UFC Matchmaking Bulletin (6/20-6/25): Romanov Meets Tybura In Utah

MMA News has you covered with this week’s UFC matchmaking bulletin, featuring fights for surging heavyweight Alexandr Romanov, Mexican bantamweight Irene Aldana, entertaining flyweight Francisco Figueiredo, strawweight prospect Diana Belbi??, and lightweight mainstay Michael Johnson. With UFC cards being held most weekends, Mick Maynard and Sean Shelby have their matchmaking work cut out if they’re to fill them, meaning…

Continue Reading UFC Matchmaking Bulletin (6/20-6/25): Romanov Meets Tybura In Utah at MMA News.

MMA News has you covered with this week’s UFC matchmaking bulletin, featuring fights for surging heavyweight Alexandr Romanov, Mexican bantamweight Irene Aldana, entertaining flyweight Francisco Figueiredo, strawweight prospect Diana Belbi??, and lightweight mainstay Michael Johnson.

With UFC cards being held most weekends, Mick Maynard and Sean Shelby have their matchmaking work cut out if they’re to fill them, meaning new bouts are confirmed each and every week.

It’s been a relatively quiet few days in terms of big announcements, but there was one notable adjustment to the upcoming UFC 276 pay-per-view card, which you can read about by following the link below:

If you’ve had your fix of big announcements since last Monday, scroll down and check out this week’s matchmaking bulletin, featuring a number of bouts that may have flown under your radar between June 20 and June 25.

Michael Johnson vs. Jamie Mullarkey – UFC Vegas 58 (July 9)

UFC Vegas 58 is looking likely to be the under-the-radar card of July, with the other four, UFC 276, UFC Long Island, UFC London, and UFC 277, set to be stacked from top to bottom.

While the lack of name value on the July 9 card hasn’t been helped by the cancelation of former bantamweight champion Cody Garbrandt’s fight against Rani Yahya, it’s received a sizable boost this week with the addition of an exciting lightweight matchup between Michael Johnson and Jamie Mullarkey.

Johnson (20-17) has faced the best since arriving in the UFC back in 2010. Given that he’s defeated the likes of Tony Ferguson, Dustin Poirier, and Edson Barboza, and fallen short against a number of elite fighters, including Khabib Nurmagomedov, Beneil Dariush, and Justin Gaethje, his nearly-even record is certainly not an accurate measure of his talent.

If anyone needed a reminder of Johnson’s abilities following the four-fight skid he went on between 2019 and 2021, the 36-year-old’s latest appearance likely provided just that. At UFC Vegas 54, “The Menace” brutally knocked out Alan Patrick. Johnson will now look to prove his post-fight claim as one of the division’s best strikers when he makes his second appearance in a calendar year for the first time since 2019.

He’ll certainly have the chance to display his standup skills again when he shares the cage with Mullarkey (14-5) on July 9. The Australian has 10 knockouts in 14 wins, two of which came in 2021 against Khama Worthy and Devonte Smith. But after turning around his 0-2 UFC start with a pair of triumphs last year, Mullarkey failed to make it three in a row at UFC 272 in March, falling to a second-round TKO against Jalin Turner.

While Johnson will be looking to further spark his resurgence with a two-fight win streak, the 27-year-old Mullarkey will have his sights set on a return to the win column at UFC Vegas 58.

This matchup was first reported by @Bendaman2001 on Twitter.

Alex Morono vs. Matthew Semelsberger – UFC 277 (July 30)

With just over a month to go until the promotion returns to Dallas for its UFC 277 pay-per-view, a welterweight scrap between Alex Morono and Matthew Semelsberger has been announced,

Morono (21-7) has had alternating returns in recent years. While 2019 saw him go unbeaten at 2-0, his form in the Octagon dipped the following year, with defeats to Khaos Williams and former lightweight titleholder Anthony Pettis surrounding a sole victory over recently crowned Cage Warriors champion Rhys McKee.

But like 2019, “The Great White” went perfect in 2021, recording a first-round TKO over UFC vet Donald Cerrone, as well as unanimous decision wins against David Zawada and Mickey Gall. The 31-year-old will look to make it four in a row when he squares off with Semelsberger (10-3).

“Semi the Jedi” has gone 5-1 since making his UFC debut in 2020, with two wins on either side of a unanimous decision defeat to Williams. After rebounding with an emphatic knockout victory over Martin Sano Jr. last September at UFC 266, Semelsberger outpointed AJ Fletcher at UFC Vegas 50 in March.

While the Maryland native will be targeting his first three-fight win streak in the UFC, Morono will be looking to prevent that from happening with his fourth straight triumph.

This bout was first reported by ESPN MMA.

