UFC Fight Night : Brandon Moreno vs Steve Erceg
March 29th 2025, CDMX Arena, Mexico City, Mexico
UFC Fight Night : Brandon Moreno vs Steve Erceg
March 29th 2025
CDMX Arena, Mexico City, Mexico
*(All Predictions at bottom of page to avoid Breakdowns/Analysis)*
All odds are recorded on Wednesday.
MAIN CARD
Brandon Moreno vs Steve Erceg
(Moreno Favourite)
Manuel Torres vs Drew Dober
(Dober Favourite)
Kelvin Gastelum vs Joe Pyfer
(Pyfer Favourite)
Raul Rosas Jr. vs Vince Morales
(Rosas Favourite)
David Martinez vs Saimon Oliveira
(Martinez Favourite)
Ronaldo Rodríguez vs Kevin Borjas
(Rodríguez Favourite)
PRELIMS
Edgar Chairez vs C.J. Vergara
(Chairez Favourite)
José Daniel Medina vs Ateba Abega Gautier
(Gautier Favourite)
Christian Rodriguez vs Melquizael Costa
(Rodriguez Favourite)
Loopy Godinez vs Julia Polastri
(Godinez Favourite)
Rafa García vs Vinc Pichel
(García Favourite)
Jamall Emmers vs Gabriel Miranda
(Emmers Favourite)
MAIN EVENT
Brandon Moreno vs Steve Erceg
Brandon Moreno (22-8-2) (-180)
Moreno, known as “The Assassin Baby,” is a Mexican flyweight renowned for his exceptional boxing, relentless pace, and grappling skills. He possesses a well-rounded skill set that allows him to adapt to various fight scenarios.
• Moreno has gone to decision in 12 of his 32 professional fights (37.5%) and has had 20 fights (62.5%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:5
• Submissions:11
• Decisions:12
• Height:5’7” (170 cm)
• Weight:125.5 lbs (56.9 kg)
• Reach:70” (178 cm)
• Age:31
Last 3 Fights:
1. Win against Deiveson Figueiredo via submission (rear-naked choke) on January 21, 2025, at UFC 300: Moreno vs Figueiredo IV.
2. Win against Kai Kara-France via TKO (doctor stoppage) on July 30, 2024, at UFC 290.
3. Win against Brandon Royval via submission (rear-naked choke) on June 5, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
Steve Erceg (12-3-0) (+152)
Erceg, nicknamed “AstroBoy,” is an Australian flyweight known for his striking accuracy and submission proficiency. He combines technical stand-up skills with a solid ground game, making him a versatile competitor.
• Erceg has gone to decision in 5 of his 15 professional fights (33.3%) and has had 10 fights (66.7%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:3
• Submissions:7
• Decisions:5
• Height:5’8” (173 cm)
• Weight:125.5 lbs (56.9 kg)
• Reach:68.5” (174 cm)
• Age:29
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Kai Kara-France via TKO (punches) on December 15, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
• Loss to Alexandre Pantoja via unanimous decision on July 8, 2024, at UFC 301.
• Win against Matt Schnell via submission (rear-naked choke) on March 5, 2024, at UFC 285.
Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 30 of their 47 combined fights (63.8%) end inside the distance and 17 fights (36.2%) go to decision.
⸻
Prediction:
This flyweight bout features former champion Brandon Moreno facing Steve Erceg, who is eager to rebound from recent setbacks. Moreno’s experience against top-tier competition and his well-rounded skill set provide him with a significant advantage. Erceg’s enthusiasm for this matchup, especially in Moreno’s home country, adds an intriguing narrative. However, Moreno’s striking and grappling proficiency are expected to be decisive factors.
Im taking Brandon Moreno and for this fight to go to a decision
Manuel Torres vs Drew Dober
Manuel Torres (15-3-0) (-110)
Torres, known as “El Loco,” is a Mexican lightweight fighter recognized for his aggressive striking and submission skills. He trains out of Delincuentes MMA Gym in Mexico, showcasing a versatile and dynamic fighting style.
• Torres has gone to decision in 1 of his 18 professional fights (5.6%) and has had 17 fights (94.4%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:7
• Submissions:7
• Decisions:1
• Height:5’10” (178 cm)
• Weight:155 lbs (70.3 kg)
• Reach:73” (185 cm)
• Age:30
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Ignacio Bahamondes via TKO (punches) on September 14, 2024, at UFC 306.
