Alexander Volkanovski’s focus is on solidifying his position as one of the most dominant UFC titleholders, leaving behind the disappointment of not becoming a two-division champion. Coming off his first loss in nearly a decade, Volkanovski returns to the Octagon this Saturday at UFC 290 to defend his 145-pound belt against interim champion Yair Rodriguez. While some believe Volkanovski should have won his previous fight against Islam Makhachev, he now has to concentrate on the current contender in line.
In the lighter weight classes, history shows that younger and hungry challengers continuously emerge, posing a potential threat to Volkanovski. At 35 years old, he must face Rodriguez, who seems to possess the perfect combination of talent and experience, as evidenced by his victory over Josh Emmett. Rodriguez might even have what it takes to reach the pinnacle of the division if he can showcase another level of performance.
The co-main event features flyweight champion Brandon Moreno facing his longstanding rival, Alexandre Pantoja. With two previous wins over Moreno, Pantoja has haunted him for a while, including an exhibition bout on The Ultimate Fighter. Moreno recently emerged victorious in a four-fight series against Deiveson Figueiredo, but his encounter with Pantoja could define the next phase of his career.
On the main card, Robert Whittaker takes on Dricus Du Plessis in a middleweight bout that could determine the next title challenger. Jalin Turner faces Dan Hooker in a catchweight bout after Turner missed weight, while middleweight prospect Bo Nickal fights Val Woodburn, a last-minute replacement.
The preliminary card concludes with former welterweight champion Robbie Lawler’s retirement bout against Niko Price.
Event Details:
- Event: UFC 290
- Venue: T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas
- Date: Saturday, July 8
- Schedule: The card starts with a four-fight early prelims portion on ESPN+ and ESPN2 at 6 p.m. ET, followed by the four-fight prelim card on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN+ at 8 p.m. ET. The five-fight main card begins at 10 p.m. ET, exclusively available on ESPN+ pay-per-view.
Don’t miss the action-packed UFC 290 in Las Vegas! Watch the biggest fights live on Saturday night.
(Note: The individual fight predictions have not been altered in this rewrite.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about UFC 290 event
What is UFC 290?
UFC 290 is a highly anticipated mixed martial arts event featuring multiple title defenses, intense rivalries, and promising prospects.
Where will UFC 290 take place?
UFC 290 will be held at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas.
When is UFC 290?
UFC 290 is scheduled for Saturday, July 8.
What are the different portions of the event?
The event consists of a four-fight early prelims portion on ESPN+ and ESPN2, followed by a four-fight prelim card on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN+. The main card, featuring five fights, will be available exclusively on ESPN+ pay-per-view.
Who are the main title defenses at UFC 290?
The main title defenses at UFC 290 include Alexander Volkanovski defending his 145-pound belt against Yair Rodriguez, and Brandon Moreno defending his flyweight belt against Alexandre Pantoja.
Who are the other notable fighters on the card?
Other notable fighters on the card include Robert Whittaker, Dricus Du Plessis, Jalin Turner, Dan Hooker, Bo Nickal, Val Woodburn, Robbie Lawler, and Niko Price.
What are the predicted outcomes for the main fights?
The predictions suggest that Alexander Volkanovski will convincingly win against Yair Rodriguez, Alexandre Pantoja may defeat Brandon Moreno to become the new flyweight champion, and Robert Whittaker is favored to defeat Dricus Du Plessis.
Where can I watch UFC 290?
UFC 290 can be watched live on ESPN+ pay-per-view. The early prelims portion is available on ESPN+ and ESPN2, while the prelim card can be viewed on ABC, ESPN, and ESPN+.
Can I stream UFC 290 online?
Yes, UFC 290 can be streamed online through the official ESPN+ streaming service.
Are there any retirement bouts at UFC 290?
Yes, former welterweight champion Robbie Lawler will have his retirement bout against Niko Price, making it a significant moment for Lawler’s career.
More about UFC 290 event
- UFC Official Website
- T-Mobile Arena
- UFC 290 Event Details
- ESPN+
- UFC Rankings
- Alexander Volkanovski Profile
- Yair Rodriguez Profile
- Brandon Moreno Profile
- Alexandre Pantoja Profile
- Robert Whittaker Profile
- Dricus Du Plessis Profile
- Jalin Turner Profile
- Dan Hooker Profile
- Bo Nickal Profile
- Niko Price Profile
- Robbie Lawler Profile
8 comments
Nickal gonna destroy Woodburn with his wrestling skills. takedowns all day, baby!
i think Moreno gonna finally get his revenge on Pantoja, that rivalry is intense! Flyweight division gonna be on fire!
hooker gonna KO Turner for sure. his striking is insane! expecting fireworks in that matchup.
Whittaker vs Du Plessis gonna be an epic battle. both fighters tough as nails. can’t wait to see who comes out on top!
aww man, ufc290 predictions got me pumped! volkanovski gonna smash rodriguez and keep his title. let’s go!
omg UFC 290 is gonna be LIT! cant wait 4 the fights. t-mobile arena gonna be rocking!
Lawler’s retirement fight gonna be emotional. gonna miss watching him in the octagon. #Respect
UFC 290 gonna be a night to remember. gonna grab my popcorn and watch the action unfold!