Taylor Dow

## 10. Julianna Peña 

![109_juliana_pena_vs_jessica_rakoczy.0.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/de0acdf6-c172-41a4-241e-3ef499299f00/public "Julianna Peña celebrates her victory on The Ultimate Fighter Finale. Credits to Ester Lin - MMAFighting")

Although now Julianna Peña is the Bantamweight Champion of the world, the way she got her start in the UFC was by winning The Ultimate Fighter Season 18: Team Rousey vs Team Tate, which was the first season to feature female fighters competing for a UFC contract. Miesha Tate would win the coin toss and be the first coach to choose a fighter, where she selected her teammate and friend, Julianna. Julianna would dominate her way through the tournament finishing her first two opponents by submission to secure her spot in the final against six-time Boxing World Champion, Jessica Rakoczy. Julianna would use her pressure wrestling to secure a takedown and finish her opponent using ground and pound with one second remaining in the first round. After going 6-2 in the UFC (her 2 losses coming from future champions) she got her opportunity to face the consensus greatest female fighter of all time, Amanda Nunes, where she would stay true to her word and bring the fight to Amanda, finishing her by submission in the second round. After the biggest upset of the year, a rematch was inevitable and what better way to promote a title fight than coaching on The Ultimate Fighter. 

Julianna Peña and Amanda Nunes are the current coaches of The Ultimate Fighter Season 30: Team Peña vs Team Nunes, airing every Tuesday on EPSN+. 

  

## 9. Efrain Escudero

![341F6D19-1422-0E8C-9A3FECADCD900EB6.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/35e28002-5f71-4c50-3133-639fbd84d300/pub "Efrain Escudero raises his plaque in celebration. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images")

One of the lesser known TUF winners, Escudero was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter Season 8: Team Nogueira vs Team Mir. He finished all his opening bouts by submission to lock himself in the finals, where he fought his teammate, Phillipe Nover. Escudero won a unanimous decision and officially signed with the promotion. Unfortunately, he would go 3-2 in his first stint in the UFC and be cut from the promotion. He made his way back into the UFC and agreed to appear as a coach alongside Kelvin Gastelum for The Ultimate Fighter Latin America 2, as he was a relatively large name among Latino fans. Enrique Barzola would win this season for Team Escudero. 

## 8. Ross Pearson

![013C8E5F-1422-0E8C-9A6032ACCF9FF19F.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/9aef694d-b52e-4535-9342-88ce1de81600/public "Ross Pearson celebrates winning The Ultimate Fighter. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images")

Pearson was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter Season 9: United Kingdom vs. United States, which was the first time the show placed United States fighters against United Kingdom fighters, Pearson won his opening bouts in dominant fashion by submission, TKO and unanimous decision placing him in the final against fellow Brit, Andre Winner. All three judges awarded Pearson the unanimous decision for him to officially sign with the promotion. Pearson became a household name among English fans and the UFC decided to do a similar season, putting Australian fighters against UK fighters, with Ross Pearson and George Sotiropoulos as coaches. This season would be named “The Ultimate Fighter: Smashes” as a play on the 130-year-old cricket rivalry between England and Australia called “The Ashes”. 

  

  

## 7. Roy Nelson

![mma_roynelson_576.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/fc057ab3-13d4-46b8-6b38-326b8bd8ee00/public "Roy Nelson after winning in the finale. Credits to: Dave Mandel-Sherdog")

Nelson is the winner of the widely regarded best season of the show; The Ultimate Fighter Season 10: Heavyweights. This is the season that would see Kimbo Slice under the UFC banner for the first time. In the opening round of the tournament, Nelson was matched up with Slice and finished him by TKO. Nelson would continue his way through the tournament brackets by defeating Justin Wren by majority decision and James McSweeney by TKO to find himself in the final against teammate Brendan Schaub. Nelson finished Schaub by knockout in the finals to earn a UFC contract. He went on to become one of the most well-known knockout artists during his UFC career, with finishes against Stefan Struve, Matt Mitrione, Cheick Kongo, Antônio Rodrigo Nogueira, Bigfoot Silva and Mirko Crocop. The UFC asked him to appear as a coach against Shane Carwin for The Ultimate Fighter Season 16: Team Carwin vs Team Nelson. Sadly, after filming, Carwin would suffer a knee injury and was unable to compete against Nelson in the final, Matt Mitrione stepped up and lost by TKO in the first round. 

  

## 6. Robert Whittaker

![09_whittaker_scott_02.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/2f20ba69-4308-47e4-5182-a33919d84500/pub "Robert Whittaker lands a head kick on Brad Scott in the finale. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images")

Whittaker was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Smashes, and as mentioned before, this season was the first real opportunity for an Australian born fighter to break through on The Ultimate Fighter. Whittaker would finish his first two opponents by TKO in the 1st round to face off against Brad Scott in the finals. Whittaker dominated Scott in the finale, getting the nod from all three judges and securing himself a UFC contract. After a few wins and losses at Welterweight, Whittaker decided to move up to Middleweight to benefit his body and focus solely on training and not cutting weight. This move would be the best choice of Whittaker’s young career as he would go on to make an historic run through the Middleweights and become Undisputed Champion. Kelvin Gastelum, who was in a similar boat, had moved up to Middleweight and gone on a tear through the division, scoring himself a title shot against Whittaker. The two men having won The Ultimate Fighter at Welterweight and moving up to Middleweight to go on their insane KO streaks respectively perfectly set up a season for the two as coaches on The Ultimate Fighter Season 28: Heavy Hitters. 

