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  • UFC on ESPN 9: Woodley vs. Burns Predictions

    UFC on ESPN 9: Woodley vs. Burns Predictions

    The UFC is back in action, live from the Apex in Las Vegas! Headlining the event is the return of the former Welterweight King Tyron Woodley against the rising Welterweight contender in Gilbert Burns. Woodley looks refreshed and ready to reclaim his throne, but Burns whom just finished Demain Maia is no stepping stepping. He is a contender and will be in the mix should he win. Either way, this should be a fun one.

    UFC Fight Night Main Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (9 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Tyron Woodley vs. Gilbert Burns – This is a really fun fight and I’m not sure what to expect. I mean, Woodley hasn’t fought in over a year since losing his title. He was supposed to take on Leon Edwards, but that fight was cancelled due to the coronavirus. Now he finds himself against a hungry Gilbert Burns, who is riding a five fight win streak. Three of those victories have come at Welterweight, which has been successful move thus far by Burns. His most recent fight came against Demain Maia, where Burns became the first fighter since Nate Marquardt in 2009 to stop Maia.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Woodley. The man seems to be in a fighting first mentality and despite being 38 years old, his skill set is a handful for any fighter. While Burns has shown legit striking chops aided by some power, he doesn’t have the explosiveness or legit bombs that Woodley features. Burns is also a BJJ specialist, but Woodley’s 92% takedown defense is going to be a beast to crack. In the end, I envision this fight takes place on the feet and while both men will get their licks in. It’s Woodley’s power that ends this. So with that, I have Woodley winning via knockout.

    265 lbs.: Blagoy Ivanov vs. Augusto Sakai – This is interesting given the smaller cage. I also feel like this fight is going to get sloppy at some point. Not because they lack skill, but because they are so durable. I expect the gas tanks to run empty by the third round, with probably Sakai being the fresher of the two. In the end. Ivanov’s counters I believe will be the more significant blows of the fight, thus giving him the decision victory.

    150 lbs.: Billy Quarantillo vs. Spike Carlyle (Catchweight) – I smell either a fight of the night or an early finish. Both men are finishers by nature, with Quarantillo riding a five fight finishing streak and Carlyle with three consecutive first round finishes. The big difference in this fight for me is how big and powerful Carlyle is. The man’s got legit power. And as long as he keeps this fight on the feet, which I believe he can, he’s going to eventually land a finishing blow. So with that, I’ve got Carlyle taking this fight via TKO

    155 lbs.: Roosevelt Roberts vs. Brok Weaver – I think Roberts rolls here. He’s too well rounded for Weaver. Aside from toughness, Weaver doesn’t exactly stand out in any one area. Roberts however has showed it all thus far in the UFC. He mixed his wrestling in well with his striking, resulting thus far in three UFC victories. Make it four, as Roberts wins via submission.

    125 lbs.: Mackenzie Dern vs. Hannah Cifers – I love the scrappiness of Cifers. Her toughness, pressure and volume striking can give any fighter fits, especially those with a limited gas tank. However, Dern is going to have a significant size advantage over the rather small Cifers. That size advantage is everything, as Dern’s power shots and overall strength are going get this fight to fight to mat. From there, the heavy top control of Dern is going to lock up a fight ending submission.

    UFC Fight Night ‘Prelims’ Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Katlyn Chookagian vs. Antonina Shevchenko – This fight should take place mainly on the feet and is going to come down to who will strike with more volume. In my opinion, Chookagian has been erratic with her volume. Of her nine UFC fights, she has landed 70 or more strikes in three fights, with 105 being the most. Her last two victories have been the other two times, so a corner appears to have been turned. Shevchenko is solid, but I’m not seeing enough volume out of her or a wrestling game to give me some concerns of not picking Chookagian via decision.

    170 lbs.: Daniel Rodriguez vs. Gabriel Green – Think this is a little too short of notice for Green. Rodriguez is a killer, whom finished Tim Means in his debut. I see Rodriguez throwing those power shots early and catching Green, eventually winning via TKO.

    205 lbs.: Klidson Abreu vs. Jamahal Hill – This fight is an interesting one. Abreu can strike, but is more of a grappler and submission artist. If he can get this fight to the mat, I like his chances. Hill is a striker all the way, and a dam good one. While his takedown defense was iffy in his debut, he did get up each time and landed over 100 strikes. In the end, I think Hill gets it done. Abreu likes to stand and trade too long, and I believe Hill will keep his distance and pick apart the Brazilian for a decision victory,

    125 lbs.: Tim Elliott vs. Brandon Royval – This fight is going to be frantic and fought at a high pace. Elliott is one of the most exciting fighters in the Flyweight division. His scrambles are bar none. However, Elliott has dropped three of his last four fights and desperately needs a win. The one thing that irks me about Elliott is his ability to put himself in disadvantageous positions and get submitted. Now, that could happen here, as Royval has won by submission in six of his ten victories. However, Royval is taking this on short notice and Elliott is seasoned pro. In the end, I have Elliott winning via submission.

    135 lbs.: Casey Kenney vs. Louis Smolka – This is going to be no contest. Smolka had his run at Flyweight, but at Bantamweight, I just don’t see the success being the same. Kenney is a stud and has already fought and beaten some top fighters. His grappling skills are excellent and are what I see him implementing heavily in this fight. So with that, I have Kenney wining via submission.

    145 lbs.: Chris Gutierrez vs. Vince Morales – Not too familiar with both men, but I’ll go with Gutierrez via decision.

  • UFC On ESPN 8: Overeem vs. Harris Predictions

    UFC On ESPN 8: Overeem vs. Harris Predictions

    The UFC has delivered three fight cards in a one week span, with this one rounding out the eventful week. I must say, as a huge fan of mixed martial arts and the world pandemic shutting down the world, this has been refreshing to say the least. All the fights have been fun and I have no doubt this card will be any different. The headliner features Alistair Overeem and Walt Harris. Two strikers with one intention in mind, to knockout their opponent. With big power showcased by both men, my suggestion is to not blink!

    UFC Fight Night Main Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (9 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Alistair Overeem vs. Walt Harris – Heavyweight fights are usually a gamble to pick. These men have so much power, that all it truly takes, is one strike to end anyone’s night. Overeem is coming off a defeat, in which he was up on the scorecards after four rounds and just before the fifth round was about to end, his foe Jairzinho Rozenstruik landed a haymaker that halted the fight. While Overeem was rocked, he did pop up quickly and perhaps the stoppage was too soon albeit the visually disturbing lip hanging off Overeem’s face. With that said, Overeem was on a two fight win streak prior to the loss and was climbing his way back into contendership.

    As for Harris, it’s been a tough road back to octagon. After riding high, unbeaten in his last four fights, Harris’s world came crashing down as his stepdaughter was sadly kidnapped and murdered. The hurt in his heart and the fact that he’s back fighting is truly inspirational. I can’t imagine how hard it’s going to be to step into that octagon and carry that type of sadness.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Overeem. While he’s susceptible to being put away, he’s done a much better job of fighting smart for the most part. Had he avoided that big bomb as time nearly expired by Rozenstruik, he’d be on a three fight win streak and right back into the title picture. The Demolition man has the perhaps the best striking and most dangerous knees in the Heavyweight division. His wrestling is hidden gem as well. Due to fighting so long, durability is his only real weakness. The reason I have him winning is while Harris is explosive and features legit power, he’s yet to fight anyone remotely close to Overeem. That’s not to say he can’t win, cause that athleticism is definitely an issue for Overeem to deal with. However, I’m not sure he’s ready for the caliber striking Overeem offers. With that said, Overeem wins the fight via knockout.

