Get ready for an action-packed night of fights as UFC 291 descends upon Salt Lake City, Utah, this Saturday, July 29th, 2023, only on ESPN +. The highly anticipated event is headlined by a thrilling rematch between Lightweight contenders Dustin Poirier (29-7-0)( 1 NC) and Justin Gaethje (24-4-0), who will battle it out for the coveted Baddest Motherf****r (BMF) title in the main event.
Poirier and Gaethje last clashed back in 2018, producing one of the greatest fights in UFC history. Both fighters demonstrated tremendous heart and resilience in their previous encounter, which ended with Poirier securing a fourth-round TKO victory. Now, with the BMF title on the line, fans can expect another epic showdown between these two warriors.
In the co-main event, Jan Blachowicz (29-9-1), the former Light Heavyweight champion, welcomes the explosive Alex Pereira (7-2-0) to the division. Pereira, a highly decorated kickboxer and the former UFC middleweight champion, aims to make a statement in his LHW debut by challenging the Polish powerhouse. Blachowicz, known for his devastating striking and solid grappling skills, will be keen to try to halt Pereira's rise in the division.
But the excitement doesn't stop there. Welterweight standout Stephen "Wonderboy" Thompson (17-6-1) squares off against the dynamic Michel Pereira (28-11-0)(2 NC) in what promises to be a thrilling clash. Thompson's impeccable striking prowess and unorthodox style will be tested against Pereira's flashy techniques and unpredictable offense.
Former interim Lightweight champion Tony Ferguson (26-8-0) returns to the Octagon to face off against the always-dangerous Bobby Green (29-14-1)(1 NC). Ferguson, known for his unyielding pressure and relentless pace, looks to bounce back from recent setbacks and regain his momentum in the division. However, Green, a seasoned veteran, won't make it easy, as he possesses slick boxing skills and a knack for surprising opponents with his crafty submissions.
Welterweight contender Michael Chiesa (18-6-0) aims to continue his ascent up the rankings as he takes on the resilient Kevin Holland (24-9-0)(1 NC). Chiesa, a grappling specialist with an ever-improving striking game, seeks to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with in the division. Holland, known for his dynamic striking and unpredictable ground game, will undoubtedly provide a tough challenge for Chiesa.
The undercard is stacked with both rising prospects and experienced fighters. Gabriel Bonfim and Trevin Giles clash in a high-stakes Welterweight bout, while Heavyweight powerhouse Derrick Lewis goes toe-to-toe with Marcos Rogerio de Lima. Roman Kopylov and Claudio Ribeiro look to make their mark in the Middleweight division, while Jake Matthews takes on Darrius Flowers in a Welterweight showdown.
In the Flyweight division, CJ Vergara locks horns with Vinicius Salvador, while Matthew Smelsberger faces Uros Medic. Lastly, Miranda Maverick and Priscila Cachoeira collide in an intense Flyweight contest.
UFC 291 promises to be a night filled with non-stop action, memorable knockouts, and breathtaking submissions. Salt Lake City, brace yourself for a fantastic MMA spectacle that will leave fans on the edge of their seats. Don't miss this incredible event that will undoubtedly go down in UFC history.
Prelims kick off on ESPN + at 6:30 PM EST, and the main card PPV starts at 10 PM EST, also on ESPN +.
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