Chris Weidman is no stranger to adversity. The former Middleweight Champion, once hailed as the man who toppled Anderson Silva and held the UFC title for an impressive 889 days, has had his share of ups and downs in his MMA career. Now, at UFC 310: Pantoja vs. Asakura, the 40-year-old fighter makes yet another return to the Octagon, this time against Eryk Anders, in what promises to be a pivotal matchup for both men.
The Build-Up: Weidman’s Journey Back to Fighting Form
Weidman’s story is one of resilience and determination. After a horrific leg break against Uriah Hall in 2021, many doubted whether “The All-American” would ever step back into the cage. But after two years of grueling rehab, documented in the ESPN film The Return, he silenced the skeptics by returning to action in 2023. While his comeback fight against Brad Tavares didn’t go as planned, Weidman rebounded with a hard-fought victory over Bruno Silva earlier this year, proving he still has plenty of fight left in him.
Eryk Anders, meanwhile, is a dangerous opponent who brings his own brand of toughness to the Octagon. A former college football star turned MMA fighter, Anders has consistently tested himself against top-tier competition. With his knockout power and relentless pressure, Anders sees this fight as an opportunity to secure a significant win against a former champion.
What’s at Stake?
For Weidman, this fight is about more than just victory—it’s about legacy. With retirement looming on the horizon, the Long Island native is determined to leave the sport on his terms, ideally with a few more marquee wins under his belt. His performance against Anders could determine whether he gets one last shot at a top contender or rides off into the sunset.
For Anders, the stakes are equally high. A victory over a fighter of Weidman’s caliber would not only elevate his profile but also position him for bigger opportunities in the middleweight division. Known for his durability and knockout power, Anders will look to exploit any vulnerabilities Weidman may show after years of wear and tear.
What to Expect
Weidman’s grappling and fight IQ remain among the best in the division, but Anders will likely test his striking and chin early. The key for Weidman will be to dictate the pace with his wrestling and avoid getting into prolonged striking exchanges. Anders, on the other hand, will look to land heavy shots and keep the fight standing.
Weidman’s mental and physical state will be under the microscope. While his leg injury is behind him, the psychological toll of such an ordeal is hard to ignore. However, his last fight showed glimpses of his former self, particularly his ability to mix striking and grappling seamlessly.
From dethroning Anderson Silva to overcoming personal and physical challenges, Chris Weidman's story is one of perseverance. As he steps into the Octagon once again, fans can expect a performance fueled by heart, grit, and an undying love for the sport.
Catch all the action live on PPV, with prelims starting at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT and the main card kicking off at 10 PM ET/7 PM PT.