UFC Predictions: UFC 268: Kamaru Usman vs. Colby Covington 2

#3. UFC 268: The Main Card

Justin Gaethje faces Michael Chandler in a major lightweight clash at UFC 268

In UFC 268’s third marquee bout, Justin Gaethje takes on Michael Chandler in a lightweight clash. Both of these fighters are amongst the most exciting in the promotion, and they’re also well within reach of a shot at the lightweight title.

It should be a close one to call, too – both have similar styles in that they’re excellent wrestlers who prefer to strike. However, the big difference may be that Gaethje has less mileage on him and seems more durable than Chandler, who was stopped by Charles Oliveira in his last fight.

Overall, expect a total war, but it should be Gaethje who gets his hand raised – probably by KO.

In the featherweight division, Shane Burgos faces Billy Quarantillo. Burgos is coming off two straight wins, but his size, striking ability and pressuring style still make him one of the more dangerous 145lbers out there.

Quarantillo, on the other hand, is equally aggressive and dangerous. Despite a strong UFC record, he hasn’t fought the calibre of opposition of Burgos nor does he possess the power of ‘The Hurricane’. Expect an exciting fight here, but Burgos should take it via decision or late stoppage.

Finally, Frankie Edgar faces Marlon Vera in a bantamweight clash. A few years ago, this would’ve been an easy pick for Edgar. He likely would’ve used his boxing, wrestling and cardio to simply outwork ‘Chito’ even if a finish wasn’t possible.

Here, though, it’s hard not to worry for ‘The Answer’. He’s won just one of his last four fights, and has suffered bad KOs twice recently too. At the age of 40, and with a career of wars behind him, it’s likely that he’s done at this level – and Vera is more than capable of taking him out. Vera by KO is the pick.

---

#4. UFC 268: The Prelims

Picks in bold

UFC middleweight division: Alex Pereira vs. Andreas Michailidis

UFC lightweight division: Al Iaquinta vs. Bobby Green

UFC middleweight division: Phil Hawes vs. Chris Curtis

UFC middleweight division: Edmen Shahbazyan vs. Nassourdine Imavov

UFC welterweight division: Ian Garry vs. Jordan Williams

UFC heavyweight division: Gian Villante vs. Chris Barnett

UFC flyweight division: CJ Vergara vs. Ode Osbourne

UFC light-heavyweight division: John Allan vs. Dustin Jacoby

UFC featherweight division: Melsik Baghdasaryan vs. Bruno Souza