    115 lbs.: Claudia Gadelha vs. Angela Hill – This fight comes down to two scenarios. Either Hill, keeps this fight upright and outpoints Gadelha, especially in the the later rounds. OR… Gadelha uses her strength and wrestling advantages to get this fight to the mat, and suffocates Hill with top control. I’ll say the latter, which is tougher for me to say than usual. I mean, Hill has looked so good during this three fight win streak. She’s got excellent striking and it’s showed of late with two of those wins during the win streak coming via KO/TKO. However, she’s had issues with grapplers in the past and Gadelha is one of the best the division offers in that regard. I’m a little wary of Gadelha of late, but Mark Henry I believe will honey her skill set for the better. So with that, I have Gadelha winning via decision.

    145 lbs.: Edson Barboza vs. Dan Ige – Man this is a fun fight and an interesting one at that. Barboza was a stable in the Lightweight division, so its intriguing to see how he fares at Featherweight. Those extra ten pounds are no joke to cut, and this late into you’re career could be trouble. However, he didn’t look terrible at weigh ins. As for Ige, while he didn’t get the Korean Zombie, he got a former Lightweight contender in Barboza. Ige is riding a five fight win streak and is truly coming into his own. A grappler by trade, Ige has showed vast improvements in his striking. I must say, if he can beat Barboza, the sky’s the limit for this kid.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Barboza. He’s fought The Who’s who at Lightweight and was constant in the rankings. Barboza is durable, has perhaps the best leg kicks in the UFC and overall is a dynamic striker. While Ige is on the rise, I feel like this is too soon and a big jump up in competition. So with that, I have Barboza winning via decision.

    185 lbs.: Eryk Anders vs. Krzysztof Jotko – While Jotko is well rounded and has bounced back from his losing streak with two consecutive wins, I feel like this is a tough fight. Anders is athletic, he’s got legit power and has good takedown defense. While Jotko could stay on the outside and pick apart Anders, I feel like the power of the former Alabama Crimson Tide is going to play a big role here. So with that, I have Anders winning via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Marlon Vera vs. Song Yadong – This is a tough fight to call. Vera is on fire right now, winning five straight fights via finish. Vera is armed with slick grappling and pressure striking. Wherever the fight goes, Vera shows comfortability. At 27 years of age, Vera already has already accumulated 9 UFC victories. As for Yadong, the Chinese born fighter has been fighting since he was sixteen years old. While his early career featured highs and lows, an over three year unbeaten streak that includes 7 victories has him on the rise. Armed with solid takedown defense, strength and power, Yadong has the makings of a Featherweight contender within the next year.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Yadong. If he can avoid the grappling of Vera, I feel as if his power and precision can be the difference. Since Vera has incredible durability, I don’t see a knockout, but a Yadong via decision

    UFC Fight Night Prelims Card On ESPN/ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Matt Brown vs. Miguel Baeza – This fight has all the making of a young lion upstaging an older lion. However, the older lion, Brown has fought the cream of the crop. Albeit being 39 years old, Brown is a tough out for anyone. He’s the definition of grit and toughness. And I feel that when he fought Donald Cerrone, he looked better than ever despite losing. The knockout victories over Diego Sanchez and Ben Saunders that followed were vicious. Add one more for the veteran, as I got Brown winning via TKO.

    185 lbs.: Anthony Hernandez vs. Kevin Holland – This is a tough fight to call, just because of the inconsistencies of Holland. He’s a hell of a fighter and well rounded, but his inability to avoid disadvantageous positions is a problem. That hole in his game won’t fly in the top fifteen. With that being said, I’m hoping Hollan shores that up in this fight and I’m siding with him via decision.

    145 lbs.: Giga Chikadze vs. Irwin Rivera – Kudos to Rivera for stepping up, but this is too much too soon. Given he wasn’t training for a fight and is moving up a weight class to fight a world class kickboxer in Chikadze, and I smell a knockout. So with that, I have Chikadze winning via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Darren Elkins vs. Nate Landwehr – This is an intriguing fight. Landwehr is a fun striker and a former M-1 Champion. Unfortunately, he didn’t get to showcase much as Herbert Burns landed a sick flying knee knockout on him. As for Elkins, the once near title contender is trying to end a three fight skid. At one point, Elkins had rattled off six consecutive victories, but a defeat to current Featherweight Champion Alexander Volkanovski halted the streak and began this losing streak.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Elkins. His nickname “Damage” couldn’t be more appropriate, as he wears it every fight. He also weathers all that damage in fights and is the comeback king. Elkins isn’t the best striker, but its serviceable. It’s his wrestling and grappling that aide him to victory. Well, his durability and cardio too. So with that, I see Elkins landing some timely takedowns to edge out a decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Mara Romero Borella vs. Cortney Casey – Despite going up a weight class, losing three out of her last four fights and fighting a grappler here, I got Casey winning this fight. She’s fought world class talent at Strawweight and is a couple of split decision victories away from being on a title shot path. That being said, Casey might get taken down. However, between her output on the ground and submissions, I can’t see Borella winning anything but time on top. So with that, I have Casey winning via decision.

    265 lbs.: Don’Tale Mayes vs. Rodrigo Nascimento – This fight ain’t going the distance. Seeing that Mayes takedown defense is somewhat suspect, I see the grappler Nascimento getting this fight to the mat and at some point winning via submission.

  • UFC Fight Night 171: Smith vs. Teixeira Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 171: Smith vs. Teixeira Predictions

    After a hell of a UFC 249 card, the UFC is back action four days later with an action packed Fight Night. The card is headlined by two title contenders in Anthony Smith and Glover Teixeira. Both men eager to get a second crack at Jon Jones, will first have to square off in an all important fight. The winner undoubtedly will be in the mix, and perhaps one fight away from another title shot. If there is anything to say about this fight, both men are finishers and there is no way this goes the full five.

    UFC Fight Night Main Card On ESPN+ (9 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Anthony Smith vs. Glover Teixeira – This is an excellent main event and one in which the winner most likely finds themselves in a number one contenders fight next. For Smith, the move up to Light Heavyweight has been a great choice. A 4-1 record, with four finishes over some big names like Alexander Gustafsson. Throw in a title fight against Jon Jones, in which he went the full five with the champ. For Teixeira, the 40 year old has strung together three straight victories, two via finish. Perhaps many have written off the former title challenger, but he clearly is still fighting for another chance at the belt.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Teixeira. While Smith has youth and confidence on his side, his slow starts worry me. He is the comeback king and his nickname of Lionheart could never be more true. In adversity, the man weathers the storm and fights through what others would fold too. Teixeira though, while losing his speed still packs a punch, has a solid chin and is grappling wizard. He’s already staged off retirement and young lions before, why not one more. So with that, I believe Teixeira will come out early with heavy shots that drop Smith. A shaken Smith then will succumb to Teixeira’s excellent submissions.

