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  • UFC on ESPN 27: Dillashaw vs. Sandhagen Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 27: Dillashaw vs. Sandhagen Predictions

    The UFC is back in action, as the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada plays host to yet another card. Headlining the event is an exciting and pivotal matchup in the Bantamweight division, as former Bantamweight Champion T.J. Dillashaw returns from a two year suspension to take on the ‘Sandman’ Corey Sandhagen. A fight that has high implications, as a title shot is all but guaranteed. A fight that is between former stablemates. With the pressure at an all-time high here, I’d advise being a coach potato for what could be an instant classic.

    UFC on ESPN 27 Main Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Cory Sandhagen vs. TJ Dillashaw – This is such an awesome fight, one that could of very well have been a Bantamweight title fight had T.J. Dillashaw not chosen the path of taking PED’s . A path that cost him his belt and two years away from the sport. However, the former Bantamweight Champion is back in what is a loaded division. A division that has seen several contenders take center stage. One of them being Corey Sandhagen. An assassin, Sandhagen has laid waste to his last two opponents – knocking out former stablemates Frankie Edgar and Marlon Moraes in spectacular fashion. While a title shot is warranted, Sandhagen welcomed the idea of fighting his former teammate. An idea that I don’t necessarily is bad, but Dillashaw I see has as a tough matchup. Particularly due to the wrestling aspect. It’s something that has plagued Sandhagen, as he boast an abysmal 30% takedown defense. A true weakness, one which cost Sandhagen in his lone UFC defeat to current Bantamweight Champion Aljamain Sterling. And in my opinion, it will be the difference in this fight, as T.J Dillashaw returns to the octagon victorious. Using a mix of striking and timely takedowns for 25 minutes, I see the former Bantamweight Champion winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Kyler Phillips vs. Raulian Paiva – It’s kind of disappointing that Kyler Phillips lost his original opponent in Raphael Assuncao. It would of been a bump in competition, one in which would catapulted himself into the top had he won. Instead, Assuncao pulled out and in entered the former Flyweight Raulian Paiva. A striker, who has shown off an iron chin and pretty good takedown defense. However, I don’t see the takedown defense translating all that up in weight against a good wrestler like Phillips. In fact, Paiva arguably lost his last fight, one in which he was taken down twice. So with all that said, give me the rising contender at Bantamweight to pick up another UFC victory via decision.

    145 lbs.: Darren Elkins vs. Darrick Minner – At first, I was all over Darrick Minner in this spot. I just like his style of winging punches and whenever there is a grappling exchange, he searches for a submission – often locking it up too. Then I realized his opponent is Darren Elkins. A man who has only been submitted once in thirty four fights, which was to the current Lightweight Champion Charles Oliveira. A man who lives for fifteen minutes inside that octagon, whether he’s grinding down an opponent or taking punishment by the dish. Either way, Elkins is as game as anyone. And while I see Minner having success, I don’t believe he can keep Elkins down for as long as he did against Charles Rosa. I also don’t believe Minner has the cardio to keep up with the pace that’s going to be put on in this fight. In the end, I foresee Elkins getting his hands raised via a 29-28 scorecard.

    125 lbs.: Miranda Maverick vs. Maycee Barber – This fight just has stalemate written all over it. Miranda Maverick has excellent striking volume, but so does Maycee Barber. Maverick has shown excellent wrestling abilities, but Barber has also shown to have excellent takedown defense. Maybe where this fight comes down to is power on the feet, which I would favor Barber. However, given her losing skid and Maverick’s excellent performances so far – I’d go with the momentum. So with that, give me Maverick to win via decision.

    135 lbs.: Randy Costa vs. Adrian Yanez – This fight has fireworks written all over it, forever how long it last. Both men are strikers, whom are coming into this fight with back-to-back knockout victories. Oddly enough, both have knocked out their foes, one by kick and the other via a punch. The striking arsenal of both is to be feared for anyone who stands in front of them. In my opinion though, it’s Adrian Yanez who is scarier. While rather inaccurate, Yanez makes that up with volume, sheer knockout power and excellent defensive striking. Randy Costa has the volume and power down, but he gets hit way too often. Against a knockout artist like Yanez, that won’t fly. So with that, give me Yanez to win via knockout.

    UFC on ESPN 27 Prelims Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (4 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: Brendan Allen vs. Punahele Soriano – This is a great scrap at Middleweight, which has big implications for the winner. Brendan Allen is a ground specialist, whom of his five UFC victories, three of which have come via submission. Notably, Allen has submitted Kevin Holland and Tom Breese. Punahele Soriano is a striker, who has had little resistance since joining the UFC. In two UFC fights, not only has Soriano stopped both opponents in the first round, but he has knocked them down four times. In other words, Soriano has legit power. As far as this fight goes, there is some unknown regarding Soriano’s wrestling defense, especially given the Hawaiian has yet to face a single takedown. However, Allen has been falling in love with his striking. It’s been a part of his game that has greatly evolved, yet hurt him in his lone UFC defeat. Against Sean Strickland, staying upright for too long, saw Allen get stopped. Could he make the same mistake twice? Perhaps, but I’m just so bullish about Soriano’s unknown takedown defense to count Allen out. Yet, against my better judgement, I’m going to pick Soriano to win this fight via TKO.


    185 lbs.: Ian Heinisch vs. Nassourdine Imavov – This is a welcome step down in competition for Ian Henisch, who has constantly faced top Middleweights during his UFC tenure. It’s a winnable fight too, as his wrestling and Nassourdine Imavov takedown defense show a clear route to victory. One in which I envision via dominant decision for Henisch.

    170 lbs.: Mickey Gall vs. Jordan Williams – At first I was on Mickey Gall here, but Jordan Williams checks all the boxes here to defeat Gall. For one, Williams has dropped down from Middleweight to Welterweight. So don’t expect Williams to get bullied against the cage. Two, Williams has excellent takedown defense. With size now at Welterweight, I don’t see Gall taking Williams down. Lastly, Williams has legit knockout power and striking volume that nearly triple Gall’s. Given all that, I’m not sure why I thought it was feasible to see Gall winning this fight. So with that, give me Williams to win via knockout.

    135 lbs.: Julio Arce vs. Andre Ewell – While statistically both men are nearly identical in every aspect, its Julio Arce who I favor. The main reason for that is simply body work and leg kicks. Arce is excellent at mixing up his striking arsenal, whereas Ewell favors pumping his jab. In a fight going to take place on feet, I favor Arce’s arsenal over Ewell’s. So with that, I have Adce winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Sijara Eubanks vs. Elise Reed – Despite Elise Reed being undefeated, I find her inexperienced and undersized in this fight. A strawweight, who has fought as low as Atomweight (105 lbs.). Meanwhile, Sijara Eubanks has jumped up and down from Bantamweight to Flyweight. With a clear strength advantage, I really dont see how Reed wins this fight. In my opinion, Eubanks dominates from start to finish – eventually picking up a late TKO victory.

    115 lbs.: Diana Belbita vs. Hannah Goldy – I’m expecting this fight to be close, but I forsee Diana Belbita as the victor. While Belbita’s striking defense needs work, her striking volume is excellent. In a past fight against Molly McCann, Belbita was taken down five times and controlled on the mat for a little more than a fifth of the fight. Despite that, she was able to throw 252 strikes, landing 92 of them. In that fight, she also stuffed nine takedowns. Now, Hannah Goldy is striker, so I don’t expect her to spam takedowns. However, I don’t believe Goldy offers enough volume to keep pace with Belbita on the feet. Throw in the fact that Belbita has shown the ability to mix in a timely takedown, and I believe she has the better skill set needed to win this fight. Let’s say, via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN 26: Makhachev vs. Moises Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 26: Makhachev vs. Moises Predictions

    The UFC is back in action, as the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada plays host to yet another card. Headlining the event is a pair of lightweights in Islam Makhachev and Thiago Moises. While Makhachev gets all the praise, Moises is an excellent fighter and is very deserving of this main event slot. A main event with high stakes, as the winner could find themselves in a top five fight come next.

    For the winner, a potential clash with someone in the top five of the division.

    UFC on ESPN 26 Main Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Islam Makhachev vs. Thiago Moises – As much I think Thiago Moises is underrated, it’s insane to believe I think he gets dominated. Islam Makhachev is just a different breed, and all but seems destined to fight for the title sooner than later. With a complete skill set, and wrestling that can’t be stopped, it’s going to take better than Moises to shut down the Dagestan native. So with that, give me Makhachev to win via late TKO.

    135 lbs.: Marion Reneau vs. Miesha Tate – Do I pick the active fighter who is retiring after this fight or the former UFC Bantamweight Champion who hasn’t fought since 2016? Do I side with a skill set I know or one that I’m not entirely sure has evolved with the times? If you picked the second option of each, that is where I side. So with that, in this total crapshoot of a fight, give me Tate to win via decision.

    155 lbs.: Mateusz Gamrot vs. Jeremy Stephens – I’m very high on Mateusz Gamrot and I don’t see Jeremy Stephens standing in the way of his progression to the top of the division. With a well rounded skill set, Gamrot has proven that his debut, while I thought he won, might have been dimmed due to UFC jitters. I say that because outside of the UFC and in his second fight inside the octagon, the ultra talented Gamrot dominated and finished Scott Holtzman. Quite frankly, I’m expecting more or less the same here. Stephens hasn’t won a fight since 2018 and has been finished in three of his last four fights. Make it four of five, as Gamrot rings off another TKO victory.

    185 lbs.: Dustin Stoltzfus vs. Rodolfo Vieira – If I have to go out on a limb here, either Rodolfo Viera gets it done early via submission or gasses so hard that Dustin Stoltzfus gets the comeback victory. While the latter is juicy, give me Viera to do what he does best, submit foes

    145 lbs.: Billy Quarantillo vs. Gabriel Benitez – This is going to be a fun fight, but I’m going upset and siding with Billy Quarantillo. While his striking needs to be polished, his durability, cardio, pace and grappling all are major positives. Gabriel Benitez is definitely the better striker, especially defensive, but his takedown defense is iffy. It’s something that I’m eyeballing Quarantillo to eventually crack and aide the American to a decision victory.

