Who’s next for Curtis Blaydes after career-best win at UFC Raleigh?
Heavyweight contender Curtis “Razor” Blaydes earned a career-best win at UFC Raleigh this weekend.
The 28-year-old knocked out former champion Junior dos Santos inside two rounds. After such a big win, he appears to be on the cusp of a title shot, but may need one more significant victory in order to get it.
Here’s three fights we think could/should be made next for the American.
Derrick Lewis
Former heavyweight title challenger Derrick Lewis appears to be the fight to make. This is of course provided he comes through his UFC 247 bout against Ilir Latifi on Feb 7. The “Black Beast” is the biggest name available outside of the top three guys, Stipe Miocic, Daniel Cormier and Francis Ngannou. He is always entertaining both in and out of the cage, Lewis would bring a ton of attention to the fight. Whilst a win over the 34-year-old would solidify Blaydes’ position as number one contender.
Alexander Volkov
The #7 ranked heavyweight Alexander Volkov could be another option for Blaydes in his next fight. Before losing to Lewis, the Russian was on the verge of a title shot himself. High profile wins over former champion Fabricio Werdum, Stefan Struve and Roy Nelson make him a top contender. He got back to winning ways last time out against Greg Hardy. As of yet, the UFC are haven’t announced his next opponent.
Why not make a fight between these two?
Stipe Miocic
Bladyes is on the verge of a title shot and although he likely needs one more, he might be able to get it next. Fans, fighters and promoters hope Miocic will complete his trilogy with Daniel Cormier first. However, the Ohio native doesn’t seem keen at all. He has openly talked about wanting a fresh challenge against someone he hasn’t yet fought. In steps, Blaydes who is young, is on a tear and has yet to compete for UFC gold.
It is a long shot, but don’t be too surprised if we see “Razor” in with the heavyweight champion next.
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The Scrap
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The Scrap
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