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Demetrious Johnson VS John Moraga
UFC flyweight champion Demetrious Johnson (17-2-1), known as ‘mighty mouse’, has shown signs that he could be at the top of the explosive division for a long time to come.
The 125lb dynamo is extremely well-rounded and possesses unrivalled speed that has seen off the likes of Joseph Benavidez and former Ultimate Fighter victor John Dodson, and he will need to bring that same intensity to the Key Arena in Seattle, Washington on July 27.
His upcoming challenger could follow in the footsteps of newly-crowned middleweight champion Chris Weidman, if he’s able to shock the world with an unexpected victory. While John Moraga’s (14-1) name isn’t as established as his opponent’s yet, he’s a dangerous fighter who has performed exceptionally well in his last few fights, including stoppage victories over Chris Cariaso and Ulysses Gomez.
Training alongside UFC lightweight champion Benson Henderson, Moraga is aware that his high-level wrestling and crushing power could be enough to seriously test Johnson and deliver another upset inside the octagon.
Rory MacDonald VS Jake Ellenberger
Rory MacDonald will have the chance to silence critics who question his top 5 ranking in the UFC’s highly competitive welterweight division, when he meets veteran Jake Ellenberger.
MacDonald, who has honed his skills in Montreal at Tristar Gym, has developed his game alongside welterweight ruler George’s St-Pierre, and has already climbed high up the organisation’s rankings at the age of 24.
Ellenberger is looking to halt the rising star, and finally close in on a title shot for himself. He definitely holds the advantage in experience, and knows how to unleash the power in his hands, as he recently showed in his first round knockout of Tristar member Nate Marquardt in March.
Robbie Lawler VS Bobby Voelker
‘Ruthless’ Robbie Lawler (20-9-1) made a quick impact in his return to the UFC, dominating former title contender Josh Koscheck, and finishing him with a first-round knockout.
He’s a true veteran of the sport, with 30 fights to his name. He’s got decent wrestling, and the power wielded in his hands ranks among the hardest hitters at 170lbs.
Bobby Voelker, (24-9), who will meet Lawler in the octagon on Saturday, has serious durability and the will to come back after absorbing significant damage. His encounter with Lawler presents a huge opportunity to leap up the division and become a well-known name in the UFC.
Liz Carmouche VS Jessica Andrade
One half of the first female fight in UFC history, Liz Carmouche (11-3) makes her return to the octagon against Jessica Andrade (9-2) in the first ever UFC fight between two openly gay female fighters.
‘Girl-Rilla’ came up short against women’s bantamweight champion Ronda Rousey in February, despite coming the closest anyone has to finishing her. When she searched for a rear naked choke attempt and cranked on the neck of the champion, fans were on the edge of their seats, but Rousey managed to escape the submission attempt, and finished the bout with her own trademark arm-bar submission.
21-year-old Andrade has fought 11 times since 2011, and has only lost twice. Her ability to finish fights could potentially make her an instant fan favourite, but she will face her toughest opponent to date when she encounters the experienced Carmouche.
Main card
John Dodson VS John Moraga
Rory MacDonald VS Jake Ellenberger
Robbie Lawler VS Bobby Voelker
Liz Carmouche VS Jessica Andrade
Undercard
Michael Chiesa VS Jorge Masvidal
Danny Castillo VS Tim Means
Mac Danzig VS Melvin Guillard
Yves Edwards VS Daron Cruickshank
Ed Herman VS Trevor Smith
Julie Kedzie VS Germaine de Randamie
Preliminary card (Facebook)
Aaron Riley VS Justin Salas
John Albert VS Yaotzin Meza
