Hello fight fans,
It was certainly an eventful weekend in the world of mixed martial arts. We saw Ian Machado Garry deliver a strong showing at UFC Kansas City, Anthony Smith potentially wrap up his career, and, arguably the highlight for sheer entertainment, the colossal clash between Eddie Hall and Mariusz Pudzianowski. Let`s dive into some thoughts sparked by these events.
Could UFC Match the Spectacle of Hall vs. Pudzianowski?
The question arises: what potential matchup within the UFC, across any weight class, could possibly offer the same level of sheer, unadulterated fun as the recent bout between Mariusz Pudzianowski and Eddie Hall?
While a simple answer might be “none,” the reality is perhaps only a select few could come close. From the moment Eddie Hall displayed his fighting prowess against multiple opponents, I became a strong advocate for a Hall vs. Pudzianowski encounter. I have a fondness for unique, unconventional fights, and this felt like one of the best in years. Despite its brevity, it arguably lived up to the anticipation; feedback suggests spectators who paid to watch were satisfied. It was a fleeting, wonderfully absurd spectacle, the kind that the sport occasionally needs.
Unfortunately, the UFC`s focus isn`t typically on such `silly nonsense.` The organization navigates the challenging path of presenting itself as a legitimate sport while often making decisions that aren`t based purely on merit when it suits their business. While the UFC doesn`t need to mimic extreme events like Fight Circus, embracing a bit more unpredictability could be beneficial. Since this isn`t the likely direction, it limits truly wild fantasy matchmaking within the promotion. Highly exciting theoretical fights are unlikely to materialize. However, there are still matchups that are both potentially exciting and plausible within the UFC.
Certainly, there are many other exciting fighters and potential matchups I might be overlooking, as the UFC boasts a considerable roster of entertaining competitors. The core idea remains: you wouldn`t want unconventional fights every week, but occasionally scheduling one could turn them into must-see events. Currently, the UFC often lacks this sense of appointment viewing.
Navigating the Chaotic Welterweight Title Picture
Following his performance, does Garry earn a title eliminator? Could Jack Della Maddalena vs. Garry be next, and is Shavkat Rakhmonov the logical next opponent for Belal Muhammad (assuming Belal wins)?
Frankly, the situation in the welterweight title picture is exceptionally murky right now.
Under typical circumstances, Garry, coming off a significant victory, would be positioned just one fight away from a title opportunity. He`s highly ranked, troubled the top contender on short notice, and looks impressive against emerging talents. However, these are not typical times; the division is currently in disarray.
Della Maddalena is arguably only the fifth most deserving contender for a title shot currently, yet he`s facing Belal Muhammad next due to fortunate timing. The outcome of that fight could throw everything into chaos. If JDM is victorious, Islam Makhachev is almost guaranteed the first shot, potentially leaving Shavkat sidelined. Should Belal win, Shavkat could still fall victim to circumstances, as many developments are occurring while he`s inactive. Garry is on the rise and designated as a potential backup, Joaquin Buckley has a significant opportunity against a former champion, and Sean Brady recently delivered a dominant performance against the champion. The list of contenders at 170 pounds is rapidly growing.
My best guess is that Shavkat still holds the inside track for a title shot if Belal defeats JDM. This would likely mean Garry competes in a number one contender`s bout against either Brady or Buckley. However, if the former champion defeats Buckley, all predictions are off. The UFC has a recent history of granting title shots to former champions that aren`t strictly earned based on current divisional standings.
Reflecting on Anthony Smith`s Career Legacy
Some observers wonder: while likable and seemingly a good person, when did Anthony Smith attain the status of a “UFC legend”?
Perhaps this perception solidified around the time he chose not to quit during his fight against Jon Jones, a decision that effectively ended his chance at becoming world champion while arguably bolstering the mythology surrounding Jones.
I have considerable respect for Anthony Smith. He`s a fighter who wasn`t necessarily blessed with exceptional natural talent and faced many early career setbacks. Yet, through sheer determination and willpower, he carved out a respectable UFC career and successfully transitioned into a media role. This is genuinely admirable and inspiring, worthy of commendation. However, the narrative presented during Saturday`s broadcast was notably enthusiastic. If you weren`t a regular MMA follower, you might have believed an all-time great was retiring, which isn`t an accurate portrayal.
We can be objective about Anthony Smith`s level: he was a good fighter, but not a great one, and he significantly benefited from competing in weight classes that weren`t particularly deep during parts of his career. Looking at his record, what stands out as his best win? Victories against fighters well past their prime? Honestly, it`s likely his win against Volkan Oezdemir, which is a solid achievement, but it doesn`t place him among discussions of potential Hall of Famers. Anthony Smith deserves praise for his accomplishments and building a career better than most, but labeling him an all-time legend feels like an overstatement.
That said, I appreciate the UFC doing things like they did for Smith on Saturday. While he isn`t an all-time great (or even truly a one-time great), his longevity earned him recognition, and giving him a sendoff was a fitting gesture for one of the sport`s notable overachievers.
Furthermore, credit is due to Smith himself. His attitude throughout fight week and on fight night was commendable. “Lionheart” was resolute in his decision to retire, went out giving a rising fighter an opportunity, and showed no bitterness or desperation about his departure. Smith was clearly at peace with his decision and approached everything with the right mindset. Very few fighters possess that level of self-awareness, and it was good to see him appear content as he made his final walk to the octagon.
Zhang Mingyang and the Light Heavyweight Landscape
Is Zhang Mingyang genuinely a good fighter, or is his success simply a result of the light heavyweight division being weak? Is it a combination of both? He`s an exciting fighter, but there`s a feeling he might not be exceptionally skilled. Also, the idea of seeing Zhang fight Johnny Walker is compelling, given Walker`s history of memorable knockout losses.
It`s likely a bit of both, but frankly, we don`t have a complete picture yet. The light heavyweight division has often lacked depth, making it relatively easier to reach the top 15 compared to other divisions. What is clear is that Zhang possesses significant punching power and doesn`t seem unintelligent in his approach. Time will ultimately reveal his true skill level.
And yes, I`ve mentioned before that Johnny Walker is one of the most spectacular fighters to watch lose by knockout in the sport. Zhang vs. Walker feels like perfect, high-drama matchmaking.
Comparing Delays: UFC 317 Headliner vs. The Jon Jones Situation
Which is more concerning: the fact that UFC 317 International Fight Week still lacks a headliner, or that the Jon Jones situation continues to drag on?
Neither is ideal, but the Jon Jones situation is significantly worse.
At least with the International Fight Week card, we have a strong indication of who will likely headline. It`s expected to be Islam Makhachev vs. Ilia Topuria, unless Jack Della Maddalena upsets Belal Muhammad, in which case it would likely be Topuria competing for a vacant or interim lightweight belt. So, we should know the outcome relatively soon, depending on the upcoming fight.
Regarding the Jones situation, it is genuinely indefensible, and has been throughout its duration. The proposed fight against Stipe Miocic was questionable from the start; everyone recognized it as such, yet the plan persisted. A champion should defend against the number one contender, and by definition, an interim champion holds that position. By any rational standard, Jon Jones`s heavyweight title reign feels illegitimate, and every day the UFC allows this state of affairs to continue is disrespectful to Tom Aspinall and the fans.
Hopefully, this situation will be resolved soon, either by Jones facing Tom Aspinall or vacating the title, allowing the division to move forward.
