Potential Opponents for Donald Cerrone If He Beats Conor McGregor at UFC 246

Donald Cerrone has come a long way in his MMA career. He is a veteran of the game, and probably the most durable fighter in UFC. After two back to back losses against Justin Gaethje and Tony Ferguson, he will make a return to 170. He will face the Notorious Conor McGregor this January.

Conor’s return to the octagon is certainly one of the biggest moments of 2020 for MMA. The former dual champion returns to the octagon on Jan. 18 at UFC 246 inside T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas after more than a year. This has led people to doubt his credibilities in a weight division he has only fought twice. However, this isn’t the only reason why Cerrone is seen as a favorite to win the fight. 

Donald Cerrone’s ground game is very underrated and his impeccable kickboxing skills often overshadow his submission skills. So in the situation where Cerrone can execute everything right and emerge victorious after the fight, who should he face next? 

Cerrone can take on Nate Diaz

Nate Diaz looks like the perfect opponent. Both Cerrone and Diaz met inside the octagon at UFC 141. Diaz won the fight via unanimous decision in an incredible display of mixed martial arts.

UFC could be looking at a potential match-up between former title contenders. It makes sense because both Nate and Donald don’t fight for the win/loss record. They come to fight – and they entertain. In the process, they write history for performance bonuses and Fight of the Night awards.

Why does Donald Cerrone vs Nate Diaz make sense?

Nate Diaz and Donald Cerrone have had a history that goes far beyond a verbal spat in the press conference. If Cerrone can beat McGregor, he will make a mark for himself.

For someone like Cerrone, who cannot take the title shot next but can pull a great fight, Diaz is the best option. The fight, despite being a big no-title fight, will garner a big fight purse and the great atmosphere around it.

Cerrone’s other options

Another interesting opponent for Cerrone is Anthony Pettis. He is making a return to the lightweight division. If Cerrone decides to jump back in the lightweight category, he might be looking at facing Anthony Pettis is the near future.

The winner of Dan Hooker and Paul Felder will also be a highly anticipated option. 

Cerrone can also look to fight Leon Edwards. Both the fighters met at UFC Fight Night 132, where Edwards won via decision. The possibility of this match depends on the winner of the upcoming Tyron Woodley vs Leon Edwards fight.

Only time will tell if Cerrone will beat McGregor, and only then will we know who he will face next.