The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is set to return to the UFC Apex with a series of exciting prelims. Leading the card, bantamweight Marcus McGhee aims to extend his promotional success with a win over J.P. Buys at the UFC on ESPN 51 undercard. Apart from the headlining bout, two other intriguing fights are scheduled: Terrance McKinney attempting to halt a recent decline against Mike Breeden, and featherweight prospect Isaac Dulgarian making his Octagon debut against promising talent Francis Marshall. Beyond these matchups, the event features a mix of prospects and Dana White’s Contender Series alumni, all vying to carve out their niche in the stacked UFC roster.
Bantamweights
Marcus McGhee (7-1, 1-0 UFC) faces off against J.P. Buys (9-5, 0-3 UFC) in the bantamweight division. McGhee made a strong impression during his UFC debut in April, stepping in on just three days’ notice and emerging victorious in the second round with a submission win. At 33 years old, time is ticking for McGhee to make a run through the deep bantamweight division, starting with a potentially challenging fight against Buys.
On the other hand, the 27-year-old Buys earned his UFC contract in 2020 after relocating from South Africa to the United States and competing multiple times on DWCS. However, his UFC career has been frustrating so far, with some flashes of brilliance overshadowed by athletic disadvantages and questionable durability. Buys’ wrestling skills may come in handy in his quest for his first UFC win in his fourth attempt, but it seems likelier that McGhee will find a way to finish the fight. The prediction favors McGhee via second-round knockout.
Other Exciting Matchups
In addition to the bantamweight clash, fans can look forward to Terrance McKinney’s attempt to turn around his recent skid as he faces off against Mike Breeden. Both fighters will be eager to prove themselves and regain momentum in their respective careers. Featherweight prospect Isaac Dulgarian is also set to make his long-awaited Octagon debut, going up against another promising talent in Francis Marshall. This matchup promises to showcase the skills and potential of two up-and-coming athletes in the featherweight division.
As the UFC on ESPN 51 prelims approach, fight enthusiasts can expect a night of thrilling bouts and memorable performances from both seasoned fighters and fresh prospects. Whether it is the bantamweight battle between McGhee and Buys, the showdown between McKinney and Breeden, or the anticipated debut of Dulgarian against Marshall, there is no shortage of excitement and intrigue in the stacked UFC roster.