Nate Diaz's recent comments about the Strickland vs. Khamzat beef have sparked an interesting debate in the MMA community. While Diaz's choice of words may have been controversial, his point about the 'fake f—king puppets' in the sport is one that many fans can relate to. It's time to dive into the world of MMA and explore the fights that matter, while also taking a critical look at the sport's current state.
The Main Event: Sean Strickland vs. Nassourdine Imavov
The main event was a close fight, with both fighters displaying their top-tier skills. While the decision may have been controversial, it's clear that Imavov deserves a shot at the 185 lbs belt. A rematch between Strickland and Imavov would be an exciting prospect, and it's a fight that many fans are calling for. But is it the right move for the UFC? Personally, I think that the UFC should consider a trilogy fight between Strickland and Imavov, as it would provide an opportunity for both fighters to prove themselves once again. However, I also believe that the UFC should consider a different opponent for Imavov, as he has already faced Strickland once. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential for a trilogy fight to become a reality, and the implications it could have for the middleweight division.
Fight of the Night: Joshua Van vs. Alexandre Pantoja
The fight between Joshua Van and Alexandre Pantoja was a true showcase of skill and determination. While Pantoja may have been the champion, Van's performance was nothing short of impressive. It's clear that Van deserves a rematch, and it's a fight that the UFC should consider making. In my opinion, the UFC should make this fight happen, as it would provide an opportunity for Van to prove himself and potentially become a top contender in the division. What many people don't realize is that Van has the skills and the determination to become a champion, and a rematch with Pantoja would be the perfect opportunity for him to do so.
Sean Brady vs. Kamaru Usman
Brady's performance against Usman was a true MMA masterclass. While the hometown crowd's reaction may have been unfortunate, Brady's dominance was undeniable. Usman, on the other hand, is coming off of a win over Buckley, and his claim to being the greatest WW ever not from Canada is a bit of a stretch. This fight should be a numbered main card marquee matchup or a fight night main event, and it's a fight that the UFC should consider making. From my perspective, the UFC should make this fight happen, as it would provide an opportunity for Brady to prove himself against a top contender in the division. One thing that immediately stands out is the potential for this fight to become a true test of Brady's skills, and the implications it could have for the welterweight division.
Khamzat Chimaev vs. Paulo Costa
Chimaev's performance against Costa was a bit of a letdown, and it's clear that he needs to rebound against a middleweight like Borralho or Pyfer. While a grudge match with Costa may be tempting, I actually like the idea of Borralho and Pyfer fighting each other. 205 is wide open right now, and it's a division that Chimaev could potentially move into permanently. If Chimaev wins against Borralho or Pyfer, he can decide whether he wants a chance to get his belt back at 185 or move up permanently into a wide-open light-heavyweight division. This raises a deeper question: should Chimaev focus on regaining his belt at 185 or move up to a division where he could potentially become a champion?
Ateba Gautier vs. Gregory Rodrigues
Gautier's performance against Rodrigues was a true test of power and determination. While Gautier may have walked right into Rodrigues' power, it's clear that he has the skills to become a top contender in the division. This booking feels like the one to make next, and it's a fight that the UFC should consider making. What this really suggests is that the UFC should focus on promoting fighters who have the potential to become champions, and Gautier is definitely one of them.
Other Fights to Make
There are several other fights that the UFC should consider making, including Waldo Cortes Acosta vs. Curtis Blaydes, Joaquin Buckley vs. Michael Page, Bobby Green vs. Chris Padilla, Jim Miller vs. Edson Barboza, and Grant Dawson vs. Esteban Ribovocs. These fights would provide an opportunity for up-and-coming fighters to prove themselves and potentially become top contenders in their respective divisions. In my opinion, the UFC should focus on promoting these fights, as they would provide an opportunity for the next generation of MMA stars to emerge.
