UFC Fight Night: Felder vs Dos Anjos- Paul Felder vs Rafael Dos Anjos: Prediction and Analysis

The main event for UFC Vegas 14 sees an exciting scrap between lightweights Paul Felder and Rafael Dos Anjos. Islam Makhachev was originally scheduled to face Dos Anjos, but he had to pull out after sustaining undisclosed injuries. ‘The Irish Dragon’ has stepped in on a weeks-notice. Now, he will look to make a massive statement against a veteran fighter.

The lightweight division is chalked with dangerous contenders who are all vying for a shot at the coveted strap. Although both the aforementioned lightweights aren’t in line for a title shot, they need to get back on track. Additionally, the stylistic match-up between Felder and Dos Anjos is another interesting caveat that makes it a ‘Fight of the Night’ contender.

UFC lightweights: Paul Felder vs Rafael Dos Anjos

Felder has gone 2-1 in his last three outings and is coming off a split decision loss to Dan Hooker. Following the fight, he relayed an interest to walk away from the sport to spend more time with his family. However, it seems as though a short-notice booking was just the incentive that the UFC commentator needed to step back into action.

‘The Irish Dragon’ likes to keep the fight standing and trades heavily in the pocket. He’ll have to be wary of the wrestling pressure that ‘RDA’ puts on against the cage against heavy-handed strikers. Fighting in the phone booth comes naturally to Felder, and he has a comprehensive cache of striking weapons.

Rafael dos Anjos is making his return to lightweight for the first time since November 2016. His record in the division stands at 14-7 with 6 finishes, 6 bonuses, and a world championship to boot. What’s more, Dos Anjos takes on all comers regardless of their position in the rankings,

Dos Anjos has a solid skillset once the fight hits the canvas. He’s able to chain together slick upper body submissions from the top control position. Moreover, he’s defensively responsible when it comes to making his entry in the striking department along with having a granite chin. He’s faced issues against high-caliber wrestlers in the past, but his arsenal on the feet should be enough to win the day.

Prediction: Rafael Dos Anjos to claim a unanimous decision victory

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