    UFC on ESPN 26 Prelims Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Preston Parsons vs. Daniel Rodriguez – This is a tough for debut for Preston Parsons, as he will look to do what he does best, take opponents down and submit them. In fact, all nine of his victories have come via submission. Problem is, Daniel Rodriguez has rather good takedown defense. Even better when you consider he stuffed all seven attempts by a known wrestler in Nicholas Dalby. So given I believe Rodriguez will keep the fight on the feet, I don’t see any other result than a knockout victory.

    115 lbs.: Amanda Lemos vs. Montserrat Ruiz – It’s only a matter of time before Amanda Lemos enters the contender conversation, as she is just the complete package. Well rounded, with legit power and grappling. And while Montserrat Ruiz is tough, her debut basically showed only her wrestling and ability control her opponent. In fact, nearly two-thirds of the fight was Ruiz on top of Cheyanne Buys. The lack of activity in top control is concerning, especially in a fight that she undoubtedly knows isn’t easy. Rest assured though, Lemos is going to win this. When Ruiz struggles to take the Lemos down, she’s going to get starched on the feet. Perhaps not a clean knockout, but I sense a TKO victory for the Brazilian.

    135 lbs.: Sergey Morozov vs. Khalid Taha – This fight either goes two ways. One, Sergey Morozov implements a heavy wrestling attack and succeeds. Two, Khalid Taha shrugs off the attempts and pieces him on the feet. Normally, I’d go with the wrestler in these instances, but I was really impressed with Taha in his last fight against Raoni Barcelos. While he ultimately loss, it was an excellent fight that earned ‘Fight of the Night Honors’. Taha was taken down a few times, but was only controlled for a little over three minutes of the fight. I would of liked to see more accuracy, but the activity and cardio were there. In my opinion, I believe we are in for a complete performance by the German. So with that, give me Taha to win via knockout.

    125 lbs.: Francisco Figueredo vs. Malcolm Gordon – This fight is a crapshoot, but I’m siding with Francisco Figueredo. The brother of former UFC Flyweight Champ Deiveson Figueiredo successfully debuted in January of this year, as he defeated Jerome Rivera via unanimous decision. While Figueredo didn’t look all that well in the striking exchanges, he used four takedowns en route to a decision victory. I imagine he will look to use the same blueprint, as Malcolm Gordon hasn’t showed he does anything that well thus far. So with that, I’ll go with Figueredo to win via TKO.

    265 lbs.: Alan Baudot vs. Rodrigo Nascimento – Alan Baudot’s UFC debut didn’t go as planned, as in a mere 95 seconds, he was taken down and finished. Now, the fight was on short notice and against an exceptionally talented Tom Aspinall. With a full camp, does he fare better this go around? Probably not, as Rodrigo Nascimento is a ground specialist who looks to get the fight to the mat. Unfortunately in his last fight, he was tagged and finished before he could. This time around, perhaps Nascimento shoots quickly given Baudot’s takedown defense isn’t all that good and he would be wise to avoid any striking exchanges. So with that, I’ll go with the Brazilian Nascimento to win via submission.

  • UFC 264: Poirier vs. McGregor 3 Predictions

    UFC 264: Poirier vs. McGregor 3 Predictions

    Embed from Getty Images
    Main Card (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass)
    155lbs.Dustin Poirier vs. Conor McGregor
            Prediction
    The trilogy is among us, as Dustin Poirier and Conor McGregor look to close a chapter. One in which is very important in the progression of each’s career. For the winner, bragging rights and a title shot. For the loser, heartbreak and a speed bump in their future goals. With the stakes higher than ever, expect both men to be at their best come Saturday night. 

    Dustin Poirier has had an amazing career thus far, as he’s undoubtedly a future UFC Hall of Famer. Often doubted, Poirier has made a career off being the underdog. In fact, the Louisianan has opened as a betting underdog in five of his last eight fights. With an 11-2 record since 2015, and big-time wins over McGregor, Justin Gaethje, Eddie Alvarez and Max Holloway twice, you’d think Poirier would get some respect. Well, yet again, he opened as the betting underdog for the trilogy. At least the fans respect the ‘Diamond’, as Poirier has now swung the odds in his favor.  

    Conor McGregor returns to the octagon for the second time in 2021. A rarity, as McGregor hasn’t made the walk twice in a calendar year since 2016. Perhaps this is a good thing though, a sign that we might see the former Champ-Champ once again become an active MMA fighter. The sport exploded in due part to McGregor, and still pops whenever fights. While his trash talk and antics rile everyone up, people forget how talented he is in the octagon. He even might have in his most recent fight. One thing I know is to never doubt the man, even when you think he’s done.

    Which brings me to my prediction. At UFC 178, I picked Poirier. At UFC 257, I picked McGregor. At UFC 264, I’m picking McGregor. Can I go 0-3? Possibly, but I’m banking on McGregor returning to his former self. That means, back to the karate stance that aided him in keeping distance, picking his shots and bouncing heads off the canvas. The boxing stance against Poirier in the second fight opened him to the leg kicks that shut down his leg and led him to being knocked out. His piston left hand is still as potent as ever, it’s just best utilized when his stance is wide and opponents have to be wary of his leg attacks. Poirier is crafty and durable though, so I’m wary if he survives the early portion of the fight, the later it goes, the more it turns in his favor. However, if McGregor does in fact return to the norm like I believe, I see him closing the chapter on the trilogy in round two via knockout. 


    170 lbs.Gilbert Burns vs. Stephen Thompson
            Prediction
    The welterweight division is kind of a mess, as you have Colby Covington and Leon Edwards waiting in the wings to fight Kamaru Usman. UFC president Dana White confirmed that Covington was next, but who knows if that holds up. What I do know is that the winner of this fight is not in line for a title shot, but most definitely a title eliminator. 

    Stephen Thompson is one of the best strikers in the UFC, and has been a top ten Welterweight since 2015. Despite coming short of UFC gold on two occasions, Thompson has made it known that he is not yet done in his quest for the strap. With two straight wins over prominent names like Vicente Luque and Geoff Neal, ‘Wonderboy’ is certainly a viable contender still at 170 pounds.

    Gilbert Burns made the right choice when he moved up to Welterweight, as the Brazilian took down four opponents en route to a UFC title shot. While Burns ultimately lost to Kamaru Usman, he gave a good account of himself and positioned himself as a top contender. Another title shot is unlucky for some time, but if Burns can knock off Wonderboy, he will be one step closer.

    As for a prediction, I have Thompson winning. Ever since being ragdolled by Matt Brown, Wonderboy has done a great job working on his takedown defense. In fact, Thompson has been taken down only twice in the last fourteen fights. With the ability to keep it on the feet, I favor his striking over Burns. It’s not that the Brazilian isn’t a great striker, but it’s going to be awfully difficult to deal with Thompson’s karate stance, distance control and four inch reach advantage. I see Thompson using his jab often, as he thoroughly outpoints Burns on the feet to a decision victory. 

    265 lbs.Tai Tuivasa vs. Greg Hardy
            Prediction
    This isn’t exactly a main card worthy fight, but Heavyweight’s due tend to deliver big knockouts from time to time. That’s what Tai Tuivasa has done thus far in the UFC, as four of his five wins inside the octagon have come via knockout. Winner of his last two, Tuivasa is finally headed on the right track to make a run in the division.

    Greg Hardy hasn’t quite done much in the Heavyweight division, but his name value has kept earning him these main card spots. Despite being TKO’d in his last fight against Marcin Tybura, Hardy has a chance to redeem himself against a surging Tuivasa. Hardy has made a knack of finishing foes, as six of his eight wins have come by knockout. 

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Hardy. This is not a confident pick by any means, but Hardy is the more tempered striker and has a five inch reach advantage. I could see him sticking to the outside and jabbing his way to victory. Tuivasa is often wild and prone to being taken down. Perhaps Hardy could exploit that, but it’s doubtful given he has only landed one takedown in eight UFC fights. Regardless, I have Hardy winning via decision. 

    W 135 lbs.Irene Aldana vs. Yana Kunitskaya

    Prediction
    At UFC 265, Amanda Nunes will fight Julianna Pena. After that, there is no clear contender awaiting in the wings. With that in mind, this fight is all the more important for both. Irene Aldana is coming off a five round defeat to Holly Holm. A fight in which vintage Holm showed up and gave Aldana a lesson in striking. However, before the loss, Aldana was rolling, winning five of her previous six fights. A knockout over the previously undefeated Ketlen Vieira stands out among those wins.  

    Yana Kunitskaya is coming off a victory over Said Ketlen Vieira, which marked her second in a row and fourth in the last five. With a lone loss to Aspen Ladd in that stretch, Kunitskaya has been trending closer and closer to a title shot. A win over Aldana will only enhance her case.

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Aldana. Up until Holly Holm, Aldana seemed destined to fight for a title. With excellent takedown defense and an ability to pop up should she be taken down, I’m confident in saying that Aldana wins the standup battle. Not because she’s the better striker, but her work rate and cardio are off the charts. A little more striking accuracy would be beneficial, but the volume alone should get Aldana a decision victory here.

    135 lbs.Sean O’Malley vs. Kris Moutinho

    Prediction
    Originally Louis Smolka was scheduled to fight Sean O’Malley, but an injury forced him out and in steps UFC debutant Kris Moutinho. Obviously this is a less than ideal fight for the newcomer, but it’s an opportunity to make a name for yourself on the biggest stage. With two consecutive wins heading in, Moutinho will look to keep the momentum going.

    O’Malley most recently bounced back nicely from his first professional defeat, as he knocked out Thomas Almeida. While I would have thought a better fight than Smolka would have come after, I guess I was wrong. One thing is for sure, O’Malley is an exciting fighter and it’s only a matter of time before he fights the top fifteen of the division. 

