Dlos Fight Prediction Record 13-3
Jack Hermansson (+110) vs Marvin Vettori (-140)
This should be a fun scrap between 2 very good fighters. Hermansson opened as the favorite over the late replacement, Vettori, before the line flipped the other way. I think there is good reason for that. Hermansson is great when it comes to the grappling department, but he is an absolute mess when it comes to striking defense, as he has shown in past fights. I think what helps Verttori in this fight is his excellent wrestling chops (80% takedown defense) which will allow him to dictate where the fight takes place. Between that and his relentless pressure I think he will really be able to pour it on Hermansson. While I think there is a good chance this fight goes the distance, Hermanssons chin has shown to be suspect at times. I think Vettori will score a late TKO in round 4 or 5.
The Pick: Marvin Vettori by 4th Round TKO
Ovince St Preux (+150) vs Jamahal Hill (-170)
Another fighter trying to break in to the top 15 at LHW will try to go through OSP to get there. It didn’t go so well for the last prospect that attempted it as Preux knocked Alozno Menifield out cold. Hill comes in winning his first 2 fights in the UFC with one being overturned for smoking the Devil’s lettuce. He is the younger and more explosive fighter with an edge in the striking department for sure. He is a rangy southpaw that uses his jabs well and has very good timing with his knees as we saw in his last fight. It is easy to see why he is the favorite to win here with most expecting a KO. With that being said I think OSP is ready to show people why experience matters in the UFC and that he is not done with the Top 15 yet. OSP has a huge advantage when it comes to the grappling department and it is certainly open as Hill was taken down 6 times in his UFC debut. If OSP can try not to get cute on the feet and engage in a striking battle with Hill there is a clear path to victory. I think OSP being the veteran will take advantage of it. I think he is going to score a first round submission victory shutting the door on yet another prospect.
The Pick: 1st Round Submission OSP