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  • UFC on ESPN+ 16: Cerrone vs. Gaethje Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 16: Cerrone vs. Gaethje Predictions

    After an action packed UFC 242 that saw undefeated Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov defend his title, the UFC is back in Vancouver, Canada with another fun card. Headlined by two of the most exciting fighters in the UFC, fan favorite Donald Cerrone and Justin Gaethje looked to put on a show. If there’s anything to say about this fight, is that it’s going to be action packed and the judges can go home early because they won’t be needed for this fight.

    UFC Fight Night 158 Main Card on ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Donald Cerrone vs. Justin Gaethje – This fight is going to be amazing. I can’t remember the last time either of these fighters have been in a boring fight. Cerrone is the the type of dude to meet you in the middle and get into an ole fashion brawl. He also can pick you apart with his jab and powerful leg kicks. Gaethje on the other hand is the type of dude to throw caution to the wind and march forward no matter what’s being thrown at him. He likes to say he’s calculated, which his leg kicks and combinations are. However, his pressure and wild strikes at times are risky.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Gaethje. While Cerrone looks like a brand new version of himself, he has always struggled with pressure fighters. His last fight against Tony Ferguson reassured that. If a guy can walk through the fire, get in Cerrone’s face and backpedal him, then Cerrone can’t get off his striking attacks. Gaethje is all about pressure and aggression. Eventually his volume striking and pace is going to break Cerrone, and finish him in the third round via TKO.

    205 lbs.: Nikita Krylov vs. Glover Teixeira – This is a big fight for Krylov to catapult himself into the upper echelon of the division. However, Teixeira despite 39 years old is still a player in the division. I feel the UFC is starting to use him in a gatekeeper role, but no one is getting through. Teixeira is as well rounded as they come, and can finish you from anywhere. Unfortunately for Krylov, I don’t see a scenario where he can stop Teixeira from taking him down and controlling him. I foresee a rather easy route of victory for the veteran Teixeira, ultimately winning his third straight fight via submission.

    265 lbs.: Todd Duffee vs. Jeff Hughes – It’s been over four years since Todd Duffee last fought and I’m kind of excited about his return. He’s one of the killed or be killed fighters that takes all the risks to put out his opponent quick. Given Hughes durability and solid cardio, this return might go sour after round one. However, I’m siding on Duffee’s wildness and power to find the sweet spot and put away Hughes via first round knockout.

    170 lbs.: Michel Pereira vs. Tristan Connelly – While I’m happy Pereira is still on the card after finding him a short notice opponent, I’m upset he missed weight. Nevertheless, Pereira should put on a show and end this fight relatively quick via knockout.

    185 lbs.: Antonio Carlos Junior vs. Uriah Hall – Part of me wants Hall to win this fight and realize his true potential, but this is me every Hall fight. ACJ is going to use his superior grappling to neutralize Hall on the feet. I don’t expect too much resistance by Hall grappling-wise. When matted, ASJ will lock up a submission victory.

    205 lbs.: Misha Cirkunov vs. Jim Crute – While Crute is on a roll and presumably the favorite, I believe Cirkunov is going to bounce back in front of his home crowd. On the heels of his wrestling and top control, I foresee an early submission victory for the Canadian.

    UFC Fight Night 158 ‘Prelims’ Card on ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Augusto Sakai vs. Marcin Tybura – This is a tough fight to call. Sakai has been on a roll and he most recently defeated Andre Arlovski. He’s shown great takedown defense, a volume striking game which is rare in the Heavyweight division, durability and pretty darn good cardio for a Heavyweight. As for Tybura, while he’s lost three of his last four fights, it’s been against top five Heavyweights in Derrick Lewis and Fabricio Werdum. Tybura has pretty good kickboxing, but he often leans on his wrestling. Given Sakai’s takedown defense, it could be tough sledding to find the takedown. However, I’m confident that Tybura will slow down the pressure of Sakai with leg kicks and land a few takedown’s that will edge some rounds. So with that, I have Tybura winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Miles Johns vs. Cole Smith – Coin flip goes to Johns via decision.

    135 lbs.: Hunter Azure vs. Brad Katona – From the grapevines, I hear Azure has some wrestling abilities. Given Katona has porous takedown defense, I see a clear route to a decision victory for Azure.

    145 lbs.: Jordan Griffin vs. Chas Skelly – While I believe Skelly will win this fight, I do caution that I’m less than 51% sure. I mean, at one point Skelly had won six of seven fights with all but one of the wins coming via finish. He’s got excellent grappling and a knack for finding a fight ending submission. The problem is his serviceable striking, shaky chin and cardio issues. Often Skelly works overly hard on bringing his opponent down and by the later rounds, he’s tired and susceptible to getting beat. However, I believe he will gain top control at some point and put away Griffin via submission.

    135 lbs.: Ryan MacDonald vs. Louis Smolka – If Smolka can’t win this, I can very well see him dropping back down to Flyweight or even getting cut. In my eyes, this is do-or-die for the Last Samurai. Luckily, this is a winnable fight. Smolka’s grappling should reign supreme, as I envision an eventual submission victory.

    155 lbs.: Austin Hubbard vs. Kyle Prepolec – I guess on the strength of surviving three rounds against grappling wizard Davi Ramos, I have Austin Hubbard winning via decision.

  • UFC 242: Nurmagomedov vs. Poirier Predictions

    UFC 242: Nurmagomedov vs. Poirier Predictions

    It’s been over five years, but the UFC is back in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates with an exciting card headlined by a Lightweight Championship fight. After a nine-month suspension, the undefeated Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov is back to make his second title defense against Interim Lightweight Champion Dustin Poirier. Nurmagomedov has not fought since defeating Conor McGregor in October of 2018. Meanwhile, Poirier most recently defeated Feathweight Champion Max Holloway to become the Interim Lightweight Champion, earning him the date with Khabib Nurmagomedov.

    UFC 242 Main Card On ESPN+ PPV (2 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Lightweight Champion Khabib Nurmagomedov vs. Interim Lightweight Champion Dustin Poirier – While I have Nurmagomedov winning, there are a lot of concerns I have. Arguably, Poirier is the most well rounded fighter that Nurmagomedov has faced. He’s a legit striker with heavy hands and can put on a pace that eventually breaks fighters. Credit that to his excellent cardio. It’s also notable that Poirier has been taken down only four times in his last fifteen fights. It’s a very impressive feat, but obviously none of those opponents have the wrestling of Nurmagomedov.

    The other concern I have in this fight is in the later rounds, will Nurmagomedov have enough in the tank to keep Poirier down. If not, and with the sometimes iffy striking defense of Nurmagomedov, it could get real dicey down the stretch for the undefeated Lightweight Champion. However, with all that said, I can’t pick against the Eagle. The mans got the best wrestling and smothering style I’ve ever seen. In Nurmagomedov’s last eight fights in the UFC, he’s taken down his foes a combined 49 times. That number is highlighted by a ridiculous 21 takedowns against Abel Trujillo.