    As for a prediction, I have O’Malley winning. I don’t think on short notice that Moutinho has anything for ‘Sugar’. I expect this one to end rather early, as O’Malley does what he does best, knock opponents out.
    Preliminary Card (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass)
    170 lbs.Carlos Condit vs. Max Griffin
            Prediction
    Before 2020 rolled around, Carlos Condit had lost five fights in a row and was submitted in three of those defeats. With retirement in mind, Condit took nearly two years off before he entered the cage again. This time however, Condit won, for the first time in over five years. Condit followed that victory with another, marking his first win streak since 2011-2012.

    Max Griffin too has caught stride of late, winning his last two fights. Before the winning streak, Griffin was 3-6, with a very controversial loss to Thiago Alves as one of those losses. Credit Griffin though, who has stopped his last two opponents, earning him a fight against the former Interim Welterweight Champion. 

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Max Griffin winning. My heart wants to pick Carlos Condit, but my head can’t forget that he has awful takedown defense. In fact, during the last four fights of the five fight losing streak, Condit was taken down 14 times. To go even further, it was 14 takedowns in just over 31 minutes of cage time. While Griffin has good striking, he’s shown to have solid wrestling abilities. With a takedown success rate at 51% and an average of 1.7 takedowns per minute, expect Griffin to fully exploit Condit’s known weakness. So with that, I have Griffin winning his third straight fight via decision.


    170 lbs.Niko Price vs. Michel Pereira 
            Prediction
    If anything, this fight has ‘Fight of the Night’ written all over it. In one corner, you have Niko Price, a borderline wildman. He seemingly lives for the violence, and very much abides by the phrase “live by the sword, die by the sword”. In fact, of Price’s 20 professional fights, only two of them have gone the full three rounds. Oddly enough, Price’s most recent fight with Donald Cerrone was a decision, his first in the UFC.

    In the other corner, you have Michel Pereira. A human highlight reel, who recently has tempered himself somewhat. Whether that’s because he realized he didn’t have the cardio to go a full three rounds against better competition or that to be the cream of the crop, it’s best to not run around and throw aerial attacks every 20 seconds. 

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Niko Price. I realize that he’s been finished in three of his last six fights, but he’s also shown a real solid chin at times. Perhaps his defensive striking needs work, but given his style, that’s doubtful. The big reason I like Price is that he’s not going to be afraid to bring the fight to Pereira. He’s got excellent striking volume and power. His cardio and pace are hard to match, so the later this fight goes, the better it is for Price. In the end, I feel like Price stops the Brazilian – let’s say via third round TKO. 


    145 lbs.Ryan Hall vs. Ilia Topuria
            Prediction
    This fight is exciting and I commend the matchmaking here. Both men are ground specialists, who will absolutely delight us with their scrambling and submission attempts. The mystery in this fight is how Ryan Hall is going to look after two years away from the octagon due to a plague of injuries and lack of opponents stepping up to fight him. He’s not exactly a spring chicken either, as he’s 36 years old. Regardless, I expect the ‘Wizard’ to be locked in for his return.

    Ilia Topuria has lived up to the hype thus far. In two UFC fights, he’s bested Youssef Zalal and Damon Jackson. The most recent fight against Damon Jackson was an absolute masterclass. Topuria showed off his hands, going to the body often, eventually opening up the knockout blow. If his hands continue to progress, a Featherweight contender could be upon us.

    As for a prediction, it’s tough not to side with Topuria. He’s well rounded, undefeated and a stylistically tough matchup for Hall. However, I’m going with the upset here. Hall might not be the best striker, but he is excellent in keeping distance and avoiding being hit. In fact, in a little more than 47 minutes of cage time, he’s been hit with 46 significant strikes. That’s less than a strike a minute. Obviously if this fight hits the mat, I’m comfortable with Hall’s abilities. Regardless, Hall surprises on the feet and wins this fight via decision by avoiding strikes and landing leg kicks.


    185 lbs.Driscus du Plessis vs. Trevin Giles

    Prediction
    This should be a good fight, as you have two surging Middleweights looking to extend their winning streaks and catapult themselves into a bigger fight. Driscus du Plessis is a former KSW and EFC Champion. du Plessis’ base is kickboxing, but make no mistake, he’s got grappling chops too. With nine of his fifteen wins coming via submission, I wouldn’t get too comfortable thinking he is going to keep the fight standing. 

    Trevin Giles’ UFC tenure has been streaky, as his first two fights inside the octagon ended in knockout wins. The next two fights would result in submission defeats, albeit to tough competition. Now, Giles has strung together three straight victories. Notably defeating James Krause and the previously undefeated Roman Dolidze. A fourth consecutive win at Middleweight would all but lead to a top fifteen fight. 

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Giles. While he may not have the kickboxing background du Plessis has, Giles is an accurate and defensively sound striker. He also mixes in timely takedowns and has vastly improved his takedown defense. The cause for concern for me about du Plessis, is that he’s too hittable. Markus Perez was pressuring and landing some good shots on the South African, well, up until the knockout blow. This time however, it’s Giles who is going to land the knockout blow, as I have him winning his fourth straight fight. 
    Early Preliminary Card (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass)
    W 125 lbs. Jennifer Maia vs. Jessica Eye
            Prediction
    I hate to say this because I like Jessica Eye, but her time in the sun at Flyweight seems to be nearing an end. That’s not because she isn’t talented, but her defensive wrestling and fight IQ are so inconsistent, that it’s hard to trust her. Against wrestlers or grapplers, Eye has struggled to keep the fight on the feet. Unfortunately for her, Maia is an excellent grappler. 

    The Brazilian is 3-3 inside the octagon, fighting the absolute best the division has to offer. With wins over Alexis Davis, Roxanne Modafferi and a submission over Joanne Calderwood, Maia is one of the best Flyweights on the roster. Most recently, Maia fought Valentina Shevchenko for the Flyweight Championship. While Maia ultimately lost, she did however go the full five rounds with the Champion. Even taking down and controlling Shevchenko for a decisive round in her favor.

    As for the prediction, I have Maia winning via decision. I could see a scenario where she submits Eye, but ‘Evil’ is as tough as they come and will avoid being finished. What she won’t avoid is being taken down and controlled for three rounds. So with that, give me Maia to win via decision

    .
    185 lbs.Amari Akhmedov vs. Brad Tavares
            Prediction
    This is a toss-up. In one corner, you have an under the radar Amari Akhmedov. I say that because it’s doubtful you’d know the Russian has nine UFC wins under his belt. In fact, over Akhmedov’s last eight fights, he is an impressive 6-1-1. Most recently, ‘Wolverine’ submitted Tom Breese.

    In the other corner, you have Brad Taveras. A Hawaiin who has been with the UFC for over a decade. Tavares, a former Ultimate Fighter contestant, has 19 fights inside the octagon. One of the crazier things about Tavares is that he fought and beat Phil Baroni in the UFC. Recently, Taveres ended a two-fight skid and near three year winless streak against Antonio Carlos Junior.

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Akhmedov. I don’t like his gas tank, but I do like that he wrestles and will push opponents up to the cage for control time. Tavares has solid takedown defense, so it’s very possible that he shrugs off the Russian, tiring him in the process. On the feet, both men are low output and are rather inaccurate. They both are defensively sound though, which could make this fight a real stalemate. Given all the intangibles, one takedown or control time against the cage could be the difference here – which is why I have Akhmedov winning via decision.


    125 lbs.Zhalgas Zhumagulov vs. Jerome Rivera
            Prediction
    For a promotion that is cutting bait on fighters, it’s surprising to see the UFC give Jerome Rivera a fourth chance to get a win inside the octagon. Then again, he has stepped up on short notice on numerous occasions. In fact, his three UFC fights have taken place in three different weight classes; Flyweight, Bantamweight and Featherweight. Above his natural weight class of Flyweight, Rivera has been stopped twice.

    Zhalgas Zhumagulov was touted entering the UFC, but he too has yet to win inside the octagon. With wins over Tyson Nam, Tagir Ulanbekov and Ali Bagautinov on the regional scene, expectations were high for the Kazakh. His debut didn’t go his way, even though me and the majority of media members saw Zhumagulov as the victor. The most recent fight against Amir Albazi, he definitely didn’t win though.

    As for a prediction, I have Zhumagulov finally getting his UFC win. The Kazakh does a nice job blending his striking with his wrestling. The overall output is decent, but in this particular fight, I see only wrestling needed to aid him to victory. Rivera has awful takedown defense, which was exploited recently by Francisco Figueiredo. A fight that saw Rivera taken down each round, and controlled for a total of seven minutes of the fifteen minute fight. I expect more of the same, as Zhumagulov cruises to a unanimous decision. 


    185 lbs.Alen Amedovski vs. Hu Yaozong

    Prediction
    This fight is one of the odder one’s I’ve seen booked. Two fighters, who are 0-2 inside the octagon and quite frankly, I had no idea either were still in the UFC. Throw in the fact that Alen Amedovski hasn’t fought in nearly two years and Hu Yaozong is four months away from a three year absence – and I’m not really sure what to expect. 

    If I were to dissect this fight, it begins with the notion if either are truly UFC caliber. I think not. For one, Yaozong was signed after winning his first three fights against cans on the regional scene. With the UFC looking to expand in China, local talent was sought to fill out their card in Shanghai. Yaozong was fortunate to get the call, but clearly, it was too soon for the young fighter. 

