UFC 248 Main Card Preview And Predictions
4. Neil Magny (21-7) Vs. Li Jingliang (17-5)
UFC 248 will mark the return of longtime welterweight standout Neil Magny. Magny is very much a jack of all trades, master of none type of fighter. That being said, despite not really having a specialty, the crafty vet has managed to defeat former champs like Carlos Condit and Johny Hendricks. He's a tall, rangy competitor with excellent cardio and very solid fight IQ.
China's Li 'The Leech' Jingliang is riding a three-fight win streak and will get a step up in competition in the form of Magny. 'The Leech' is very much a pressure fighter who likes to try and overwhelm his opponents with aggressive striking. While not the most technically refined striker in the game, Jingliang is explosive and packs a punch.
Magny will need to earn Jingliang's respect early to keep from being overwhelmed and avoid either being knocked out or giving up a decision due to output.
That being said, Magny does have some distinct physical advantages over his opponent; he is roughly three inches taller and has a massive eight-inch reach advantage. So it should be tough for Jingliang to get in range if Magny fights smart.
It's also worth noting that Magny hasn't fought since November 2018 (a KO loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio), so ring rust could also play a factor.
In truth, it just doesn't seem like reach alone will be enough to keep 'The Leech' at bay for the majority of the fight and Magny isn't known for his knock out power. Jinliang also has a stronger grappling pedigree (at least on paper), if they decide to go to the mat.
The Pick: Jingliang via TKO.