Alexandr Romanov vs. Marcin Tybura – UFC 278 (August 20)

The heavyweight title picture has a lot of bodies at the moment, and it could be facing the addition of another come August 20.

At UFC 278, Alexandr Romanov (16-0), long tipped by many as a future championship contender, will face a true litmus test of his potential. The Moldovan has made a big impact since arriving in the Octagon, going 5-0. That slate includes a memorable submission victory over Marcos Rogério de Lima, which came via the UFC’s first-ever forearm choke.

While a split decision win against Juan Espino, which came after Romanov was unable to continue following an accidental groin strike, partially stalled his fast rise, “King Kong” has firmly returned to his finishing ways in his last two outings, defeating Jared Vanderaa via TKO and Chase Sherman with a key lock submission.

Having ascended to #13 in the rankings, Romanov is set for a steep step-up in competition, which will come in the form of Marcin Tybura (22-7) at the August pay-per-view. While a decision defeat last time out to perennial contender Alexander Volkov prevented the Polish powerhouse from improving on his #10 place, his form beforehand was impressive.

After going 4-5 in his first nine UFC outings, the former M-1 Global Heavyweight Champion went on a run that saw him collect five straight wins, including over Sergey Spivak, Ben Rothwell, and Greg Hardy.

Having been initially been scheduled to welcome Romanov to the UFC back in 2020, a bout that fell through after the then-newcomer tested positive for COVID-19, “Tybur” will look to stall the Moldovan’s rise two years on.

This matchup was officially announced through a UFC press release.

Jared Gordon vs. Leonardo Santos – UFC 278 (August 20)

In another notable bout added to Utah’s first UFC pay-per-view in the past week, lightweight veterans Leonardo Santos and Jared Gordon are set to collide.

Gordon (18-5) has gone 3-1 since a knockout defeat to former UFC Lightweight Champion and number one contender Charles Oliveira. But after a trio of victories over former Cage Warriors titleholder Chris Fishgold, Danny Chavez, and Joe Solecki, “Flash” had his win streak snapped last time out at UFC Vegas 53 against the highly touted Grant Dawson.

Following that loss, Gordon will look to rebound four months later at UFC 278, where he’ll share the Octagon with Santos (18-5-1). The Brazilian perhaps had an under-the-radar record a number of years ago. Prior to a three-year layoff between 2016 and 2019, “Lamparão,” who won The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 2 welterweight tournament, went 7-0-1 in the UFC, including finishes against Anthony Rocco Martin and Kevin Lee.

While he returned to action in the same form, extending his unblemished promotional record with victories over Stevie Ray and Roman Bogatov, he’s since lost back-to-back outings for the first time in his career courtesy of a last-second KO loss to Dawson and a submission defeat to legend Clay Guida.

Although both men will be looking to re-enter the win column following defeats last time out, the stakes will likely be slightly higher for Santos, who will be hoping to avoid the often fatal three-fight skid.

This bout that was first reported by Eurosport’s Marcel Dorff.

Amir Albazi vs. Francisco Figueiredo – UFC 278 (August 20)

Staying at UFC 278, a flyweight scrap between Amir Albazi and Francisco Figueiredo is slated for August 20, per an official press release.

Figueiredo (13-4-1), the younger brother of reigning UFC Flyweight Champion Deiveson, arrived on MMA’s biggest stage in 2021 as a former Interim Jungle Fight Bantamweight Champion who was unbeaten since 2017.

While he began his Octagon career on the right foot, earning a unanimous nod on the scorecards against Jerome Rivera, the Brazilian fell on the wrong side of the judges’ verdict in his sophomore appearance against Malcolm “X” Gordon.

Having immediately rebounded this year at UFC Vegas 53 by submitting Daniel Lacerda via kneebar just over a minute into the opening round, “Sniper” will be looking for his first win streak under the UFC banner when he makes his first PPV appearance this summer.

The man looking to stop the 32-year-old from doing so will be Albazi (14-1). The Swedish-born Iraqi joined the UFC in 2020 as a highly touted flyweight prospect. He enhanced that reputation with a first-round triangle choke against Gordon, who got the better of Figueiredo, and a unanimous decision victory over Zhalgas Zhumagulov.

Having been on the sidelines since last January and had bouts against Ode’ Osbourne and Tim Elliott scrapped, “The Prince” will look to pick up where he left off when he makes his return and take the next step towards his goal of becoming the first fighter to bring UFC gold to Iraq.

Irene Aldana vs. Macy Chiasson – UFC 279 (September 10)

While the UFC 278 card is still taking shape, the UFC 279 PPV is beginning to have matchups added to it, including this women’s bantamweight contest between Irene Aldana and Macy Chiasson.

