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  • UFC on ESPN 2: Barboza vs. Gaethje Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 2: Barboza vs. Gaethje Predictions

    For the ninth consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. Headlining the event, is a Lightweight contest between two of the most exciting fighters in the UFC. If you enjoy crazy spinning kicks, then you’ll love Edson Barboza. If you like a fighter who will sit in the pocket and wing punches until someone falls, then you’ll love Justin Gaethje. One thing is sure, this fight won’t last five rounds. And the winner, will be one step closer in an absolutely stacked division to UFC Gold. Just make sure you don’t miss this one because it’s going to be action packed from start to finish.

    UFC on ESPN 2 Main Card on ESPN (7 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Edson Barboza vs. Justin Gaethje – What an exciting main event we have in store. Perhaps, it’s due to the dynamic Barboza, who will throw the craziest kicks, either debilitating your legs or putting out your lights. Or maybe it’s Gaethje, who has never been in a boring fight in his career. If you’ve ever played Rock Em Sock Em before, they actually based the two fighters off of Gaethje. I’m only kidding, but his style is essentially going to toe-to-toe and living by the sword, and dying by the sword.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Gaethje. While Barboza will probably leg kick the hell out of Gaethje in the onset, I have some weird inking that Gaethje will actually use his wrestling. And in doing so, he’s going to land some really hard ground-and-pound on a durable, yet sometime chinny Barboza. In the end, the blows will be too hard and come in bunches, causing the referee to step in. So with that, I have Gaethje winning via TKO

    185 lbs.: David Branch vs. Jack Hermansson – Despite knocking out Thiago Santos and nearly Luke Rockhold, I’m not high on Branch. Unless he lands early or he can take you down, then you’re in no threat immediately afterward. Hermansson has succumbed to grapplers, but his improved takedown defense should aide him in keeping this upright. On the feet, he’s the way better striker and has shown legit power. Branch isn’t exactly durable, so with that, I have Hermansson via TKO.

    145 lbs.: Josh Emmett vs. Michael Johnson – Unless Emmett can land that haymaker or potentially go back to his wrestling ways, I don’t see how he keeps pace with Johnson’s pressure and volume striking. In a battle of who tires out quicker, I’ll go with Emmett, leaving the Johnson the victor via late TKO stoppage.

    115 lbs.: Karolina Kowalkiewicz vs. Michelle Waterson – This is a tough fight to call. On one hand, I believe Waterson is the better all around fighter, as well the bigger threat of pulling out a finish. One the other hand, Kowalkiewicz is good striker, who should physically hold an easy strength advantage over the rather tiny Waterson. In a close one, I’ll edge Kowalkiewicz based on the apparent strength advantage that should aide her in keeping this on the feet and putting\keeping Waterson on the cage.

    205 lbs.: Paul Craig vs. Kennedy Nzechukwu – This is a pick em fight to me. Craig is the more experienced, yet physically less gifted fighter. Nzechukwu is very green and been feasting on the regional talent. In a coin flip, I’ll go with Nzechukwu via decision based on physical strength’s and Craig’s very one dimensional game.

    145 lbs.: Sheymon Moraes vs. Sodiq Yusuff – While Moraes can get outpointed in this fight, I do feel like this is too soon for the young Yusuff. Moraes has only lost two fights in his career, one to Featherweight contender Zabit Magomedsharipov and the other to Bantamweight title challenger Marlon Moraes. Gifted with power, I expect Moraes to tag Yusuff and disrupt his flow. At some point, Moraes will land and go in for the kill. So with that, I have Moraes winning via TKO.

    UFC on ESPN 2 Prelims on ESPN (5 p.m. ET):

    115 lbs.: Jessica Aguilar vs. Marina Rodriguez – Aguilar is a shell of herself at this point, showing immense toughness though in each fight. So with that, I have Rodriguez winning via decision.

    155 lbs.: Desmond Green vs. Ross Pearson – This is going to be an interesting scrap, but I believe the youth and durability of Green will prevail in what should be an all out striking contest. So with that, I have Green winning via decision.

    145 lbs.: Kevin Aguilar vs. Enrique Barzola – This is going to be a really close fight, but I edge Barzola on his ability to succeed in taking his foes down. In six UFC fights, Barzola has landed 37 takedown’s. So with that, I have Barzola winning his fifth straight on the heels of his wrestling via decision.

    185 lbs.: Kevin Holland vs. Gerald Meerschaert – Even though he’s a bit too cocky, talking a lot during fights, Holland is a rising talent. This fight is not an easy one either, but Holland’s already gone toe to toe with Light Heavyweight title challenger Thiago Santos and John Phillips. The Santos fight in particular was interesting, as Holland ate every punch Santos threw and actually was tagging him to the point in which Santos resorted to taking Holland down. In the fourteen UFC fights prior to fighting Holland, Santos had landed two takedowns. In the fight against Holland, he landed three.

    Meerschaert’s only chance in this fight is to grind down Holland and not get tired in the process. On the feet, it’s a wrap. So with that, I’ve got Holland taking this via in the later rounds via TKO.

    UFC on ESPN 2 Prelims on ESPN+ (3:30 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Ray Borg vs Kasey Kenny – Somehow, Borg managed to go up ten pounds in weight and still miss the 136 lbs. mark. Nevertheless, Borg should be able to dictate and handle the newcomer Kenny over three rounds. Maybe Borg gets a submission win, but I’ll go with a decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Maryna Moroz vs. Sabina Mazo – Other than upsetting Joanne Calderwood, Moroz’s best performance was in her last fight against Angela Hill. She finally let her hands go, which has halted her from any success in the octagon. All that aside, Moroz is inconsistencies are too hard to trust. So with that, I have the UFC newcomer Mazo winning via decision

    135 lbs.: Mark De La Rosa vs. Alex Perez – Fun scrap, but I got Perez taking it. Both will bring pace and volume striking, but its the bigger Perez who will physically grind down De La Rosa. In the end, Perez will TKO a battered De La Rosa in the later rounds.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 6: Thompson vs. Pettis Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 6: Thompson vs. Pettis Predictions

    For the eight consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. Headlining the event, is a Welterweight contest between two of the most dynamic fighters in the UFC. If you like crazy roundhouse kicks or the usage of the cage to create offense, then you’re in store for a doozy. Thompson, is coming off a controversial defeat to Darren Till. The media, including me saw it for Thompson. However, in Till’s hometown, the judges saw it for the Brit. As for Pettis, the former UFC Lightweight Champion is moving up to Welterweight. He’s coming off an epic fight against Tony Ferguson, which saw him close to snatching victory before suffering an injury that halted him from fighting back. Now, Pettis seeks a rebirth in his career, at Welterweight.

    UFC Fight Night 148 (ESPN+ 6) Main Card (8 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Stephen Thompson vs. Anthony Pettis – This fight has potential to see some crazy mixed martial art techniques. I’m talking, levitating twenty kick combos and such. Kidding aside, this is going to be a fun one. The fact is though, while Pettis is healthier at Welterweight, he is smaller and outweighed by foe Stephen Thompson. Given Thompson’s recent falters, particularly leaving fights up the judges, I expect him to be a little more aggressive than usually. More body kicks and volume from Wonderboy, leading to a fourth round finish is what I predict in this fun main event.