• Win against Chris Duncan via submission (rear-naked choke) on February 24, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
• Win against Nikolas Motta via KO (punches) on June 18, 2023, at UFC Fight Night.
Drew Dober (27-14-0) (-110)
Dober is an American lightweight fighter known for his striking power and durability. He trains out of Elevation Fight Team in Denver, Colorado, bringing a fan-friendly, aggressive approach to his fights.
• Dober has gone to decision in 25 of his 41 professional fights (61.0%) and has had 16 fights (39.0%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:14
• Submissions:6
• Decisions:21
• Height:5’8” (173 cm)
• Weight:155 lbs (70.3 kg)
• Reach:70” (178 cm)
• Age:36
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Jean Silva via KO (punches) on July 13, 2024, at UFC Fight Night: Namajunas vs. Cortez.
• Loss to Renato Moicano via unanimous decision on February 3, 2024, at UFC Fight Night: Dolidze vs. Imavov.
• Win against Bobby Green via KO (punches) on December 17, 2022, at UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Strickland.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 33 of their 59 combined fights (55.9%) end inside the distance and 26 fights (44.1%) go to decision.
⸻
Prediction:
This lightweight bout features Torres’ aggressive finishing style against Dober’s experience and striking power. Torres’ reach advantage and high finishing rate could pose challenges for Dober. However, Dober’s experience and resilience may allow him to weather early storms and capitalize on opportunities as the fight progresses.
Im taking Drew Dober and for this fight to end inside the distance.
Kelvin Gastelum vs Joe Pyfer
Kelvin Gastelum (18-9, 1 NC) (+170)
Gastelum is an American middleweight known for his boxing-heavy striking, durability, and strong wrestling background. He utilizes fast hands, pressure, and solid takedown defense to compete against elite competition.
• Gastelum has gone to decision in 12 of his 28 professional fights (43%) and has had 16 fights (57%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:6
• Submissions:6
• Decisions:12
• Height:5’9”
• Weight:185 lbs
• Reach:71”
• Age:33
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Sean Brady via submission (arm-triangle choke) on December 2, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 233.
• Win against Chris Curtis via unanimous decision on April 8, 2023, at UFC 287.
• Loss to Jared Cannonier via split decision on August 21, 2021, at UFC on ESPN 29.
Joe Pyfer (12-3) (-200)
Pyfer is an American middleweight with a well-rounded game, possessing knockout power and a dangerous submission arsenal. He utilizes heavy boxing, strong wrestling, and opportunistic grappling to finish fights.
• Pyfer has gone to decision in 2 of his 15 professional fights (13%) and has had 13 fights (87%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:8
• Submissions:5
• Decisions:2
• Height:6’2”
• Weight:185 lbs
• Reach:75”
• Age:28
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Jack Hermansson via unanimous decision on February 10, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 236.
• Win against Abdul Razak Alhassan via submission (arm-triangle choke) on October 7, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 229.
• Win against Gerald Meerschaert via TKO (punches) on April 8, 2023, at UFC 287.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 29 of their 43 combined fights (67%) end inside the distance and 14 fights (33%) go to decision.
⸻
Prediction:
This middleweight matchup features Gastelum’s experience and durability against Pyfer’s power and finishing ability. Gastelum has faced a significantly higher level of competition and has proven his ability to withstand dangerous strikers. However, Pyfer’s size advantage, power, and aggressive approach could present problems if Gastelum struggles to close the distance. Gastelum’s path to victory likely involves utilizing his wrestling and boxing to outwork Pyfer, while Pyfer will look to capitalize on his power and finishing instincts.
Im taking Joe Pyfer and for this fight to go to a decision.
Raul Rosas Jr. vs Vince Morales
Raul Rosas Jr. (7-1) (-250)
Rosas Jr. is a Mexican bantamweight known for his exceptional grappling and submission skills. He combines relentless pressure with superior wrestling to control opponents on the ground, often seeking finishes through submission.
• Rosas Jr. has gone to decision in 2 of his 8 professional fights (25%) and has had 6 fights (75%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:2
• Submissions:5
• Decisions:1
• Height:5’9”
• Weight:135 lbs
• Reach:70”
• Age:19
Last 3 Fights:
• Win against J.T. Pinder via submission (rear-naked choke) on March 30, 2024, at UFC on ESPN 57.
• Win against Gabriel Silva via submission (armbar) on December 23, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 225.
• Loss to Christian Rodriguez via unanimous decision on October 28, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 223.
