UFC Vegas 107 Predictions

Erin Blanchfield and Maycee Barber are both relatively young fighters, yet their upcoming main event matchup at UFC Vegas 107 feels incredibly significant for both of their careers.

A victory isn`t likely to propel either immediately to the top of the flyweight title picture, especially considering Barber`s missed weight on Friday. Similarly, a loss shouldn`t be seen as a definitive setback, particularly given how both have previously rebounded from challenges.

Blanchfield`s Path

Blanchfield faced her first major test in the UFC when she was defeated by Manon Fiorot, a result that holds up well considering Fiorot`s recent competitive bout with champion Valentina Shevchenko. Long recognized as a top prospect, Blanchfield successfully returned to the win column with a determined performance against former strawweight champion Rose Namajunas.

Barber`s Journey

Barber once openly stated her ambition to become the youngest champion in UFC history, but this goal faced early hurdles with back-to-back losses to seasoned veteran Roxanne Modafferi and later, the fighter who would become champion, Alexa Grasso. However, Barber managed to turn her career trajectory around, achieving six consecutive wins. Had she not missed weight, she would likely be much closer to securing the title opportunity she seeks.

Beyond the potential title implications, there is a notable history and rivalry between Blanchfield and Barber, suggesting they will need little extra motivation to deliver an exciting fight when the cage door closes.

The UFC Vegas 107 event is being held at the UFC APEX in Las Vegas on Saturday, May 31st. The four-fight preliminary card is set to begin at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN+, followed by the six-fight main card at 9 p.m. ET, broadcast on ESPN and ESPN+.

Main Card Predictions

Erin Blanchfield vs. Maycee Barber

From a technical standpoint, Erin Blanchfield is a difficult opponent for most fighters, and despite her still-developing standup game, she holds an advantage over Maycee Barber in many key areas.

Barber`s biggest asset on her best day is her willingness to simply “scrap.” While her style isn`t always technically perfect or consistently effective, she can certainly land powerful shots when she throws caution to the wind. This aggressive approach is likely her best path to victory here. Considering fight mentalities, Barber clearly falls into the category of a pure “fighter” – she steps in there looking to inflict damage.

Interestingly, despite her seemingly mild demeanor, Blanchfield also possesses a mean streak in the cage. She has a more diverse skillset to control the fight regardless of Barber`s strategy. Blanchfield is capable of trading strikes if Barber comes forward aggressively, but she can also effectively use her strength to take the fight to the ground and secure rounds.

Prediction: Blanchfield wins a competitive decision.

Pick: Blanchfield

Mateusz Gamrot vs. Ludovit Klein

Mateusz Gamrot aims to stay active as he faces Ludovit Klein, who is currently on an impressive unbeaten streak of seven fights (6 wins, 1 draw). While Gamrot has been targeting higher-ranked opponents, he accepted the challenge of the dangerous Klein. A win here would add significant credibility to Gamrot`s resume, though he arguably has more to lose than gain from this matchup.

A favorable aspect for Gamrot is that he isn`t facing an exceptionally large lightweight like those who have troubled him in the past with their reach. Klein is slightly smaller than Gamrot, allowing “Gamer” to be more aggressive in pressing forward without excessive concern about unexpected knockout strikes.

However, Gamrot must still be cautious of Klein`s powerful kicks and counter-wrestling. Klein has proven himself to be a well-rounded fighter capable of adapting during a fight. Expect a cautious start as both fighters assess each other`s strengths.

Ultimately, I don`t believe Klein can fully neutralize Gamrot`s strong grappling and ground-and-pound attack for the entire three rounds. Gamrot should find success with takedowns, likely starting in the second round, and use relentless pressure to limit Klein`s offense. While he might need to survive a dangerous moment or two, Gamrot is expected to secure the victory on the scorecards.

Pick: Gamrot

Billy Ray Goff vs. Ramiz Brahimaj

Billy Ray Goff is known for being willing to stand and trade blows with anyone. It`s less clear if Ramiz Brahimaj shares that same primary inclination.

In his recent fight against Mickey Gall, Brahimaj displayed unexpected striking power, landing a shot that led to the first knockout win of his career. While he showed comfort on his feet, if Brahimaj wants to pull off an upset, returning to his grappling foundation is likely the better strategy.

Goff, however, will make implementing a grappling plan difficult. He is known for swarming opponents and mixing attacks to the head and body, which complicates setting up takedowns for Brahimaj. Brahimaj will need to take some risks to draw Goff into positions where his grappling can be effective.

Alternatively, there`s a scenario where Brahimaj gets hurt while striking and is forced to defend submissions from his back as Goff capitalizes. Regardless of how it unfolds, I anticipate Brahimaj`s grappling skills ultimately being the deciding factor, allowing him to secure a submission victory over Goff.

Pick: Brahimaj

Dustin Jacoby vs. Bruno Lopes

The light heavyweight division can be somewhat thin on consistent action, but one reliable constant is Dustin Jacoby entering the cage and delivering kickboxing clinics.

Bruno Lopes also brings an exciting style and appears to be a promising addition to the weight class. However, Jacoby`s precise, technical striking is favored over Lopes` more freestyle approach. Lopes` unpredictable movement should challenge Jacoby and potentially lead to entertaining exchanges between these skilled strikers.

I expect Lopes might try to mix in some takedowns to disrupt Jacoby`s rhythm, even if striking is going his way. But Jacoby is experienced and capable of defending these attempts to keep the fight standing, which is where he excels.

Lopes shows potential, but Jacoby`s experience in the octagon gives him the edge. Look for Jacoby to find a finish in the second round.

Pick: Jacoby

Ketlen Vieira vs. Macy Chiasson

This matchup presents some uncertainty. Ketlen Vieira has consistently performed well against top bantamweight contenders, win or lose. However, concerns remain regarding her weight management and her ability to handle taller opponents. It`s important to note that while Vieira requested this fight be moved to featherweight, Macy Chiasson is expected to be the physically larger fighter on fight night.

Chiasson has faced frustration with fights being canceled due to various issues, but when she does compete, she often impresses. The Ultimate Fighter 28 winner possesses unique physical attributes for the division and is likely to apply pressure early. Vieira is incredibly tough and an excellent grappler, making it interesting to see how much she prioritizes taking the fight to the ground.

This fight could unfold in one of two ways: either Vieira grinds out a decision win over a potentially frustrated Chiasson, or Chiasson manages to break through Vieira`s defenses and secure a finish, adding a respected veteran to her list of victories. I lean towards the latter outcome.

Pick: Chiasson

Zachary Reese vs. Dusko Todorovic

Serving as the main card opener, this middleweight clash between Zachary Reese and Dusko Todorovic features two fighters known for prioritizing offense over defense. Both will likely be focused on securing a finish to avoid being cut and potentially earn a bonus.

While this aggressive dynamic could theoretically lead to a cautious fight, I`m optimistic that both fighters will revert to their natural tendencies and engage in a striking battle. If that happens, I favor Reese to come out on top. Todorovic has more fights under his belt but has been finished too many times recently for confidence in his durability at this point.

Prediction: Reese wins by first-round knockout.

Pick: Reese