What’s next for the Irish fighters in the UFC

It seems to be a yearly occurrence at this stage that all the Irish fighters are waiting in the wings to be matched by the UFC. Apart from Conor McGregor who looks set to face Nate Diaz at UFC 200, every fighter from the emerald isle is currently without a match. So what better time to play Joe Silva and do a bit of fantasy matchmaking to see what might be next.

Joe Duffy vs. Jim Miller

Having lost to Dustin Poirier and Diego Sanchez respectively in their last outings, Duffy and Miller are both in need of a name opponent. For Miller, it would be a chance to cling on to the last embers of his prime and for Duffy it would be a great opportunity to reestablish himself as a future top ranked prospect.

Aisling Daly vs. Bec Rawlings

Similar to Aisling Daly’s win at UFC Dublin, having just beaten Seo Hee Ham in impressive fashion, Bec Rawlings has proven herself to be a borderline ranked strawweight. If they met, a win for either 115 pounder would push them towards the top 10.

Neil Seery vs. Ben N’Guyen

As two of the most exciting flyweights in the UFC today this has the makings of an absolute barnburned. And, with Seery always in shape after N’Guyen’s scheduled fight at UFC Brisbane fell through last weekend, it could happen sooner rather than later.

Artem Lobov vs. Mike Jackson

After two bad losses to kick off his career, many think Artem Lobov would be lucky to get another fight – including himself. But if he did, Mike Jackson, the man who faced the man who will face CM Punk, has made it know online that he is willing to step up.

Paddy Holohan vs. Jon Delos Reyes

Having put on an exciting fight with Neil Seery at UFC Dublin I’m sure Irish fans wouldn’t mind seeing one of their own face Guam fighter Jon Delos Reyes again. As For Holohan, he’s had a good break since losing to Louis Smolka and this would be a manageable task to get him back on track.

Norman Parke vs. Chad Laprise

Over the years the UFC have pitted TUF winners together many times and this would be another good opportunity to do that. With both men coming off of a loss it’s the sort of match Joe Silva could very well make for the summertime.