Take a look at UFC predictions for UFC Paris on September 3.
The MMA world leader returns after a week and makes their debut at the home of democracy. This card features Ciryl Gane (the nation’s most significant export in MMA) as he takes on Tai Tuivasa, a matchup that has significant implications for the top heavyweight.
Co-main event: Former middleweight king Robert Whittaker takes on Marvin Vettori, a challenger to the division title.
It also features the return of Octagon veterans Joaquin Buckley and Nassourdine Imavov. Let’s take a look and predict the winners of four essential bouts on this card from Neds.
UFC predictions: UFC Paris fighters will get W’s on Sept. 3
Ciryl Gane (10-1) vs. Tai Tuivasa (14-3)
Gane vs. Tuivasa will clash between two top-five UFC heavyweight ranking competitors. This matchup also showcases the youth movement at the top of the division. This matchup is unique because it features two highly skilled strikers who have achieved great success in different ways.
This booking will ask if Tuivasa can use his brawling style effectively enough to avoid surgically dismantled and resuscitated by “Bon Gamin.” Many have tried, but none have succeeded. Tuivasa will be joining that group.
Robert Whittaker (23-6) vs. Marvin Vettori (18-5-1)
Robert Whittaker is in a difficult spot. After two losses to the current division king Israel Adesanya, Whittaker is an elite fighter of 185 pounds. He will not be able to win another title in the next few years. He still hopes Adesanya will fall from grace, but he is fighting the best in the division.
Whittaker will be facing Vettori in a grappling match that will test his skills and will be a tough challenge for “Bobby Knuckles.” But Whittaker is a well-rounded fighter and will be ready for any challenge the Italians may throw him.
Joaquin Buckley (15-4) vs. Nassourdine Iavov (11-3).
Imavov will be able to receive loud applause from his fellow countrymen and women at fight night. After a solid 3-1 start in his UFC career, Imavov is now the favorite sentimentally. Buckley will not be able to win. As he tries to win a decision, Buckley will likely use a full MMA attack to counter his opponent’s explosive strikes and keep him off balance.
Charles Jourdain (13-5-1) vs. Nathaniel Wood (18-5)
Charles Jourdain against Nathaniel Wood is an excellent fight that most people will overlook. These two 20-somethings have won finishes in well over 75% of their wins, and they are both solid prospects at featherweight.
It is now a question of who is better. Jourdain is currently coming off a loss but still managed a strong performance in a majority loss to Shane Burgos. Wood won a crucial victory over Charles Rosa in July in the United Kingdom. Although it’s a pick-em match, Jourdain appears to have become a more formidable prospect in the past two years.