    Meanwhile, Amedovski entered the UFC undefeated with an 8-0 record. All eight of his victories came via knockout. While cans are mixed into that record, Amedovski fought some real competition in Bellator. One fight lasted 109 seconds, while the other lasted a mere 12 seconds. In my opinion, the Macedonia born fighter was a good signing and ready for the octagon. 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Amedovski. Yaozong is far from UFC caliber and getting this third opportunity after being out for nearly three years is kind of crazy. Especially when you think of all the roster cuts they’ve made in the last year. Regardless, I got Amedovski getting his first UFC win via first round knockout. 
  • UFC 264 Preliminary Card Predictions

    UFC 264 Preliminary Card Predictions

    Embed from Getty Images
    Preliminary Card (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass)
    170 lbs.Carlos Condit vs. Max Griffin
            Prediction
    Before 2020 rolled around, Carlos Condit had lost five fights in a row and was submitted in three of those defeats. With retirement in mind, Condit took nearly two years off before he entered the cage again. This time however, Condit won, for the first time in over five years. Condit followed that victory with another, marking his first win streak since 2011-2012.

    Max Griffin too has caught stride of late, winning his last two fights. Before the winning streak, Griffin was 3-6, with a very controversial loss to Thiago Alves as one of those losses. Credit Griffin though, who has stopped his last two opponents, earning him a fight against the former Interim Welterweight Champion. 

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Max Griffin winning. My heart wants to pick Carlos Condit, but my head can’t forget that he has awful takedown defense. In fact, during the last four fights of the five fight losing streak, Condit was taken down 14 times. To go even further, it was 14 takedowns in just over 31 minutes of cage time. While Griffin has good striking, he’s shown to have solid wrestling abilities. With a takedown success rate at 51% and an average of 1.7 takedowns per minute, expect Griffin to fully exploit Condit’s known weakness. So with that, I have Griffin winning his third straight fight via decision.


    170 lbs.Niko Price vs. Michel Pereira 
            Prediction
    If anything, this fight has ‘Fight of the Night’ written all over it. In one corner, you have Niko Price, a borderline wildman. He seemingly lives for the violence, and very much abides by the phrase “live by the sword, die by the sword”. In fact, of Price’s 20 professional fights, only two of them have gone the full three rounds. Oddly enough, Price’s most recent fight with Donald Cerrone was a decision, his first in the UFC.

    In the other corner, you have Michel Pereira. A human highlight reel, who recently has tempered himself somewhat. Whether that’s because he realized he didn’t have the cardio to go a full three rounds against better competition or that to be the cream of the crop, it’s best to not run around and throw aerial attacks every 20 seconds. 

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Niko Price. I realize that he’s been finished in three of his last six fights, but he’s also shown a real solid chin at times. Perhaps his defensive striking needs work, but given his style, that’s doubtful. The big reason I like Price is that he’s not going to be afraid to bring the fight to Pereira. He’s got excellent striking volume and power. His cardio and pace are hard to match, so the later this fight goes, the better it is for Price. In the end, I feel like Price stops the Brazilian – let’s say via third round TKO. 


    145 lbs.Ryan Hall vs. Ilia Topuria
            Prediction
    This fight is exciting and I commend the matchmaking here. Both men are ground specialists, who will absolutely delight us with their scrambling and submission attempts. The mystery in this fight is how Ryan Hall is going to look after two years away from the octagon due to a plague of injuries and lack of opponents stepping up to fight him. He’s not exactly a spring chicken either, as he’s 36 years old. Regardless, I expect the ‘Wizard’ to be locked in for his return.

    Ilia Topuria has lived up to the hype thus far. In two UFC fights, he’s bested Youssef Zalal and Damon Jackson. The most recent fight against Damon Jackson was an absolute masterclass. Topuria showed off his hands, going to the body often, eventually opening up the knockout blow. If his hands continue to progress, a Featherweight contender could be upon us.

    As for a prediction, it’s tough not to side with Topuria. He’s well rounded, undefeated and a stylistically tough matchup for Hall. However, I’m going with the upset here. Hall might not be the best striker, but he is excellent in keeping distance and avoiding being hit. In fact, in a little more than 47 minutes of cage time, he’s been hit with 46 significant strikes. That’s less than a strike a minute. Obviously if this fight hits the mat, I’m comfortable with Hall’s abilities. Regardless, Hall surprises on the feet and wins this fight via decision by avoiding strikes and landing leg kicks.


    185 lbs.Driscus du Plessis vs. Trevin Giles

    Prediction
    This should be a good fight, as you have two surging Middleweights looking to extend their winning streaks and catapult themselves into a bigger fight. Driscus du Plessis is a former KSW and EFC Champion. du Plessis’ base is kickboxing, but make no mistake, he’s got grappling chops too. With nine of his fifteen wins coming via submission, I wouldn’t get too comfortable thinking he is going to keep the fight standing. 

    Trevin Giles’ UFC tenure has been streaky, as his first two fights inside the octagon ended in knockout wins. The next two fights would result in submission defeats, albeit to tough competition. Now, Giles has strung together three straight victories. Notably defeating James Krause and the previously undefeated Roman Dolidze. A fourth consecutive win at Middleweight would all but lead to a top fifteen fight. 

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Giles. While he may not have the kickboxing background du Plessis has, Giles is an accurate and defensively sound striker. He also mixes in timely takedowns and has vastly improved his takedown defense. The cause for concern for me about du Plessis, is that he’s too hittable. Markus Perez was pressuring and landing some good shots on the South African, well, up until the knockout blow. This time however, it’s Giles who is going to land the knockout blow, as I have him winning his fourth straight fight. 
  • UFC 264 Early Preliminary Predictions

    UFC 264 Early Preliminary Predictions

    Embed from Getty Images
    Early Preliminary Card (ESPN+ / UFC Fight Pass)
    W 125 lbs. Jennifer Maia vs. Jessica Eye
            Prediction
    I hate to say this because I like Jessica Eye, but her time in the sun at Flyweight seems to be nearing an end. That’s not because she isn’t talented, but her defensive wrestling and fight IQ are so inconsistent, that it’s hard to trust her. Against wrestlers or grapplers, Eye has struggled to keep the fight on the feet. Unfortunately for her, Maia is an excellent grappler. 

    The Brazilian is 3-3 inside the octagon, fighting the absolute best the division has to offer. With wins over Alexis Davis, Roxanne Modafferi and a submission over Joanne Calderwood, Maia is one of the best Flyweights on the roster. Most recently, Maia fought Valentina Shevchenko for the Flyweight Championship. While Maia ultimately lost, she did however go the full five rounds with the Champion. Even taking down and controlling Shevchenko for a decisive round in her favor.

    As for the prediction, I have Maia winning via decision. I could see a scenario where she submits Eye, but ‘Evil’ is as tough as they come and will avoid being finished. What she won’t avoid is being taken down and controlled for three rounds. So with that, give me Maia to win via decision

    .
    185 lbs.Amari Akhmedov vs. Brad Tavares
            Prediction
    This is a toss-up. In one corner, you have an under the radar Amari Akhmedov. I say that because it’s doubtful you’d know the Russian has nine UFC wins under his belt. In fact, over Akhmedov’s last eight fights, he is an impressive 6-1-1. Most recently, ‘Wolverine’ submitted Tom Breese.

    In the other corner, you have Brad Taveras. A Hawaiin who has been with the UFC for over a decade. Tavares, a former Ultimate Fighter contestant, has 19 fights inside the octagon. One of the crazier things about Tavares is that he fought and beat Phil Baroni in the UFC. Recently, Taveres ended a two-fight skid and near three year winless streak against Antonio Carlos Junior.

    As for a prediction, I’m going with Akhmedov. I don’t like his gas tank, but I do like that he wrestles and will push opponents up to the cage for control time. Tavares has solid takedown defense, so it’s very possible that he shrugs off the Russian, tiring him in the process. On the feet, both men are low output and are rather inaccurate. They both are defensively sound though, which could make this fight a real stalemate. Given all the intangibles, one takedown or control time against the cage could be the difference here – which is why I have Akhmedov winning via decision.


    125 lbs.Zhalgas Zhumagulov vs. Jerome Rivera
            Prediction
    For a promotion that is cutting bait on fighters, it’s surprising to see the UFC give Jerome Rivera a fourth chance to get a win inside the octagon. Then again, he has stepped up on short notice on numerous occasions. In fact, his three UFC fights have taken place in three different weight classes; Flyweight, Bantamweight and Featherweight. Above his natural weight class of Flyweight, Rivera has been stopped twice.

    Zhalgas Zhumagulov was touted entering the UFC, but he too has yet to win inside the octagon. With wins over Tyson Nam, Tagir Ulanbekov and Ali Bagautinov on the regional scene, expectations were high for the Kazakh. His debut didn’t go his way, even though me and the majority of media members saw Zhumagulov as the victor. The most recent fight against Amir Albazi, he definitely didn’t win though.

    As for a prediction, I have Zhumagulov finally getting his UFC win. The Kazakh does a nice job blending his striking with his wrestling. The overall output is decent, but in this particular fight, I see only wrestling needed to aid him to victory. Rivera has awful takedown defense, which was exploited recently by Francisco Figueiredo. A fight that saw Rivera taken down each round, and controlled for a total of seven minutes of the fifteen minute fight. I expect more of the same, as Zhumagulov cruises to a unanimous decision. 


    185 lbs.Alen Amedovski vs. Hu Yaozong

    Prediction
    This fight is one of the odder one’s I’ve seen booked. Two fighters, who are 0-2 inside the octagon and quite frankly, I had no idea either were still in the UFC. Throw in the fact that Alen Amedovski hasn’t fought in nearly two years and Hu Yaozong is four months away from a three year absence – and I’m not really sure what to expect. 

    If I were to dissect this fight, it begins with the notion if either are truly UFC caliber. I think not. For one, Yaozong was signed after winning his first three fights against cans on the regional scene. With the UFC looking to expand in China, local talent was sought to fill out their card in Shanghai. Yaozong was fortunate to get the call, but clearly, it was too soon for the young fighter. 

    Meanwhile, Amedovski entered the UFC undefeated with an 8-0 record. All eight of his victories came via knockout. While cans are mixed into that record, Amedovski fought some real competition in Bellator. One fight lasted 109 seconds, while the other lasted a mere 12 seconds. In my opinion, the Macedonia born fighter was a good signing and ready for the octagon. 

