Unified MMA 46 lands tomorrow evening in Edmonton, Alta., featuring what may be the most impressive card the Canadian regional circuit has ever put together. With UFC veterans mixing in with rising contenders, there's plenty to get excited about. Read on for my picks across every bout on the card.
Christian Larsen (7-2) vs. Jamelle Jones (12-8): PRO Heavyweight Title Bout** LARSEN PREVIEW, JONES PREVIEW
This represents a serious challenge for the imposing heavyweight from Shaved Bears MMA. I believe Larsen's physical advantages and agility will overwhelm Jones, though expect some heated exchanges along the way.
Prediction: Larsen wins via TKO.
KB Bhullar (11-4) vs. Curtis Millender (18-9): PRO Middleweight BHULLAR PREVIEW, MILLENDER PREVIEW
I picture this one leaning toward kickboxing exchanges. Both fighters bring UFC experience and highlight-reel knockouts to the table. This ranks among the sharpest striking duels Unified MMA has staged. I lean toward Millender's boxing giving him the edge, particularly with his straight punches finding their mark.
Prediction: Millender wins via decision.
Neal Anderson (11-5) vs. Brandon Jenkins (15-9): PRO Lightweight FIGHT PREVIEW
Thrilled to see Anderson stepping into the 155-pound division. His build looks ideally suited for light heavyweight, though this debut test against UFC and PFL vet Jenkins won't come easy. Jenkins' footwork and versatility may prove too much, though I'd welcome being proven wrong here.
Prediction: Jenkins wins via TKO.
Stephen Beaumont (9-3) vs. Michael Hill (11-6-1): PRO Welterweight
Hill brings elite-level experience and a fan-friendly approach that keeps things exciting. Beaumont will happily engage as he steps back into the cage after a four-year layoff. I expect Beaumont's grappling and conditioning to tilt this in his favor.
Prediction: Beaumont wins via TKO.
Tyrell Giselbrecht (2-1) vs. Sean Michael (2-0): PRO Lightweight
A compelling clash between two rising Alberta fighters. Giselbrecht's nonstop pace is exceptionally difficult to counter, and that's likely where he'll pull ahead this Friday night.
Prediction: Gieselbrecht wins via decision.
Jett Grande (4-0-1) vs. Alex O'Neil (4-0): PRO Lightweight
Two of Canada's top prospects are stepping into the cage together. Of course, only one can walk away victorious. Both carry deep amateur experience, but Grande's wrestling pedigree makes me hesitant to bet against him. He's kept busier on the schedule and appears to sharpen with each appearance.
Prediction: Grande wins via decision.
Usman Khattak (5-2) vs. Leo Bonin (3-1): AMATEUR Featherweight
Khattak brings reliable wrestling to the table, yet Bonin has demonstrated equally noteworthy grappling inside the Unified octagon. Bonin has now won three in a row. I anticipate this bout landing on the canvas at some stage, and I believe Bonin will eventually hunt down a submission finish.
Prediction: Bonin wins via submission.
Laine Foxton (3-1) vs. AJ Markett (1-0): AMATEUR Lightweight
Markett remains relatively unfamiliar territory for me. Foxton, however, is based at Edmonton's Kingdom MMA — a gym currently producing some fine fighters. I'll side with the marginally more seasoned competitor here.
Prediction: Foxton wins via decision.
Jake Craig (2-0) vs. Sean Pereira (0-0): AMATEUR Heavyweight
Heavyweight bouts tend to throw curveballs, and this one carries debut stakes. I'm tipping Craig just because I've had ringside experience watching him before.
Prediction: Craig wins via TKO.
Gabriel Brown (0-2) vs. Edwin Ssekibuule (0-0): AMATEUR Flyweight
Brown's amateur run started with a rough opening, but I expect him to turn things around here. He possesses a respectable striking foundation and trains out of Shaved Bears MMA. Worth keeping tabs on as a prospect.
Prediction: Brown wins via decision.
