UFC 307: Strikers Are Gonna Scrap!

UFC 307 is set to light up Salt Lake City on October 5, 2024, as top strikers from around the globe converge at the Delta Center. With two title fights headlining the card and a lineup of matchups primed to deliver fireworks, this event promises to be one for the history books. Let’s dive into the action and preview what could be one of the most exciting nights in UFC history.

Main Event: Alex Pereira vs. Khalil Rountree Jr.

The main event is a striking fan’s dream, as UFC light heavyweight champion Alex Pereira defends his title against the surging Khalil Rountree Jr. Pereira, known for his devastating power and precision, is riding high with four consecutive wins. After securing the title in 2023 with a knockout over Jiri Prochazka, he has looked unstoppable, finishing both Jamahal Hill and Prochazka again in his two subsequent defenses. Pereira’s striking prowess is otherworldly—his ability to finish fights with a single, well-placed blow makes him a nightmare in the Octagon.

Khalil Rountree Jr. enters this fight with a five-fight win streak, and four of those victories came by way of knockout. His most recent fight saw him brutally stop Anthony Smith with a perfectly timed left hand. Rountree’s combination of raw power and ferocity makes him a dangerous opponent for anyone, including the reigning champ.

Expect fireworks from the opening bell. Both Pereira and Rountree thrive in striking exchanges, and this fight will likely come down to who can land the first clean shot. Will Pereira continue his reign of terror, or can Rountree score the biggest win of his career and dethrone one of the most feared strikers in the sport? Either way, this one is bound to be explosive.

Co-Main Event: Raquel Pennington vs. Julianna Peña

The co-main event is a battle for the UFC bantamweight title, as Raquel Pennington defends her belt against former champion Julianna Peña. Pennington has been on an incredible run, winning six straight fights, including her title victory over Mayra Bueno Silva earlier this year. Known for her toughness and grinding style, Pennington has evolved into a complete fighter capable of outlasting and outsmarting her opponents.

Peña, meanwhile, is returning to the Octagon after a long injury layoff. She was forced to withdraw from her trilogy bout with Amanda Nunes last year, but now, she’s back and ready to reclaim the title she once held. Peña’s aggressive approach and submission skills make her a formidable challenge for Pennington. With a personal rivalry dating back to their time on *The Ultimate Fighter*, expect emotions to run high in this one.

Other Main Card Highlights

- José Aldo vs. Mario Bautista: The legendary José Aldo returns to the Octagon in search of his second win of 2024. After coming out of retirement with a victory over Jonathan Martinez, Aldo looks sharp and motivated to make one last run at a title in the bantamweight division. Standing in his way is Mario Bautista, a rising contender with six straight wins under his belt. This fight could determine the next big name in the division.

- Ketlen Vieira vs. Kayla Harrison: Vieira faces a stern test in the form of two-time Olympic gold medalist Kayla Harrison. After dominating Holly Holm in her UFC debut, Harrison looks to keep the momentum going and secure a shot at the bantamweight title. Vieira, however, is no stranger to big fights, having earned victories over Miesha Tate and Holm in the past. The winner of this fight will likely be next in line for a title shot.

- Roman Dolidze vs. Kevin Holland: This middleweight matchup promises to deliver action, as Dolidze looks to use his grappling and strength to overpower the flashy Kevin Holland. Both fighters are coming off wins, and their contrasting styles make this a must-watch bout to kick off the main card.

Prelims to Watch

The preliminary card is stacked with exciting matchups as well, including a welterweight showdown between Stephen “Wonderboy” Thompson and Joaquin Buckley. Thompson, a veteran of the sport, is looking to get back on track after a loss to Shavkat Rakhmonov, while Buckley is riding a wave of momentum with four straight wins at welterweight.

In the strawweight division, Marina Rodriguez faces off with the rising Iasmin Lucindo, with both Brazilians looking to solidify their spot in the top 10. Lucindo has been on fire with three straight wins, but Rodriguez’s experience and striking may give her the edge.

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UFC 307 is shaping up to be an unforgettable event, packed with thrilling matchups and high-stakes title fights. Whether you’re tuning in for the elite striking of Pereira and Rountree or the bitter rivalry between Pennington and Peña, this card has something for every MMA fan. Buckle up, because the action is about to get real!