Vince Morales (11-5) (+190)
Morales is an American bantamweight known for his striking, particularly his kickboxing and movement. He employs a balanced approach, combining technical striking with solid takedown defense.
• Morales has gone to decision in 7 of his 16 professional fights (44%) and has had 9 fights (56%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:6
• Submissions:1
• Decisions:7
• Height:5’7”
• Weight:135 lbs
• Reach:70”
• Age:33
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Chris Gutierrez via TKO (punches) on March 23, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 67.
• Win against Drako Rodriguez via unanimous decision on January 15, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 61.
• Loss to Nathaniel Wood via submission (guillotine choke) on November 12, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 59.
⸻
Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 15 of their 24 combined fights (62%) end inside the distance and 9 fights (38%) go to decision.
⸻
Prediction:
This bantamweight clash features Rosas Jr.’s dynamic grappling and submission game against Morales’ striking and solid defense. Rosas Jr. will look to close the distance and take Morales to the ground, where his submission skills shine. Morales, on the other hand, will need to avoid the takedown and use his striking to keep the fight standing. If Morales can maintain range and avoid being controlled on the ground, he has the edge in striking. However, Rosas Jr.’s relentless pressure and grappling should allow him to dictate the pace of the fight.
Im taking Raul Rosas Jr and for this fight to end inside the distance.
David Martinez vs Saimon Oliveira
David Martinez (9-3) (-175)
Martinez is a Mexican flyweight known for his dynamic striking and well-rounded game. He utilizes a pressure-heavy approach, combining sharp striking with solid grappling and takedown defense to control opponents.
• Martinez has gone to decision in 3 of his 12 professional fights (25%) and has had 9 fights (75%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:5
• Submissions:2
• Decisions:3
• Height:5’5”
• Weight:125 lbs
• Reach:67”
• Age:26
Last 3 Fights:
• Win against Alejandro Martínez via unanimous decision on April 5, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 225.
• Loss to Carlos Hernandez via submission (rear-naked choke) on December 17, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 210.
• Win against Enrique González via KO (head kick) on August 25, 2023, at Contender Series 2023.
Saimon Oliveira (12-5) (+155)
Oliveira is a Brazilian flyweight known for his submission-heavy game and grappling skills. He excels in clinch control and takedowns, often working to transition to dominant positions and finish fights on the ground.
• Oliveira has gone to decision in 4 of his 17 professional fights (24%) and has had 13 fights (76%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:3
• Submissions:8
• Decisions:4
• Height:5’6”
• Weight:125 lbs
• Reach:68”
• Age:29
Last 3 Fights:
• Win against Jesus Aguilar via submission (guillotine choke) on March 8, 2024, at UFC Fight Night 60.
• Loss to Francisco Figueiredo via unanimous decision on December 10, 2023, at UFC 295.
• Win against Natan Levy via submission (armbar) on September 12, 2023, at UFC Fight Night 58.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 17 of their 29 combined fights (59%) end inside the distance and 12 fights (41%) go to decision.
⸻
Prediction:
This flyweight clash features Martinez’s striking and well-rounded game against Oliveira’s submission expertise and grappling control. Martinez has shown solid striking power and takedown defense but will need to avoid being controlled on the ground by Oliveira’s superior grappling. Oliveira’s ability to transition to dominant positions and work for submissions makes him a dangerous opponent. If Martinez can keep the fight standing and avoid getting tangled up in Oliveira’s clinch or submission attempts, he has the advantage. However, Oliveira’s grappling pressure might overwhelm Martinez as the fight progresses.
Im taking David Martinez and for this fight to go to a decision.
Ronaldo Rodríguez vs Kevin Borjas
Ronaldo Rodríguez (11-4) (-135)
Rodríguez is a Brazilian lightweight known for his well-rounded skill set. He blends striking with solid grappling, showcasing a well-balanced approach to both stand-up and ground game. His ability to mix things up makes him unpredictable and dangerous in all areas.
• Rodríguez has gone to decision in 4 of his 15 professional fights (27%) and has had 11 fights (73%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:6
• Submissions:2
• Decisions:4
• Height:5’10”
• Weight:155 lbs
• Reach:72”
• Age:27
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. September 14, 2024 – UFC 306: O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili: Rodríguez faced Ode’ Osbourne and secured a unanimous decision victory after three rounds.