    As for a prediction, I’m siding with Amedovski. Yaozong is far from UFC caliber and getting this third opportunity after being out for nearly three years is kind of crazy. Especially when you think of all the roster cuts they’ve made in the last year. Regardless, I got Amedovski getting his first UFC win via first round knockout. 

  • UFC Fight Night 190: Gane vs. Volkov Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 190: Gane vs. Volkov Predictions

    The UFC is back in action, as the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada plays host to yet another Fight Night Card. Headlining the card is a pair of Heavyweight Contenders, as the surging Ciryl Gane takes on Alexander Volkov. In what should be an excellent fight, one wonders what a win for either of them means next? The Heavyweight division in a weird spot, as Champion Francis Ngannou is set to take on Derrick Lewis. After that, Jon Jones is awaiting his title shot. You have Stipe Miocic and Curtis Blaydes up there too. It’s less than ideal to be apart of the division, but you keep winning enough, you’re bound to fight for a title. Right?

    Note: I’m sticking with every pick, but one – I’m going with Ike Villanueva to win via first round knockout.

    UFC Fight Night 190 Main Card On ESPN+ (4 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Ciryl Gane vs. Alexander Volkov – Everyone is seemingly on Ciryl Gane and I understand. The man has excellent striking technique and he’s no slouch on the ground. The problem I foresee here is that, maybe not him, but people underestimate Alexander Volkov. He was a former Bellator and M-1 Heavyweight Champion. He’s 7-2 in the UFC, with finishes over Alistair Overeem and Fabricio Werdum. Volkov was also less than 20 seconds away from thoroughly beating Derrick Lewis. If his other loss to Curtis Blaydes had no time limit or at least an additional round, he would of put away Curtis Blaydes. Volkov is underrated and in my opinion, is a legit contender for the Heavyweight strap.

    The problem for Gane in this fight, is that it’s five rounds. If it were three, he could follow the gameplan of Blaydes and go with a heavy takedown approach. Given that it’s five rounds, I can’t see Gane having the cardio or energy to keep taking Volkov down. The Russian is known to continue to pop up when taken down and with perhaps the best cardio in the Heavyweight division, he can outlast anyone. Now, Gane is an excellent striker too. So he could very well just go toe to toe. I just feel that the length and volume of Volkov is a nightmare for anyone over five rounds. So with that give me the upset, as I have Volkov winning via knockout.


    265 lbs.: Tanner Boser vs. Ovince Saint Preux – This fight is one of those where you stay away. Both my head and heart are confused, and I have no real lean on anyone fighter. I guess since I have to make a prediction, give me the veteran OSP. He’s at least got the head kick knockout or Von Flue in his back pocket. Tanner Boser on the other hand offers up volume and cardio. So with that, give me OSP to win via decision.


    135 lbs.: Raoni Barcelos vs. Timur Valiev – I have Raoni Barcelos all day here. I’m super high on the Brazilian, as he is a well rounded mixed martial artist and quite frankly, I believe he deserves ranked opponents. Not that Timur Valiev is bad, I mean his record speaks for itself at 17-2. The problem in this fight for him is that I only see one route to him winning. That would be taking down Barcelos, which isn’t an easy task. Boasting an 85% takedown defense, Barcelos has excelled at keeping the fight on the feet. From there, his volume, power and pressure just overwhelm opponent’s. The same will occur here, as Barcelos wins via TKO.


    145 lbs.: Andre Fili vs. Daniel Pineda – Unless Andre Fili has a mental lapse, he should win this fight. Daniel Pineda is a sprinter, coming out guns blazing in the first round and ultimately slowing down after that. As long as Fili avoids getting caught, he should be able to weather any early storm and put it on Pineda. So with that, give me Fili to get a TKO finish here.


    170 lbs.: Nicolas Dalby vs. Tim Means – If Tim Means can shrug off the constant takedown attempts of Nicholas Dalby, I feel comfortable in saying that his volume will reign supreme in this fight. In what might be a close fight, give me the ‘Dirty Bird’ to win via decision – using his volume, cardio and pace to outlast Dalby.


    155 lbs.: Jai Herbert vs. Renato Moicano – This is a tough draw for Jai Herbert, but at the same time, a golden opportunity to catapult himself into the division’s top fifteen fighters. Do I believe he wins? No, but he definitely has a puncher’s chance against the iffy chin of Renato Moicano. The problem though I foresee for Herbert is that Moicano is just too skilled everywhere for the Brit to find success anywhere. In the end, I have Moicano winning via decision.

    UFC Fight Night 190 Prelims Card On ESPN+ (1 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Danilo Marques vs Kennedy Nzechukwu – This fight all comes down to if Danilo Marques can take Kennedy Nzechukwu down. I think no, even though we have seen Nzechukwu succumb to takedowns before. I believe that the man is just too strong, but then again, technique can overpower that. Regardless, I think this fight stays on the feet and Nzechukwu puts down Marques at some point – winning via TKO.


    170 lbs.: Michel Prazeres vs. Shavkat Rakhmonov – Before losing to Ismail Naurdiev, Michel Prazeres had won eight consecutive fights, including beating Gilbert Burns. The Brazilian excels at taking his opponents down, and smothering them for the entirety of the round. That technique has formulated into a 10-3 record inside the octagon. However, most of those wins are at Lightweight. The move up to Welterweight has kind of zapped his overpowering strength advantage over opponents. Throw in a two year absence and a return fight against a stud in Shavkat Rakhmonov – and I don’t see things going well for Prazeres. So with that, give me Shavkat Rakhmonov to win via TKO.

    170 lbs.: Warlley Alves vs. Jeremiah Wells – Given the short notice of the fight, I have Warlley Alves winning. Jeremiah Wells is built like a tank, and I’m concerned his cardio wanes after round one. The recipe to defeat Alves has always been to outlast him and take over as his cardio dissipates. However, if this goes past one, and both men are gassed – give me Alves skillset over Wells. So with that, I have Alves winning via submission.


    205 lbs.: Marcin Prachnio vs. Ike Villanueva – This one is a toss-up for me. At first I had Marcin Prachnio to win via third round knockout, but I’m switching to Ike Villanueva. I just can’t trust a man who previous to his shocking upset over Khahil Rountree Jr., was knocked out three times in a row. He was wobbled a few times in that victory to boot. So with that, give me Ike Villanueva to win via knockout.


    135 lbs.: Julia Avila vs. Julija Stoliarenko – I believe Julia Avila got everyone’s attention to start her UFC career, that everyone neglected to see that she wasn’t ready to face a complete tank like Sijara Eubanks. Regardless, this is a nice bounce back fight for the promising Bantamweight. As long as she avoids Julija Stoliarenko’s arm bar attempts from guard, Avila should cruise to a decision victory.

    145 lbs.: Justin Jaynes vs. Charles Rosa – Justin Jaynes back is against the wall and I saw he bet on himself. Now, I don’t think this fight is necessarily as daunting as his recent ones. However, I just can’t back the man. His takedown defense nor gas tank has been all that well. If Charles Rosa does anything well, it’s find a way to get his opponents down and smother them via top control. He’s a submission threat as well, but I’m going to bank on the toughness of Jaynes to see three rounds. So with that, I have Rosa winning via decision.


    155 lbs.: Damir Hadzovic vs. Yancy Medeiros – This is a toss-up, but I lean on Yancy Medeiros due to his durability, cardio and constant will to win. There’s definitely a chance he gets bettered by the more technical striker Damir Hadzovic, but give me Medeiros to in via decision.

  • UFC on ESPN 25: The Korean Zombie vs. Ige Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 25: The Korean Zombie vs. Ige Predictions

    After a fun PPV card, the UFC returns to the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada with a fun card on ESPN. Headlining the event is the Korean Zombie Chan Sung Jung, who looks to bounce back against Featherweight contender Dan Ige. In what should be an awesome fight, the winner of this fight will put themselves right into the title picture. One in which is crowded, with Max Holloway and Yair Rodriguez matching up in what should be a title eliminator. Anyways, this fight is one you should not miss. Both men are extremely durable and have already fought in some epic fights. The ingredients here are exactly what required for the recipe of a barnburner, so don’t blink.

    UFC Vegas 29 Main Card On ESPN2/ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Chan Sung Jung vs. Dan Ige – It’s kind of crazy that Dan Ige called for this fight long ago and now it comes to fruition. It’s a fun fight and unquestionably has the feels and ingredients to be a Fight of the Night or even Year. Chan Sung Jung AKA the Korean Zombie returns to the octagon after dropping a title eliminator fight against Brian Ortega. A bittersweet feeling for TKZ, as he was closing in on a title shot. A chance to rebound comes in the form 50k Ige. With seven wins in his last eight fights, Ige is a certainly a contender to look out for. To put out the surging Gavin Tucker in 22 seconds was really eye opening. So much so, it granted him his wish to fight TKZ.

    As for a prediction, give me TKZ. His durability is relatively unmatched, and his striking is just so good. I’m not really sure what happened in his fight against Brian Ortega, but he looked flat. Perhaps, the threat of Ortega getting the fight to the ground changed his approach, but his grappling is really good – borderline underrated. In what should be a back-and-forth brawl, I liken TKZ to come out on top. Let’s say via fourth round TKO.

    265 lbs.: Aleksei Oleinik vs. Serghei Spivac – Part of me hopes Aleksei Oleinik pulls off a victory here, but the man is 900 years old and is as stiff as an ironing board. Perhaps Serghei Spivak’s lack of standing power aids Oleinik in his pursuit for sixty wins in mixed martial arts. The again, the Russian has been finished in four of his last six fights. Add another to that total, as I believe Spivac win this fight via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Davey Grant vs. Marlon Vera – The resurgence of Davey Grant is fun, but this is Marlon Vera’s fight to lose. Grant is a solid grappler and submission threat, with his striking and power slowly becoming a threat in his arsenal. Problem is, he’s more serviceable than good at striking. Meanwhile, Vera is well rounded and should comfortably control the fight wherever it goes. So with that, give me Vera to win via decision.

