The UFC continues to deliver exciting events, with a packed schedule of fights every weekend until April 13. This Saturday, February 15, the action returns to the Las Vegas Apex for a thrilling Fight Night, featuring several highly anticipated matchups. One of the most eagerly awaited bouts is the clash between Jared Cannonier and Gregory Rodrigues, two formidable middleweight contenders. ‘Robocop’ Rodrigues, unbeaten in his last three fights, will face ‘The Killa Gorilla’ Cannonier, a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience in the octagon.
At 40 years old, Cannonier has a storied career behind him, having begun his UFC journey in 2015 as a heavyweight. After a loss and a win in his first two fights, he realized the need for a change in his physique and discipline, leading him to drop down to the light heavyweight division. Although he faced setbacks, including three losses in five fights, Cannonier continued to adapt, eventually moving down to middleweight in 2018. It was at this weight class that he found his optimal form, becoming one of the few fighters to achieve knockout wins in three different divisions.
To fight for the title, to be against the strings
Cannonier’s success in the middleweight division was marked by three consecutive knockout victories, which propelled him into the title contention conversation. However, his hopes of becoming champion were dashed when he was outstruck by Israel Adesanya, losing by unanimous decision. Despite this setback, Cannonier demonstrated his resilience with back-to-back wins against Sean Strickland and Marvin Vettori. Nevertheless, his plans were derailed by a new generation of fighters, including Nassourdine Imavov and Caio Borralho, who both defeated him.
These losses led to perceptions of Cannonier as a ‘gatekeeper’ of the middleweight division, a label he rejects. As he prepares to face Rodrigues, Cannonier is aware of the Brazilian’s power and his own ability to finish fights with his hands. With a legacy that includes ten knockout wins across three divisions, Cannonier is expected to put on a vintage performance against Rodrigues. The stakes are high, and a loss could potentially mark the end of Cannonier’s UFC career.
I prepare myself day by day to go to war against yet another prospect.
Jared Cannonier, UFC middleweight
This Saturday’s fight will be a crucial test for both fighters, with Rodrigues seeking to capitalize on his momentum and Cannonier looking to prove that he still belongs among the division’s elite. The stage is set for an exciting encounter, with the outcome hanging precariously in the balance. Will ‘The Killa Gorilla’ continue to roar, or will ‘Robocop’ shut him down? Only time will tell.