Projections for UFC Jacksonville

The pressure mounts on Josh Emmett.

Although this might sound stern considering Emmett’s recent interim title fight, it feels like that could have been his final opportunity if he doesn’t swiftly defeat another contender. He’s presented with this possibility in UFC Jacksonville’s main event, but standing in his path is the undefeated featherweight, Ilia Topuria.

Looking at this matchup, it seems primed to spotlight Topuria — ranked No. 8 in the MMA Hook Global Rankings at 145 pounds — a versatile talent from Georgia who’s yet to reach his full athletic potential, having just turned 26 this year. Featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski is set to defend his title next against Yair Rodriguez, and if he continues his winning streak, there aren’t many challengers ahead of Topuria. A significant victory on Saturday could potentially position him as the default No. 1 contender (assuming Volkanovski doesn’t seek a rematch with lightweight champ Islam Makhachev).

In other main card matchups, dual-division contender Amanda Ribas aims to halt Maycee Barber’s four-fight winning streak in a flyweight bout. Heavyweights Austen Lane and Justin Tafa square off in a match that’s unlikely to extend beyond a few minutes. Featherweight hopefuls David Onama and Gabriel Santos go head-to-head, while top 15 middleweight Brendan Allen takes on the formidable Bruno Silva.

Event: UFC Jacksonville

Location: VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena in Jacksonville, Fla.

Schedule: Saturday, June 24. The seven-bout preliminary card kicks off at 11:30 a.m. ET on ESPN and ESPN+, followed by a six-bout main card at 3 p.m. ET on ABC and ESPN.

Featherweight contenders Josh Emmett and Ilia Topuria face off in a crucial featherweight bout – LIVE HERE – on Saturday.
WATCH LIVE STREAM HERE
Josh Emmett vs. Ilia Topuria

Despite the odds, Josh Emmett is not to be discounted, but Ilia Topuria’s position as the firm favorite indicates more about his anticipated rise rather than any deficits on Emmett’s side. Emmett’s recent 38th birthday, coupled with Topuria being considered the face of the featherweight youth movement, makes the odds daunting for Emmett.

Emmett’s history as the underdog and repeatedly beating the odds could work in his favor. Known for his accurate striking and inherent power, he could be put to the test if Topuria chooses to vary his fight strategy. Topuria’s reputation as more than just a standup fighter might prevent Emmett from unleashing his punching prowess.

I anticipate a mostly standup fight, with the looming threat of a takedown just enough to disrupt Emmett’s momentum. I foresee Topuria using this to his advantage to set up combinations and progressively wear down Emmett.

Topuria by a third-round knockout.

Pick: Topuria

Amanda Ribas vs. Maycee Barber

Maycee Barber’s recent winning streak is a positive indicator of progress. Initially, Barber faced criticism for declaring her ambition to become the youngest champion in UFC history. Although that ambition has elapsed, it doesn’t rule her out as a contender. Arguably, the reduced pressure might be beneficial.

Conversely, Amanda Ribas projects an easygoing image but transforms into a formidable adversary when it’s game time. Noted for her submission skills and improved striking, she’s a force to be reckoned with.

Barber’s strikes display power and intent. As she increases the force behind her punches, knockouts seem inevitable.

Given Ribas’s questionable striking defense, if she can’t implement her grappling offense, Barber’s chances of causing damage and securing a victory in the second or third round

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