Fight fans certainly had fun watching UFC 249, as the event proved that televised combat sports can be enjoyable even without a huge audience in attendance.

Fortunately, we don’t have to wait long for the next round of MMA action as UFC Fight Night 173 airs in just a couple of days.

Here are some of the fun fights that we’re looking forward to.

Anthony Smith vs. Glover Texeira

Anthony Smith has gone through a lot lately, considering that he dealt with a home invader that he had to physically subdue just over a month ago. He’s a tough nut to crack, though, and has a pretty tough chin – as proven in his title fight against Jon Jones last year.

It’s certainly no blemish on your record to lose to Jon Jones, who is my pick of the most talented fighter to ever grace the octagon. Smith has a solid 8-3 record in the UFC (33-14 overall) and has won seven of his last eight fights via submission or KO – including a rear-naked choke on Alexander Gustaffson. The main question for Smith will be whether or not he wan weather ring rust, though, as his last fight was almost a year ago.

His opponent, Glover Texeira, is getting older at age 40, but still poses a threat. Texeira has won four out of his last five fights, and three of those wins came by submission or KO. It’s been a long time since Texeira has been in a position to challenge for a UFC title, but he’s still ranked eigth in the official rankings. Getting a win over third-place Smith would be a boon on his cap.

I think Smith takes this one, and Texeira continues to be a gatekeeper for the division.

OTHER MAIN CARD FIGHTS:

Ben Rothwell (2.18) vs. Ovince Saint Preux (1.58)

Alexander Hernandez (1.92) vs. Drew Dober (1.75)

Ricky Simon (2.29) vs. Ray Borg (1.52)

Karl Roberson (2.21) vs. Marvin Vettori (1.56)