5 frontrunners for Fight of the Night at UFC 278: Usman vs. Edwards 2

#2. Jose Aldo vs. Merab Dvalishvili

Throughout Jose Aldo's legendary Hall of Fame-worthy career, the Brazilian has showcased a tremendous ability to make strong wrestlers with average striking look like amateurs.

Aldo's renowned takedown defense and sprawling ability will be put to the test at UFC 278, where he is set to square off against the best wrestler in the division, Merab Dvalishvili.

Merab Dvalishvili has already broken multiple takedown records in the UFC. With his relentless pressure, unlimited cardio and ridiculous output, the Georgian phenom is believed by many to be the divisional dark horse. 'The Machine' will be eyeing a shot at gold with a win over a legend like Jose Aldo at UFC 278.

Aldo is arguably the worst matchup for Dvalishvili at 135 pounds. If the former champion manages to stifle his opponent's takedown attempts, he should be able to come away with the win. However, 'The King of Rio' has a ton of wear and tear on him after years of competing at the highest level, and at 35, he is entering the twilight of his career.

Youth could play a major role in this mouth-watering bantamweight matchup. If Dvalishvili's output causes issues for Aldo, this will make for a very fun fight. On the flipside, if Aldo finds his best form, the likelihood of a finish skyrockets drastically.

---

#1. Paulo Costa vs. Luke Rockhold – UFC 278 co-main event

The co-headliner at the upcoming pay-per-view pits two of the most unique characters in MMA today – Paulo Costa and Luke Rockhold – in a high stakes middleweight bout. The stylistic matchup alone promises all-out action, but their contrasting personalities could further supercharge this explosive pairing.

Luke Rockhold (left) vs. Paulo Costa (right) [Image via @MMAUNCENSORED1]

While there are concerns surrounding Luke Rockhold's chin, the former Strikeforce and UFC champion is coming off a three-year hiatus. One look into any of the American's recent interviews and it's evident that he is as motivated as ever to make a title run. Rockhold also appears a tad more humble and grounded, which makes him extremely dangerous.

At the height of his powers, Rockhold was a menace inside the cage. His long-range striking and supreme grappling saw him become a champion in two promotions. Now 37 years old, he will have to fight smart if he is to overcome the marauding pressure of Paulo Costa.

While Rockhold and Costa are somewhat evenly matched on the feet, the former has a clear edge on the mat. However, 'Borrachinha' has solid takedown defense, as was evident in his war with wrestling phenom Yoel Romero, and Rockhold will certainly have his work cut out for him.

Perhaps the biggest x-factor going into this bout is Rockhold's headspace. He clearly fancies his chances against middleweight kingpin Israel Adesanya, and as such, expect a disciplined and measured approach from the former champion when he enters the octagon against the ever-durable Costa.