UFC Fight Night Louisville Kentucky: Predictions and Breakdown
We take a look at the upcoming UFC card from Kentucky this weekend featuring Jared Cannonier v Nassourdine Imavov
Saturday’s UFC Louisville Fight Night event is just around the corner!
This exciting card promises a night of intense action and thrilling matchups. Headlining the event is a highly anticipated 185-pound clash between former UFC middleweight title challenger Jared Cannonier and rising star Nassourdine Imavov. Both fighters are eager to make a statement in the Octagon, and fans can expect a showdown full of power and precision.
The co-main event features another electrifying bout, as former title challenger Dominick Reyes steps into the cage against the formidable Dustin Jacoby in a light heavyweight battle. This fight is set to deliver fireworks, with both athletes known for their striking prowess and determination.
Where to Watch UFC Fight Night
The prelims are scheduled to begin at 11pm BST, leading up to the main card, which kicks off at 2am BST on Sunday, June 9.
Wondering how to catch all the action? In the UK, you can watch the event live on TNT Sports, with streaming options available on the broadcaster’s app and website. Discovery+ will also air the fights.
Stay tuned as we dive deeper into the matchups and what to expect from this electrifying night of fights, offering online MMA betting predictions for each figh!
Puja Tomar vs. Rayanne dos Santos
In the opening bout of UFC Fight Night Louisville, we have Puja Tomar facing off against Rayanne. Tomar, a strawweight fighter known for her stint in ONE FC, has struggled early in her career but has since strung together a series of wins. Despite her record, it's worth noting that these victories have come against less formidable opponents. Standing at 5'1", Tomar's previous experience in ONE FC suggests she's more of an atom-weight fighter, which may put her at a size disadvantage in this matchup.
Rayanne dos Santos, on the other hand, is slightly larger and possesses a grappling background, which has proven to be a weakness for Tomar in past fights. Rayanne, at 28 years old, has more experience and is likely to use her size and grappling skills to control the fight. Given Tomar's mixed results and Rayanne 's physical advantages, the prediction here leans towards Rayanne securing a win, possibly through a ground-based strategy that exploits Tomar's vulnerabilities.
Prediction: Rayanne dos Santos to win.
Rayanne dos Santos - 3/10
Cody Staman vs. Taylor Lapilus
Next up, we see Cody Staman take on Taylor Lapilus. Staman, a 34-year-old fighter, has had a mixed run in the UFC, often struggling to implement his wrestling effectively. Although he has faced high-caliber opponents like Aljamain Sterling and Merab Dvalishvili, his recent inactivity (over a year out of the cage) raises concerns about his current form and sharpness.
Taylor Lapilus, by contrast, is a taller, rangier fighter who can use his physical attributes to keep Staman at bay. His ability to defend against takedowns and utilize his long limbs to strike from a distance makes him a formidable opponent for someone like Staman, who relies heavily on closing the distance. Lapilus' ability to keep the fight standing and use his reach to score points could be the decisive factor here. Given Staman's decline and Lapilus' physical advantages, the prediction is for Lapilus to outpoint Staman over the course of the fight.
Prediction: Taylor Lapilus to win.
Taylor Lapilus - 4/11
Eduarda Moura vs. Denise Gomes
Eduarda Moura faces Denise Gomes in a women's strawweight bout. Moura is an undefeated prospect with a record of 10-0, known for her strong grappling skills. She missed weight in her last fight but managed to secure a win, showcasing her resilience and ability to handle adversity. Moura's grappling could be the key to this fight, as she has consistently been able to dominate opponents on the ground.
Denise Gomes, despite her power, has shown vulnerabilities in her grappling. She recently lost a grappling match earlier this year, highlighting a potential weakness that Moura can exploit. While Gomes has notable wins and the ability to finish fights with her striking, Moura's ground game gives her a significant advantage. Expect Moura to take the fight to the mat and work towards a submission victory, capitalizing on Gomes's grappling deficiencies.
Prediction: Eduarda Moura to win.
Eduarda Moura - 8/13
Daniel Marcos vs. John Castaneda
In the final prelim bout, Daniel Marcos takes on John Castaneda. Marcos, an undefeated fighter with a record of 15-0, has shown great potential and continuous improvement. Despite a controversial decision win over Davey Grant, Marcos has demonstrated the ability to control fights and dominate opponents. His recent performances indicate a fighter on the rise, capable of making adjustments and progressing with each bout.
John Castaneda, with 27 fights under his belt, has experienced the highs and lows of an MMA career. While he has some impressive wins, his inconsistency and recent performances raise questions about his ability to compete at a high level. Castaneda's extensive fight history suggests he may be set in his ways, making it difficult to expect significant improvements at this stage of his career. Marcos' upward trajectory and Castaneda's mixed results make Marcos the favorite to win this fight, likely through a combination of striking and control.
Prediction: Daniel Marcos to win.
