UFC Charlotte: Block Six preview

After a hiatus of over five years, the UFC is making its long-awaited comeback to the Spectrum Center in Charlotte, North Carolina. The event is packed with exciting bouts, with the main highlight being an intriguing heavyweight clash.

With an early start time set for midday ET, this event presents a unique "Brunch and Brawls" experience for fight enthusiasts. The fight card promises to deliver a thrilling afternoon of entertainment well before dinner time.

The preliminary card matches are filled with potential for explosive outcomes and Fight of the Night honors. The main card boasts of unmissable showdowns, culminating in a face-off between a couple of top-rated heavyweights who are eager to make their mark as they step into the Octagon for the first time in 2023.

Expect a day filled with non-stop action in "The Queen City" and you can be a part of the action by submitting your Block Six picks now.

Without further ado, we preview each of this week's featured Block Six fights:

Jairzinho Rozenstruik vs Jailton Almeida

Heavyweights Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Jailton Almeida are set for a head-on collision in Saturday's main event. They'll share the Octagon with each focused on advancing their status in the highly competitive division.

Rozenstruik, who is now into his fifth year with UFC, enters after a swift knockout victory over Chris Daukaus at UFC 282. Despite a recent 3-4 record, it's hard to criticize him for losses to former champs Francis Ngannou and Ciryl Gane, and top contenders Curtis Blaydes and Alexander Volkov.

Almeida made his UFC debut after a first-round submission win in Season 5 of Dana White’s Contender Series (DWCS). He has shown considerable growth since transitioning to the heavyweight division, having racked up three additional stoppage wins.

This fight is captivating for several reasons. Firstly, Almeida has to deal with his most challenging opponent yet in Rozenstruik. Secondly, this is a classic style clash, with Rozenstruik being a potent kickboxer, while Almeida prefers to tackle his opponents on the ground.

Will Rozenstruik, the veteran, come out on top, or will Almeida prove his mettle against the division's top contenders?

Anthony Smith v Johnny Walker

Light heavyweights Anthony Smith and Johnny Walker, both ranked, co-headline this Saturday's event in Charlotte, each aiming to advance further in their journey to the pinnacle of the 205-pound category.

Smith is making his comeback after an ankle injury sustained in a match against Magomed Ankalaev last July, his first loss after a streak of three consecutive first-round knockouts. Despite the setback, he maintains his status as one of the most seasoned and formidable opponents within the higher echelons of the division's rankings.

Walker, on the other hand, comes into the fight on a two-win momentum, with a first-round victory over Paul Craig at UFC 283 in January, building upon his previous year's win against Ion Cutelaba. The lanky Brazilian, now adjusting to life in Ireland and training under John Kavanagh at SBG, has demonstrated considerable improvements in his last two bouts.

The 205-pound division's top tier is currently in a state of flux, with the first title defense of champion Jamahal Hill yet to be confirmed, a comeback date for Jiri Prochazka still in the dark, and ex-champion Jan Blachowicz hinting at a transition to middleweight. Consequently, the upcoming fight presents an opportunity for the victor to inject some certainty into the volatile division and establish themselves as a potential contender against any of the highly-ranked fighters.

Daniel Rodriguez v Ian Garry

The welterweight division is set for a fascinating clash as Daniel Rodriguez squares off against Blockasset athlete Ian Garry.

Daniel Rodriguez, fondly known as "D-Rod", boasts a record of 7-2 in the Octagon since his UFC debut in early 2020. His victory list includes renowned names like Tim Means, Mike Perry, Kevin Lee, and Li Jingliang. His previous fight against Neil Magny was a tough battle that concluded with a third-round submission.

On the other hand, Garry has successfully kept his professional record spotless through his initial four UFC bouts, and he steps into Saturday's match following his most impressive performance yet. Facing Song Kenan earlier this year, the Irish up-and-comer was knocked down in the first round but managed to recover, rally, and conclude the bout in the third round, elevating his overall record to 11-0.

There's little doubting that Rodriguez represents a step up in opponent for Garry. The outcome of this weekend's match will be instrumental in determining whether "The Future" is prepared to step up as a contender or if he still requires further experience.

Tim Means v Alex Morono

Experienced fighters Tim Means and Alex Morono are set to clash in the opening bout of the main card.

At 39, Means is preparing for the 49th match of his professional career and his 27th time in the UFC Octagon this weekend. Despite recent setbacks in his last two matches, "The Dirty Bird" holds an overall positive record in the UFC. He aims to recapture the momentum that led to his victories over Thiago Alves, Mike Perry, and Nicolas Dalby.

Heading into a short-notice match with Santiago Ponzinibbio at UFC 282 last December, Morono had a four-match winning streak. Despite leading in the first two rounds, he was eventually caught off guard and defeated. The Texan has claimed victories in eight of his last 11 fights, and has established himself as a reliable contender in the welterweight division's "Second 15."

This match is not only an early favourite for Fight of the Night but also represents a seasoned pairing that deserves more recognition and appreciation. Both Means and Morono are known for their consistently thrilling performances. While neither has managed to rise into contention over the years, their unwavering dedication and electrifying performances each time they step into the cage deserve respect and applause.

Matt Brown v Court Mcgee

This weekend's preliminary fights draw to a close with a welterweight clash between Matt Brown and Court McGee, both veterans of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF).

At 42, Brown is looking to bounce back from a split decision defeat to Bryan Barberena in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio, last year—a match that was recognized as Fight of the Night.

Meanwhile, McGee is determined to recover from the first knockout loss of his career last summer. As we await the fight, the question on everyone's mind is: will it be the alum from TUF 7 or TUF 11 who secures the victory this Saturday?

Karl Williams v Chase Sherman

33 year-old Karl Williams returns to action swiftly after recording his inaugural Octagon victory against Lukasz Brzeski back in March, extending his winning streak to five.

On the other hand, Sherman arrives in North Carolina after a challenging period, having lost five out of his last six fights since rejoining the UFC with a win against Ike Villanueva.

Sherman remains optimistic about reigniting that victorious spark once again, but he'll need an impressive performance against Williams in Saturday's prelims to underline his beliefs.

Play Block Six now!

You have read the fight previews, now it's time to put your MMA knowledge to the test.

There will be a guaranteed five Block Six winners this weekend. Will you be one of them?

Submit your picks now!