UFC

Charles Oliveira submits Dustin Poirier at UFC 269

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In the main event of UFC 269 we saw a highly anticipated matchup for the lightweight title. The champion Charles Oliveira (31-8) took on ‘The Diamond’ Dustin Poirier (28-6, 1 NC).

Poirier finally got another crack at the undisputed lightweight title. After capturing the interim title, Poirier got a shot at the UFC‘s undisputed title back in 2019 against Khabib Nurmagomedov. Poirier was submitted in that fight.

However, since then, he hasn’t lost. This year alone, Poirier has defeated former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor twice.

Charles Oliveira might be the most complete lightweight in the UFC and it should be no shock to anyone that he’s become lightweight champion.

With Oliveira, it was never a question regarding talent. On pure talent and skill, you can easily make the argument that he’s near the very top of the UFC. However, he always struggled to put everything together.

You cannot say that anymore. Oliveira has gone on an incredible run and that run culminated at UFC 262 when he stopped Michael Chandler to become undisputed lightweight champion.

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 main event kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Immediate pressure from Oliveira who throws a flying knee. Big elbow inside from Oliveira. However, Poirier sits him down briefly with a big right hand.

However, Oliveira goes right back on the pressure. Big shots from both men. Nice knees to the body from Oliveira but Poirier cracks him with a big shot to get some space. Beautiful lead uppercut from Oliveira. However, again, Poirier lands a nice shot to back him off.

Oliveira shoots for his first takedown. Poirier defends well but eats another knee to the body. Big shots from Poirier seem to rock Oliveira. Oliveira lands another knee to the body. Big body kick from Oliveira.

Big hook from Poirier sits down Oliveira again. However, Oliveira brings him right into the guard to recover. Poirier stands up and he starts pressuring big. Big shots from Poirier and Oliveira looks rocked.

However, Oliveira is standing in the pocket and he’s throwing back heavy shots of his own. Crazy pace and a crazy round one at UFC 269 that should go to Dustin Poirier.

Round 2

Entering the second at UFC 269 and I’m almost out of breath just following this fight. The second round starts with a touch of the gloves. Immediate pressure from Oliveira to start the second round. Big body kick from Oliveira and he shoots for a takedown.

Poirier defending well here against the fence. Knee to the body from Oliveira who is trying to drag Poirier to the ground. Poirier scrambles and Oliveira tries to attack an arm. Oliveira uses that to get the top position.

The champion settles into the guard and he lands a nice elbow. Another big elbow from Oliveira. Nasty ground and pound here from the champion. Poirier is just holding Oliveira here in the second.

Massive elbows from Oliveira who is dominating the challenger here in round two. Thirty seconds left and this has been a very one-sided round for the UFC champion. Punch to the body and elbow up top from the champion. Dominant second round comes to a close for Oliveira.

Round 3

Entering the third at UFC 269 and it’s 1-1 after two. Immediate pressure again from the champion and he starts with a body kick. Right straight from Oliveira and he transitions right to a takedown attempt.

Oliveira immediately transitions to the back of the challenger. The champion gets on Poirier’s back and he’s trying for a choke here. Poirier is trying to defend but Oliveira locks the choke in. Poirier tries to fight it but is forced to tap. The UFC lightweight title stays in Brazil.

Charles Oliveira def. Dustin Poirier by Submission – Round 3

Julianna Pena submits Amanda Nunes at UFC 269

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In the co-main event of UFC 269, the greatest female fighter of all time made her bantamweight return. Amanda Nunes (21-4) will defended her bantamweight crown for the first time in two years as she took on Julianna Pena (10-4).

For years now, Amanda Nunes has dominated everyone she’s faced in the UFC. From featherweight to bantamweight, she’s simply been the best. Nobody has seemingly wanted to fight her.

That is, everyone outside of Julianna Pena. To Pena’s credit, she’s been calling for a fight with Nunes ever since UFC 200. Pena has always said that she had the style to defeat The Lioness.

Tonight, on the heels of a win over Sara McMann, Pena got that shot. However, she might’ve been the only person who thought she was going to win at UFC 269

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 bantamweight title fight kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Nunes immediately takes the center and she’s light on her toes. Pena feinting but not coming forward. Big leg kick from Nunes sits Pena down briefly.

Pena eats another leg kick as soon as she gets up. Nunes steps in and Pena fires a combination. Pena gets set down by a jab fro Nunes. The power discrepancy is huge here. Nunes throws some ground and pound, but Pena gets up and goes for a takedown.

Hip toss from Nunes and Nunes ends up on top. The champion settles into top position and she takes the back of Julianna Pena quickly. Pena is trying to defend and is able to get back to half guard. Nunes remaining patient just controlling the challenger.

