I want some predictions. We've got a pretty stacked card and some real interesting match-ups. I'll be watching live so if anybody fancies a live-chat I'm sure I can get online!
It's still a bummer that Aldo tucked his tail and ran but having Mendes as a replacement is still absolute fire and in my opinion a tougher match-up for Conor stylistically. Mendes is one of the elite wrestlers in MMA and with McGregor still unproven against a wrestler I worry what will happen if Chad decides to just beast him to the mat and work the ground and pound - Chad also has KO power in his hands so if he manages to get in close enough he can cause some real damage.
Conor has to work his jab and utilize his size/reach advantage - his movement is unrivaled and if he's as relaxed as he's been with everybody else in the Octagon we could have a classic on our hands.
Prediction: Heart says Conor, head says Chad. I'm going to go with Mendes though, I think he'll keep the fight grounded and win it on the mat, sadly.
If anyone hasn't seen the first Lawler/McDonald fight I'd recommend you give it a watch, it was a great fight and could've gone either way on the night. Robbie has some fucking power behind those punches, his takedown defense is great and he's excellent at using his weight to his advantage.
That said I think Rory has developed a ton since they last met and is the more well-rounded fighter and I'm expecting (and hoping) he'll get the win.
Prediction: I'll go for Rory to become the new champ and say he'll get it by UD but I really don't know.
There's a lot to root for on the show if you're European - I'm hopeful of wins for Gunni Nelson, Brad Pickett and Cathal Pendred, too.