    145 lbs.: Julian Erosa vs. Seungwoo Choi – This is a toss up. The confidence of Julian Erosa is at an all-time high, having winning back-to-back fights via knockout. The problem that lies in the way of a third victory is if he can shrug off the takedowns of Seungwoo Choi. If he can, I believe Erosa’s volume and aggressiveness should alone edge him out a hard fought decision victory.

    185 lbs.: Bruno Silva vs. Wellington Turman – I’ve been high on Bruno Silva before the UFC signed him. Obviously it’s disappointing that he tested hot before debuting in the UFC, missing two years in the process. However, I’m still on board. Silva via knockout!

    170 lbs.: Matt Brown vs. Dhiego Lima – The odds of this fight seem a little off. I mean, Dhiego Lima has certainly bounced back of recent, but his skillset isn’t anything that Matt Brown should be terribly worried about. For one, Lima isn’t that good of a striker. He throws little volume, is inaccurate and doesn’t offer much power. His wrestling is pretty good, so that might be where he can get Brown. Then again, I liken the ground game of Brown to get back to his feet, where he owns several advantage. In a fun fight, give me the upset minded Brown to win via decision.

    UFC Vegas 29 Prelims Card On ESPN2/ESPN+ (4 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Aleksa Camur vs. Nicolae Negumereanu – This is a clear bounce back fight for Aleska Camur. The only thing that’s in question in this fight, is if Camur gets the finish. I’ll say no, as Camur wins via decision.

    115 lbs.: Virna Jandiroba vs. Kanako Murata – People might be high on Kanako Murata, and that’s fine. However, Virna Jandiroba is the more established and experienced fighter. It’s one thing to pad your record with no names, it’s another to become the Invicta FC Champion and fight top UFC fighters. The odds might be close, but that’s not how I feel. Give me Jandiroba to win via submission.

    170 lbs.: Matthew Semelsberger vs. Khaos Williams – If Matthew Semelsberger can survive the initial storm of Khaos Williams, he probably will wear on him and out strike him for the next two rounds. However, I don’t think Semelsberger makes it to round two. It’s one thing to fight Carlton Minus and Jason Witt, it’s another to fight a vicious striker like Williams. So with that, give me Williams to win via knockout.

    265 lbs.: Roque Martinez vs. Josh Parisian – This is truly the bottom of the barrel at Heavyweight and I’m all in (not really) on Roque Martinez here. Both men seem to have pretty good durability and cardio, but I foresee Martinez doing everything possible to win. That means, takedown Josh Parisian. In what might be a sloppy fight decided on the few takedowns, give me Martinez to get his first UFC victory via decision.

    155 lbs.: Rick Glenn vs. Joaquim Silva – Rick Glenn has time and time again turned fights in which I thought he had no chance, into sloppy affairs that he wins or it’s extremely close. Given his layoff and that he makes the jump to Lightweight, I liken the durability and power of Joaquim Silva to put Glenn out via knockout.

    125 lbs.: Casey O’Neill vs. Lara Procopio – This fight could turn into a heavy grappling affair, which given what we’ve seen by both ladies thus far – it’s hard to give the edge to anyone. And while Lara Procopio is the more experienced veteran, it’s the undefeated Aussie Casey O’Neill I’m picking. Her debut gave me insight into what I believe to be a future contender at Flyweight. Obviously her striking needs work, but her grappling and top control are polished enough to run through some Flyweights while her striking catches up. So with that, give me O’Neill to win via decision.

  • UFC 263: Adesanya vs. Vettori 2: Predictions

    UFC 263: Adesanya vs. Vettori 2: Predictions

    The UFC is back in action with an absolutely stacked PPV card, featuring two title fights and the return of Nate Diaz. The headliners are one of those title fights, as Israel Adesanya and Marvin Vettori collide for the second time. The first fight saw the judges award Adesanya a split decision win, as well as a blueprint to beating the future Middleweight king. With the animosity between the two all week at a high, the anticipation for this fight is through the roof. The second title fight is also a rematch, as Champion Deiveson Figueiredo and Brandon Moreno will look to get a result this time around – with the last fight resulting in a draw. The first fight between these two was an absolute banger, could a second instant classic be in store? Lastly, needle mover and fan favorite Nate Diaz returns to octagon against legitimate Welterweight title contender Leon Edwards, Given this fight is five rounds, which is odd given it’s not the headliner, I would be inclined to say the winner is getting a title shot against Kamaru Usman. With excellent fights all over this card, I’d advise not to blink.

    UFC 263 PPV Main Card On ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya vs. Marvin Vettori 2 – When envisioning this fight, I see three different scenario’s. One, Marvin Vettori realizes his dream as the first ever Italian UFC Champion. Using wrestling throughout the fight, he neutralizes Israell Adesanya. Two, Adesanya comes out like a demon and force Vettori into a striking contest, ultimately landing a counter blow that rocks and puts down the Italian. Three, Vettori eats everything Adesanya has and they go back-and-forth in an instant classic – however Vettori’s timely takedowns aids him to an upset. Given I have two scenario’s in which I envision Vettori winning, you’d think that would be the scenario I go with. Wrong. I believe that the animosity of this fight is going to get to open up Vettori to being vulnerable. It might not happen early, but I do believe a finish by Adesanya will happen. Let’s say fourth round TKO.

    125 lbs.: UFC Flyweight Champion Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Brandon Moreno 2 – While the first fight is everything I expected, I actually don’t think the second fight will be a five round war. I believe that Deiveson Figueiredo will finish Brandon Moreno this time around. Not because Moreno is a lesser fighter or his durability I question, as his chin is truly made of iron. I just believe that the weight cut on three weeks notice, was way to much to ask Figueiredo to do. For a guy with a frame like his, and him admitting to weighing 143 pounds at fight night, it’s only a matter of time before he should go up to Bantamweight. Now, he was the last fighter at weigh-ins and needed to strip down naked to weigh-in. So there is concern there, but in my eyes, the less than three weeks fight cut is worse. I guess we’ll see. But my prediction still stands, Figgy retains the Flyweight title with a knockout victory over Moreno.

    170 lbs.: Leon Edwards vs. Nate Diaz – The fact that this fight is five rounds, actually makes me lean Nate Diaz. If it were three, it would be hard to see Leon Edwards lose, given his background, momentum and just Diaz’s past problems against wrestlers. However, those additional two rounds could be problematic. Not because Edwards hasn’t gone five rounds (twice), but because of all the head games that Diaz brings to the table. Throw in the crowd heavily favoring Diaz and it could be enough to make Edwards show moments of recklessness. Then again, Edwards has been nothing short of brilliant in the UFC. He also seems laser focused and even in the lead up to this fight, has shown nothing mentally that would cause you to be worried. Perhaps, I’m thinking too much into this and should just pick Edwards. But the hell with that, give me 209’s Diaz to win via decision.

    170 lbs.: Demian Maia vs. Belal Muhammad – This fight is a tough one to predict. We all know how talented both men are, it’s just a matter if Demian Maia has anything left in the tank at 44 years old. We know that Belal Muhammad is a workhorse, who mixes in his striking and wrestling excellently throughout a fight. With solid cardio and pace, Muhammad can grind opponents out for three rounds with no problem. Before his last fight against Leon Edwards, which ended in a no contest due to an eye poke, Muhammad had won four in a row and eight of his last nine. While a rematch against Edwards should of realistically happened, Muhammad deserved nothing less than high caliber in his next fight. He certainly got it, as Maia currently is second in UFC wins All-time to Donald Cerrone.

    As for a prediction, give me Maia. This prediction might flame out on me, but his last opponent in Gilbert Burns was one of the worst fights he could of taken. Burns not only too is a wizard on the ground, but his striking and power have become legitimate. Muhammad doesn’t have the power to knock Maia out, which should give the Brazilian more time to implement his game. Throw in the fact that Muhammad has yet to face a legitimate wrestler/grappler besides Leon Edwards, and there is an area of unknown in his takedown defense. So with that, I’m banking on Maia strength to pull out the upset via submission.

    205 lbs.: Paul Craig vs. Jamahal Hill – Pending Paul Craig pulls off some incredible submission, I don’t see him winning this fight. I don’t even see him making out of the first round. Craig has toppled three times in the first round before to strikers, make it four. Jamahal Hill looks to be the future at 205, and I see Craig as a stepping stone to getting him a top ten fight next. So with that, give me Hill to win via first round knockout.

    UFC 263 ‘Prelims’ Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Drew Dober vs. Brad Riddell – The UFC gets it right with matchmaking sometimes and this is one of those times. With Fight of the Night written all over this, I expect an absolute battle on the feet. That is if neither pulls out the wrestling card on each other, something that clearly they have had trouble against. Anyways, let’s not think negative thoughts. Let’s see this fight as a striking classic, one in which I have Drew Dober winning. Since 2016, Dober has won eight of his last eleven fights, knocking out five opponents in the process. A change in camps has resulted in a transformation that has turned Dober into a high volume striker, with excellent cardio and legit knockout power.

    Now, Brad Riddell is an excellent striker himself. He too offers volume, but doesn’t have the power to disrupt the fight on the feet. Dober does. I also believe, even though I don’t want too, that Dober will mix in some takedowns. Riddell has shown a strong ability to pop back up, but a clear lack of cardio when fighting off takedowns has come with that. Dober, being as conditioned as is would take advantage of that situation – one I do envision. So with that, I have Drew Dober winning via TKO.

    205 lbs.: Eryk Anders vs. Darren Stewart – The first fight between the two, I picked Darren Stewart. With the knowledge of seeing Eryk Anders dominate Stewart, only to halt the bout via illegal knee, I’m still siding with Stewart. The one concern I have is that this fight is at Light Heavyweight, so the naturally bigger man in Anders could be even scarier not having to cut the extra 20 pounds. The reason I’m going with Stewart is that he is the more consistent fighter. Anders has popped before in fights, and also laid an egg other times.