Having had her main event debut spoiled by former champion Holly Holm in late 2020, Aldana (13-6) returned to winning ways last July in some style. At the Conor McGregor-headlined UFC 264, the Mexican made the most of the big stage, finishing former featherweight title challenger Yana Kunitskaya in one round.

Following failed matchups against Germaine de Randamie and Aspen Ladd, Aldana has been unable to utilize the momentum from her last outing, with her next appearance set to come over a year later. Nevertheless, she’ll hope to pick up where she left off when she welcomes Chiasson (8-2) back to bantamweight.

After moving to 5-1 in the UFC early last year, Chiasson was stalled by her first loss since 2019 in December. As well as being submitted by Raquel Pennington, the Louisianan set an unwanted record, with her 2.5-pound weight miss for the featherweight contest marking the highest weight registered by a woman in UFC history.

Given that Aldana missed the bantamweight limit by a mammoth 3.5 pounds last time out, all eyes will be on the scales for this matchup, which was first reported by ESPN Deportes’ Carlos Contreras Legaspi.

Melissa Gatto vs. Gillian Robertson – UFC Fight Night (September 17)

12-fight promotional veteran Gillian Robertson has her next fight booked, and it’ll see her collide with women’s flyweight prospect Melissa Gatto at the September 17 UFC Fight Night.

Robertson (10-7) has been incredibly active since debuting in 2017, facing the likes of Molly McCann, Maycee Barber, and recent title challenger Taila Santos during her time in the Octagon. But the Canadian has struggled for form as of late.

After rebounding from back-to-back losses to Santos and Miranda Maverick with an impressive first-round submission win against Priscila Cachoeira, which came in spite of the Brazilian’s blatant eye gouge, “The Savage” failed to continue her momentum onto a win streak, falling to a unanimous decision loss against JJ Aldrich at UFC Vegas 50 in March.

Like Robertson, Gatto (8-1-2) will be looking to make her way back to the win column on September 17. But while the Canadian’s latest setback marked her fifth in the UFC, the Brazilian’s represented the first blemish on her record.

After a pair of TKOs against Victoria Leonardo and Sijara Eubanks, the 26-year-old had extended her unbeaten form into the Octagon. But having fallen short against fellow hot prospect Tracy Cortez at UFC 274 last month, Gatto is in need of a victory to get her charge up the flyweight ladder back on track.

This September 17 matchup was first reported by Brazilian outlet AgFight.

Loma Lookboonmee vs. Diana Belbi?? – UFC Fight Night (September 17)

As well as the women’s flyweights, there will also be action in the strawweight division at the UFC’s September 17 event.

Loma Lookboonmee (6-3) arrived in the UFC in 2019 having made the switch from Muay Thai to MMA just over a year prior. After a decorated career in her former discipline, which included gold medals at the 2015, 2017, and 2018 I.F.M.A. World Championship, the Thai fighter hoped to replicate that success in the cage.

After a 1-1 start in the Octagon, with the loss coming against UFC veteran Angela Hill, the 26-year-old found form with consecutive victories over Jinh Yu Frey and Sam Hughes on the scorecards. But having been a victim of Lupita Godinez’s recent form last November, Lookboonmee is targeting a rebound performance on September 17.

Also look to re-enter the win column will be Belbi?? (14-7). The 25-year-old has struggled since earning a place in the MMA leader with four straight wins under the promotional banner of RXF, Romania’s largest mixed martial arts organization.

After breaking her initial two-fight skid, which comprised of defeats to McCann and Liana Jojua, with a unanimous decision win against Hannah Goldy, “The Warrior Princess” found herself with another blemish on her résumé earlier this year courtesy of Gloria de Paula.

This matchup was first reported by The AllStar’s John Hyon Ko.

Gregory Rodrigues vs. Chidi Njokuani – UFC Fight Night (September 17)

Just one week on from his memorable knockout victory over Julian Marquez at UFC Austin, Gregory Rodrigues (12-4) has another fight booked, and it looks set to be a banger.

If Rodrigues’ short stint in the Octagon so far has taught us anything, it’s expect fireworks. After debuting with a decision win against the once-highly touted Duško Todorovi?, the Brazilian earned an extra $50,000 in his sophomore outing, with his memorable KO of Park Jun-yong last October securing Fight of the Night honors.

While a narrow split decision setback against Armen Petrosyan earlier this year snapped the former LFA Middleweight Champion’s four-fight win streak and blemished his UFC record, Rodrigues bounced back fast in front of a sold-out Texas crowd last weekend.

He’ll look to return to a win streak at the September 17 event when he squares off with Chidi Njokuani (22-7). The 33-year-old has made quite the impression since arriving on the UFC scene last year.

