UFC Vegas 97 has concluded, with attention now turning to UFC 306, also known as Noche UFC redux. Sean Brady claimed a significant victory over Gilbert Burns, positioning himself as a contender in the 170-pound division. However, the major headline of the week was the retirement announcement of MMA legend Demetrious Johnson, leading to discussions on his legacy and status as one of the greatest fighters of all time.
Demetrious Johnson is considered one of the top contenders for the title of Greatest of All Time, alongside Jose Aldo, Georges St-Pierre, Anderson Silva, Jon Jones, and Fedor Emelianenko. Johnson’s remarkable feat of defending his UFC title 11 times is a record that is likely to stand for a long time, setting him apart in the sport. His impeccable track record and domination in his weight class further cement his position among the legends of the sport.
Looking back on Johnson’s move to ONE Championship, there is a feeling of missed opportunities for fans, as potential matchups with fighters like Henry Cejudo, Deiveson Figueiredo, and Brandon Moreno could have been thrilling to witness. While the trade was beneficial for all parties involved, the UFC may have missed witnessing Johnson’s final performances as a fighter.
When considering potential matchups in the future, a showdown between Sean Brady and Ian Machado Garry could be captivating, although Garry might be aiming for bigger challenges against fighters like Usman or Covington. If the matchup comes to fruition, it would showcase two skilled fighters with distinct strengths, making it an exciting contest to watch.
As the spotlight shifts to UFC 306, speculation arises about the possible scenarios and matchups that may unfold in the coming days.
