Nathaniel Wood: The hometown hero?

With UFC London fast approaching, It’s safe to say fans are not just excited to see the worlds biggest promotion return to the UK, but a few fan favourites also make their return. With the likes of Paddy Pimblett and Molly McCann on the card, a fighter hailing from the hometown of London is a necessity. So who better to represent than Nathaniel Wood.

Fight fans seem in awe when watching his fights. His grit and determination, fight to the finish style is more than entertaining for the crowds. These traits keep him at the forefront of fans minds when it comes to potential bouts being made in the division.

Currently hosting a 17-5 record, 4 of which going the distance and 14 coming by way of finish. This clearly shows that he never came to play, only to compete at the highest level and not stop until he achieves his goal. The only problem which seems apparent is the fact that his last fight was in 2020, which was a hard fought, decision loss to Casey Kenney at UFC 254.

The man who stands in the way of his dream homecoming. Is a very worthy opponent by the name of Liudvik Sholinian. A tough competitor hailing from Ukraine. An ultimate fighter alumni. With an impressive record of 9-2. Liudvik has also started to prove himself in the UFC, following an unfortunate loss to Jack Shore. No fan should hold that loss over him though as Jack Shores performance was sublime! Sholinian also won 4 of his last 5 fights before joining the UFC and has never been finished in the cage.

Prediction

This fight could play out a number of ways. With both fighters showing that they can win a fight before and after the final Bell. Nathaniel Wood not fighting since 2020 could be a problem for him if you factor in ring rust but with Sholinian being an extreme take down threat, the question is can he survive Wood’s pressure? As Nathaniel seems more than capable of keeping him on his back foot the whole time with aggressive footwork. So I do expect this fight to depend on surely who starts to back off first. With the aggressor setting the tone of the bout. With the fans being the real winners by getting to watch this match-up come into play.

How do you think this fight will play out? Be sure to let us know in the comments below!