    265 lbs.: Ben Rothwell vs. Ovince Saint Preux – Gosh this is a tough fight to pick. Rothwell is a natural Heavyweight with legit power and a sneaky standing submission game. He however has looked iffy in his last three fights since returning from a three year layoff. OSP is moving up from Light Heavyweight and I can’t help but to wonder what his cardio will look like now. OSP has relied on his athleticism on the feet, and his submissions have been his bread and butter.

    As for a prediction, I have OSP. I believe his athleticism on the feet should aide him against a somewhat slow Rothwell. In the end, I see OSP walking away with a decision victory.

    155 lbs.: Drew Dober vs. Alexander Hernandez – This is the best fight on the card. Dober has really come into his own, showing legit knockout power to already go with his volume striking. Dober’s last fight, a knockout victory over Nasrat Haqparast really caught some eyes. As long as Dober can keep the fight upright, his chin combined with his cardio and striking can go a long way in this division.

    As for Hernandez, two big UFC wins opened up his tenure with a bang. A call out and verbal attack on Donald Cerrone turned into an excellent fight that ended in a TKO defeat for Hernandez. However, “The Great” bounced back with a tough win over Francisco Trinaldo. He features power in his hands and solid wrestling.

    As for a prediction, if Hernandez can impose his wrestling on Dober and negate his striking, then I see a route to victory. If Hernandez fails to get this fight to the mat, Dober is going to piece him up and the later this fight goes, a tired Hernandez will succumb to Dober via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Ray Borg vs. Ricky Simon – Borg is an excellent grappler and a real iffy striker. At Flyweight, he’s a contender. At bantamweight, I fear he’s too small for most of the division. Simon is a workhorse. He’s a pressure fighter whom uses his striking to set up his wrestling. Which is his bread and butter.

    Over Simon’s last three UFC wins, he’s landed 17 takedowns. Borg too is a wrestler, landing 23 takedowns in his last three fights. Problem is, Borg gets taken down 50% of the time. Simon holds his own at 71%. Throw in the fact that Simon is a natural bantamweight and Borg is not, and the weight advantage should aid Simon in the wrestling department. When all is said, Simon wins this via decision.

    UFC Fight Night ‘Prelims’ Card On ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Andrei Arlovski vs. Philipe Lins – Arlovski is a legend and I will admit, his ability to avoid getting hit has improved. In the past, his chin was problematic. However, a change of fighting styles mixed in with wrestling has aided his ability to avoid that dreaded fight ending shot and win some decisions.

    This fight though, I feel like he can win with wrestling. However, knowing Arlovski, he will strike long enough to get caught by a very dangerous and confident striker in the debuting Philipe Lins. We’ll shall see though what Arlovski shows up, but I’ve got Lin’s winning this via TKO.

    155 lbs.: Michael Johnson vs. Thiago Moises – I’m not sure what has happened to Johnson lately, but this just seems like a fight he loses. Moises has some striking chops, but is talented grappler. If he can takedown Johnson, he’ll be able to control him and potentially submit him.

    And while I should pick Moises based on this, I got Johnson. He’s back at Lightweight, so that dreaded Featherweight cut is done with. His striking is some of the best, especially when he pressures his foe. If he can get back to how he fought Edson Barboza, then this would be a wrap. Anyways, I’ll take Johnson via decision.

    135 lbs.: Sijara Eubanks vs. Sarah Moras- Eubanks has been so inconsistent for someone so gifted. This particular fight she should dominate and finish Moras, but will she finally rise to the occasion? We’ll see. For now, I’ll go with Eubanks winning via decision.

    155 lbs.: Gabriel Benitez vs. Omar Morales – I haven’t seen enough of Morales, but the consensus is that he takes this fight. I however am going with Benitez, whom has vast UFC experience against some tough foes. Think he takes this via decision.

    145 lbs.: Hunter Azure vs. Brian Kelleher – While Azure faired well in his debut against a tough Brad Katona, I feel as if this next step in Kelleher is a tricky fight. Kelleher is a pressure fighter, whom brings forth volume striking and a sneaky guillotine choke. Azure is more of a patient striker whom will throw looping strikes. He’s got pretty good takedown defense to boot. In what I expect to be a tight fight, I’ll take Kelleher’s experience and volume in a decision victory.

    265 lbs.: Chase Sherman vs. Ike Villanueva – While Sherman had a rough first UFC stint, he’s back for a second go after rebounding on the regional scene. He’s tasked with a debuting slugger in Villanueva. I favor Sherman. He’s more technical, and he’s a natural Heavyweight. Villanueva fought as low as Middleweight. While he has experience against Heavyweights, I’m not sure he’s ready for the power Sherman carries. So with that, I have Sherman winning via knockout.

  • UFC 249: Ferguson vs. Gaethje Predictions

    UFC 249: Ferguson vs. Gaethje Predictions

    UFC 249 PPV Main Card On ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Tony Ferguson vs. Justin Gaethje for interim UFC Lightweight championship – While I’m gutted Khabib Nurmagomedov isn’t in this fight, I’m not at all upset that Justin Gaethje is stepping in. The man is first-team all violence. In six UFC fights, he’s picked up four Fight of the Night bonuses and two Performance of the Night bonuses. In other words, when Gaethje steps in the octagon, it’s bound to be a hell of a fight.

    The same can be said about Tony Ferguson. The uncrowned Champ. A winner of twelve consecutive fights, Ferguson is one of the best fighters to grace the octagon. He’s also part of the first-team all violence. He’s finished five of his last six fights and total of eleven in the UFC. Ferguson has also been a bonus machine, taking home five Fight of the Night bonuses and three Performance of the Night bonuses in his last eight fights.

    As for a prediction, I’ve got Ferguson. It’s a tough call, considering how good Gaethje is. I’m banking on the durability and scrambling ability of Ferguson to avoid the storm that is Gaethje. If for whatever reason he gets cracked and dropped, Ferguson’s guard game is downright scary. Just ask Kevin Lee. Ferguson tore up his face with elbows tally submitted him with a triangle choke. However, if this stays on the feet. It’s the unpredictability of Ferguson against the aggression and output of Gaethje. Anything can happen. However, I see Ferguson dragging this fight into deep waters, where he drops and submits a tired Gaethje.

    135 lbs.: Bantamweight champion Henry Cejudo vs. Dominick Cruz – This is a really fun fight and it’s refreshing to see Cruz back in the octagon. Now, this isn’t the best stylistic fight for guy who hasn’t fought in 3.5 years. Cejudo is an animal. He has Olympic level wrestling and legit striking, which has vastly improved each fight it seems. Cejudo is just so quick and with legit pop and his confidence growing, we could be in for the long Cejudo era.

    However, I’m going on a whim here and picking Cruz. The lay-off isn’t a big deal to me, as he’s been there and done that. I know it wasn’t against Cejudo, but Cruz bested Takeya Mizugaki and T.J. Dillashaw after over two month lay-offs. The wrestling isn’t going to entirely be there for Cruz, as Cejudo is world class. The striking though, is where I see Cruz edging Cejudo. I believe early on, Cejudo will get the better of Cruz. As the fight wanes on though, Cruz’s footwork and cardio will start to pick apart the Champion. In the end, Cruz takes an instant classic via split decision.

