5 Reasons to Watch UFC 179
The UFC hasn't been on in weeks. That is one reason why you should watch UFC 179 this weekend.
The card, which features a featherweight main event between Jose Aldo and Chad Mendes, hosts a number of young talents and established fighters. The main event in particular is interesting, as it's a rematch from UFC 142.
Other than the fact the UFC hasn't been on recently, you may need some more reasons to watch the card. Here are five reasons you should tune in Saturday night.
Shot at Redemption
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UFC 142 saw Chad Mendes and Jose Aldo square off for the first time. In a memorable image that will stay in many people's minds, Aldo flattened Mendes and proceeded with one of the most legendary celebrations in MMA history. He jumped the cage, ran into the crowd and celebrated with his countryman.
It is a loss that has likely been eating away at Mendes. However, he came back with a vengeance and is ready for another shot at gold.
Mendes seemingly has the tool set to upend Aldo. He is strong, athletic, has good wrestling and can end a fight with one punch.
Will that translate come Saturday night? Can Mendes gain redemption in the form of a UFC championship?
We will find out soon enough.
The Bounceback
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For Glover Teixeira and Phil Davis, there is a tale of two very different individuals.
For Teixeira, he is looking to bounce back from his first loss in the UFC, albeit a title fight with Jon Jones. Previous to that, he was 5-0 in the UFC with four finishes.
For Davis, he is looking to evolve as a fighter, as the mostly wrestling-based fighter has failed to break through against men who can defend the takedown. He has faltered against Anthony Johnson and Rashad Evans and took a questionable decision where he looked lackluster against Lyoto Machida.
Both men are looking to get back in the win column. This could be a vital fight for the career progression of both men.
UFC's Unappreicated Fight Machine
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Fabio Maldonado should get more respect than he does. He always steps up on late notice at whatever weight class he is needed and always comes to fight.
That type of fight style and work ethic has earned the light heavyweight slugger a spot on the pay-per-view. This may not be the most appealing thing to fans, but we must remember Maldonado is a guy who is constantly in entertaining bouts that are in the running for Fight of the Night.
He takes on Hans Stringer, whose style should match up with Maldonado's favorably. Keep your eye on this fight for entertainment value.
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Lightweight Division's Under-the-Radar Prospect
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The lightweight division is a very deep division. Anybody in the top 30 can beat anybody else at any time.
Now, Carlos Diego Ferreira may not be a top-30 fighter at this point, but he is quickly getting there with his impressive performances and awe-inspiring finishes. We have seen that in two bouts in the UFC, where he tapped out Colton Smith and blistered Ramsey Nijem with strikes.
He is the type of guy who has a good chance to succeed in the UFC. He is improving quickly on the feet and has a high-level jiu-jitsu game that will give opponents fits.
He has Beneil Dariush in the pay-per-view opener and can open some more eyes with an impressive performance. Here's to thinking Ferreira has a bright future.
Talent of the Future on the Undercard
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Whether you are a fan of UFC 179 or not due to its so-called "lack of star power," you have to love the fact the UFC is constantly bringing in top prospects in order to look for future world champions.
UFC 179 has some very good up-and-comers.
Andre Fili, Gilbert Burns, Christos Giagos and Carlos Diego Ferreira are just four of these talents of the future that will grace the card. All are extremely skilled, have finishing ability and have participated in exciting fights.
They will give you a glimpse into the future Saturday, while likely putting on a helluva show.
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