UFC London: Detailed Analysis of the Main Fights
The world of mixed martial arts is preparing for an unmissable event. The UFC returns to the United Kingdom with an explosive card, headlined by a featherweight duel that promises strong emotions. On March 21st, the O2 Arena in London will be the epicenter of the action, with fights that could define the future of several contenders. After three years without a main card led by Leon Edwards, the London event arrives with a series of exciting matchups and fighters with the potential to steal the show. Here, at Alofoke Deportes, we present a detailed analysis of each fight.
Melissa Mullins vs. Luana Carolina
The night begins with a matchup between Melissa Mullins and Luana Carolina. Mullins, with an impressive record in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, will seek to prove her worth at home, while Carolina, known as “dread”, arrives with a history of first-round finishes.Why she could steal the show: Mullins, nicknamed “No Mess”, is a double gold medalist at the World Championship of the International Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Federation, a high-profile tournament, so watch out for her submissions.
Shanelle Dyer vs. Ravena Oliveira
London debutante Shanelle Dyer will face Ravena Oliveira. Oliveira will seek her first UFC victory, while Dyer will try to start her career in the organization on the right foot.Why it could steal the show: The first two matches of the night will be England against Brazil, so someone will have to settle scores in this fight.
Shem Rock vs. Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady
Shem Rock, trained at the Next Generation MMA gym in Liverpool, will seek his first victory in the UFC. His opponent, Abdul-Kareem Al-Selwady, known as “Pride of Palestine”, is also looking to make his way in the organization.
Why he could steal the show: Could we see another Liverpool star born? Liverpool is a hotbed of UFC talent and Rock will want to add his name to the list.
Mario Pinto vs. Felipe Franco
Mario Pinto, currently ranked number 15 in the heavyweight division, might be better known for his post-fight monologues than for his feats in the octagon. He will face debutant Felipe Franco.Why he could steal the show: The heavyweight division is open for a new contender. Can Pinto make a statement?Kondratavicius vs. Antonio Trocoli
Antonio Trocoli, with three losses in the UFC, could be fighting for his future in the organization. Kondratavicius, for his part, seeks to shine against an opponent who is considered the favorite.Why it could steal the show: A big favorite against a fighter who has nothing to lose, hasn’t Hollywood followed this path before?Louie Sutherland vs. Brando Peričić
Another heavyweight fight on the card. Louie Sutherland from Great Britain received the call from the UFC while working the night shift on a railroad. He will face Brando Peričić.Why it could steal the show: Surely there’s an early finish. Three of Sutherland’s last four fights haven’t gone past the second round.Nathaniel Wood vs. Losene Keita
Nathaniel Wood, after a dispute with Lerone Murphy, will face the debutant Losene Keita. Keita, known as “Black Panther”, arrives with an impressive record.
Why he could steal the show: Wood hasn’t recorded a finish in the UFC since 2019, so what better place for the London-born fighter to break that record?
Mason Jones vs. Axel Sola
Welshman Mason Jones returns to London to face the undefeated Axel Sola. Jones seeks redemption after his previous stint in the UFC.Why he could steal the show: Mason Jones is back in London with a point to prove, knowing this could be his last chance.
Kurtis Campbell vs. Danny Silva
Kurtis Campbell, arrives undefeated and with high expectations, will face Danny Silva.Why he could steal the show: Silva has a strong boxing base and boasts fast hands and a notable stance change. Local fighter Campbell must be careful.Roman Dolidze vs. Christian Leroy Duncan
Roman Dolidze, with a distinguished UFC record, will face Christian Leroy Duncan. A victory could propel Duncan into the top 15 of the middleweight division.Why it could steal the show: A middleweight ranking is at stake for Duncan, in the division where Michael Bisping once reigned.Iwo Baraniewski vs. Austen Lane
Iwo Baraniewski, with a knockout victory in his UFC debut, will face Austen Lane.Why he could steal the show: Baraniewski recorded four takedowns in 30 seconds in his first UFC fight: he offers fireworks.
Michael Page vs. Sam Patterson
Michael “Venom” Page, known for his entertaining style, will face Sam Patterson.
Why it could steal the show: This is the people’s main event, watch out for that “highlight reel” moment from Page. But, can he protect himself from complacency after admitting he wouldn’t have chosen Patterson as an opponent?
Co-Main Event – Luke Riley vs Michael Aswell Jr.
Luke Riley, with a knockout victory in his UFC debut, will star in the co-main event. He will face Michael Aswell Jr.
Why he could steal the show: Luke Riley is another export from Liverpool who is eager to reach the world stage but, like Pimblett before him, needs a moment that grabs the attention of the mainstream to do so.
Main Event – Movsar Evloev vs. Lerone Murphy
The main event of the night will be a featherweight bout between Movsar Evloev and Lerone Murphy. Murphy will seek to solidify his path towards a title opportunity.
Why it could steal the show: It’s the main event! Why aren’t you watching? It’s also an opportunity for Murphy to defend himself against a wrestler and suggest that he is capable of snatching the championship from Volkanovski.