    265 lbs.: Curtis Blaydes vs. Justin Willis – If Willis offered fight ending power, he’d have a real shot in this fight. However, he doesn’t and Blaydes is going to dictate where this fight goes. I expect Blaydes to use his wrestling though, to tire and perhaps finish Willis via his vicious ground-and-pound. Matter of fact, I’ll go with that. Blaydes via TKO.

    155 lbs.: John Makdessi vs. Jesus Pinedo – Makdessi should outpoint the short notice foe Pinedo via decision

    125 lbs.: Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Jussier Formiga – Interesting fight. Formiga is one of the very best Flyweights in the world, yet he has yet to fight for a UFC title. Every title eliminator, he has faltered. This particular fight he goes up against a very athletically superior athlete in Figueiredo. And as long as Figueiredo doesn’t engage in any grappling, he should best Formiga on the feet. Hell, he could even knock out Formiga. But, I’ll just go with Figueiredo to win via decision.

    145 lbs.: Luis Pena vs. Steven Peterson – Pena should win this, but he looked dreadful in his last fight. Peterson isn’t exactly a world beater in any department , but he’s durable and scrappy. Two ingredients in which I feel aide him in a sloppy split decision victory.

    125 lbs.: J.J. Aldrich vs. Maycee Barber – Interesting fight. Aldrich is a technical striker, who is patient in her approach. Barber is more dynamic and well rounded. While Aldrich could outpoint Barber, her lack of finishing power leaves this fight open for Barber to bust up Aldrich with kicks or elbows. So with that, I have Barber winning via decision.

    UFC Fight Night 148 (ESPN+ 6) Prelims (5 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Bryce Mitchell vs. Bobby Moffett – I was very impressed with Moffett in his last fight against Chas Skelly. He fought out of a lot disadvantageous positions and turned them into superior one’s. Also, Moffett’s pace, cardio and submission prowess are all on point. So with that, I have Moffett winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Frankie Saenz vs. Marlon Vera – Tough fight to call. On one end, Vera is striker, who is the taller man, as well as has a big reach advantage. On the other end, Saenz is solid wrestler, who embraces the grinding victories. Now, Vera could very well light up Saenz on the feet, but something tells me Saenz puts Vera on the cage and grinds him down. So with that, I have Saenz winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Alexis Davis vs. Jennifer Maia – This is a toss-up, but I have Davis winning. In what should be a kickboxing match, Davis offers slight more volume than Maia. I could see Davis mix in a well timed takedown too, ensuring her a round or two. So with that, I have Davis winning via decision.

    115 lbs.: Angela Hill vs. Randa Markos – This is another a toss-up, but I favor Markos due to her octagon control. Both will have their moments, but it’s the forward pressure of Markos that award her the split decision nod.

    135 lbs.: Chris Gutierrez vs. Ryan MacDonald – Ehh, Gutierrez via knockout.

    125 lbs.: Jordan Espinosa vs. Eric Shelton: No clue who Espinosa is, but Shelton is a solid Flyweight who is two split decision defeats flipped from being 4-1 in the UFC. Despite early issues with wrestling, Shelton has shored up that weakness and looks primed to make a run. So with that, I have Shelton via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 5: Till vs. Masvidal Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 5: Till vs. Masvidal Predictions

    For the seventh consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. Headlining the event, is a pair of welterweight contenders in Darren Till and Jorge Masvidal. Till enters this contest off his Welterweight title fight defeat to Tyron Woodley. It was rumored he would move up to Welterweight, given his massive weight cuts. As for Masvidal, the veteran has lost two consecutive fights. Prior, Masvidal had won three in a row, including a vicious knockout over Donald Cerrone.

    UFC on ESPN+ 5 Main Card (4 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Darren Till vs. Jorge Masvidal – This is going to be fun fight. I feel like the odds are off here though. Till is an excellent talent, with solid striking and some decent pop in his hands. But, Masvidal is equally a gifted striker, whom can mix in the wrestling needed to win this fight. Masvidal has an iron chin and excellent cardio, which the verdict is out on both of those for Till. That weight cut, is just so brutal for Till. Against Masvidal, who will attack the body and wrestle-some, is going to drain Till in the later rounds. So with that, I’m calling upset. Masvidal via decision.

    170 lbs.: Leon Edwards vs. Gunnar Nelson – Awesome matchmaking. Edwards is so underrated, but Nelson hit a corner in his last fight. He looked really good and displayed some vicious ground-and-pound. I don’t expect Nelson to take Edwards down, but I feel like Nelson is the more dangerous on the feet. Edwards lacks finishing power to put away Nelson. So with that, I have Nelson via decision.

    205 lbs.: Volkan Oezdemir vs. Dominick Reyes – Fun fight, but I got Reyes. He’s too technical, and Oezdemir fades late if he can’t land that one-punch knockout. So with that, I have Reyes via late knockout.

    135 lbs.: Jose Quinonez vs. Nathaniel Wood – This is a showcase for Wood to ignite the crowd in front of his hometown crowd. So with that, I got Wood decision.

    170 lbs.: Danny Roberts vs. Claudio Silva – The way Silva decimated Nordine Taleb, I’m not picking against him. Silva via decision.

    185 lbs.: Jack Marshman vs. John Phillips – While I lean Marshman, I’m feeling Phillips more due to the fact that he’s probably fighting for his job and he just wings power punches all fight. Phillips can eat a punch too, which I imagine what he’ll do to get inside of the pocket with Marshman. So with that, I got Phillips via knockout.

    UFC on ESPN+ 5 ‘Prelims’ Undercard (1 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Arnold Allen vs. Jordan Rinaldi – I’m unsure in this fight because of how good Allen looked prior to fighting Mads Burnell. He was out-wrestled, which is exactly what Rinaldi does to his foes. However, I’m still going with Allen. He’s a far superior striker to Rinaldi and if he can stay off his back, it should be relatively easy. So with that, I have Allen via decision.

    155 lbs.: Marc Diakiese vs. Joseph Duffy – What the hell happened to Diakiese? From 3-0 in the UFC, with a hype train, to three straight-losses. Make it four. Unless Diakiese seriously worked on his wrestling, this is Duffy’s fight. With that, I’ll go with Duffy via submission.

    205 lbs.: Nicolae Negumereanu vs. Saparbeg Safarov – When looking at the undefeated Negumereanu, his resume features victories over pretty much all cans. And while Safarov is 0-2 in the UFC, he’s fought two veterans and gained valuable octagon experience. In a fight I don’t expect needing the judges, I’ve got Safarov via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Danny Henry vs. Dan Ige – This is going to be a sloppy, scrappy fight where wrestling will edge the winner. Given Henry’s iffy TDD, I’ve got to go with Ige via decision.

    125 lbs.: Priscila Cachoeira vs. Molly McCann – This is the first we’ve seen of Cachoeira since she was decimated in her UFC debut by current Flyweight Champion, Valentina Shevchenko. Given the layoff and beat down she endured, I’ve got to go with McCann via decision.

    145 lbs.: Mike Grundy vs. Nad Narimani – I’ve not seen too much of either gentlemen, but I know Narimani is the better striker and Grundy is the better wrestler. Based off that, and given my lack of knowledge here, I’ll go with the wrestler. Grundy via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 4: Lewis vs. Dos Santos Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 4: Lewis vs. Dos Santos Predictions

    For the sixth consecutive week, the UFC is back in action. Headlining the event is former UFC Heavyweight Champion Junior Dos Santos and former title challenger Derrick Lewis. Dos Santos enters this contest on a two-fight win streak. He decisioned Blagoy Ivanov and finished the previously undefeated Tai Tuivasa via TKO. As for Lewis, this will be his first fight since falling defeat in a Heavyweight title fight against Daniel Cormier. Prior to that loss, Lewis has reeled off three victories that included Martin Tybura, Francis Ngannou and Alexander Volkov. The winner of this bout will undoubtedly be within a fight of a title fight.

