Matchmaking Christian Leroy Duncan After First Finish Loss

Christian Leroy Duncan suffered the first finish loss of his career when he was submitted in the final round of his first UFC main event against Brendan Allen. The two had a competitive first four and a half rounds, with CLD doing better on the feet and the American dominating on the ground.

It was a big step up in competition for Duncan, who has earned a big fight next. We take a look at who that name could be.

Matchmaking Christian Leroy Duncan

Israel Adesanya

In what would be a real treat for fans of technical stand-up, Israel Adesanya vs CLD would be an amazing fight. Both men utilise their kicking game well, with the former champion having the edge in the boxing game and CLD having the edge in close range with elbows and knees. 

Although this would be a fan favourite fight, Duncan is likely not a big enough name for Adesanya in what might be 'The Last Stylebender's final fight.

Roman Kopylov

Roman Kopylov is coming off a huge upset win over Ateba Gautier to extend his winning run to two straight. Whenever the Russian has stepped up to the elite, ranked level, he's come up short with losses to Paulo Costa, Anthony Hernandez and Gregory Rodrigues. Duncan isn't quite at the elite level of those men; however, he is higher ranked than Kopylov, and it could make for an interesting fight on the feet.

It's a fight that would determine who the man is to make the transition from prospect to legitimate contender.

Tresean Gore

The TUF season 29 winner, Tresean Gore, is on a two-fight winning run and is knocking on the door of a rankings spot. The American picked up an impressive win over Azamat Bekoev and followed that win up with a one-sided decision win over veteran Vicente Luque.

Gore is deserving of a shot at a ranked opponent next, and although Duncan may be a little too highly ranked for him, it's likely a fight CLD would take.