UFC Charlotte went down yesterday (Saturday, May 13, 2023) as it featured the heavyweight brawl that saw Jailton Almeida dominate Jairzinho Rozenstruik en route to a first round win (WATCH IT HERE). In further action, Ian Jarry continued his rise with an impressive first-round technical knockout (TKO) win over Daniel Rodriguez, while Johnnie Walker earned a unanimous decision win over Anthony Smith.
Winner: Gilton Almeida
Who should he face next: ocean tide
Almeida called for confrontation Against Tuivasa then, who am I to argue? Tuivasa is currently ranked sixth while Almeida will likely sneak into the top 10 after his recent big win. The only reason I don’t like the fight is the fact that Bam Bam is currently on a two losing streak while Almeida has a 14 win streak. However, due to the discrepancy in the arrangement, matchmakers will likely justify matching.
Winner: Johnnie Walker
Who should he face next: Alexander Rakich
One of the things I wanted to see from Walker in this fight was a more measured and controlled attack, rather than a wild man who collapses at every turn. To the surprise of many people, he did just that, putting on one of the best performances of his career while showing off his improving skills. For 15 minutes, Walker hit Smith’s legs and mixed in punches and kicks very well for a quick win. Then for the towering Brazilian, a fight against Rakic makes sense, assuming ‘Rocket’ is ready to make a comeback in the next three or four months. In fact, Rakitic suffered a horrific knee injury during his fight against Jan Blajovic a year ago, and he’s been on the mend ever since. Rakitic is still ranked fourth, and Walker is currently sixth behind him.
Winner: Ian Jarry
Who should he face next: Neil Magney
Now that Gary has taken out one of the top 15 fighters, it only makes sense that he cracked the rankings for the first time. He could very well land the 12th or 13th, so if he wants a fight against Magney, the UFC matchmakers will probably stick around. Magne, unfortunately, gets a heavy loss at the hands of Gilbert Burns at UFC 283, but is still ranked sixth at 170 pounds. Like Garry, Magny also has a win over Rodriguez, and it will be one of the most experienced fights the young rookie will face during his time with the UFC.
winner: Carlos Olberg
Who should he face next: Ion Cotilaba
Ulberg is slowly, but impressively, advancing towards a place in the Top 15 after picking up his fourth consecutive win thanks to his first-round knockout win over Ihor Potieria. Like fighting against Cutelaba because both guys bring the heat. Cutelaba progresses, in your face fighting style, which fits perfectly with the way Ulberg likes things. Cotilaba comes away with a knockout win over Tanner Bowser, after sliding three fights throughout his career.
winner: Alex Morono
Who should he face next: Jeremiah Wells
Morono is back on track after scoring an impressive win over Tim Minnes, helping him improve his record to 5-1 in the last six fights, a run that has gone under the radar. Some more impressive wins and he could knock on the door of the Top 15 for the first time in his career. If he can pass a tough challenge like Wells, it will bring him a little closer. Wales is 4-0 inside the Octagon and coming off a hard-fought, split-decision win over Matthew Simmelsberger.
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