Since being released by Bellator in 2019 following consecutive losses to John Salter and Rafael Carvalho, Chidi “Chidi Bang Bang” has gone 4-0, a run of form that includes a contract-earning performance on Dana White’s Contender Series and two performance bonus-worthy first-round knockouts inside the Octagon.

This exciting matchup was first reported by MMA Fighting’s Guilherme Cruz.

Who do you envision having their hands raised in these UFC matchups?

Continue Reading UFC Matchmaking Bulletin (6/20-6/25): Romanov Meets Tybura In Utah at MMA News.

Jairzinho Rozenstruik To Return Against Marcin Tybura on Feb. 26

A UFC heavyweight showdown between Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Marcin Tybura is set to take place at UFC Vegas 49 on February 26.

MMA journalist Marcel Dorff was among the first to report the news.

Rozenstruik and Tybura were both in the heavyweig…

Marcin Tybura, Jairzinho Rozenstruik

A UFC heavyweight showdown between Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Marcin Tybura is set to take place at UFC Vegas 49 on February 26.

MMA journalist Marcel Dorff was among the first to report the news.

Rozenstruik and Tybura were both in the heavyweight title discussion before recent losses. Rozenstruik fell to Curtis Blaydes at UFC 266 while Tybura lost just weeks later at UFC 267 against Alexander Volkov.

Rozenstruik has traded wins and losses since his knockout loss to Francis Ngannou in just 20 seconds at UFC 249. He’s earned wins most recently against Junior dos Santos and Augusto Sakai.

Tybura was arguably the hottest heavyweight contender before a loss to Volkov. He had won five fights in a row over the likes of Ben Rothwell, Greg Hardy, and Walt Harris.

The full card for UFC Vegas 49 has yet to be announced, but the card will be headlined by top lightweight contenders Beneil Dariush and Islam Makhachev. The winner of that matchup will more than likely be next in line for the 155-pound title.

Before losing to Blaydes, Rozenstruik had called for potential matchups with the likes of Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic at heavyweight. Both men remain sidelined and are expected to return at some point in 2022.

As for Tybura, he remains a potential dark horse in the heavyweight division. Previous wins over Stefan Struve and Andrei Arlovski helped propel him into the heavyweight rankings.

Rozenstruik is listed at No. 6 and Tybura is slated at No. 9 in the latest UFC heavyweight rankings. The winner of this matchup could get a Top-5 opponent next.

What is your prediction for this fight?

Continue Reading Jairzinho Rozenstruik To Return Against Marcin Tybura on Feb. 26 at MMA News.

Alexander Volkov Waiting To See How Heavyweight Division Plays Out Before Returning

Alexander VolkovAlexander Volkov will not be in any rush to compete again for now. Volkov returned to the win column with a unanimous decision victory over Marcin Tybura in their heavyweight contest at UFC 267 last night in Abu Dhabi. Although it wasn’t the most exciting fight by any means, it was important for Volkov to […]

Alexander Volkov

Alexander Volkov will not be in any rush to compete again for now.

Volkov returned to the win column with a unanimous decision victory over Marcin Tybura in their heavyweight contest at UFC 267 last night in Abu Dhabi.

Although it wasn’t the most exciting fight by any means, it was important for Volkov to return to winning ways after his last outing against Ciryl Gane saw him suffer defeat.

As for his next fight? Volkov doesn’t have any names in mind for two reasons.

First, his wife gave birth to a son just over a week ago which means it’s family time for the Russian next. However, Volkov is also in a weird situation with three of his recent defeats coming to contenders ranked above him in Gane, Curtis Blaydes and Derrick Lewis.

That is why he will wait for the division to play out in the near future.

“Right now, I don’t have any names because how I told in the octagon, 11 days ago, my youngest son was born,” Volkov said at the post fight news conference (via MMA Junkie). “Right now, I just want to take a little bit of rest to be with my family. After maybe a month, we’ll see what happened in heavyweight, who will be in the rankings because I lost some fights to guys upward from me.

“Maybe we’ll see if one of them wants to make a rematch with me. We will see but I’m ready for any challenge the UFC will give me. I’m here just to do my job.”

A rematch with Lewis seems fitting at the moment.

Who should Alexander Volkov face next?

UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Staff Predictions

We’ve got you covered with our staff picks for UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira! It all goes down in Abu Dhabi tomorrow with UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira, which will NOT be on pay-per-view but rather a special feature presentation streaming on ESPN+. Make sure you are well-rested and ready to bet, watch, scream, and […]

Continue Reading UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Staff Predictions at MMA News.

We’ve got you covered with our staff picks for UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira!

