Bellator Dublin - Big Fight Predictions
10 minutes We take an early look at the big fights at the upcoming Bellator Champion Series in Ireland.
Bellator fans, get ready for an electrifying night of MMA action as the Champion Series heads to Dublin. With a stacked card featuring some of the sport's most promising talents and seasoned fighters, this event promises thrilling bouts and unforgettable moments.
Here's an early look at the matchups and predictions for what could be an epic night in the MMA calendar!
Nathan Kelly vs. Jose Sasi Sanchez
Prediction: Nathan Kelly by First-Round Submission
Nathan Kelly, sporting a solid 10-2 record, is set to face Jose Sasi Sanchez, who boasts a 13-2 record. However, despite Sanchez's seemingly impressive record, his recent performances suggest he may be outmatched in this bout. Sanchez started his career with an 11-0 streak but has since struggled against higher-caliber opponents, notably losing to Fipe Maya and Kasan Maga Maerov. This history of faltering against stronger fighters makes him a prime target for Kelly's aggressive grappling style.
Kelly, on the other hand, has been on a tear, showcasing a well-rounded skill set with a particular emphasis on his submission game. His ground control and submission proficiency have been key factors in his recent victories. Kelly's fans were disappointed when his anticipated fight with Fabar Diata fell through, but this match against Sanchez offers him a chance to demonstrate his capabilities once more.
Given Sanchez's vulnerabilities on the ground, Kelly is likely to capitalize early. Expect Kelly to take the fight to the mat quickly and secure a dominant position. From there, his superior grappling should lead to a swift first-round submission, boosting his record to an impressive 11-2 and solidifying his status as a rising star in the Bellator ranks.
Francisco Berserker Nozi vs. Shinobu Ota
Prediction: Francisco Nozi by Unanimous Decision
Francisco Berserker Nozi (10-1) enters the cage intending to extend his winning streak against the seasoned grappler Shinobu Ota (6-3). Nozi, known for his striking prowess, has been a polarizing figure among fans, with many eagerly anticipating his downfall. However, his ability to control fights with his striking has kept him ahead, despite controversial decisions in the past.
Shinobu Ota, an accomplished wrestler, poses a unique challenge for Nozi. Ota's background in grappling could potentially neutralize Nozi's striking if he can close the distance and impose his will on the mat. However, Ota's record shows inconsistencies, particularly against strikers who can maintain distance and dictate the pace of the fight.
Nozi's size and reach advantage will likely play a crucial role in this bout. By keeping the fight standing and utilizing his superior striking, Nozi can avoid Ota's takedowns and control the fight from a distance. Expect Nozi to use his jab and leg kicks to keep Ota at bay, gradually wearing him down over three rounds.
While Ota may have moments of success, especially in grappling exchanges, Nozi's overall control and striking volume should secure him a 30-27 unanimous decision victory. This win will push Nozi to an 11-1 record, although fans and analysts will continue to debate his performances and potential weaknesses.
Smooth Simeon Powell vs. Abdella "The Golden Boy" Arami
Prediction: Simeon Powell by Second Round Knockout
Smooth Simeon Powell (9-1) steps into the cage with something to prove after facing criticism and doubts following recent bouts. Known for his knockout power, Powell faces Abdella "The Golden Boy" Arami (7-1), a fighter who has shown resilience and skill but may be outmatched in terms of striking.
Powell's recent fight history has been turbulent. Initially set to face high-caliber opponents, Powell ended up fighting lesser-known fighters due to cancellations and adjustments. Despite these challenges, Powell's raw power and striking abilities have remained evident. In this matchup, his objective will be to re-establish himself as a knockout artist and dispel any doubts about his potential.
Arami, while skilled, has shown vulnerabilities, particularly when facing opponents with significant knockout power. Powell's game plan will likely involve a cautious first round, where he assesses Arami's approach and looks for openings. The second round is where Powell's power will come into play. Expect him to find his range and unleash a barrage of strikes, culminating in a highlight-reel knockout.
This victory will elevate Powell's record to 10-1 and restore some of his lost momentum. For Arami, this fight represents a crucial learning experience against a top-tier striker, highlighting areas for improvement in future bouts.
Alena Canon Cesnik vs. Sarah Collins
Prediction: Sarah Collins by Split Decision
Sarah Collins (5-0) is an undefeated prospect who has been making waves in the Australian regional scene. She faces Alena Canon Cesnik (9-6), a more experienced fighter with a mixed record. Despite her undefeated status, Collins will face a tough challenge in Cesnik, who has faced high-level competition and possesses significant experience.
Collins' rise has been marked by dominant performances, particularly in grappling. She has shown an ability to control fights on the ground, a skill that could be crucial against Cesnik. Cesnik, despite her 9-6 record, has notable wins and has competed against tough opponents, which gives her a depth of experience that Collins has yet to encounter.
The fight is expected to be closely contested. Collins will likely attempt to take the fight to the ground, where she can utilize her grappling skills. Cesnik, on the other hand, will aim to keep the fight standing and use her striking to disrupt Collins' rhythm. The key to victory for Collins will be her ability to impose her grappling game without getting caught in Cesnik's striking range.
Given the close nature of their skills and experience, the fight could go either way. However, Collins' recent momentum and her undefeated status might give her the edge in the eyes of the judges. Expect a split-decision victory for Collins, with her grappling being the deciding factor in a very close contest.