    UFC on ESPN+ 4 Main Card (8 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Derrick Lewis vs. Junior dos Santos – Lewis is a hell of a fighter, who has fight ending power that carries into every round. The problem with Lewis is not only his back issue, but his cardio. Against a fighter who can keep distance and recognize when he bursts, is where Lewis falls victim to his foes. JDS is exactly that distance fighter, who with experience has resorted to stay on the outside and pick apart foes. He no longer looks for that one punch knockout, knowing it will eventually come, but in the meantime to stay away from danger.

    The longer this fight goes, the slower and more hittable Lewis becomes. And come the championship rounds, I feel like JDS will put away a tired Lewis via TKO ala Mark Hunt.

    170 lbs.: Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos vs. Curtis Millender – This is a great co-main event between two strikers who I can’t wait for the world to recognize. dos Santos is a dynamic striker, who lands in volume and puts on a pace that absolutely breaks foe. He’s shown excellent durability too and is currently entering this fight on a six fight winning streak. Millender is more of a technical striker, who is precise in his strikes, all of which have fight ending intention. Millender too has a chin and is entering this fight on a nine-fight winning streak.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Millender. This isn’t an easy fight by any stretch and is going to be close either way. However, I prefer Millender’s powerful precision striking to a high volume striker in this particular fight. The reasoning, is that dos Santos is going to be in the pocket more often then not due to his style. It opens him up to be hit and one of Millender’s strikes could end it. Given dos Santos durability is solid, I don’t think he gets finished. Instead, I think Millender wins this via decision.

    170 lbs.: Tim Means vs. Niko Price – This is a favorite for “Fight of the Night”. Two strikers, one in Price who is aggressive and wild and the other in Means, who is a high volume striker with crafty standing elbows. In what should be a slugfest for as long as it last, it’s Means who I believe comes out on top. Means has only once in 39 professional fights succumbed via TKO, and that was due to an injury. His durability to eat punches will serve him well in this fight, as Price is going to land. Where Means is going to capitalize, is Price’s non-existent striking defense. The strikes are going to accumulate fast and Means is going to close the show with a standing elbow. So with that, I have Means winning via knockout.

    265 lbs.: Blagoy Ivanov vs. Ben Rothwell – Interesting fight and I’m curious to see what two years from the octagon has done for Rothwell. Anyways, Ivanov is a good heavyweight, but I feel like his career has consisted of tearing through under-skilled Heavyweights. Rothwell on the hand has been fighting the best for a long time and in this particular fight, Ivanov is probably the worst fighter Rothwell has fought since Chris Guilen back in 2008. Rothwell is the bigger man in this fight, far more busier and still has that sneaky gogo choke that tapped out Matt Mitrione and shockingly Josh Barnett in seconds. I think Rothwell once again lands the gogo choke, making a triumphant return.

    155 lbs.: Beneil Dariush vs. Drew Dober – Fun fight! Dariush is a good boxer and excellent grappler, whom has been haunted by an iffy chin. Dober is a high volume striker, who lacks power. He’s got good cardio and durability to boot. In what should be a close fight, I edge Dariush. On the feet, it’s going to be close, but Dariush’s wrestling and grappling is where he’s going to win this fight. I see a few Dariush takedown’s being the difference, as he gets the decision nod.

    185 lbs.: Tim Boetsch vs. Omari Akhmedov – I’ve got Boetsch in this one. Akhmedov has a nice kicking game and I guess a decent right hand, but the Russian still fades late in fights. Boetsch is the king of comebacks and his cardio is going to propel him in this fight. That, and his power in his hands. So with that, I have Boetsch winning via third-round knockout.

    UFC on ESPN+ 4 ‘Prelims’ Undercard (5 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Anthony Rocco Martin vs. Sergio Moraes – I’m up in he air with this one. Martin is on a tear, winning three consecutive fights and six of his last seven contests. He’s shut down strikers and wrestlers, notably finishing Ryan LaFlare and Jake Matthews. However, Moraes is so crafty and overlooked in the Welterweight division. The “Panther” is 8-1-1 in his last ten fights, with the lone defeat to current Welterweight Champion Kamaru Usman. Moraes has notably beaten Ben Saunders, Tim Means and Neil Magny. In a close fight, I believe Moraes will edge out Martin with his grappling for a change.

    135 lbs.: Yana Kunitskaya vs. Marion Reneau – I want to pick Reneau, as she’s the better athlete, grappler and striker. However, Reneau falls into lulls and seems to only step on the gas when the fight is brought to her. In what I presume to be a grinding fight, it’s the bigger Kunitskaya who I think edges out the 41 year old Reneau by decision.

    145 lbs.: Grant Dawson vs. Julian Erosa – No clue who Dawson is, but Erosa desperately needs a win to keep his second chance in the UFC afloat. So with that, I’m going with Erosa via knockout!

    265 lbs.: Jeff Hughes vs. Maurice Green – This a rematch that I feel like plays out the same way. Hughes exploits Green iffy takedown defense en route to a decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Matt Schnell vs. Louis Smolka – The odds seem off to me on this one, as Smolka is the favorite. I believe Schnell has the wrestling and grappling to neutralize Smolka and keep on the feet. And when standing, Smolka is extremely hittable. Schnell has some pop, but not enough to finish the durable Smolka. So with that, I have Schnell via decision.

    170 lbs.: Alex Morono vs. Zak Ottow – Honestly, the way Morono looked against Kenan Song, I honestly can’t envision him losing against Ottow. I mean, Ottow is tough, but his lack of activity and athleticism is going to cost him in this fight. Morono is a volume striker and I believe he will have his way on the feet en route to a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Dan Moret vs. Alex White – No clue who Moret is, but White has been around for awhile and is desperately in need of a win. So with that, I have White winning via decision.

  • UFC 235: Jones vs. Smith Predictions

    UFC 235: Jones vs. Smith Predictions

    The beast that is UFC 235 has finally arrived. A card so stacked, that there is a realistic possibility that it could be one of the greatest cards in UFC History. Headlining the event is no other than the pound for pound GOAT, Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones, as he clashes with challenger Anthony Smith. Jones is making a quick turnaround since destroying Alexander Gustafsson to regain his Light Heavyweight Championship back on December 29, 2018. Smith has reeled of three consecutive wins, all via finish. In those three wins, two come against legends in Rashad Evans and Mauricio Rua. Meanwhile the third and the latest against former title challenger Volkan Oezdemir.

    Also on the card, Tyron Woodley looks to make it four straight title defenses, as he takes on rising talent Kamaru Usman, who is a perfect 9-0 in the UFC. Funky Ben Askren debuts against Robbie Lawler, Zabit MagomedSharipov clashes with Jeremy Stephens, former Bantamweight Champion Cody Garbrandt returns and more! Without further ado, to the Predictions!

