The Ultimate Fighter 24 reaches its conclusion when finalist Tim Elliott takes on dominant flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson on Fox Sports 1 this Saturday.
Johnson has run through the newly formed division, defending his title eight consecutive times. Only one of those fights, the first matchup with John Dodson, was even close. To spice up an otherwise lackluster weight class filled with fighters Johnson has already handled, the promotion turned to a fantastic idea: a season of The Ultimate Fighter filled with regional champions, the winner of which would face Johnson.
That tournament produced Elliott, who had already compiled a 2-4 record in his first run with the UFC. Even in a division full of challengers who would be massive underdogs to Johnson, Elliott stands out. If he wins, it will be one of the biggest upsets in the history of the sport.
Regardless, it’s always a pleasure to watch Johnson work.
The rest of the card features compelling matchups as well. In the co-main event, this season’s coaches, Henry Cejudo and Joseph Benavidez, face off in a fantastic fight at 125 pounds. The winner will have a good chance at another title shot, especially if it’s Benavidez.
Welterweight veterans Jake Ellenberger and Jorge Masvidal clash in a fun matchup, while former bantamweight challengers Sara McMann and Alexis Davis meet in a compelling bout. The prelims are nothing special, but they should still provide some quality action.
Let’s take a look at each matchup.