Big smile from Nunes as she’s in full control here. Pena continues to try and defend and she starts attacking a kimura. However, there’s not a ton of time left here in the opening round. The round comes to a close and it’s 1-0 Nunes at UFC 269.

Round 2

Entering the second at UFC 269 and Nunes is smiling from ear to ear. Body kick from Nunes starts the striking. Both women exchange jabs. Big jab from Nunes. However, Pena rocks Nunes and the crowd is going crazy.

Nunes lands a big shot and Pena backs up. Nunes is getting reckless here in teh second round and Pena lands some big counters. Oh my goodness Pena hurts Nunes again. These two are just swinging.

Pena hurts Nunes badly and Nunes looks exhausted. Pena gets the back of Nunes and locks up a choke. Nunes is exhausted and taps. Julianna Pena pulls off the biggest upset arguably in UFC history.

Julianna Pena def. Amanda Nunes by Submission – Round 2

Geoff Neal edges Santiago Ponzinibbio at UFC 269

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On the main card of UFC 269, we saw a showdown in the welterweight division. Two top contenders faced off as Argentina’s Santiago Ponzinibbio (28-4) took on Geoff Neal (13-4).

Both of these men find themselves in a similar spot at UFC 269. At one point, both looked like they were on the path to becoming UFC champion. However, they’ve both been derailed.

Ponzinibbio has been hindered by injuries and a knockout loss to Li Jingliang. However, he did bounce back earlier this year with a win over Miguel Baeza.

Geoff Neal on the other hand has lost his last two UFC fights. Prior to those two losses, he had won five straight which included wins over Belal Muhammad and Niko Price.

Both men were looking to make a statement and show why they are still top contenders.

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 welterweight contest kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Ponzinibbio immediately takes the center and he’s looking to pressure Neal. Neal circles on the outside as he tries to gauge the range.

Neal comes forward with double jab but both fall short. Two powerful leg kicks land for Neal. Neal looks for a head kick that just misses. Nice 1-2 down the middle from Ponzinibbio. Left straight lands for Neal.

Nice low kick lands for Ponzinibbio and Neal counters with a high kick. Lots of pressure here from Neal and he lands a combination. Nice jab lands from Ponzinibbio. Two shots land from Ponzinibbio but Neal counters with his own combination.

Two good lead right hooks for Neal and Ponzinibbio is cut. Lots of pressure for Neal and he lands another good combination. Ponzinibbio tries to fire back but Neal is not there to be found. More pressure from Ponzinibbio and he’s trying to make this a brawl.

However, Neal circles on the outside. Lots of forward pressure from Ponzinibbio and he lands a couple of solid kicks. The round comes to a close and it was a close one but I lean Neal at UFC 269.

Round 2

Ponzinibbio was really finding his rhythm at the end of the first at UFC 269 so it’ll be interesting to watch him here in the second. Ponzinibbio immediately goes back to the pressure to start the second. Nice lead left hook lands for Ponzinibbio.

Low kick from Ponzinibbio. Neal tries to slip and counter but just misses. Both men step in and trade big shots. Ponzinibbio throws a big leg kick but Neal checks it perfectly and that might’ve hurt Ponzinibbio. However, Ponzinibbio resets and he looks okay.

Nice lead left for Neal. Body kick lands for Geoff Neal and he throws a left behind it. Out of no where, Ponzinibbio tries for a takedown. However, Neal defends well and keeps the fight standing. Neal starting to move forward a little ore.

Straight left from Neal and Ponzinibbio lands one of his own. Nice combination from Ponzinibbio backs Neal up against the fence. Neal circles out and he lands a nice right straight. Both men step forward and land good shots.

Back to back 1-2’s for Ponzinibbio. Neal lands a nice shot and Ponzinibbio complains of an eye poke. However, the ref says it’s clean. The round comes to a close and Ponzinibbio looked better in the second. Might be 1-1 after two at UFC 269.

Round 3

Entering the final round at UFC 269 and whoever wins this round will likely win the fight. Ponzinibbio takes the center to start the final round. Neal continues to circle on the outside. Nice shot from Ponzinibbio and Neal lands a counter left.

Check right hook from Neal and Ponzinibbio goes down briefly. Neal rushes and lands another good shot. However, Ponzinibbio recovers well and he circles out. Low kick lands for Ponzinibbio. Double jabs from Ponzinibbio who is starting to collect points here.

Good combination from Ponzinibbio who has now retaken momentum. However, Neal starts moving forward. Another good check right hook from Neal. Ponzinibbio lands a stiff shot right down the middle.

Both men are looking tired here in the final frame. Pressure from Ponzinibbio and he lands a stiff right hand. Neal counters but Ponzinibbio then lands a good combination. Another combination from Ponzinibbio.

Solid left from Neal but he eats a big kick from Ponzinibbio for his troubles. Ponzinibbio pulling away here in the final round. Big shots from Ponzinibbio. However, Neal takes momentum back a little with a few big shots of his own.