    UFC 235 PPV Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Light Heavyweight Champion Jon Jones vs. Anthony Smith – Don’t get me wrong, Anthony Smith is an excellent talent. The fact that he’s gone from a journeyman who entered the UFC with a 25-11 record to a legit contender at a weight class 20 pounds heavier than his original weight class (Middleweight) is remarkable. However, this is a tall task to think he’s the one to dethrone the greatest fighter to ever grace the octagon in Jon Jones. I expect Jones to be wary of Smith on the feet, take this to the ground and finish him with those patented elbows. So with that, I have Jones winning via TKO.

    170 lbs.: UFC Welterweight Champion Tyron Woodley vs. Kamaru Usman – Ever since Usman entered the octagon, I thought he was destined to be a world champion. I’ve said it in just about every one of his fight Predictions. However, this is simply the toughest matchup I can think of in the Welterweight division for him. Woodley is a solid wrestler who has freaky athleticism and power on the feet. Usman too is a solid wrestler, who’s shown excellent cardio and an ever improving striking game.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Woodley. The man has been taken down only once in the UFC and while he had early cardio issues, he’s clearly worked on it. Usman is so good at adapting to his opponents, but in this matchup I’m not sure exactly what he will do. If he attempts to wrestle, it’s only later in the fight I see him being successful. On the feet, both are patient strikers, but it’s Woodley who’s power offers the greatest threat. If there’s one thing Usman has in this fight, it’s the cardio and pace possible to make some noise late in the fight. Unfortunately, I don’t see him lasting five rounds. So with that, I have Woodley winning via knockout.

    170 lbs.: Robbie Lawler vs. Ben Askren – I just don’t know. Lawler is above and beyond the better striker, but he has been prone to getting out wrestled. I mean, hell, even Donald Cerrone took Lawler down and that’s a rarity given his unwillingness to wrestle. Askren hasn’t fought in awhile, nor at Welterweight, but based on the sheer fact that he’s going to be on Lawler like white on rice from the start of the fight to end, has me edging Askren via decision.

    115 lbs.: Tecia Torres vs. Weili Zhang – I feel like Torres is thought as a stepping stone in this fight. However, I feel like Torres is starting to find her groove and has shown against Joanna Jedrzejczyk, she can hang with the elite of the division. Zheng has fought a hesitant and lack of volume striker in Danielle Taylor and a washed up Jessica Aguilar thus far. I’m not discrediting her, as I believe she has a solid skill set and bright future. I just don’t believe she’s ready for the level of competition that Torres is at. So with that, I have Torres via decision.

    135 lbs.: Cody Garbrandt vs. Pedro Munhoz – I think Munhoz is a solid bantamweight, but Garbrandt is among the elite of the division. I also think this is a terrible matchup for Munhoz. Garbrandt has yet to be taken down in the UFC, so there goes grappling. Munhoz is extremely hittable on the feet, so that opens it for Garbrandt to utilize his knockout power. In my opinion, this ones over inside the first round. Garbrandt via decision.

    UFC 235 ‘Prelims’ on ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Jeremy Stephens vs. Zabit Magomedsharipov – This has pure chaos written all over it and I really believe this fight will come down to Stephens takedown defense. If he can keep it standing, his solid low kicks, fight ending power and the willingness of MagomedSharipov to brawl all aide him to victory. If MagomedSharipov can land early takedowns, control and sap Stephens cardio, then it will open up his striking. Stephens will be so worried about the takedown, that MagomedSharipov will be able to land often.

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Stephens. I feel like Stephens has good enough wrestling to keep it on the feet the majority of the fight. And like I mentioned previously, MagomedSharipov is too willing to trade shots that Stephens will abide. In what should be a bar burner, I have Stephens winning via a close decision.

    205 lbs.: Johnny Walker vs. Misha Cirkunov – Johnny Walker is starting the build a hype train with his vicious knockouts and celebrations. He could very well keep that going against Cirkunov, who has been finished in two of his last three fights. However, Walker is very wild and leaves openings to being taken down. Fortunately, he fought two strikers thus far who have yet to expose him.

    Cirkunov is a solid wrestler and grappler, which he most certainly lean heavy on in this fight. Coming from a cerebral gym like TriStar, I expect the gameplan to feature little to no striking. Given Walker’s wildness, I see a clear route to Cirkunov finding success getting this to the mat. On the ground, Cirkunov has excellent top control and I expect him at some point to lock in a fight ending submission.

    135 lbs.: Alejandro Perez vs. Cody Stamann – Quietly, Perez has won seven fights in a row. Unfortunately, I think that streak ends here. Stamann is a well rounded fighter, who mixes in striking and takedown’s very well. Perez is mainly a striker, who doesn’t throw with enough volume. He’s not exactly precise either. Stamann on the other hand, let’s his hands go a bit more. Also regarding the wrestling, Stamann has already accumulated 15 takedowns in four fights. So with that, I have Stamann via decision.

    170 lbs.: Mickey Gall vs. Diego Sanchez – Gall seems like the overwhelming favorite due to his age, size and the sheer fact that Sanchez is a shell of himself. All valid points. However, last time I checked, Gall isn’t a good striker yet. He doesn’t have knockout power to crack Sanchez’s iffy chin. He’s still raw and in his four UFC fights, he’s resorted to wrestling and grappling. I expect the same approach in this fight. Gall is going to overwhelm Sanchez early with wrestling, even take him down. Sanchez is going to evade submission attempts and make Gall work though to keep him down. By round three, Gall is going to be exhausted. Sanchez like I’m so many fights, will come out fresher and is going to break Gall with his pace. I’m calling upset, Sanchez via TKO.

    UFC 235 ‘Prelims’ on UFC Fight Pass (6:30 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Charles Byrd vs. Edmen Shahbazyan – Even though Shahbazyan was able to defeat Darren Stewart, whereas Byrd couldn’t, Shahbazyan implemented a heavy grappling approach. The fight turned sloppy with two exhausted fighters by the second round, making it anyone’s fight. As for this fight, I wasn’t all too impressed with Shahbazyan’s debut nor his regional scene fights. He literally fought cans. Other than Stewart, Byrd will be the best fighter he’s fought. Byrd isn’t the power striker Stewart is, but he’s serviceable. His grappling abilities are good enough to negate Shahbazyan too. So with that, I’ll go with Byrd via decision.

    135 lbs.: Macy Chiasson vs. Gina Mazany – I fully expect Mazany to spend the majority of the time trying to take Chiasson down. However, I don’t expect her to find success. Chiasson is strong and I see her battering Mazany every attempt. Eventually Chiasson gets in advantageous position and ends it via submission.

    115 lbs.: Hannah Cifers vs. Polynna Viana – If this fight stays standing, Cifers would win on her volume striking and the fact that, Viana doesn’t offer anything on the feet. If it hits the ground, Viana will easily control and submit Cifers. I’ll take the later, Viana via submission.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 3: Blachowicz vs. Santos Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 3: Blachowicz vs. Santos Predictions

    The UFC train keeps on moving, as they continue their global expansion by heading to Prague, Czech Republic for the very first time. Headlining the card is two rising Light Heavyweight contenders in Jan Blachowicz and Thiago Santos. Blachowicz has won four fights in a row, which is crazy given he lost four of his last five previous to the winning streak. The blame for those losses stem from a lack of takedown defense, as he was taken down a combined 11 times in three of the bouts. However, Blachowicz has vastly improved with really good takedown defense and good wrestling abilities to go with it. On the other hand, Santos too has been on a tear. The former Middleweight threat, has won three fights in a row and seven of his last eight fights. With the exception of one fight, Santos has viciously finished six of those foes.

