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Welcome to The Weekly Takedown, Sports Illustrated’s in-depth look at MMA. Every week, this column offers insight and information on the most noteworthy stories in the fight world.
If not for his own recklessness, Petr Yan would likely be the one defending the bantamweight title this Saturday in Abu Dhabi. Instead, Yan competes against Sean O’Malley at UFC 280. The winner will be next in line for a crack at the belt, which reigning champion Aljamain Sterling defends on the very same card against T.J. Dillashaw.