It all goes down in Abu Dhabi tomorrow with UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira, which will NOT be on pay-per-view but rather a special feature presentation streaming on ESPN+. Make sure you are well-rested and ready to bet, watch, scream, and shout as this early event kicks off at 10:30 AM ET (prelims), with the main card scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM.

There will be two title fights waiting for you and a stacked fight card from top to bottom, capped off with Jan Blachowicz and Glover Teixeira competing for the light heavyweight championship. In the co-main event, Petr Yan will look to return bantamweight gold to his waist, interim or otherwise, as he goes up against the electric Cory Sandhagen.

Also on tap for tomorrow night is the man often considered to be “The Next Khabib,” Islam Makhachev, who will face Dan Hooker. The Russian invasion will also include appearances from Magomed Ankalaev and Alexander Volkov competing on the main card. And who can forget the highly anticipated return of “Borz,” Khmazat Chimaev, who will look to come back with a smesh when he takes on UFC vet Li Jingliang.

You can check out the full UFC 267 main card below!

UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Main Card

  • UFC Light Heavyweight Championship Bout: Jan Blachowicz (c) vs. Glover Teixeira
  • UFC Interim Bantamweight Championship Bout: Petr Yan vs. Cory Sandhagen
  • Islam Makhachev vs. Dan Hooker
  • Alexander Volkov vs. Marcin Tybura
  • Li Jingliang vs. Khamzat Chimaev
  • Magomed Ankalaev vs. Volkan Oezdemir

UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Staff Predictions

MMA News is the place to be for all the latest UFC 267 updates. Staff members Andrew Ravens, Doug Murray, and Harvey Leonard have provided predictions for the main card. And based on the consistency of the picks, there seems to be a lot of safe bets to be made according to these three staffers! Check out their picks below!

Magomed Ankalaev vs. Volkan Oezdemir

Magomed Ankalaev Volkan Oezdemir
Magomed Ankalaev, Volkan Oezdemir

Andrew Ravens: Volkan could be in for a rough night at the office when he steps into the Octagon against Ankalaev, who has looked exceptional aside from his promotional debut that he lost. Ankalaev seems to get better and better every outing while Volkvan has flattened at his spot. Ankalaev walks away with the decision win. (Prediction: Magomed Ankalaev)

Doug Murray: Ankalaev can extend his winning streak to seven with a win against Oezdemir. The former title challenger took a devastating loss when he fell at the hands of Ji?í Procházka. Since Oezdemir’s last fight ended by getting finished, his approach will likely be toned down when he meets Ankalaev. With that in mind, Ankalaev’s pressure and high kicks will be difficult for Oezdemir to dodge for 15 minutes. (Prediction: Magomed Ankalaev)

Harvey Leonard: As good as Oezdemir was at the start of his UFC career, he’s certainly not at his best anymore. I think his victory over Aleksandar Raki? has perhaps disguised that slightly. The result was controversial, and it seemed pretty clear he should have lost. With more competent judging, the Swiss contender would be sitting with five losses in his last six. At that point, a reset against lower-ranked opposition (similar to Dan Hooker last month) is needed. Magomed Ankalaev certainly isn’t that. With the Dagestani’s superior accuracy on the feet and Oezdemir’s inferior defense, I see Ankalaev extending his streak to seven. (Prediction: Magomed Ankalaev)

Consensus: 3-0 Ankalaev

Li Jingliang vs. Khamzat Chimaev

Li Jingliang Khamzat Chimaev
Li Jingliang and Khamzat Chimaev

Andrew Ravens: Here’s a chance for Chimaev to get another knockout highlight reel, and I see it happening. Li is a good fighter but does have moments where he simply doesn’t show up as expected. If that happens, then Chimaev is going to get a bonus at his expense. Chimaev stops him in the second round. (Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev)

Doug Murray: Mystery shrouds this welterweight showdown. Since Chimaev was forced to the sidelines after contracting COVID-19, his massive audience awaits his return to Fight Island. With three wins and three finishes in the UFC, Chimaev’s speed and ability to predict opponents as they grapple make his style a nightmare to deal with. While Li is a powerful 170-pound fighter, Chimaev’s speed and takedowns will set the tone for this fight early. (Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev)

Harvey Leonard: Whenever a fighter reveals they didn’t know who their opponent was before a booking, I’m wary to side with them. I can picture the clip of Chimaev at media day being brought up after a defeat. However, I do think the edge lies with “Borz.” He may have been away for over a year, but the quality he trains with at the Allstar gym in Stockholm shouldn’t make that an issue.

