Sometimes the UFC makes strange choices when building a card. Brian Kelleher being the 2^nd fight of the night is kinda strange.

This card is lacking notable names, and “Boom” is someone the fans know. He has been on PPV main cards! And he is one of the toughest guys in the Bantamweight division.

Brian Kelleher is a 12 fight UFC veteran, winning 7 of those fights and has bounced up and down between 135 and 145 pounds. Boom is always a tough out – he fights with a heavy relentless pressure that can drown his opponents. He can win via knockout or submission, or he can grind out a decision with chain wrestling. He is the kind of well rounded, experienced fighter that can make for a perfect litmus test for a UFC newcomer.

Boom will be taking on a relative UFC newcomer in Saidyokub Kakhramonov. “SK” is 1-0 in the UFC, winning a short notice fight in his debut with a submission late in the 3^rd against a talented Trevin Jones. SKs previous win was for the CFFC Bantamweight title, winning via KO in the 2^nd round. And between those two fights – I think Saidyokub hurt his opponents with what felt like 50% of his punches. This guy carries some serious power. And he is not afraid to use it. He will walk forward and throw with intent. There is little doubt he will touch Brians chin, its just a matter of how bad. SK also comes from a grappling background, competing in Sambo and judo before beginning his MMA career. He will be capable in any position the fight can go.

Brian’s had issues beating the top guys in the UFC, but so few fighters actually get to that point. It is interesting the UFC is giving Saidyokub Kakhramonov the opportunity so early in his UFC to prove he is one of those guys. Saidyokub Kakhramonov could be interesting, he has lots of skills, and isn’t lacking that killer instinct. But Brian’s experience is going to mean a lot in there, and I do expect him to look like and feel like the bigger fighter. He is hard to finish, and so few guys can go at the pace Boom does over 15 minutes. I am thinking either SK makes a big statement with an early win, or Kelleher makes him quit late. Either way, I am really curious to see how this one ends up playing out. Should be fun either way.

This fight has been canceled! Longtime MMA vet and certified bad ass Kevin Croom has stepped in to take the fight on less than 3 days notice. And I am not mad about it. Kevin Croom is scrappy and he’s got some serious skills – and experience. Kevin Croom has been around the damn block. He’s been filling main cards on top tier pro MMA shows all around the world since 2009. Lots of weight is often put on octagon experience, but Croom has lots of legit high level pro experience, and that means a lot.
Shoutout to Kevin Croom.

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