UFC on ESPN 69: Under-the-Radar Matchups to Watch on the Preliminary Card
As reported by Fightersonly.com, the upcoming UFC on ESPN 69 event in Atlanta, Georgia, promises to deliver an exciting night of mixed martial arts action. While the main card has already garnered significant attention, the preliminary card features several intriguing matchups that are worth keeping an eye on.
According to Fightersonly.com, one of the most anticipated preliminary bouts is the light heavyweight clash between Scotland’s Paul Craig (17-9-1 MMA, 9-9-1 UFC) and Brazil’s Rodolfo Bellato (12-2-1 MMA, 1-0-1 UFC). This fight was originally scheduled for last month at the UFC Apex but was postponed due to Bellato’s illness. As noted by Fightersonly.com, Craig is returning to the light heavyweight division after a disappointing stint at middleweight, where he lost three consecutive fights to Brendan Allen, Caio Borralho, and Bo Nickal.
Fightersonly.com reports that Craig’s decision to move back to light heavyweight is significant, given his past success in the division. As quoted in the article, "Bearjew" notably holds a win over current champion Magomed Ankalaev. Meanwhile, Bellato is looking to build on his impressive UFC debut, where he finished Ihor Potieria with a stunning knockout. However, his momentum was halted in February when he fought to a draw against Jimmy Crute. As stated by Fightersonly.com, both fighters are eager to make a statement and reignite their rise up the 205-pound ladder.
In another notable matchup, seasoned veterans Michael Chiesa (18-7 MMA, 13-7 UFC) and Court McGee (22-13 MMA, 11-12 UFC) will face off in a welterweight bout. According to Fightersonly.com, Chiesa has posted a 6-3 record since moving up from lightweight in 2018 and remains a constant submission threat, particularly on the ground. With seven rear-naked choke wins, he trails only Demian Maia (nine) for the most in UFC history. As reported by Fightersonly.com, McGee, a winner of The Ultimate Fighter: Season 11, will look to build on his recent first-round submission win over Tim Means at UFC 307.
Fightersonly.com also highlights the bantamweight matchup between Georgia native Malcolm Wellmaker (9-0 MMA, 1-0 UFC) and Kris Moutinho (14-6 MMA, 0-2 UFC). Wellmaker, nicknamed "The Machine," made an immediate impact in his UFC debut by knocking out Cameron Saaiman in under two minutes, earning himself a $50,000 performance bonus in the process. As noted by Fightersonly.com, Moutinho returns to the promotion after a two-year absence, having rebounded on the regional scene with five straight wins.
As reported by Fightersonly.com, this weekend’s UFC on ESPN 69 event promises to deliver an exciting night of mixed martial arts action, with several under-the-radar matchups on the preliminary card worth keeping an eye on. With a range of intriguing bouts, fans can expect a thrilling evening of fights in Atlanta, Georgia.
The article from Fightersonly.com provided further insights into the careers and fighting styles of the athletes mentioned, giving fans a deeper understanding of what to expect from the upcoming event.
Source: Fightersonly.com