Huge combination from Neal lands and Ponzinibbio looks a little wobbled. Another big combination from Neal. Neal has Ponzinibbio hurt here in the final frame. Ponzinibbio still throwing but Neal lands. Close final round and honestly either could win at UFC 269.

Geoff Neal def. Santiago Ponzinibbio by Split Decision (29-28, 30-27, 28-29)

Kai Kara-France knocks out Cody Garbrandt at UFC 269

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kai kara france

On the main card of UFC 269 we saw the highly anticipated flyweight debut of Cody Garbrandt (12-4). The former bantamweight champion dropped down to 125 pounds to take on Kai Kara-France (22-9).

Originally, the former UFC champion was planning on making the drop to flyweight last year. However, after coming down with Covid and having a bicep injury, he decided to stay at bantamweight for one more fight.

That fight came against Rob Font earlier this year. Garbrandt lost that fight and afterwards he decided it was time for him to finally make the switch to 125.

He jumped right in there with one of the more exciting flyweights in the UFC in Kai Kara-France. Overall, Kara-France is 5-2 since making his debut with the UFC.

His two losses came against the current champion Brandon Moreno and top contender Brandon Royval. The last time we saw Kara-France was against Rogerio Bontorin where he won by decision.

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 flyweight contest started with a swift low kick from Garbrandt. The size difference is pretty big here in the opening seconds. Both men trade jabs in the center. Garbrandt circles on the outside and he lands another leg kick.

Kara-France ups the pressure here trying to cut Garbrandt off. Garbrandt continues to circles trying to gauge the range. Low kick from Kara-France and he tries to throw a 1-2 behind it. Another low kick from Kara-France. 

Kara-France comes in and Garbrandt just misses with a big counter. Nice jab from Kara-France and he throws a leg kick behind it. Huge right hand from Kara-France drops Garbrandt. Garbrandt jumps right back up but gets dropped again. 

Kara-France is all over him but Garbrandt waves him on. These two reset and they’re back to striking. Garbrandt still looks shaky and Kara-France drops him again. This fight is over and Kai Kara-France spoils the flyweight debut of Cody Garbrandt at UFC 269. 

Kai Kara-France def. Cody Garbrandt by KO – Round 1

Sean O’Malley stops Raulian Paiva at UFC 269

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Sean O'Malley

Kicking off the PPV main card at UFC 269 was a battle between two dynamic strikers in the bantamweight division. The Suga Show returned as Sean O’Malley (14-1) took on Brazilian standout Raulian Paiva (21-3).

Raulian Paiva made his UFC debut at 17-1 and he did it in the flyweight division. However, he got off to a rough start.

Paiva lost his first two fights and ultimately moved up in weight. He’s now on a three-fight winning streak which includes a win over O’Malley’s teammate in Kyler Phillips.

That said, Paiva had a tall mountain to climb at UFC 269. Sean O’Malley is one of the more dynamic fighters in all the UFC. He’s incredibly talented wherever the fight takes place, but he shines in the stand up.

O’Malley is huge for the weight class and he’s going to have a big size advantage on Saturday night. After suffering his first loss to Chito Vera last year, O’Malley has bounced back with two solid wins this year.

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 bantamweight started with immediate pressure from O’Malley. The striking starts with a body kick from O’Malley. Paiva tries to catch a kick and take O’Malley down but O’Malley defends well.

Now it’s Paiva pressure as O’Malley circles the outside. Good jab from O’Malley. O’Malley looks for a body kick and Paiva lands one of his own. Paiva looking to get more aggressive here and he lands a nice low kick.

Paiva catches O’Malley with a nice right straight. Low kick behind it causes O’Malley to switch stances. Halfway through the round and Paiva continues with the pressure. Big left straight lands for O’Malley but Paiva doesn’t seem bothered.

Another good low kick lands for Paiva. Lots of feints from O’Malley. O’Malley tripes up on the jab to get some space after eating a low kick from Paiva. O’Malley steps in but it’s Paiva that throws. However, nothing solid lands.

Paiva pushes forward with a combination. O’Malley lands a flush right hand and Paiva is hurt badly. O’Malley all over him and Paiva is out on his feet. The referee is giving Paiva every opportunity but O’Malley finishes the fight. Huge performance at UFC 269 from The Suga Show.

Sean O’Malley def. Raulian Paiva by TKO – Round 1

Josh Emmett edges Dan Ige at UFC 269

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In the featured prelim of UFC 269, we saw a highly anticipated matchup between two finishers at 145 pounds. Josh Emmett (16-2) made his highly anticipated return as he took on Dan Ige (15-4).

Had it not been for injuries, Josh Emmett could have fought for a UFC title by now. He’s that special and talented. The last time we saw him was against Shane Burgos last year.

