The post-Georges St-Pierre era begins in earnest on Saturday night, when Johny Hendricks and Robbie Lawler scrap for the vacant welterweight title at UFC 171.
In addition to learning who will shepherd the 170-pound championship into this uncertain future, MMA fans stand a good chance of discovering the identity of the new No. 1 contender as well.
The winner of Carlos Condit vs. Tyron Woodley has the inside track to face the winner of Hendricks vs. Lawler sometime this summer, but Hector Lombard vs. Jake Shields could also produce a legitimate title challenger.
If ever there was a time to be bold in the welterweight division, it’s now.
In keeping with that spirit, Bleacher Report MMA lead writers Chad Dundas (that’s me) and Jonathan Snowden are here to provide their bold predictions for UFC 171.
Begin the slideshow and face the future with clear eyes…