SUMMARY
- UFC Vegas 86 is set to take place on February 10.
- In the co-main event, Dan Ige will be fighting against Andre Fili in a featherweight bout.
The UFC returns to the APEX for a second week in a row with UFC Vegas 86. With a fair few interesting fights lined up for the night, the card is sure to be a decent watch. As for this one, we’ll be focusing on the co-main event, Dan Ige vs. Andre Fili.
For the most part, the event is centered around Jack Hermansson and Joe Pyfer, who fight on the main card. Additionally, we also have a few more familiar names with the likes of Brad Tavares, Gregory Rodrigues, and a returning Michael Johnson. All things considered, this low-key fight night card might actually deliver with hopefully a few impressive performances from the fighters.
L.Murphy out. Dan Ige will now fight Andre Fili at #UFCVegas86 on February 10th. (first rep. @mma_kings) #UFC #MMA #UFCESPN #UFC2024 pic.twitter.com/bE3PSCZ9Bg
— Marcel Dorff 🇳🇱🇮🇩 (@BigMarcel24) January 19, 2024
Coming to the fight in focus, there is Dan Ige, who is coming off a loss against Bryce Mitchell. Although Ige has time and again proven his durability and ability to dish out damage, he has often failed to live up to expectations. Previously, Ige went on a three-fight losing skid before eventually course-correcting with two wins. As such, in order to prevent his losses from snowballing, the fight becomes a must-win for the 32-year-old.
On the other hand, we have Andre Fili, who, just like Joe Pyfer, is fighting a mainstay to try and break into the rankings. Although many may not be aware, Fili has had numerous chances to break into the rankings, only to come up short. Having fought the likes of Max Holloway, Yair Rodriguez, Calvin Kattar, and more, he has certainly been around the block. However, he needs to take his chances well, especially considering his age.
UFC Vegas 86: Dan Ige vs Andre Fili stats
Stats | Dan Ige | Andre Fili |
Wins | 17 | 23 |
Losses | 7 | 10 |
Height | 5 ft 6 in | 5 ft 9 in |
Division | Featherweight | Featherweight |
Reach | 70 in | 74 in |
Age | 35 | 28 |
Dan Ige vs Andre Fili: Fight breakdown and prediction
For the most part, a lot of people favor Andre Fili coming into this matchup. Despite both fighters having a fairly inconsistent run of form, many believe that Fili is still riding high from his stellar knockout win over Lucas Almeida at UFC 296. Interestingly, he is also stepping in to replace Lerone Murphy for the fight.
With that said, ‘Touchy‘ possesses a clear height and reach advantage for this fight. Along with his solid striking skills, it has many people excited for the matchup. Owing to a surprisingly tenured career, fans believe that Andre has finally learned from his mistakes in the past, and will use it to make a top-15 push. Now 33, there is no time like now for the Team Alpha Male athlete to get the job done.
On the other side, there is the ever-durable Dan Ige. Despite his recent record, his reputation as a solid fighter remains intact. However, he will need to be on his A-game in order to turn away yet another contender wanting to break into the rankings. All things considered, ‘50K‘ has dealt with opponents like Fili before. As such, his best chance would be to catch the timing or take his opponent down.
Surprisingly, Ige is being overlooked by many ahead of this fight. Whilst he has come up short against the big dogs, Dan has always defended his ranking well. Moreover, many would consider him to be the more well-rounded fighter in the matchup. However, he will need to figure out a way to deny the high-flying Fili the opportunity to get going. All things considered, this one could easily go either way.