The UFC is heading to the United Arab Emirates this weekend for the UFC Abu Dhabi fight card, also known as UFC on ABC 7. The event is set to take place at the Etihad Arena, with the headlining bout featuring Cory Sandhagen against Umar Nurmagomedov in a crucial bantamweight battle. Earlier on the main card, Mackenzie Dern will face Loopy Godinez in a significant strawweight matchup. The event kicks off at 3:00 p.m. ET on ABC, with prelims starting at 12:00 ET on ESPN2 and ESPN+.
Mackenzie Dern, ranked No. 7 in the official UFC strawweight rankings, enters the fight against Godinez as a skilled grappler with a background in Brazilian jiu-jitsu. Dern joined the UFC in 2018 and made a name for herself by winning several fights via submission. However, in recent matchups, she has struggled with her striking and takedowns, resulting in losses to tough opponents such as Marina Rodriguez and Jessica Andrade. Dern needs a win in Abu Dhabi to solidify her position in the division and work towards a potential title shot.
Loopy Godinez, ranked No. 10 in the UFC strawweight division, has had a successful career so far, culminating in her UFC debut in 2021. With a record of 12-4, Godinez has shown strong striking skills and grappling abilities. Despite a recent loss to Angela Hill, Godinez bounced back with a four-fight winning streak, earning her the No. 10 ranking in the division. At 30 years old, Godinez has never lost back-to-back bouts in her career, showcasing her resilience and determination.
Betting odds for the Dern vs. Godinez fight have fluctuated since the matchup was announced. Originally, Godinez was the favorite, but as fight night approaches, Dern has become the favored fighter. Significant stats show that Godinez has better striking numbers compared to Dern, with higher accuracy and takedown rates. However, both fighters have areas of improvement and vulnerabilities that could impact the outcome of the fight. Ultimately, the prediction is for Godinez to win by decision, given her overall skill set and experience in the octagon.
The UFC Abu Dhabi event promises to be an exciting night of fights, with the Dern vs. Godinez matchup highlighting the evening. As both fighters look to climb the ranks in the strawweight division, the outcome of this fight could have significant implications for their future in the UFC. Fans can expect a competitive and intense battle between two skilled athletes, with each fighter bringing their unique strengths and strategies to the octagon. With the odds favoring Dern, but the prediction leaning towards Godinez, fight night will undoubtedly be full of surprises and thrilling moments for MMA enthusiasts around the world.
In conclusion, the UFC’s journey to Abu Dhabi for UFC on ABC 7 brings a highly anticipated fight card featuring top-ranked fighters such as Mackenzie Dern and Loopy Godinez. With both fighters looking to make a statement and secure a victory, the stakes are high for this strawweight matchup. Fans can tune in to watch the action-packed event unfold, with the main card kicking off at 3:00 p.m. ET on ABC. The outcome of the Dern vs. Godinez fight will undoubtedly have a lasting impact on the UFC strawweight division, setting the stage for future matchups and potential title contention opportunities for the victor.
