UFC has made its way to the land of 10,000 lakes and tomorrow top heavyweights are set to go to war at Target Center in Minneapolis, Minnesota. Francis Ngannou will take on Junior Dos Santos in a highly anticipated match-up that will likely shape the heavyweight title contender picture.
Elsewhere on the card, longtime flyweight title contender Joseph Benavidez looks to earn his second win over the rising Jussier Formiga. The winner of this showdown will be the next gentleman to line-up across from double champion Henry Cejudo at 125-lbs. UFC veteran and welterweight title challenger Demian Maia will take on Minnesota’s own Rocco Martin in a battle of submission specialists and gritty competitors.
Get ready for UFC Minneapolis by watching the past performances of some of the card’s biggest stars and prospects. Watch the full collection here: https://www.ufc.tv/category/ufc-minneapolis-fights-to-watch
Francis Ngannou vs Curtis Blaydes 2
UFC Beijing – November 24, 2018
It’s no secret that Francis Ngannou has another level of power. He has shown that time and time again. But after his disappointing fight with Derrick Lewis at UFC 226, Ngannou had a lot to prove. He did just that, defeating the surging Curtis Blaydes for the second time.
Junior Dos Santos vs Tai Tuivasa
UFC Adelaide – December 2, 2018
Putting together a win streak is an important thing in the UFC. Just under six months removed from fighting Blagoy Ivanov at UFC Boise, former heavyweight champion took on the undefeated Tai Tuivasa on his home turf. „Cigano“ would extend his win streak to two straight as he took care of business down under.
Jussier Formiga vs Ben Nguyen
UFC 221 – February 10, 2017
Jussier Formiga has shown flashes of excellence during his UFC tenure. He might of shined brightest against the exciting Ben Nguyen though. Formiga displayed his punching power and submission game in route to a nice finish.
Joseph Benavidez vs Alex Perez
TUF 28 Finale – November 30, 2018
If you’re looking to pick a poster child for career longevity, look no further than flyweight Joseph Benavidez. The guy has been around since the beginning of the division and has done nothing but stay the top contender. Last November, Benavidez made waves at TUF 28 Finale as he took out a tough opponent in Alex Perez.
Demian Maia vs Carlos Condit
UFC Vancouver – August 27, 2016
Demian Maia is one of the most respected athletes in the mixed martial arts community, both for his personality and for his grappling ability. Maia and his special submissions worked against former champion Carlos Condit in Vancouver.
Rocco Martin vs Jake Matthews
UFC Adelaide – December 2, 2018
Rocco Martin doesn’t lack in confidence – and why should he? Martin trains with some of the best in the world at American Top Team and has some of the slickest submissions in the division. Jake Matthews found that out the hard way.
Alonzo Menifield vs Vinicus Moreira
UFC Brooklyn – January 19, 2019
Alonzo Menifield made a big impression on Dana White’s Contender Series, knocking out his opponent with a single strike. Next on the docket for the undefeated light heavyweight was Vinicius Moreira at UFC Brooklyn. Let’s just say that Menifield didn’t disappoint.
P.S. If you haven’t heard the story behind Alonzo Menifield, do yourself a favor and check out this article on UFC.com.
Paul Craig vs Magomed Ankalaev
UFC London – March 17, 2018
It’s not over until the clock hits triple zeroes. Paul Craig, who might need to change his name to „The Last Minute Finisher“, showed true heart by securing a come-from-behind victory with just one second remaining in his bout with Magomed Ankalaev.
Check out the full UFC Minneapolis collection here: https://www.ufc.tv/category/ufc-minneapolis-fights-to-watch
Make sure you tune in to watch the entire UFC Minneapolis card. The ESPN prelims begin at 6pm/3pm ETPT and the main card starts on ESPN at 9pm/6pm ETPT.
Gavin Porter is a digital producer and writer for UFC.com, follow him on Twitter at @PorterUFCNews