    Even though fight is going under the radar, it’s a very important fight at Light Heavyweight. I mean, given how shallow it is, there’s a real possibility the winner could align themselves into a title shot with a victory. At the very least, a number one contenders fight would definitely be in the cards for the winner.

    Anyways, to the Predictions!

    Main Card (ESPN+) 2:00 p.m. ET:

    205 lbs.: Jan Blachowicz vs. Thiago Santos – I must say, this is a really good fight between two fighters who are surging. Blachowicz has won won four fights in a row, with some notable wins over the likes of Jimi Manuwa, Nikita Krylov and Jared Cannonier. Before this winning streak, Blachowicz had lost four of his last five fights and probably kept his job in the UFC due to the shallowness of the division and his debut knockout over top ranked Ilir Latifi.

    As for Santos, the former Middleweight is riding a three fight win-streak, with two of them coming in the Light Heavyweight division. A fresh face in the division, Santos has already climbed the ranks quickly by disposing Eryk Anders and Jimi Manuwa via knockouts. The Brazilian powerhouse has some of the most feared leg strikes in the game and his overall power and athleticism is scary for any foe.

    In my opinion, Santos has the better chance of winning this fight due his sheer power and violence wherever the fight goes. But, Blachowicz has gone from a striker with zero takedown defense, to a dam good wrestler during this four-fight win streak. Given he’s already eaten strikes from the likes of Jared Cannonier, Alexander Gustafsson and Jimi Manuwa twice, I like his chances to survive the early storm. I believe Blachowicz will mix in striking and wrestling, tire out Santos and eventually submit him late in the fight.

    265lbs.: Stefan Struve vs. Marcos Rogerio de Lima – Honestly, how can you be seven feet tall, with an 84 1/2 inch reach and not have a jab…Struve. I mean, talk about a guy who literally has a significant height and reach advantage every single fight and fails to utilize it. So frustrating! Anyways, de Lima has the aggression, power and just enough cardio to get end Struve’s night very early. In fact, Ill go with that…de Lima via knockout.

    205 lbs.: Gian Villante vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk – If Oleksiejczuk can survive Khalil Rountree, I think he’s pretty safe against Villante. I just feel that Villante hasn’t evolved, as his offense is pretty predictable. Simple combos with a power right hand. Villante also has pretty crappy cardio. So with that, I have Oleksiejczuk winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Liz Carmouche vs. Lucie Pudilova – Carmouche is going to overpower Pudilova with a heavy dose of wrestling and top control. In the end, Carmouche grinds this one out via decision.

    135 lbs.: John Dodson vs. Petr Yan – This is a fun fight and in my opinion, a really big jump up for Yan. I believe he’s got all the talent to eventually be a title contender, maybe even a champion. However, he’s fought three times in the octagon against sub-par competition. The last opponent Douglas Silva de Andrade is good, but his record is extremely padded by starching twenty foes on the regional scene. He was a worthy opponent and tough test for Yan, but in my opinion no where near the level of Dodson.

    The former Flyweight title challenger Dodson is defensively sound, has blazing speed and has power in his hands. In what should be a competitive fight, I believe Dodson’s veteran experience will aide him to win this fight via a close decision.

    205 lbs.: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Klidson Abreu – Ankalaev is a special talent, who if not for a brain fart with one second left, would be still undefeated. Any who’s, Ankalaev should be able to dictate wherever this fight goes and I believe in the end, he will get the TKO finish.

    ‘Prelims’ Undercard (ESPN2) 11:00 a.m. ET

    170 lbs.: Carlo Pedersoli Jr. vs. Dwight Grant – Honestly, this is a coin flip. Pedersoli is a volume striker, who is also extremely hittable. Grant is a power puncher, who shit the bed in his debut against Zac Ottow. Considering it was a short notice fight and he did finally turn it up in the third round, I’m going with Grant in this one. I’ll say he’ll win via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Daniel Teymur vs. Chris Fishgold – Unlike his brother David, Daniel Teymur has been a bust in the UFC. He’s a good striker with poor cardio. If he had power, you could get away with bad cardio early on. However, Teymur doesn’t have power and he’s facing a guy in Fishgold who’s fought five round fights before. Expect the pace and cardio of Fishgold to reign supreme, as he takes this fight via decision.

    125 lbs.: Veronica Macedo vs. Gillian Robertson – Tough fight to call. Roberson is an excellent grappler with a real prowess for submissions. Meanwhile, Macedo is a striker who’s shown impressive athleticism and a solid kicking game. As for a prediction, I’ve got Macedo. While she’s 0-2 in the octagon, she fought two tough customers in Andrea Lee and Ashlee Evans-Smith. Her takedown defense is shaky which gives me concern, but I believe level of competition had a role in that. So with that, I have Macedo winning this fight via late TKO.

    155 lbs.: Damir Hadzovic vs. Marco Polo Reyes – Hadzovic is a more defensive fighter, who’s too hesitant on the feet. Polo Reyes on the other hand is the complete opposite. He’s aggressive, wild at times and has legit knockout power in his hands. If Hadzovic threw more volume instead of throwing single power shots, he’d have a legit case to win this fight. I expect Polo Reyes to blitzkrieg Hadzovic early, land a flurry of power shots and win this fight via knockout.

    170 lbs.: Michel Prazeres vs. Ismail Naurdiev – Even though Naurdiev is coming into this bout on fire, this is a brutal debut opponent. I mean, Prazeres hasn’t tasted defeat since 2015. He’s on an eight fight win streak and has won ten of his last eleven fights. Expect a heavy dose of wrestling and top control from “Tractor”. In the end, Prazeres gets his hand raised for the ninth consecutive time via a submission victory.

    155 lbs.: Rustam Khabilov vs. Carlos Diego Ferreira – Quietly Khabilov has been on a tear, winning six consecutive fights. However, the level of competition hasn’t been on par exactly with that streak. Meanwhile, Ferreira is on a three fight win streak and the last two coming via knockout. As for a prediction, I’ve got Ferreira. Khabilov has slowly become one dimensional and I believe Ferreira has the takedown defense and grappling abilities to keep this fight standing. On the feet, Khabilov is comparable, but not comfortable. Ferreira on the other hand, is proving to have some striking chops with som real knockout power. I believe Khabilov will come out strong early with his wrestling, but fade quick due to Ferreira’s resistance. A tired Khabilov then will get clocked and finished via submission.

    155 lbs.: Damir Ismagulov vs. Joel Alvarez – Don’t know much about Alvarez, but Ismagulov looked to be a really strong wrestler. I expect him to rinse and repeat with takedowns en route to a decision victory.

  • UFC on ESPN: Ngannou vs. Velasquez

    UFC on ESPN: Ngannou vs. Velasquez

    It’s been 953 days since Cain Velasquez last stepped inside the octagon. That’s over two and half years. The once regarded greatest Heavyweight of all-time has unfortunately been injury plagued in his career. He’s literally only fought three times in 1,946 days or over five years. It’s a shame given his talent and what could of been. However, Velasquez is set to return and he’s not taking it easy, as he challenges one-punch knockout artist Francis Ngannou.

    The former title challenger Ngannou had a rough start to 2018, losing to Stipe Miocic in a title fight that saw him gas out and get battered for four rounds. Then, in one of the worst Heavyweight fights, Ngannou laid an absolute goose egg against Derrick Lewis. He was hesitant to engage and clearly looked mentally not prepared to take a punch. It had looked like one of the most devastating knockout artist the UFC has ever seen, simply lost his touch.

