UFC Lincoln predictions

It’s time for James Vick to back up his tall tales.

“The Texecutioner” has been telling everyone that he’s ready for a big-name opponent and a main-event opportunity for some time now, and he got just that with a headlining bout at UFC Lincolnagainst fan-favorite slugger Justin Gaethje. Now all he has to do is put away one of the most dangerous fighters in the lightweight division. On the other side, Gaethje has to prove that he’s willing to evolve and possibly change his style after suffering the first two losses of his career.

In the featherweight co-main event, Andre Fili looks to add to the woes of Michael Johnson, who is currently on a career-worst three-fight skid.

Also featured on the main card, Cortney Casey and Angela Hill jockey for a top-10 spot in the increasingly crowded strawweight division, veteran welterweight Jake Ellenberger looks to get back on track when he fights Bryan Barberena, flyweight contenders John Moraga and Deiveson Figueiredo collide in a bout with possible title implications, and Eryk Anders tries to rebound from his first pro loss when he takes on Tim Williams.

What: UFC Lincoln

Where: Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Neb.

When: Saturday, Aug. 25. The three-fight UFC Fight Pass preliminary card begins at 6:30 p.m. ET, the four-fight FOX Sports 2 preliminary card begins at 8 p.m. ET, and the six-fight FOX Sports 1 main card begins at 10 p.m. ET.