UFC Vegas 66: UFC Apex; Las Vegas
The UFC has now closed the book on the year 2022. It’s been a year that has seen multiple divisions flip. And that brings options moving forward; which is a good thing, and an exciting thing. The options for middleweight Jared Cannonier are decent for him. Not only in matchups, but ideally in his wallet too. After a 49-46 (2x), 49-46 split decision win over the tough as nails Sean Strickland; he himself slightly teased them post-fight with PAUL FELDER.
The back and forth five-round fight was a tactical battle, and not the pier-6 brawl some might have expected. And while Cannonier did do more damage, it was more Strickland’s movement and style that made the fight play out the way it did. As he did have an edge in significant strikes 122-116. His foot movement and solid jab was his key. However, at the end of the day it was the heavy leg kicks from “The Killa Gorilla” and the shots to the body that tilted the fight his way.
Options For Jared Cannonier In 2023
First and foremost this probably won’t be the last time these two fighters meet. So running it back in the first quarter might be a play. As a co-main it would be interesting to see how they both up the pace. But as another main event would not be such a horrible thing either. Especially since the second they both get back into their gyms, corrections will be made. Including getting Cannonier to up his volume significantly.
Cannonier is aware that most of the division is booked up. The rebound win ended his quick one-fight losing streak. So running it back with former champion Israel Adesanya does make the most sense as a title eliminator fight. The only shame there is too bad it probably would not happen on the UFC’s return to PERTH, AUSTRALIA February 11th. Although that’s up to Dana White.
But in fairness, it is tough to say after this performance, he’d have any answers for Adesanya. Outside of running back Strickland, Cannonier should be at the point where he no longer fight’s those below him in the rankings. At least until the time comes there’s a strap around his waist.
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