Brandon Moreno is determined to reclaim his position and fight for the UFC flyweight title once again.
Having previously held the title twice, Moreno is a top contender in the 125-pound division. Steve Erceg is now challenging Moreno, aiming to make a mark in the upcoming UFC Mexico main event. Despite recent setbacks, Moreno remains a top-tier flyweight fighter.
Moreno`s recent fights include a close split decision loss to Alexandre Pantoja, which ended his second title reign, and another split decision defeat to Brandon Royval, temporarily halting his pursuit of a Pantoja rematch. Following these losses, Moreno secured a victory against Amir Albazi, a fight where the stakes were arguably higher for Moreno.
Now, Moreno faces Erceg, a former title challenger also seeking another shot at the championship. Erceg is motivated to bounce back from a knockout loss to Kai Kara-France, potentially adding extra intensity to this matchup.
Flyweight bouts are known for their fast-paced action, and this event in Mexico City carries additional pressure and excitement, with fans eager to support Moreno in his quest for victory.
Looking at the fight dynamics, Moreno is expected to utilize his speed and skills to pressure Erceg, especially with the enthusiastic home crowd behind him. Erceg is anticipated to use his boxing skills and footwork to avoid becoming overwhelmed.
Erceg’s grappling abilities could be a factor, potentially leading to engaging scrambles with Moreno. Moreno has consistently shown resilience on the ground, making him difficult to control. This fight could evolve into a battle of endurance, particularly in the later rounds.
Moreno is favored to win, possibly by catching Erceg and finishing with strikes on the ground in the third or fourth round.
Pick: Moreno
Drew Dober, a veteran in his 25th UFC appearance, has established himself as an exciting fighter who consistently competes at a high level. He faces Manuel Torres, a rising lightweight prospect.
Torres is known for his dynamic striking from various angles and his ability to capitalize on openings. This matchup is expected to offer numerous opportunities for knockouts, as both fighters possess significant power. Dober, despite some technical shortcomings, has knockout power, and if he connects with Torres, the fight could end quickly. It may come down to who lands the decisive blow first.
Torres, being younger and potentially fresher, is predicted to defeat Dober. While Dober might pose an early threat, Torres is expected to find his rhythm and land a fight-ending strike.
Pick: Torres
Kelvin Gastelum remains in the middleweight division and is set to face Joe Pyfer, a fighter known for his finishing abilities.
Pyfer`s true potential is still being evaluated. His only UFC loss is against Jack Hermansson. He has shown he is above the middle tier of middleweights and aims to prove he is a future contender.
Pyfer has size and athletic advantages. He might attempt to use wrestling to wear down Gastelum and seek a submission as Gastelum’s resistance weakens. While Gastelum is a capable wrestler, his takedown defense has shown vulnerabilities.
However, engaging in a striking battle with Gastelum could be risky for Pyfer. Gastelum has proven durability, and Pyfer might tire quickly, especially considering the altitude of Mexico City. Stamina could be Pyfer’s weakness.
Gastelum’s strategy should be to extend the fight, exploiting Pyfer`s potential cardio issues and aiming for a late victory as Pyfer fatigues.
Pick: Gastelum by decision
Raul Rosas Jr., now 20 years old, continues his promising MMA career after winning nine of his first ten fights. His next opponent is Vince Morales, a seasoned and resilient veteran.
This fight is expected to favor Rosas. Rosas` speed, athleticism, and wrestling skills pose challenges for Morales. While Morales is capable, Rosas is expected to control the fight and secure a victory, possibly by decision after three rounds.
Pick: Rosas Jr.
Saimon Oliveira returns to fighting after over two years and will face David Martinez, who will test his conditioning.
Martinez, known for his agility and movement, will likely use a defensive approach, inviting Oliveira to attack while utilizing counters. Martinez`s pace is expected to increase as the fight progresses.
Oliveira needs to vary his attacks to disrupt Martinez`s rhythm, but it`s uncertain how effective his wrestling will be against Martinez`s mobile style. Martinez’s stance makes takedowns difficult.
Oliveira’s urgency to finish the fight might backfire as Martinez is expected to read his strategy and secure a knockout in the first round.
Pick: Martinez
Ronaldo Rodriguez is known for his explosive fighting style, combining wrestling and striking. However, he can be slow to start, which has caused him issues in past UFC fights.
These defensive openings could be costly against Kevin Borjas, a talented fighter who is looking to overcome recent challenges. Borjas will likely dictate the pace and use his striking skills if Rodriguez allows him space.
The fight outcome is uncertain. Rodriguez could use grappling to win, but he has also absorbed significant strikes in the past. Borjas might be the one to capitalize on Rodriguez`s defensive lapses and secure a knockout victory.
Pick: Borjas by knockout
Preliminary Card Results:
- Edgar Chairez def. CJ Vergara
- Ateba Gautier def. Jose Daniel Medina
- Christian Rodriguez def. Melquizael Costa
- Loopy Godinez (11) def. Julia Polastri
- Rafa Garcia def. Vinc Pichel
- Gabriel Miranda def. Jamall Emmers
- MarQuel Mederos def. Austin Hubbard
