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As the final UFC card of 2023 unfolds, fight fans are in for a treat with a stacked lineup featuring two thrilling title fights and a showcase of rising talents. Headlining the event at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas are the welterweight championship bout between Leon Edwards and Colby Covington, and the flyweight title rematch pitting Alexandre Pantoja against Brandon Royval.
Welterweight Championship: Leon Edwards vs. Colby Covington
Leon Edwards, the reigning welterweight champion, is set to defend his title against the relentless Colby Covington. Despite criticisms suggesting that Covington's title shot is fueled by name value and marketability rather than recent accomplishments, there's no denying the genuine threat he poses. Edwards, who claimed the title with a stunning knockout over Kamaru Usman, faces a formidable challenge in Covington, making this clash a must-watch for fight enthusiasts.
In a recent interview with UFC.com, Edwards reflected on his decade-long journey to championship glory. The welterweight champion expressed the unique satisfaction of achieving success after years of dedication, especially in an era where instant gratification often takes precedence.
Flyweight Title Rematch: Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval
The flyweight division promises fireworks as Alexandre Pantoja seeks to defend his title against Brandon Royval in a highly anticipated rematch. Pantoja emerged victorious in their initial meeting in August 2021, securing a submission win in the second round.
Since then, Pantoja has further solidified his championship status, while Royval has displayed resilience and determination, earning himself a championship opportunity with three consecutive wins.
Main Card Showdowns: Rising Stars vs. Veterans
The main card of UFC 296 is not short on excitement, featuring rising stars and seasoned veterans facing off in intense matchups:
Shavkat Rakhmonov takes on the experienced Stephen Thompson in the welterweight division.
Paddy Pimblett, known for his brash persona, faces Tony Ferguson, who aims to break a six-fight losing streak in a lightweight battle.
The eclectic mix of matchups promises diverse fighting styles and compelling narratives, making every bout on the main card a potential show-stealer.
Full Fight Card and Odds:
- Leon Edwards (c) -160 vs. Colby Covington +135, welterweight title
- Alexandre Pantoja (c) -175 vs. Brandon Royval +150, flyweight title
- Shavkat Rakhmonov vs. Stephen Thompson, welterweights
- Paddy Pimblett -330 vs. Tony Ferguson +260, lightweights
- Bryce Mitchell -230 vs. Josh Emmett +190, featherweights
- Irene Aldana -200 vs. Karol Rosa +170, women's bantamweights
- Cody Garbrandt -205 vs. Brian Kelleher +170, bantamweights
- Casey O'Neill -190 vs. Ariane Lipski +155, women's flyweights
- Dustin Jacoby -250 vs. Alonzo Menifield +205, light heavyweights
- Tagir Ulanbekov -175 vs. Cody Durden +150, flyweights
- Andre Fili -180 vs. Luca Almeida +155, featherweights
- Martin Buday -150 vs. Shamil Gaziev +125, heavyweights
With the stakes high and the matchups compelling, UFC 296 promises fight fans a fitting conclusion to an action-packed year in the world of mixed martial arts.