The UFC has been putting in the work on this holiday week. ESPN’s Brett Okamoto is reporting that the promotion is close to finalizing a really good matchup at welterweight that will take place on Fight Island.
Per Okamoto, Michael Chiesa (17-4) and Neil Magny (24-7) will go head-to-head on the UFC‘s January 20th Fight Night. That card is being headlined by the welterweight matchup between Khamzat Chimaev and Leon Edwards.
January 20th will mark the UFC return for Michael Chiesa after spending the majority of 2020 on the sidelines. Chiesa last fought in January, but he’s been on the sidelines with leg injuries this year.
He’s seen a career resurgence since moving from lightweight up to the UFC‘s welterweight division. He’s won three straight at 170 which has placed him eighth in the rankings. Just one spot ahead of his opponent on January 20th.
UFC Welterweight Matchup
Standing across from Chiesa will be Neil Magny. Like Chiesa. The Haitian Sensation has won three straight in the UFC‘s welterweight division. Magny made his return this year after serving a suspension that kept him out for a year and a half.
Magny has looked sensational this year. His return started in March when he defeated Li Jingliang. Then he took on Anthony Rocco Martin at UFC 250. Both of those decision victories led him to a fight with former UFC champion, Robbie Lawler.
Magny completely outworked and dominated the former champion over the course of fifteen minutes. The victory was the biggest win of his career. Both of these contenders are in a prime spot to make that next leap in the welterweight division.
Whoever wins this matchup will likely get someone in the UFC‘s top five the next time out. Okamoto did note that should the main event have a fighter fall out, either Magny or Chiesa could serve as the backup for the main event.