Vettori vs. Dolidze 2: UFC Vegas 104 Rematch Has Fans Buzzing With Anticipation

Fight fans, get ready! The octagon is about to heat up again as Marvin “The Italian Dream” Vettori and Roman Dolidze are set to lock horns in a highly anticipated rematch at UFC Vegas 104. This middleweight clash promises to deliver the same intensity and technical brilliance that had us all on the edge of our seats during their first encounter.

Why This Rematch Matters in the Middleweight Division

When I first heard about this booking, I couldn’t help but smile. The middleweight division has been in need of clarity, and this fight could be exactly what sorts out the pecking order in the 185-pound weight class.

Vettori, currently ranked #9, brings his relentless pressure and iron chin back to the cage after his split decision win over Brendan Allen. The Italian has been hovering around the top of the division for years now, and another impressive win could put him right back into title contention.

Dolidze, meanwhile, is looking to bounce back after a tough loss to Nassourdine Imavov. The Georgian fighter’s grappling prowess and surprising power make him a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.

Breaking Down Their First Fight

For those who might have missed their first encounter, let me paint the picture. These two middleweight contenders put on a technical chess match that demonstrated the highest level of MMA. Vettori’s boxing and pressure met Dolidze’s crafty grappling in a back-and-forth affair that had fans split on who deserved the victory.

The rematch offers both fighters a chance to make adjustments and leave no doubt this time around.

Tale of the Tape: Vettori vs. Dolidze

What’s at Stake for Both Fighters

This isn’t just another fight night matchup. For Vettori, a win here could potentially set him up for a bout against a top-5 opponent. Having already faced champion Dricus Du Plessis earlier in his career, The Italian Dream has been vocal about wanting another crack at the belt.

Dolidze, at 36 years old, knows his championship window won’t stay open forever. A decisive win over a perennial contender like Vettori would instantly revitalize his title aspirations and prove his worth in the increasingly competitive middleweight landscape.

Fan Reactions and Predictions

The announcement has already sent ripples through the MMA community. I’ve seen everything from predictions of a dominant Vettori wrestling display to confident calls for a Dolidze submission victory. The betting lines will likely be close on this one, reflecting just how evenly matched these two warriors are.

One thing’s for certain – styles make fights, and these two contrasting approaches should create another compelling battle inside the UFC Apex.

How to Watch UFC Vegas 104

UFC Vegas 104 is expected to stream live on ESPN+ from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas. While the full card is still being assembled, this middleweight clash is likely to feature prominently, possibly even as the co-main or main event depending on how the rest of the card shapes up.

For die-hard fight fans like us, this is absolutely a can’t-miss event that will have significant implications for the division’s rankings.

The Bottom Line

When the cage door closes at UFC Vegas 104, we’re in for a treat. Vettori’s relentless pressure against Dolidze’s technical grappling and surprising power is a recipe for fireworks. I’m personally clearing my schedule for this one, and I suggest you do the same.

Who do you think takes the rematch? Will Vettori’s pressure prove too much, or will Dolidze’s grappling be the difference-maker? Drop your predictions in the comments below!

Stay tuned for more updates on the complete UFC Vegas 104 card and official fight date as they become available.

Source: Essentially Sports