5 Reasons UFC 303 Could Be a Classic Even Without Conor McGregor

UFC 303 was all set to be the biggest event of 2024. The highly anticipated fight between Conor McGregor and Michael Chandler was the main attraction.

However, with McGregor pulling out, questions arose about the event’s worth. Despite this setback, UFC 303 still promises to be a memorable night.

Here are five reasons why it could still be a classic:

1. Two of the UFC’s Top Prospects Are Competing on the Preliminary Card

Firstly, bantamweight Payton Talbott is set to face Yanis Ghemmouri. Talbott, only 25 years old, is undefeated with an 8-0 record and his striking style is often compared to that of current bantamweight champ Sean O’Malley.

He’s definitely a fighter to keep an eye on. At the top of the prelim card, middleweight Joe Pyfer will face Marc-Andre Barriault. Although Pyfer lost in his first headline fight, his skills and charisma are undeniable.

If both Talbott and Pyfer perform at their best, they could easily steal the show. Watching these promising fighters is very exciting and may even influence some UFC betting picks.

2. The Fight Between Ian Machado Garry and Michael Page

Ian Machado Garry and Michael Page’s bout is set to be thrilling. Garry has been unbeatable since his UFC debut in 2021, winning seven straight. His technical striking is smooth and precise, and even hard-hitting opponents like Geoff Neal and Neil Magny cannot crack his style.

Meanwhile, Michael Page brings a wealth of experience from his time at Bellator. He showed his skills in his UFC debut earlier this year by outpointing Kevin Holland, even if it wasn’t as electrifying as fans had hoped.

The clash between Garry’s proven techniques and Page’s unorthodox style makes this fight one to watch. Whoever wins could soon be eyeing a title shot at 170 pounds.

3. Roman Dolidze Steps in for Carlos Ulberg to Fight Anthony Smith

After Carlos Ulberg was pulled from the card, Roman Dolidze is set to fight Anthony Smith in his place. Dolidze, usually a middleweight, is moving up to light heavyweight on short notice. He has a massive opportunity despite being on a two-fight losing streak.

His last two losses were decisions to Nassourdine Imavov and Marvin Vettori. If he beats Smith, it could revitalize his career in a new weight class. Smith is now facing a different type of challenge.

Originally set to fight the up-and-coming Ulberg, Smith now has to prepare for Dolidze. This matchup is still crucial for Smith, who must adjust quickly to the change in opponent. The fight has the potential to be a turning point for both fighters’ careers.

4. Brian Ortega vs. Diego Lopes Could Determine the Next Top Contender in the Featherweight Division.

Brian Ortega, also known as ‘T-City,’ is a familiar name in the featherweight division. He’s challenged for the title twice and is widely recognized as one of the best submission grapplers around. Ortega has defeated top fighters like Frankie Edgar, Chan Sung Jung, and Renato Moicano. Recently, he submitted former interim champion Yair Rodriguez, showing his skills are still sharp.

On the other hand, Diego Lopes made a big entrance last year by nearly defeating the much-respected Movsar Evloev. Since then, Lopes has won three consecutive fights, with his latest victory coming from a knockout against Sodiq Yusuff. This showdown between Ortega and Lopes promises to be intense, with both fighters known for their resilience. The winner could very well be looking at a future title shot. This fight could easily become the highlight of UFC 303.

5. Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka Could Be an Amazing Headliner

After Conor McGregor’s withdrawal from UFC 303, fans worried the event would lose its appeal. However, the new headliner featuring light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira and former titleholder Jiri Prochazka is a scintillating matchup.

Their first fight ended in controversy, with Prochazka hurting Pereira before Pereira’s comeback led to a disputed finish. The rematch promises to settle any questions about their previous encounter. Both fighters have won their matches since then, adding more excitement to this bout.

While it’s not McGregor vs. Chandler, Pereira vs. Prochazka has the potential to be a memorable fight. If it delivers as expected, it might elevate UFC 303 to classic status.

The Takeaway

Even without Conor McGregor, UFC 303 has all the elements of a classic event. From rising stars like Payton Talbott and Joe Pyfer to exciting matchups like Ian Machado Garry vs. Michael Page, the night is packed with talent and promise.

Top fighters like Carlos Ulberg and Brian Ortega bring high stakes, while the headliner Alex Pereira vs. Jiri Prochazka promises to be unforgettable.

These elements combined ensure that UFC 303 will be an event to remember, solidifying its place in UFC history. Don’t miss this epic night of fights!

Header Image: Sportskeeda