    Anyways, the point I’m getting to, is that Nurmagomedov is going to take down Poirier. Will he be able to hold him down? I think yes, but Poirier is going to make him work for every takedown and second of top control. In the end, Nurmagomedov does enough early to aid him to a decision victory and becoming the undisputed Lightweight Champion.

    155 lbs.: Edson Barboza vs. Paul Felder – This is an excellent rematch and I believe that despite the damage Barboza has taken, he’s still a player in this division. Felder on the other hand is on quite a roll, and minus the Mike Perry brawl, he’s fought more strategically of late. While this fight is going definitely be a striking chest match, I’ve got to wonder when the crazy weight cut is going to catch up with Felder. He’s a massive man and while that aids him at Lightweight, at 35 years old, a few Barboza leg kicks to the body is going to zap him. In fact, I see Barboza tearing up the body and legs of Felder en route to a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Islam Makhachev vs. Davi Ramos – At some point Makhachev is going to get a top ten fight, but he’ll have to settle with a tough grappling wizard in Ramos. And I’d a been higher on the thought that Ramos could potentially submit Makhachev, but after his most recent fight against Austin Hubbard, I’m thinking otherwise. I feel like Makhachev’s wrestling is going to stifle the grappling edge of Ramos, ultimately winning via decision.

    265 lbs.: Shamil Abdurakhimov vs. Curtis Blaydes – This is a great fight and while I’m siding with Blaydes, I could very well see Abdurakhimov winning this. However, Blaydes is younger, a better wrestler and a serviceable striker with some pop. I believe at some point he gets fight to the ground and wins this with his savage ground-and-pound via TKO.

    155 lbs.: Diego Ferreira vs. Mairbek Taisumov – This is an excellent fight and I’ve been back-and-forth with my pick. Ultimately I’ve sided with Taisumov. I believe that Ferreira’s aggressive style, which is includes some wildness to it, is going to get him caught. Taisumov is a solid striker, who excels at countering foes. He’s got legit knockout power and is going to make Ferreira pay for his looping strikers. So with that, I have Taisumov winning via knockout.

    UFC 242 ‘Prelims’ Undercard On FX (12 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Joanne Calderwood vs. Andrea Lee – Fun fight, but I’ve got Lee. I think Calderwood has all the talent in the world, but her inconsistencies fight to fight are hard to get by. Lee is on an absolute tear, winning seven in a row, three of which came in the UFC. She’s well rounded, highlighted by excellent kickboxing. As long as she can stay upright, which I believe she will, I see her outpointing Calderwood via decision.

    145 lbs.: Zubaira Tukhugov vs. Lerone Murphy – Tukhugov is probably most famous for being in the post-fight Conor McGregor melee, as well as being a stablemate of Khabib Nurmagomedov. However, he’s a really solid talent and this fight just seems like a welcome back warmup fight. So with that, I have Tukhugov winning via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Liana Jojua vs. Sarah Moras – I’m not sure why Moras is an underdog here. She’s faced way tougher opponents and held her own. Moras has excellent grappling, which is going to lead her to an “upset” victory here. I’ll say via decision.

    170 lbs.: Ottman Azaitar vs. Teemu Packalen – I’m surprised Packalen is still in the UFC, considering he’s seemingly used as a fodder in every fight. I’m going out on a limb and saying he gets sacrificed here. So with that, I have Azaitar winning via KO.

    UFC 242 ‘Prelims’ Undercard On Fight Pass (10 a.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Belal Muhammad vs. Takashi Sato – Ive got Muhammad taking this fight all day. Sato may have a punchers chance, but Muhammad is as durable and well rounded as they come. I expect him to utilize his wrestling and make light work of Sato, winning via decision.

    170 lbs.: Muslim Salikhov vs. Nordine Taleb – This is a toss up, but I have Salikhov. I was high on him arriving to the UFC and despite a debut defeat, he bounced back with a solid knockout victory. Now, Taleb is very talented and strong for the division, but he’s also 38 and has been finished in his last two losses. Not to say he’s “chinny”, but durability is starting be questionable. So with that, I have Salikhov winning via KO.

    185 lbs.: Omari Akhmedov vs. Zak Cummings – I swear, every time I pick against Cummings, he wins flawlessly. And while Akhmedov is underrated based on his consistency to flat out win, I’m going with Cummings to barely outpoint him. I wouldn’t be shocked to see Akhmedov win though, he’s very well rounded. However, I’m riding on the notion that Cummings is finally fighting healthy at his natural weight class. So with that, I have Cummings winning via decision.

    155 lbs.: Don Madge vs. Fares Ziam – Madge looks to be a solid addition coming from the EFC. He’s a savage and fans are going to love him as he climbs the ranks. My prediction is that Madge runs right through Zia, winning via TKO.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 15: Andrade vs. Zhang Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 15: Andrade vs. Zhang Predictions

    After nine consecutive weeks of UFC action came to an end last week, the lull didn’t last too long. The UFC caps off August, as they travel to China with a rare Championship bout headliner. Newly minted Flyweight queen Jessica Andrade looks defend her belt over rising Chinese superstar Weili Zhang. Andrade comes into this contest on a four-fight win streak, with the last two coming via vicious knockouts. Of course the last fight being a slam knockout over Rose Namajunas to win the title. As for Zhang, she’s won nineteen fights in a row, three of which came in the UFC. She’s finished 16 of her opponent and is coming off a big decision victory over Tecia Torres.

    UFC Fight Night 157 Main Card on ESPN+ (6 a.m. ET):

    115 lbs.: UFC Women’s Strawweight Champion Jessica Andrade vs. Weili Zhang – First off, I get the Zhang hype. She’s an excellent talent, who’s got the takedown defense and volume striking chops to beat the a lot of people. However, let’s be real. This title shot is way too soon and mainly based on the fact the card is on China and is catered to the crowd with an array of Chinese talent. Zhang being one of them.

    Let’s not forget though, Zhang has never fought someone with legitimate knockout power like Andrade. Neither anyone that will keeping trudging forward with the same pace and aggression for five rounds if needed. Despite the odds, I feel like this is a mismatch. I may be in the minority, but I believe Andrade Zhang is going to crumble when she feels the power of Andrade. It might even be as soon as round one. So with that, I have Andrade retaining via TKO.

    170 lbs.: Li Jingliang vs. Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos – This has Fight of the Night written all over it. Jingliang is a heavy handed slugger that’s not afraid to brawl and swing for the fences. He also has some strong wrestling to rely on if things get dicey. Dos Santos is a dynamic striker, whom is very aggressive and a legit finisher. He’s also very fast on the feet, which given Jingliang’s resume, it could be an eye opening experience. In the end, dos Santos has fought and finished stiffer competition than Jingliang. And given Jingliang’s periods of wildness, I’m predicting that dos Santos eventually cracks and finishes the Leech via knockout.

