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.
Tai Tuivasa returns to the cage Saturday, seeking to end the year on a victorious note in a bout against heavyweight surging Sergei Pavlovich.
This is Tuivasa’s third fight of the year and fourth since last December. He will attempt to reignite his winning ways after Ciryl Gane broke his five-fight win streak in September. Now comes Tuivasa’s chance to end a streak, as Pavlovich (16-1) has won his last four.