John Dodson vs. Darrell Montague
Bruce Kluckhohn-USA TODAY Sports
Craig Amos
The UFC adds another promising flyweight in Montague, but they aren't taking their time to build him up. In fact, they're throwing the poor chap to the wolves. Dodson is a remarkably stiff test as a first UFC fight, and when you add in the novelty of the Octagon, it'll all prove too much to overcome for "The Mongoose."
Dodson, Rd. 2, Knockout
James MacDonald
This is a great fight. Make sure your eyes are well lubricated beforehand or else you might blink and miss something spectacular. I’m a fan of Montague, but I have a feeling he’ll come unstuck against John Dodson, who has a ton of potential. I’m taking the former TUF winner by unanimous decision.
Dodson, Unanimous Decision
Riley Kontek
I can't think of a better way to kick of the main card. Darrell Montague is one of the top flyweights in the world, but he is taking on a former title challenger and the quickest man at flyweight in John Dodson. Montague relies a lot on his wrestling and grappling to stifle opponents, but Dodson has top-notch takedown defense and wizard-like striking. Montague is durable and will give Dodson some tough spots to work out of, but "The Magician" will walk away victorious.
Dodson, Unanimous Decision
Sean Smith
Montague hasn't competed inside the Octagon, but he's already one of the best flyweights in the world. He won't be eased into his UFC career, though. Dodson is also one of the top 125-pounders going and proved it against UFC champion Demetrious Johnson in a highly competitive matchup. This should be closely contested, but Dodson's experience on
MMA's biggest stage should help him early on as Montague settles in and deals with the debut jitters that often hamper UFC newcomers.
Dodson, Unanimous decision
Scott Harris
Best fight on the non-event main card? Maybe. I just hope they give Montague another shot after Dodson knocks him out. It won't be fully representative.
Dodson, TKO, Rd. 1