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Again in 2016, Kelvin Gastelum was one of many absolute best Welterweights on the world. He’d not too long ago defeated former champion Johny Hendricks when that also meant one thing, and some fighters earlier, he took future champion Tyron Woodley to the brink in a 15-minute split-decision scrap.
The issue, nonetheless, was the size. Gastelum formally missed weight 3 times, together with a 10-pound scale fail reverse “T-Wooden.” He was purported to combat Donald Cerrone in 2016 as effectively, however Gastelum missed weight and was completely exiled to 185-pounds. UFC matched him up with an enormous robust wrestler in Tim Kennedy as revenge, however Gastelum beat the brakes off him as a result of he’s remarkably gifted.
Sadly, Gastelum’s Middleweight title run hasn’t actually materialized. Ever since his “Combat of the Yr” interim belt conflict with Israel Adesanya in 2019, Gastelum has didn’t put constant wins collectively. He did choose up a call over Chris Curtis — at present being appealed — final day trip, however that wasn’t sufficient to get him a title eliminator with Dricus du Plessis.
In an interview with ESPN Desportes, Gastelum revealed he’s unexpectedly heading again to 170 kilos! He’s additionally reportedly going to be working with Dana White’s nutritionist to assist make the load, so maybe that is one other instance of White going again on one among his “by no means” feedback.
Kelvin Gastélum instructed us he’s coming again to welterweight, UFC executives agreed with the transfer and he expects to get a combat in September. https://t.co/CNPBDW8scO
— Carlos Contreras Legaspi (@CCLegaspi) April 25, 2023
He additionally stated He’ll work with Dana White’s nutritionist to make the transfer
— Carlos Contreras Legaspi (@CCLegaspi) April 25, 2023
If Gastelum can certainly make the load and carry out effectively, he left the division as Prime 5 contender. Now 31 years of age, his window isn’t closed, however the stress is on for Gastelum to reside as much as his championship goals.
Who ought to Gastelum face in his Welterweight return?
Insomnia
Walt Harris hasn’t received a combat since July 2019, however he’s fought nothing however ranked opponents. Can “The Huge Ticket” bounce again right here?
Additionally, it’s the return of “The Meatball.”
My prediction for Henry Cejudo vs. Aljmain Sterling: neither can actually maintain the opposite down, so Sterling lands extra quantity as a result of his attain is seven inches longer and he’s on the fitting facet of 35.
I’ve by no means seen this comedy relic from the WSOF period!
Sergei Pavlovich has a stronger resume than Ciryl Gane, who ought to combat Curtis Blaydes subsequent.
Rodtang ripping up mitts:
Slips, rips, and KO clips
The caption is right — watch this!
Switching sides with the choke arm is among the greatest methods to sneak in a rear bare choke.
I loved this knockout greater than most, as I used to be at one level signed to combat the cocky man.
Random Land
Anybody bought a guess the place this was filmed? Doesn’t appear OSHA accepted.
Midnight Music: Pop, 1966
Sleep effectively Maniacs! Extra martial arts insanity is all the time on the best way.