  

## 5. Kelvin Gastelum

![tuf17finale_11_gastelum_vs_hall_001.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/c463ff9b-2d5a-4b52-9abd-925de1f86f00/pub "Kelvin Gastelum lands a big right hand on Uriah Hall in the finals. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images")

Gastelum was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter Season 17: Team Jones vs Team Sonnen. Kelvin finished his first three opponents and was set to face Uriah Hall in the finals. Hall had scored a viral KO earlier in the season and it seemed as though huge things were coming his way, but Kelvin ended up edging a split decision in the live finale to steal the show and claim his UFC contract. Now, we start to list the only few fighters who have coached two or more times on The Ultimate Fighter, Kelvin being one of them, once on The Ultimate Fighter Latin America 2 alongside Efrain Escudero and once more on The Ultimate Fighter 28: Heavy Hitters with Robert Whittaker as an opposing coach. Kelvin was scheduled to face Whittaker for the Middleweight championship after the season aired, however, Whittaker pulled out of the event a few hours beforehand after he was forced to undergo emergency dual surgery due to an abdominal hernia of the intestine and a twisted and collapsed bowel. The two would eventually meet in the Octagon in 2021, where Whittaker scored a one-sided unanimous decision win. 

  

## 4. Rashad Evans

![20120421_jla_sa2_929.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/bbac74fc-c7db-43f0-9577-de47dedf1e00/public "Rashad Evans wins a unanimous decision over Brad Imes to earn his UFC contract. Credits to: Paul Abell-US PRESSWIRE.")

Rashad Evans was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter Season 2: Team Hughes vs Team Franklin and after the hype the first season attracted, this season had many new people watching. These new fans would witness Rashad defeat Keith Jardine by unanimous decision and score a spot in the finals, as this season was the last of its kind to feature actual professional fights within the tournament bracket, later changing to two round exhibition bouts. Rashad would defeat Brad Imes by split decision and make his way into the UFC. Rashad would move down to Light Heavyweight and quickly climb up the rankings to face fellow Ultimate Fighter winner Forrest Griffin for the UFC Championship where Rashad won by TKO to become the UFC Light Heavyweight Champion. Since then, Rashad has appeared twice as a coach, once on The Ultimate Fighter Season 10: Heavyweights with Quinton Jackson as opposing coach and on The Ultimate Fighter Season 21: American Top Team vs Blackzilians which was the first season of its kind where the two top gyms at the time went head-to-head in The Ultimate Fighter. 


## 3. Matt Serra

![6db8fae9-052514-UFC-Matt-Serra-JT-PI.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/3c2ff2a0-cf03-4289-f363-21d75e5e7900/pub "Matt Serra celebrates his TKO over Georges St-Pierre. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images")

Matt Serra was a winner on The Ultimate Fighter Season 4: The Comeback, which was a change to the usual formula where instead of fighters competing for a UFC contract, it was contracted fighters competing for a UFC title shot. Matt Serra would go on to win his first two fights by submission and unanimous decision and faced Chris Lytle in the finals. After a hard-fought split decision, Serra would get his hand raised and earned the right to challenge Georges St-Pierre for the Welterweight title, where he finished GSP in the 1st round to become the Welterweight Champion of the world. He became a coach only 2 seasons later on The Ultimate Fighter Season 6: Team Hughes vs Team Serra. 

  

## 2. Michael Bisping

![01-bisping-haynes,0.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/0a5ffe44-0673-4f5a-6bde-b6133c81dc00/pub "Michael Bisping defeats Josh Haynes to win The Ultimate Fighter. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images.")

Michael Bisping was the winner of The Ultimate Fighter Season 3: Team Ortiz vs Team Shamrock, and the first non-North American to win a Ultimate Fighter competition. The fans loved the energy and drama that Michael brought to the show, so much so that the promotion decided to create a season based on the USA and UK rivalry and have Michael on board as a coach against bitter rival Dan Henderson on The Ultimate Fighter Season 9: Team United States vs Team United Kingdom. After the huge success of Bisping as a coach and personality on the show, he would be offered a second appearance as a coach on The Ultimate Fighter Season 14: Team Bisping vs Team Miller, originally scheduled to have Chael Sonnen as the opposing coach, Jason Miller offered to step in if Sonnen was unable, very shortly after Dana White confirmed the coaches would be Bisping and Miller. 

  

## 1. Forrest Griffin

![r687414_1296x729_16-9.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/11959ae7-c043-4143-771b-6aad561e6a00/pub "Forrest Griffin and Stephen Bonnar after one of the greatest fights of all-time. Credits to: Zuffa LLC-Getty Images.")


Forrest Griffin was the official winner of the inaugural season; he was given the nod by all three judges even though he had just been toe-to-toe in a very close fight against Stephen Bonnar. Dana White awarded both men contracts as they put on one of the greatest fights of all time. Forrest became a coach on The Ultimate Fighter Season 7: Team Rampage vs Team Forrest which was seen with great success. He then made his second coaching appearance on The Ultimate Fighter Latin America 3 against opposing coach, Chuck Liddell. Forrest has been a guest coach countless times due to his incredible knowledge on fighting and training and with his current role as Vice President of Athlete Development for the UFC.

10 Ultimate Fighter Winners who went on to become TUF Coaches

Jordan Lopez

The UFC is back this weekend and will return to the Apex for UFC Vegas 56 headlined by two top 10 contenders in the Heavyweight division. The card is filled with great fights that are flying under the radar and some exciting prospects. After having a week off, UFC fans will have something to enjoy as the prelims and the main card have tons of action to look forward to. Let's preview all of the fights that are featured on Verdict.

