as some of the other women’s divisions in the UFC. But does that mean a new champion can revitalize it? I’m not so sure. The division has had its fair share of turnover at the top, with Amanda Nunes reigning as the dominant champion for years. And while it’s always exciting to see a new face holding the belt, I don’t think it will drastically change the landscape of the division.
That being said, a new champion can certainly bring some fresh matchups and storylines to the division. It can create new rivalries and give other fighters an opportunity to shine. But revitalizing the division as a whole? I’m not convinced. The success of a division relies on the depth and talent of its fighters, not just the champion.
However, I do believe that a new champion can bring some much-needed attention and interest to the division. It can generate buzz and attract new fans who may not have been following the division closely before. And with the right marketing and promotion, a new champion can help elevate the division to new heights.
Ultimately, it will be up to the fighters in the division to capitalize on the momentum created by a new champion. They will need to put on exciting fights and showcase their skills to keep the division relevant and entertaining. So while a new champion can certainly have a positive impact, it’s not a guarantee that it will revitalize the division completely.
4. Who has the most to gain at UFC 297?
Martin: It’s hard not to look at the main event and think that Strickland has the most to gain. He’s already the champion, but if he can successfully defend his title against du Plessis, it will solidify his position as one of the best middleweights in the world. It will prove that his win over Adesanya was no fluke and that he deserves to be mentioned among the elite in the division.
But beyond that, a win over du Plessis could also set up some big fights for Strickland in the future. There are plenty of contenders waiting in the wings at 185 pounds, and a dominant title defense could earn him a shot against some of the top names in the division. It could also open up opportunities for super fights or even a move up to light heavyweight.
On the other hand, du Plessis also has a lot to gain from this fight. As the challenger, a win over Strickland would instantly catapult him into title contention and establish him as a force to be reckoned with in the middleweight division. It would also give him the opportunity to prove that he belongs among the best in the world.
So while both fighters have a lot on the line, I think Strickland has slightly more to gain. As the champion, a successful title defense will solidify his position at the top and open up new opportunities for his career.
5. Predictions for UFC 297
Marrocco: I think Strickland will get the job done. I picked against him against Adesanya, and I was wrong. I picked against him against Darren Till, and I was wrong. I don’t know if I’m ready to say Strickland is the best middleweight in the world, but I’m confident he’s the best middleweight in the cage on Saturday night. I think du Plessis will have his moments, but Strickland will be too much for him over the course of five rounds. I’m not sure if it will be a finish, but I think Strickland will win a clear-cut decision.
Lee: I have to agree with Marrocco on this one. Strickland has been on a tear lately, and I don’t see du Plessis being able to stop his momentum. While du Plessis is a tough and skilled fighter, I think Strickland’s unorthodox style and relentless pressure will be too much for him to handle. I predict that Strickland will win by unanimous decision.
In conclusion, Strickland’s path to becoming the Fighter of the Year again is highly unlikely, but a win at UFC 297 could set him up for another successful year. The main event between Strickland and du Plessis promises to be an exciting and tactical fight, with Strickland having the most to gain. While a new champion at women’s bantamweight may bring some attention to the division, it’s not a guarantee for revitalization. Overall, the predictions for UFC 297 favor Strickland as the winner.