UFC 239 Main Card Preview And Predictions

5. Diego Sanchez (29-11) Vs. Michael Chiesa (15-4)

The first main card bout of the evening will be a welterweight showdown between a pair of former Ultimate Fighter winners, Diego Sanchez, and Michael Chiesa.

Diego 'Nightmare' Sanchez has been fighting in the UFC for nearly fifteen years now. The 37-year-old has been a part of some of the most exciting fights in UFC history, due to his aggressive fighting style. Though he definitely has some mileage on him, the veteran proved he's still very dangerous with his most recent victory over a young prospect in Mickey Gall.

Micael 'Maverick' Chiesa is a submission specialist who is coming of off arguably the biggest win of his career, having defeated former UFC interim champ Carlos Condit. In just his second fight at welterweight, the 31-year-old is looking to make an impact in his new division.

Chiesa has a lot of advantages heading into this fight. He's roughly six years younger, a bit taller, and has almost a four-inch reach advantage. Both men have solid grappling skills, though Sanchez often prefers to trade blows with his opponents.

Diego Sanchez's aggressive fighting style has helped make him a fan favorite in the UFC, but it could be his undoing against a crafty submission artist like Chiesa. In truth, it's a style that plays right into the 'Maverick's" hands. Look for Sanchez to throw caution to the wind and wind up getting caught in an armbar or choke.

The Pick: Chiesa via second-round submission.