Henry Cejudo vs. Song Yadong: A Legacy at Stake
Henry Cejudo, the former two-division champion, is at a pivotal moment in his career as he prepares to face Song Yadong at UFC Seattle. At 38 years old, Cejudo is well past the athletic peak that most fighters reach, but his storied career and undeniable skill set still make him a formidable opponent. A loss to Song would bring about some unwanted firsts for Cejudo: his first three-fight losing streak and potentially his first loss to a lower-ranked opponent. Moreover, it could push him toward retirement, a scenario that seems increasingly likely given his recent work in broadcasting and podcasting. However, Cejudo’s championship-caliber wrestling and striking, which nearly saw him regain the bantamweight title in his comeback fight against Aljamain Sterling, suggest he still has what it takes. Song Yadong, at 27, has the youth and energy on his side, but his signature wins have been few and far between. Cejudo’s experience and strategic acumen might just edge him over the line in what is expected to be a hard-fought, closely contested bout. Expect Cejudo to use his wrestling to control the pace and potentially secure a decision win, keeping his career alive and likely delaying those retirement talks.
Brendan Allen vs. Anthony Hernandez: A Rematch with High Stakes
Brendan Allen and Anthony Hernandez have been on collision courses since their last encounter at LFA 32 seven years ago. Both fighters have risen through the ranks, but Hernandez appears to be the one on a roll, with an aggressive grappling style and relentless pressure. Allen, while a capable offensive fighter, has not demonstrated the takedown defense necessary to counter Hernandez’s ground game. This bout is a significant test for both, but Hernandez’s current form and confidence make him the favorite. Despite Allen’s determination and occasional submission threats, Hernandez is poised to wear him down and potentially secure a submission in the second round. This fight will either solidify Hernandez as a top contender in the middleweight division or provide Allen with a redemption narrative. Given the circumstances, Hernandez’s momentum and style are likely to prevail.
Rob Font vs. Jean Matsumoto: A Test of Resilience
The matchup between Rob Font and Jean Matsumoto is one of the most intriguing on the card. Rob Font, known for his resilience and high-level boxing, is facing the undefeated 16-0 Jean Matsumoto, who has been rising through the ranks with impressive performances. Although Matsumoto has had only a week to prepare for this fight on short notice, his 100% finish rate and well-rounded game suggest he is more than capable of handling the challenge. Font’s experience and ability to withstand pressure make him a dangerous opponent, but Matsumoto’s youthful energy and comprehensive skills might just edge him over. Expect a competitive and exciting fight, but ultimately, Matsumoto’s comprehensive game and fresh legs should give him the edge, likely resulting in a decision win. This bout could be a turning point for Matsumoto, establishing him as a dark horse contender in a division that has seen significant changes at the top.
Jean Silva vs. Melsik Baghdasaryan: The Future of Featherweight
Jean Silva, the Brazilian finisher, has been making waves in the featherweight division with his brutal striking and relentless pressure. His recent performances against Drew Dober, Charles Jourdain, and Westin Wilson have cemented his reputation as a dangerous fighter. Melsik Baghdasaryan, while a skilled striker, has not faced the level of competition that Silva has. Baghdasaryan’s strategy might be to outpoint Silva and secure a decision, but Silva’s ferocity and willingness to take risks make him a significant threat. The "Fighting Nerds" team, known for their technical prowess, are firmly behind Silva. Given his track record and the high stakes of this fight, Silva is the clear favorite, and a knockout victory is a distinct possibility. This bout will showcase the best of Silva’s finishing abilities and could further solidify his position as a top contender in the featherweight division.
Alonzo Menifield vs. Julius Walker: A Veteran’s Showcase
Alonzo Menifield, a seasoned veteran in the light heavyweight division, faces the undefeated Julius Walker, a 25-year-old prospect who has been making waves with his ground-and-pound style. While Walker’s takedown game is strong, Menifield’s recent losses don’t necessarily indicate a decline in his striking abilities. Menifield’s experience and versatility on the feet will be crucial in neutralizing Walker’s ground game. Walker, despite his impressive record, has yet to show the variety in his game that would make him a true threat at the UFC level. Menifield, who has faced and defeated higher-caliber opponents, is likely to keep this fight standing and use his superior striking to secure a knockout victory. This bout will serve as a significant test for Walker and a potential comeback narrative for Menifield, who has proven time and again that he is not done yet.
Preliminaries: A Night of Unpredictable Fights
The preliminary card of UFC Seattle is filled with promising bouts and potential surprises. Ibo Aslan faces Ion Cutelaba in a heavyweight clash that promises to be a war of attrition. Aslan’s resilience and striking will be key, but Cutelaba’s power and unpredictability could make this a close fight. Andre Fili, a seasoned featherweight, takes on the rising Melquizael Costa, whose submission game is a real threat. Fili’s well-rounded skills and experience should give him the edge, but Costa’s determination will make it a competitive affair. In another intriguing matchup, Mansur Abdul-Malik, known for his submission skills, faces Nick Klein, who has a solid ground game. Abdul-Malik’s technical prowess should see him through, but Klein’s resilience will be tested. Javid Basharat, a promising lightweight, takes on the seasoned Ricky Simon, who has been making a name for himself in the division. Basharat’s striking and pressure will be crucial, but Simon’s elusive style could make this a tough fight. Nikolay Veretennikov and Austin Vanderford face off in a heavyweight bout where Veretennikov’s grappling and striking will be put to the test. Lastly, Nursulton Ruziboev and Eric McConico square off, with Ruziboev’s hungry approach and striking likely to give him the upper hand. Modestas Bukauskas and Raffael Cerqueira round out the preliminary card, with Bukauskas’s well-rounded game and recent form making him the favorite. Each of these bouts offers a unique blend of styles and stories, making the preliminaries a must-watch part of the event.
