It's that time of the week again when we hit you with our A.I. predictions for UFC 298. This whole card looks to be a banger from top to bottom with a ton of big names filling out the card. Last week our A.I. managed to go a solid (4-2) missing on Tavares and Fili. Bringing our overall win/loss total to (42-15-1). Now let's get into those A.I. picks.
Main Event: Alexander Volkanovski (c) vs. Ilia Topuria – Featherweight Championship
Analysis: A true stylistic clash: Volkanovski, the relentless master of volume and technique, against the high-octane submission and knockout threat that is Topuria. Volkanovski must establish his range early, avoid brawling, and use his elite cardio to pressure Topuria late. Topuria needs to get inside, make it messy, and look for takedowns or opportunistic submissions.
Prediction: Ultimately, I believe Volkanovski's experience, strategic approach, and ability to weather storms will make the difference. Volkanovski via decision (close and could be controversial).
Co-Main Event: Robert Whittaker vs. Paulo Costa – Middleweight
Analysis: Fireworks are almost guaranteed. With his technical precision and footwork, Whittaker will want to avoid getting caught in Costa's power bombs. Costa aims to close the distance and impose his brute force.
Prediction: In a classic style vs. power match, I believe Whittaker's tactical approach, takedown threats, and gas tank will lead him to frustrate Costa across the rounds. Whittaker via decision.
Merab Dvalishvili vs. Henry Cejudo – Bantamweight
Analysis: This should be fascinating! Dvalishvili's relentless wrestling and cardio against Cejudo's Olympic-level grappling and explosiveness after a long layoff. Cejudo needs to avoid the clinch at all costs and keep the fight in the standup to have the best chance.
Prediction: While acknowledging Cejudo's greatness, ring rust has me concerned. Dvalishvili's relentless grinding style might outwork Cejudo over the rounds. Dvalishvili via decision (possible upset on the cards).
Geoff Neal vs. Ian Garry – Welterweight
Analysis: Neal is a southpaw with dangerous power and a penchant for entertaining stand-up battles. Garry is a rising star with crisp striking, both prefer to stand and trade. Neal holds the experience and raw power edge, while Garry boasts speed and technical precision.
Prediction: This depends on Garry's ability to get the fight to the ground, if it remains a striking affair, I lean toward Neal, his ability to land fight altering counter punches will be decisive. Neal via TKO (round 2)
Anthony Hernandez vs. Roman Kopylov – Middleweight
Analysis: Two aggressive fighters known for finishes. Hernandez boasts strong submissions, and Kopylov has serious knockout power. This could be a wild brawl!
Prediction: It's a close call, but I'm leaning towards Hernandez. If he can avoid Kopylov's early blitz and impose his grappling, he's likely to find a submission. Hernandez via submission (round 2).
UFC 298 takes place on Saturday, February 17th, 2024 in Anaheim, California at the Honda Center. Early prelims will start at 6:30 pm EST, with the main card kicking off at 10 pm EST. All the action can be found at ESPN+.
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