Despite tearing virtually every ligament in his knee in the opening round, Emmett gutted it out and got the decision win. Many were looking forward to this return at UFC 269.

Dan Ige is trying to establish himself as one of the best featherweights in the UFC. After winning six straight, Ige got a main event last year against Calvin Kattar.

He lost that fight but bounced back with a quick knockout over Gavin Tucker. In his last fight, he lost to The Korean Zombie, Chan Sung Jung.

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 featherweight contest kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Emmett immediately takes the center and Ige opens with a jab. Good low kick lands for Ige who has now taken the center.

Looks like Emmett is just feeling things out in the opening minute. Then out of no where, a massive right hand from Emmett drops Ige. Emmett pounces, however, Ige defends well and then he ends up briefly on the back of Emmett.

Emmett reverses the position and stands the fight back up. Ige still is looking a little hurt, however, he’s pressing forward. Nice combination from Ige and he lands a low kick behind it. Emmett is looking for one big shot here as Ige is throwing combos.

Two straight big jabs from Ige find their mark. Another good jab from Ige and the nose of Emmett is starting to show some damage. Solid combination from Ige who is really starting to look good in the final part of this round.

Emmett pushes forward but nothing lands. Both men land big shots in the final seconds of the round. Ige definitely looked good in spots, but the first goes to Josh Emmett at UFC 269.

Round 2

Entering the second at UFC 269 and Ige looked to get a little momentum there at the end of the first. The second round starts with a massive right hand from Emmett which immediately stiffens up Ige a big.

Powerful low kick from Emmett. Ige moves forward and lands a really nice combination. Another good combination from Ige who finishes with a nice shot to the body. Good body shot from Emmett.

Ige shoots for a takedown, however, Emmett defends well and lands a couple of really nice shots. However, Ige rocks him with a nice left and Emmett’s legs wobble. Ige pushing forward as Emmett looks to regain his footing.

Ige shoots for a takedown, however, Emmett again defends well and they’re back to striking. Two straight stiff jabs from Ige. Both men trade big jabs. Wind up right hand and a body kick land for Dan Ige.

Huge left hook and a jab behind it for Ige. Ige looks sensational here in the second round. 1-2 down the middle for Dan Ige. Emmett loads up but nothing lands. Ige lands a beautiful counter on Emmett.

Emmett trying to push forward, but he’s not landing much here. Nice lead uppercut from Dan Ige. The second round comes to a close at UFC 269 and it should be Ige’s round.

Round 3

Entering the final round at UFC 269 and it should be 1-1 entering the final frame. Emmett opens the final frame aggressive but he’s whiffing on his shots. Ige lands a couple of nice shots up the middle to start his striking.

Emmett trying to throw more combinations here in the final round and he lands a nice one. However, Ige pops his head back with another nice jab. Another jab from Ige. Lead left hook from Ige.

Emmett lands a couple of bombs and Ige looks hurt for a moment. However, he lands a knee and backs Emmett up. Double jab lands for Dan Ige. Another stiff jab from Ige and Emmett is breathing with his mouth open.

Ige throws a big power shot and Emmett throws back but neither man lands. Short left hook lands for Emmett and Ige lands a body kick. Emmett looks much better in the third as he throws his own jab. Ige is not as active as we enter the final minute.

Ige tries for a takedown, however, Emmett defends well. Emmett lands a shot, but Ige is back on the pressure.Nice short left from Emmett but Ige steps in and lands a nice combination. Both men throw heavy in the final seconds and the round comes to a close. Razor close third round that could go to either man at UFC 269.

Josh Emmett def. Dan Ige by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 30-27)

Dominick Cruz defeats Pedro Munhoz at UFC 269

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Dominick Cruz

On the prelims of UFC 269, we saw a tremendous matchup in the bantamweight division. Former champion Dominick Cruz (23-3) took on contender Pedro Munhoz (19-6, 1 NC).

Dominick Cruz is considered by many to be the greatest bantamweight in UFC history. He was the first bantamweight champion for the promotion and he had a tremendous run at the top of the division.

However, injuries really derailed the career of Cruz. For example, he’s only fought six times in the last ten years. The last time we saw him was at UFC 259 when he won a close decision over young contender Casey Kenney.

Back in 2019, it appeared that Pedro Munhoz was on the cusp of a UFC title shot. He had won three in a row which included a knockout win over former UFC champion Cody Garbrandt.

That win got him a fight with Aljamain Sterling which he ultimately dropped by decision. Starting with that fight, Munhoz is just 1-3 in his last four fights. His last fight was a decision loss to Jose Aldo at UFC 265 in August.

UFC 269 Recap

Round 1

The UFC 269 bantamweight contest kicked off with a touch of the gloves. Cruz immediately starts moving back and forth and opens with a kick. Munhoz tries for a head kick of his own but doesn’t land.

