Tomorrow night in the main event of UFC Vegas 46, we will see a big time showdown in the featherweight division. Top contenders will battle it out in a matchup with big time implications as Calvin Kattar (22-5) returns to take on the surging Giga Chikadze (14-2).
UFC Vegas 46 will be the first time we’ve seen Calvin Kattar in about a year. Last year, Kattar kicked off the UFC’s 2021 when he took on Max Holloway in a headlining fight on Fight Island. Had Kattar won that fight, he might’ve had a title shot in 2021.
However, he fell short and took such a beating that he took some time away. Now, he’s refreshed and ready to go. Overall, Kattar is 2-1 in his last three and the two wins came against top contenders Dan Ige and Jeremy Stephens.
Standing across from Kattar tomorrow night is Giga Chikadze. Chikadze has been on a sensational run since joining the UFC. Chikadze is currently sitting at 7-0 with the promotion. In his last fight, he completely destroyed Edson Barboza and proved he’s one of the best in the world.
UFC Vegas 46 Prediction
This is such a fun fight to headline the first UFC card of 2022. Both of these guys have tremendously exciting styles, but they also are very different in their approach. Chikadze is a very kick-heavy striker while Kattar prides himself on his boxing.
On pure boxing technique, Kattar is one of the very best in the promotion. Meanwhile Chikadze might be the best kickboxer in the featherweight division. A clash of striking styles should produce a sensational fight at UFC Vegas 46.
One thing to watch for is the counter striking of Kattar. His boxing is good enough to time Chikadze’s shots and fire over the top. That said, the range could end up being an issue for Kattar. I expect a lot of low kicks and body kicks from Chikadze early. Expect him to try and zap that gas tank.
I think we are finally going to see Chikadze’s chin tested tomorrow. Kattar is going to hit him and I’m curious to see how he takes a shot considering he really hasn’t been hit clean in the UFC. Ultimately, I think he’s going to be able to withstand the shots.
Ultimately, I think that Chikadze is going to get the win. I think he’s going to pull away in the early rounds with his kick-heavy attack. However, I’m expecting Kattar to come on strong late. If Chikadze gasses out, don’t rule out a Kattar stoppage late. That said, I think Chikadze gets a decision win at UFC Vegas 46.
Prediction: Giga Chikadze by Unanimous Decision