    However, at the end of 2018 Ngannou fought the surging Curtis Blaydes in a rematch. It was a career defining fight, in which the old Ngannou returning, as he finished Blaydes in the very first round. Back in the title picture, he’s now tasked with fighting one of the greatest Heavyweights of all-time and a stylistically terrible matchup for him. Given Velasquez’s lay-off and Ngannou’s one punch knockout power, the unknown will only be known once the two are locked into the octagon.

    So with that, let’s just get to the Predictions!

    UFC on ESPN 1 Main Card (ESPN):

    265 lbs.: Francis Ngannou vs. Cain Velasquez – This should be fun and I can almost guarantee it won’t go the distance. Both men are bonafide finishers. The returning Velasquez is more of a wear you down with pressure, pace, wrestling and then finish you with an accumulation of strikes Meanwhile, Ngannou is a one punch knockout artist with a limited gas tank. In what should be a fast and furious first round, it’s Velasquez who will survive the early onslaught. He’s too smart and calculated to even play around with Ngannou on the feet early.

    I expect Velasquez to engage on the feet some, push Ngannou to the cage and then take him down. The later this fight goes, the easier it gets for Velasquez. In the third or fourth round, Velasquez will TKO an exhausted and battered Ngannou.

    155 lbs.: Paul Felder vs. James Vick – This is going be a really fun fight. Both men are strikers. Vick is the more technical in-and-out striker, while Felder likes to get within phone booth range and fire off strikes. Vick is tall and lengthy, and will utilize his jab while backpedaling out of danger. Felder will try and get a hold of Vick in the clinch, where he can beat up the body and perhaps land some elbows.

    Ughh, as for a prediction, I’ve got Felder. He’s shown to be more durable and absorb strikes, while Vick has been flatlined twice in a little more than the two years. In my opinion, I believe Felder will drop Vick at some point and finish him via vicious elbows.

    115 lbs.: Cynthia Calvillo vs. Cortney Casey – Calvillo shouldn’t have issues in controlling the fight wherever it goes. She’s got a huge grappling advantage and I expect to use it. On the mat, Calvillo is a submission fiend. I expect her to eventually lock in something and win this by submission.

    145 lbs.: Alex Caceres vs. Kron Gracie – Caceres is so inconsistent it’s difficult to pick his fights. He’s got obvious talent, but he often underperform’s and fights with some really poor fight IQ. Gracie is going to easily take him down and submit him. Lock it in…

    170 lbs.: Bryan Barberena vs. Vicente Luque – Barberena is as tough as they come and has made a living out of outlasting foes with his pace and cardio. The problem here is Luque hasn’t shown to have problems with pace and cardio. Luque is an excellent welterweight who has solid grappling and legit knockout power. This fight should be tough in regards to Barberena’s durability, but Luque will eventually crack it and win via TKO.

    145 lbs.: Andre Fili vs. Myles Jury – This is a tough fight to call and should be relatively close. Fili is the more aggressive and an overall wild fighter, while Jury is more patient and lives to counter punch foes. Fili has some wrestling chops, but elects to keep the fight on the feet. Jury mixes in striking and takedowns well. In what should be a close fight, I have Jury eking this one out via decision.

    UFC on ESPN 1 ‘Prelims’ Undercard (ESPN):

    135 lbs.: Jimmie Rivera vs. Aljamain Sterling – This is an awesome fight. At first I was leaning Sterling, but Rivera is just so well rounded. He’s yet to be taken down in the UFC and while Sterling has excellent wrestling and grappling, I just feel Rivera has almost impenetrable takedown defense to negate it. On the feet, Sterling has vastly improved his boxing to go with his strong kicking game. Rivera meanwhile is top notch boxer who thrives in the pocket. He’s got solid fight IQ and he’s just a bonafide winner. So with that, I have Rivera outpointing Sterling en route to a decision victory.

    135 lbs.: Manny Bermudez vs. Benito Lopez – Bermudez has been on a tear since joining the UFC and I don’t see it stopping anytime soon. So with that, I have Bermudez winning via submission.

    125 lbs.: Ashlee Evans-Smith vs. Andrea Lee – Evans-Smith is better than what she displays. Her issues stem from her not using her strength, wrestling. Evans-Smith often keeps the fight standing and throws all her energy into power shots. As for Lee, she’s a more polished striker who has shown to have a strong clinch game. Lee can also wrestle-some which might aide her in keeping Evans-Smith off her. In the end, I think Lee just eek’s our a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Scott Holtzman vs. Nik Lentz – Holtzman has been on a nice little streak here and has shown improvements each fight. Meanwhile Lentz has been up and down since returning to Lightweight. In what should be a fairly competitive fight, I think it comes down to cardio and pace. Lentz has had problems in those areas, where as Holtzman has thrived. So with that, I have Holtzman winning via decision.

    UFC on ESPN 1 ‘Prelims’ Undercard (ESPN+):

    115 lbs. Jodie Esquibel vs. Jessica Penne: Despite the lengthy absence from the octagon, I believe Penne will use her height and jab to outpoint Esquibel via decision

    135 lbs.: Renan Barao vs. Luke Sanders – Barao is clearly a shell of himself, which is crazy given the run he had in the WEC/UFC. He was once regarded by some to be the best pound for pound fighter, and now he’s fallen to the bottom of the prelims. As for this fight, Sanders is dangerous and the better fighter at this stage. However, he’s got some of the worse fight IQ I’ve seen. He’s wasting his talent because of it and I think it continues to haunt him here. So with that, I have Barao winning via decision.

    115 lbs.: Alexandra Albu vs. Emily Whitmire – This should be interesting. Whitmire is the more technical fighter, while Albu is more of a technical mess. However, while being a technical mess, Albu has shown to be rather fast and powerful. She throws in volume too, which should aide her in the yes of the judges. So with that, I have Albu winning via decision.

  • UFC 234: Adesanya vs. Silva Predictions

    UFC 234: Adesanya vs. Silva Predictions

    In a crazy turn of events, the Middleweight title main event pitting Champion Robert Whittaker and Kelvin Gastelum is off. Unfortunately, sometime after the weigh-ins, Whittaker felt pain in his abdomen. It turned out to be serious, as Whittaker suffered a hernia injury that requires surgery. A real bummer.

    The new headliner now, is Israel Adesanya and Anderson Silva. It was dubbed a title eliminator, but those plans seem tough now that Kelvin Gastelum should still be next in line for a title shot given the unfortunate circumstances. As for the fight, it’s a battle between a legend and the future. Two stylistically similar fighters separated by age and accomplishments. A fight in which every expert expects to end with Adesanya winning via knockout. However, mixed martial arts is unpredictable and these are the same experts who claimed Jose Aldo was washed up. One thing I know, is that anything can happen and I would count out the “Spider” Silva yet…

    UFC 234 PPV Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Anderson Silva vs. Israel Adesanya – Welp, due to Robert Whittaker pulling out of the main event with an injury, it’s Adesanya and Silva who will share the PPV spotlight. Adesanya is the future, there’s no doubt about it. He’s a perfect 15-0, with four wins coming in the UFC. In his last fight, he proved he’s the real deal, as he absolutely starched Derek Brunson in the first round. Now, he faces the biggest challenge of his career, Anderson Silva.