    265 lbs.: Francis Ngannou vs. Jairzinho Rozenstruik – It’s hard to break this fight down because either it’s a staring contest for three rounds or in the first minute somebody is out cold. I’m going with the latter. I believe while Rozenstruik is scary and has great kickboxing, Ngannou is just another type of scary. A man with the most ridiculous power in mma. Some say, Alistair Overeem’s head is still in orbit. So with that, I have Ngannou winning via knockout.

    145 lbs.: Jeremy Stephens vs. Calvin Kattar – I’m really bummed Stephens missed weight, but it should be an entertaining fight no less. Stephens is every sense of the word veteran. He’s gritty, well rounded and dam right scary. With power from the heavens, Stephens is tough out for anyone. However, Kattar is savage. It can be noted, Kattar has some best striking in the division period. With good footwork, cardio and technique, Kattar is of Championship merit. If you rewatch his last fight against Zabit Magomedsharipov, that third round was all Kattar. If that were a five round fight, Kattar is probably fighting Brian Ortega or the Korean Zombie in a number one contenders fight.

    Anyways, I believe Kattar is going to out-strike and out technique Stephens for three rounds. I could see a late finish, but Stephens is durable, so let’s just say Kattar via decision.

    265 lbs.: Greg Hardy vs. Yorgan de Castro – There’s a real chance this fight is disappointing. There’s a real chance de Castro sleeps Hardy. There’s also a real chance that de Castro knocked out a wild and overly aggressive Tafa and is vaulted into a fight against Hardy to make it seem competitive. While the latter isn’t entirely factual, I think holds some truths. So with that, I have Hardy winning via KO.

     

    UFC 249 Prelims on ESPN+/ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Donald Cerrone vs. Anthony Pettis – This is a rematch and I think perfect matchmaking. Cerrone has lost three fights in a row, meanwhile Pettis has dropped three of his last four. A win is crucial her for both gentlemen, as their inconsistencies have caught up to them. As for a prediction, I’ve got Cowboy. When he’s on, he’s a world beater. When he’s off, it’s practically over.

    However, this will be his first fight since being handled by Conor McGregor. Given the build up and what went down, Cerrone no doubts wants to erase that night from the memory bank. If I’m being honest, what happened was sad and embarrassing in a way. I’m not sold Cerrone is done just yet, and a I think if he wants to keep fighting names, he’s got to start turning it on now. So with that, I have Cerrone winning via decision.

    265 lbs.: Fabricio Werdum vs. Aleksei Oleinik – I’m interested in this fight, but only if it hits the ground. Werdum is miles above Oleinik in the striking department. I mean, Oleinik shows zero striking technique, often throwing looping overhands in order to get inside and grapple. Given Werdum’s lay-off, it might work, but I don’t see it. I see Werdum dropping Oleinik several times and TKO’n him on the ground. I will say though, I hope we see some grappling here. Both men are exceptional.

    115 lbs.: Carla Esparza vs. Michelle Waterson – While Waterson has vastly improved, I do feel at times she is undersized. Esparza is a solid Strawweight, with a perfect base and exceptional wrestling. She is also a smart fighter, whom is a willing striker in moments. Esparza can embrace the brawl, but does so when her opponent is clearly more gassed then her. I think when all is said, Esparza’s wrestling earns her a clear cut decision victory.

    170 lbs.: Vicente Luque vs. Niko Price – Honestly, anything fancy happen in this fight. Both men have the power and finishing instinct to knockout anyone on any given day. However, I believe Luque is the better striker and has the durability factor. Price has been finished several times, including to Luque. Make twice to Luque, as the Brazilian walks away with a TKO victory.

    UFC 249 Early Prelims On ESPN+/Fight Pass (6:30 p.m. ET):

    145 lbs: Bryce Mitchell vs. Charles Rosa – Fun fight, but Thug Nasty is on the rise. I just feel this fight is going to be grappling heavy, in which I favor Mitchell. I mean, Rosa is a stud. He came off a near 30 month layoff to submit a submission wiz and rising prospect in Manny Bermudez. However, I feel like if he can’t keep Mitchell from clinching, then his high work rate striking isn’t going to edge him out the rounds. So with that, on the heels of his grappling, I’m siding with Mitchell via decision.

    185 lbs.: Sam Alvey vs. Ryan Spann – Alvey is on a three fight skid, in which he has suffered two stoppages. Meanwhile, Spann has won seven fights in a row, three of which are in the UFC and the last two being stoppages. Think this is clear cut, Spann controls the fight wherever it goes and ultimately stops Alvey via TKO.

  • UFC Fight Night 170: Lee vs. Oliveira Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 170: Lee vs. Oliveira Predictions

    With seemingly all of sports shut down due to the coronavirus, the UFC remains as one of the only continuing on. However, there is a caveat. No fans will be in attendance. A strange thought for any sport, as fans are the reason these athletes compete. They feed off their energy, good or bad. It’s going to be an odd scene as a viewer and for the athletes competing for sure. For us fans, we are lucky to be distracted with this fight card. Headlining the event is two Lightweight contenders in former title challenger Kevin Lee and the red hot all-time UFC submission leader Charles Oliveira. The winner is all but assured a big upcoming fight.

    UFC Fight Night 170 Main Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

    155 lbs.: Kevin Lee vs. Charles Oliveira – This is a hell of a main event and I’m conflicted. Lee rebounded tremendously with a masterful performance and knockout again the previously undefeated Gregor Gillespie. He’s such a talent. I can’t say if it’s fight IQ that has harped him or his competition is just better. I mean, I see Championship qualities.

    As for Oliveira, six wins in a row, all via stoppage. A fight against a top ranked foe is long overdue for the UFC all-time submission leader Oliveira. Perhaps, as he enters his 30’s, he has hit his prime.

    As for a prediction, I have Lee. He missed weight, which does concern me in a five round fight. But, I still have hopes for the talent to use timely wrestling and his striking to wear down and eventually finish Oliveira via TKO.

    170 lbs.: Demian Maia vs. Gilbert Burns – This is an excellent fight and I’m curious to see if Maia can fend off these young guns still. He’s such a strong grappler with arguably the best submission ability in mixed martial arts. However, Burns too is strong and too has excellent grappling and submission ability. What he excels at over Maia by a mile is striking, which is why I’m picking him. So with that, Burns wins via decision.

    155 lbs.: Renato Moicano vs. Damir Hadzovic – No contest, Moicano via submission quick.

    205 lbs.: Johnny Walker vs. Nikita Krylov – This should be fireworks out of the gate. Two Bonafide finishers, one who’s well rounded in Krylov and the other is a dynamic striker in Walker. Even though Walker’s hype train was halted momentarily in his last fight, you gotta love his crazy fighting style. However, his crazy open style leaves him open to getting cracked or taken down. What the hell am I saying, Walker wins this via KO.

    155 lbs.: Francisco Trinaldo vs. John Makdessi – Trinaldo is going to have his way here. He’s a physical brute, good on the feet with legit power and if he’s in top control, good luck getting up. Makdessi has some tricky striking, but his volume isn’t there. I expect Trinaldo to control wherever this fight takes place and win ultimately via decision.

