In the Clinch: Ortega vs. Rodriguez Title Shot on the Line , UFC on ABC 3 – Since Alexander Volkanovski dispatched former champion Max Holloway at UFC 276, it’s time to see if some new contenders can bring the fire. Cue Yair Rodriguez and Brian Ortega, who will compete Saturday with title shot implications in the balance.
According to Rodriguez, Dana White said he will get the shot if he wins. So, if No. 2 Ortega (15-2-0, 1NC), 31, can steal the show with an impressive win, perhaps he can secure another crack at the belt. After all, it was Ortega who arguably came the closest to finishing Volkanovski. “T-City” knows a loss will push him to the back of the conversation.
Standing in Ortega’s way will be the No. 3 “El Pantera,” (13-3-0, 1NC), 29, the charismatic striker who has learned to temper his flamboyancy with cardio, pressure, and timing. Rodriguez has had some good performances recently against Holloway (in a loss) and Jeremy Stephens, but like Ortega, needs to step up his game a few notches.
And so, we have the classic striker vs. Jiu-Jitsu matchup. Both are deceptively good in other areas, but this is a fight they must go with what brought they to the dance. That means that Rodriguez needs to chip away at Ortega with his striking and pile up the points. If he can, he should walk away with the win and the title shot.
Ortega needs to do more. He’s already had a shot and thus needs to finish Rodriguez or at least get a very convincing decision to avoid another title eliminator bout with say, Josh Emmett or Arnold Allen. Ortega needs to establish respect with his striking right away, so he can drag the fight to the ground. A tap would make a strong case for an immediate rematch. Would you agree, Dana?
A lot of eyes will be watching this one on ABC. Someone will need to step up.
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