    The former Middleweight king has not fought in two years and is now 43 years old. With only four fights in four years, the legend’s career is clearly on the doorstep. However, I’m not sold he’s washed up yet. And while I’m sold on Adesanya being the future, I have a weird feeling about this fight. I feel like Silva has Adesanya too emotional and he’s going to get star struck being across the cage from a legend. Before Adesanya wakes up, it’s too late, as Anderson Silva turned back the clock with a knockout.

    155 lbs.: Lando Vannata vs. Marcos Rosa Mariano – This fight is purely for Vannata to land a highlight reel knockout. Mariano barely has an over .500 record and is a live by the sword, die by the sword fighter. In a mismatch, it’s Vannata who obliterates Mariano with a roundhouse kick knockout.

    145 lbs.: Rani Yahya vs. Ricky Simon – This is a very intriguing fight. Yahya is master submission artist, but his cardio absolutely fades late in the fight. As long as Simon can survive any dangerous positions early, I see him taking it to Yayha late. I’m high on Simon and I see him taking a big step in this fight. Simon will weather the early storm and TKO Yayha in the third round.

    125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Nadia Kassem – This may just be one of the best fights on the card. Both girls are scrappy, and I just envision this being an exciting scramble-fest of a fight. De La Rosa might just catch Kassem with a submission, but Kassem is such a gamer. I can see her getting in and out of dangerous spots and keep coming forward. In a close fight, the octagon control of Kassem aids her to a split decision victory.

    205 lbs.: Jim Crute vs. Sam Alvey – I honestly didn’t see anything in Crute’s debut to suggest he’s going to beat Alvey. The veteran has good takedown defense, cardio and has that sneaky one punch knockout power. Alvey may not strike with volume, but he’s accurate and that’s all he needs to be against Crute. So with that, I have Alvey winning via decision.

    UFC 234 ESPN “Prelims” Card (8 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Dong Hyun Ma vs. Devonte Smith – What an awesome fight. Two heavy hitting sluggers are going to go punch for punch. However, it’s Smith who’s going to survive the brawl, as he’s shown to have legit one punch knockout power.

    145 lbs.: Austin Arnett vs. Shane Young – This should turn into a grappling affair courtesy of Young. I see him taking down Arnett several times en route to a decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Kai Kara-France vs. Raulian Paiva – No clue who Paiva is, but Kara-France looks to have potential in the Flyweight division. Obviously the division is a question mark going forward, but Kara-France has the power to climb the ranks quick. So with that, I have Kara-France winning via knockout.

    135 lbs.: Teruto Ishihara vs. Kyung Ho Kang – Ishihara has lost four of his last five fights and is again competing at Bantamweight for some reason. He’s also fighting a stud in Kang. That’s dumb. Kang is a well rounded talent, who’s grappling will easily take Ishihara down. On the ground, Kang has superior top control and will end this via submission.

    UFC 234 Fight Pass “Prelims” Card (6:30 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Callan Potter vs. Jalin Turner – Potter seems like an all or nothing fighter, with a finish or be finished mentality. Unfortunately, I’m not impressed with his competition thus far. Turner, despite the 7-4 record, is a talent. He’s massive for the weight class and his reach is going to give a lot of foes problems. I see him picking apart Potter on the feet and eventually the strikes add up, leading to a TKO victory.

    135 lbs.: Wuliji Buren vs. Jonathan Martinez – Buren hasn’t fared well thus far in UFC tenure, going 0-2. In a must-win fight, I just don’t think Buren has the talent to get over the hump and save his job. So with that, I have Martinez winning via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 2: Assuncao vs. Moraes II Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 2: Assuncao vs. Moraes II Predictions

    The UFC and ESPN hit a home run in their debut card to kick off their five year partnership. Now, they look to keep the momentum going as they head to Fortaleza, Brazil with an excellent Bantamweight rematch of Raphael Assuncao and Marlon Moraes headlining the card. The winner should be in line for a title shot, but with current Bantamweight Champion T.J. Dillashaw clamoring for a rematch against Flyweight Champion Henry Cejudo, the winner of this could be unfairly left out of the title picture. Also on the card, Jose Aldo returns and BJJ wizard Demian Maia looks to end his three fight skid.

    Without further ado, to the Predictions!

    UFC on ESPN+ 2 Main Card (8 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Raphael Assuncao vs. Marlon Moraes – This is a fun rematch and it really could go either way. However, I’ve got Moraes. I believe Assuncao got him at the right time, early into his UFC career. Now, Moraes has settled down and he’s starching top bantamweight’s in one round. I mean, he ended Jimmie Rivera’s twenty fight win streak in 33 seconds. That’s crazy. As for Assuncao, it’s a crying shame he hasn’t fought for the title. He’s won eleven of his last twelve fights, which includes wins over Moraes, current Bamtamweight Champion T.J. Dillashaw, Pedro Munhoz and Aljamain Sterling. Assuncao is not over powering in any aspect, but he’s well rounded and has cardio for days.

    Anyways, I believe Moraes is slightly better everywhere than Assuncao and with this new mean streak of knocking people out, he’s a little scarier than before. So with that, I have Moraes winning via decision.

    145 lbs.: Jose Aldo vs. Renato Moicano – Awesome fight and yet another fighter on the card critics consider washed up. I mean, Aldo is only 32 years old and has only lost to two fighters in over 13 years. And in this fight, I can’t see him losing. Moicano is an excellent grappler and underrated striker, but he’s not taking down Aldo and not out striking him. It’s possible he could crack Aldo, but I’m taking my chances on the “washed up” Aldo to win this via decision.

    170 lbs.: Demian Maia vs. Lyman Good – Maia has literally lost three fights in a row to the top three Welterweight’s in the division. He’s old, but I don’t think washed up. Cardio might be an issue, but Maia should control Good for at least two rounds en route to a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Charles Oliveira vs. David Teymur – Great Fight, but I’ve got Teymur. I believe Oliveira will unquestionably try and takedown Teymur. On the mat, he’s simply a submission wizard. However Teymur has shown solid takedown defense and Oliveira really doesn’t have the wrestling chops to put Teymur on his back. On the feet, Teymur is the better of the two and should have no problem outpointing the Brazilians route to a decision victory.

    205 lbs.: Justin Ledet vs. Johnny Walker – I was super high on Ledet, but he seems like a bust of late. In my opinion, his woes continue as Walker’s significant power advantage pays dividends in this fight. So with that, I have Walker winning via knockout.

    115 lbs.: Livinha Souza vs. Sarah Frota – Did Frota really miss weight by 7 pounds? Doesn’t matter though, Souza is going to steamroll her anyways. So with that, I have Souza winning via submission.

    UFC on ESPN+ 2 Prelims (5 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Anthony Hernandez vs. Markus Perez – I mean, C’mon…Coin flip says Markus Perez via decision.

    125 lbs.: Mara Romero Borella vs. Taila Santos – I’m not convinced with Santos based on her resume thus far. Borella has been on a roll of late and I see her using some takedowns to edge out Santos via decision.

    170 lbs.: Thiago Alves vs. Max Griffin – Alves is all but a shell of his former self. This is a winnable fight, but Griffin has shown the ability to fight smart and pick apart foes on the outside. So with that, I have Griffin winning via decision.

    265 lbs.: Junior Albini vs. Jair Rozenstruik – No clue who Rozenstruik is, but big baby Albini doesn’t offer anything other than a punchers chance. So with that, I got Rozenstruik winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Felipe Dias Colares vs. Geraldo de Freitas Jr. – Who? Corales via decision.