    UFC Fight Night 170 Prelims Card on ESPN/ESPN+ (3 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Jussier Formiga vs. Brandon Moreno – Formiga has never won the big one to grant him a title shot and it’s not happening here. Moreno is a dog. Relentless on the feet, a scrambling machine on the ground and cardio for days. He’s a matchup problem for anyone and especially against a guy who can’t get over the hump. So with that, I have Moreno winning via decision.

    115 lbs.: Amanda Ribas vs. Randa Markos – Love Markos. She’s my dark horse of the division, but in 13 UFC bouts, she’s yet to win two in a row. I need to see consistency and Ribas in my opinion, has the ability to be a future contender. Well rounded, physically strong and good cardio. This should be her fight…Ribas via decision.

    170 lbs.: Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos vs. Aleksei Kunchenko – dos Santos has too much of an all around game for the strictly striker Kunchenko to handle. dos Santos rolls via decision.

    135 lbs.: Enrique Barzola vs. Rani Yahya – I’m conflicted about this fight. Barzola is well rounded, but isn’t a specialist in any one area. Yayha however is a grappling and submission specialist. The striking is starting to become more serviceable to boot. Problem is Yayha’s cardio in the later rounds, but I’m still going to side with him eking out a decision on the heels of the first two rounds.

    125 lbs.: Mayra Bueno Silva vs. Maryna Moroz – Love the power of Silva. Think she gives fits to a lot of Flyweights, including Moroz. So with that, I have Silva winning via decision.

    125 lbs.: Bruno Silva vs. David Dvorak – I’ve seen some highlights of Dvorak and I’m liking this signing. It kind of reassures that the UFC is still carrying on with the Flyweight division as well. As for a prediction, Dvorak wins this via TKO.

    135 lbs.: Veronica Macedo vs. Bea Malecki – No clue about Malecki, but Macedo is underrated talent. If she can shore up her takedown defense, I think we have something special in the young Venezuelan. So with that, I have Macedo winning via decision.

  • UFC 248: Adesanya vs. Romero Predictions

    UFC 248: Adesanya vs. Romero Predictions

    Live from the T-Mobile arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, the UFC packs a cards with two incredible title fights. The co-headliner features rising star and current Strawweight Champion Weili Zhang and former Strawweight queen Joanna Jedrzejcyzk. Both women are strikers, and this has classic written all over it. So don’t blink. As for the headliner, undefeated Champion Israel Adesanya takes on Yoel Romero in what should be a crazy fight. With Romero’s explosiveness and Adesanya’s crazy style, this has fireworks written all over it.

    UFC 248 PPV Main Card On ESPN+ (10 p.m. ET):

    185 lbs.: UFC Middleweight Champion Israel Adesanya vs. Yoel Romero – I have the utmost respect for Adesanya. He’s a superstar and a legit badass. I mean, who calls out Yoel Romero? A guy who, technically is on a two fight losing streak. A guy who is built like a tank, hits like a truck and has Olympic level wrestling abilities. And my opinion, a nightmare matchup for everyone in the division. Problem is, Romero is getting older, cardio is always a factor and he for whatever reason neglects to use his wrestling. However, this is most likely his last shot at a title and I feel like it’s finally his time to win UFC gold.

    Adesanya is the future and it’s so hard to pick against him. He’s got some of the most dynamic striking in the UFC. He’s so technical and precise, has excellent cardio and his fight IQ is top notch. My only concern is his ability to stay away from Romero’s power. Romero’s just so explosive and I really believe this being his last shot at title, he’s going to use his wrestling early to set up an eventual knockout. So there’s that, Romero via knockout. And New,

    115 lbs.: UFC Strawweight Champion Weili Zhang vs. Joanna Jedrzejczyk – I’m conflicted, but I’m saying And Still. I feel like I’ve discredited Zhang throughout her UFC title run. I believe I pretty much uttered the words that she had no chance against Jessica Andrade and that her competition prior wasn’t anything special. Boy was I wrong. Zhang‘s got crisp striking and legit knockout power. She uses her kicks well, applies pressure and when she smells blood, absolutely puts it on her foe. She’s got good wrestling and devastating ground and pound. I seriously believe the Zhang ERA is amongst us, which is quite the turnaround from what I was saying a fight ago.

    And no disrespect to Jedrzejcyzk. She’s one of the best technical strikers in the UFC, period. I just feel, Zhang is a handful and these weight cuts by Jedrzejcyzk got to be zapping her. So with that, I have Zhang retaining via TKO.

    155 lbs.: Beneil Dariush vs. Drakkar Klose – This is a fun fight, but Dariush is the only specialist in this fight. I mean, Dariush has good hands, but it’s grappling that is a real neutralizer. Klose is well rounded, but he hasn’t faced anyone yet who is going to be a handful in the grappling department. In the end, Dariush controls Klose for three rounds and gets the nod via decision.

    170 lbs.: Li Jingliang vs. Neil Magny – I gotta admit, I have the recent juggernaut that is Jingliang steamrolling Magny early. However, I also gotta admit that these are the exact fights that Magny has had in the past, only to weather the storm and win. Magny is blessed with durability, cardio, volume and a pace that breaks fighters. I just feel the momentum Jingliang is on, combined with his power and Magny’s long layoff equate to Jingliang knockout victory.

    170 lbs.: Max Griffin vs. Alex Oliveira – Griffin is a well rounded fighter, and has evolved mightily from his earlier UFC fights. No longer is he the wild power puncher, but now a technical striker with the knack to wrestle. However, it hasn’t translated to wins thanks to a few iffy decision losses. Something that I sense happening in this fight. Oliveira is well rounded as well, but he’s technical and a counter puncher. His grappling is top notch, but his cardio is always a mystery. In the end, on the heels of three straight losses and his back against the wall, it’s Oliveira who I believe walks away the decision winner.

    UFC 248 Prelims Card On ESPN (8 p.m. ET):

    135 lbs.: Sean O’Malley vs. Jose Quinonez – While O’Malley hasn’t fought in quite some time, Quinonez isn’t exactly a fighter that will beat him. Don’t get me wrong, Quinonez is fun, but he doesn’t exactly excel in one area that will threaten O’Malley. In the end, the Sugar Show returns emphatically with a KO victory.

    155 lbs.: Austin Hubbard vs. Mark Madsen – While Hubbard held his own with grappling wiz Davi Ramos, I’m not sure if he’s ready for an Olympic level wrestler like Madsen. Think we see a rinse and repeat of takedowns from Madsen en route to a decision victory.

    185 lbs.: Saparbek Safarov vs. Rodolfo Vieira – While I do have Vieira winning eventually by submission, I don’t think it will be as easy as people believe. Sararov is tough and is moving down from Light Heavyweight. He‘s got power and pretty impressive takedown defense. If he can keep this fight upright, an upset isn’t out of the question. For now though, I’m sticking with Vieira via submission.

