1. Bogdan Guskov (19-3 MMA, 2-1 UFC)
- Current Rank: 12th in the light heavyweight division
- Recent Performance: Guskov has won two straight fights since losing his UFC debut to Volkan Oezdemir, with both victories earning him Performance of the Night bonuses.
- Why This Matchup Makes Sense: Guskov is a rising prospect with a knockout victory over Ryan Spann, who has also defeated Reyes. This matchup offers Reyes a chance to break into the top 10 and showcase his counter-striking against Guskov’s power. A victory over Guskov would significantly boost Reyes’s standing in the division.
2. Anthony Smith (38-19 MMA, 13-9 UFC)
- Current Rank: 10th in the light heavyweight division
- Recent Performance: Smith recently ended Vitor Petrino’s undefeated record with a first-round submission at UFC 302. Despite a recent slump, Smith remains a formidable opponent with a well-rounded skill set, particularly in grappling.
- Why This Matchup Makes Sense: Both Reyes and Smith are former title challengers looking to climb back into contention. Smith’s ground game poses a significant challenge, but Reyes’s anti-wrestling and striking skills give him a good chance. A win over Smith would elevate Reyes into the top 10 and demonstrate his ability to handle top-tier competition.
3. Winner of Johnny Walker (21-8(1) MMA, 7-5(1) UFC) vs. Volkan Oezdemir (19-7 MMA, 7-6 UFC)
- Current Rank: Walker is 7th while Oezdemir is 9th in the light heavyweight division
- Recent Performances: Walker recently had his unbeaten streak snapped by Magomed Ankalaev, while Oezdemir defeated Bogdan Guskov in his last fight.
- Why This Matchup Makes Sense: Reyes already holds a split-decision victory over Oezdemir, and a fresh matchup against Johnny Walker offers new excitement. The winner of Walker vs. Oezdemir will be a high-ranking opponent, and a victory over either fighter would propel Reyes into the top 5, setting him up for a potential title eliminator.
These potential matchups for Dominick Reyes provide a clear path back to the top of the light heavyweight division. Facing Guskov, Smith, or the winner of Walker vs. Oezdemir would give Reyes the opportunity to showcase his skills against highly ranked opponents and move closer to his goal of another title shot.
