1. Loser of Ciryl Gane vs. Jailton Almeida
Background:
Ciryl Gane and Jailton Almeida are set for a potential number-one contender bout at UFC Paris 2024. Gane, ranked 2nd, is a skilled striker with a record of 9-2 in the UFC. Almeida, ranked 7th, is a dominant grappler with a UFC record of 7-1, having rebounded from a loss to Curtis Blaydes with a first-round finish of Alexander Romanov at UFC 301.
Why this makes sense:
Facing the loser of this bout will be a significant test for Pavlovich. Almeida would challenge Pavlovich's grappling defense, while Gane would be a striking-heavy matchup. Either fight would help Pavlovich prove his versatility and resilience against top-tier competition.
- Type: Striker (Gane) / Grappler (Almeida)
- Ranking: Gane (2nd), Almeida (7th)
- Potential Timing: Early 2025 or late 2024
- Reason: High-stakes matchup with top-tier competition
2. Sergey Spivak
Background:
Sergey Spivak, the 9th-ranked heavyweight, is known for his strong wrestling. He is 7-4 in the UFC and last fought in 2023, when Ciryl Gane snapped his three-fight winning streak at UFC Paris.
Why this makes sense:
A matchup with Spivak would test Pavlovich’s ability to handle a wrestler of Spivak's caliber. Pavlovich would have the striking advantage, making this a compelling clash of styles. This fight would also be a logical step for Pavlovich to bounce back against a top-10 opponent.
- Type: Wrestler
- Ranking: 9th
- Potential Timing: Mid to late 2024
- Reason: Style clash, with Pavlovich’s striking vs. Spivak’s wrestling
3. Marcin Tybura
Background:
Marcin Tybura, ranked 8th, is 12-7 in the UFC. He recently rebounded from a first-round loss to Tom Aspinall with a first-round submission victory over Tai Tuivasa at UFC Vegas 88. Tybura has proven to be a well-rounded fighter with submission skills and striking ability.
Why this makes sense:
Tybura's well-rounded skill set would provide Pavlovich with a balanced challenge. Tybura's susceptibility to power strikers, as shown in his loss to Aspinall, could play into Pavlovich's strengths. A win over Tybura would help Pavlovich reestablish himself in the top echelon of the heavyweight division.
- Type: Balanced (Striker and Grappler)
- Ranking: 8th
- Potential Timing: Mid to late 2024
- Reason: Balanced test, with Tybura’s well-rounded game
- These potential matchups will help Pavlovich regain momentum and move closer to another title shot in the UFC's heavyweight division.
