Tomorrow night in the co-main event of UFC Columbus, we are going to see a pivotal matchup in the women’s flyweight division. Top contenders will battle it out as Joanne “JoJo” Wood (15-7) takes on the surging Alexa Grasso (13-3).
Tomorrow night’s fight is a tale of two contenders going in the opposite direction. Back in 2020, Joanne Wood was named number one contender and was given a shot against UFC champion Valentina Shevchenko. However, the champion got injured and the fight was pushed back.
To stay active, Wood took a fight with Jennifer Maia and was submitted in the first round. Starting with that fight, Wood is just 1-3 in her last four including a two-fight losing streak. Most recently was a loss to Taila Santos back in November.
After entering the UFC unbeaten, Alexa Grasso struggled at strawweight. She was just 3-3 in six fights when she decided to move up to flyweight. That decision appears to be the correct one as she’s looked sensational winning her first two fights. Most recently was a win over Maycee Barber at UFC 258.
UFC Columbus Prediction
Both of these ladies need a win and for different reasons tomorrow night. For Wood, she needs a win to re-establish herself and to get back on track. Grasso needs a win to continue towards the top of the flyweight division.
With a lack of fresh challengers to Valentina Shevchenko, Grasso could be in an excellent position if she’s able to win. However, I don’t think Wood is going to make it easy on her at UFC Columbus.
Grasso is definitely going to have the advantage in the boxing, but Wood is excellent with her kicks. The outside fight is going to be fascinating as it will be a battle of the crisp hands of Grasso and the rangey kicks of Wood.
I think Wood is going to push the pace tomorrow knowing she needs a win. Don’t be surprised to see her try to engage in some clinch work as well. However, I just think it’s going to be Alexa Grasso’s time.
I’m expecting some sharp and stinging straight line punches to land for Grasso. Wood will land, but Grasso will have the bigger moments which will sway the judges. I’m expecting Alexa Grasso to firmly enter the UFC flyweight title picture tomorrow night.
Prediction: Alexa Grasso by Decision