    135 lbs.: Said Nurmagomedov vs. Ricardo Ramos – Nurmagomedov might be an awesome grappler, but I wasn’t too impressed with him in his debut against Justin Scoggins. Ramos has been rolling of late and handled a rather big Bantamweight in Kyung Ho Kang. I think he can keep this on the feet the majority of the feet and outpoint Nurmagomedov on the feet en route to decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Magomed Bibulatov vs. Rogerio Bontorin – Bibulatov is a talented Flyweight and despite the recent setback against Moraga, he should get back on track here rather easily. So with that, I have Bibulatov winning via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN+ 1: Cejudo vs. Dillashaw Predictions

    UFC on ESPN+ 1: Cejudo vs. Dillashaw Predictions

    A new era is upon mixed martial arts, as the sports news powerhouse ESPN is the new home of the UFC. From a sport that was shunned 25 years ago, the UFC has legitimized and aided mixed martial arts to the mainstream. To have been on FOX for seven years and now ESPN, the rise of mixed martial arts has been beyond unthinkable. I mean, mixed martial arts was banned in many states in the United States, as well as in countries. To think, 25 years later, ESPN which is owned by Disney is hosting the sport is just awesome.

    To kick off the ESPN era, the UFC has loaded the inaugural ESPN fight card with a hell of a headliner. UFC Flyweight Champion Henry Cejudo will look to make his first title defense since defeating longtime Flyweight Champion Demetrius Johnson, as he takes on Bantamweight Champion T.J. Dillashaw. The Bantamweight kingpin Dillashaw is shooting his shot, as he is dropping down to Flyweight for the chance of becoming a simultaneous Champion at two different weight classes. Cejudo on the other hand, is fighting not only to stay Champion, but for the Flyweight division. There have been rumors, as well as telling signs that the Flyweight division hangs in the balance in this fight. If Cejudo wins, it remains. If he loses, there’s a big chance it’s folded. The stakes are high in the UFC’s ESPN debut!

    Anyways, to the Predictions!

    ESPN+ Main Card (10 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Flyweight Champion Henry Cejudo vs. Bantamweight Champion TJ Dillashaw – This is a tough fight to call. Both men are talented and each has there route to winning this fight. I believe Dillashaw is the better overall fighter, but how compromised is he heading into this fight? When your as lean as him, ten pounds is a serious amount of weight to lose. I mean, you need a certain amount of fat in your body, otherwise organs will fail. Science aside, he made the weight, looked like a jacked Skeltor and didn’t need to be held up like depleted fighters have had to in the past.

    With that said, I’ve got Dillashaw winning. I believe Cejudo is an improved striker and his wrestling abilities are among the best, but Dillashaw has the movement and wrestling chops to limit Cejudo’s wrestling. On the feet, Dillashaw is just head and shoulders above Cejudo. And as he’s shown, he’s got legit power and his arsenal of leg kicks make him a scary out for anyone. So with that, I have Dillashaw winning via late TKO and becoming a double champ.

    265 lbs.: Allen Crowder vs. Greg Hardy – You may not like him, but Hardy is an athlete and has legit power in his hands. Crowder has chance to become a very popular man if he can get the job done here, but I just don’t see it. Hardy comes out fast and furious and puts Crowder to sleep in the first round. Hardy via knockout.

    155 lbs.: Gregor Gillespie vs. Yancy Medeiros – Gillespie is a force to be reckon with and while Medeiros is a tough out for anyone, against grapplers he just hasn’t fared well at all. I expect Gillespie to strike with Medeiros for a bit, then easily take him down. Once on the ground, at some point Gillespie sinks in a submission.

    125 lbs.: Joseph Benavidez vs. Dustin Ortiz – Initially I was all over Ortiz in this rematch, but last fight I doubted Benavidez and he absolutely demolished a promising Flyweight in Alex Perez. In a close fight, I have Benavidez once again topping Ortiz. I believe the grappling of both negates each other, but it’s the striking where Benavidez edges Ortiz out via decision.

    125 lbs.: Rachael Ostovich vs. Paige VanZant – Fun fight and kudos to Ostovich for making this a point to fight after being a victim of domestic abuse. She had every right to not fight, but she wanted and even begged to stay on the card. That’s unbelievable and I respect her courage. As for the fight, I believe VanZant is the better overall fighter. On the feet, she should be able to have her way and when Ostovich tries to take her down, I see a reversal of position leading to a TKO finish.

    205 lbs.: Karl Roberson vs. Glover Teixeira – It’s pretty clear, Teixeira is no longer in his prime and has lost a step. It’s a real bummer too, especially considering Visa issues cost him from being in the UFC way earlier than when he arrived. Anyways, as for this fight, there’s a real possibility Teixeira gets starched. However, Roberson is a Middleweight and I feel like if Teixeira uses his size to get this to the mat. On the ground, he should finish this via submission.

    ESPN Prelims (8 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Donald Cerrone vs. Alexander Hernandez – Man I love this fight. Cerrone looked great in his last fight, halting all the doubters that he was done. I for one wasn’t one of those doubters, as I picked him to beat Mike Perry. However, this go around I don’t have Cerrone winning. I believe that at Lightweight, he’s too compromised from the weight cut. And against a pressure fighter with power like Hernandez, I just can’t see how he doesn’t get dropped and finished at some point. I could be wrong, but I think young lion is a future title contender and this is a big way to catapult yourself into the top ten only three UFC fights in. So with that, I have Hernandez winning via TKO.

    125 lbs.: Joanne Calderwood vs. Ariane Lipski – If it wasn’t evident, Calderwood is not a strawweight. She’s simply too big and her weight cut clearly took a lot out of her. In two UFC Flyweight bouts, she’s dispatched both foes and looked like the Calderwood we saw potential in. Now, Lipski looks to be a talent, but I just feel like Calderwood at Flyweight is a tough out for anyone. Especially someone making there UFC debut. So with that, I have Calderwood winning via decision.

    205 lbs.: Alonzo Menifield vs. Vinicius Castro – Menifield is the real deal and it’s only a matter of time before he climbs the ranks of a relatively shallow Light Heavyweight division. Get ready to see a star born, as I see Menifield starching Castro via Knockout.

    135 lbs.: Mario Bautista vs. Cory Sandhagen – Don’t know much about Bautista, but Sandhagen has the looks of a future contender. He’s already beaten a veteran, got out of a what looked to be a fight ending armbar and his striking abilities are solid. So with that, I have Sandhagen winning via TKO.

    ESPN+ Prelims (6:30 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Dennis Bermudez vs. Te Edwards – Bermudez has lost four fights in a row, three by split decision. If I’m being honest too, I had him winning all three. Now at lightweight, he might be undersized, but his wrestling should aide him in this fight. Normally I’d say Bermudez via decision, but with three split decision losses in a row, I think he gets a TKO victory.

    170 lbs.: Belal Muhammad vs. Geoff Neal – I’m conflicted, as both men are talented. Neal, is the bigger and more athletic of the two. I’d say he’s a better striker with legit power as well. However, Muhammad is durable, a serviceable striker and is a willing wrestler. In a close fight, I believe the cage control and takedown’s of Muhammad earn him the close decision victory.

    170 lbs.: Chance Rencountre vs. Kyle Stewart – I’m not familiar with either, but Stewart has an impressive resume thus far. And despite Stewart taking this fight being on short notice, I’ll side with him via decision