Good low kick lands for Munhoz. Munhoz misses with a big head kick and Cruz pops him with a 1-2. Another nice straight shot from Cruz. Cruz catches Munhoz clean with a nice left hand. Munhoz hits another leg kick and Cruz tries for a takedown.

Pedro Munhoz defends and they’re back to striking. Good low kick and a combination behind it from Cruz. Munhoz pushes forward trying to land back but nothing lands. Another 1-2 for Cruz.

Huge left hand for Munhoz and down goes Cruz. Cruz is out on his feet as he gets back up. Munhoz drops him again and Cruz dives on a leg. It appears that Cruz is going to survive after using his defensive wrestling.

Munhoz lets Cruz back up and they’re back to striking. Cruz lands nicely but Munhoz is stalking him here in the final minute. Good knee to the body and a combination from Cruz. Beautiful jab from Munhoz.

It’s remarkable how much Cruz has recovered here. Another jab from Munhoz but Cruz lands a big combination that backs him up. Big shots from Cruz as the round ends. Cruz did well, but Munhoz takes the first at UFC 269.

Round 2

Entering the second round at UFC 269 and it looks like Cruz was able to get momentum near the end of the first. He starts the second with another good combination after catching a low kick from Munhoz. Solid 1-2 for Cruz lands.

Another good 1-2 for Cruz who appears to be back on stable ground here in the second. Munhoz lands a nice body kick. Head kick attempt from Munhoz just misses. Good jab from Cruz. He follows that up with a nice 1-2.

Munhoz gets popped with another 1-2 and then he tries to answer with a combination. Munhoz shoots for a takedown and Cruz defends easily. Both men exchange jabs in the center. Nice lead left for Cruz.

1-2 for Cruz and Munhoz counters with a double jab. Cruz pushing forward here and throws a leg kick. Munhoz lands a jab but that triggers a combination from Cruz that cuts him open. Another good combination from Cruz lands.

Beautiful striking on display from the former UFC champion in the second. Another good combination and Cruz is pulling away with this round. Massive combination from Cruz and Munhoz looked hurt for a second. The round comes to a close and a dominant one for Cruz.

Round 3

Entering the final round and whoever wins this round likely wins this fight at UFC 269. They touch gloves and here we go. Munhoz lands some solid shots and he’s heavy on the pressure here in the final round.

1-2 for Cruz and Munhoz pushes forward to counter. Munhoz much more aggressive here in the final round. Good combination from Cruz backs Munhoz off the pressure. Another nice 1-2 lands for Cruz and he’s keeping Munhoz at range here.

Good jab from Cruz but Munhoz catches him flush with a huge right hand. However, Cruz resets and lands another good combination. Munhoz chasing here and lands a jab. Good knee to the body from Cruz but Munhoz is on him here with the pressure.

Massive 1-2 from Cruz stops the pressure from Munhoz. Nice jab rom Munhoz however, Cruz counters with a big shot. Another 1-2 from Cruz and Munhoz lands a straight shot right after. Lead right hand from Cruz.

Cruz lands a big combination that Munhoz just eats. Low kick from Cruz. Munhoz pushes Cruz against the fence and tries to land something big but the former UFC champion makes him miss.

Big body kick from Munhoz. However, a nice body shot counter from Cruz. Both men trade jabs in the center. Good combination from Cruz. Munhoz steps is up but Cruz hits him flush as the round comes to a close. Should be 29-28 Dominick Cruz at UFC 269.

 Dominick Cruz def. Pedro Munhoz by Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

UFC 269 Preview: Amanda Nunes – Julianna Pena

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In the co-main event of UFC 269, the greatest female fighter of all time makes her bantamweight return. Amanda Nunes (21-4) will defend her bantamweight crown for the first time in two years when she takes on Julianna Pena (10-4).

What can’t you say about Amanda Nunes? She’s the greatest female fighter of all time and she has an unreal resume. She’s defeated Valentina Shevchenko (twice), Cris Cyborg, Holly Holm, Miesha Tate, Ronda Rousey, and more.

Her last two UFC fights were defenses of her featherweight title. The fights were so one-sided that you felt like they just weren’t even fair. We haven’t seen Nunes at 135 since her successful title defense over Germaine de Randamie.

Welcoming Nunes back to 135 is Julianna Pena. Julianna Pena might be the only person in the world who believes that she will win at UFC 269. However, that’s the kind of confidence you need when you fight Amanda Nunes.

Most of the time, Nunes has you beat before you even step into the cage. The perfect example is Megan Anderson. However, Julianna Pena is not going to be intimidated. She fights with a lot of pressure and believes she will win at UFC 269.

In her last fight against Sara McMann, we saw Pena come back from adversity. It was a close fight, but she dug down deep to get a finish. That ability to dig deep is going to be key against Amanda Nunes.