2. February 24, 2024 – UFC Fight Night: Moreno vs. Royval 2: He competed against Denys Bondar, winning via submission with a rear-naked choke at 4:59 of the second round.
3. May 19, 2023 – Lux Fight League: Lux 32: Rodríguez fought Angel Rodriguez and won by technical knockout due to a doctor’s stoppage at 1:00 of the third round.
Kevin Borjas (8-2) (+105)
Borjas is a Mexican lightweight known for his aggressive striking and power. He focuses on keeping pressure on his opponents and closing distance quickly to land heavy punches, while also incorporating grappling when needed to mix up his approach.
• Borjas has gone to decision in 2 of his 10 professional fights (20%) and has had 8 fights (80%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:4
• Submissions:2
• Decisions:2
• Height:5’9”
• Weight:155 lbs
• Reach:70”
• Age:25
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. May 4, 2024 – UFC 301: Pantoja vs. Erceg: Borjas faced Alessandro Costa and suffered a loss via technical knockout (TKO) in the second round at 1:35.
2. November 11, 2023 – UFC 295: Procházka vs. Pereira: Borjas competed against Joshua Van and lost by unanimous decision after three rounds.
3. August 8, 2023 – Dana White’s Contender Series: Season 7, Week 1: Borjas fought Victor Dias and secured a unanimous decision victory after three rounds.
⸻
Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 19 of their 25 combined fights (76%) end inside the distance and 6 fights (24%) go to decision.
⸻
Prediction:
This lightweight clash features Rodríguez’s versatile game against Borjas’ heavy striking and aggressive approach. Rodríguez’s solid grappling and well-rounded skills will give him an advantage if the fight goes to the ground, but Borjas’ striking power can be a game-changer if he can land clean shots. If Rodríguez can avoid Borjas’ power and engage in a grappling-heavy approach, he has a good chance of securing a dominant victory. However, Borjas’ relentless pressure and striking prowess make him a dangerous threat, especially in exchanges at close range.
Im taking Ronaldo Rodriguez and for this fight to end inside the distance.
Edgar Chairez vs C.J. Vergara
Edgar Chairez (10-4) (+190)
Chairez is a Mexican flyweight known for his slick grappling and dynamic striking. He combines solid jiu-jitsu with a striking game that includes powerful kicks and clean boxing. His ability to fight in all ranges and his submissions make him dangerous on the ground and in the stand-up.
• Chairez has gone to decision in 2 of his 14 professional fights (14%) and has had 12 fights (86%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:5
• Submissions:3
• Decisions:2
• Height:5’6”
• Weight:125 lbs
• Reach:68”
• Age:25
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. September 14, 2024 – UFC 306: O’Malley vs. Dvalishvili: Cháirez faced Joshua Van and lost by unanimous decision after three rounds.
2. February 24, 2024 – UFC Fight Night: He fought Daniel Lacerda and secured a victory via triangle choke submission in the first round at 2:17.
3. September 16, 2023 – UFC Fight Night 227: Cháirez initially appeared to have won against Daniel Lacerda via anaconda choke submission; however, the result was later overturned to a no contest due to a referee’s error.
C.J. Vergara (11-4) (-250)
Vergara is an American flyweight known for his aggressive striking and relentless pace. He employs a pressure-heavy approach, using his boxing to break opponents down while also having a solid wrestling background for his takedown defense and control in clinch exchanges.
• Vergara has gone to decision in 4 of his 15 professional fights (27%) and has had 11 fights (73%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:7
• Submissions:2
• Decisions:4
• Height:5’5”
• Weight:125 lbs
• Reach:67”
• Age:30
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. October 12, 2024 – UFC Fight Night 244: Vergara faced Ramazan Temirov and lost via technical knockout (TKO) in the first round at 2:50.
2. March 9, 2024 – UFC 299: O’Malley vs. Vera 2: He fought Assu Almabayev and lost by unanimous decision after three rounds.
3. July 29, 2023 – UFC 291: Poirier vs. Gaethje 2: Vergara competed against Vinicius Salvador and secured a unanimous decision victory after three rounds.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 23 of their 29 combined fights (79%) end inside the distance and 6 fights (21%) go to decision.
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Prediction:
This flyweight matchup pits Chairez’s grappling and striking versatility against Vergara’s aggressive pressure and striking pace. Chairez’s dynamic striking and submission game could be problematic for Vergara, especially if he manages to find his openings for takedowns or submissions. Vergara’s constant forward pressure and striking power will test Chairez’s ability to control the tempo of the fight. If Chairez can neutralize Vergara’s aggression and use his grappling to control the fight, he could secure a win, but Vergara’s relentless style makes him a tough challenge to deal with.
