As the UFC returns to Nashville next weekend, all eyes will be on the octagon as fighters prepare to deliver electrifying performances. Among the stars is Calvin Kattar, a featherweight veteran known for his devastating knockout power, who will look to end a five-year drought of finishes when he faces Steve Garcia.
The event, scheduled between the UFC 317 and UFC 318 pay-per-views, promises to be a thrilling night, with Derrick Lewis headlining against Tallison Teixeira. However, Kattar’s return is particularly noteworthy, as fans recall his memorable 2020 knockout of Jeremy Stephens, a moment that stands out in UFC history.
Calvin Kattar’s Memorable 2020 Knockout
In May 2020, during UFC 249, Calvin Kattar delivered a performance that left a lasting impression. Known as ‘The Boston Finisher,’ Kattar faced Jeremy Stephens and executed a perfectly timed elbow midway through the second round. This move not only floored Stephens but also showcased Kattar’s precision and power.
Following the initial strike, Kattar capitalized on his advantage, delivering another brutal elbow on the ground, forcing referee Jason Herzog to intervene. The fight was a testament to Kattar’s skill and earned him a place among the elite finishers in the sport, alongside names like Francis Ngannou and Justin Gaethje.
“Calvin Kattar’s knockout of Jeremy Stephens was a masterclass in timing and technique,” said MMA analyst John Gooden. “It’s the kind of finish that fighters dream of delivering.”
The Road to UFC Nashville
As Kattar prepares to step back into the cage, he aims to recapture the form that made him a feared opponent. Despite not having secured a finish in his last seven fights, the 37-year-old is determined to prove that he still possesses the knockout power that once thrilled fans and fighters alike.
Meanwhile, Derrick Lewis, known as ‘The Black Beast,’ will also be looking to add another knockout to his record. The Nashville event serves as a crucial platform for both fighters to demonstrate their prowess and potentially set the stage for future title contention.
The Impact of Kattar’s Return
Kattar’s return to form could have significant implications for the featherweight division. A victory over Garcia would not only end his finishing drought but also position him as a formidable contender once again. The fight is a pivotal moment for Kattar, who seeks to remind fans and competitors of his capabilities.
“Every fight is an opportunity to show what you’re made of,” Kattar stated in a recent interview. “I’m ready to put on a show for the Nashville crowd.”
Jeremy Stephens’ Journey Post-Knockout
Since his defeat to Kattar, Jeremy Stephens has found success in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC), where he has amassed a 3-0 record. His performance in the BKFC has caught the attention of notable figures, including Conor McGregor, who mentioned Stephens as a potential opponent in future bare-knuckle bouts.
Stephens’ transition to BKFC highlights the diverse paths fighters can take after their UFC careers, showcasing resilience and adaptability in the face of setbacks.
Looking Ahead
As UFC Nashville approaches, the anticipation builds for what promises to be an action-packed event. With fighters like Kattar and Lewis ready to deliver memorable performances, fans can expect a night of thrilling competition and potentially historic moments.
The outcomes of these fights could reshape the landscape of their respective divisions, offering new opportunities and challenges for those involved. As the octagon lights up in Nashville, the fighters will aim to leave a lasting legacy, much like Kattar’s unforgettable elbow knockout in 2020.