UFC 269 Prediction

As mentioned, Julianna Pena is not going to be intimidated at UFC 269. I don’t expect her to be afraid of Amanda Nunes, but that lack of fear might make this a very quick night at the office for the champion.

Julianna Pena has no chance of winning this fight at range. If she attempts to fight from kickboxing range, this fight is going to be over within two minutes. Pena has to come right out and pressure Nunes quickly to try and get the fight to the mat.

Pena’s only chance is to either tire Nunes or take her down. I don’t see either happening. In reality, this fight at UFC 269 is not getting out of the first round and if it does, I’ll be stunned.

I think that Amanda Nunes wants to send a message and remind everyone why she’s the goat. Silencing Julianna Pena would just be the icing on the cake for the champ.

Prediction: Amanda Nunes by TKO – Round 1

UFC 269 Preview: Charles Oliveira – Dustin Poirier

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In the main event of UFC 269 we will see a highly anticipated matchup for the lightweight title. The champion Charles Oliveira (31-8) will be looking to successfully defend his title for the first time when he takes on ‘The Diamond’ Dustin Poirier (28-6, 1 NC).

Poirier is finally going to get another crack at the undisputed lightweight title. After capturing the interim title, Poirier got a shot at the UFC‘s undisputed title back in 2019 against Khabib Nurmagomedov. Poirier was submitted in that fight.

However, since then, he hasn’t lost. This year alone, Poirier has defeated former two-division UFC champion Conor McGregor twice. Now, he’s looking to ride that momentum and capture undisputed gold.

That said, he has a very tall order tomorrow night. Charles Oliveira might be the most complete lightweight in the UFC and it should be no shock to anyone that he’s become lightweight champion.

With Oliveira, it was never a question regarding talent. On pure talent and skill, you can easily make the argument that he’s near the very top of the UFC. However, he always struggled to put everything together.

You cannot say that anymore. Oliveira has gone on an incredible run and that run culminated at UFC 262 when he stopped Michael Chandler to become undisputed lightweight champion.

UFC 269 Prediction

This is one of those fights where you truly don’t want either man to lose. Two of the best fighters in the UFC and two of the best individuals you will come across in the promotion. However, someone has to lose, and someone will tomorrow night.

The striking is going to be very interesting to watch. Dustin Poirier has some of the best boxing in the UFC. Charles Oliveira has some of the best pure Muay Thai in the UFC. If this fight is at range, Oliveira has a huge advantage.

However, I don’t think Poirier will keep this at distance. Poirier is best when he goes downhill, and I expect that from him tomorrow. Expect a lot of pressure from The Diamond as he tries to break Oliveira.

One thing to watch out for is the takedowns of Oliveira. Oliveira has perfect timing on his takedowns and if Poirier presses too hard, he might get taken down which is not where you want to be with Charles Oliveira.

I keep going back and forth for this UFC 269 prediction. On technique alone, Oliveira is the better fighter in my opinion. However, when it comes to being just a pure dog inside the octagon, there’s none tougher than Poirier.

I’m expecting fireworks but in the end, I think the kid from Lafayette is going to become undisputed lightweight champion. Poirier’s pressure finally gets to Oliveira and he becomes UFC champion in the fourth.

Prediction: Dustin Poirier by TKO – Round 4

UFC 269 Main Card Predictions: Part 2

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dustin poirier, ufc

Following an action-packed year filled with tenacious battles and epic showdowns, the UFC is wrapping up 2021 with yet another special main card. Taking place on December 11th at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, UFC 269 has everything in the makings of being one of the most thrilling events of the year.

At the forefront of the main card are two championship matchups highlighted by the two best mixed martial artists that train out of American Top Team.

With her legacy and title reign on the line, ATT’s Women’s Bantamweight Champion Amanda Nunes will take on one of the division’s fiercest in number three ranked Julianna Peña. While in the men’s lightweight division, ATT’s very own number one contender in Dustin Poirier will take on the elite and newly appointed Lightweight Champion in Charles Oliveira.

Prior to these two title clashes, ATT welterweight Jorge Masvidal was supposed to take on number three ranked Leon Edwards in what was going to be a definitive title qualifying matchup. But due to a rib injury Masvidal suffered during training camp, the fight was scrapped off the card, and the welterweight showdown between Geoff Neal and Santiago Ponzinibbio was bumped up from the prelims instead.

Though this fight won’t have championship aspirations connected to it, both welterweights are very much looking to propel themselves into the Top 10 of the division, making for an exciting showdown to add to the main card.

Without further ado, here are the three mixed martial artists that have the best chance to walk away with a victory from UFC 269.

