Your Guide to the UFC 314 Prelims
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The UFC 314 main card features a title fight for the vacant featherweight championship between Alexander Volkanovski and Diego Lopes. But before the PPV gets underway, the prelims—kicking off at 8 PM ET on Saturday, April 12—offer plenty of action to get fans excited.
This go-to guide to the prelims for UFC 314 highlights experienced veterans chasing a title shot and promising newcomers making their UFC debuts:
Tresean Gore vs. Marco Tulio (185 lbs)
Marco Tulio made his UFC debut this year after earning a second win on Dana White’s Contender Series. He has showcased devastating knockout power against all opponents. Most of his fights end before seeing round three, but he does have the ability to go the distance. Tresean Gore on the other hand, struggled early in his UFC career after TUF 29, starting 0-2. However, he has since rebounded, securing back-to-back guillotine choke victories. Gore is still very early on in his MMA career since he has only seven professional fights on his record. But, in this classic grappler vs. striker matchup, Tulio appears to be an early favorite.
Su Mudaerji vs. Mitch Raposo (125 lbs)
Su Mudaerji, currently 3-4 in the UFC, enters this fight on a three-fight losing streak, so he may be fighting for his roster spot. Mitch Raposo dropped his UFC debut to Andre Lima—who has looked outstanding since—but also missed weight by four pounds. A strong performance here could reintroduce him as a serious contender. There seems to be a lot on the line in this fight, and both fighters will be desperate for a win. Mudaerji will have the edge in height, reach, and experience, which is nothing new for Raposo. That’s probably the reason why he’s looking like a slight favorite early on. But, this fight could truly go either way.
Chase Hooper vs. Jim Miller (155 lbs)
Jim Miller is a living legend in MMA, holding multiple UFC records and still competing at a high level at 41. Chase Hooper, is one of the most dangerous submission specialists in the sport, which presents an interesting challenge. But, Miller’s ground game remains highly capable. Hooper always finds a way to bring the fight to the mat and overwhelm his opponent. Is Miller savvy enough to avoid those encounters, and survive if the fight goes to the ground? Hooper is a considerably large favorite, so betting fans seem to think that Miller will not be.
Virna Jandiroba vs. Xiaonan Yan (115 lbs)
Xiaonan Yan recently fought for the strawweight title, but likely needs another win or two to earn another shot. This is especially true if Zhang Weili remains champion. But she has that championship experience, and now she knows what level she needs to be at. Meanwhile, Virna Jandiroba continues her climb toward a first title opportunity. Her most recent fight was a statement win coming via second-round armbar. If she can get past Yan, she will undoubtedly continue that climb. The fight lines are pretty even, as they should be. This is a close fight between the very top of the division.
Dan Ige vs. Sean Woodson (145 lbs)
Dan Ige won fans over by stepping in to fight Diego Lopes at UFC 303. We all know he did this after Brian Ortega withdrew on fight day. However, he now faces a two-fight skid. Despite impressive fights under wild circumstances, the results have not been great for Ige. But he has definitely established himself with fans, and lives the “any one, any weight, any time” mentality. Sean Woodson is looking better than ever, and hopes to capitalize on this moment against a fan favorite. He found the finish in his last fight as time was expiring in the first round. These two fighters are going to stand and trade strikes, so this one fans can’t miss. The lines are pretty even with Ige as the slightest of favorites early on. But, fans and bettors shouldn’t underestimate Sean Woodson.
Do not miss the UFC 314 prelims on Saturday, April 12 live on ESPN+. Let us know which fight you’re most excited for in the comments below!
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