## Alexander Volkov vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik

In a crucial Heavyweight fight, Alexander Volkov and Jairzinho Rozenstruik are looking to bounce back after losing their last fight and get back into the top five conversation. It'll be a quick turnaround for Volkov as he lost to Tom Aspinall via submission in March of this year. Volkov is known for his size and length in the Heavyweight division as he poses a unique challenge for all of his opponents. In terms of his fighting style, Volkov is not your typical Heavyweight fighter. With an average fight time of over 14 minutes, Volkov likes to pick his shots on the outside while being patient. As of now, the Verdict Community is taking the side of Volkov at 57.4% to defeat Rozenstruik. However, it may be closer than what many think. Rozenstruik is coming off a decision loss against Curtis Blaydes back at UFC 266. While having some good moments in that fight, it was the takedown defense that ultimately failed him in the loss. This will not be the case this weekend as the fight will take place on the feet between two strikers. Rozenstruik is known for his kickboxing abilities and his explosive bursts. He has finished 11 of his 12 wins in his career and the most common pick for Rozenstruik to win in the Verdict Community is by knockout at 34%. In a fight that is key for both men, a victory can have one of them knocking on the door for a top-five opponent next to get back into the title picture. 

![volkozroz.png](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/4e637dd0-24a7-4013-a4fa-e95662069800/public)

## Dan Ige vs. Movsar Evloev

The fight that has all the potential to be Fight of the Night on Saturday is Dan Ige going against Movsar Evloev. Ige is looking to get back into the win column as he lost his last fight back at UFC 269 against Josh Emmett via decision. Ige possesses great power, especially in the Featherweight division, and lands at a high volume. His 55% takedown defense will be tested as Evloev is one of the best prospects the UFC has in the Featherweight division. With an average of four takedowns per fight, Evloev provides a non-stop wrestling pace to overwhelm his opponents. While training at American Top Team, he has improved his striking abilities, making it a problem for most of his opponents. The undefeated prospect looks to emerge as a real contender in the Featherweight division with a win over Ige. As of now, 54% of the Verdict Community predicts that Evloev will remain undefeated at UFC Vegas 56.

![igeevolev.png](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/01392a70-712e-4d5a-38a6-ff4f74ee7200/pub)

## Michael Trizano vs. Lucas Almeida

Ultimate Fighter 27 winner, Michael Trizano, is back and will try to get back to his winning ways after dropping one earlier this year back at UFC Vegas 47. Trizano suffered a decision loss against Hakeem Dawodu, but the odds are in his favor as he takes on Lucas Almeida, who is making his UFC debut. Where it stands now, 74.3% of the Verdict Community are predicting Trizano to bounce back and get the victory, but it will not be no easy task. Regardless of Almeida making his UFC debut, he holds a professional record of 13-1 with a 100% finish rate. His only loss came at the Dana White Contender Series but nevertheless, Almeida has the ability to make a name for himself in the Featherweight division and defeat the TUF 27 winner. This will be a very interesting fight. 

![trizanoalmeida.png](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/07a324e0-7a55-4711-74fd-2a20cf861d00/pub)

## Karine Silva vs. Poliana Botelho

Karine Silva is one of the most interesting fighters that will be showcased on Saturday as she makes her UFC debut against Poliana Botelho. Silva just won on the Dana White Contender Series last year in October, earning herself a UFC contract. Silva put on an impressive performance with her BJJ as she nearly won on a gogoplata submission. Instead, she locked in a guillotine choke in the second round. With a professional record of 14-4, Silva has a finish rate of 100% and will try to keep that streak alive when she takes on Botelho. At 75%, the Verdict Community predicts that she will spoil the debut of Silva and earn the victory. Botelho is coming off two straight decision losses and is need of a win. Six of her eight wins are by KO/TKO, but Botelho does have the ability to go the distance and win. The world's most common pick in the Verdict Community is Botelho to win by decision. 

![silvabotelho.png](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/528b3c08-76a0-4074-386d-f0666f912000/pub)

## Alonzo Menifield vs. Askar Mozharov

A Light Heavyweight fight between Alonzo Menifield and Askar Mozharov will take place on Saturday and it has a great chance of it not going to the judges. Menifield makes the walk to the Octagon for the first time this year after losing to William Knight by decision in December. With a 90% finish rate, Menifield looks to get back on track against Mozharov, who is making his UFC debut. Menifield has finished fighters like Paul Craig, Fabio Cherant, and more. On the other side, Mozharov is no stranger to finishing fights as he has a 90% finishing rate as well. With a professional record of 21-8, Mozharov has only seen the judges' scorecards twice, in which he won both times. Where it stands now, 66.1% of the Verdict Community is predicting Menifield to spoil the debut of Mozharov.

![menifieldmozharov.png](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/17165e15-9b42-4cf6-563b-6b844a19b400/pub)

## Felice Herrig vs. Karolina Kowalkiewicz

Felice Herrig and Karolina Kowalkiewicz will face each other once again as both women desperately need a win to get back on track. The two met back at UFC 223 when Kowalkiewicz won via split decision. Since then, Herrig has been on a three-fight skid, with her last win being back in 2017 against Cortney Casey. On the flip side, Kowalkiewicz is on a five-fight skid, losing to the likes of Jessica Andrade, Michelle Waterson, Alexa Grasso, and other top contenders. The last win Kowalkiewicz earned was against Herrig and will try to do the same once again. As of now, over 68% of the Verdict Community are predicting Kowalkiewicz to win the rematch over Herrig as the most common pick is by decision. 

![herrigkk.png](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/86ecbbfe-e3ce-4c1b-5235-e97d799b2600/pub)

UFC Fight Night: Volkov vs. Rozenstruik Main Card Preview

Abdullah Ouazri

A Flyweight fight between Katlyn Chookagian vs Manon Fiorot has been added to UFC Paris, first reported by Boxe Mag.

In their first ever event in France, the UFC has put together a fight between surging Flyweight Manon Fiorot and long-standing veteran Katlyn Chookagian, seemingly for number 1 contendership. 