Im taking Edgar Chairez and for this fight to end inside the distance.
José Daniel Medina vs Ateba Abega Gautier
José Daniel Medina (9-2) (+175)
Medina is a Mexican lightweight with a well-rounded game that combines strong wrestling, solid striking, and aggressive submission skills. He is known for his pressure-heavy style and ability to fight at close range, often controlling opponents with his clinch and grappling techniques.
• Medina has gone to decision in 3 of his 11 professional fights (27%) and has had 8 fights (73%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:3
• Submissions:4
• Decisions:3
• Height:5’9”
• Weight:155 lbs
• Reach:70”
• Age:26
Last 3 Fights:
• Loss to Zachary Reese via unanimous decision on August 24, 2024, at UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Borralho.
• Loss to Magomed Gadzhiyasulov via unanimous decision on October 3, 2023, at Dana White’s Contender Series: Season 7, Week 9.
• Win against Fernando Filho via split decision on March 31, 2023, at Thunder Fight 42.
Ateba Abega Gautier (11-4) (-210)
Gautier is a French lightweight who excels in his striking game, particularly his Muay Thai techniques. He is a fast and aggressive fighter, known for his well-timed leg kicks and heavy hands. While he prefers to stand and trade, he is also capable of controlling the pace with his clinch and takedown defense.
• Gautier has gone to decision in 5 of his 15 professional fights (33%) and has had 10 fights (67%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:6
• Submissions:3
• Decisions:5
• Height:5’11”
• Weight:155 lbs
• Reach:73”
• Age:28
Last 3 Fights:
• Win against Yura Naito via TKO (punches) on September 17, 2024, at Dana White’s Contender Series 72.
• Win against Carlos De Souza via TKO (punches) on June 15, 2024, at an unspecified event.
• Win against Jan Lysak via TKO on April 22, 2023, at Vida Fighting Championships 3.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 18 of their 26 combined fights (69%) end inside the distance and 8 fights (31%) go to decision.
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Prediction:
This lightweight matchup features Medina’s well-rounded grappling and clinch game against Gautier’s striking power and aggression. Medina’s path to victory likely involves taking Gautier down and controlling him on the ground, where he has a submission advantage. Gautier’s striking could be the key to a win if he can keep the fight standing and use his range to outpoint Medina. Both men are capable of finishing the fight, but Medina’s ability to neutralize the striking of Gautier with his wrestling could give him the edge.
Im taking Ateba Gauthier and for this fight to end inside the distance.
Christian Rodriguez vs Melquizael Costa
Christian Rodriguez (9-1) (-155)
Rodriguez is an American bantamweight with a well-rounded skill set, blending sharp striking with solid wrestling and grappling. He is known for his composed fighting style, using a smart game plan to control the pace and avoid risky situations. Rodriguez is comfortable both on the feet and on the ground, making him a threat in all areas.
• Rodriguez has gone to decision in 3 of his 10 professional fights (30%) and has had 7 fights (70%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:4
• Submissions:3
• Decisions:3
• Height:5’8”
• Weight:135 lbs
• Reach:71”
• Age:26
Last 3 Fights:
• • Win against Austin Bashi via unanimous decision on January 11, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.
• Loss to Julian Erosa via guillotine choke at 4:49 of Round 1 on July 13, 2024, at UFC on ESPN.
• Win against Isaac Dulgarian via unanimous decision on March 16, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
Melquizael Costa (10-2) (+135)
Costa is a Brazilian bantamweight known for his striking prowess, combining precise, fast hands with a strong clinch game. He is a dynamic fighter who prefers to engage at a distance, using his speed and power to overwhelm opponents. While primarily a striker, Costa also possesses good takedown defense and can hold his own in the grappling exchanges.
• Costa has gone to decision in 4 of his 12 professional fights (33%) and has had 8 fights (67%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:7
• Submissions:1
• Decisions:4
• Height:5’7”
• Weight:135 lbs
• Reach:69”
• Age:24
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. Win against Nick Fiorvanti via knockout (head kick) on January 12, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.
2. Loss to Solomon Asli via split decision on November 25, 2024, at UFC 310.
3. Win against Will Anderson via unanimous decision on October 14, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 13 of their 22 combined fights (59%) end inside the distance and 9 fights (41%) go to decision.
