The 2022 FIFA World Cup kicks off today in Qatar. The opening game will see the hosts take on Ecuador in group A. Given the worldwide support that the World Cup gets, we thought we would ask a handful of UFC fighters who they think will win the tournament.
Marina Rodriguez
Brazilian strawweight, Marina Rodriguez, is on a mission to secure UFC gold. The 35-year-old has been with the promotion since 2018 and has only lost twice since then. Most recently, she was defeated by fellow Brazilian Amanda Lemos at UFC Vegas 64.
Marina Rodriguez Prediction: Brazil
Paddy Pimblett
Paddy “The Baddy” Pimblett has definitely shaken things up since his UFC debut in September 2021. The Scouser is undefeated since his introduction and continues to impress inside and outside of the cage. He takes on Jared Gordon at UFC 282 on December 10th, hoping to make it 3-0 in 2022.
Paddy Pimblett Prediction: Argentina
Jack Shore
“Tank” has been fighting with the promotion since 2019, with a pro record that stands at 16-1. His only defeat came at the hands of Ricky Simon in his last outing in New York. The Welshman is currently recovering from an injury but is expected to return in the new year.
Jack Shore Prediction: Wales
Victor Henry
The 35-year-old made his debut at the start of the year when he beat Raoni Barcelos via decision. “La Mangosta’s” last outing ended in a defeat, however. A decision defeat against Raphael Assuncao in October.
Victor Henry Prediction: Mexico
Paul Craig
UFC veteran Paul Craig has always brought exciting an energy to the UFC octagon. Making his debut in 2016, the Scotsman has gone 8-4-1 since. “Bearjaw” hopes to bounce back after his UFC London defeat in July with another statement win at UFC 283 in Brazil against Johnny Walker.
Paul Craig Prediction: France
Jack Della Maddalena
Jack Della Maddalena has had an excellent first year with the UFC. The Australian got his third victory of the year last night with yet another TKO victory, this time over Danny Roberts. That win set up a likely inclusion on the UFC 284 card in Perth, Australia.
Jack Della Maddalena Prediction: Australia
Miranda Maverick
25-year-old, Miranda Maverick, has always brought it whenever she’s entered the octagon. After making her debut when she was just 23, the American is undefeated in 2022, with back-to-back wins.
Miranda Maverick Prediction: Argentina
Matt Frevola
The “Steamrolla” got the biggest win of his career at UFC 281 last weekend when he knocked out the undefeated prospect, Ottman Azaitar. His win at MSG meant he extended his UFC record to 4-3-1. The energetic New Yorker won’t go out without a fight.
Matt Frevola Prediction: United States
Michal Figlak
The Polish born fighter made his debut on short notice at UFC Paris in September. The former Cage Warriors contender was defeated via decision, but was able to show his heart and determination in his fast-paced debut.
Michal Figlak Prediction: England
Damon Jackson
Damon Jackson has been nothing short of brilliant since making his UFC debut in 2020. “The Leech” has fought six times under UFC banners and only been defeated once. His most recent outing ended in a TKO victory against Pat Sabatini. It’s just been confirmed he will take on Dan Ige in the new year.
Damon Jackson Prediction: United States
Stevie Ray
Former UFC fighter, Stevie Ray, will compete for the $1,000,000 prize at the PFL championships next week. The Scottish veteran picked up two wins against MMA legend, Anthony Pettis, in 2022.
Stevie Ray Prediction: Brazil/Netherlands
What do you make of the UFC fighters predictions? Who do you think will win the tournament? Let us know!
Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
