UFC 291 is set to take place on Saturday, July 29, 2023, in Salt Lake City, Utah, United States. The Delta Center will host the much-awaited second battle between Dustin Poirier and Justin Gaethje. With the event right around the corner, here’s all you need to know about the commentators and crew that will take you through UFC 291.
Headlining the crew is the comeback of former UFC star Chael Sonnen. The 46-year-old will return after almost a year and a half to the post-fight show as an analyst as per MMA Junkie. His last appearance was on UFC 272 in March 2022.
Chael Sonnen is BACK on the desk
per @MikeBohn Chael will return at #UFC291 as a desk analyst pic.twitter.com/NlHnOIFKLy
— Spinnin Backfist (@SpinninBackfist) July 25, 2023
For the post-fight analysis, the three-time UFC title challenger, Sonnen, will be joined by former UFC title challenger Anthony Smith and noted MMA coach Din Thomas. The post-fight show will be hosted by longtime broadcaster Michael Eaves.
Jon Anik will be leading the cage-side commentary along with color commentators Joe Rogan and UFC Hall of Famer Daniel Cormier, as per MMA Junkie.
The most famous octagon announcer in history, Bruce Buffer, will take to the center pre and post-fight. On the other hand, Megan Olivi is set to be the roving reporter and she will conduct the pre and post-fight interviews backstage.
Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje 2 set to headline UFC 291
UFC is headed to Salt Lake City for the first time since UFC 278 in August 2022. This is also the promotion’s third visit to the Utah city. Some intense battles are set to be fought inside the Octagon on Saturday night.
We can’t wait for UFC 291 Poirier vs Gaethje 2 – It’s happening Saturday July 29! pic.twitter.com/lzmW564fEQ
— RJs The frozen cactus sports bar and restaurant (@mcclellandrich1) July 15, 2023
The main event is set to be a rematch between former interim UFC Lightweight Champions. Lafayette, Louisiana-born Poirier will take on Safford, Arizona-born Gaethje. The American fighters are also set to compete for the symbolic “BMF” (Baddest MotherF****r) title. The “BMF” title was vacated by Jorge Masvidal after he retired in April.
Poirier vs Gaethje first took place over five years ago on April 14, 2018. The pair fought at the UFC on Fox event in Glendale, Arizona. Poirier won that bout in a fourth-round TKO.
It’s #UFC291 Fight Week!! 🙌
🏆 Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje
👊 Jan Blachowicz vs Alex Pereira@stateofsport | #StateofSport pic.twitter.com/GRRPIeEKKs— UFC Europe (@UFCEurope) July 24, 2023
Other bouts include the light-heavyweight debut of Alex Pereira against former champion Jan Blachowicz. Former UFC Welterweight Championship challenger Stephen Thompson will go face-to-face with Michel Pereira. Another main card welterweight bout will see Micahel Chiesa fight Kevin Holland. Lastly, in the main card, Tony Ferguson will fight Bobby Green in the lightweight division.