Flyweights
Tatsuro Taira (10-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. Carlos Candelario (8-1, 0-0 UFC)Two flyweight newcomers clash as the UFC continues to add depth to the division. Taira feels like the first top Japanese prospect that the UFC has picked up in a while, and he is certainly worth the shot. The third UFC fighter born in the 21st century, Taira is undefeated in his three-plus years as a professional. As a fighter, Taira is an accurate but overly patient striker, though he truly shines when things get to the mat. He is a talented grappler who went 3-for-3 in 2021 in terms of winning his fights via submission. For his first challenge, he will face Candelario, who had a long path to the Octagon. “The Cannon” won his 2017 fight on the first edition of Dana White’s Contender Series but did not earn a contract, leading to a four-year layoff until Candelario returned in August. He made up for lost time. After winning that return bout, Candelario stepped in for a fight on the 2021 season of the Contender Series just three and a half weeks later. Candelario looked decent enough in a decision loss to Victor Altamirano, but in a surprising move, UFC President Dana White decided to offer both men a contract. That made Candelario the first fighter to earn a UFC deal on the show after losing his fight. He represents a solid next test for Taira, but he will likely engage the Japanese prospect where he is at his best and suffer for it. Taira pops as a much more potent finisher and standout athlete on film.
FEELY’s PREDICTION: The pick is Taira via first-round submission.
Lee vs. Araujo
Johnson vs. Patrick
Jandiroba vs. Hill
Taira vs. Candelario
Maximov vs. Petroski