In a rapidly expanding sport like MMA, there’s always a ton of announcements from the world’s largest promotion, the UFC. At times, it’s difficult to keep up. So for those of you who’ve been busy at summer’s end, we’ve got your back with a few important stories you may have missed.
CHAMP VS. CHAMP: DILLASHAW VS. CRUZ BOOKED
Dominick Cruz never lost the bantamweight belt – the former champ had his title stripped because of prolonged stints on the sideline due to various injuries. During his time away, T.J. Dillashaw has emerged as the new champion, and he appears to be leading the 135-pound pack by a comfortable distance. What’s more, he’s doing it in a style that many say emulates Cruz’. So what will happen when these two hyperactive bantamweights square off?
There doesn’t appear to be anyone else that can really challenge Dillashaw, making this a compelling fight between the current champion and the lineal titleholder. The pair is scheduled to meet at UFC Fight Night 81 in Boston on January 17, 2016.
THE RETURN OF ANTHONY PETTIS
Also booked for UFC Fight Night 81 is former lightweight champion Anthony Pettis, who looked poised for a dominant reign as the lightweight champion before he was shockingly upset but Rafael dos Anjos. “Showtime” will return to face all-action fighter Eddie Alvarez, who’s coming off a huge win over Gilbert at UFC 188. Between Pettis’ flashy striking style and Alvarez’ penchant for brawling, this one should be an all-out war. Even better, it could easily be seen as a title eliminator between two top-7 guys.
UFC SIGNS AN OLYMPIC HEAVYWEIGHT PROSPECT
Any time the UFC signs an Olympian wrestler, with no prior MMA experience, ears perk up. Dagestani native Bilyal Makhov, a 2016 Olympic hopeful and 2012 Olympic bronze medalist, was recently signed to a contract with the UFC despite the fact that he’s never stepped inside a cage on the pro or amateur level. But the guy is 6’5”, 285 pounds and a three-time freestyle wrestling national champion.
Keep in mind that current light heavyweight champion Daniel Cormier was an Olympian in 2004 and 2008, though he never medaled. Many believe that wrestling is the most important fighting base for MMA, which makes Makhov a tantalizing prospect – especially in a division that is in desperate need of new faces.
THE BEST FIGHT YOU DON’T KNOW ABOUT
There is a growing sentiment that Khabib Nurmagomedov is a lightweight champion in waiting. He just hasn’t stayed healthy enough to earn his shot at the title. But now that he appears to be healed up, the UFC has booked him to fight the hottest fighter in the division, the dangerous Tony Ferguson. “El Cucuy” will enter the bout on a six-fight win streak, and could cement a title bid with a win over Nurmagomedov.
The two are scheduled to meet at The Ultimate Fighter 22 Finale on December 11 in Las Vegas. And the best part is the fact that they’re not even the headliner. The main event features two of the top four featherweights in the world, Frankie Edgar and Chad Mendes. That’s just an awesome free card.
BET ON UFC FIGHTS NOW
Sign into BookMaker and bet on UFC fights now! BookMaker Sportsbook guarantees the latest odds, money lines, totals, prop bets and more for you to bet on all your favorite fighters. With nearly 45 total events scheduled for 2015, you’ll never be short of options in the UFC odds.
And with BookMaker’s quick and easy payout options, you’re winnings are always close at hand. Access live betting lines from your mobile device at BookMaker sportsbook! You can wager on sporting events as they unfold on television with BookMaker’s live betting platform. Real-time spreads, totals, props and money line are all available by clicking here so start betting with BookMaker today!
