One of the positives for MMA athletes is that a loss does not derail your career. For the losing fighters at UFC 249, the future has some exciting possible matchups. Check out the matches to make for the winners here. Let’s look at the fights to make for the other fighters on the card.
The Undercard Fights to Make
Sam Alvey vs. Kennedy Nzechukwu: Sam Alvey’s losing streak has extended to four. He was coming on strong late in the 3rd round, however, was on the wrong side of a split decision. If he continues in the UFC, a fight with Nzechukwa could be a possibility. The Light-Heavyweight prospect is coming off a win against Darko Stosic. We’ve seen the young prospect vs. older veteran many times in MMA, it would be no surprise if that’s what’s next for Alvey.
Charles Rosa vs. Jamall Emmers: Rosa has had a back and forth UFC Career. He’s alternated wins and losses in his last 7 fights. He has 2 submission wins in the UFC, however, was outclassed on the ground at UFC 249. Emmers lost his UFC debut back in March, however, holds a 17-5 professional record.
Niko Price vs. Alexey Kunchenko: Price is becoming a must-watch fighter every time his name is on a card. The upkick he landed on James Vick was jaw-dropping. Price has also alternating wins and losses in his last 6. It will be a while before we see “The Hybrid” back in the octogen, but when he returns it should be against the former M-1 Champion.
Michelle Waterson vs. Amanda Ribas: The Karate Hottie’s opportunity to reach a championship fight is now obsolete. With back to back losses, the 34-year-old is on the tail end of her career. Waterson is viewed as one of the nicest athletes in the UFC and she has been a pioneer for women’s MMA. It’s upsetting, but it is customary for the majority of mixed martial artists. Amanda Ribas is rising through the strawweight division. This could give her the name that propels her popularity.
Fabricio Werdum vs. Sergey Spivak: Fabricio Werdum is a top 5 heavyweight of all time. With wins over Cain Velasquez and Fedor Emelianenko, there’s not much left to prove. After returning from his 2-year suspension, Werdum lost a split decision at UFC 249. It’s unclear what the future holds for “Vai Cavalo”, but if he continues under the UFC Banner it should be against Spivak.
Donald Cerrone vs. Demian Maia: Cowboy always answers the call no matter who the opponent is. Don’t expect him to be out of action long, Cerrone is the most active fighter we have ever seen. This matchup still gives fans two popular names while Cowboy gets a break from an elite striker.
The Main Card
Yorgan De Castro vs. Todd Duffee: De Castro suffered his first loss at UFC 249 in large part due to a foot injury. Todd Duffee has the name recognition but his inactivity is still a question mark with his career. His last bout was a no-contest due to a horrific eye poke. A return against De Castro in the fall could be on the horizon.
Jeremy Stephens vs. Mirsad Bektic: Stephens losing streak extended to 4 after a rough knockout loss over Calvin Kattar. He has the luxury of being a fighter that no matter what his win-loss record says, fans will tune in. “Lil Heathen” has fought almost everyone in the featherweight division and has an incredible resume. He’s should add to that resume with a bout against Bektic.
Jairzinho Rozenstruik vs. Alexander Volkov: Bigi Boy was added to Francis Ngannou’s highlight real, but the talented striker can bounce back. Personally, it would be a relief if Rozenstruik stays out of the octogen for a significant amount of time. When he does return, a matchup with “Drago” can add another contender to the stagnant heavyweight division.
Dominick Cruz vs. Frankie Edgar: The argument can be made that Keith “No Nonsense” Peterson stoppage was early, but Cruz endured a barrage of strikes with no response. The jury is still out whether or not Cruz is going to return. We can be hopeful that if he decides to return it could be against “The Answer”. A former champ at 155 against a former champ at 135. Two of the most popular fighters in the UFC, Cruz and Edgar can draw a lot of fans to any card.
Tony Ferguson vs. Dustin Poirier: Tony Ferguson’s win streak finally came to an end. There are granite chins and then there’s Tony Ferguson. He displayed incredible heart and toughness. Don’t count him out though, one victory and he’s once again the #1 contender. The lightweight division is the best it has ever been and two top 5 contenders would bring fans to their feet.
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