The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) is making its much-anticipated return to Canada this week as Fight Night 246 lands in Edmonton, a city that hasn’t hosted an event in over five years. Fans can expect an exciting lineup featuring some of the best fighters in the flyweight division, complemented by a diverse undercard. This article aims to delve into the two featured fights, providing insights on the competitors and how to catch the action live.
At the heart of UFC Fight Night 246 is the thrilling flyweight showdown between former champion Brandon Moreno and unbeaten contender Amir Albazi. Moreno holds a record of 21 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, and he comes into this contest facing unusual adversity—back-to-back losses for the first time in six years. His resilience has made him a fan favorite, and his previous victories against top-tier fighters like Deiveson Figueiredo and Jussier Formiga highlight his talent.
On the other hand, Albazi represents a formidable challenge. With an impressive 17-1 record, he has remained undefeated in the UFC thus far, boasting victories over respected opponents such as Kai Kara-France. However, it’s significant to note that he has been sidelined since his split decision triumph over Kara-France in June 2023, raising questions about his readiness. Nevertheless, both fighters bring unique skill sets to the cage, making it a clash of experience against youth—a highly anticipated matchup for both fighters and fans alike.
Interestingly, the co-main event showcases another riveting bout, this time in the women’s flyweight division, featuring Erin Blanchfield against the former champion Rose Namajunas. Blanchfield’s record stands at 12-2, and she has rapidly established herself as a top contender, showcasing an impressive fighting style characterized by grappling and striking finesse. Notably, her recent loss to Manon Fiorot might have derailed her title ambitions momentarily, but Blanchfield has proven her tenacity and skill, making her a relentless competitor.
Rose Namajunas, with a well-documented history of high-stakes bouts, comes into this fight looking to continue her resurgence after recovering from previous setbacks. After a title loss to Carla Esparza, Namajunas garnered consecutive victories this year, which complements her illustrious career featuring victories over the likes of Zhang Weili and Jessica Andrade. This fight serves as a pivotal moment for both athletes—Blanchfield seeks to secure her title shot aspirations, while Namajunas aims to solidify her place in the division after a challenging period.
Heavyweight Showdown: Jhonata Diniz vs. Derrick Lewis
Another exciting fight to look out for is the heavyweight clash between the rising star Jhonata Diniz and veteran fighter Derrick Lewis. Diniz, undefeated at 8-0, brings a reputation for knockout power, having made waves since his debut through Dana White’s Contender Series. His shooting star trajectory in the UFC has captivated audiences, and he possesses the advantage of being relatively new to the promotion—often leading to unpredictable outcomes.
In contrast, Lewis is a seasoned competitor who boasts an extensive career filled with high-profile bouts. Despite facing challenges in recent years, including a string of mixed results, Lewis is a dangerous opponent known for his knockout ability. His ability to absorb damage and retaliate makes him a perennial threat in the heavyweight division. This fight is merely another chapter in his storied career, where he hopes to make a significant statement against the talented Diniz.
For avid fans keen to catch these explosive matchups, UFC Fight Night 246 will be broadcast live starting at 8 p.m. ET (5 p.m. PT) on ESPN+. Preliminary fights are scheduled to kick off earlier at 5 p.m. ET, offering viewers a packed lineup of exciting bouts featuring both established fighters and newcomers. It’s always best to stay updated with any changes in schedule or broadcasting info as the event day approaches.
In a nutshell, UFC Fight Night 246 promises an action-packed evening filled with high-stakes excitement, showcasing fighters eager to solidify their legacies and climb the ranks. As fans anticipate these thrilling matchups, it is a reminder of the dynamic nature of mixed martial arts where every bout can reshape the landscape of the sport.