze drops down from Light Heavyweight to Middleweight. With good striking and solid grappling abilities, he’s a handful. Throw in size, and I could see Georgian being a legit problem in the Middleweight. The only issue I have is, cardio at this weight class. I can’t imagine dropping 20 extra pounds is all that easy nor helpful if the fight wanes. And while Trevin Giles has iffy cardio, I’m actually siding with him. As long as he can keep this fight upright, I favor his striking to get the better of Dolidze. So with that, give me Giles to win via decision.

135 lbs.: Montel Jackson vs. Jesse Strader – Given Jesse Strader hasn’t fought since 2019, and immediately is welcomed by an athletic, young and powerful fighter in Montel Jackson – I smell nothing short of a tough debut. One in which ends in a knockout defeat. So with that, give me Jackson to win via first round KO.

125 lbs.: J.P. Buys vs. Bruno Silva – Despite being the underdog, I like Bruno Silva here. He’s battled tested, as he’s been thrown into three tough fights in the UFC thus far. Throw in the fact that Silva showed a good account for himself in all three contest, landing several takedowns in each fight – and the Brazilian is due for a win. So with that, give me Silva to win his first UFC bout via decision.
UFC Fight Night 187: Edwards vs. Muhammad Predictions

March 13, 2021

After a fun UFC 259 card, the UFC returns to APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada with a light, but intriguing card. Headlining the event is an important welterweight showdown between Leon Edwards and Belal Muhammad. Edwards enters this fight a winner of his last eight fights, but hasn’t fought since defeating Rafael do Anjos in July of 2019. Muhammad too enters this bout on fire, winning four consecutive and eight of his last nine fights. This is a main event is a perfect one in that Muhammad deserves a top ranked foe like Edwards and at the same time, Edwards with a win over Muhammad deserves a title shot. Either way, the winner of this is in for better days.

UFC Vegas 21 Main Card on ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

170 lbs.: Leon Edwards vs. Belal Muhammad – This is an excellent fight and I really believe we are in for a treat here. Both men are well rounded mixed martial artist. Edwards being the technical striker whom is a solid wrestler. While Muhammad is workhorse who strikes with volume and likes to grind foes against the cage – working for takedowns occasionally. When it comes to cardio, it’s hard not to give Edwards the advantage given he’s gone five rounds with Rafael dos Anjos and Donald Cerrone – defeating both of them. However pace-wise, Muhammad easily takes it. Using pressure and volume striking, Muhammad is a tough one to outpoint for three rounds. Can he do it for five? We’ll see.

As for a prediction, give me Edwards. While I like Muhammad’s work rate better, the technical Edwards should land the cleaner strikes. As far as wrestling, I lean Muhammad, but as the rounds wane – that advantage goes to Edwards in my opinion. My thoughts are that Muhammad doesn’t have the cardio to push a pace like he does for five rounds. I could be wrong, but I’m going with that notion and Edwards to win via decision.

205 lbs.: Misha Cirkunov vs. Ryan Spann – This fight goes two ways. Either Spann knocks out the chinny Cirkunov or the Canadian gets Spann down and submits him. Given Spann failed to knockout Devin Clark and Sam Alvey, it gives me more hope for Cirkunov to survive long enough to get the fight where he wants it. So with that, give me Cirkunov to win via submission.

145 lbs.: Dan Ige vs. Gavin Tucker – If Tucker fights like how he did against Billy Quarantillo, expect this fight to be fireworks. Ige is all business and with a win over Edson Barboza, has proven he can go toe to toe with a fearsome striker. However, Tucker’s willingness to mix in volume striking and takedowns has me leaning towards the Canadian. Ige definitely has the power edge and a granite chin, but his takedown defense has been iffy at times. If Tucker can exploit it, the route to victory becomes clearer. Given all that, give me the upset minded Tucker via decision.

135 lbs.: Davey Grant vs. Jonathan Martinez – I have a feeling that between Grant’s willingness to brawl and search for takedowns, that this fight is going to be sloppy at times and a real grind. Martinez realistically should win, as his takedown defense and striking should be enough for him to edge Grant. However, give me the feisty Grant to turn this into a sloppy fight and edge it out via decision.

125 lbs.: Matheus Nicolau vs. Manel Kape – We didn’t see the real Kape in his debut against Alexandre Pantoja. He looked flat and tentative, which is far from what he was in RIZIN. While Nicolau is a stiff chest, his chin has been somewhat of an issue. I believe Kape will find it at some point, let’s say round three.

185 lbs.: Eryk Anders vs. Darren Stewart – I like Anders, but I really don’t like him jumping up and down from Middleweight to Light Heavyweight. That’s a twenty pound difference. In a fight like this, which is going to feature heavy strikes, I get nervous for Anders cardio. Meanwhile, Stewart is a tank, who throws absolute leather and has shown a grasp in the wrestling department. It had been something that cost him fights, but he’s evolving with the times. As for a prediction, I’ve got Stewart. Once Anders tires, he’s going to get cracked and finished by Stewart.