Chookagian is coming off of a hard earned split decision win over Amanda Ribas earlier this month, defending her first place ranking. The bout saw her unanimously lose the first round and rally to win the second and third.

![6B91A21B-7EDF-4EEB-97F1-39EC3C8CCBF8.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/070bb131-63b3-46ab-6289-6e747135dd00/pub "Chookagian earns a difficult win vs Ribas. Credits to: Jeff Bottari/Zuffa LLC")

Fiorot is riding the waves of her clinical performance against former title challenger Jennifer Maia. After her impressive victory, Manon lobbied for a hometown showdown against the aforementioned Chookagian. 

Answering her call, the UFC has given her just that in what will be her first ever home soil fight within the promotion. Both fighters seem to believe that this fight warrants a title shot, does the Verdict community agree?

Katlyn Chookagian vs Manon Fiorot set for UFC Paris

Featherweight contenders Brian Ortega and Yair Rodriguez are set to meet in the Octagon on July 16th, in Long Island, New York. This news was first reported by ESPN's Carlos Legaspi.

The two have been on each other's radars for years now, and will finally meet in what can only be a called a fight fan's dream matchup. An exciting bout between opposing styles, each bringing the excitement every single time. 

Ortega is coming off of a fight of the year contender in 2021 vs Featherweight champion Alex Volkanivsi. A fight that was largely a monumental showing for the champion. This doesn't mean it was a completely one-sided affair, however. Ortega nearly claimed gold with a guillotine in the 3rd round, almost putting the champion to sleep. The round that ensued was all Volk before T-City put together a brilliant round 5 that can only be explained as pure heart.

![77FC9161-9D9E-4C07-A151-C6E6B31C2D0E.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/cd187ba2-f8b9-4181-c75b-92635b056d00/pub "Ortega nearly submits the champion, Alex Volkanovski. Credits to: Cooper Neill")

Yair Rodriguez was likewise involved in a fight of the year contender, meeting former champion Max Holloway in a war that saw both men leave it all inside the cage. A much closer affair than Volkanovski vs Ortega, Yair had a stock-rising showing against Blessed, earningnhim the respect of the entire MMA community in his first fight following a two year layoff. 


Now the number 2 and 3 Featherweights in the workd face off at UFC Long Island, the victor sure to loom heavy in the upcoming title picture.

Brian Ortega vs Yair Rodriguez official for July 16

The UFC has confirmed an upcoming Light Heavyweight clash between former title challenger Thiago Santos and rising star Jamahal Hill on August 6th at a location to be determined.

Jamahal Hill made a statement in his last performance inside the Octagon when he finished Johnny Walker by 1st round knockout in what was his first UFC main event. Hill looks to carry that momentum to his fight against Thiago Santos.

![2199CB91-5E8F-4BA0-ACE5-3BB993A83033.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/2d88da63-cf47-47a5-2a36-c76195b02200/pub "Jamahal Hill ends Walker with a massive blow. Credits to: Corey Brennan")


Since losing a split decision to Jon Jones in July of 2019, Thiago Santos has lost 3 out of 4 fights, most recently losing a unanimous decision at the hands of Magomed Ankalaev. Santos suffered career altering knee injuries in his fight against Jones and he hasn't looked the same since. 

If Jamahal Hill secures a win against Santos, he'll take a big leap towards a title shot.

Thiago Santos vs Jamahal Hill official for August 6

UFC and Strikeforce legend Nick Diaz has revealed plans to fight Kamaru Usman by the end of 2022. 

>I want to fight for that title. I think I'll beat him, I'd love if they gave me a shot.- Nick Diaz said to TMZ.

This would mark Diaz's first fight since his TKO loss to Robbie Lawler in September of last year, at UFC 266, a fight that followed a near 7 year layoff. Though he lost the fight, Diaz still feels he performed well against Lawler and has what it takes to become the UFC Welterweight Champion.

His desired adversary and Welterweight Champion, Kamaru Usman, is currently sidelined with a hand injury, coming off a unamimous decision win against bitter rival Colby Covington in November of last year at UFC 268. 

UFC President Dana White has previously dismissed Nick Diaz's wish to fight Kamaru Usman. Though it's unlikely that the UFC will book Nick Diaz in a title fight against the #1 pound for pound fighter in the world, this does indicates Diaz's desire to continue fighting.

Nick Diaz wants to fight Kamaru Usman for the UFC Welterweight title at the end of 2022

Douglas Vegas Bets

UFC Vegas 55 was a cruel reminder of one of the more annoying variables to navigate when betting on MMA, judging. We saw three controversial split decisions in Las Vegas this weekend featuring Holly Holm, Santiago Ponzinibbio, and Erky Anders, and I had almost impressively bet on the wrong side of each one. This was a tough week but an important one to learn from as each fight came with different lessons, so let's break them down. 

## Holm -250  Vieira +190

In the Bantamweight main event, I picked Holm to win a decision, and many believe that should have been the result; however, it was not. Whether or not you agree with the result, this was not a spot where I needed to make a bet as I acknowledged her age and layoff, which appeared to play significant factors, yet chose to ignore them. This was a simple mistake that I will not make again going forward. As for each fighter, Holm looked rough compared to what we are used to seeing from her, and she is not the Holly of old this is important to note if she continues to fight, which there has been no indication against. Vieira won this fight by outboxing Holm, which was something to note; however, she spent a large portion of the fight being controlled in the clinch, which was very surprising and nearly cost her the fight. If she is fighting for the title next, I expect her to be a significant underdog whether Julianna Pena or Amanda Nunes holds the belt. 

