5 fights to make following UFC 270

#4. Michel Pereira vs. former UFC title challenger Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson

(Left) Michel Pereira and (Right) Stephen Thompson

After Michel Pereira’s performance at UFC 270, the promotion should consider booking in a bout against former title-challenger Stephen ‘Wonderboy’ Thompson. Pereira's high-risk offense featuring somersault kicks and Superman punches off the fence has made him a fan favorite. ‘Wonderboy’ would be the perfect opponent for ‘Demolidor’ as their fighting styles are similar.

Both fighters have a karate background, so the fight would most likely be contested in the stand up. Periera has recently done a better job pacing himself instead of going for flashy first-round finishes like he’s done in the past. This has served him well as he’s gone the distance in three straight bouts and hasn’t looked exhausted in the final round.

Despite the Brazilian not being ranked, Thompson vs. Periera wouldn’t necessarily be a mismatch. ‘Wonderboy’ has lost back-to-back fights, while ‘Demolidor’ is riding a four-fight winning streak.

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#3. Former UFC interim heavyweight champion Ciryl Gane vs. Derrick Lewis/Tai Tuivasa winner

Following the UFC 270 main event, the promotion should book Ciryl Gane against the winner of Derrick Lewis vs. Tai Tuivasa. Gane was unsuccessful in his title unification bout with Francis Ngannou. But it shouldn’t be ignored that he’s been a pro MMA fighter for only three-and-a-half years. ‘Bon Gamin’ stated after the fight that he wouldn’t want to fight for a vacant or interim title.

If Lewis wins, it’d set up a rematch against Gane, who’d be coming into the fight following a loss. ‘Bon Gamin’ defeated ‘The Black Beast’ for the interim heavyweight championship, so it would make sense if the promotion revisited that bout.

If Tuivasa wins, a bout with Gane would be another massive step up in competition for the Australian. Tuivasa's currently the No.11-ranked heavyweight, so a win over No.3-ranked Lewis would be significant. ‘Bam Bam’ would definitely put his name in the mix for a title shot or title-eliminator with a win.