5 intriguing striker vs. grappler matchups the UFC must consider booking

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#2. Colby Covington vs. Jorge Masvidal

Masvidal holds the record for fastest KO in UFC history

UFC fans have been calling for a fight between these friends-turned-rivals for some time now. Both men have established themselves as elite welterweights but must now rebound having lost to Kamaru Usman a combined four times in the last two years.

Colby Covington's wrestling ability is well-documented and has caused problems for many fighters in the division. He would also likely want to make a statement on the mat in his next fight, given his lack of success wrestling against Kamaru Usman.

Jorge Masvidal has a well-rounded game but his biggest strength is likely his striking. He boasts KO wins over Darren Till, Nate Diaz and, famously, Ben Askren.

There appears to be real animosity between the pair and the timing now appears to be right to finally pull the trigger on this bout. A win for either man would put them right back in the title picture at 170lbs.

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#1. Israel Adesanya vs. Glover Teixeira

Adesanya is considered one of the best strikers in the entire UFC

Israel Adesanya had a storied kickboxing career prior to joining the UFC which has led to him becoming one of the most feared strikers in the company today. Should he beat Robert Whittaker in his upcoming middleweight title fight, he could easily set his sights on winning the light heavyweight title.

Glover Teixeira finally secured light heavyweight gold at UFC 267 thanks, in large part, to his world-class grappling skills. At 42, he may not have too many fights left. Given that he is now in a position to earn pay-per-view points from his bouts, it makes sense he will target the biggest fights possible.

A champion vs. champion bout for the light heavyweight strap would undoubtedly do big numbers for the UFC. It would give Adesanya the chance to become an even bigger star and provide Teixeira with a well-earned pay-day.

The two have history as well. Adesanya was given a crack at the light heavyweight title in March this year over Teixeira. Forcing Teixeira to sit on the bench as Adesanya lost his title bid to Jan Blachowicz.