This past weekend in the main event of UFC Austin, we saw a big time matchup in the featherweight division. Top seven contenders battled it out as Calvin Kattar (23-6) took on powerhouse Josh Emmett (18-2).
Whoever won this matchup was looking to establish themselves squarely in the UFC’s title picture at 145. Entering the fight, I figured we’d see a close fight pairing the power and explosiveness of Emmett to the precision and length of Kattar.
That’s exactly what we saw at UFC Austin. In the first few rounds, Kattar did a good job staying at range and landing straight shots. However, Emmett was landing the bigger shots.
It was very close when looking at the striking numbers. In my opinion, Emmett was up 2-1 entering the fourth round. In my opinion, Kattar clearly won the fourth round with his striking and I had it 2-2 entering the final frame at UFC Austin.
The round was another close one, but if you look at the numbers, it was another round for Kattar. I had Kattar winning 3-2, but honestly, didn’t have any issue with Emmett winning. Two judges gave it to Emmett and Kattar lost the split decision.
What’s next after UFC Austin?
This is another decision where there was a questionable call from the judges. I have no issues with giving Josh Emmett the fight, however, I do have an issue with one of the judges giving him the fourth round. Chris Lee has no business judging MMA and that’s been proven many times.
Anyway, Emmett got the win at UFC Austin and now it’s time for Kattar to regroup. I don’t think The Boston Finisher calls much after taking the loss on Saturday night. However, he isn’t going to be in the title picture after going 1-2 in his last three.
With that in mind, who should be next for him? I think when determining who is next for Kattar, we should look to the UFC Fight Night coming up in Long Island. In the main event, Brian Ortega takes on Yair Rodriguez.
Whoever loses that fight will be in a similar position as Kattar. I think whoever loses would make for a great matchup for Kattar and that’s what I’d go with.