    125 lbs.: Mark De La Rosa vs. Kai Kara-France – This might be a closer fight then people are thinking, given that De La Rosa is back to fighting in his natural weight class. And while I’m in the belief this will be competitive, I also believe that Kai Kara-France gets the nod. He’s too well rounded to get overpowered anywhere. The only issue I see, is come the third round, does he have anything left in the gas tank? I know De La Rosa will. However, Kara-France is durable and witty enough to escape any danger that might present itself late. I believe he takes the first two rounds, ultimately winning via decision.

    170 lbs.: Song Kenan vs. Derrick Krantz – I expect this to be a fun fight, with Krantz ultimately winning. I believe there is a place in the Welterweight division for Song’s knockout potential, but in order for him to advance beyond that, he needs to start providing more output. Two power shots at a time only will go so far, as we saw in his recent defeat against Alex Morono. Krantz on the other hand is very seasoned, having fought some exceptional talent. He’s got legit power in his hands and a wrestling attack that I think bodes well for him in this fight. In the end, I feel like Song’s hesitancy to throw and being worried about the takedown gets him finished. So with that, I have Krantz winning via TKO.

    115 lbs.: Mizuki Inoue vs. Wu Yanan – The size advantage Yanan has over Inoue is glaring, but so is the talent comparison between both. Inoue is very skilled and in this case on another level than Yanan. I expect this to be a washout, with Inoue winning via submission.

    UFC Fight Night 157 ‘Prelims’ on ESPN (3 a.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Anthony Hernandez vs. Jun Yong Park – Signs point to this as being a slugfest and despite the odds, I liken Park. He’s on a nice little streak, against some formidable opponents. And I while this may be a reach, the travel and adjustment period to the time, while cutting weight can be a huge factor for Hernandez. In the end, like I said, I’ve got Park winning. Let’s say by TKO.

    135 lbs.: Andre Soukhamthath vs. Su Mudaerji – Despite the Sean O’Malley mishap, Soukhamthath is a pretty smart fighter. I expect him to entertain a winnable, yet potentially dangerous standup battle for not too long. Muderji has shown a pretty inept ground game, whereas Soukhamthath has thrived taking down and controlling foes. In the end, I see Soukhamthath commanding the fight in top control and eventually sinking in a fight ending submission.

    205 lbs.: Da Un Jung vs. Khadis Ibragimov – When I saw at first that Jung beat the Hulk, I immediately thought to myself that Jon Jones should move up to Heavyweight before his inevitable rise. Then I saw his opponent is a seasoned Sambo trained Russian, whom has had a very successful career putting away tough foes in M-1 and I quickly snapped back to reality. So with that, I have Ibragimov winning via knockout.

    155 lbs.: Damir Ismagulov vs. Thiago Moises – Interesting fight, but I got Moises winning. Ismagulov is an excellent wrestler and grinder, which could very well be enough to win here. However, Moises has the power and grappling to disrupt Ismagulov’s wrestling. In the end, the fight is close, but Moises wins on the basis of damage and timely reversals. So with that, I have Moises winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Heili Alateng vs. Danaa Batgerel – Honestly, a magic 8 ball has been the secret to most of these picks. With that said, the fortune stated that Alateng gets the job done via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Lara Procopio vs. Karol Rosa – I’m well aware that this card is built on mainly local talent in hopes of drawing a crowd. I’m also aware I know very little about most of the competitors, including these two fighters. So with that, I have Procopio winning via decision.

  • UFC 241: Cormier vs. Miocic 2 Predictions

    UFC 241: Cormier vs. Miocic 2 Predictions

    For the ninth consecutive week, the UFC is back in action with absolute banger of a card in Anaheim, California. The headliner is a Heavyweight Title rematch between Champion Daniel Cormier and the former Champion Stipe Miocic. The first fight happened back in July, and more than a year later the former longest reigning Heavyweight Champion finally gets his crack to his belt back. Only Brock Lesnar’s potential return loomed over Miocic’s chance at a rematch, which is kind of crazy. Nevertheless it’s going down and also on the card, after three years away, Nate Diaz is returning against the dynamic and always exciting Anthony Pettis. O, and did I mention Yoel Romero is taking on Paulo Costa?

    UFC 241 Main Card On PPV (10 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: UFC Heavyweight Champion Daniel Cormier vs. Stipe Miocic – While I don’t think this fight goes exactly the way the first fight went, I still believe Cormier wins it. While Miocic is the much bigger man, has amazing wrestling and has legit pop in his hands, he’s yet to face an opponent like Cormier that has the cardio to keep the same pace each round. Everyone Miocic has faced with the exception perhaps Werdum has either lacked takedown defense, cardio or a chin. Cormier has all three and I expect him to outwork Miocic for every round this goes. My prediction though, is by round three, Cormier gets Miocic to the ground potentially via a punch and submits him. And Still.

    170 lbs.: Nate Diaz vs. Anthony Pettis – I’m so excited for this fight and I can’t believe Nate Diaz has been out for nearly three years. I feel like we’ve missed out on so many fun fights. Anyways, he’s back and against the always entertaining Anthony Pettis. As for the fight, I’ve got Diaz. Despite the long layoff and the fact that Pettis just knocked out Stephen Thompson, in this fight I feel Diaz is better everywhere. On the feet, Diaz is more durable, works the body like no other and absolutely racks up the strikes. Pettis is more dynamic, yet his striking defense leaves him often vulnerable. On the ground, Pettis no slouch, but he’s no Diaz.

    Anyways, the point I’m getting to is that Diaz is going to outwork Pettis with his volume striking. In the third round, a tired and battered Pettis succumbs to the pace Diaz puts on him. So with that, I have Diaz winning via TKO.

    185 lbs.: Paulo Costa vs. Yoel Romero – This is going to be fun as long as it last. Costa is an agressive pressure power striker, who is presumably going to be headhunting for a knockout. Romero is a calculated power puncher who has some of the very best wrestling in mixed martial arts. However, he rarely uses his wrestling and elects to instead strike.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Romero. This is a big jump up for Costa and not really a good matchup for him. His agression and unknown takedown defense against a caliber wrestler like Romero is going to put him in trouble. In my opinion, Romero cleans the floor with Costa in one round via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Gabriel Benitez vs. Sodiq Yusuff – Interesting fight, but I got Yusuff. I think Benitez is is a tough out for anyone, as he’s pretty well rounded, but he’s not strong in any aspect. Yusuff though, is an excellent striker who’s not afraid to throw it. I believe his ability to rack up strikes should win this fight via decision.

    185 lbs.: Derek Brunson vs. Ian Heinisch – Part of me believes that Brunson can win this. He’s a power puncher with excellent wrestling. Then part of me remembers his recent fights and how hesitant he is to strike, which is contrary to his style early on in his career.

    Heinisch is the definition of grit and a workhorse. He’s going to be in Brunson’s face and making him work for every position. In the end, given Brunson’s lack of engagement of late, Heinisch is going to win on his willingness to engage via decision.

