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Jared Cannonier Looks to Rebound at UFC Fight Night 251
Jared Cannonier is set to headline UFC Fight Night 251 on February 15, 2025, taking on streaking Brazilian finisher Gregory Rodrigues. Coming off back-to-back losses, Cannonier is looking to prove that he still belongs among the elite of the middleweight division. With the fight taking place at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, all eyes will be on "The Killa Gorilla" to see if he can turn things around.
Cannonier’s Journey Through the Divisions
Cannonier’s MMA career has been defined by evolution and adaptation. Originally starting in the heavyweight division, he worked his way down to light heavyweight before eventually finding his home in the middleweight ranks. Despite his early struggles in the UFC, Cannonier’s transition to 185 pounds led to some of the most impressive performances of his career.
With wins over legends like Anderson Silva and top contenders like Jack Hermansson, Cannonier established himself as a true force in the division. However, his path to the title hit roadblocks in losses to Robert Whittaker and Israel Adesanya. More recently, defeats to Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho have raised questions about whether Cannonier can still compete at the highest level.
Can Cannonier Get Back on Track?
After suffering a controversial TKO loss to Imavov in June 2024 and dropping a unanimous decision to Borralho in August, Cannonier is in a must-win situation against Rodrigues. At 40 years old, this fight may determine his future in the middleweight division. Known for his devastating knockout power and well-rounded skill set, Cannonier remains a dangerous opponent for anyone willing to stand and trade.
Gregory Rodrigues, on the other hand, is riding a wave of momentum. The former LFA Middleweight Champion has finished most of his UFC opponents in brutal fashion, and his grappling expertise makes him a formidable challenge for Cannonier. A win for Rodrigues would propel him further into the top tier of the division, while a loss would serve as a defining setback for Cannonier.
A Stacked Card to Watch
While Cannonier vs. Rodrigues serves as the main event, UFC Fight Night 251 features an exciting lineup of fights that fans won’t want to miss. Some of the notable matchups include:
Main Card:
Calvin Kattar vs. Youssef Zalal – Featherweight bout between a proven contender and a rising prospect.
Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Dylan Budka – A crucial fight for Shahbazyan as he looks to regain his footing in the division.
Ismael Bonfim vs. Nazim Sadykhov – Two explosive lightweights looking to make a statement.
Rodolfo Vieira vs. Andre Petroski – A grappling-heavy showdown in the middleweight division.
Connor Matthews vs. Jose Delgado – A battle between two promising up-and-comers.
Prelims:
Angela Hill vs. Ketlen Souza
Jared Gordon vs. Mashrabjon Ruzibaev
Rafael Estevam vs. Jesus Aguilar
Gabriel Bonfim vs. Khaos Williams
Vince Morales vs. Elijah Smith
Don'tale Mayes vs. Valtar Walker
Julia Avila vs. Jacqueline Cavalcanti
Fight Implications and What’s at Stake
For Cannonier, a victory could place him back in the top contender conversation. A loss, however, might signal the beginning of the end for his title aspirations. With the middleweight division constantly evolving, every fight is critical, and Cannonier knows he can’t afford another setback.
On the other hand, Rodrigues has an opportunity to secure the biggest win of his career. A dominant performance could fast-track him toward the top five of the division and set him up for a potential title eliminator later this year.
Final Thoughts
As UFC Fight Night 251 approaches, the anticipation continues to build. Will Cannonier silence the doubters and prove he’s still a top contender? Or will Rodrigues continue his ascent and solidify himself as a true middleweight threat? Tune in on February 15, only on ESPN+, to find out!
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