Norbert Magic Nova Jr. vs. Dalton Hercules Rosta
Prediction: Dalton Rosta by Unanimous Decision
Dalton Rosta (6-1) faces Norbert Magic Nova Jr. (6-0) in a highly anticipated bout that pits two promising middleweights against each other. Rosta, despite a recent setback, remains a formidable wrestler with a well-rounded skill set. Nova Jr., an athletic and versatile fighter, will look to maintain his undefeated record.
Rosta's last fight exposed some vulnerabilities, but he has shown resilience and an ability to adapt. His wrestling base gives him a significant advantage in controlling the pace and position of the fight. Nova Jr., younger and slightly shorter, will rely on his athleticism and diverse skill set to challenge Rosta.
The fight is expected to be a tactical battle, with Rosta aiming to utilize his wrestling to neutralize Nova Jr.'s striking and dynamic movement. Nova Jr. will need to keep the fight standing and use his speed to avoid takedowns and score points with strikes.
Rosta's experience and wrestling should give him the edge. By controlling the fight on the ground and avoiding significant damage on the feet, Rosta can secure a 29-28 unanimous decision victory. This win would hand Nova Jr. his first professional loss and reaffirm Rosta's status as a top prospect in the middleweight division.
Kasum KAS vs. Matas Adamas
Prediction: Kasum KAS by Submission
Kasum KAS (15-1) enters this bout with a clear objective: to secure a title shot with a dominant performance over Matas Adamas (14-2). Known for his grappling prowess, KAS is expected to use his superior ground game to control and finish Adamas, a skilled fighter but not on the same level in grappling.
KAS has shown vulnerability in his last fight, which he narrowly won, but his overall grappling skills remain elite. Adamas, with a respectable record, has demonstrated striking ability and resilience, but his ground game is likely not at the same level as KAS's.
The fight will likely see KAS looking to take it to the ground early. Adamas will aim to keep the fight standing and use his striking to damage KAS and avoid takedowns. However, KAS's relentless pursuit of the takedown and his ability to control opponents on the ground should eventually lead to a submission victory.
Expect KAS to secure a dominant position and finish the fight with a submission in the second round. This win will not only improve his record to 16-1 but also position him as a top contender for a title shot, showcasing his skills and making a statement in the division.
Sinead Kavanagh vs. Arlene Angerfist Blencowe
Prediction: Sinead Kavanagh by Unanimous Decision
In a rematch seven years in the making, Sinead Kavanagh (7-5) faces Arlene Angerfist Blencowe (14-8). The first encounter saw Blencowe winning by a split decision, but much has changed since then. Kavanagh, despite her mixed record, has shown significant improvement and resilience, making her a tough opponent for Blencowe.
Blencowe, now 41, is a seasoned veteran with a wealth of experience, but age might be catching up with her. Kavanagh, though still 38, is slightly younger and has been more active in recent years. Her improved skills and conditioning will play a crucial role in this fight.
Kavanagh will likely look to utilize her striking and keep the fight at a distance, avoiding Blencowe's power shots. Her ability to mix in takedowns and control the fight on the ground could also be a key factor. Blencowe, on the other hand, will aim to use her experience and power to land significant strikes and control the pace.
Expect a closely contested fight, with Kavanagh's improved skill set and strategy giving her the edge. A 29-28 unanimous decision in her favor seems likely, avenging her previous loss and proving her growth as a fighter.
Paul Hughes vs. Bobby King
Prediction: Paul Hughes by Unanimous Decision
Paul Hughes (8-1), a rising star in the featherweight division, faces the experienced Bobby King (10-5) in what promises to be a high-paced and technical bout. Hughes, known for his technical striking and grappling, is looking to continue his ascent in the division.
King, with a wealth of experience and resilience, poses a significant challenge. His ability to withstand punishment and keep pressing forward makes him a tough opponent for any fighter. However, Hughes' technical prowess and strategic fight approach should give him the upper hand.
Hughes will likely utilize his superior striking to control the distance and dictate the pace of the fight. His ability to mix in takedowns and control the fight on the ground will be crucial in securing a victory. King will aim to pressure Hughes and look for openings to land significant strikes and possibly turn the tide.
The fight is expected to go the distance, with Hughes' technical abilities and fight IQ allowing him to control the majority of the rounds. A 30-27 unanimous decision victory for Hughes seems likely, as he continues to establish himself as a formidable contender in the featherweight division.
Jason "The Ass Kicking Machine" Jackson vs. Ramazan Kurmagomedov
Prediction: Jason Jackson by Third Round Knockout
In the main event, Jason Jackson (14-4) takes on the undefeated Ramazan Kurmagomedov (12-0) in a highly anticipated welterweight clash. Jackson, known for his striking and wrestling skills, faces a formidable opponent in Kurmagomedov, who has shown impressive grappling and striking abilities.
Jackson, with his experience and well-rounded skill set, is coming off a string of impressive performances against top-tier opponents. His ability to control the fight with his striking and wrestling will be crucial in this matchup. Kurmagomedov, despite his undefeated record, has not faced an opponent of Jackson's caliber.
The fight is expected to be a back-and-forth battle, with both fighters having their moments. Jackson's game plan will likely involve using his wrestling to neutralize Kurmagomedov's grappling and keeping the fight standing where he can utilize his striking power. Kurmagomedov will look to impose his grappling game and control the fight on the ground.
As the fight progresses, Jackson's experience and conditioning should give him the edge. Expect him to find an opening in the third round, landing a significant strike that leads to a knockout victory. This win will hand Kurmagomedov his first professional loss and solidify Jackson's status as a top contender in the welterweight division, potentially setting him up for a title shot shortly.