Predictions: Unified MMA 49

Unified MMA is wrapping up 2022 with Unified MMA 49, a stacked show that promises plenty of excitement. On the lineup, Graham Park returns to the cage to put his light heavyweight belt on the line, and fans can look forward to what could be Fight of the Night between Nick Hrabec and Tim Smith.

Below, my full card breakdown:

Graham Park (8-3) vs. Ty Flores (9-4) PRO Light Heavyweight Title Bout** PARK PREVIEW, FLORES PREVIEW

Unified MMA has a reputation for giving their titleholders legitimate challenges, and Flores fits that bill perfectly here. Despite what his record suggests, he's a serious threat. Park's power and relentless pressure have carried him through most of his runs, and he certainly carries finishing power over Flores at any moment—but I'm leaning toward Flores. He's taken down and defeated several highly-ranked fighters, and he trains alongside heavyweight contender Curtis Blaydes.

Prediction: Flores by submission.

Nick Hrabec (8-5) vs. Tim Smith (16-12): PRO 165 pounds HRABEC PREVIEW, SMITH PREVIEW

This matchup is incredibly difficult to call. Smith is a warrior who continues to improve at 39, and I'd love to pick both men, but with only one winner allowed, I'm going with Hrabec. I believe his reach and quickness will ultimately decide the outcome.

Prediction: Hrabec by decision.

Aaron Bosiak (4-2) vs. Cody Ries (3-2): PRO 165 pounds

I don't know either fighter particularly well—both have been inactive for more than six years—so this feels like a throwback matchup. I expect Bosiak to roll into the bout from a strong training camp, well-conditioned for a comeback appearance.

Prediction: Bosiak by submission.

Harley King (2-1) vs. Devon Lozej (2-1): PRO Bantamweight

This bout deserves more attention—it's two genuinely rising prospects clashing. Both athletes have routes to victory. I think King edges out the stand-up exchanges, but Lozej could exploit openings in the clinch and with takedowns. Either man could walk away victorious, though I'm picking Lozej.

Prediction: Lozej by decision.

Jo Maisonneuve (1-2) vs. Shannon Clark (1-0): PRO Women's 130 pounds

I might come off as overly confident here, but I genuinely believe Clark has Maisonneuve's number across every facet of this matchup and should glide through comfortably.

My pick: Clark takes the fight on points.

Matt Klute (1-1) vs. Caleb Ermine (0-2): PRO Featherweight

Klute has been away from the octagon longer than most fans realize, but I'm thrilled to see him step back inside. He consistently delivers exciting performances, and I expect him to put on a convincing show here — his skill level sits well above Ermine's.

My pick: Klute wins by decision.

Jake Craig (3-0) vs. Terell Jonasson (2-0): AMATEUR Heavyweight Title Bout

Whatever round this fight goes, it should be a spectacle. Jonasson loves to hunt for the big shot, whereas Craig operates with more precision but still carries plenty of power. I'm leaning toward Craig landing the fight-ending strike.

My pick: Craig finishes with a knockout.

Gabriel Brown (1-2) vs. Kulbir Singh (0-0): AMATEUR Flyweight

Singh is stepping into the cage for the very first time, so there's no tape to review on him. Given that uncertainty, I'll take Brown's seasoned experience into this matchup.

My pick: Brown wins by decision.

Tony Rojas (2-1) vs. Edwin Ssekibuule (0-1): AMATEUR Flyweight

This bout should provide a great way to kick off the card. Rojas tasted defeat in his last outing, but I have faith he'll bounce back with a victory tonight.

My pick: Rojas wins by decision.

Predictions brought to you by Lisa McInnes – Verico Paragon Mortgage Inc.

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