    185 lbs.: Gerald Meerschaert vs. Deron Winn – I really want to pick Winn here because his overall skill set is better than Meerschaert. Then again, Winn is just too undersized. Meerschaert has a 7 inch height and reach advantage, which is massive. As long as he avoids the pocket and brawl, he should be fine. I mean, Meerschaert has shown decent striking chops and has solid grappling. If Winn decides to take him down, Meerschaert is dangerous off his back. By the third round, I see a gassed Winn make a brutal mistake that gets him submitted.

    UFC 248 Prelims Card On ESPN+ (6 p.m. ET):

    115 lbs.: Polyana Viana vs. Emily Whitmire – Viana is clearly the better fighter and she needs to realize her potential right now. Otherwise, she’s ticketed for a pink slip. So with that, I have Viana winning via decision.

    135 lbs.: Jamall Emmers vs. Giga Chikadze – I’m conflicted in this one. Chikadze is a decorated kickboxer and is often a handful on the feet. However, Brandon Davis held his own striking with the kickboxer and even took him down several times. Which indicates to me that Chikadze’s takedown defense is a problem and is going to be a crux to his success. Emmers can wrestle and strike a bit, which could very well edge him out a decision victory. However, I’m going with Chikadze. I believe he can keep the fight on the feet long enough to outpoint Emmers and edge out rounds en route to a decision victory.

    135 lbs.: Danaa Batgerel vs. Guido Cannetti – Let’s be real, Cannetti has had a long lay-off and is 40 years old. Batgerel is coming off a UFC debut in which he was awarded a Fight of the Night bonus. He showed a chin and some decent striking, which is all that’s needed to dispose of Cannetti via KO in the first round.

  • UFC Fight Night 169: Benavidez vs. Figueiredo Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 169: Benavidez vs. Figueiredo Predictions

    What was shaping up to be an exciting fight for the Flyweight Championship, took a massive hit when Deiveson Figueiredo missed the 125 lb mark. Due to this, Figueiredo is ineligible to win the belt. Meaning, should he win, the belt stays vacant. What a massive letdown that is, and in my opinion this puts more pressure on Joseph Benavidez to win this fight for the division. Either way, it still should be a fun fight.

    UFC Fight Night 169 Main Card:

    125 lbs.: Joseph Benavidez vs. Deiveson Figueiredo – What a dam shame that Figueiredo missed weight and is ineligible to win the belt because I have him winning. Now, Benavidez is a stud and a workhorse. His cardio is top notch and his wrestling can give Figueiredo fits.

    However, Figueiredo can absolutely crack and I’m worried about Benavidez’s ability to withstand power like this so late into his career. He’s been hurt and wobbled more lately than I’ve ever seen. If he can stick to a wrestling heavy approach, it’s very possible that he zaps Figueiredo and then pieces him up on the feet in the later rounds. In the end though, I’m going with Figueiredo via TKO, keeping the Flyweight belt vacant.

    145 lbs.: Zarah Fairn vs. Felicia Spencer – With the announcement that Amanda Nunes is defending her Featherweight belt at UFC 250, Spencer is obviously the next challenger. This fight is obviously a softball to set up that up, its glaring. So with that, I have Spencer winning quickly via submission.

    205 lbs.: Magomed Ankalaev vs. Ion Cutelaba – This is going to be fireworks! I’ve got Cutelaba winning though. I believe his aggression, power and wrestling give fits to any Light Heavyweight. Ankalaev is a technical, dynamic counter puncher that has stiff takedown defense. However, I haven’t been crazy about his striking defense. And Cutelaba is a buzzsaw right out of the gate. I’m predicting a early TKO victory.

    145 lbs.: Megan Anderson vs. Norma Dumont – This is an odd fight, but I guess they want to showcase Anderson. So with that, I got the Aussie winning via TKO.

    145 lbs.: Grant Dawson vs. Darrick Minner – Weight cut issues aside, Dawson uses his top notch wrestling to take Minner down at will and eventually submit him.

    UFC Fight Night 169 Prelims Card:

    135 lbs.: Kyler Phillips vs. Gabriel Silva – Honestly, I dont have a clue. Silva via decision.

    185 lbs.: Brendan Allen vs. Tom Breese – Injuries have plagued Breese and its cost him valuable octagon time. Fighting once in over three years, and the last coming nearly two years ago is a tough go. With that in mind and considering Allen is coming off a submission victory over a good Kevin Holland, I’m going with Louisianan via decision.

    155 lbs.: Luis Pena vs. Steve Garcia – This is an intriguing fight, but Pena has been showing improvement each fight. The takedown defense needs to improve though if he’s going to make the climb up the division. Also, I’m not sure about the decision in his last fight, but he makes it up here with a hard fought decision victory.

    265 lbs.: Sergei Spivac vs. Marcin Tybura – When Tybura’s durability gets back to what it was like when he fought Fabricio Werdum, let me know. For now, Spivac via KO.

    145 lbs.: Jordan Griffin vs. T.J. Brown – Griffin has a tough first two opponents to open his UFC tenure, but this one I believe is where he gets his first UFC win via decision.

    145 lbs.: Spike Carlyle vs. Aalon Cruz – Gosh, I dont know either of these gentlemen, but I got Cruz. He’s got a 4 inch height and 7 inch reach advantage. If he uses his distance well, he should outpoint Carlyle by decision.

    170 lbs.: Sean Brady vs. Ismail Naurdiev – Tough fight to call. Brady is a workhorse, with volume, pace and cardio that is hard to match. If he could shore up his striking defense, we might have something. As for Naurdiev, the Austrian Wonderboy is a dynamic striker whom turned his weakness of wrestling into a strength in his last fight by taking down heavy handed Siyar Bahadurzada three times.

    As for this fight, I edge Brady, but I could very well see Naurdiev shut the lights out. I favor Brady’s relentless and cardio to slightly edge out a decision win.

  • UFC Fight Night 168: Felder vs. Hooker Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 168: Felder vs. Hooker Predictions