## Ponzinibbio +100 Pereira -128

This fight was incredible and a truly impressive showing from each fighter, but Pereira, in particular, impressed me as I thought he won the bout showing his evolution has reached a point where he is not an untamed talent but now is ready to compete with the high-level strikers that are ahead at Welterweight. I lost a play on Ponzinibbio here without much regret but probably a spot I could have avoided, in particular, once I saw the size difference between the two, which played an apparent factor in the fight in my eyes. I made that loss back on the fight going the distance which was a bit of a steep price, but I did not see either guy getting finished, and despite some big shots from Pereira, both of them showed their durability, making it through this one. 

## Njokuani -233 Todorovic +175

There was one definitive on this card, and that was this fight as Njokuani unleashed a vicious elbow that ended Dusko Todorovic in the very first round. Njokuani showcased some 
grappling defense in this one as Todorovic unsurprisingly wanted nothing to do with the striking and did well to force grappling exchanges early. We may see Njokuani get a big step up in competition, but he has proven to have an excellent skill set to go along with his freakish knockout power. This guy can make some real noise at Middleweight. 


## Viana +103 Ricci -132

This felt more like watching a combat jiu-jitsu match than an MMA fight, as Viana was very content to work from the bottom, ultimately costing her the fight. We knew that both women were credentialed grapplers and would have some even exchanges, but Ricci proved to have better offensive wrestling, which is essential for BJJ specialists to develop. It was game plan that cost Viana this fight, and knowing that she could not adapt as the fight went on makes her difficult to bet on without the right matchup going forward. 

## Anders +165 Park -217

This fight was a coin flip going to the cards, and I still feel like it should have been the same on the betting line going into the contest, as there was no reason for Park to be that large a favorite. This one is a tough loss as a bettor as I feel I was on the right side of this line, but it counts the same as any other loss. Anders did not look like a sizeable underdog, but he did not look great either, as a lack of speed and cardio was clear, and because of that, I will have a tough time backing Anders again in the future.

## Chase Hooper +143 Felipe Corales -185

I had to mention this fight as Chase Hooper was the performance of the night by far, and he proved me wrong. My mistake on this fight was betting against a very young fighter who had plenty of time off to work on his game and clearly took advantage of every second. Not to mention his mentality seemed much different when in past performances, he had looked hesitant and technical, but Saturday, he was all pressure and aggression. I underestimated Hooper and paid, and I will be paying close attention to his next matchup. 

Looking back at the betting action of UFC Fight Night: Holm vs. Vieira

Collin Quarles

UFC Fight Night 206 went down at the UFC Apex Center in Las Vegas, Nevada Saturday evening. The card was headlined by former UFC Bantamweight Champion Holly Holm and potential future Bantamweight title contender Ketlen Vieira. It was a controversial card for a variety of reasons with several contentious decisions on the main card. 

## Ketlen Vieira Secures Split Decision Victory

![Holly Holm Elbow.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/a89fa7e3-4774-44db-c1ca-eb3dded95e00/pub "Ketlen Vieira lands spinning elbow on Holly Holm. Credits to: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC.")

Ketlen Vieira adds another household name to her resume in the form of Holly Holm. The fight was somewhat lackluster at times due to the clinch control against the fence and distance management of Holly Holm, however Vieira made sure to put stamps on the rounds during key moments of the fight with powerful right hands in the pocket. All of the trademark Holly Holm weapons were on full display Saturday night, however, it never really seemed to affect the Brazilian native. Holly landed several range finders throughout the bout with a variety of low kicks, body kicks, and intercepting sidekicks. She also mixed in a few flurries of punches at times, albeit, with little success in that department. Ketlen was numerically outstruck in the contest 188 to 122, however, it seemed that Ketlen was landing the more damaging shots in rounds two through four.
Despite the Official Scorecards favoring Vieira, The Verdict Community scored four out of the five rounds in favor of Holly. The commentary team also seemed to believe that Holm had done enough to get the judges nod.

## Michel Pereira & Santiago Ponzinibbio Brawl to the Bell

![Michel.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/c0381bca-6ce2-47c2-74ef-95810df24800/public "Michel Pereira Rocks Santiago Ponzinibbio. Credits to: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC.")


It was always going to be this way. "The People's Main Event" delivered and then some when Michel Pereira and Santiago Ponzinibbio duked it out for three all too short rounds in the Welterweight Division. The fight was largely dictated by a pair of weapons in each man's holsters: the Pereira straight right and teep to the gut versus the Ponzinibbio left hook and low calf kick. There were large momentum swings throughout the bout, particularly in the 2nd and 3rd rounds. The Verdict Community for the most part agreed that Pereira won the 1st round by a significant margin, but Ponzinibbio eeked out the 2nd and 3rd rounds. At the end of the battle, Michel Pereira was the one rewarded with a five-fight winning streak by two of the three judges, one of those score-cards being a baffling 30-27.

## Chidi Njokuani Scores Vicious Knockout

![Chidi.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/60203289-6b6f-47a8-5417-ff4c505f0b00/pub "Njokuani Walks Off After Brutal KO. Credits to: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC.")


It didn't take long for Chidi Njokuani to deliver a spectacular display of violence against Dusko Todorovic. After somewhat of a rocky start dictated by a smothering grappling assault at the hands of Todorovic, "Chidi Bang Bang" landed a thunderous right elbow at 4:48 of the first round. 

```twitter
https://twitter.com/danawhite/status/1528169815113756672
```

The sequence was initiated off of a clinch break and landed directly to the side of the head of the unlucky Dusko. This puts Njokuani at a four-fight win streak all via stoppage, three of which being UFC affiliated. The future appears bright for the young talent and he is a welcome addition to the UFC's Middleweight Division.

## Tabatha Ricci Takedowns Cinch the Victory

![Ricci.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/9342acaf-27b8-49fb-837d-1b5856861900/public "Tabatha Ricci Double Legs Polyana Viana. Credits to: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC.")