3. Geoff Neal vs Santiago Ponzinibbio

Geoff “Handz Of Steel” Neal:

Ever since he stepped into the octagon, Geoff Neal has proven just how dangerous of a threat he can be towards this welterweight division. Coming off back-to-back wins in 2018 to kick off his UFC career, Neal followed that up with three straight victories in 2019, taking down the likes of Belal Muhammad by unanimous decision as well as Niko Price and Mike Perry by KO/TKO.

Bringing a versatile array of skills to the table, Neal can hold his own against just about anyone in this division, whether the brunt of the fight takes place on the mat or remains standing. With one-punch knockout power and lethal leg kicks at his disposal, Neal can also deal plenty of damage on the ground and in the clinch, often incorporating a slew of biting elbow strikes to get the job done.

Though he’s coming off two straight losses, both were against Top 10 contenders in Stephen Thompson and Neil Magny, with each bout going to unanimous decision. Despite coming up short in his last two matchups, Neal has everything he needs to get the job done on Saturday.

Santiago “Argentine Dagger” Ponzinibbio:

At age 35, Santiago Ponzinibbio is still a force to be reckoned with. Setting foot in the UFC in 2013, Ponzinibbio has made the most of his eight-year tenure and has illustrated all too often just how tenacious he can be.

Since he stepped into the UFC, Ponzinibbio has gone 10-3 and took out some tough welterweights in the process. After his knockout loss to Lorenz Larkin in 2015, Ponzinibbio won his next seven straight fights, a streak that was topped off by his highlight-worthy, fourth-round knockout against Neil Magny back in 2018.

However, following that fight three years ago, Ponzinibbio has been pretty inactive, and his touch for the talent level of this division hasn’t been as sharp as it once was. After a two-year hiatus over 2019 and 2020, Ponzinibbio made his return to the octagon against Li Jingliang earlier this year only to be viciously knocked out in the first round by the Chinese native.

Though he was able to bounce back from that loss with a big unanimous decision victory against Miguel Baeza this summer, Ponzinibbio will need to bring his best performance if he aims to secure a second straight victory against a far more challenging opponent in Geoff Neal.

Winner: Geoff Neal

Entering this exciting clash, Neal is the 12th ranked welterweight in the world while Ponzinibbio is 14th. But despite the difference, this showdown will be a lot closer than it seems. The unique balance in talent, skillsets, and experience from both mixed martial artists debatably grants each a stark, even 50/50 chance to takedown the other in this much-anticipated welterweight fight.

However, since a draw is rather unlikely to occur between these two, the edge is in favor of Neal and for two big reasons. The first comes down to his versatility. Though Ponzinibbio is a great striker and matches up well with Neal on that front, Neal is better on the mat and has a takedown defense of 92% to Ponzinibbio’s 60%.

Secondly, Neal has come off two straight influential learning experiences through his losses against two elite Top 10 welterweights. On the other hand, Ponzinibbio got mauled by the 13th ranked welterweight in his first fight back to the octagon in two years. Though it could come down to a decision ruling, expect Neal to come out on top with a big bounce-back victory on Saturday night.

2. Amanda Nunes vs Julianna Peña

Amanda “The Lioness” Nunes:

If there’s any living definition of what it means to be the greatest women’s mixed martial artist of all time, it’s embodied within the one and only, Amanda Nunes. Listed as the number one pound-for-pound women’s mixed martial artist in the UFC, Nunes is currently the only women’s champion in UFC history to hold two belts simultaneously and has strung together nine straight title victories over the last five years.

With the women’s featherweight division largely inactive at this point in time, Nunes has just two successful featherweight title defenses to her name but has already collected a total of five title defenses at 135.

At age 33, Nunes is still going strong and has evolved into an unstoppable force that has been impossible to crack. On one hand, Nunes brings an unparalleled level of strength and quickness on the mat that is supported by her black belt in jiu-jitsu and brown belt in judo. But on the other hand, Nunes is a deadly striker that has developed a level of power that can put her opponents to sleep with one blow.

There’s simply nothing Nunes can’t do, and she will look to put that on full display once more on Saturday.

Julianna “The Venezuelan Vixen” Peña:

Julianna Peña has ascended into one of the toughest competitors in this women’s bantamweight division. Though her strengths and expertise tend to fall more towards the grappling side of mixed martial arts, Peña’s incredible athleticism has allowed her to really come into her own as a striker as well.

While Peña doesn’t possess one-punch power, her significant striking accuracy stands at an impressive 67.82%, which allows her to pick a part her opponents with lethal precision. Along with that, Peña brings an unrelenting, rapid-firestorm level of volume with her blows that can be very difficult to fend off on the ground or up against the cage.

Entering this matchup, Peña will need to deliver a near-flawless performance if she stands a chance at taking out the champion. But from her endurance to her grit to her versatility, Peña has the means to deliver a major upset and can definitely go the distance with Nunes. And if the window of opportunity presents itself, be prepared for Peña to take full advantage and do everything she possibly can to steal the belt from the champion.

