3 fights to look forward to and 2 that will likely disappoint at UFC 266

Fight that will likely disappoint at UFC 266: Nick Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler

UFC 266: Nick Diaz vs. Robbie Lawler [Photo credit: @nickdiaz209 on IG]

A rematch that's 17 years in the making will take place on the main card of UFC 266. After spending several years away from the octagon, Nick Diaz will return against a familiar foe in former welterweight champ Robbie Lawler.

Most UFC fans, especially those who are 30 years old and above, look forward to this matchup more than they do the title fights. It isn't surprising as Diaz and Lawler are two legends of the sport, and we all know that nostalgia is one hell of a drug.

Unfortunately, there's a glaring issue in what should be a blockbuster matchup. Diaz and Lawler have been several years removed from their primes. But what makes the matchup palatable is that these combatants are at the same point in their respective careers. This isn't the classic UFC matchmaking style in which they use an out-of-shape legend to build up a young up-and-comer.

That said, though, we can't expect Diaz vs. Lawler 2 to resemble their first fight at UFC 47. It's unfortunate that the two welterweight stars did not cross paths during their primes, and for that reason, this fight might disappoint.

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Fight to look forward to at UFC 266: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Brian Ortega

UFC 266: Alexander Volkanovski vs. Brian Ortega [Photo via @briantcity on IG]

After spending a few weeks competing as opposing coaches during The Ultimate Fighter season 29, featherweight champ Alexander Volkanovski and Brian Ortega will finally come to blows.

A championship matchup between the two was originally slated for the co-main event of UFC 260. Unfortunately, Volkanovski contracted COVID-19 several days ahead of the title bout. But instead of rebooking the fight for the very next pay-per-view, the 145-pound stars agreed to put their meeting on hold so they could participate in TUF 29.

The UFC 266 main event clash is especially rewarding to those who religiously watched the show. An argument could be made that the bad blood between Volkanovski and Ortega was fabricated for the sake of the show. Nonetheless, this fight could serve as a payoff for fans who tuned in every week.

TUF 29 aside, Volkanovski vs. Ortega is an intriguing matchup in itself. 'T-City' has shown significant signs of improvement in his last fight and it will be interesting to see if he can maintain the same quality of performance at championship level.