5 fighters to watch at UFC 277

#2. Anthony Smith - UFC light heavyweight

Anthony Smith has a record of 36-16

Anthony Smith is not be a typical underdog — he is an established star that previously fought for the world title. He's also somewhat of a fan favorite these days, so plenty of his supporters will be tuning in to watch his fight against Magomed Ankalaev on Saturday.

Ankalaev is the heavy favorite heading into this bout, but Smith has stated that he is incredibly confident about the match-up. It has been reported that few other opponents were interested in taking a fight with the Russian; perhaps this means 'Lionheart' has seen something he feels he can exploit.

Ankalaev defeated Thiago Santos in his most recent performance, but he did not do so in particularly convincing fashion. In any case, it will be incredible to see what Smith is able to accomplish with a potential title shot hanging in the balance.

---

#1. Alexandre Pantoja - UFC flyweight

Alexandre Pantoja has a record of 24-5

Alexandre Pantoja has found himself the odd man out in the flyweight division. He is clearly one of the five best fighters in the division, alongside Deiveson Figueiredo, Kai Kara-France, Brandon Moreno and Askar Askarov. On Saturday, he will be facing former title challenger Alex Perez.

Pantoja legitimately had a case to be involved in the interim title bout that is taking place in the co-main event, given he is on a two-fight winning streak and has previously beaten Brandon Moreno. Therefore, he will likely have a point to prove. That chip on his shoulder could potentially launch him into the title picture with a win over Perez.

Pantoja is a fun fighter to watch on any night given the number of ways he is able to finish fights. He has multiple KO, submission, and decision wins during his time in the octagon, so who knows what his approach will be on Saturday when he competes in the biggest fight of his life.