Daniel Marcos - 4/5
Andrea Lee vs. Montana De La Rosa
In a closely contested bout, Andrea Lee is favored to edge out Montana De La Rosa. Lee's striking prowess and physical conditioning are key factors in this prediction. At 35, Lee brings a level of maturity and intensity to the fight, driven by her need for a decisive victory at this stage of her career. Despite her recent loss to Natalia Silva, Lee's ability to deliver effective damage sets her apart. De La Rosa, though a competent grappler, hasn't demonstrated the same level of striking ability. Her recent performance against JJ Aldrich showed vulnerabilities that Lee can exploit. Lee's previous bout against Macy Barber also highlighted her superior stand-up game compared to De La Rosa. With a physical edge and a pressing need to win, Andrea Lee is predicted to secure a victory through her striking and relentless aggression.
Prediction: Andrea Lee via Decision
Andrea Lee - 8/13
Brad Katona vs. Jesse Butler
This matchup presents a tough challenge for Brad Katona. Despite his technical skills, Katona has struggled to assert dominance in recent fights. Jesse Butler, on the other hand, brings a significant reach advantage and physical presence to the octagon. At 32, Butler is entering his prime and has the potential to capitalize on Katona's weaknesses. Katona's inability to finish fights and inflict substantial damage raises concerns about his effectiveness. In contrast, Butler's aggressive style and finishing potential make him a dangerous opponent. Although Katona has a solid grappling game, Butler's size and reach could prove too much to handle. This fight is poised for an upset, with Butler leveraging his physical attributes to outstrike and possibly finish Katona.
Prediction: Jesse Butler via TKO
Jesse Butler - 4/1
Charles Radtke vs. Carlos Prates
Carlos Prates is expected to emerge victorious against Charles Radtke. Prates, an up-and-coming fighter, possesses a reach advantage and a diverse striking arsenal. Radtke, while showing some KO power, struggled in his debut against Blood Diamond, revealing significant gaps in his game. Prates' recent performances, including a notable win streak and success in kickboxing, indicate a fighter hitting his stride. At 30, Prates is in his prime and ready to capitalize on Radtke's weaknesses. Prates' ability to maintain distance and outstrike his opponent will be crucial. Radtke's reliance on power shots may leave him vulnerable to Prates' more technical and precise striking. Expect Prates to control the fight and secure a TKO in the second round.
Prediction: Carlos Prates via Second Round TKO
Carlos Prates - 7/4
Carlos Prates (Round 2) - 9/1
Thiago Moises vs. Ludovit Klein
Thiago Moises is the favored pick against Ludovit Klein. Moises, with his strong Jiu-Jitsu base, has shown resilience and adaptability in his fights. While Klein is a promising fighter with solid striking, his recent performances have been inconsistent. Moises' experience and grappling prowess give him an edge, especially if the fight goes to the ground. Klein's tendency to fight patiently may play into Moises' hands, allowing him to set up takedowns and control the pace. Moises' need to secure a win to maintain his standing in the division adds to his motivation. Expect Moises to utilize his grappling to neutralize Klein's striking and secure a decision victory through effective control and ground game.
Prediction: Thiago Moises via Decision
Thiago Moises - EVS
Thiago Moises (Decision) - 7/2
Punahele Soriano vs. Miguel Baeza
Miguel Baeza steps back into the octagon after a significant hiatus, ready to prove his mettle against Punahele Soriano. Soriano's decision to drop to welterweight is questionable, given his natural build as a middleweight. This move might not work in his favor, as his frame and fighting style are better suited for the middleweight division. Baser, on the other hand, is a formidable opponent at welterweight, boasting the size and skill to compete effectively.
Baeza’s extensive experience and physical attributes give him an edge in this fight. Standing close to 6'2", Baeza’s reach and size will likely neutralize Soriano's power, especially since Baser has shown resilience against heavy hitters like Chaos Williams. Additionally, Baeza's recent participation in a grappling tournament indicates he has been staying sharp and managing his competition nerves.
Given Soriano's recent struggles and Baeza's promising early career, Baser appears to have the upper hand. If Baeza can survive the initial onslaught, he has the potential to dominate in the later rounds.
Prediction: Miguel Baeza by decision or a late-round finish.
Miguel Baeza - 1/2
Miguel Baeza (Decision) - 3/1Miguel Baeza (Round 3) - 15/2
Julian Marquez vs. Zachary Reese
Julian Marquez, a perennial main card attraction despite his recent losses, faces off against Zachary Reese. Marquez’s charisma and entertaining fighting style keep him in the spotlight, but his recent performances raise questions about his dedication to the sport. His back-to-back losses to Marc-André Barriault and Gregory Rodrigues highlight his declining form and susceptibility to damage.
Zachary Reese, in contrast, is fighting with a sense of urgency and purpose. At 30 years old, Reese's career trajectory suggests this fight is a make-or-break opportunity. Despite a controversial loss to Cody Brundage by slam KO, Reese has shown resilience and the ability to finish fights. His determination and focus could be the deciding factors against a seemingly distracted Marquez.