    UFC 241 ‘Prelims’ Undercard On ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Devonte Smith vs. Khama Worthy – I’m really surprised they found an opponent for Smith, but thank god. The man’s a stud and a bona-fide knockout artist. Given this is the ESPN headliner, expect Smith to gain stardom after this knockout victory.

    135 lbs.: Raphael Assuncao vs. Cory Sandhagen – I’m back-and-forth with this one. On one end, Sandhagen is on the rise. He’s got excellent striking, an iron chin, a relentless pace and pressure and cardio for days. He’s going to challenge for a belt one day, no doubt in my mind.

    On the other end, Assuncao while aging is durable, a calculated counter striker and has some good wrestling chops. The reason I’m leaning with him is the aggression of Sandhagen goes right into his counter punching. I also see opening for takedowns, which in what I presume to be a close fight mean a lot. So with that, I have Assuncao edging out a split decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Christos Giagos vs. Drakkar Klose – If Giagos had his cardio issues under control, he’d have a real shot here. However, Klose is calculated striker who is going to use his pace and cardio to break Giagos. I think a late finish is possible, but I’m going to go with Klose via decision.

    140 lbs.: Manny Bermudez vs. Casey Kenney – I’m really impressed that Kenney debuted against Ray Borg and beat him. However, Borg had a lot of issues that kept him from fighting for a long time. Not to dismiss Kenney’s win, but Borg was comprised heading in mentally. Anyways, I believe Bermudez is a future contender. While his striking needs work, his knack for taking guys down and submitting them absolutely doesn’t. So with that, I have Bermudez winning via submission.

    UFC 241 ‘Prelims’ Undercard On Fight Pass (6:30 p.m.):

    115 lbs.: Hannah Cifers vs. Jodie Esquibel – While Cifers isn’t a world beater yet, she is tough as nails and absolutely relentless. I feel like she coast through this fight with her volume striking. So with that, I have Cifers winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Brandon Davis vs. Kang Kyung-ho – This is a fun fight, worthy of being higher up on the card. Davis is a willing brawler, who lives to go punch for punch with his opponent. Gifted with an iron chin and some good striking chops, Davis is a tough out for any foe who’s willing to keep the fight on the feet. Kyung-ho is an all around talent, who’s massive for the weight class. With solid wrestling and grappling, which is aided by his natural strength, Kyung-ho has found relative ease in taking down foes. While on the ground, Kyung-ho has suffocating top control, as well as prowess for submissions.

    In a fun fight, I lean with Kyung-ho to lean on his wrestling and take advantage of the iffy takedown defense of Davis. So with that, I have Kyung-ho winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Shana Dobson vs. Sabina Mazo – Honestly, this fight is a coin flip… Mazo via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 14: Shevchenko vs. Carmouche 2 Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 14: Shevchenko vs. Carmouche 2 Predictions

    For the eighth consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. The promotion heads to Uruguay for the first time, as they continue there global expansion. Headlining the event is Flyweight queen Valentina Shevchenko and challenger Liz Carmouche. This is Shevchenko’s second title defense and a rematch against one of the only two women to beat her.

    UFC on ESPN+ 14 Main Card:

    125 lbs.: UFC Women’s Flyweight champion Valentina Shevchenko vs. Liz Carmouche – No disrespect to Carmouche, but I’ve said before and I’ll say it again, nobody is going to beat Shevchenko at Flyweight. Welcome to the Shevchenko era… this fight ends via TKO.

    170 lbs.: Mike Perry vs. Vicente Luque – Here’s your fight of the night. Two willing brawlers going to toe to toe. Luque though is an excellent grappler and it’s interesting how he rarely uses it. He’s developed into such a technical, yet powerful striker and I really believe he’s a contender that’s blossoming in front of us. As for Perry, the former slugger has adapted his game into a more technical approach. He’s not exerting the energy he used to when was a wild man and it’s bettered him into a legit fighter.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Luque. I think it’s going to be a close back and forth fight, then Perry is going to rock Luque and force him to grapple. When he finds ease in getting Perry down, he will exploit that to grab the victory. So with that, I have Luque winning via decision.

    145 lbs.: Humberto Bandenay vs. Luiz Eduardo Garagorri – This is on the main card? Garagorri via submission.

    205 lbs.: Ilir Latifi vs. Volkan Oezdemir – Tough fight to call, but I have Latifi. The mans a bull, who’s got legit pop in hands despite his lack of technique. He’s also a pretty good wrestler, which is exactly why I think he wins. Oezdemir just hasn’t developed enough takedown defense for me to believe he keeps this fight upright. So with that, I’ll go with Latifi via decision.

    185 lbs.: Oskar Piechota vs. Rodolfo Vieira – I don’t think Piechota is bad, but all the hype around Vieira’s ground game has me picking him via submission.

    145 lbs.: Enrique Barzola vs. Bobby Moffett – I really don’t think Moffett has a chance if he can’t take Barzola down. And given Barzola is tough to take down and in general, a tough opponent to look good against. So with that, I have Barzola winning via decision.

    UFC on ESPN+ 14 ‘Prelims’ Undercard:

    170 lbs.: Gilbert Burns vs. Aleksei Kunchenko – Fun fight, but I’m going with Burns. Despite the undefeated record and some legit pop in his hands, Kunchenko seems a bit too hesitant to throw enough volume with me to pick him. Now, Burns has had a shaky chin in the past, but I feel like he’s rolling now with solid striking and excellent grappling. Given Kuncenko’s excellent takedown defense, I expect this fight to take place on the majority on feet. However, despite that, I still favor Burns to win the striking match and fight via decision.

    265 lbs.: Cyril Gane vs. Raphael Pessoa – All I know is Gane trains with Ngannou and lives to talk about. That and he’s already knocked out three foes heading into his octagon debut. So without further ado, Gane wins this via knockout.

    115 lbs.: Marina Rodriguez vs. Tecia Torres – This is a tough fight to call. On one end, Torres is a perennial top ten Strawweight, who just can’t seem to beat the top of the division. On the other end, Rodriguez has already fought two tough foes with great success. I really want to side with Rodriguez, but something tells me that Torres is going to sneak this one out any way she can. Three consecutive defeats is a death wish for some in the promotion, so I don’t think she can afford a 4th straight loss. So with that, I have Torres winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Rogerio Bontorin vs. Raulian Paiva – This is going to be a really fun fight, but it’s Paiva who liken here to walk away with the victory. Despite his octagon debut defeat, I thought Paiva showed excellent counter striking, as well as takedown defense. Often, Paiva reversed the numerous takedown attempts in his favor. With a little more time inside the octagon, I truly believe we have the makings of a contender. So with that, I have Paiva winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Geraldo de Freitas vs. Chris Gutierrez – I believe it’s going to be a long night for de Freitas, as he struggles to takedown a more advanced fighter than his last foe. In the end, Gutierrez is going to pick apart de Freitas on the feet en route to a TKO victory.