    The UFC returns to Auckland, New Zealand for the third time and first since Mark Hunt finished Derrick Lewis in the main event. The card features a ton of local talent, but also a hell of a main event. Paul Felder and Dan Hooker are some the most exciting fighters in the UFC. Both men come to throw hands and put on a show for the fans.
    UFC Fight Night 168 Main Card on ESPN+ (7 p.m. ET):
    155 lbs.: Paul Felder vs. Dan Hooker – What an amazing fight! Two strikers who genuinely seem to not like each other for whatever reason. Felder is the more dynamic of the two, with his ability to throw spinning kicks, fists and standing elbows. Make no mistake though, Hooker is a beast in his own right on the feet. Great lower leg kicks and a real technician on the feet. I mean, he’s got one of the best snapping jabs in the business. As for my prediction, this is going to be a war and go the distance. Both men have iron chins, however I believe Felder has the pace and cardio better suited for a five round. Then again, Hooker has the better chance to land something damaging that changes the completion of the fight. With that said, I got Hooker winning via decision.
    205 lbs.: Jimmy Crute vs. Michal Oleksiejczuk – Crute is excellent on the ground, but still learning on the feet. Oleksiejczuk is a force on the feet and his takedown defense is good enough I believe to keep this fight standing. In a struggle to get this fight to the mat, I see Crute eventually getting put away via TKO.
    115 lbs.: Karolina Kowalkiewicz vs. Xiaonan Yan – Kowalkiewicz fall from grace is sad and this isn’t a bounce back fight. This is potentially a pink slip fight, as Yan’s volume striking and aggression is going to swarm the Pole. Sadly, Kowalkiewicz once again loses, to the rising star Yan via decision.
    265 lbs.: Marcos Rogerio de Lima vs. Ben Sosoli – This fight won’t last long. Sosoli throws leather and is apparently good at fighting to no contests. Unluckiness aside, he lacks technique in his striking for me to pick him here. de Lima has legit pop in his hands and if he shored up his cardio, he’d be a legit threat in the Heavyweight division. Cardio won’t be necessary here though, as de Lima knocks out Sosoli in the first round.
    155 lbs.: Magomed Mustafaev vs. Brad Riddell – I don’t know much about Riddell, but I’m impressed with his win over Kenan Song on the regional scene. Crazy enough, that was his third pro fight and Song’s 16th. Anyways, I’m going with the Russian Mustafaev. He’s not the best striker, but he’s got some pop. His physicality and strength are his for a lack of better words, strengths. I believe that Riddell has yet to face anyone with the wrestling and strength of Mustafaev. So with that, I have Mustafaev winning via decision.
    145 lbs.: Kevin Aguilar vs. Zubaira Tukhugov – This is a tough fight to call, but I’m going with Khabib Nurmagomedov‘s training partner Tukhugov. He had a weird last fight, but prior he narrowly defeated Renato Moicano who was a top five Featherweight at the time. Aguilar is a fun brawler, but he gets hit too often and every fight is too close for comfort. So with that, I have Tukhugov winning via decision.
    UFC Fight Night 168 Prelims Card on ESPN+ (4 p.m. ET):
    155 lbs.: Jalin Turner vs. Josh Culibao – This is a short notice debut by Culibao, who is a natural Featherweight. Turner on the other end is a massive Lightweight and despite his record, has shown striking chops that are aided by his massive reach advantage and power. In my opinion, this one won’t be pretty. Turner takes it via knockout.
    170 lbs.: Jake Matthews vs. Emil Meek – Can Meek get a break? Jordan Mein, Kamaru Usman, Bartosz Fabinski and now Jake Matthews. The man’s a wildman and his UFC career is potentially going to end via wrestlers. I mean, he’s a willing brawler and in this day and age of entertainment, give the people what they want. With that said, Matthews takes this fight via decision, but don’t expect it to be easy.
    170 lbs.: Song Kenan vs. Callan Potter – The odds on this fight are really close and I’m a little confused. Song is the better fighter by a mile. He’s got solid striking, with real finishing power. Physically he’s strong enough to fend off takedowns or scramble back to his feet. This fight ends early, Song via knockout.
    125 lbs.: Kai Kara-France vs. Tyson Nam – I wish Nam would throw more volume, but I imagine with his frame, the weight cut to 125 pounds is tough. With his power, a pace and volume like that of Kara-France would catapult Nam to a contender. However, what Nam lacks, Kara-France doesn’t. So with that, I have Kara-France outpointing Nam via decision.
    115 lbs.: Angela Hill vs. Loma Lookboonmee – Hill has been very active, with this being her 6th fight in less than a year span. After a rough beginning to her UFC tenure, Hill has bounced back with three wins in her last four fights. The last two coming via finish. While I appreciate Lookboonmee’s Muay Thai background, she’s going to have a tough time in this fight. Hill is the bigger fight and her reach, ability to keep distance is going to aid her to a decision victory.
    125 lbs.: Shana Dobson vs. Priscila Cachoeira – This is a pick em’. Neither have had much success thus far in their UFC career, but Cachoeira has faced better competition and literally was fed to the wolf. I mean, who debuts against Valentina Shevchenko? With that said, Im going with Cachoeira via decision.
  • UFC Fight Night 167: Anderson vs. Blachowicz 2

    UFC Fight Night 167: Anderson vs. Blachowicz 2

    It’s been since 2014 since the UFC last touched down in Albuquerque, New Mexico. However, the promotion returns with six locals and a main event that could catapult the winner to face the Light Heavyweight kingpin, Jon Jones.

    UFC Fight Night 167 Main Card on ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

    205 lbs.: Corey Anderson vs. Jan Blachowicz – This is a great main event and I was very conflicted in my prediction. Ultimately, I believe Anderson takes it. While Blachowicz has solid striking with pop, even ever improving takedown defense, I just feel like Anderson has a complete game and with an angry chip on the shoulder confidence to boot. The one area of concern, is his chin. It’s failed him several times, so Blachowicz definitely can flip this bout on its head with one punch, but Anderson has found a smart range of late to avoid being finished. In the end, I got Anderson earning himself a title shot with a TKO victory.

    170 lbs.: Diego Sanchez vs. Michel Pereira – Either Pereira gasses out and gets wrestled to oblivion or he smokes Sanchez in the first round. I’m going with the later. I just feel that Pereira is so dangerous in that first round and Sanchez’s chin is always there for the taking. Antics aside, Pereira gets it done via some crazy knockout.

    205 lbs.: Devin Clark vs. Dequan Townsend – Clark is very undersized for Light Heavyweight, but Townsend just hasn’t showed any physicality to make me believe he holds off Clark’s wrestling attacks. So with that, I have Clark winning via decision

    125 lbs.: Montana De La Rosa vs. Mara Romero Borella – Despite losing your Andrea Lee, De La Rosa is a tough out for anyone. Credit that to her toughness and excellent ground game. If any foe plays around in De La Rosa’s guard, they understand their is a legitimate chance they get submitted. Borella will find that out the hard way, as De La Rosa wins via submission.

    155 lbs.: Kazula Vargas vs. Brok Weaver – I gotta say, Weaver is a dog. The man is on you from start to finish, peppering you with shots along the way. This will be his UFC debut and I think it’s going to be impressive, as his aggression eventually leads to a TKO victory.

    155 lbs.: Yancy Medeiros vs. Lando Vannata – This is going to be an epic fight to start off the main card. Two strikers, whom are the epitome of a fighter that takes a punch to give a punch. In the end I believe Vannata is more dynamic on the feet and he’s yet to be finished by strikes. Meanwhile, Medieros has lost his last two fights via strikes. So with that, I have Vannata winning via TKO.

    UFC Fight Night 167 Prelims Card on ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET):

    170 lbs.: Tim Means vs. Daniel Rodriguez – Means is a bad man, and it’s always a treat to see him. Especially against a debuting fighter, who has no idea what he’s in store for him with Means. Expect to see Means pour on the volume striking, followed by some standing elbows and eventually finish Rodriguez via TKO.

    135 lbs.: John Dodson vs. Nathaniel Wood – I could break down this fight, but the Dodson that has fought the past few years is a shell of his former self. That scary power he once held is no longer a threat. He no longer offers volume striking, often coasting rounds. It’s just not the same Dodson. So until further notice, I’ve got Wood winning via decision.

    155 lbs.: Scott Holtzman vs. Jim Miller – It’s crazy how long Miller has been around and even crazier I guess that I’m siding with him in this fight. I feel like Miller’s grappling is going to be a problem for Holtzman, who’s had problems fending off takedowns. So with that, I got the veteran Miller edging out a hard fought decision win.