"Baby Shark" dictated where the fight took place in this Women's Strawweight Bout. Polyana Viana was game on the feet and at times Viana was arguably even the better of the two women in the Octagon. However, Viana was ultimately unable to keep the fight on the feet where she could utilize her striking. Multiple times throughout the bout, Ricci was able to secure a double leg-inside trip hybrid style takedown. Ricci was largely unable to do much with these takedowns as the closed guard of Viana was quite formidable. Every time Ricci looked to pass the guard Viana either threatened with an armbar or used the space to create separation. This stalemate of sorts left long portions of the bout with Ricci standing over a grounded Polyana Viana.
At the end of the contest, Tabatha Ricci scored a judge's sweep of 29-28's. The Verdict Community however scored all three rounds in favor of Ricci.

## Jun Yong Park Wins Controversial Decision

![Eryk.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/58e6015c-7df4-492a-d8b3-80374229e200/public "Jun Yong Park celebrates victory. Credits to: Chris Unger/Zuffa LLC.")


It was a close one when Eryk Anders took on Jun Young Park. The two combatants showcased a clash of styles and strategies in this fight. The Southpaw, "Ya Boi", looked to play the volume game by throwing lots of feints, level changes, and straight lefts. "The Iron Turtle", however, had a completely different approach in looking to be as efficient and accurate as possible with his counter-punching. Not only was this bout a clash of strategies and interesting nicknames, but it was also a clash of knees to the groin as each fighter landed low blows throughout the fifteen-minute bout. In the end, two of the three judges scored the bout 29-28 in favor of Park. The Verdict Community however only gave Park the 3rd round and had Anders taking the Final Score 28.65 to 28.44.




UFC Fight Night: Holm vs. Vieira produces one of the most controversial events in the history of the UFC APEX

Holly Holm makes her return to the Octagon at UFC Vegas 55 as she faces Ketlen Vieira in the main event. This will be the first time we have seen Holm in action since defeating Irene Aldana via decision back in October of 2020. Holm brings that boxing pedigree to every fight and is very crisp on the feet. It is very rare for someone in the women's Bantamweight division to carry that one-punch knockout power but, Holm is one to possess this type of power due to that boxing experience. With the return of Holm at UFC Vegas 55, we take a look at 10 MMA fighters that have competed in a professional boxing match. 

## Anderson Silva 
![Anderson Silva.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/ac404262-9f71-405c-9570-fa5239923700/pub "Anderson Silva after winning his professional boxing debut. Credits to: Manuel Velasquez-Getty Images.")

Many fighters try to transition into professional boxing after their time is done with mixed martial artists. What most of these fighters find out is that the transition between the two is not easy whatsoever, unless your name is Anderson Silva. The former UFC Middleweight champion has adapted into his professional boxing career as smoothly as anyone could imagine. A great number of fans may know that Silva has competed in professional boxing prior to his days with the UFC. He made his boxing debut in 1998 when he suffered his first defeat via corner stoppage. Silva would go on to get revenge seven years later and pick up his first win in the boxing ring via KO while still competing in Pride as well as Cage Rage.

Silva then decided to focus strictly on MMA and become the face of the UFC for over a decade. After becoming one of the dangerous strikers of all-time, his time would came to an end in 2020 when the UFC released him after losing three fights in-a-row. It was apparent that Silva was not fighting like how he was in his prime but he still had some fight in him. This is when he joined the boxing scene again and has never looked better. Silva competed in his first professional boxing match since 2005 when he defeated Julio César Chávez Jr. on June of 2021. He would go on to fight three months later when he brutually knocked out Tito Ortiz inside of one round. Silva has always been must-watch when fighting but the way he has looked in his last two boxing fights is nothing short of impressive as his head movement and counter shots are still effective as ever. 

## Conor McGregor
![Conor Boxing.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/a217048e-8aef-4241-6932-024955afd000/pub "Conor McGregor lands a straight left against Floyd Mayweather. Credits to: Jeff Bottari-Getty Images.")

The face of the fight game has always been Conor McGregor and it only proved furthermore when he faced Floyd Mayweather Jr. in one of the most anticipated boxing matches ever. Known for his timing and punching power, McGregor was on a roll in the UFC and became the first fighter to have held two championship belts in two different divisions in the UFC. After completing this feat, he took his talents into the professional boxing scene for only one bout. The fight with Mayweather generated a ton of traction around the world and deservingly so. McGregor held his own when boxing against one of the best to ever do it. He landed some clean shots in multiple rounds and was having some success. The end result did not go in his favor as Mayweather would get the TKO victory after 10 historic rounds. McGregor didn't agree with referee Robert Byrd stopping the contest but it wouldn't have mattered as all three judges had favored Mayweather in the scorecards. McGregor still has aspirations in boxing professionally again after his time is done with the UFC but for now, he is recovering from his leg injury he suffered back at UFC 264, hoping to return back into the octagon later this year.

## Jorge Masvidal
![Masvidal .jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/4c80b13a-11d6-49d5-b276-5a7da0c42200/pub "Jorge Masvidal lands clean shot against Kamaru Usman in rematch. Credits to: Josh Hedges-Getty Images.")

The debate of who is the best boxer in the UFC is still a hot topic and Jorge Masvidal is always near the top of the list. It is of no surprise that the boxing technique of Masvidal's is special. From growing up a boxing fan to utilizing his boxing skills in street fights when he was younger, Masvidal always had that passion for boxing. The explosiveness and counter shots is what separates him from others in terms of technique. The head movement and Masvidal's one-punch knockout power is the combination that makes him such a fan-favorite. He has even competed in a professional boxing match early on in his career before becoming the superstar he has become with the UFC. Masvidal made his boxing debut back in 2005 in his hometown of Miami, Florida. The contest went all four rounds and Masvidal took the decision win. 

