The new year forces to establish new goals, and we hope that 2017 will be overflowing with brilliant fights, unexpected decisions, and enthralling performances. It is well-known to the dedicated fans that Aldo, Nurmagomedov, and Woodley all hunger for a fight with Conor McGregor. But McGregor’s next opponent will not be the only one surprise of the year.
What About the Last Emperor’s Destiny?
The uncertainty in Fedor Emelianenko’s career ended after signing the contract with Bellator. Presumably, Scott Coker has decided to offer the legendary Russian fighter the favorable contract terms that will allow Emelianenko to finish the remainder of his career with the company; this is expected, considering that Emelianenko will soon be forty-one. His first adversary in Bellator, Matt Mitrione, is a very worthy opponent, and the online betting fans are sure to bet here on him. He is well-rounded and a UFC veteran with an overall record of 9-5 in the promotion. While his UFC stint ended on two consecutive losses, he definitely did not look like a whipping boy. Moreover, Mitrione has started quite well in the Bellator, gaining two stoppage victories. We can only guess what Fedor Emelianenko’s physical and psychological form will be like. Is it possible that he will again abandon any semblance of strategy and only rely on his power? This battle will definitely be a big ratings draw for Bellator.
Will We See Conor McGregor and Jose Aldo Rematch?
Khabib Nurmagomedov is not the only one who is looking forward to meeting with the notorious Irishman. José Aldo skillfully used his reputation and credibility to regain the featherweight title without a fight, while the new interim champion Max Holloway suffered an unexpected injury, postponing the unification bout. In these circumstances, the Brazilian threw out a challenge to ‘The Eagle’. While Nurmagomedov declined the bout, Aldo’s stock was raised in the eyes of the fans as he showed a willingness to fight any opponent, even going up a weight class. Yet, the “thirteen-seconds curse” hangs over the Brazilian, and a rematch with Conor McGregor still remains a major challenge for the legendary featherweight fighter. No doubt, MMA fans are looking forward to seeing Aldo and McGregor meet again in 2017.
Stephen Thompson vs. Tyron Woodley – the Real Destiny
Tyron Woodley’s first defense of the UFC Welterweight title against Stephen Thompson ended in a draw, in a very close fight where a few additional strikes landed or an extra minute of ground control could have swayed the judges’ decision in either direction. While Woodley retained the title, a draw in a championship bout usually calls for an immediate rematch. Woodley does not seem eager to face ‘Wonderboy’ again, and instead expressed a desire for a fight with Georges St-Pierre, Nick Diaz or Conor McGregor. However the Canadian ex-champion still did not make the decision to return to competition, Diaz is waiting for the most lucrative fight option and McGregor has an entire line-up of potential competitors to choose from. It seems that fate itself led to Woodley-Thompson rematch, which has been announced as a headliner for UFC 209. The next battle between these athletes should be as spectacular as the first one.