    125 lbs.: Rogerio Bontorin vs. Ray Borg – It’s a shame Borg can’t make weight because he’s a fun talent at Flyweight. However, these failed weight cuts are racking up and he’s too compromised in these fights. I’m liking what I see thus far in Bontorin and it’s only a matter of time before he outworks a gassed Borg via decision.

    135 lbs.: Merab Dvalishvili vs. Casey Kenney – Interesting fight, but I’m going with Dvalishvili. Kenney has been taken down at will, which is something that Dvalishvili is relentless at. While Kenney has gotten up and battled back, I think the cardio and aggression of Dvalishvili is going to earn him the decision victory.

    125 lbs.: Macy Chiasson vs. Shanna Young – Kudos to Young for stepping up on short notice, but this is a tough fight. Chiasson should physically be able to control Young wherever she wants this fight to be. In the end, Chiasson wins via late TKO.

    135 lbs.: Mark De La Rosa vs. Raulian Paiva – Despite starting out 0-2 in the UFC, I still believe Paiva has a bright future in the Flyweight division. With an iron chin, good striking, excellent scrambles and ever improving takedown defense, Paiva is a tough out for anyone. And the upward trend begins with a decision victory.

  • UFC Fight Night 166: Blaydes vs. dos Santos Predictions

    UFC Fight Night 166: Blaydes vs. dos Santos Predictions

    This card has been ravaged by injuries, but thankfully, the main and co-main event are in tact. In the main event, former UFC Heavyweight Champion Junior Dos Santos looks to climb back up the ranks against fellow contender and young phenom in Curtis Blaydes. It’s a classic striker vs. wrestler matchup, and it should be a damn good one.

    UFC Fight Night 166 Main Card on ESPN+ (8 p.m. ET):

    265 lbs.: Curtis Blaydes vs. Junior dos Santos – Some of the hardest fights to predict are Heavyweight fights. One punch is all it takes in any fight, but at Heavyweight that statement comes to fruition more often than not. In this particular fight, you have a stud wrestler with brutal ground-and-pound in Blaydes and one the best boxers and knockout artist to grace the octagon in JDS.

    JDS has some of the best takedown defense in the UFC, and it probably would be among the best had he not fought Cain Velasquez. The question is though, can he stay upright against a 265 plus pound wrestler in Blaydes? And if taken down, can he pop back up and avoid being ground and pounded into oblivion? I think not.

    While JDS is only 35 years old, he’s fought a lot of fights, endured a lot of damage and quite frankly, I don’t think he’s a shell of himself yet. However, Blaydes is younger and is extremely efficient at taking down guys and finishing them. I think that recipe works again here. So with that, I have Blaydes winning via decision.

    170 lbs.: Michael Chiesa vs. Rafael dos Anjos – In my opinion, this fight comes down to if Chiesa can he takedown RDA. If he can, I see a clear path to winning, with a submission definitely in play. However, if RDA can keep this fight upright, he’s the better striker. RDA is also one of the best to mix his strikes, whether it’s punches or kicks to the legs, body and head.

    While I liken Chiesa’s size in this fight and I do believe he will takedown RDA, I don’t see him holding down RDA long enough to win more than one round. RDA has excellent cardio, can grapple with best of the them and and offers enough volume to edge out rounds. In a fairly fun fight, I believe RDA edges out Chiesa via decision.

    125 lbs.: Jordan Espinosa vs. Alex Perez – I’m taking a gamble here. Espinosa is a stud wrestler and extremely quick on the feet. Perez is well rounded, more experienced and has shown a real knack for finishing foes. While I lean Perez, I’m going with Espinosa. I believe his wrestling should help in both taking Perez down and keeping the fight on the feet, where his speed aids him in avoiding any big shots. I believe this fight could go either way, Perez most likely finishing Espinosa or my prediction in that the Espinosa edges out a narrow decision victory.

    115 lbs.: Hannah Cifers vs. Angela Hill – I’m still waiting for Hill to find consistency. She’s a solid striker, but has to find a real balance between striking defense and offense. Going punch for punch isn’t a recipe for winning on the scorecards. However, a fight against a scrappy, volume puncher in Cifers can be the start of a resurgence in shedding the punch for punch style. I’ll wait though after this fight to see if Hill changed her ways, otherwise I’m going with the North Carolina native Cifers via split decision.

    205 lbs.: Jamahal Hill vs. Darko Stosic – This is a showcase fight for Hill, but I see it not being as easy as what appears on paper. Stosic can crack and take punishment, which is a key ingredient in playing spoiler. Unfortunately, I don’t see him winning. I believe Hill will be the better man on the feet and outpoint Stosic en route to a decision victory .

    UFC Fight Night 166 Prelims Card on ESPN+ (5 p.m. ET):

    125 lbs.: Justine Kish vs. Lucie Pudilova – While I favor Kish to win this fight, I’m going with Pudilova. Kish has been out for nearly two years, and I believe this is a tough matchup to come back too. Pudilova is a striker through and through and she will bring forth pressure and volume. Given Kish has been out of action so long, I’m going to slight edge Pudilova getting the nod via decision.

    145 lbs.: Arnold Allen vs. Nik Lentz – Allen is a perfect 6-0 in the UFC, and other than his fight against Mads Burnell, there’s a lot to like. He’s very well rounded and more than often, keeps a fight upright – doing most of his damage on the feet. While Lentz is a tough task, he doesn’t offer the striking to waver Allen. I also don’t see Lentz taking down Allen, but I could see Allen taking Lentz down. Then again, Lentz is excellent on the ground and would welcome that. In the end, my prediction is that Allen stays perfect via decision.

    185 lbs.: Bevon Lewis vs. Dequan Townsend – This is a do or a die fight for both men, and I’ve got Lewis. I mean, he’s yet to taste a UFC victory, but he’s shown some promise in his losses. He had Urijah Hall beaten for two rounds until a perfectly time punch knocked him out and he ran into the heavy handed underrated Darren Stewart. Also, I’m not sure what to expect for Townshed considering he is dropping 20 pounds to come down to Middleweight. So with that, I’m going with Lewis via decision.

    135 lbs.: Montel Jackson vs. Felipe Colares – Jackson is a guy to watch at Bantamweight. He’s strong, has massive hands – which is extremely beneficial in wrist control, grappling, etc… He’s also got good striking chops to boot. I think he dominates three rounds en route to a decision victory.

    135 lbs.: Lina Lansberg vs. Sara McMann – While I see McMann with the clear wrestling advantage and a rather easy path to victory, her fight IQ has cost her a number of times. Lansberg is extremely dangerous given an advantageous position, which is why I see her submitting McMann at some point.

    135 lbs.: Tony Gravely vs. Brett Johns – I’m kind of surprised this fight is a near pick em’. Johns is one of the more underrated Bantamweights in the UFC. I mean, his only two career losses came to two top six ranked Bantamweights in

    155 lbs.: Herbert Burns vs. Nate Landwehr – No clue about either man, but I’m impressed with what I see on the resume of Landwehr. He’s fought and beaten some tough foes in M-1. I think he takes this fight via decision.