Reese’s finishing potential and Marquez’s apparent lack of focus lead to a strong case for Reese securing a first-round finish. Marquez's tendency to get drawn into reckless exchanges might be his downfall.
Prediction: Zachary Reese by first-round knockout.
Zachary Reese - 11/10Zachary Reese (Round 1) - 2/1
Bruno Ferreira vs. Dustin Stoltzfus
In a middleweight clash, Bruno Ferreira takes on Dustin Stoltzfus in what promises to be an explosive encounter. Ferreira, known for his aggressive striking, is looking to bounce back after a tough loss to Nursulton Ruziboev. Ferreira's striking power and aggression make him a dangerous opponent for Stoltzfus, who has struggled against top-tier competition.
Stoltzfus has had moments of brilliance but has not consistently performed at the highest level. His wrestling and grappling skills are noteworthy, but he often finds himself overwhelmed by more aggressive strikers. Ferreira’s ability to dictate the pace and his fearsome knockout power pose significant challenges for Stoltzfus.
Ferreira’s relentless pressure and striking capability are likely to be too much for Stoltzfus to handle. Expect Ferreira to come out swinging and secure a knockout victory early in the fight.
Prediction: Bruno Ferreira by first-round knockout.
Bruno Ferreira - 4/11Bruno Ferreira (Round 1) - 4/11
Raul Rosas Jr. vs. Ricky Turcios
Rising star Raul Rosas Jr. faces Ricky Turcios in a bantamweight bout that could showcase the future of the division. Rosas Jr., with his impressive grappling and relentless pursuit of submissions, is a formidable opponent for anyone. His ability to take the back and secure chokes makes him a significant threat.
Turcios, once seen as a potential star, has struggled to live up to expectations. His split decision win over Kevin Natividad and lackluster performance against Aiemann Zahabi indicate a fighter who has lost his edge. Turcios’s defensive style and reluctance to engage aggressively make him vulnerable against a fighter like Rosas Jr., who thrives on forward pressure and submission attempts.
Rosas Jr.'s tenacity and grappling prowess are likely to overwhelm Turcios. Look for Rosas Jr. to secure an early takedown and work towards a submission finish.
Prediction: Raul Rosas Jr. by first-round rear-naked choke.
Raul Rosas Jr - 2/5
Raul Rosas Jr (Round 1) - 9/4
Dominic Reyes vs. Dustin Jacoby
In the upcoming bout between Dominic Reyes and Dustin Jacoby, it’s tough to place confidence in Reyes given his recent performance. Reyes has struggled significantly, suffering multiple TKO losses, including a knockout by a jab in his last fight. His bout against Jon Jones, where many believed he was robbed of a victory, seemed to have a profound psychological impact on him. This has led to a series of demoralizing defeats.
On the other hand, Jacoby presents a formidable challenge. Known for his fast start and relentless pace, Jacoby is likely to capitalize on Reyes' tentative approach. Jacoby’s ability to quickly rack up significant strikes, such as low kicks and jabs, will give him an early advantage. Reyes, needing time to ease into fights, may find himself playing catch-up throughout the bout.
The prediction here leans towards Dustin Jacoby winning by decision. Expect a scorecard of 29-28 or even 30-27 in favor of Jacoby. Reyes might have his moments, but they are expected to be insufficient to secure a win. Jacoby’s aggressive style and Reyes’ current form suggest that Jacoby will emerge victorious by outworking Reyes across all three rounds.
Prediction: Dustin Jacoby winning by decision
Dustin Jacoby - 4/9
Dustin Jacoby (Decision) - 3/1
Jared Cannonier vs. Nassourdine Imavov
The main event features Jared Cannonier taking on Nassourdine Imavov, a match that promises to be intriguing. Cannonier, known for his versatility and ability to adapt, faces Imavov, who has shown promise but often falters when it comes to finishing fights. Imavov's performance against Roman Dolidze was particularly underwhelming, showcasing a low pace and a lack of finishing instinct.
Cannonier’s strength lies in his persistence and ability to maintain a high level of performance throughout the fight. Imavov, conversely, tends to slow down, making him vulnerable in the later rounds. Cannonier’s fight IQ and ability to work his opponents up against the cage will be crucial in this bout. His recent performance against Marvin Vettori, where he showcased superior skill and conditioning, reinforces the belief that he can handle Imavov.
Given these factors, the prediction is that Jared Cannonier will win by a split decision. Imavov might take the early rounds, but Cannonier’s endurance and strategy are expected to secure him victory in the later stages. A score of 48-47 in favor of Cannonier seems likely, with Cannonier pulling ahead in the championship rounds to clinch the fight.
Prediction: Jared Cannonier will win by a split decision
Jared Cannonier - EVSJared Cannonier (Decision) - 9/4
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