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Prediction:
This bantamweight matchup pits Rodriguez’s all-around game against Costa’s striking-heavy approach. Rodriguez’s ability to blend wrestling and grappling with his striking gives him an advantage in controlling the tempo of the fight. Costa will need to keep the fight standing and utilize his striking to have success. If Rodriguez can take Costa down and impose his grappling, he should be able to control the fight. However, Costa’s knockout power always keeps him dangerous.
Im taking Melquizael Costa and for this fight to end inside the distance.
Loopy Godinez vs Julia Polastri
Loopy Godinez (10-3) (-180)
Godinez is a Canadian-Mexican strawweight known for her aggressive grappling and high-pressure style. She excels in the clinch and has solid takedowns, often seeking control on the ground while maintaining a steady pace throughout the fight. Godinez is well-rounded with solid striking, though her grappling remains her primary weapon.
• Godinez has gone to decision in 4 of her 13 professional fights (31%) and has had 9 fights (69%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:3
• Submissions:3
• Decisions:4
• Height:5’2”
• Weight:115 lbs
• Reach:62”
• Age:27
Last 3 Fights:
• Win against Angela Hill via unanimous decision on February 23, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.
2. Loss to Jessica Andrade via submission (armbar) on December 9, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
3. Win against Liana Jojua via unanimous decision on October 28, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
Julia Polastri (10-2) (+155)
Polastri is a Brazilian strawweight known for her aggressive striking and fast-paced approach. She is a well-rounded fighter with a strong muay thai base, utilizing sharp kicks and elbows to keep opponents on the back foot. Though her striking is her main strength, Polastri also has solid takedown defense and works well in the clinch.
• Polastri has gone to decision in 3 of her 12 professional fights (25%) and has had 9 fights (75%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:5
• Submissions:3
• Decisions:3
• Height:5’3”
• Weight:115 lbs
• Reach:64”
• Age:24
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. Win against Amanda Lemos via knockout (head kick) on March 10, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.
2. Loss to Marina Rodriguez via unanimous decision on January 20, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.
3. Win against Claudia Gadelha via submission (rear-naked choke) on November 4, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 16 of their 25 combined fights (64%) end inside the distance and 9 fights (36%) go to decision.
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Prediction:
Godinez will bring a relentless grappling approach to this matchup, where she will aim to control Polastri on the ground. Polastri, however, is a dangerous striker and will look to impose her speed and power from the outside, hoping to avoid the clinch and grappling exchanges. Godinez’s ability to close distance and control the fight on the mat will likely give her an edge. If Polastri can keep the fight standing and land clean strikes, she could find success. However, Godinez’s pressure should be enough to neutralize Polastri’s offense.
Im taking Lupita Godinez and for this fight to go to a decision.
Rafa García vs Vinc Pichel
Rafa García (15-3) (-160)
García is a Mexican lightweight known for his well-rounded skills, with a strong background in wrestling and grappling. He has a high-pressure fighting style, often pushing the pace and mixing strikes with clinch and takedown attempts. García’s durability and ability to scramble make him a difficult opponent in the later rounds.
• García has gone to decision in 5 of his 18 professional fights (28%) and has had 13 fights (72%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:6
• Submissions:3
• Decisions:5
• Height:5’9”
• Weight:155 lbs
• Reach:71”
• Age:28
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. Loss to Grant Dawson via submission (rear-naked choke) on March 23, 2025, at UFC Fight Night.
2. Win against Jared Gordon via unanimous decision on December 9, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
3. Loss to Nasrat Haqparast via knockout (head kick) on September 16, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
Vinc Pichel (14-3) (+130)
Pichel is an American lightweight known for his aggressive striking and solid grappling. He has a strong clinch game and is excellent at controlling opponents in close quarters. Pichel’s striking is crisp, and he mixes it well with his wrestling, often using his clinch work to dominate exchanges.
• Pichel has gone to decision in 4 of his 17 professional fights (24%) and has had 13 fights (76%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:6
• Submissions:2
• Decisions:4
• Height:5’10”
• Weight:155 lbs
• Reach:70”
• Age:36
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. Loss to Terrence McKinney via knockout (head kick) on December 23, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
2. Win against Austin Hubbard via unanimous decision on August 19, 2024, at UFC on ESPN.
3. Loss to Drew Dober via knockout (punch) on May 14, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 26 of their 35 combined fights (74%) end inside the distance and 9 fights (26%) go to decision.