Whilst “The Leech” possesses the KO power to finish anyone, his shortcomings on the ground were evident in his loss to Neil Magny. We saw how brutal Chimaev can be when he gets his opponents down, and whilst he hasn’t faced a talent like Jingliang, I’d expect his pressure wrestling to be too much. (Prediction: Khamzat Chimaev)

Consensus: 3-0 Chimaev

Alexander Volkov vs. Marcin Tybura

Alexander Volkov Marcin Tybura
(via Zuffa LLC)

Andrew Ravens: Volkov is looking to rebound after losing his previous fight against Cyril Gane while Tybura has been on fire as he’s won five straight. I see Volkov being really fired up to get a win here and prove that yes, he can fight with the best of the best. I don’t see Tybura at that level and predict Volkov can back that up with a TKO win. (Prediction: Alexander Volkov)

Doug Murray: A battle of two titans, don’t look now, but Tybura has amassed a five-fight winning streak with the promotion. Tybura is finally synergizing his standup with his strength on the canvas. The heavyweight showed his path to victory in his last fight. With damaging ground and pound, Tybura will need to get “Drago” to the mat to drastically increase his odds for success. Volkov has shown a stellar takedown defense as a former champion in Bellator, and his striking will be overwhelming if the fight makes it to the third round. (Prediction: Alexander Volkov)

Harvey Leonard: Tybura is on a pretty devastating win streak, but he’s not come close to facing an opponent with the skill of Volkov during it. The only times he’s faced heavyweights similar to his level on the feet, he was finished by Derrick Lewis and Augusto Sakai. The Pole’s threat is power, but given that Volkov has only been finished by Lewis in the UFC, I can’t see a scenario where he gets taken out by Tybura.

Volkov’s striking is up there with the best in the division, and through The Russian’s reach and speed advantage, I’d expect “Drago” to put it on full display. I’d fancy a Volkov finish, but if it goes to the scorecards, Tybura will struggle to outpoint him. (Prediction: Alexander Volkov)

Consensus: 3-0 Volkov

Islam Makhachev vs. Dan Hooker

Islam Makhachev, Dan Hooker
Islam Makhachev, Dan Hooker (Image Credits: Mike Lawrie/Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)

Andrew Ravens: There are levels to this game, and it looks like Islam is on his way to the top tier. That’s not to say Hooker is not a real challenge as he’s a really good fighter. Islam has been running through people, but Hooker is his first real test, and he’s gonna have to put out his best to get past Hooker. I do think that happens with Islam getting the decision win. (Prediction: Islam Makhachev)

Doug Murray: Burn the boats. Dan Hooker is coming to Fight Island after just competing on Sept. 25, “The Hangman” is becoming somewhat of a hardcore fight fan’s dream. The wrestling skills of Hooker appear to be evolving rapidly, and he showed as much in his fight against Nasrat Haqparast. With a style geared toward volume, Hooker poses some real challenges to Makhachev. The heir to Khabib Nurmagomedov has looked impressive in the cage. And with a short camp for Hooker, Makhachev’s pressure will likely get the best of Hooker. (Prediction: Islam Makhachev)

Harvey Leonard: As much as I’d love for Hooker’s attitude to be rewarded with a victory, it’s hard to bet against the imposing game of Makhachev. Whilst I don’t buy into the idea that it’s as one-sided as the likes of Khabib would like us to believe, I do think “The Hangman” could struggle to implement his game if the Dagestani imposes his own early. Hooker’s route to victory is clearly keeping the fight on the feet. If he can’t, Makhachev could force a submission, but I think a controlling decision is more likely. (Prediction: Islam Makhachev)

Consensus: 3-0 Makhachev

Petr Yan vs. Cory Sandhagen

Cory Sandhagen, Petr Yan
Cory Sandhagen, Petr Yan (Image Credit: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC)

Andrew Ravens: In my eyes, Yan is still champion and not Aljamain Sterling. We all know why Yan isn’t technically the champion right now and to his credit, instead of waiting for Sterling, he’s trying to stay active. In such a deep division, there are no easy tests and this inserts Sandhagen, who has a real chance to win this fight. I think Yan is the better fighter, but this will be a close, back-and-forth, and fun fight. (Prediction: Petr Yan)

Doug Murray: After going the distance with TJ Dillashaw, Sandhagen’s style is so fan-friendly that it was no surprise he got the call after hearing the champion was injured. I think Sandhagen’s kick-heavy style will be to his detriment against a disciplined boxer like Petr Yan. Yan is able to connect at will when opponents tire and relies heavily on a boxing repertoire that should carry him to the win. (Prediction: Petr Yan)

Harvey Leonard: This is arguably a better fight on paper than the original Yan vs. Sterling rematch. The contrast between the Russian’s tight boxing and forward pressure and Sandhagen’s kickboxing and elusive movement should make for a barnburner. Whilst Sandhagen is always capable of a highlight-reel KO and Yan is always looking for a brutal finish, I expect this one to go the distance.

