UFC 308: A Closer Look at the Main Card and Key Matchups
The UFC 308 fight card is set to deliver a thrilling night of MMA action on Saturday afternoon at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. This event features a stacked lineup, headlined by a highly anticipated featherweight title clash and a co-main event that pits two of the sport’s most dangerous fighters against each other. Here’s a breakdown of the main card, including the fighters’ strengths, weaknesses, and what to expect from each matchup.
Main Card (ESPN+ PPV, 2 p.m. ET)
Ilia Topuria vs. Max Holloway – Featherweight Title Fight
The main event sees Ilia Topuria defending his UFC featherweight title against former champion Max Holloway. Topuria enters this fight with an unblemished 15-0 career record, having won all seven of his UFC bouts in dominant fashion. Known for his explosive power and high-level grappling, Topuria has finished most of his opponents inside the distance. His ability to combine striking and wrestling makes him a formidable challenge for anyone in the division.
Strengths: Topuria’s main strengths lie in his versatility and finishing ability. He has knockout power in both hands and a strong ground game, with a Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu black belt to back it up. His aggressive style often puts opponents on the back foot.
Weaknesses: The biggest question mark for Topuria is how he will fare against someone with Holloway’s experience and durability. He has not yet faced a fighter of Holloway’s caliber, and his cardio is largely untested in five-round wars.
Max Holloway, on the other hand, is one of the most experienced and durable fighters in the featherweight division. With a record of 26-7, Holloway has gone 4-1 in his last five fights, demonstrating his elite striking and ability to withstand heavy punishment. The former champ is known for his relentless pace, volume striking, and granite chin, making him a tough challenge for any featherweight.
Strengths: Holloway’s greatest asset is his striking volume and accuracy. He lands punches and kicks in bunches, constantly overwhelming his opponents. His durability and cardio allow him to keep up the pressure throughout the fight.
Weaknesses: Holloway’s susceptibility to powerful grapplers could be an issue against Topuria. Though his takedown defense has improved, he has struggled against fighters who can mix up their striking and wrestling effectively.
Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev – Middleweight Bout
In the co-main event, former middleweight champion Robert Whittaker takes on the surging Khamzat Chimaev. Whittaker, a seasoned veteran with a 24-7 record, is known for his striking versatility and well-rounded skill set. He has faced the best in the division and has only lost to current champion Israel Adesanya in recent years.
Strengths: Whittaker excels in striking, particularly with his kicks and counter punches. His ability to blend striking and grappling allows him to adapt his game plan depending on the opponent.
Weaknesses: Whittaker has been vulnerable to fighters who can control the distance and dictate the pace, especially in the later rounds. He has also struggled at times with defending against elite-level grapplers.
Khamzat Chimaev, boasting an undefeated 12-0 record, has rapidly risen through the ranks with a reputation for dominant wrestling and relentless pressure. Chimaev’s aggressive style and grappling prowess have overwhelmed every opponent he has faced in the UFC so far.
Strengths: Chimaev’s grappling and ground control are his biggest assets, allowing him to nullify his opponents’ offense and dictate where the fight takes place. His physical strength and relentless pace make it difficult for fighters to escape his grasp.
Weaknesses: Although Chimaev has shown striking power, his stand-up game is still developing. Against a well-rounded fighter like Whittaker, he may struggle if he cannot secure takedowns or if the fight remains standing for extended periods.
Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige – Featherweight Bout
This matchup features two dynamic featherweights, with Lerone Murphy putting his unbeaten record on the line against UFC veteran Dan Ige. Murphy is known for his explosive striking and quick reflexes, which he uses to evade his opponents’ attacks and land counter strikes.
Strengths: Murphy’s knockout power and athleticism make him a dangerous opponent for any featherweight. His ability to adapt during fights and utilize his reach advantage will be key factors.
Weaknesses: Murphy’s ground game is still a work in progress. If Ige, a competent wrestler, can get the fight to the mat, Murphy could find himself in trouble.
Dan Ige, with a record of 17-6, is a well-rounded fighter known for his durability and solid grappling skills. His experience against top-level competition gives him a significant edge in terms of fight IQ.
Strengths: Ige’s grappling and cardio are his biggest strengths, allowing him to grind down opponents and push the pace over three rounds. His striking is serviceable, but it’s his ability to mix up his attacks that makes him dangerous.
Weaknesses: Ige has struggled with high-level strikers in the past. If he can’t secure a takedown, he may find it difficult to deal with Murphy’s speed and power.
Magomed Ankalaev vs. Aleksandar Rakic – Light Heavyweight Bout
Magomed Ankalaev and Aleksandar Rakic are two of the top contenders in the light heavyweight division, with both fighters looking to make a statement and move closer to a title shot.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Ankalaev’s precise striking and strong defensive wrestling make him a tough matchup for anyone, while Rakic’s size and striking power can cause problems for opponents who can’t handle his reach.
Shara Magomedov vs. Armen Petrosyan – Middleweight Bout
Shara Magomedov and Armen Petrosyan round out the main card in a middleweight contest. Magomedov’s aggressive style and knockout power contrast with Petrosyan’s technical striking approach, making for an intriguing clash of styles.
Prelims (ESPN+, 10 a.m. ET)
The prelims feature intriguing bouts such as Geoff Neal vs. Rafael dos Anjos and Kennedy Nzechukwu vs. Chris Barnett, with several fighters looking to make a name for themselves on the big stage.
What to Expect
UFC 308 promises a mix of high-stakes title fights and compelling matchups across multiple weight classes. With top contenders and rising stars on the card, this event is set to deliver action-packed moments and potentially shake up several divisions. Be sure to catch the action live from Abu Dhabi!