Matches to make for Israel Adesanya, Carla Esparza, and other UFC 281 losers

The next fights to make for Israel Adesanya, Carla Esparza, and other UFC 281 losers.

While UFC 281 was a delight for fans, it was an even bigger night for those who left victorious. Alex Pereira and Zhang Weili became world champions, Dustin Poirier won the fight of the night, and Dan Hooker showed his experience by defeating a younger prospect.

However, none of these wins came easy. Every fighter that stood opposite of the winners put up a fight and gave respectable performances. What comes next for these fighters remains in the hands of the UFC matchmakers, but in the meantime, here are potential next fights for those who were defeated on Saturday.

What comes next for UFC 281 losers?

Claudio Puelles vs. Matt Frevola

Claudio Puelles made a big jump in competition fighting Dan Hooker in his first pay-per-view main card appearance. However, it became evident that it was too soon for him to fight a ranked competitor. A fight against fellow prospect Matt Frevola, who scored a first-round knockout against Ottman Azaitar in the prelims would make a good match to climb the rankings in one of the UFC’s marquee divisions.

Michael Chandler vs. Conor McGregor

Win or lose, Michael Chandler proved to be the most entertaining lightweight in the UFC. Since joining the organization, he has fought only the best that the UFC has to offer. Post-UFC 281, Chandler expressed his interest in fighting Conor McGregor, should the Irishman return as a lightweight. McGregor also expressed his interest in fighting Chandler after Iron Mike knocked out Tony Ferguson back in May. No better way for McGregor to return than to fight one of the most explosive fighters on the roster. At the same time, Chandler deserves the massive payday. This has fireworks written all over it.

Carla Esparza vs. Amanda Lemos

Carla Esparza is very deserving of a rematch against Zhang Weili. But on the off chance that the UFC books Zhang vs. Rose Namajunas for a third time, there are deserving opponents for Esparza in the division. The main one … No. 3 strawweight Amanda Lemos who won seven of her last eight bouts. Esparza’s wrestling and jiu-jitsu vs Lemos’ standup sound like a good fight.

Israel Adesanya vs. Alex Pereira 2

Israel Adesanya was about three minutes away from leaving the Maddison Square Garden with another title defense under his belt. However, Alex Pereira’s power took over and as a result, Adesanya lost to Poatan for the third time. Despite the loss, Adesnya gave one of the best performances in his UFC career. The fight itself kept everybody on their feet, and the Last Stylebender deserves a chance to redeem himself after an unlucky ending to an otherwise great performance.