    155 lbs.: Alex da Silva vs. Rodrigo Vargas – Ive got da Silva taking this fight. Vargas has had a lengthy absence, is making his UFC debut and eleven years the elder of the young upstart. So with that, I have da Silva using his speed to cruise to a decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Veronica Macedo vs. Polyana Viana – Both women are in desperate need of a victory. From what I’ve seen thus far, I believe Macedo gets the job done. I like her karate style and as long as she can keep this fight upright, she should outpoint Viana. So with that, I have Macedo winning via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN 5: Covington vs. Lawler Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 5: Covington vs. Lawler Predictions

    For the seventh consecutive week, the UFC is back in action in Newark, New Jersey. Headlining the card is a pair of former Welterweight Champions in Colby Covington and Robbie Lawler. Now, Covington was the Interim, whereas Lawler was the undisputed and even defended the strap twice. Nevertheless this is an ultra important fight. For Covington, a win means a title shot against Kamaru Usman, no questions asked. There is a legitimate beef between the two and Covington is more than deserving. For Lawler, this is a chance to get back into the title picture. A victory would perhaps put him in a title eliminator fight against Jorge Masvidal. Could you imagine that fight?

    UFC on ESPN 5 Main Card (3 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Colby Covington vs. Robbie Lawler – For all the antics and crap Covington says, he’s still a damn good fighter. It’s pretty evident, but his persona shades all his fighting abilities. People focus on his talking and even his opponents get so angered, that I’m not sure they take him serious.

    All that aside, I’m going upset here. Lawler looks in phenomenal shape and albeit a controversial loss to Ben Askren, he was on the cusp of finishing Funky in the first round. Lawler looks rejuvenated and as long as he can keep this fight upright and his back away from on the cage, then I seeing him landing a fight ending blow. If he can’t catch Covington early, expect the former Interim Welterweight Champion to grind down Lawler for five rounds. Anyways, I have Lawler winning via knockout.

    155 lbs.: Jim Miller vs. Clay Guida – Its pretty crazy that two men who are combined age of 74 are the co-main event. Perhaps it’s more so due to Jim Miller being from New Jersey and the nostalgia of these two veterans going to battle, although the relevancy of this fight in the Lightweight division is non-existent. Despite that, it should be a fun fight.

    As for a prediction, I have Miller. In a battle of veterans, I feel like Miller has more pep in step. I know, I know… Guida has energy through the roof and is a maniac. However, he just fought B.J. Penn and was tagged with 64 strikes. You’d need to combine Penn’s last three opponent’s strikes to equal that total. Miller should be able to tag up Guida in the clinch, perhaps rock him and sub him. Matter of fact, let’s go with that. Miller via submission.

    155 lbs.: Joaquim Silva vs. Nasrat Haqparast – This is your fight of the night right here. Both men are willing brawlers, but’s it’s Silva who has legit fight ending power. Now, Haqparast has the better all around game, but his striking defense is just too poor for me to pick him here. I mean, his toughness is threw the roof, but wait until Silva connects and we’ll see. So with that, I have Silva winning via TKO.

    185 lbs.: Trevin Giles vs. Gerald Meerschaert – I’m really high on Giles, even despite his most recent defeat to Zak Cummings. He’s the complete package if he can just shore up his fight IQ and striking defense. In this particular fight, I expect the tough, durable and no quit Meerschaert to try and get this fight to the mat. Only problem is Giles has yet to be taken down and I don’t see Meerschaert being the first. On the feet, Giles is going to batter Meerschaert and eventually finish him via TKO.

    155 lbs.: Scott Holtzman vs. Dong Hyun Ma – I feel like Ma keeps getting matched up with physically bigger fighters. Also, ever since Ma’s early wars, he’s been more gun shy to get into brawls. I’m really not sure if he’s plateaued or what. All I know is that Holtzman shouldn’t have any issues here winning a decision.

    205 lbs.: Darko Stosic vs. Kennedy Nzechukwu – I’m going to need to see more of Nzechukwu before I side with him again. His most recent fight against Paul Craig was pretty awful, showing a real lack of fundamentals. Stosic isn’t the most active striker, but he’s accurate and he should be able to edge out Nzechukwu via decision.

    UFC on ESPN 5 Prelims Card (12 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Mickey Gall vs. Saleem Touahri – I’m not really high on Gall, as I didn’t think we quite ready for someone like Diego Sanchez given his cardio issues. This fight though, is a make or break. Gall should be able to takedown Touahri, but will he be able to continuously do it and grind him down for three rounds? I’m just not sure, but I’m going give the hometown fighter the benefit of the doubt. So with that, I have Gall winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Antonina Shevchenko vs. Lucie Pudilova – Given that Pudilova doesn’t have the wrestling that Roxy halted Shevchenko with, this is going to be a fun stand-up contest. And despite Pudilova’s toughness and forward pressure, it’s the volume of Shevchenko that’s going to swarm the Czech. So with that, I have Shevchenko winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Jordan Espinosa vs. Matt Schnell – I feel like Espinosa is the better all around fighter here, and is very quick, which could be an issue for a rather big Flyweight Schnell. However, Schnell can pack a punch. If he can use his size and trap the elusive Espinosa, I feel like he can put him away. So with that, I have Schnell winning via TKO.

    125 lbs.: Lauren Murphy vs. Mara Romero Borella – I really like Murphy, as she’s tough as nails and will keep throwing punches no matter what position she’s in. However, her lack of athleticism hurts her striking defense and takedown defense. Against Borella, who will look to grind her, I can see takedowns being the difference in this fight. So with that, I have Borella winning via decision.

    170 lbs.: Claudio Silva vs. Cole Williams – I think it’s time to start giving Silva meaningful fights. He’s 36 years old, has lost four years due to injuries, is currently riding a thirteen fight win streak and hasn’t tasted defeat since 2007. O, and he beat a top five fighter now in Leon Edwards. With all that aside, Silva mops the floor with Williams, winning via submission.

    125 lbs.: Hannah Goldy vs. Miranda Granger – Don’t know much about either fighter, but Granger has beaten some really experienced fighters. I give her the nod here, via decision.

  • UFC 240: Holloway vs. Edgar Predictions

    UFC 240: Holloway vs. Edgar Predictions

    For the 6th consecutive week, the UFC is back with a PPV card in Edmonton, Canada. Headlining the event, is a Featherweight title fight between Champion Max Holloway and challenger Frankie Edgar. After several booking, the fight that many have wanted to see is finally coming to fruition. Can Frankie Edgar capture gold again, or will Max Holloway defend his title for the third time?

    *Predictions were meant to be published at 4pm eastern, but weren’t for whatever reason*

    UFC 240 Main Card On ESPN+ PPV (10 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: UFC Featherweight champion Max Holloway vs. Frankie Edgar – The road to this fight has been long. Several cancellations have delayed this inevitable fight, which all but seems likely to be a five round battle. Now, I’m not saying it’s unlikely that Edgar wins because he’s one of the very best to do it. However, his age and disadvantages coming into this fight are apparent. Holloway is the bigger man, with a reach that’s going to keep Edgar at bay. Holloway is extremely durable, as we saw against Dustin Poirier. So don’t expect Edgar to win via knockout. Holloway has ridiculous cardio, pace and volume, so what exactly is Edgar going to do that edges him in this fight? Wrestle? Perhaps, but Holloway has solid takedown defense. I guess what I’m trying to say is, Holloway takes this via late TKO.

