UFC 308 preview

UFC 308 is finally here, and this card is loaded with top-tier talent, culminating in a title fight for the featherweight championship. Let’s break down the main card matchups.

Shara Magomedov vs. Armen Petrosyan

Starting off the main card is a middleweight clash between top prospect Shara Magomedov and UFC veteran Armen Petrosyan. Magomedov, fresh from a third-round knockout over Michael Oleksiejczuk, is on an impressive run, aiming for his fourth win this year.

Meanwhile, Petrosyan, who comes off a loss to Rodolfo Vieira in February, looks to make a comeback with his striking, having previously defeated names like Gregory Rodrigues and Christian Leroy Duncan.

Both fighters are expected to keep the fight standing, highlighting Magomedov’s high-level Muay Thai skills. Petrosyan, 4-2 in the UFC but yet to score a finish, aims to make a statement and reestablish himself with a more dynamic showing. Expect a technical striking battle that could spotlight Magomedov’s potential for back-to-back finishes.

Lerone Murphy vs. Dan Ige

A high-stakes featherweight matchup follows with Lerone Murphy facing Dan Ige. Murphy, who recently beat Edson Barboza, remains undefeated and looks sharp as he continues his climb in the division. Ige, stepping in for Brian Ortega in his last fight against Diego Lopes, showed grit despite the loss and has historically struggled against the division’s top-tier fighters, like Bryce Mitchell and Josh Emmett.

Ige, known for his durability, will likely press Murphy with early aggression and test his opponent’s preference for fighting from a distance.

Though Ige has transitioned to a more striking-oriented approach, don’t be surprised if he looks for takedowns to disrupt Murphy’s rhythm. The winner of this bout could leap into contender territory and close in on a future title shot.

Magomed Ankalaev vs. Alexander Rakić

One of the most exciting fights of the night features Magomed Ankalaev, the clear No. 1 light heavyweight contender, facing off with Alexander Rakić. Ankalaev recently scored a dominant win over Johnny Walker, showcasing his skills against one of the UFC’s flashiest kickboxers.

Rakić, who last fought Jiri Prochazka, impressed early with powerful leg kicks before Prochazka surged in the second round. This fight is likely to stay on the feet, given both fighters' striking backgrounds. Rakić could have an edge with his leg kicks, which have been a problem for Ankalaev in the past.

With pressure mounting on Ankalaev as the favored contender, Rakić comes in as the underdog without the spotlight and could leverage that to his advantage. Don’t expect this fight to go the distance; both fighters have a point to prove, and neither will back down.

Robert Whittaker vs. Khamzat Chimaev

In a bout that likely determines the next middleweight title challenger, former champion Robert Whittaker takes on the ferocious Khamzat Chimaev. This fight was initially set for June but was postponed due to Chimaev’s illness.

Whittaker instead dominated Ikram Aliskerov, reaffirming his position as one of the greatest middleweights in UFC history. Known for his sharp boxing and relentless takedown defense, Whittaker faces Chimaev, who burst onto the UFC scene in 2020 and quickly built a reputation for relentless wrestling and finishing ability.

Chimaev’s gas tank, untested in five-round fights, will be a key factor here, as Whittaker’s experience in extended bouts could pay off. With a win, either fighter could be looking at a title shot against current middleweight champion Dricus Du Plessis.

Max Holloway vs. Ilia Topuria

The main event, with potential “Fight of the Year” written all over it, pits newly crowned featherweight champion Ilia Topuria against former champ Max Holloway. Topuria, who claimed the belt in February over Alexander Volkanovski, brings power and precision, while Holloway’s volume and technical brilliance have earned him wins over legends like Jose Aldo and Justin Gaethje.

This fight will likely stay standing, with both fighters known for their striking prowess. Holloway’s experience and output will be tested against Topuria’s heavy hands and pressure, creating an electrifying matchup between past and present champions.

For fans, this is an unmissable showdown between two of the division’s best, each eager to stake their claim at the top.

Alec Brown is a third-year majoring in broadcast journalism, to contact him please email aeb6680@psu.edu.