Former lightweights who have found a second life in the welterweight division clash in this weekend’s penultimate pairing as Dos Anjos offers Chiesa his toughest test yet since relocating to the 170-pound weight division.
The Brazilian veteran is just 1-3 in his last four fights, but judging Dos Anjos on his record alone would be foolhardy, as those three setbacks came against current champ Kamaru Usman, recent title challenger Colby Covington, and streaking British standout Leon Edwards, who will look to cement his standing as next in line for a title shot in London when he faces Tyron Woodley.
Dos Anjos has been a Top 10 fixture since arriving in the division, and despite his spotty record of late, remains a durable, dangerous opponent for anyone with designs on reaching the top of the division. Though he hasn’t been able to get there himself, he’s turned back several hopefuls and will look to do the same to Chiesa this weekend.
Failing to make the 155-pound limit for his UFC 226 fight with Anthony Pettis prompted Chiesa to set a course for welterweight and through his first two appearances, the former TUF winner has established himself as an intriguing new addition to the 170-pound weight class. After submitting Carlos Condit in his welterweight debut, Chiesa followed it up with a one-sided mauling of “The Original Ultimate Fighter,” Diego Sanchez, in July, grinding out a clean sweep of the scorecards while showcasing outstanding control on the canvas.
With all due respect to the veterans he’s already vanquished, this will be the most serious test for Chiesa at this weight, as Dos Anjos is that guy you have to beat if you hope to move forward in the division. If he can maintain his winning ways, the already crowded title picture will get even more snug.
