UFC Seattle Main Card Preview
After a twelve-year hiatus, UFC Seattle is back with an exciting lineup featuring some notable names. Former two-division champion Henry Cejudo headlines the event, looking to avoid his third consecutive loss as he takes on China’s Song Yadong. Song, a 27-year-old striking dynamo, is also aiming for redemption after a recent loss to Petr Yan.
Originally set as the co-headliner, the retirement of Dominick Cruz has led to a rematch between middleweight contenders Brendan Allen and Anthony Hernandez.
Let’s delve into the UFC Seattle main card and analyze the matchups.
135 pounds: Henry Cejudo vs. Song Yadong
The anticipation for the Cejudo vs. Song fight continues to build as fight night approaches.
Cejudo’s legacy in the sport is a topic of debate. While he achieved great success in a short span, recent losses have put a dent in his reputation. On the other hand, Song Yadong, at 27, brings a wealth of experience and talent to the octagon.
Although Cejudo is favored, Song’s speed and skill make him a formidable opponent. In what promises to be a thrilling contest, Song is predicted to secure the victory with a late finish.
Prediction: Song Yadong
185 pounds: Brendan Allen vs. Anthony Hernandez
The rematch between Allen and Hernandez might fly under the radar for many fans.
Hernandez has been on an impressive streak, establishing himself as a legitimate contender. Allen, meanwhile, suffered a setback in his last fight. Expect a grappling battle with Hernandez edging out Allen in this rematch.
Prediction: Anthony Hernandez
135 pounds: Rob Font vs. Jean Matsumoto
Font faces Matsumoto on short notice, presenting a challenging matchup for the undefeated Matsumoto.
Font’s experience and boxing prowess give him the upper hand in this fight. Matsumoto, though talented, is likely to face a tough reality check against Font.
Prediction: Rob Font
145 pounds: Jean Silva vs. Melsik Baghdasaryan
Silva’s dominance in 2024 makes him a force to be reckoned with.
Baghdasaryan, a promising prospect, faces a daunting task against Silva. While Baghdasaryan may show some early promise, Silva’s relentless aggression is expected to secure him the win.
Prediction: Jean Silva
205 pounds: Alonzo Menifield vs. Julius Walker
Menifield’s journey to UFC Seattle is marked by twists and turns.
Walker, a newcomer, faces an uphill battle against the seasoned Menifield. Expect Menifield to capitalize on his experience and secure a victory over the rookie Walker.
Prediction: Alonzo Menifield
Preliminary Notes
The prelims feature high-intensity matchups, with Ion Cutelaba and Ibo Aslan headlining the action.
Ricky Simón faces a tough challenge, while the Basharat brothers are set to deliver an electrifying bout. Expect these fights to be action-packed from start to finish.
Quick Picks:
Ibo Aslan def. Ion Cutelaba
Melquizael Costa def. Andre Fili
Mansur Abdul-Malik def. Nick Klein
Javid Basharat def. Ricky Simón
Nikolay Veretennikov def. Austin Vanderford
Nursulton Ruziboev def. Eric McConico
Modestas Bukauskas def. Raffael Cerqueira