1. Jared Cannonier (#7 Ranked Middleweight)
Jared Cannonier is a dangerous opponent in the UFC Middleweight division known for his knockout power and toughness. He sits at #7 in the middleweight rankings and has had an up-and-down run in his last five fights, showing he's still a force to be reckoned with. Cannonier’s experience and resilience make him a challenging opponent for Allen, especially after Allen’s recent defeat.
Cannonier's Last 5 Fights:
- Loss vs. Caio Borralho (Decision, UFC on ESPN, August 24, 2024)
- Loss vs. Nassourdine Imavov (TKO, UFC on ESPN, June 8, 2024)
- Win vs. Marvin Vettori (Decision, UFC on ESPN, June 17, 2023)
- Win vs. Sean Strickland (Split Decision, UFC Fight Night, December 17, 2022)
- Loss vs. Israel Adesanya (Decision, UFC 276, July 2, 2022)
Cannonier’s recent losses may make him eager for a comeback, and a fight with Allen could be a stepping stone for both fighters to reclaim momentum. Cannonier’s powerful striking and experience in five-round fights will test Allen’s durability and composure.
2. Marvin Vettori (#6 Ranked Middleweight)
Marvin Vettori, currently ranked #6 in the UFC Middleweight division, is a durable and well-rounded fighter known for his grappling and cardio. Vettori has gone 3-2 in his last five outings, with recent losses to top-ranked opponents. Vettori’s relentless pressure and ground skills could pose a challenge for Allen, especially since Allen has a similar style with his strong submission game.
Vettori's Last 5 Fights:
- Loss vs. Jared Cannonier (Decision, UFC on ESPN, June 17, 2023)
- Win vs. Roman Dolidze (Decision, UFC 286, March 18, 2023)
- Loss vs. Robert Whittaker (Decision, UFC Fight Night, September 3, 2022)
- Win vs. Paulo Costa (Decision, UFC Fight Night, October 23, 2021)
- Loss vs. Israel Adesanya (Decision, UFC 263, June 12, 2021, UFC Middleweight Championship)
A fight with Vettori could be a great opportunity for Allen to prove himself against a top-tier grappler, while Vettori would look to reestablish himself as a legitimate title contender after his recent loss to Cannonier.
3. Paulo Costa (#9 Ranked Middleweight)
Paulo Costa, the #9 ranked middleweight, is another exciting option for Brendan Allen’s next fight. Known for his aggressive style and knockout power, Costa has struggled recently, losing his last two fights to Sean Strickland and Robert Whittaker. However, Costa remains one of the most dangerous strikers in the division, and a matchup with Allen would pit his explosive power against Allen’s grappling.
Costa's Last 5 Fights:
- Loss vs. Sean Strickland (Decision, UFC 302, June 1, 2024)
- Loss vs. Robert Whittaker (Decision, UFC 298, February 17, 2024)
- Win vs. Luke Rockhold (Decision, UFC 278, August 20, 2022)
- Loss vs. Marvin Vettori (Decision, UFC Fight Night, October 23, 2021)
- Loss vs. Israel Adesanya (TKO, UFC 253, September 27, 2020, UFC Middleweight Championship)
A fight against Costa would be a significant test of Allen’s chin and stand-up defense. Costa’s striking power and Allen’s submission prowess could make for a thrilling stylistic clash.