UFC Vegas 21 Prelims Card on ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET):

115 lbs.: Angela Hill vs. Ashley Yoder – Hill offers volume striking and the will to win, while Yoder just seems to love close fights and doesn’t seem to ever put the pedal to metal. While Yoder might succeed in taking Hill down, when Hill does pop back up – she will dominate Yoder on the feet. In the end, Hill get’s her hand raised via decision.

145 lbs.: Charles Jourdain vs. Marcelo Rojo – While I do see holes in Jourdain’s game, I believe his technical work should hold off the Argentinian knockout artist Rojo. In Rojo’s last five, he’s lost twice via submission. Perhaps Jourdain takes him down? Regardless, give me Jourdain to win via decision.

135 lbs.: Ray Rodriguez vs. Rani Yahya – Someone is getting finished here. Either Yayha gasses and gets finished or Rodriguez’s lack of submission defense fails him. I’ll go with the latter, as Yayha does what he does best – submits people.

155 lbs.: Rafa Garcia vs. Nasrat Haqparast – While Garcia may be undefeated, a short notice fight against a young talent like Haqparast is not ideal. Expect Haqparast to land with his usual high volume, winning via decision.

125 lbs.: J.J. Aldrich vs. Cortney Casey – This fight is a toss up, partially because I believe Casey is the better fighter, but her weight disadvantage has shown to be apparent in her last two fights. Given Aldrich is a striker though, Casey realistically should be able to out strike her. You know what, let’s go with Casey via decision.

115 lbs.: Gloria de Paula vs. Jinh Yu Frey – From everything I hear, de Paula is a fierce striker. If she can muster of an ounce of volume, than Frey has nothing for her. So with that, give me de Paula to win via decision.

170 lbs.: Matthew Semelsberger vs. Jason Witt – While Semelsberger’s debut was solid, it was against someone who might not be UFC caliber. Witt isn’t going to be a pushover, as he has the experience edge and a UFC win under his belt too. While I expect Witt to implement a heavy wrestling game, I also expect him to tire at some point. That will open the door for the volume striker Semelsberger to pile it on the veteran, finishing him via TKO.
UFC 259: Blachowicz vs. Adesanya Predictions

March 6, 2021

The UFC is back in action, live from the APEX with one of the biggest and baddest cards of the year. With three title fights on the line, this one a sure fire to be exciting!

UFC 259 PPV Main Card on ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

205 lbs.: UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jan Blachowicz vs. UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya – Gosh, this is tough. On one hand, I believe that the strides Blachowicz has made combined with his strength advantage in this fight, give me concerns siding with Adesanya here. The sheer power and physical advantage is going to be telling. Throw in his sneaky wrestling abilities, which would be surprising for some to see and he’s got routes to win in this fight. However, Adesanya has fight IQ like no other and is excellent at keeping distance. His ability to avoid being hit and pick apart Blachowicz at a distance is going to the area in which I see him strive. The dynamic abilities might not show itself as much, due to what’s at stake, but I fully expect him to do whatever is necessary to outpoint the Light Heavyweight Champion. In the end, I do believe that Adesanya become the double-champ, winning via late TKO.

145 lbs.: UFC Women’s Featherweight Champion Amanda Nunes vs. Megan Anderson – I find this fight interesting in that Anderson has a height and size advantage that Nunes hasn’t had to face. However, Anderson just has too many holes for me to believe she is the one to dethrone the Goat. Nunes wins this wherever she see’s fit. In my opinion, given what’s at stake – Nunes takes this to the ground and submits Anderson in the very first round.

135 lbs.: UFC Bantamweight Champion Petr Yan vs. Aljamain Sterling – I have argued before that I believe despite Yan being champion, that Sterling is actually the better fighter in terms of “rankings”. Yan has fought some older and weathered opponents, while Sterling beating Cory Sandhagen alone is better than anything the Champion has done. While this point has no reflection on the results, I just want it to be known I believe ranking-wise, Sterling should be ahead of Yan.

As for a prediction, I’ve got Sterling. Yan has not fought to the competition of Sterling, nor has fought anyone like him. Sterling is the complete package, being well rounded with excellent cardio. Yan might boost good takedown defense, but he has yet to fight anyone whom actually embraces the grind like Sterling. Whether it’s on the feet or wrestling, Aljo is going to demonstrate why he is the long lost Champion in the Bantamweight division. The Funk Era begins, as he finishes Yan via submission in the championship rounds.

155 lbs.: Drew Dober vs. Islam Makhachev – While Dober is a big underdog, I’m siding with him. I realize that Dober has had issues with wrestlers and Makhachev absolutely specializes in that department. However, this Dober seems like a focused and driven fighter. One whom has won six of his last seven fights. Meanwhile, Makhachev has the potential to be a champion, but the lack of fighting is making this a slow grind. That and continuing to fight dangerous, but unranked foes. Eventually that catches up to you and I think it happens here. Give me Dober to win via TKO.

