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@KChimaev gave us a debut to remember!

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Watch the main card on @ESPN / E+. #UFCFightIsland1 pic.twitter.com/AUZvVbHZPn

— UFC (@ufc) July 16, 2020

Welterweights

Khamzat Chimaev (7-0) vs. Rhys McKee (10-2-1)
Odds: Chimaev (-1100), McKee (+700)

Well, it looks like the UFC is firmly in the Chimaev business. Chimaev was an impressive prospect even before his major league debut, but said Octagon debut went about as well as possible, as the Swede absolutely dominated John Phillips before putting him away for a second-round submission. Admittedly, Phillips was a particularly easy matchup for Chimaev assuming the prospect could get his game going, but living up to that ability is a victory in itself. This all happened on July 15, and the UFC liked what they saw enough that they've given Chimaev his wish for another fight before the month is up. So Chimaev attempts a UFC-record 10-day turnaround here, dropping down to his natural weight class of welterweight against newcomer McKee.

Northern Ireland's McKee is a solid prospect in his own right, well-rounded with a particular focus on a powerful muay Thai game. McKee's a much tougher matchup than Phillips, but he should still be outgunned here from a speed and athleticism standpoint, Chimaev should be able to get this to the mat and get his game rolling right out of the gates. There are obvious concerns with this quick turnaround for Chimaev, but assuming all goes well, the pick is for the Swede to score a decision victory.

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