    If Anders 2.0 comes out again in this fight, the Middleweight or Light Heavyweight division might have itself a problem. If not, I expect the solid takedown defense, cardio, sneaky wrestling and power of Stewart to rise to the occasion. So with that, give me Stewart to win via TKO.

    125 lbs.: Joanne Calderwood vs. Lauren Murphy – When Joanne Calderwood is at her best, she is not only a handful, but the second best Flyweight in the division. However, plagued by inconsistent performances and momentary lapses, Calderwood has yet to fight for a title. This fight though is unquestionably, a title eliminator. Both are very deserving, especially Lauren Murphy, who enters this fight a winner of her last four. To boot, Murphy has even finished two of her opponents. With wrestling and excellent cardio, Murphy is the true definition of a workhorse. She’s also extremely durable, having never been finished in her professional career.

    In my eyes, I like Joanne Calderwood on the sole basis that she comes out like the talent she is. If she doesn’t, Murphy will overwhelm her for three rounds. I’m hoping for my prediction sake, Calderwood shows up and shows off her patented striking volume. So with that, give me Calderwood to win via decision.

    145 lbs.: Hakeem Dawodu vs. Movsar Evloev – I believe that Hakeem Dawodu is destined to become a contender at Featherweight, however three split decisions victories against opponents who spammed takedowns is a nice nod to Dawodu – but at the same time, a recipe for failure against someone who is a strong wrestler. Someone like Movsar Evloev. Who in four UFC fights, has landed 11 takedowns at a 37% clip. While I don’t see this fight being easy for either man, I do believe that Evloev will win a decision on takedowns and control.

    UFC 263 Early ‘Prelims’ Card On ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Alexis Davis vs. Pannie Kianzad – This is a good fight, but one I believe Pannie Kianzad wins. Should Kianzad be able to keep this fight upright, which she has done fantastically thus far, then realistically her striking should win this fight. Kianzad brings forth striking volume and really, each fight, an improvement in her overall abilities. So with that said, give me Kianzad to win via decision.

    155 lbs.: Matt Frevola vs. Terrence McKinney – At first, I was all over Matt Frevola in this spot. Then, I looked up Terrance McKinney and found he is a JUCO All-American wrestler and a hell of a striker. While it would be nice to see him win a fight past two rounds, I don’t believe he is complaining by getting most of his opponents out of there in one round. I’m just worried his cardio isn’t up to snuff because if it isn’t and he can’t get Frevola out of there early, a storm will be weathered by the excellent cardio of the Long Islander. Now, I believe that Frevola is the better all around fighter, but McKinney certainly has the skillset and power edge that scare me. While I normally don’t go with fighters coming in on short notice, I’m very intrigued by McKinney and I’m siding with him to win via KO.

    145 lbs.: Chase Hooper vs. Steven Peterson – I give Chase Hooper a lot of credit for getting to the UFC as young as he did. However, it’s clear as day, his striking isn’t UFC caliber. And that’s ok, if you can take opponents down and control them. Hooper though, hasn’t shown an ability to do that, as he boast a 7% takedown accuracy. In Hooper’s last two UFC fights, the inability to get the fight to mat lead to him getting tagged on the feet. I don’t see anything changing, as Steven Peterson boast solid takedown defense, good striking output and durability. In fact, I believe that Peterson will finish Hooper inside the distance via TKO.

    155 lbs.: Luigi Vendramini vs. Fares Ziam – This fight to me comes down to if Luigi Vendramini’s grappling chops are as good as touted. If so, he should have no issue taking down the striking technician Fares Ziam – who has been taken down eight times in two UFC fights. To me, I see a clear route to victory for the ‘Italian Stallion’ via decision.

    265 lbs.: Jake Collier vs. Carlos Felipe – I’m leaning Carlos Felipe here. He’s the natural Heavyweight, as Jake Collier was fighting at Middleweight just a little over five years ago. Throw in the fact that he most recently fought and beat a bloated Light Heavyweight in Gian Villante, and I’m concerned that his questionable durability at this weight class is heightened. I mean, he did get finished in 45 seconds by Tom Aspinall – which was the fourth defeat via finish out of his five losses.

    Felipe boast excellent durability and pretty good cardio for a Heavyweight. What he has lacked, is finishing power – something that he was known for coming into the UFC. Despite that, I believe it takes little to put out Collier in this division. So with that, I have Felipe winning via knockout.

  • UFC Fight Night 189: Rozenstruik vs. Sakai Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 189: Rozenstruik vs. Sakai Predictions

    UFC Fight Night: Rozenstruik vs. Sakai June 5 Exclusively on ESPN+ - ESPN Press Room U.S.

    After a rare week off, the UFC is back in action, as the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada plays host to what could be a card filled with finishes. Headlining the event is a pair of Heavyweight hopefuls in Jairzinho Rozenstruik and Augusto Sakai. Both men enter this fight off losses, but due to prior success, they have positioned themselves in high order as they garner the main event. A win here is essential for both, as the Heavyweight division is tough one to fight for the belt. For one, the Champion only defends the belt seemingly two times a year at most. So winning is a must. As for this main event, it should be a fun one. You have Rozenstruik, who has legitimate one punch knockout power and Sakai, who overwhelms and finishes opponents with volume. In what should be a good one, I’m not so sure it last five rounds – so don’t blink!

    UFC Fight Night 189 Main Card On ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Jairzinho Rozenstruik vs. Augusto Sakai – This is an interesting main event. Jairzinho Rozenstruik is the better fighter, as he has one punch knockout power to go with durability, excellent striking defense and stout takedown defense. His issue though is a hesitancy to let his hands go and it showed in his last fight against Cyril Gane. Meanwhile, Augusto Sakai is a workhorse on the feet, overwhelming opponents with sheer volume more times than not. With good cardio and durability too, Sakai is a problem for most Heavyweights. The issue in this fight though for me with Sakai, is that this is five rounds. With his volume and attacking style, you’re telling me that he’s going to avoid a clean strike from Rozenstruik? Unfortunately, I think not. So with that, give me Rozenstruik to get back in the winner’s circle via knockout.

    265 lbs.: Walt Harris vs. Marcin Tybura – I like Walt Harris, I really do. I just can’t get behind him in this spot. If he doesn’t finish you in round one, then his cardio just leads him to defeat. In fact, in his fifteen UFC fights, only twice has he gone to a decision. He lost both of them. On the other hand, Marcin Tybura enters this fight on a four fight win streak, with a renewed confidence. His chin has been suspect in the past, but during this win streak, he’s eaten some hard shots from power punchers. It’s not overly concerning to me, but I am wary Harris certainly can put the lights out. However like I said before, Harris is a one round fighter and Tybura is going to eat that up. With a good mix of striking, clinch work and wresting, I fully expect Tybura to drag this fight into deep waters and submit Harris.

    185 lbs.: Roman Dolidze vs. Laureano Staropoli – I actually believe that Laureano Staropoli might be the better fight, especially considering the competition he’s fought thus far and the chin he’s showed. However, he’s moving up from Welterweight and Roman Dolidze moved down from Light Heavyweight. That to me just feels like Dolidze is going to be way bigger and stronger, which is going to be a big problem should Dolidze decide (key words) to use his grappling. Given that I’m going with him to win via submission, I do believe he does fight smart I suppose.

    170 lbs.: Miguel Baeza vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio – It’s a real shame that injuries halted the rise of Santiago Ponzinibbio. He lost valuable years and time in the octagon, and in reality, a legit chance to fight for the belt. I mean, before his last fight, Ponzinibbio had won seven straight and nine of his last ten. With finishes over Court McGee, Gunnar Nelson and Neil Magny, the Argentinian was a legit contender. Unfortunately a return to the octagon against Li Jingliang didn’t go well, as Ponzinibbio got knocked out in round one. Enter Miguel Baeza as the next opponent for Ponzinibbio and it could be a tough go. The one thing I will say though that helps Ponzinibbio, is that while Baeza has knockout power, he doesn’t throw combinations really. If he can avoid the big punch, he could very well do what he does best, outland opponents and win.

    I’m not ready to write off Ponzinibbio, but this is a tough fight either way you slice it. Baeza has shown to have excellent power and he also boast a legit ground game. I believe he is going to land something that changes the complexion of the fight, aiding him to locking up a submission victory.

    185 lbs.: Gregory Rodrigues vs. Dusko Todorovic – This fight isn’t going the distance and I’m teetering on a pick. Gregory Rodrigues may not look like the best striker, in part because he’s a wizard on the ground, but he throws hands and has legit power. His chin however is a concern. As for Dusko Todorovic, he was very hyped entering the UFC and Punahele Soriano kind of halted the hype train a bit. Todorovic is notably a workhorse, boasting cardio, pace and striking volume. What he has lacked, is striking defense. That’s a huge red flag and recipe to get knocked out. It’s why I’m teetering in my prediction, as I believe with his stout takedown defense and volume should in essence, wear and eventually break down Rodrigues.

    In reality, this fight comes down to who’s chin last the longest and that’s a crapshoot. However, a prediction must be made and I will go with Dusko Todorovic, who enters this fight with a full camp as opposed to Rodrigues who is on short notice. I’ll say Dusko wins via TKO.

    185 lbs.: Antonio Arroyo vs. Tom Breese – If Tom Breese is mentally in the right place, he should take this fight. If not, Antonio Arroyo will most likely capitalize. However, Arroyo’s last fight showed he has little to no takedown defense and a bad gas tank. If anything, Breese offers cardio and perhaps if on the feet Arroyo is getting the better of him – we could be in store for his first UFC takedown. I mean it shouldn’t be hard to get, especially in the later rounds. So with that, give me Breese to win via decision.