    145 lbs.: Cris Cyborg vs. Felicia Spencer – I like Spencer, but this is a far leap in skill set. Cyborg is on another level, in fact another planet when talking about this fight. I expect the form P4P queen to make quick work of the undefeated Canadian. So with that, I have Cyborg winning via knockout.

    170 lbs.: Geoff Neal vs. Niko Price – This fight is pure fireworks. Price is a kill or be killed fighter, who is wild and aggressive in his pursuit to absolutely knock your head off. Neal is a calculated killer, who’s got legit power and excellent takedown defense to keep the fight standing. The one facet I really love about his arsenal is that he will go upstairs with head kick with authority. In a fight that’s going to be chaotic, I want the calculated powerhouse. So with that, I have Neal winning via knockout.

    155 lbs.: Olivier Aubin-Mercier vs. Arman Tsarukyan – How raw of a deal is Tsarukyan getting? A debut against Islam Makhachev and then, an enemy territory bout against OAM? That’s pretty piss poor for a talented fighter that’s being feed to wolves way to soon. OAM is seasoned and energized fighting in his home country. He’s also an excellent grappler, who’s striking is really improving. So with that, I have OAM winning via decision.

    185 lbs.: Marc-Andre Barriault vs. Krzysztof Jotko – This main card isn’t exactly the best I’ve seen, especially if this is the fight that is starting up the PPV. No offense. As for a prediction, I’m going with Jotko. As long as he can avoid the power shots of Barriault, he should be able to win based off his volume striking. So with that, I have Jotko winning via decision.

    UFC 240 ‘Prelims’ Undercard On ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Viviane Araujo vs. Alexis Davis – I feel like Davis is on the back nine. She’s tough as nails, but just too slow. Araujo is a young lioness who’s going to swallow up the veteran and take her spot in the rankings. So with that, I have Araujo winning via decision.

    145 lbs.: Hakeem Dawodu vs. Yoshinori Horie – Who is this poor soul that’s about to be to be snatched by Dawodu? Honestly, I see this is a coming out party for a special talent. So with that, I have Dawodu winning via knockout

    145 lbs.: Seungwoo Choi vs. Gavin Tucker – Not sure who Choi is, but I’ll go with Tucker who’s got good speed and power. Now if he was a bit taller, he’d be a formidable threat at Featherweight. Anyways, I’ll go Tucker via decision.

    125 lbs.: Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Alexandre Pantoja – I like Figueiredo, but he oddly got neutralized on the feet by a grappler in Jussier Formiga. That’s concerning, especially for a guy who was starching people on his rise up the ranks. As for Pantoja, he is on a nice little three-fight win streak. The last two fights, he won both via first round finishes. Pantoja has the striking, grappling and pace to do exactly what Formiga did to Figueiredo. So with that, I have Pantoja via decision.

    UFC 240 ‘Prelims’ Undercard On UFC Fight Pass (7 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Sarah Frota vs. Gillian Robertson – Frota is huge for the weight class and she looked good in her recent fight. However, I love Robertson’s aggressive sub hunting. I am a little concerned that Frota’s size stifles Robertson from getting this to the mat, but at the same time her takedown defense is what failed her against Livinha Souza.

    170 lbs.: Erik Koch vs. Kyle Stewart – Toss up, but going with the veteran Koch. He desperately needs a win. So with that, I got Koch winning via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN 4: dos Anjos vs. Edwards Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 4: dos Anjos vs. Edwards Predictions

    For the fifth consecutive week, the UFC is back in action as head to the home of the Alamo, San Antonio, Texas. Headlining the event is two top ranked Welterweight’s. One, a former Lightweight Champion in Rafael dos Anjos. The other, a rising star on a seven fight win streak in Leon Edwards. The implacations are high for this fight, as a win puts them perhaps a fight away from a title shot.

    UFC on ESPN 4 Main Card:

    170 lbs.: Rafael dos Anjos vs. Leon Edwards – Fun fight and I really expect this one to be a grind. The Brazilian dos Anjos rebounded from a tough 2018, where he lost two fights including a Interim Championship fight with Colby Covington. He took out a very tough Kevin Lee via submission, which was very surprising given his recent woes. However, the victory proved dos Anjos isn’t done and is very a much a player still at 170 lbs.

    As for Edwards, a seven fight win streak including wins over Donald Cerrone, Vicente Luque and Gunnar Nelson have aided this very well deserved headliner. It’s also about damn time he fought someone highly ranked like dos Anjos. You’d think with a seven fight win streak, you’d be close to a title shot let alone a high profile fight.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got dos Anjos. I just can’t believe how well he performed against Kevin Lee, who I see as a better version of Leon Edwards. Now I’m not saying Edwards can’t win this, but I feel his skill level just isn’t yet on par with the former Champ. So with that, I have dos Anjos winning via decision.

    265 lbs.: Walt Harris vs. Aleksei Oleinik – Either Harris is going to knock out the tough Oleinik, or he’s going to get dragged to the ground and submitted. Given Oleinik’s ridiculous experience and the inconsistencies of Harris/Iffy ground game, I’m going with the veteran. So with that, I have Oleinik.

    265 lbs.: Juan Adams vs. Greg Hardy – This just feels like its going to be a slobber knocker given the beef heading into this fight. And while Adams is definitely more seasoned and skilled, I think his agenda on headhunting to knock out Hardy is going to put him in a position for Hardy to utilized his one path to victory, power. So with that, I have Hardy winning via knockout.

    155 lbs.: Dan Hooker vs. James Vick – This is a really fun fight that probably is a frontrunner for fight of the night. Two strikers, one dynamic, and the other who usually towers over his opponents. However, Hooker has the size and reach to match. And given his dynamic game, I believe he has more in the arsenal to outstrike Vick. So with that, I have Hooker winning via decision.

    155 lbs.: Alexander Hernandez vs. Francisco Trinaldo – Has Hernandez had an easy fight since stepping into the Octagon? The answer would be no. However, with a tougher strength of schedule, he’s shown that he’s got the talent to compete with the top fifteen.

    Trinaldo is a stud, but he’s older and has shown in a few times his cardio can be problematic when pushed with a faster pace. Hernandez is going to do such, with a combo of striking and wrestling. By round three, a tired Trinaldo will get finished by Hernandez via TKO.

    265 lbs.: Andrei Arlovski vs. Ben Rothwell – This would of been a fun fight if it were 10 years ago. Now, it’s two worn down shells of themselves Heavyweights going at it. And at this moment, I’ll go with Rothwell who’s the less weathered of the two.

