10 Major Predictions For UFC 225: Whittaker Vs. Romero 2
8. Ricardo Lamas Vs. Mirsad Bektic
Former Featherweight Title contender Ricardo Lamas got a raw deal at UFC on Fox: Lawler vs. dos Anjos.
His first-round TKO of Jason Knight earned a rematch with former divisional kingpin José Aldo, but 'Scarface' was pulled away to fight Max Holloway instead. In came Josh Emmett, who not only missed weight, but knocked Ricardo out cold in the first round.
He'll look to rebound against the talented Bektic, whose only UFC defeat remains a March 2017 TKO to Darren Elkins, which stands as one of the current era's most stunning come-from-behind performances. He responded with a TKO of Godofredo Pepey this January. Now, the dynamic Bosnian striker faces the biggest challenge of his career in Lamas, who brings significant wrestling pedigree to the Octagon, but lacks takedown defence himself.
Durability is a concern for Lamas, who will likely find himself smothered by Bektic's ground and pound on at least one occasion. He's a crafty fighter capable of creating his own openings, but his low output is another concern against Mirsad whose more complete striking game should see him through.
Prediction: Mirsad Bektic via third-round TKO.