UFC Showdown: Jones Takes on Miocic - anticipated fight predictions
Beyond the Octagon In one of the most highly-anticipated matchups, Jon Jones takes on Stipe Miocic in the main event of UFC 309 at the hallowed Madison Square Garden. It's more than a title fight; it's a battle between two legends who've left their mark on the UFC heavyweight division. Quintin van Jaarsveld delivers the lowdown.
The co-headliner of the night sees a mouthwatering rematch between Charles Oliveira and Michael Chandler. This clash of skilled finishers promises to be an electrifying affair and sets the stage for other exciting battles on the card.
Here's a sneak peek at what UFC 309 has in store for you:
MAIN CARD (Sunday, 5 AM SA time):
Jon Jones (1.16) v Stipe Miocic (5.55) (Heavyweight Championship)
Jon Jones and Stipe Miocic go head-to-head in a dream match-up of titans. Originally scheduled for November 2023, an injury to Jones delayed the epic showdown until now. These two icons of the UFC, considered the greatest MMA fighter and the best heavyweight ever respectively, are set to leave it all inside the Octagon in their quest for the heavyweight championship.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jones has shown why he's regarded as the best. With an unbeaten record, he's captured the heavyweight title and holds numerous UFC records. Miocic, a former two-time heavyweight champion and a complete, powerful striker, presents a formidable challenge but might struggle against Jones' unmatched skill, intelligence, and almost impenetrable defense.
Prediction: Jones by submission.
Best Bet: Jones by submission at 3.00.
Alternative Bet: Jones by KO/TKO/DQ at 2.20.
Charles Oliveira (1.40) v Michael Chandler (3.05) (Lightweight)
Oliveira and Chandler rekindle their rivalry in an action-packed co-headliner. The pair first met in a thrilling championship bout three years ago, with Oliveira clinching the crown via knockout. With both fighters eager for redemption, this highly anticipated rematch is set to deliver an electrifying performance.
As two of the most lethal finishers in the lightweight division, neither fighter can be taken lightly. With 20 career finishes (including 16 submissions) to his name, Oliveira boasts numerous UFC records. Chandler, known for his heavy hands and high-level wrestling, is one of the most explosive fighters in the world.
Prediction: Oliveira by stoppage.
Best Bet: Oliveira by KO/TKO/Submission/DQ at 1.50.
Alternative Bet: Oliveira by KO/TKO/DQ by 3.15.
Bo Nickal (1.09) v Paul Craig (8.00) (Middleweight)
In one of the featured bouts, undefeated wrestling prodigy Bo Nickal takes on submission specialist Paul Craig. With an unprecedented wrestling pedigree and a perfect 6-0 record, Nickal has blasted through his opponents without a scratch. Craig presents a stylistic challenge but might find himself solidifying his position in the UFC rankings with an upset win.
Prediction: Nickal by submission.
Best Bet: Nickal by submission at 2.80.
Alternative Bet: Nickal by KO/TKO/DQ at 1.68.
Viviane Araujo (3.15) v Karine Silva (1.37) (Flyweight)
The flyweight top 15 features a Brazilian battle between veterans and prospects. Araujo, a former top 10 contender, seeks to reignite her career, while Silva aims to continue her rise up the rankings. This classic clash of experience and youth promises strategic battles and heart-pounding action.
Prediction: Silva by decision.
Best Bet: Silva by decision at 2.00.
Mauricio Ruffy (1.12) v James Llontop (6.50) (Lightweight)
The main card opener shows off an action-packed bout between knockout artists. Ruffy, a member of the Fighting Nerds team, has made his UFC debut in style with five consecutive victories. Llontop finds himself in a dangerous matchup and will likely struggle to survive against Ruffy's unpredictable power.
Prediction: Ruffy by knockout.
Best Bet: Ruffy by KO/TKO/DQ at 1.68.
Alternative Bet: Under 1.5 rounds at 2.35.
Stay tuned to Sportify for the latest updates, previews, and analysis leading up to and following UFC 309.
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—Quintin van Jaarsveld (@QuintinJvJ) is a former MDDA-Sanlam SA Local Sports Journalist of the Year and a former three-time Vodacom KwaZulu-Natal Sports Journalist of the Year. He is a former sports editor and Outstanding Journalist of the Year award winner at The Fever Media Group, deputy editor at eHowzit, editor at SARugby.com, and senior staff writer at Rugby365.com, boasting over 15 years of experience.
- In the world of MMA, reclaimed Octagon space will witness a middleweight bout between Bo Nickal, known for his precision wrestling skills, and Paul Craig, a submission specialist.
- For sports enthusiasts seeking an adrenaline rush, the scheduled UFC 309 card includes a middleweight fight between Bo Nickal and Paul Craig, which could potentially end in a nail-biting, reclaimed victory for Nickal by submission.
- As you delve into the world of MMA sports betting, consider the possibilities of Bo Nickal's potential submission victory in his fight against Paul Craig, a bet that promises precision and a reclaimed title in the middleweight division.
- As the UFC 309 event draws near, fans anticipate not only the jaw-dropping main event but also the reclaimed spotlight on Bo Nickal as he faces off against Paul Craig in a middleweight battle that's sure to deliver a stoppage of some kind.
