Does UFC 280 have the potential to be the most stacked card this year?
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The mixed martial arts community has been thrown into an uproar over the last couple of days. Last Saturday, we received news about a contractual agreement between Charles Oliviera and Islam Makachev to fight for the lightweight title in one of the most anticipated fights in recent years.
Charles has become a fan favorite for his stylistic approach to recent opponents, finishing the likes of Chandler by way of TKO and Poirier and Gaethje by ways of submission. On top of that he displays grit that makes it impossible to root against.
Islam is a force of nature in his own right. He boasts some of the best striking defense in the division with a pedigree of grappling and wrestling to match. Islam was set to face Beneil Dairush, however the latter pulled out due to an injury.
That alone would be enough to set up the card for success. However, when you add another title bout with an exciting fighter like TJ Dillashaw and an always-game champion like Aljamain Sterling? You’re bound to have a great time.
Dillashaw has always been a go-getter in the sport. Explosive, with decent wrestling and power, and a competitive attitude. His wins over Cody Garbrandt earned him a second grasp at gold. However, after a loss to Cejudo and a year long suspension, the former champion faced Cory Sandhagen, where he would be awarded a decision victory.
Aljamain Sterling was seen as a dark horse long before fighting Petr Yan. However, by eliminating the asterisk next to his first win, he had essentially set himself up as a solid challenge to any contenders who feel confident enough to challenge his reign.
The UFC, however, decided this wasn’t enough. So, on top of two great title bouts, we get what is essentially a contender fight between former champion Petr Yan and fan favorite Sean O’Malley in what is expected to be an absolute war.
Petr Yan excited fans during his rush to the title. After an empathic win against Ricky Simon, Faber hoped to find title dreams by doing the same to the young Petr. However, things quickly went awry as he found himself at the end of a knockout loss.
He would then dismantle Jose Aldo in what could only be described as a war of attrition. After losing his title by way of disqualification, Yan would face off against another talented striker in Cory Sandhagen. With a second chance in his grasp, Yan fell short in his attempt. Now seems like the perfect time to work his way back up.
Sean is an outspoken and creative fighter. After suffering his first loss at the hands of Marlon Vera, Sean amassed three straight finishes before his last bout ended in a no contest. Now, Sean has a chance to essentially skip the line and set himself up for a title shot by next year. All he has to do is get past YanC right?
With these three fights, you’d be able to be more than satisfied, right? Add Belal agaisnt Sean Brady, sure. However, with the card still three months away, that gives matchmakers plenty of time to set up more exciting fights for the fan.
Perhaps we’ll hear more about Dustin and Beneil? Or Chandler might find a fight within that timeframe. Jan Blachowicz also has a free slot available to bring fireworks to the table.
There are so many fights with the potential to turn this card into the most stacked this year. Who would you add to the card though?
