MacMally’s UFC Fight Night Preview: Cannonier vs. Imavov
Is the UFC world sleeping on a potential fire card in Kentucky this weekend? Our man MacMally thinks so.
Well, UFC 302 wasn’t insane. Good card overall, but one of the ones on paper that looks great but doesn’t quite live up to it. Now, the fight card this weekend is one of the sleeper cards we talk about so much after the fact. Underappreciated but overperforms! Let’s cross our fingers and dive in.
Look, on paper, this card doesn’t have anything that makes me jump out of my seat. This card, however, has some intriguing matchups, rising potential stars, and veterans looking to make a statement. Let’s break down the main event and some key fights on the card.
Main Event: Jared Cannonier vs. Nassourdine Imavov
Jared “The Killa Gorilla” Cannonier is back in action, and this time he’s facing the French potential contender, Nassourdine Imavov. Cannonier is known for his explosive power and crystal energy, having competed in three different weight classes and being one of the only fighters besides Jessica Andrade to have KO wins in all three. Currently a top contender in the Middleweight division, he’s looking to regain and solidify his position with a win over Imavov. Imavov, on the other hand, is a rising contender with a lot to prove. Since his LHW fight he lost to Sean Strickland, he’s had a NC with a headbutt against Chris Curtis and a win over surging Roman Dolidze. This matchup is a classic test of experience versus youth and power versus game plan execution.
Cannonier’s Keys to Victory
Cannonier needs to utilize his powerful striking and experience to dictate the pace of the fight. His ability to actually land significant strikes and control the octagon will be crucial. If he can keep the fight standing and avoid Imavov’s grappling, he stands a good chance of securing a knockout or a decisive victory on the scorecards.
Imavov’s Keys to Victory
Imavov’s path to victory lies in his versatility and ability to mix up his attacks. He needs to use his striking to set up takedowns and keep Cannonier guessing. If he can take Cannonier to the ground, his grappling could give him the edge. Imavov’s cardio and pace will also be crucial, especially in the later rounds.
Prediction: I see this fight going two ways. A slow drag out grappling affair for Imavov with Cannoier’s gas tank slowly deteriorating resulting in a decision or Jared Cannonier landing a giant shot in the first two rounds. I asked my crystal ball and I’m going to have to go with Cannonier by TKO on Bodog’s UFC betting board.
Co-Main Event: Dominick Reyes vs. Dustin Jacoby
The co-main event features a light heavyweight clash between Dominick Reyes and Dustin Jacoby. Both fighters are known for their striking prowess and despite both being on a turbulent last few fights, they will be looking to make a statement that they belong in the UFC’s light heavyweight division with this fight.
Reyes’ Keys to Victory
Dominick Reyes has been through some rough fights over the last couple years but he absolutely needs to tap into the form that saw him push Jon Jones to the limit. His powerful left hand and movement are key weapons. Reyes needs to be aware of Jacoby’s kickboxing prowess, mind the distance and use his speed to avoid or defend Jacoby’s kicks and punches. Keeping the fight at range and using his counter-striking ability could be his path to victory.
Jacoby’s Keys to Victory
Dustin Jacoby is a former Glory kickboxer with a versatile striking arsenal. He needs to press forward and disrupt Reyes’ rhythm with leg kicks and body shots. If Jacoby can mix in some takedowns or clinch work, it could tire Reyes and create openings for his striking. His durability and cardio will be tested against Reyes’ power.
Prediction: This is a striker’s delight, but I’m picking Dustin Jacoby to find a fight ending shot with his more refined striking and experience at the highest level.
Ricky Turcios vs. Raul Rosas Jr.
This bantamweight showdown features The Ultimate Fighter winner Ricky Turcios taking on the young sensation Raul Rosas Jr. Both fighters are known for their aggressive styles and high-energy performances. Raul Rosas debuted while he was still in high school and Turcios is what I call the new spiritual version of Tony Ferguson.
Turcios’ Keys to Victory
Ricky Turcios is a dynamic fighter with a relentless pace. His striking is unorthodox, and he’s not afraid to take risks – like, a lot of them! Turcios needs to use his experience and keep the fight chaotic, where he thrives. If he can push Rosas into deep waters and test his cardio, it could be the key to victory.
Rosas’ Keys to Victory
Raul Rosas Jr. is a young prodigy with a newly discovered well-rounded skill set. He’s aggressive and has shown impressive grappling skills. Rosas needs to stay composed and not get drawn into a brawl. If he can take Turcios down and control him on the ground, he could dominate the fight. I have no proof but I feel like his strength and teenage angst gives him the slight edge. This one can go either way.
Prediction: I’m gonna be completely honest. I have no idea who wins this one. Ricky is good, and fun to watch. Raul is the same, but very young. I’d give Raul the power advantage. Ricky obviously has had more reps and I assume the cardio advantage. I’ll put a Hail Mary on Raul Rosas Jr. finding a submission after landing a shot on the feet.
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