    UFC on ESPN 4 Prelims:

    145 lbs.: Alex Caceres vs. Steven Peterson – Gosh Caceres is frustrating. Obviously skilled, he often fights down to his competition. It could happen here against a wild and durable Peterson, but I’m hoping Bruce Leeroy shows up. So with that, I have Caceres winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Irene Aldana vs. Raquel Pennington – I love the toughness of Pennington, but you can only go so far with that. And while Aldana isn’t exactly a knockout artist, she will rack up the strikes. In an all striking battle, I’ll go with Aldana to out-point Pennington via decision.

    205 lbs.: Klidson Abreu vs. Sam Alvey – Honestly, it’s hard to pick Alvey given his hesitancy to throw his hands. A little more volume, and he’d probably be a more successful fighter. Anyways, while I should go with the killer Abreu, It’s hard not to pick “Smilin”. So with that, I have Alvey winning by decision.

    125 lbs.: Roxanne Modafferi vs. Jennifer Maia – Despite Maia’s missed weight cut, I believe she wins this fight. She’s the better all around fighter and despite Modafferi’s incredible progression, I can’t see her out-pointing and out-grappling Maia. So with that, I have Maia winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Ray Borg vs. Gabriel Silva – Borg’s stinker in his last fight has me questioning him at Bantamweight. However, I can’t see him dropping yet another low profile fight. So with that, I have Borg winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Mario Bautista vs. Jin Soo Son – This should be a really entertaining fight, as both men come to bang. My pick though is Son. He’s too tough and durable to break, whereas I’ve seen Cory Sandhagen take out Bautista within a round. So with that, I’ve got Son winning via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Felipe Colares vs. Domingo Pilarte – Coin flip goes to… Pilarte via decision

  • UFC on ESPN+ 13: de Randamie vs. Ladd Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 13: de Randamie vs. Ladd Predictions

    For the fourth consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. Sacramento plays host to an intriguing card that features the return of Urijah Faber, as well as an all important Women’s Bantamweight headliner. The two headliners come in the form of an undefeated rising star in Aspen Ladd and the former UFC Women’s Featherweight Champion Germaine de Randamie. With Amanda Nunes gunning for a rematch with Cyborg, perhaps one of these headliners make a statement that grabs her attention.

    UFC Fight Night 155 Main Card on ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Germaine de Randamie vs. Aspen Ladd – I had Aspen Ladd initially, as she has the skills and toughness necessary to contend for the belt. Her only problem and it’s why I’m switching my pick, is her brutal weight cut. The way she looked yesterday is extremely concerning. Add in the fact that this is a five round fight against a durable and tough former champion in Germaine de Randamie.

    I expect a fun fight early, but as the rounds wane, so does Ladd’s cardio. Only toughness keeps her afloat, in the later rounds. However, in the end Germaine de Randamie can crack and in the fourth or fifth round, she ends the fight via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Urijah Faber vs. Ricky Simon – I’m super high on Ricky Simon, but his last fight against Rani Yahya opened the possibility that Urijah Faber may have a real shot here. I say that because Yayha oddly outstruck and hurt Simon on the feet. Now, Faber isn’t an offensive juggernaut, but maybe this time off has changed his approach. Either way, I can’t go against the California kid in his return. So with that, I have Faber winning via split decision.

    145 lbs.: Mirsad Bektic vs. Josh Emmett – Fun fight. While Mirsad Bektic has all the skills to be a world champion, something irks me about this fight. Perhaps it’s because Josh Emmett consistently throws bombs. I mean, he’s the definition of a head hunter and he’s got legitimate knockout power. While Bektic is tough, it’s hard for me to believe the dude who got knocked out by Elkins is ready for power like this. Maybe he is, but for now, I have Emmett winning via KO.

    185 lbs.: Karl Roberson vs. Wellington Turman – Honestly, Karl Roberson by whatever he wants. Usually that’s a knockout, so let’s go with that.

    185 lbs.: Cezar Ferreira vs. Marvin Vettori – There’s a possibility that Marvin Vettori keeps this on the feet and starches Ferreira, but there’s a bigger possibility that Ferreira rag-dolls Vettori to the ground and controls him for the majority of the fight. I’ll go with the latter, and say Ferreira wins via decision.

    UFC Fight Night 155 Prelims on ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Mike Rodriguez vs. John Allan – Add another knockout win to Mike Rodriguez’s resume.

    145 lbs.: Andre Fili vs. Sheymon Moraes – This fight should be on the main card. Sheymon Moraes can absolutely crack. Andre Fili embraces the brawl. Put those two ingredients together and you’ve got a fun scrap. As for a prediction, I’m going with Fili. While there’s a good chance his defensive liabilities and Moraes power end his night, I’m in the belief that he survives the initial storm and picks apart the Brazilian with his volume striking. So with that, I’ve got Fili winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Nicco Montano vs. Julianna Pena – Both fighters have been out for quite some time. Nicco Montana has dealt with injuries and who know’s what, while Julianna Pena gave birth to her first child. As for the fight, Pena should take this. Montana doesn’t have the power or precision on the feet to make a difference. Meanwhile, Pena is a physically strong wrestler. Once she secures a takedown, her top control is suffocating. Throw in a solid gas tank and Pena rolls here. So with that, I have Pena winning via submission.

    145 lbs.: Darren Elkins vs. Ryan Hall – This is a tough fight to call, but I’m going with Ryan Hall. I believe Darren Elkins is the better all around fighter, but Hall’s ridiculous submission game and ability to thwart danger on the feet has me edging him. Albeit boring, Hall has demonstrated a solely leg strike attack from the outside. If it worked against Gray Maynard, I don’t see why it wouldn’t against Elkins. So with that, I have Hall winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Jonathan Martinez vs. Liu Pingyuan – If Jonathan Martinez worked on his takedown defense, he probably wins this fight. However, going based on his recent fights and Liu Pingyuan’s aggressive nature, I could see a scenario where a takedown wins a close round. That favors Pingyuan. So with that, I have Pingyuan extending his winning streak to ten with a decision victory.

    115 lbs.: Livinha Souza vs. Brianna Van Buren – I was pumped when Livinha Souza debuted in the UFC. With her size and power, she definitely can buzzsaw through the division. The only problem is, her gas tank needs refining. If you can survive the initial firestorm, there’s a possibility she’s gasses. Brianna Van Buren is at a size and reach disadvantage, but she’s a damn good wrestler. I believe she can grind down Souza, and also surprise the Brazilian on the feet with her quick hands. In the end, I have Van Buren winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Benito Lopez vs. Vince Morales – This should be a wild one, as Benito Lopez is absolutely overly aggressive. It makes for an entertaining scrap, but I’ll go with the more technical Vince Morales to outpoint Lopez via decision.

  • UFC 239: Jones vs. Santos Predictions

    UFC 239: Jones vs. Santos Predictions

    For the third consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. This time, with a stacked card from top to bottom. Headlining the event is no other than the GOAT, Jon Jones. He takes on challenger and former Middleweight Thiago Santos, who enters this fight on the heels of a four-fight win streak. Jones certainly is a big favorite, but Santos has the power to make things interesting. Also on the card is the female GOAT and current double champ Amanda Nunes, as she looks to solidify her legacy against former UFC Bantamweight Champion Holly Holm.

