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UFC 311: Makhachev vs. Tsarukyan 2 - Diego Ferreira Set to Take On Grant Dawson

On January 18, 2025, at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, UFC 311 will showcase a stacked card headlined by the lightweight title rematch between Islam Makhachev and Arman Tsarukyan. Among the prelim highlights is an exciting lightweight clash between Brazil’s Diego Ferreira and the dynamic Grant Dawson.

 

Fighter Profiles

Diego Ferreira

Diego Ferreira (19-5-0), fighting out of Fortis MMA, is a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience against elite competition. Known for his aggressive style and well-rounded skill set, Ferreira’s striking power and elite Brazilian jiu-jitsu make him a constant threat in the lightweight division. Coming off two knockout wins, including a stunning finish against Mateusz Rębecki, Ferreira is eager to continue his resurgence and remind fans why he remains a top-tier fighter.

Grant Dawson

Grant "KGD" Dawson (22-2-1), representing American Top Team, has built a reputation as a versatile fighter with a strong grappling base. With 13 submission victories and a high fight IQ, Dawson excels in grinding out opponents and controlling the pace of fights. After rebounding from a knockout loss with wins over Joe Solecki and Rafa Garcia, Dawson looks to maintain his momentum in this pivotal matchup.

Strengths and Tactics

Diego Ferreira

• Striking Power: Ferreira has shown improved striking, with five TKO/KO wins in his career.
• Submission Game: An accomplished Brazilian jiu-jitsu practitioner, Ferreira is lethal on the mat.
• Experience: Having faced top-tier opponents like Dustin Poirier and Beneil Dariush, Ferreira is no stranger to high-stakes bouts.

Grant Dawson

• Grappling Dominance: Dawson uses his wrestling and submissions to dictate the fight’s flow.
• Cardio: Known for his ability to push the pace, Dawson thrives in grinding battles.
• Adaptability: His ability to switch stances and mix in striking makes him unpredictable.

What to Watch For

This fight will likely hinge on who can impose their game plan. Ferreira will aim to keep the fight standing, where his power and precision can shine. Dawson, on the other hand, will look to close the distance and take the fight to the ground, where he can utilize his grappling to neutralize Ferreira’s striking and hunt for submissions.

 

Prediction