Oh boy, the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s undercard for UFC 299 is looking like a real barnburner. It’s happening this Saturday at the Kaseya Center in Miami. And let me tell you, it’s so stacked, it’s giving those UFC Fight Night shows a run for their money.
Now, get this. The prelim that’s got everyone talking? Jailton Almeida vs. Curtis Blaydes. Originally, this showdown was meant to light up Sao Paulo in November. But here we are. Almeida, fresh off a win against Derrick Lewis, is stepping into the octagon with Blaydes. It’s a clash of the titans, folks – heavyweight wrestlers who know their game inside out.
But wait, there’s more. Katlyn Cerminara is up against Maycee Barber, aiming to keep her flyweight ranking intact. Rafael dos Anjos is making a comeback to 155 pounds, facing off with Mateusz Gamrot. And Kyler Phillips? He’s eyeing a spot in the bantamweight Top 15, but Pedro Munhoz stands in his way.
Diving deeper into the lineup, Michel Pereira is always one to watch. Then there’s Robelis Despaigne, a heavyweight prospect that’s turning heads. And don’t forget the opener – Joanne Wood is looking for redemption against Maryna Moroz, nearly nine years after their first bout.
Let’s zoom in on the heavyweights. Curtis Blaydes, with a record that speaks volumes, is going head-to-head with Jailton Almeida. The odds? Almost neck and neck. Almeida’s been on fire, but this fight? It’s his Everest. Moving up from light heavyweight on a whim, he’s been unstoppable. Takedowns, submissions – you name it, he’s done it. And after pushing around a heavyweight like Parker Porter, why stop?
Almeida’s been bulldozing through the competition, but Derrick Lewis made him work for it. Now, facing Blaydes, another wrestling powerhouse, things are about to get interesting.
Blaydes, on the other hand, is a force of nature. Since his debut in 2016, he’s shown he’s got what it takes to be a champ. Despite a hiccup against Francis Ngannou, he’s improved his striking dramatically. Sure, he’s had his ups and downs, but his wins against Junior dos Santos and Chris Daukaus? Stellar.
Yet, Blaydes has his moments of vulnerability, especially when he mixes it up too much. But against Almeida, who’s not known for his knockout power, Blaydes has the edge, at least on paper. The prediction? Blaydes by decision.
So, there you have it. UFC 299’s prelims are not to be missed. From heavyweight showdowns to flyweight defenses, it’s all set to be a night to remember. And who knows? Maybe we’ll witness some history in the making.