Winner: Amanda Nunes

What makes this championship bout so fascinating is that Nunes and Peña have never faced each other before. However, the greatest question mark for Peña has been her recent track record when tested by top-tier talent.

Following a remarkable three-fight win streak from 2015 to 2016 in which she took out both Jessica Eye and Cat Zingano, Peña came up short in a non-title fight a year later via submission against the future Women’s Flyweight Champion in Valentina Shevchenko. After coming off a two-and-a-half-year break from the octagon in 2019, Peña did manage to come out on top with a win against Nicco Montano. But just a year later, she came up short once again by submission, this time at the hands of Germaine de Randamie.

Though Peña was able to bounce back from her loss against de Randamie with a big win against Sarah McMann earlier this year, Nunes still carries a significant edge coming into this fight.

The reality of the matter is that Nunes has beaten both fighters that Peña has lost to, not just once but twice. To add to it, Nunes not only brings much better striking but is extremely talented on the ground and posts a strong takedown defense of 84%. Meanwhile, Peña is not much of a match for Nunes at the striking level and has a takedown defense of just 23%.

Either way you look at it, expect Nunes to walk out of the octagon with the belt on her shoulder come Saturday night.

1. Charles Oliveira vs Dustin Poirier

Charles “Do Bronx” Oliveira:

Charles Oliveira is a marvel. Making his debut well over eleven years ago in 2010, Oliveira has just about seen it all, yet at age 32, has just scratched the surface of the greatness he possesses.

Truly one of the greatest grapplers this sport has ever seen, Oliveira has the most submissions in UFC history (14), and 19 out of his 31 MMA wins have come by submission as well.

When he gets you on the ground, Oliveira’s strength, grip, and fluidity becomes like that of a monstrous python, effortlessly maneuvering his way to secure air-tight choke-holds on his opponents until they tap out. No matter how hard you try to wriggle free or work yourself into a different position, Oliveira finds a way to use your success against you, even when he’s flat on his back.

But an influential component of Oliveira’s grappling success is directly tied to his striking ability. It’s weird to think of it that way. But believe it or not, Oliveira uses his striking hand-in-hand with his grappling, often to stun his opponents before leaping upon them with an inescapable hold around their necks.

Though he cut his title showdown with Michael Chandler awfully close, Oliveira is the lightweight champion for good reason and will look to show the world why that is once again.

Dustin “The Diamond” Poirier:

Entering this championship showdown, Dustin Poirier is actually listed as the favorite, and deservedly so. Over his 11-year tenure in the UFC, Poirier has continued to evolve into a much stronger mixed martial artist and has taken out a handful of the greatest lightweights this division has seen in recent years.

After an 11-fight stint in the featherweight division that ended with a knockout loss to Conor McGregor, Poirier jumped into the lightweight division and never looked back. Since 2017, Poirier took out Anthony Pettis, Justin Gaethje, and Eddie Alvarez before claiming the interim lightweight title in a five-round slugfest with featherweight legend Max Holloway.

Aside from losing to the former undefeated lightweight champion in Khabib Nurmagomedov in 2019, Poirier has won seven of his last eight fights, defeating Dan Hooker in 2020 and McGregor twice this year.

To top it off, Poirier is the best striker in the lightweight division right now. And as he’s refined that skill, it’s only grown in effectiveness and power. With 15 knockout victories to his name, Poirier has become a striking specialist and will look to put that on display come Saturday night.

Winner: Dustin Poirier

This championship clash has everything it needs to be one of the greatest UFC lightweight main events we’ve seen over this past decade. With Oliveira and Poirier in their respective primes, this fight could not only go five rounds but could even come down to a close decision ruling between the three judges.

Though Poirier is the favorite, the one area of concern for him remains to be how he can fare on the ground against Oliveira. As we saw with Nurmagomedov, Poirier had little to show for when he found himself pinned on the mat and his endurance burnt out rather quickly as Khabib continuously burdened him with all of his weight and muscle.

But the fact of the matter is that Poirier does have a black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and has a solid takedown defense of 61% to go along with that. Though he hasn’t won a bout by submission since 2012, Poirier can hold his own on the ground if need be and is very crafty with his counters in the clinch.

In addition, Oliveira is not Khabib and doesn’t possess the same strength as the former undefeated champion. Moreover, Oliveira has never fought four or even five full rounds before, which could really test his resiliency should the showdown push into the championship rounds.

On the other hand, Poirier has fought in two five-round bouts and managed to walk away with unanimous decision wins in each of them. Considering his unique set of experiences, his unmatched striking talent, and the heart and dedication he pours into his craft, expect Poirier to walk out of the octagon on Saturday as the new UFC Lightweight Champion of the world.