## Valentina Shevchenko
![Valentina Shevchenko.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/db189b97-c8d9-49dd-1965-bb0095719900/pub "Valentina Shevchenko celebrating her knockout win at UFC 266. Credits to: Jeff Bottari-Getty Images.") 

Despite the fact that Valentina Shevchenko is known as one of the most dangerous muay thai fighters in the UFC, regardless of gender, she may have some of the best boxing techniques as well. It's rare for someone in the women's Flyweight division to carry one-punch knockout power. In this case, Shevchenko falls into that unique category. We have all seen the power she holds in the UFC but, it came from boxing professionally early in her career. Shevchenko has a professional boxing record of 2-0, with her most recent victory occurring in 2011. This is when she defeated her opponent via RTD (referee technical decision). Her other win is when Shevchenko picked up a dominating victory in her professional boxing debut, back in 2010. Shevchenko is back in action soon and will be defending her Flyweight belt at UFC 275 against Taila Santos.

## Nick Diaz
![Nick Diaz.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/37c2de21-f5a9-4eff-32e2-c1ddede45e00/pub "Nick Diaz taunts Georges St-Pierre at UFC 158. Credits to: Josh Hedges-Getty Images.")

When talking about mixed martial artists and boxing, Nick Diaz will always be brought up in the conversation. The fan-favorite has some of the most polished boxing fans have seen in MMA. The ability to slip punches and counter effectively the way Diaz had done was something special to watch. He wasn't known for his power but, the volume and pace he fought at was overwhelming for his opponents as Diaz is known for his great conditioning. In the midst of his UFC career, Diaz made his professional boxing debut in 2005. The match was only agreed up to four rounds for it to go to the judges scorecards and Diaz earned the victory via unanimous decision. 

## Clay Collard
![Clay Collard.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/892edfec-4169-494c-6efc-78d2dec71800/pub "Clay Collard landing a jab against Quincy LaVallais. Credits to: Mikey Williams/Top Rank Inc-Getty Images.") 

There is no one that is more active in both mixed martial arts and boxing than Clay Collard. The ability to compete in both at the same time is kind of remarkable. Usually fighters dedicate all their time on one than the other but Collard has managed to do both. Collard started off his career building his way up to the UFC. When he got signed to the promotion, his debut fight was against Max Holloway. After he suffered the defeat in his debut, Collard would go on to get released after going 1-3 in the UFC. This is when he went all-in on boxing. Collard had his professional boxing debut in 2017 when he earned his first boxing win. It was until 2019 when Collard had multiple boxing fights lined up. He had eight boxing matches in that year and managed to put together an three-fight winning streak. As of now, Collard is still boxing professionally as well as fighting in the Professional Fighting League (PFL). He's currently 3-1 in the PFL with wins over former UFC fighters, Anthony Pettis and Jeremey Stephens. As a professional boxer, Collard has a record of 9-6-3. 

## Claressa Shields
![Claressa Shields.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/d827a20b-800b-451a-31b0-90c7a204c800/pub "Claressa Shields with all of her boxing championship belts. Credits to: Mitchell Leff-Getty Images.")

Since signing with the PFL, Claressa Shields has had a target on her back from many people that have criticized her making the move to MMA. She currently sits at 1-1 in her MMA career but, this does not show how great of an athlete she truly is. Known for her incredible boxing, Shields is undefeated as a professional boxer with a record of 12-0. Shields has recorded two knockout wins and ten decision victories that were not even close in the judges scorecards. Shields is the first boxer ever, regardless of gender, to hold all four major world titles. She is virtually unstoppable as her last round she lost (according to the judges) was back in 2019. Much like Collard, she is competing in both the PFL and continuing her dominance in boxing too. Shields just earned a victory over Ema Kozin in February via unanimous decision to make it 12 straight wins in her professional boxing career. 

## Alex Volkanovski
![Alex Volkanovski.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/90137daa-716c-4555-c89c-9dbbd3cb6700/pub "Alex Volkanovski landing a clean shot on The Korean Zombie. Credits to: Jeff Bottari-Getty Images.")

The current Featherweight king, Alexander Volkanovski, has been a winner his whole professional career. He's an outstanding 24-1 in his MMA career while still being undefeated in the UFC. Volkanovski has beaten the likes of Max Holloway (twice), Chan Sung Jung, Brian Ortega, Jose Aldo, and more. The way Volkanovski approaches the fights are so technical. In his most recent one against Jung, he displayed his boxing beautifully. Coincidentally enough, Volkanovski has competed in professional boxing before. While only having one professional boxing match, Volkanovski debuted back in 2015 when he earned his victory via unanimous decision.

## Vitor Belfort
![Vitor Belfort.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/858a53f3-6dff-4092-a8d5-5abc2790d400/pub "Vitor Belfort after his win against Evander Holyfield. Credits to: Tayfun Coskun/Anadolu Agency-Getty Images.") 

Vitor Belfort is one of the greats in the sport of MMA. Many fans know of him just because how he used to win. Belfort wouldn't just cruise himself into a decision win, he would try and finish his opponent. Out of his 26 professional wins, Belfort has 18 knockouts and three submission wins. The same could be said about when Belfort has competed in boxing. In his professional boxing career, he's 1-0 with that victory being back in 2006, which ended in the first round via knockout. Belfort recently had an exhibition boxing match that was hosted by Triller in September of 2021. Belfort defeated Evander Holyfield via TKO, once again in the first round.

## Holly Holm
![Holm Boxing 2.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/47abdc29-4431-45f8-f37f-a87fbe9a2800/pub "Holly Holm with an lead uppercut against her opponent . Credits to: Steve Snowden-Getty Images.")