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Prediction:
This lightweight matchup pits García’s relentless pace and grappling pressure against Pichel’s striking and clinch game. García’s style is more pressure-heavy, constantly looking to control the tempo with his takedowns and ground control. Pichel, while solid on the ground, will want to keep this fight standing and use his striking to win exchanges. García’s wrestling should provide him with an edge in this bout, as he can neutralize Pichel’s offense by pushing the pace and looking for takedowns. Pichel will need to keep distance and avoid being controlled on the ground.
Im taking Rafa Garcia and for this fight to go to a decision.
Jamall Emmers vs Gabriel Miranda
Jamall Emmers (19-6) (-150)
Emmers is an American featherweight known for his well-rounded skill set, combining strong striking with a solid grappling base. He has a long reach and utilizes his distance well, controlling the range with his jab and leg kicks. Emmers is also capable on the ground, with good takedown defense and a solid submission game.
• Emmers has gone to decision in 6 of his 25 professional fights (24%) and has had 19 fights (76%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:7
• Submissions:4
• Decisions:6
• Height:5’11”
• Weight:145 lbs
• Reach:75”
• Age:34
Last 3 Fights:
1. Loss to Nate Landwehr via KO (punches) at 4:43 of Round 1 on March 30, 2024, at UFC Fight Night: Blanchfield vs. Fiorot.
2. Win against Dennis Buzukja via TKO (punches) at 0:49 of Round 1 on November 11, 2023, at UFC 295: Procházka vs. Pereira.
3. Loss to Jack Jenkins via split decision after three rounds on June 24, 2023, at UFC Fight Night: Emmett vs. Topuria.
Gabriel Miranda (16-6) (+130)
Miranda is a Brazilian featherweight known for his submission game and aggressive grappling style. He has a strong wrestling base and looks to close the distance quickly, often attempting to get his opponents to the ground and work for submissions. His striking is still developing, but he excels when the fight hits the mat.
• Miranda has gone to decision in 3 of his 22 professional fights (14%) and has had 19 fights (86%) end inside the distance.
• KO/TKOs:4
• Submissions:10
• Decisions:3
• Height:5’7”
• Weight:145 lbs
• Reach:70”
• Age:29
Last 3 Fights:
• 1. Loss to Morgan Charrière via knockout (elbows) on September 28, 2024, at UFC Fight Night.
2. Win against Shane Young via submission (rear-naked choke) on September 9, 2023, at UFC 293: Adesanya vs. Strickland.
3. Loss to Benoit Saint-Denis via knockout (right hook to ground strikes) on September 3, 2022, at UFC Fight Night.
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Combined Fight Records:
• These two fighters have seen 38 of their 47 combined fights (81%) end inside the distance and 9 fights (19%) go to decision.
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Prediction:
This featherweight clash features Emmers’ striking and distance control against Miranda’s grappling and submission skills. Emmers has the advantage in striking with his reach and striking output, and he’ll look to keep the fight at range to avoid Miranda’s takedowns. On the other hand, Miranda’s best chance for victory lies in closing the distance and taking the fight to the ground, where he can use his submission game to find a finish. Emmers’ ability to stop the takedowns and keep the fight standing will likely be the key to his success here.
Im taking Jamall Emmers and for this fight to end inside the diatance.
SINGLE BETS
Brandon Moreno
Drew Dober
Joe Pyfer
Raul Rosas Jr.
David Martinez
Ronaldo Rodríguez
Edgar Chairez
Ateba Abega Gautier
Melquizael Costa
Loopy Godinez
Rafa García
Jamall Emmers
PROP BETS
Brandon Moreno vs Steve Erceg to go to a decision
Manuel Torres vs Drew Dober to end inside the distance
Kelvin Gastelum vs Joe Pyfer to go to a decision
Raul Rosas Jr. vs Vince Morales to end inside the distance
David Martinez vs Saimon Oliveira to go to a decision
Ronaldo Rodríguez vs Kevin Borjas to end inside the distance
Edgar Chairez vs C.J. Vergara to end inside the distance
José Daniel Medina vs Ateba Abega Gautier to end inside the distance
Christian Rodriguez vs Melquizael Costa to end inside the distance
Loopy Godinez vs Julia Polastri to go to a decision
Rafa García vs Vinc Pichel to go to a decision
Jamall Emmers vs Gabriel Miranda to end inside the distance
