UFC Vegas 34: Cannonier vs Gastelum Predictions

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The UFC took a little bit of a break after UFC 265, but they are back in action and return with a nice treat as a Kelvin Gastelum takes on Jared Cannonier. It should be interesting to see how both parties handle the short notice switch as Gastelum steps in for Paulo Costa. The rest of the card leaves a little bit to be desired with a co-main that is simply the co-main, well, because Clay Guida. I don't hate it, but I don't love it either.

But who cares! Predictions!

Jared Cannonier vs Kelvin Gastelum

I think we can all agree that when we lost out on the Cannonier - Costa bloodbath we all shedded a collective single tear. But there's always a silver lining, and now that Costa will be fighting Vettori, and Gastelum stepped in for this one, I feel like we'll see that match up eventually anyways. With that said, I think Gastelum gives Cannonier a little more to worry about regardless of the short notice.

Gastelum is, and has always been a top fighter. The guy is so slick with his boxing and is a straight up dog when it comes to wrestling. However, you can't ignore the lack of success as of late even if it has come to the division's best fighters. Cannonier may have to wait a little bit to unleash his power, but I think if he can stay on the outside and get his timing down he should be able to close the show in violent fashion.

Prediction: Jared Cannonier, 3RD RD TKO

Clay Guida vs Mark O. Madsen

What can you say about Clay Guida that hasn't already been said? The dude is one of those guys from yesteryear that you hate to love watch fight. You love him because he's entertaining as all hell, but hate the fact that he's still fighting. Against Madsen he'll have to deal with an olympic level athlete, but I don't care, I think Guida can use his veteran savvy and frenetic pace to keep Madsen on his heels.

Prediction: Clay Guida, Decision

Clay Sherman vs Parker Porter

I feel like Sherman has already shown his cards. Can he compete with fringe top-15 Heavyweights? Well, loses to Arlovski and Sakai suggest no. However, he did have his moments in the Arlovski fight and when fighting guys like Porter he looks good. I think this is a fight he can control from start to finish, but Porter did show he has the ability to push the pace despite his size.

Prediction: Clay Sherman, Decision

Vinc Pichel vs Austin Hubbard

When you have the stache that Pichel does, there's zero chance I'm betting against you.

Prediction: Vinc Pichel, Decision

Alexandre Pantoja vs Brandon Royval

I think on paper Pantoja does a lot things that would allow him to get by Royval. He's probably more technical in the standup, and may even be a better grappler. However, I love Royval's ability to cause chaos, and with his size anything is possible if he puts himself in the right position. The winner of this catapults themself square into title contention in what is sure to be a fight of the night candidate.

Prediction: Brandon Royval, 2ND RD SUB

Rest of the Card

Jones def Kakharmonov

Saldana def Lingo

Kelleher def Pilarte

Malecki def Nunes

Cherant def Knight

Bahamondes def Roosevelt

Brahimaj def Palatnikov

2021 Predictions Record: 116-76-2