The name Holly Holm will always be connected with boxing. The way she changed and inspired women's boxing was second to none. Holm recently just got announced as an inductee of the International Boxing Hall of Fame class of 2022. The legacy she holds with boxing is something special. Holm has a professional record of 33-2-3 and debuted back in 2002. Since then, Holm went on to become a three-division world champion and cement her legacy with the great amount of accolades she has. After shifting her focus only on MMA in 2013, it was to no ones surprise that the success transferred over. Holm won her first 10 professional fights in MMA and after winning her seventh, she signed with the UFC. After defeating Raquel Pennington and Marion Reneau, Holm got her chance and knocked out the once undefeated, Ronda Rousey, to become the UFC Bantamweight champion. Holm had shocked the world and now she continues to add to her legacy to MMA. In a recent [article that came out by ESPN Staff Writer, Brett Okamoto](lhttps://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/33939632/i-think-doing-why-holly-holm-dreaming-boxing-first-years), Holm expressed her feelings about getting back into title contention in the Bantamweight division. Holm also mentioned competing in professional boxing for the first time in almost 10 years. If she does go back to boxing, Holm would still want to fight in the UFC and hopefully hold titles in both sports. 

10 Fighters that competed in both Professional Boxing and MMA

Jack MacCool

There are a lot of factors that contribute to the health of an MMA promotion’s weight classes.  The depth of talent, number of fresh contenders, and the weight itself all add to the level of interest from fans in a division’s happenings.  While it sounds obvious, something else that makes a huge impact on a division is the Champion itself.  The Champion of a weight class is integral to drawing eyes to the division while also being involved in fights that excite matchmakers and fans alike.  So as our favourite and least favourite champions go to battle, is the hope that they defend their title for years to come? Or to hand the title over to the next contender longing for their chance to hold the gold?  The difference between long-standing champions versus parity atop a division is stark, so let’s get to the bottom of which is better, or worse for a division.

![Group 21.jpg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/1b2698ef-79f0-41ff-8ef4-1c961facde00/pub "Anderson Silva holds the record for the longest title reign in UFC history at 2,457 days. Credits to: Gabriel Bouys-Getty Images")

One excellent case study to use to decipher this question is the Ultimate Fighting Championship’s (UFC) Light Heavyweight division.  The ‘205ers’ saw Jon Jones rule over the division on and off for nearly a decade before he elected to vacate the title in August of 2020.  By the end of Jones’ title reign there were lots of people who thought the weight class had become stale given that he had cleared out the top contenders of three separate eras without coming close to losing the title in battle (Reyes 48-47 though). When Jones exited the division many believed Light Heavyweight was now the weakest men’s weight class in the UFC as it lacked a clear contender who fans thought would hold the title for a long time. 

Fast forward nearly two years and the division has seen two first-time Champions in Jan Blachowicz and Glover Teixeira hold its title while also becoming fan favourites in the process.  At the same time, the division has seen new contenders make their mark, and may see them challenge for the title very soon. The change from dominant champion to unstable title picture has rejuvenated the Light Heavyweight division and with a title fight taking place at UFC 275 in just a few weeks, the division could be looking at its third new champ in two years–something that seemed impossible a short time ago.

![20151213125907_5D3_5253.jpeg](https://imagedelivery.net/kd_oB-9dZCrENaJzp7HSCA/f8d7743d-2f44-4276-112f-f69d21b67b00/pub "Many expected Luke Rockhold to have a long reign with the Middleweight title, but he was unable to defend his title even once. Credits to: Dave Mandel-Sherdog")

While the lack of a long-reigning champion has strengthened the Light Heavyweight division, the presence of a dominant title holder can have the same impact, but not always.  Two prime examples of this in the sport right now are Kayla Harrison in PFL’s Women’s Lightweight division and Kamaru Usman in the UFC’s Welterweight division.  Both Harrison and Usman draw large numbers of fans to watch them compete in their fights.  Harrison has been massively dominant in PFL, winning the 2019 and 2021 Women’s Lightweight Championships, while holding an undefeated professional record of 13-0.  She has been made the face of PFL and her presence in the promotion is a huge reason why they were able to re-sign with ESPN.  Despite this however, it could be said that because she is so good, fans are reluctant to tune in if they believe they know what the result will be.  Unpredictability of result is one of the biggest reasons MMA is as exciting as it is, so when a champion becomes so far ahead of their competition that audiences believe they know what will happen, it can be detrimental. To see how dominant Harrison has been, here is how the Verdict Community predicted her last three fights.

```twitter
https://twitter.com/VerdictMMA/status/1521253861918355456
```

Like Harrison, Kamaru Usman is the face of his division.  He currently sits atop the pound-for-pound rankings and recorded his 5th consecutive title defence last November in a win over Colby Covington at UFC 268.  When he has been promoted with the appropriate dance partner, Usman has been a draw during his title reign, selling 700,000 pay-per-views in his last two appearances as a headliner and 1.3 million in July of 2020 per: _Tapology Pay Per View Buys_.  Despite his dominance and success, there is an argument to be made that because he has cleared out his weight class, there aren’t as many exciting matchups to be made that are not rematches.  This is one of the cons of a long-reigning defending Champion.  Once they’ve cleared out their division, the interest level in their bouts is susceptible to decreasing if there aren’t any fresh contenders to challenge the Champion.  

Dominant champions or a title on the move each have benefits and detriments that affect their respective weight classes, but it is very difficult to say one is better than the other.  On one hand, a dominant champion can draw more than a transitional champion, but a division where the belt can constantly change hands makes for very dramatic fights with potentially less selling power.  Either way the fans are the ones winning as they get to witness a dominant champion rule over a division, or watch a turbulent title picture make for legendary #AndNew moments.  What does the Verdict Community think? Dominant champs or a title changing hands regularly?
