Earlier this week, UFC President Dana White called UFC 172, “the most stacked card in UFC history,” as he went through the various fights on the Baltimore card. Whether you agree or disagree with that assessment, it’s time for us to run through our main event predictions…
Jones vs. Teixeira
Jon Jones (19-1) is technically undefeated. His lone loss on his record was a disqualification from illegal elbows to Matt Hamill, but almost every fight since then has gone his way, except for Alexander Gustafsson, who almost derailed the pound-for-pound king. Instead of a rematch with Gus, Jones opted to defend his light heavyweight title against Glover Teixeira (22-2), who has won 20 straight fights and looking to dethrone “Bones.”
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Even though the blueprint was set by Gustafsson, height played a factor, with the Swede being 6’5 and having a one inch advantage over Jones. With Teixeira at 6’2, he won’t have the luxury of looking down at Jones. I think Teixeira will definitely be a game opponent and have some success against Jones, but I think Jones length and skill will be too much. Jones by TKO.
Davis vs. Johnson
It’s the return of Anthony “Rumble” Johnson (16-4) in the co-main event, taking on Phil Davis (12-1), in a match that will have title implications. The winner will be put on the short list of Gustafsson and Daniel Cormier for a shot at the light heavyweight title.
“Rumble” is coming off an impressive six straight wins since leaving the UFC, while “Mr. Wonderful’s” only loss came two years ago to former light heavyweight champion Rashad Evans. High level wrestlers have always given Johnson trouble, but if he’s able to touch Davis, Davis could be out for the count. I think Davis will play it safe and keep “Rumble” on the ground. Davis by decision.
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Notables
Luke Rockhold vs. Tim Boetsch
Both fighters have been on big stage and will be a good matchup for the MMA veterans. An impressive win could catapult one of them into middleweight contender talks. As even as a matchup as you can get — Rockhold by decision.
Jim Miller vs. Yancy Medeiros
Miller was originally slated to face
Bobby Green, but Green pulled out a week before the fight due to injury and Hawaii’s own Yancy Medeiros stepped in to take his place. Medeiros was set to fight Joe Ellenberger, but now will take a huge step up in competition to face the UFC’s ninth ranked lightweight. Miller is extremely tough, with great jiu-jitsu, but I’m going with the underdog here. Medeiros by TKO.
Max Holloway vs. Andre Fili
Even though Fili is a year older than Holloway, his experience pales in comparison to the Hawaiian native. With only one fight in the UFC, Fili will be tested in this featherweight matchup. I think Holloway is ready and will set the tone for the main card. Holloway by decision.
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