The MMA Daily

Preview

The Heavyweight division plays host to an intriguing fight, as Don’Tale ‘Lord Kong’ Mayes takes on Josh Parisian. Making the walk for the first time in 2021, Mayes will look to build off his first UFC victory over Roque Martinez. A Dana White Contender Series alum, Mayes had a rocky start to his UFC tenure, losing his first two fights. However, he has a chance here to begin a winning streak and climb up the Heavyweight ranks. Meanwhile, Parisian is also coming off his first UFC victory to a common foe in Roque Martinez. A fight that was a split decision, with the majority of fans and media members siding with Martinez as the victor. Regardless, Parisian got the nod and he has now won seven of his last eight fights.

Prediction

This is an interesting fight, as you have two bottom of the barrel Heavyweights who have won their first UFC fight against the same opponent. Don’Tale Mayes is a striker who has power, is diverse in his attack and has good footwork. While his takedown defense and cardio remains concerning, he did go a full fifteen in his most recent fight. As for Josh Parisian, he too is a striker. A high output one at that, as Parisian, in two UFC fights, is averaging 6.43 significant strikes per minute. A workhorse, Parisian looks to use his cardio and pace to outlast opponents. With twelve of his fourteen wins coming via finish, more often than not, Parisian is doing just that.

As for a prediction, I have Parisian winning. While Mayes is the more explosive and powerful striker, he lacks the volume necessary to keep up with Parisian should he fail to put him away early. With cardio concerns thrown into the mix, I could very well see Parisian wearing on Mayes as the fight wanes. In the end, I trust the durability of Parisian to survive the early storm and then takeover in the later rounds. I’m not certain of the finish, so I’ll predict that Parisian wins via decision.