Caio Borralho wins but who is next?
7-0 in the UFC, Caio Borralho has notched the best win of his career with his win over the former title challenger Jared Cannonier in the main event of UFC Vegas 96 last night. Now, “The Natural” will likely be right on the cusp of a top five ranking. What could be next for the new middleweight contender? Let’s postulate!
Caio Borralho vs. Israel Adesanya?
Israel Adesanya is the best bet for Caio Borralho. After beating Cannonier, Borralho showed that he’s not a jiu jitsu player turned striker. He’s a complete fighter. Borralho proved his point by only shooting one takedown on the night.
If we’re putting Borralho into title contention, why not match him up against a former champion and most recent title challenger? Israel Adesanya is a legend of the sport and giving Borralho that one last step up before he fights for the title would cement his spot as the next contender.
The Whittaker-Chimaev loser
There’s not much promise to a Khamzat Chimaev fight. While immensely talented, he’s constantly pulling out of fights and never makes it to the dance. But he and Robert Whittaker are to fight on October 26th. The winner of that fight, especially if it’s Khamzat Chimaev, will fight for the title. The loser will be on Borralho’s radar.
Chimaev brings that high pressure to Caio Borralho’s black belt Brazilian jiu jitsu pedigree. Whittaker is a former champion, much like Adesanya, and would also provide that step up in competition. This fight puts Borralho just in line for a title shot once middleweight sorts itself out.
Someone coming off of a win: Brendan Allen or Nassourdine Imavov
Heading to France, Brendan Allen and Nassourdine Imavov are facing off in the co-main event in a high stakes fight. But with Whittaker and Chimaev likely facing the champ and Sean Strickland seemingly being promised the next shot, the winner of Allen and Imavov will likely want to fight again.
With Caio Borralho defeating Cannonier, putting him roughly ranked six when the rankings come out Tuesday, he will be a perfect option for whoever wins that fight. This booking would provide a little time in letting the division play out and have Du Plessis get through some of his contenders he already has lined up.