205 lbs.: Aleksandar Rakic vs. Thiago Santos – I don’t see Rakic standing with Santos. I believe will try and neutralize the Brazilian, controlling him on the ground. While I do see that working for two rounds, Rakic’s lack of submission game and devastating ground-and-pound will open a window in the third round. One in which Santos will overwhelm him with power shots. In the end, I believe Santos will get his hand raised, winning via TKO.

UFC 259 ‘Prelims’ Card on ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

135 lbs.: Dominick Cruz vs. Casey Kenney – I’ve been saying that Kenney is the Darkhorse of the division and I still believe that. I’m just not sure what to expect from Cruz. This will be his first three round fight since fighting Takeya Mizugaki in 2014. With that in mind, his ability to just go at a faster pace and let it all out more is certainly on the table. In a tough choice here, I’m going with Cruz. I think he surprises Kenney here with wrestling and mixes in timely takedowns – one’s that edge him out in what should be close rounds. So with that, on a limb, give me Cruz.

135 lbs.: Kyler Phillips vs. Song Yadong – This is a tricky fight. I believe that Phillips dynamic striking, volume and grappling offer routes to victories. However, Yadong too is well rounded and has legit knockout power and experience. In what should be a close fight, I favor Yadong to get the “ooo” moments of the fight that lean it towards him. In the end, give me Yadong via decision.

125 lbs.: Askar Askarov vs. Joseph Benavidez – I like Benavidez in this spot. While he’s probably being written off because of the two fights against Deiveson Figueredo, I believe this type of matchup best suits him. Askarov is a well rounded fighter, but mostly leans heavy on his grappling. Benavidez welcomes that grappling all day. And when this fight is on the feet, Benavidez is the better striker. The only way I see Benavidez struggling, is if Askarov makes this fight sloppy and neutralizes the activity that Benavidez brings forth. In the end, Joey B walks away with a decision victory and knocks off a contender.

125 lbs.: Rogerio Bontorin vs. Kai Kara-France – I’m not super high on Kara-France, but this is a fight he should win. In order for Bonrorin to have success, he has to take Kara-France down. Unfortunately I don’t see that happening, especially considering Kara-France boost a 90% takedown defense. In the end, Kara-France is going to use his striking volume to outpoint Bontorin over three rounds for a decision victory.

UFC 259 Early ‘Prelims’ Card on ESPN+ (5:15 p.m. ET):

125 lbs.: Tim Elliott vs. Jordan Espinosa – It can be hard to trust Elliott, as he’s one of those fighters that puts himself into disadvantageous positions and gets submitted or even flat out runs out of cardio. However, Espinosa’s submission defense just lacks to much for me not to think Elliott catches him. I mean, Elliott has shown the ability to throw up submission attempts from wherever. Even if Elliott can’t catch Espinosa, his workhorse rate striking and wrestling is tough to compete with. If Espinosa had power or something other than wrestling to lean on, I’d favor him. However, he doesn’t. So give me Elliott to win via submission.

205 lbs.: Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Carlos Ulberg – I have the City Kickboxing product Ulberg winning. I just don’t see enough from Nzechukwu to side with him at this moment. The activity is just too low and frustrating for a guy who’s frame is ridiculous and potential could be something in this shallow division. Meanwhile, Ulberg is a pure kickboxer who has the tools to light up Nzechukwu on the feet. And quite frankly, that’s what he going to do. So with that, give me Ulberg to win via decision.

170 lbs.: Sean Brady vs. Jake Matthews – I’ve noticed that when Matthews gets a bump up in competition, he tends to struggle. Other than the victory over Li Jingliang, Matthews hasn’t beaten anyone really notable or relevant in the UFC. Hell, only three off his victories come over fighters still rostered by the UFC. What I’m trying to say is give me Brady all day in this spot. The man is a workhorse and destined for great things at Welterweight. Matthews is still young, but his game needs evolve and soon – otherwise he’s never going to be the contender he seeks. So with that, give me Brady to win via a dominate decision.

115 lbs.: Amanda Lemos vs. Livinha Souza – It’s almost odd for me to say that Souza, who was an Invicta Champion, just doesn’t seem like the beast I thought the UFC was getting when they signed her. Meanwhile, Lemos seems like something special at Strawweight. She has thus far shown a well rounded game, effectively taking down her foes easily and using her striking volume to over power them. If she can get some pop into those hands, we might have something special. So with that, I have Lemos winning via decision.

155 lbs.: Aalon Cruz vs. Uros Medic – Unless Cruz has some wrestling chops, Medic is going to eat him on the feet. With a kickboxing background and an undefeated mixed martial record, Medic is a prospect to watch. This may not be a showcase fight, but I have a strong feeling Medic is going to show out with his superior striking. So with that, I have him winning via knockout.

135 lbs.: Mario Bautista vs. Trevin Jones – While I think Jones is a fine martial artist, and he’s got a way of coming back in fights – Bautista just flashes potential and should realistically roll through this fight on sheer cage IQ. In the end, Bautista extends his win streak to three via decision.