Nolan King: Calvin Kattar vs. Jeremy Stephens
Unquestionably, Tony Ferguson vs. Justin Gaethje casts a major “violence potential” shadow over the entire UFC 249 card.
If it was on any other card, however, [autotag]Calvin Kattar[/autotag] vs. [autotag]Jeremy Stephens[/autotag] would be the “Fight of the Night” lock. Two of the most exciting fighters on the roster, seemingly neither man is capable of putting on a boring fight.
Not to mention, this isn’t a preliminary card matchup between two exciting UFC newcomers. This high-level fight has a lot on the line for both men. Despite a losing effort vs. Zabit Magomedsharipov in November, Kattar’s stock seemingly grew from the fight. With a win over Stephens, he’ll potentially elevate himself into a top-five matchup.
As for one of the longest-tenured fighters on the promotion’s roster, Stephens needs a win now more than ever. While time and time again he’s proven he belongs at the top the division, Stephens hasn’t picked up a win in over two years. His last victory came against Josh Emmett in February 2018. This fight is pivotal for him.
On a card oozing with fun, meaningful fights, Kattar vs. Stephens is flying grossly under the radar. When the two finally meet May 9, the UFC audience is in for a real treat.
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Next page – Danny Segura: Vicente Luque vs. Niko Price