This is the first of two bouts pitting top contenders against each other. Bautista has evolved into a complete fighter who has some of the best durability in the division. His best chance will be to try to impose his physicality to slow down his opponent and create openings.

Sandhagen is also well-rounded with elite movement and creative striking. He is a puzzle for most, as his attack patterns cause his adversaries to become frustrated and too reactive.

This will be a high-level contest that goes the distance. Sandhagen will win with the more effective offense from a variety of angles. Prediction: Sandhagen By Unanimous Decision

Co-Main Event: Benoit “God Of War” Saint Denis (17-3) Versus Paddy “The Baddie” Pimblett (23-4), 3 Rounds At Lightweight

This fight has major stakes attached to it, with the winner in the mix for a future title shot against Justin Gaethje if he continues fighting. Saint Denis is pure violence, living up to his nickname by marching forward and forcing his opponents to fight at a relentless pace. The “God Of War” is equally dangerous with grappling or striking, so he will be comfortable wherever the fight ends up.

Pimblett will need to find a way to keep Saint Denis off of him to avoid being walked down. “The Baddie” possesses the level of jiu-jitsu that makes fighters think twice about going to the ground with him. His gameplan should be focused around countering Saint Denis’ aggression.

This is likely to be a brutal fight, as the ground game of both men will keep the fight standing. Pimblett will play the role of matador in drawing the bullish Saint Denis to get him down and lock in a choke during a wild exchange. Prediction: Pimblett By Second-Round Submission