Top Five Matchups to Pursue Following UFC Vegas 124

UFC Vegas 124 featured an electrifying heavyweight main event, with notable performances from Tatiana Suarez and a stunning 60-second knockout that signals a shift in the bantamweight division. Johnny Walker has also found his groove at heavyweight.

Fight matchups are on the horizon.

Johnny Walker vs. Loser of Alex Pereira vs. Sergei Pavlovich

Johnny Walker appears to have settled into his new heavyweight division. After knocking out Mick Parkin and finishing Waldo Cortes-Acosta in the third round, he has established the merit for a more prominent matchup.

A clash with the loser of the upcoming bout between Pereira and Pavlovich would present a significant challenge. Pereira, a former two-division champion, and Pavlovich, known for his knockout power, offer contrasting but equally valuable opportunities for Walker.

With a history of unpredictability, Walker is beginning to put together a solid trajectory in his career. A showdown against either fighter would shed light on his true potential following their pending matchup.

Tatiana Suarez vs. Mackenzie Dern

Tatiana Suarez dominated Virna Jandiroba with a masterful wrestling display, further solidifying her reputation as a formidable contender in the strawweight division. With a dwindling pool of challengers, it’s time to consider a fight against Mackenzie Dern.

Dern, also on an impressive run, is widely regarded as one of the most skilled grapplers in her class. This matchup promises a captivating encounter, pitch-perfect for fans keen on grappling artistry with Suarez’s wrestling pitted against Dern’s jiu-jitsu finesse.

Elijah Smith vs. Brady Hiestand

Elijah Smith’s rapid 60-second finish of Davey Grant was nothing short of spectacular and showcased his talent. At just 24 years old, he boasts an eight-fight winning streak, with a record of 4-0 in the UFC, which adds excitement to the bantamweight landscape.

Matching him against Brady Hiestand appears to be a natural next step, as Hiestand has consistently faced tough competition. This fight would serve as a significant test for Smith while protecting him from escalating competition prematurely.

Lucas Fernando vs. Julius Walker

Lucas Fernando secured a solid decision victory over Billy Elekana, marking his second win in the UFC. He demonstrated composure and skill over three rounds, signaling he is ready for a more challenging opponent.

A fight with Julius Walker makes sense as Walker continues to find his footing in the light heavyweight division. Both fighters are eager for a win that would propel them further into contention.

Nina Milosevic vs. Alice Pereira

Nina Milosevic’s recent win over Priscila Cachoeira in the second round marks her second consecutive victory in the UFC, extending her overall winning streak to ten. With her track record, the UFC should consider giving her a more significant challenge.

Matching her with Alice Pereira, another promising young bantamweight, would be illuminating as both fighters seek to demonstrate their readiness for higher stakes. Milosevic’s winning momentum against Pereira’s potential would create an intriguing contest.

One More Thing: Alex vs. Johnny

The impending showdown between Alex Pereira and Johnny Walker remains a highlight worth noting, potentially the most exciting matchup on this list. While Pereira holds the edge as a favorite, Walker’s unpredictable nature could disrupt expectations.

Walker has proven time and again that he can achieve the unexpected, and his ability to capitalize on singular moments makes him a compelling opponent. It’s this characteristic that amplifies the anticipation surrounding their bout.