Jared Cannonier is set to defend his status among the UFC middleweight elite against up-and-coming contender Caio Borralho in the main event of UFC Fight Night in Las Vegas this Saturday. This matchup features a clash between experienced veteran Cannonier and the promising Borralho at 185 pounds.
Cannonier, holding a record of 17 wins and 7 losses, is looking for redemption following a controversial stoppage loss to fellow contender Nassourdine Imavov. Heading into the fourth round of that fight, Cannonier was leading on two judges’ scorecards before being knocked down by strikes. While he attempted to defend himself during the onslaught, some believe the intervention by referee Jason Herzog was premature. With no immediate rematch against Imavov in sight, Cannonier accepted the fight against Borralho on short notice, eager to stay active.
“I didn’t want a long layoff and Nassourdine had already been booked, so I thought the idea of a rematch was gone with the wind,” Cannonier explained. “I’m not trying to sit around and wait. If they give me a name, I’m going to say yes. I’ll fight whoever. It’s a relief to fight without the pressure of trying to reach the top.”
Despite his aspirations to become a champion, Cannonier acknowledges that the recent pressures have lessened, allowing him to focus more on his performance in the octagon.
Borralho, boasting a record of 16-1, is a key member of the Fighting Nerds team and has been making notable strides in the UFC. He and his teammates, including fellow “Contender Series” alums Jean Silva and Carlos Prates, have achieved a combined 7-0 record in the organization this year and remain undefeated in their last 37 fights. Borralho’s impressive performance, including a knockout victory over Paul Craig, has earned him this main event opportunity. With a background in industrial chemistry, Borralho applies a methodical and analytical approach to his fighting style.
“I see things with numbers and statistics,” Borralho discussed. “It helps me figure things out quickly. My movement and youth will be an advantage; Cannonier is not the same fighter he was five years ago. He started slowing down during the Imavov fight, making mistakes that I can exploit.”
The UFC Fight Night card offers additional exciting matchups, including veteran strawweight Angela Hill against rising contender Tabatha Ricci, and welterweight Neil Magny facing off with undefeated prospect Michael Morales. The middleweight opener features Edmen Shahbazyan taking on Gerald Meerschaert.
Here are the latest odds for the fight card:
UFC Fight Night card, odds
Favorite
Underdog
Caio Borralho -125
Jared Cannonier -105
Tabatha Ricci -290
Angela Hill +205
Ryan Loder -120
Robert Valentin Frey -110
Michael Morales -285
Neil Magny +200
Edmen Shahbazyan -225
Gerald Meerschaert +165
UFC Fight Night viewing information:
Date: Aug. 24 | Start time: 10 p.m. ET (main card)
Location: UFC Apex — Las Vegas
TV channel: ESPN+
Prediction for Cannonier vs. Borralho: A quick finish is unlikely, as both fighters are known for their durability and sound defense. Cannonier possesses substantial power but needs to rely on his experience against a younger opponent. The key to Borralho’s success will be his grappling skills, which could help create openings against Cannonier. Ultimately, the fight is expected to be competitive, but Borralho may edge out a decision or late stoppage victory. Borralho via Unanimous Decision.