If “The Sandman” can stay at range and catch Yan when he attempts to move in, perhaps even with a knee as the Russian ducks low with his shots, he is capable of outpointing “No Mercy.” But whilst I expect him to have some success doing so, I believe Yan will have the better of the exchanges, especially in the later rounds. (Prediction: Petr Yan)

Consensus: 3-0 Yan

Jan Blachowicz vs. Glover Teixeira

Jan Blachowicz, Glover Teixeira
Jan Blachowicz, Glover Teixeira

Andrew Ravens: Some casuals may overlook Glover in this fight, but the hardcore fans know how dangerous Glover can be. However, I see this to be a one-sided beatdown by Jan. In the current division, I don’t see anyone beating Jan right now, and I add Glover to that list. Glover has a puncher’s chance early and won’t be put away, but I have Jan getting his hand raised after a decision win. (Prediction: Jan Blachowicz)

Doug Murray: The light heavyweight titleholder made his name as a Polish champion in KSW. B?achowicz is well versed in maintaining a fight’s geography. As a powerful counter puncher and reactive wrestler, the 38-year-old has all of the tools to deal with Teixeira. While the Brazilian challenger may have the edge in power on the feet, B?achowicz will be too much for a UFC legend that appears to be slowing despite stringing a massive streak together. (Prediction: Jan Blachowicz)

Harvey Leonard: After the bad blood in last weekend’s main event, it’s a nice change of pace to have two headliners respecting each other. As much of a feel-good story as it would be for Teixeira to become the UFC’s second post-40 champion, I believe he’ll fall short. Of course, he does boast incredible Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu skills, and if the fight does hit the mat, he has what it takes to submit the champion.

However, on the feet, Blachowicz will have a speed and power advantage, which will not only help him control the exchanges and possibly find a finish but will also aid him in resisting Teixeira’s attempts to take him down and keep him there. The 42-year-old can never be counted out, but “and new” would surprise me. (Prediction: Jan Blachowicz)

Consensus: 3-0 Blachowicz

That’ll do it for our unanimous staff picks! What do you think? Are these fights as clear-cut as our three staffers seem to think? Or do you see some upsets brewing? Feel free to drop your own picks in the comments section, and you can check out the UFC 267 undercard below.

UFC 267 Undercard

PRELIMINARY CARD

  • Amanda Ribas vs. Virna Jandiroba (Women’s Strawweight)
  • Ricardo Ramos vs. Zubaira Tukhugov (Featherweight)
  • Albert Duraev vs. Roman Kopylov (Middleweight)
  • Shamil Gamzatov vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk (Light Heavyweight)
  • Makwan Amirkhani vs. Lerone Murphy (Featherweight)
  • Hu Yaozong vs. Alen Amedovski (Middleweight)
  • Magomed Mustafaev vs. Damir Ismagulov (Lightweight)
  • Tagir Ulanbekov vs. Allan Nascimento (Flyweight)

Be sure to keep it right here on MMANews.com tomorrow for all the results, highlights, and updates on UFC 267!

Continue Reading UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira Staff Predictions at MMA News.

UFC 267: Three Under-The-Radar Fights

The UFC is headed back to Abu Dhabi, and the stacked UFC 267 event has left some fight gems unearthed. This weekend all eyes are on Fight Island. The UFC will double down on title fights as interim bantamweight gold will be fought for when Petr Yan and Cory Sandhagen meet under the bright lights. […]

Continue Reading UFC 267: Three Under-The-Radar Fights at MMA News.

The UFC is headed back to Abu Dhabi, and the stacked UFC 267 event has left some fight gems unearthed.

This weekend all eyes are on Fight Island. The UFC will double down on title fights as interim bantamweight gold will be fought for when Petr Yan and Cory Sandhagen meet under the bright lights. Spoiled with riches in an exclusive presentation, the main event pits Brazil’s Glover Teixeira, who is adamant that he will not be denied his final title opportunity against Jan B?achowicz.

Three fights, in particular, stand out at UFC 267 that might be flying under the radar. With a pair of title bouts and the return of the surging Khamzat Chimaev, there is plenty to get excited about. The 9-0 viral sensation looks to re-cement his status as one of the scariest prospects at 170-pounds. The Chechnya native will face a tough out when his showdown with China’s Jingliang Li comes full circle.

As the month of October draws to a close, a cold front of violence awaits. Let’s take a closer look at three contests buried on this epic night of fights.

Amanda Ribas vs. Virna Jandiroba

A strawweight battle between Amanda Ribas and Virna Jandiroba will produce a contender among a busy stable of fighters at 115-pounds. The pair of strawweight athletes made their way into the UFC in 2019 but started careers off in different manners.

