Davey Grant vs. Da’Mon Blackshear: UFC Abu Dhabi Prelims Preview – Can the Veteran Defy the Odds Again?

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Davey Grant Continues to Defy Age and Odds in UFC Bantamweight Division

Davey Grant (16-7, 7-6 UFC), the gritty British bantamweight, is proving that age is just a number as he continues to compete at a high level in one of the UFC’s most talent-rich divisions. At 38 years old and approaching 40, Grant has won three of his last four fights, showcasing his durability, technical striking, and underrated grappling skills.

This weekend at UFC Abu Dhabi, Grant faces another tough challenge in rising contender Da’Mon Blackshear (17-7-1, 5-3-1 UFC), who enters as a -270 betting favorite. But if history is any indication, Grant thrives as an underdog, making this a must-watch prelim bout.

Breaking Down Davey Grant’s Fighting Style

Nicknamed “Dangerous” for a reason, Grant has built a reputation as a tough out for any up-and-coming striker. His well-rounded game and iron chin have allowed him to hang with some of the division’s best, including Marlon Vera, Adrian Yanez, and Daniel Marcos. Even in losses, Grant forces opponents into his preferred pace—a methodical, mid-tempo kickboxing battle.

Grant’s Strengths:

• Durable and Experienced – Few fighters in the division have faced as many elite opponents.
• Technical Striking – While not a knockout artist, Grant’s crisp boxing and leg kicks make him a problem on the feet.
• Underrated Grappling – Though known for his stand-up, Grant is no slouch on the ground, with solid takedown defense and scrambling ability.

However, injuries have slowed him in recent years, and at 38, his reflexes may not be what they once were. Still, his fight IQ and toughness keep him competitive against younger, faster opponents.

Da’Mon Blackshear: A Grappling Threat with Explosive Potential

Blackshear, 29, represents a different kind of challenge for Grant. Unlike Grant’s recent opponents—who were primarily strikers—Blackshear is a grappling-heavy fighter with explosive submissions.

Blackshear’s Strengths:

• Elite Grappling – His aggressive submission hunting led to a twister finish against Jose Johnson, one of the rarest moves in UFC history.
• Athleticism – With a lanky frame and strong wrestling, he can control fights on the ground.
• Scrambling Ability – Unlike traditional grapplers who prefer top control, Blackshear thrives in chaotic transitions, hunting for back takes and chokes.

However, his striking remains a weakness. Fighters like Mario Bautista and Montel Jackson have exploited his defensive gaps, with Jackson knocking him out in just 18 seconds. If Grant can keep the fight standing, he could find success.

Fight Prediction: Will Davey Grant Pull Off Another Upset?

The odds favor Blackshear (-270), but Grant’s experience and toughness make this closer than the betting line suggests.

Key Factors to Watch:

1. Can Grant Keep It Standing? – If Blackshear gets takedowns early, he could dominate on the ground.
2. Blackshear’s Submissions vs. Grant’s Defense – Grant is hard to submit, but Blackshear’s creativity could catch him.
3. Striking Exchanges – If Grant lands clean counters, he could sway the judges.

Final Prediction:

While Grant has the skills to make it competitive, Blackshear’s grappling should be the difference. Expect him to grind out a decision win, controlling at least two rounds with takedowns and submission threats.

Why This Fight Matters for Davey Grant’s UFC Future

At 38, Grant is in the twilight of his career, but a win here could extend his UFC tenure. If he beats Blackshear, he could get another ranked opponent. A loss, however, might push him further down the bantamweight ladder.

For Blackshear, a victory solidifies his place as a rising contender in a stacked division.

Don’t Miss This UFC Abu Dhabi Prelim Clash

This Grant vs. Blackshear matchup promises fireworks, whether it’s a striking battle or a grappling war. Tune in to see if Davey Grant can defy the odds once again or if Da’Mon Blackshear’s ground game proves too much.

Fight Details:

• Event: UFC Abu Dhabi (Prelims)
• Weight Class: Bantamweight (135 lbs)
• Odds: Blackshear (-270) | Grant (+210)

Will the veteran pull off another upset, or will the rising star prove too much? One thing’s for sure—this is a must-watch fight for MMA fans.