    UFC Fight Night 189 Prelims Card On ESPN+ (4 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs.: Makwan Amirkhani vs. Kamuela Kirk – It’s hard to trust Makwan Amirikhani, but this step down in competition should aid him here. Now, Kamuela Kirk looks the part and has shown to be a solid grappler, but I’m not sure he’s ready for ‘Mr. Finland’. With experience, decent striking and a strong top game, I believe that Amirikhani will bounce back here and win via TKO.

    125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Ariane Lipski – I feel like Montana De La Rosa has fought the who’s who, and while she has slipped up on a lot of fights – a willingness to win and overall improvements has glistened in each fight. While Ariane Lipski comes in with a vast experience in striking, she has struggled with her takedown defense. That weakness will be exploited and I firmly believe that De La Rosa will dominate on the ground – eventually locking in a fight ending submission.

    265 lbs.: Tanner Boser vs. Ilir Latifi – Honestly, I’m not sure. On one end, I see Tanner Boser who is bigger, just using his reach and leg kicks to pepper Ilir Latifi for three rounds. On the other end, I see Latifi using his wrestling and strength to neutralize Boser’s striking volume. Given I’m at a stalemate, give me the upset minded Latifi to win via decision.

    170 lbs.: Muslim Salikhov vs. Francisco Trinaldo – It’s crazy to believe that this will be Francisco Trinaldo’s twenty third UFC fight. The Brazilian debuted in 2012, and has never lost back-to-back fights. Given the level of competition he has faced, that’s somewhat hard to believe. However, the 42 year old enters this fight on a three fight winning streak and quite frankly, given his move up to Welterweight, he might be better with renewed cardio here. In fact, I believe he upsets Muslim Salikhov. The reason behind this prediction is that Salikhov doesn’t have the volume to swarm or overwhelm Trinaldo. He also hasn’t faced anyone who’s a grappler and physically strong since Alex Garcia – a fight he lost. If Trinaldo can mix in some takedowns or push Salikhov against the fence for periods of time, I believe he walks away the winner via decision.

    155 lbs.: Mason Jones vs. Alan Patrick – If anything, Alan Patrick is physically very strong and if he gets his hands on you, he most likely will take you down. However, injuries have slowed down his career and with age, his durability is questionable at best. Mason Jones though is an exciting fighter, who throws hands and with bad intentions. He might not have the best takedown defense and probably will get taken down by Patrick early, but his cardio and Patrick’s lack thereof will eventually come into play. When that point hits, Jones will tee off on Patrick, finishing the Brazilian for his first UFC victory via TKO.

    125 lbs.: Manon Fiorot vs. Tabatha Ricci – Anything can happen, but the fact that Tabatha Ricci enters this on short notice against an absolute tank in Manon Fiorot, doesn’t spell well for her. In fact, I see this fight ending early, with Fiorot winning via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Sean Woodson vs. Youssef Zalal – This fight comes down to Sean Woodson’s takedown defense. Should he keep this fight upright, then on the feet his volume alone will carry him to a decision victory. However, if Youssef Zalal can get this to the ground, the route to victory is there for the ‘Moroccan Devil’. Wrestling is always factor, but Zalal isn’t exactly world class. I do believe perhaps he can land a few, but nothing that impacts the fact that Woodson outlands him on the feet for a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Jordan Leavitt vs. Claudio Puelles – Neither men are strikers, so I don’t expect this fight to take place much on the feet. On the mat is where both of these men live, and I don’t have a read whom may better – other than the fact that Jordan Leavitt track record shows he will attack submissions from wherever. That’s a dangerous attribute to have, one in which will nab Leavitt his second UFC win via submission.

  • UFC Fight Night 188: Font vs. Garbrandt Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 188: Font vs. Garbrandt Predictions

    UFC Fight Night: Font vs. Garbrandt May 22 Exclusively on ESPN+ - ESPN Press Room U.S.

    The UFC is back in action, as the APEX in Las Vegas, Nevada plays host to yet another UFC card. Headlining the event is former Bantamweight Champion Cody Garbrandt and contender Rob Font. Both men seek UFC gold and this certainly is a fight that puts them one step closer. In what should be a fun striking battle, I’ll be interested to to see who gets the better of each other on the feet.

    UFC Vegas 27 Main Card On ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Rob Font vs. Cody Garbrandt – This is a great main event and it should be a fun striking affair. I however have Rob Font winning. The Massachusetts native has strung together three wins, with the last being a decimation of former title challenger Marlon Moraes. Font brings forth excellent striking and cardio, and the ability to pop back up when taken down. Against Cody Garbrandt, I don’t think Font has to worry about being taken down, as Garbrandt has landed 1 takedown in his last eight fights. He does have to worry about Garbrandt’s power though, as the former Bantamweight Champion not only packs a punch, but is always looking to knock out his foes. Which, has cost him fights, big ones at that.

    As for my reasoning of picking Font, it’s due to his cardio, striking and fight IQ. The last two in particular weigh heavy on Garbrandt. Font won’t wing punches or be wild, he is technical and lands often. Garbrandt too is technical in ways, but has that wildman switch – completely abandoning his fundamentals. In the end, this should be a great fight, but one in which I have Font walking away the winner by 4th round TKO.

    115 lbs.: Carla Esparza vs. Yan Xiaonan – The tough part about this fight is trying to figure out if when Carla Esparza takes this fight to ground, can she keep it there. I think no, partially because Yan Xiaonan has already shown against a physically strong Claudia Gadelha the ability to get up and then withstand takedowns. Xiaonan’s volume striking, pace and cardio is her strength’s. One’s in which should easily carry her in this fight should Esparza struggle to get this fight to the ground. In the end, give me Xiaonan to win a decision.

    265 lbs.: Justin Tafa vs. Jared Vanderaa – Two bottom of the barrel Heavyweight… Tafa wins this via KO.

    145 lbs.: Felicia Spencer vs. Norma Dumont – With all do respect to Norma Dumont, there are levels to this game and Felicia Spencer just happens to be at a higher level. The Canadian is clearly the second best Featherweight in the UFC. If given another crack at Cris Cyborg, she could be the second best Featherweight in the world. The one big problem is that Amanda Nunes is levels ahead of her, and she’s stuck in the territory that Joseph Benavidez was in for years. As for this fight, give me Spencer to win via submission.

    185 lbs.: Jack Hermansson vs. Edmen Shahbazyan – This fight is a tough call because if Edmen Shahbazyan mentally has recovered from the Derek Brunson beatdown, then I favor him over a very solid Jack Hermansson. The reasoning behind that is simply because Shahbazyan is the complete package. He has the wrestling, grappling and striking to make a real run in this division. It’s mentally where he needs to solidify. Now, I could be dead wrong here. Hermansson could pump that jab on the feet, take the fight to the ground and completely dominate the kid. However, I’m going side that Shahbazyan is back. And say that the kid wins via decision.

    145 lbs.: Bill Algeo vs. Ricardo Ramos – This could be your fight of the night, as the scrambles, submission attempts and strikes should be a plenty. The one factor that has me siding with Bill Algeo is cardio and pace. He has shown the ability to outlast his opponent, something in which I could see happening in a fight that will demand cardio – something that Ramos has shown to be just ‘ok’. In the end, I’ll go with Algeo to win via decision.

    UFC Vegas 27 Prelims Under Card On ESPN+ (4 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Ben Rothwell vs. Chris Barnett – While Ben Rothwell hasn’t been great since coming back off his suspension, he’s still shown that he has an iron chin. Thrown in his daunting size, pressure and his sneaky submission ability and I think this is too much for the short notice foe Chris Barnett. While popular on the regional scene, Barnett hasn’t exactly beaten anyone notable of late. At 5’9, ‘Beast Boy’ will have to overcome a seven inch height difference. In other words, I don’t think this ends well for him. In fact, I believe Rothwell notches a knockout victory here.

    170 lbs.: Court McGee vs. Claudio Silva – This is a tough call, as you have two aging veterans going at it. Claudio Silva enters this fight at age 39 and off his first UFC loss to James Krause. Before that, the Brazilian was a perfect 5-0 since joining the UFC in 2014. A win over Leon Edwards is perhaps the highlight of that streak. For Court McGee, it’s been tough sledding of late. The American has dropped three straight, but has been competitive in those bouts. His problem consists in his inability to muster up striking defense and perhaps some ‘respect’ power. Besides that, McGee’s durability, volume striking, pace and cardio has stayed true every fight. Against a gas guzzler like Silva, who is very reliant on finishing a fight on the mat early, those tangibles should help McGee edge out this fight in latter part of the fight. So with that, give me McGee via decision in a close one.

    125 lbs.: Victor Rodriguez vs. Bruno Silva – After being thrown to the wolves early, Bruno Silva got a step down in competition and dominated J.P. Buys for his first UFC win. A second win however is coming up, as the talented Brazilian will get this fight to mat, where he will lock in a fight ending submission.

    145 lbs.: Josh Culibao vs. Shayilan Nuerdanbieke – Given the iffy competition Shayilan Nuerdanbieke has fought coming into this debut and more or less if he has talent, I’m siding with Josh Culibao. The Aussie fought to a draw recently against a solid Charles Jourdain, so if anything, this seemingly is a step down in competition. So with that, give me Josh Culibao to win via decision.

    125 lbs.: David Dvorak vs. Juancamilo Ronderos – David Dvorak’s change of opponents here only give me more confidence that he extends his win streak to 16. Juancamilo Ronderos just doesn’t have the experience for me to believe on short notice that he can halt Dvorak’s momentum. So with that, I have Dvorak winning via decision.

    155 lbs.: Rafael Alves vs. Damir Ismagulov – Rafael Alves is flashy striker, who has the ability to put out anyone. However, Damir Ismagulov is well rounded and has shown thus far to be a difficult task on the feet and on the ground. I don’t foresee Ismagulov losing in this spot, I really don’t. So with that, give me Ismagulov to win via decision.