“Carcará” was tasked with a difficult debut. Jandiroba faced inaugural former champion Carla Esparza but came up short in a unanimous decision defeat. Within a year of losing her UFC debut, Jandiroba met adversity head-on and picked up her first two victories with the promotion.

As a former Invicta champion, Jandiroba made a career with her submission skills. Interestingly, the 33-year-old first started combat when she was a child practicing kung fu. Nevertheless, it was her affinity for grappling sequences that set her name ablaze in the combat sports community.

Amanda Ribas will meet Jandiroba in a 115-pound contest on Saturday. Despite the recent setback against Marina Rodriguez, Amanda Ribas has shown toughness and a tactical tenacity when she fights in the Octagon. A tale of two different debuts, Ribas made waves with her first performance in the UFC. The strawweight debutante finished Emily Whitmire with a rear-naked choke in round two.

Granted, Amanda Ribas is a well-rounded strawweight, it will take a committed effort in the standup department to uproot Jandiroba from her game. Since Jandiroba is more than willing to take the fight to the canvas, one of Ribas’ notable strengths will be nullified once the two touch gloves.

Magomed Ankalaev vs. Volkan Oezdemir

A hard-hitting light heavyweight match-up will illuminate a clear path for whoever should emerge with a victory. Oezdemir, having lost his last bout to Ji?í Procházka, will need a statement win if he intends to put himself back on the hunt for gold.

Volkan Oezdemir fighting Ji?í Procházka

Ankalaev seeks his seventh consecutive win after going scorched earth following his dramatic defeat to Paul Craig in 2018. Both light heavyweights are notable strikers with power produced even in their glancing shots. With such a long-standing winning streak, Ankalaev will risk it all when he faces a former title challenger at UFC 267. Though, ahead of the contest, Oezdemir is adamant that it will be Ankalaev looking to avoid the action.

With the frantic nature of his last fight against Procházka, many believe we have yet to see the best “No Time” has to offer. In 2017, Oezdemir earned his moniker after finishing Misha Cirkunov and Jimi Manuwa in under thirty seconds. The Switzerland native has the chance to become the second fighter in history to defeat Ankalaev when they share the cage on Saturday night.

Alexander Volkov vs. Marcin Tybura

Alexander Volkov Marcin Tybura
(via Zuffa LLC)

Marcin Tybura has amassed a quiet but revealing winning streak. Having won his last five bouts, the heavyweight has blasted through some legitimate contenders as of late. In fact, Tybura picked up four of his most recent victories in 2020. After scoring back-to-back decision victories against Maxim Grishin and Ben Rothwell, it seemed the 35-year-old was beginning to find his footing at 265-pounds.

Following his ground-and-pound victory against Greg Hardy, the division and fans alike took notice of the heavyweight’s stellar performance. Putting an exclamation point on his claim for a title contender, Tybura polished off Walt Harris in a single round. Once again, it was the heavyweight’s patented ground-and-pound that got the job done.

However, Tybura will have a challenging night when he meets Alexander Volkov at UFC 267. As a former Bellator and M-1 heavyweight champion, “Drago” will put those former accolades on the line informally when he squares up with Tybura this weekend. Despite Volkov losing his last fight, the defeat came at the hands of Ciryl Gane, and the bout showcased a tactical chess match.

While Volkov was unable to effectively land on Gane, he went the distance with the interim heavyweight champion. As a decorated kickboxer with excellent takedown defense, Volkov will be Tybura’s most puzzling UFC test to date. Alexander Volkov’s striking is difficult to prepare for, and with length and reach not often seen in the UFC, Tybura will need to be defensively sound to avoid fight-ending damage.

What fight at UFC 267 is going under the radar for you?

Continue Reading UFC 267: Three Under-The-Radar Fights at MMA News.

Report: Alexander Volkov vs. Marcin Tybura Set For UFC 267

It appears heavyweights Alexander Volkov and Marcin Tybura are on a collision course. MMAFighting.com is reporting that Volkov vs. Tybura is on tap for UFC 267. The event will be held on Oct. 30 in Abu Dhabi. It’ll be headlined by a UFC Light Hea…

It appears heavyweights Alexander Volkov and Marcin Tybura are on a collision course. MMAFighting.com is reporting that Volkov vs. Tybura is on tap for UFC 267. The event will be held on Oct. 30 in Abu Dhabi. It’ll be headlined by a UFC Light Heavyweight Title bout between champion Jan Blachowicz and Glover Teixeira. Volkov […]

Continue Reading Report: Alexander Volkov vs. Marcin Tybura Set For UFC 267 at MMA News.