Middleweight

Here’s where things get interesting… but only for the simple fact that Anderson Silva could potentially retire in the near future; he has after all accomplished everything any single fighter could hope for, setting numerous records while under tenure with the UFC. Chael Sonnen remains his greatest challenge, and before long, we’ll get to see how Sonnen fairs in a rematch; I’m expecting a different fight this time around, however, ultimately, I see the same result.

Light Heavyweight

Jon Jones has cemented himself as the number one 205 pounder on the planet. He’s pummeled a series of highly skilled former champions in his last few outings, and I see that run of success continuing. An upcoming collision with arch nemesis Rashad Evans looms, which could be interesting given Rashad’s wrestling pedigree, but ultimately, I don’t see him effectively closing the distance, which will allow “Bones” to dictate the pace. Outside of Evans, Dan Henderson looks to be the only remaining challenge for Jones, and as incredible as Henderson is, I just don’t see him landing the feared “H Bomb” on the champion.

Heavyweight

And here is where I run into prediction troubles. I’m a firm believer that Junior dos Santos is the best heavyweight competing under the UFC banner today. However, with Josh Barnett and Daniel Cormier potentially migrating to the UFC in the near future, it’s difficult to make any concrete predictions. Incorporate the fact that dos Santos must next topple the extremely versatile striker and multi-sport champion, Alistair Overeem in just a few months and the future questionable. Toss about names like Cain Velasquez and Fabricio Werdum, and one must quickly realize that Junior is stuck defending the heavyweight belt as a time in which genuine talent clogs the division. It’s going to be a tough haul, but I believe this humble Brazilian has the tools to keep a firm hold on that belt for some time.

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