    UFC 239 Main Card on PPV (10 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones vs. Thiago Santos – Honestly, this is no disrespect to Santos, but there’s no way I’m picking against the greatest fighter of all-time in Jon Jones against the likes of him. I mean, Santos has power and has certainly earned this title shot, but this fight is above his pay grade. Jones is a technician and is as elusive as they come in avoiding power shots. He’s going to control this fight wherever it goes. If Santos puts him in any dangerous spot, t will hit the mat and end via ground-and-pound. In fact, that my prediction. Jones wins via TKO.

    135 lbs.: UFC Bantamweight Champion Amanda Nunes vs. Holly Holm – Its kind of crazy to me that the greatest female fighter of all-time was a mere blip on the radar when she fought Ronda Rousey. Even nowadays, Amanda Nunes deserve more praise then she gets. Nunes has won eight fights in a row, knocking off Valentina Shevchenko twice, Ronda Rousey, Miesha Tate and Cris Cyborg in that span. The craziest part of the streak is perhaps going up to Featherweight to dethrone Cyborg, who hadn’t suffered defeat since her debut in 2005.

    As for Holm, the former Bantamweight Champion could be fighting for her last world title. She’s lost in her last three title fights, so there definitely seems like an added pressure to do everything possible to win this. She’s got the skillset necessary and she’s already taken Cyborg’s power shots, so there’s definitely a chance.

    A chance in which I’m going with. As good as Nunes is, and her power is an enormous game changer, she has had issues with cardio. Not of late, but if Holm turns up the pace, I could see a scenario in which she has issues late in the fight. I could also see Nunes going balls to the wall early and Holm surviving the initial storm. Then going to work en route to a decision victory.

    170 lbs.: Ben Askren vs. Jorge Masvidal – Out of all the fights on the card, this has to be the most anticipated fight on the card. Credit that to Ben Askren, who’s cult following has risen him to a stardom in the UFC in which they neglected for so long. And with a UFC victory already to his name, Askren is perhaps one victory away from fighting for the belt. A title fight that would certainly intrigue the masses.

    However, in order for that to even happen, Askren will need to get through one of the more experienced and well rounded fighters in the business, Jorge Masvidal. The former backyard brawler is coming off an electric knockout victory, as he stormed into enemy territory and floored hometown favorite Darren Till. The victory snapped a two fight losing streak. The only problem Masvidal has had in the UFC, is the judges. Of his six UFC defeats, all by decision, four of them were split.

    In what could be grind of a fight, the fact that Masvidal has had issues winning decisions could be a problem. However, in Askren’s debut he was beat up early and looked a tad tired in the opening round. That’s not the norm, as Askren has great cardio. Then again, who exactly was he fighting? So with that, I have Masvidal winning via late TKO.

    205 lbs.: Jan Blachowicz vs. Luke Rockhold – This is a fun fight, as you have the former UFC Middleweight Champion Luke Rockhold debuting at Light Heavyweight against a top contender in the division in Jan Blachowicz. Rockhold, enters this contest having not fought in over a year. I doubt rust will be a factor though. The only factor in this fight is Blachowicz’s power against Rockhold’s questionable chin.

    Now, it’s entirely plausible that Rockhold’s chin has been compromised due to the ridiculous weight cut he was making to get down to 185 pounds. It’s also entire possible that we could be truly get the best of Rockhold now that he’s healthy. And with that notion in mind, and no disrespect to Blachowicz, I’m foreseeing a successful LHW debut for Rockhold. If he can get top control at any point in this fight, it’s over. So with that, I have Rockhold winning via TKO.

    170 lbs.: Michael Chiesa vs. Diego Sanchez – I gotta admit, seeing Diego Sanchez win two fights in a row at this stage of his career is fun, but it’s coming to end. Michael Chiesa is whole different animal than an inexperienced Mickey Gall. I expect Sanchez to get touched up on the feet, taken down and submitted rather quickly.

    UFC 239 Prelims on ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Arnold Allen vs. Gilbert Melendez – This is a changing of the guard type fight, and I’m picking the veteran Melendez. Despite the current four fight skid and having not won in over five years, Melendez is still a game fighter. He’s fought only the best throughout his career and nearly captured the UFC Lightweight title back in 2013.

    Allen on the other hand has yet to taste defeat in the UFC, sitting at a perfect 5-0. The last two victories though have been concerning, as he lacked the offensive output he showed in his first three UFC contests. Not to say Allen’s gone backwards in his progression, as he’s won both fights, but he’s very beatable right now. Also, Allen’s yet to face anyone of Melendez’s caliber yet.

    As for a prediction, I believe Allen will have his moments early, but as his cardio wanes and Melendez turns up the pace and presssure, the Brit will get outworked. So with that, I have Melendez winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Marlon Vera vs. Nohelin Hernandez – Vera is a tough out for anyone, let alone a short notice debuting fighter. So with that, I have Vera winning via TKO.

    115 lbs.: Claudia Gadelha vs. Randa Markos – I’ve always thought Claudia Gadelha would be a champion, but it seems like a combination of cardio issues and recent wars have hampered her. There’s a possibility she’s on the decline, but then again she’s only 30 years old. As for Randa Markos, even though she’s wildly inconsistent and hasn’t won back to back fights since 2013, she’s a tough out for anyone. Markos is well rounded and if she can string together a few wins, Intruly believe she’s a dark-horse to win the Strawweight title.

    135 lbs.: Alejandro Perez vs. Song Yadong – Alejandro Perez is a good fighter, who’s hard to takedown and won’t overdue anything that puts him at risk. However, his work rate and pace are often snail-like. Against a power puncher like Song Yadong, who is likely to land the more impactful punches, I’m expecting the judges to favor that. So with that, I have Yadong winning via decision.

    UFC 239 Prelims on ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Jack Marshman vs. Edmen Shahbazyan – If Jack Marshman had takedown defense, this would be a toss up. However, the Brit doesn’t and Edmen Shahbazyan should be able to use several takedowns en route to a fairly dominant decision victory.

    170 lbs.: Ismail Naurdiev vs. Chance Rencountre – I’m excited for this fight on the sheer fact that Ismail Naurdiev’s UFC debut against Michel Prazeres was shocking and exciting. I mean, Prazeres hadn’t lost in four years and was riding an impressive eight-fight win streak. Naurdiev showed excellent composure, stuffing and reversing several takedown attempts. On the feet, Naurdiev showed off his real arsenal. In this fight, I’m expecting Naurdiev to be in control wherever this fight takes place. So with that, I have Naurdiev winning via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Julia Avila vs. Pannie Kianzad – Julia Avila is a nice addition in the Bantamweight division and a savage. Look for her to stand out in a big way with a TKO victory.