Edwards vs. Brady: Welterweight Main Event
Leon Edwards faces a critical juncture in his career. After losing his title, a victory is paramount for his aspirations to contend for gold once more. Despite a strong run leading to his championship, the path back to the title isn’t guaranteed. A defeat at UFC London against Sean Brady could significantly hinder his championship ambitions.
Sean Brady enters this fight in a favorable position. A win over Edwards would mark his third consecutive victory after a setback against Belal Muhammad. Having already defeated former title challengers Kelvin Gastelum and Gilbert Burns, adding a former champion to his record would elevate him in the welterweight division. While Shavkat Rakhmonov is likely next in line for a title shot, Brady could firmly establish himself as a top contender with a win.
Blachowicz vs. Ulberg: Light Heavyweight Co-Main Event
The co-main event mirrors the main event’s narrative. Former light heavyweight champion Jan Blachowicz seeks to maintain his relevance against rising contender Carlos Ulberg. For Blachowicz, this fight is about survival at the top, while Ulberg aims to solidify his case for a title opportunity. An impressive showing by Ulberg could propel him closer to a title shot than any other fighter on this card.
Edwards vs. Brady Prediction
Oddsmakers surprisingly favor Brady slightly, possibly due to Edwards’s loss to Muhammad where he was out-wrestled. However, Edwards is anticipated to be more resilient on the ground than he appeared in that fight, and it’s doubtful Brady can replicate Muhammad’s control for a prolonged duration. Edwards is expected to utilize his striking and potentially showcase his own wrestling to secure a decision victory.
Prediction: Edwards by decision
Blachowicz vs. Ulberg Prediction
Jan Blachowicz brings significantly more experience and a higher caliber of opposition to this matchup. His well-rounded skillset and power remain formidable. Despite turning 42 and coming off shoulder surgery, the skill disparity is considered too significant. Blachowicz’s past performances against top fighters like Magomed Ankalaev and Alex Pereira suggest he can overcome Ulberg if he performs to his capabilities.
Prediction: Blachowicz by decision
Holland vs. Nelson Prediction
Kevin Holland returns to welterweight, which is seen as a positive move. However, facing a grappler like Gunnar Nelson presents a challenge. While Nelson is aging and less active, his grappling expertise remains a threat to Holland. Despite Holland’s attempt to revitalize his contender status, Nelson’s ground game is expected to be decisive, likely leading to a submission victory in the second round.
Prediction: Nelson by submission
McCann vs. Thainara Prediction
Molly McCann’s initial opponent change to Alexia Thainara presents a tougher matchup. Thainara, a Contender Series signee, is a strong grappler. While her striking is developing, her grappling prowess poses a significant challenge to McCann, who has shown vulnerabilities in that area. Thainara is expected to exploit McCann’s grappling limitations and secure a submission victory.
Prediction: Thainara by submission
Duncan vs. Vucenic Prediction
This lightweight bout between Chris Duncan and Jordan Vucenic is anticipated to be an exciting contest. Duncan’s fighting style is measured, relying on timing and toughness, while Vucenic is known for his aggressive pressure. Vucenic’s diverse skillset, including striking and submissions, is expected to give him an edge, leading to a decision victory in a potentially thrilling fight.
Prediction: Vucenic by decision
Wood vs. Charriere Prediction
Nathaniel Wood and Morgan Charriere are expected to deliver a captivating opening main card fight. Wood consistently engages in exciting bouts, and this matchup is unlikely to be different. While Wood may have a speed advantage, Charriere possesses more power. Charriere, known for his action-packed fights and willingness to absorb strikes to land bigger shots, is predicted to narrowly win by decision.
Prediction: Charriere by decision