The return of Jon Jones at UFC 285 did not disappoint, as the card became another instant classic from start to finish. Usually after a card with that much star power, the following weeks could get a little dry in talent. That is not the case this time around. The main event of this upcoming card features former bantamweight champion Petr Yan squaring up against Merab Dvalishvili.
Five Rounder
Yan and Dvalishvili are considered two of the most complete fighters in the bantamweight division. Merab has looked unstoppable during his eight fight win streak. His incredible pace and wrestling forcing his opponents to break down over the course of the fight. His main concern will be if he is able to keep this pace up for all five rounds. He has never had to go more than three rounds in his career.
Petr Yan has the experience needed to win this fight. He has some of the best takedown defense in the bantamweight division, stuffing 90% of takedowns in his career. If Dvalishvili can not score a takedown, he may become frustrated in the later rounds. This will lead to more mistakes and openings for Petr. Yan needs a win more than ever. I believe he will do whatever it takes to get his hand raised in the fight on Saturday night.
A fight to look out for on the main card is the rescheduling of sixth ranked Nikita Krylov and eighth ranked Ryan Spann. Both are coming off impressive wins with Krylov defeating Volkan Oezdemir on UFC 280 and Spann taking out Dominick Reyes in their last fights. Expect Krylov to take Spann to the ground and control the fight as he looks to take one step closer to that shot at the title.
Fight of the Night
The fight of the night may just be on the prelims once again. Davey Grant is set to face ten year UFC vet Raphael Assuncao. Assuncao has many impressive wins in his UFC career, including wins over former champion TJ Dillashaw, Marlon Moraes and current champion Aljamain Sterling.
Grant has received bonuses in his last four fights, as he is one of the most exciting fighters on the roster. Assuncao’s age may play a factor, and seems to have lost a step or two over his last few fights. Look for Grant to break down Assuncao on the feet until he ultimately gets the finish.
Thank you for reading my UFC article. Our UFC page is your premier destination for all things MMA. Head to my Pete’s Sports UFC Page and follow me on Twitter. For UFC and all other sports articles check out Pete Sports. Please go to my You Tube Channel where you can subscribe to my videos. Featured image credit YouTube.
