UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas brought plenty of excitement, even if some big names were missing. With intense action and great performances, fans are now left wondering what’s next for the evening’s standout fighters. Here are five potential matchups that could build on the momentum created by last night’s thrilling bouts.
1. Gillian Robertson vs. Jessica Andrade (Strawweight)
Gillian Robertson showcased her skills against Luana Pinheiro, controlling the fight with her powerful grappling. Her three-fight win streak at strawweight makes her a strong contender, and she seems ready for a tougher opponent.
A matchup with Jessica Andrade could be the perfect test. Andrade, a former strawweight champ, has been competing in both the 115 and 125-pound divisions. Facing someone as skilled as Andrade would be a big challenge for Robertson, but a win would prove her title-worthiness. Since both fighters are known for exciting finishes, this clash would likely keep fans on the edge of their seats.
2. Mansur Abdul-Malik vs. Gerald Meerschaert (Middleweight)
Mansur Abdul-Malik’s UFC debut was explosive, as he delivered a swift knockout win over Dusko Todorovic. A good test for his second UFC appearance could be veteran Gerald Meerschaert, despite Meerschaert’s recent loss.
Meerschaert’s experience and finishing skills would give Abdul-Malik a unique challenge and allow him to prove his strength against a more seasoned opponent. For viewers, it would be a great matchup to see if Abdul-Malik can overcome a tough, well-rounded fighter on his way up the ranks.
3. Cody Garbrandt vs. Da’Mon Blackshear (Bantamweight)
Da’Mon Blackshear made a statement by quickly submitting Cody Stamann in the first round. With this impressive win, he’s shown he’s ready for a bigger name, though perhaps not yet a top-ranked opponent.
A fight with former champion Cody Garbrandt could provide the right balance. Garbrandt was set to fight at last night’s event but had to bow out, making him a fitting target for Blackshear’s next match. Both fighters are skilled and exciting, and the winner of this matchup could very well crack the top 15 in the bantamweight division.
4. Reinier de Ridder vs. Kevin Holland (Middleweight)
Reinier de Ridder may have had some shaky moments in his UFC debut, but ultimately, he secured a third-round submission victory over Gerald Meerschaert. As a former two-division champion from ONE Championship, de Ridder has strong credentials, but he still needs more experience in the UFC.
A fight with Kevin Holland would be an intriguing next step. Holland, known for his dangerous and unpredictable fighting style, would test de Ridder’s skill and composure. If de Ridder can handle Holland, he’d prove he’s ready for even tougher competition.
5. Carlos Prates vs. Gilbert Burns (Welterweight)
Carlos Prates turned heads with his dominant performance against Neil Magny, ending the fight with a powerful knockout. After such an impressive win, it’s time to put Prates up against a high-level opponent, and Gilbert Burns fits the bill.
Burns, a top welterweight contender, would offer Prates his biggest challenge yet, testing his skills against a powerful and seasoned fighter. A matchup between Prates and Burns would be a major stepping stone for Prates as he climbs the ranks, and it would be an intense fight for fans to enjoy.
These matchups offer compelling challenges and could shape the futures of these fighters in the UFC.
Also Read: Marcus Buchecha Almeida’s MMA Journey: A BJJ Legend’s Rise
