Twin title bouts and Chandler-Ferguson's road to redemption: breaking down UFC 274

The UFC returns this weekend with its latest numbered event, when UFC 274 boasts two title bouts and several other intriguing matchups. Set for the Footprint centre in Phoenix, Arizona, we look at some of the must-watch fights that take place early on Sunday in the UAE.

Charles Oliveira (c) v Justin Gaethje (lightweight)

The UFC delivers yet another champion versus No 1-ranked challenger, as Oliveira makes the second defence of the title he won in spectacular fashion last year.

The Brazilian, who boasts the most finishes (18) and the most submission victories (15) in the promotion’s history, rides a 10-fight win streak (he is 32-8 overall in professional MMA). Oliveira's performances against Michael Chandler – to capture the crown – and then to keep hold of it in December against Dustin Poirier each featured strong tests of character.

To his immense credit, Oliveira came through both. In Gaethje, he faces one of the UFC’s most exciting fighters, evidenced by the 2021 fight of the year he shared with Chandler only in November. The American (24-3) is a former interim champion who has fought for the undisputed belt once before – a submission defeat to then-champion Khabib Nurmagomedov in Abu Dhabi in late 2020. Billed as the submission expert against the supreme striker, something has to give.

Oliveira, though, has displayed a relatively newfound resolve to climb to the division’s summit. Gaethje will presumably need to again live up to his “The Highlight” moniker.

Justin Gaethje lands a punch during his victory over Michael Chandler at UFC 268 in New York on November 6, 2021. AFP

Rose Namajunas (c) v Carla Esparza (women's strawweight)

Another title defence, another rematch for Namajunas. The champion, coming off a