Matchmaker Monday following UFC Boston
Friday night’s UFC card in Boston showed a lot for the future of several fighters. Dominick Reyes proved he’s a true contender; light heavyweight wasn’t kind to former middleweight champ Chris Weidman, and Yair Rodriguez is indeed a rising star.
Following some great performances at UFC Boston, let’s see what’s next for these fighters on this Matchmaker Monday.
Dominick Reyes, light heavyweight
Result: Defeated Chris Weidman via first-round TKO
Next: Jon Jones
Reyes is definitely worthy for a shot at Jon Jones. There is still a few other big light heavyweight fights coming up that could possibly throw a wrench into Reyes’ plans, however here’s why Reyes should be next. He’s undefeated, he’s big, he’s strong, and he has wins over several quality opponents. Reyes has a win over former title challengers Volkan Oezdemir and Ovince St. Preux, and now he’s added a win over former middleweight champ Chris Weidman. I think because of those reasons Reyes should be next and then let the rest of the division fight it out for the next spot.
Chris Weidman, light heavyweight
Result: Lost to Dominick Reyes via first-round TKO
Next: Retirement
That’s right, I said it. Weidman should hang it up. He was a great champion, but now I think his time is up. He’s 1-5 in his last six fights. Not to mention he’s been knocked out in all his losses. Also, in his only win during this stretch, he was sent flying to the canvas during the fight. I’m sure he wants to continue to give it a go, but if he doesn’t make some kind of adjustment it’s only going to get worse. Going into this fight against Reyes, I thought Weidman was going to win. Now after seeing him lose in 94-seconds, and getting dropped with the first shot he took from a top light heavyweight contender, I don’t know how much longer he can do it.
Yair Rodriguez, featherweight
Result: Defeated Jeremy Stephens via unanimous decision
Next: Winner of Zabit Magomedsharipov/Calvin Kattar on Nov. 9
Rodriguez has the skills to be a future title challenger, or even a champion. Meanwhile, so does Magomedsharipov. Also, let’s not sleep on Katter either. Let’s see the future of the division square off and make a statement. The future for the winner of this fight is bright. In fact, the winner would be in line for a crack at the featherweight belt. The thing with this match up is it has to be five rounds. A five round fight will be highly entertaining and a draw for MMA fans. Therefore, let’s give the fans some entertainment. No doubt, this would be a huge draw the UFC.
