Ring of Combat 85 Fight Card Analysis

 
 

**Ring of Combat 85** is set to deliver another thrilling night of mixed martial arts action, featuring some of the most promising up-and-coming talent in the sport. As one of the premier regional MMA promotions, Ring of Combat has a reputation for being a launching pad for future stars, with many former fighters going on to compete in major organizations like the UFC. ROC 85 promises intense matchups, including title fights and rising prospects eager to make their mark on the MMA world. Fans can expect high-level competition, knockout finishes, and relentless action throughout the event.

Josh Bonneau vs Eli Guzman

Josh Bonneau

Bonneau is primarily a grappler, known for his strong wrestling base and excellent ground control. His focus on takedowns and submission attempts has earned him a reputation as a relentless fighter when the action goes to the mat.

Bonneau’s wrestling is top-tier, and once he gets his opponents to the ground, he excels at maintaining control and transitioning to dominant positions. His cardio is another strong point, allowing him to push a grinding pace for the full duration of the fight.

On the feet, Bonneau lacks the striking proficiency of some of his peers. His stand-up game is functional but not particularly threatening. If he struggles to secure takedowns, he may have difficulty in extended striking exchanges.

Eli Guzman

Guzman is a dynamic striker with a background in Muay Thai and kickboxing. His striking is fluid and creative, with a wide range of weapons, including sharp leg kicks, elbows, and punches. He prefers to keep fights at a distance where he can unleash his stand-up arsenal.

Guzman’s striking versatility and ability to control the distance make him a dangerous opponent for any fighter trying to close the gap. His knockout power is evident, and he is always a threat to finish the fight with a well-placed strike.

Guzman’s grappling is less developed compared to his striking. If Bonneau can take him down, Guzman may find himself struggling to defend against ground-and-pound or submission attempts. His takedown defense will be a critical factor in this fight.

Analysis

This fight is shaping up to be a classic striker vs. grappler battle, with each fighter having a clear path to victory. Bonneau will be looking to close the distance early, secure takedowns, and control Guzman on the mat. He’ll need to avoid prolonged exchanges on the feet, where Guzman’s superior striking could put him in danger.

Guzman, on the other hand, will aim to keep the fight standing, using his footwork and striking range to punish Bonneau's takedown attempts. If he can stuff Bonneau’s takedowns and stay at a safe distance, he could outstrike his opponent or even secure a knockout.

The outcome will likely hinge on whether Bonneau can impose his grappling on Guzman or if Guzman can defend takedowns and turn the fight into a striking contest. If it goes to the ground, Bonneau has the edge, but if Guzman keeps it standing, it could be a tough night for Bonneau.

S. Williams and Marcus Reid

Shamar Williams' Strengths:

  • Striking Power: Williams has demonstrated knockout power, securing multiple victories via TKO, often overwhelming opponents with his aggressive stand-up game​. His ability to capitalize on his opponents' mistakes in striking exchanges makes him a dangerous fighter on the feet.

  • Pressure Fighter: Williams tends to apply forward pressure, looking to engage quickly and impose his striking, making him a fast starter who could aim for an early finish​ (LCA Sports Management).

Marcus Reid's Strengths:

  • Grappling and Submissions: Reid's strength lies in his ground game, particularly Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. With a series of amateur wins by submission, Reid would likely seek to take the fight to the ground, where he can utilize his submission skills, such as the rear-naked choke (FightMatrix)​(Sherdog).

  • Tactical Approach: Reid is likely to employ a patient strategy, aiming to avoid Williams' striking range while setting up takedowns and positioning for submissions.

Key Factors:

  1. Williams' Takedown Defense: If Williams can keep the fight standing, his striking advantage could allow him to dominate. However, if Reid successfully takes him down, Williams could find himself in trouble against Reid's submission game.

  2. Reid's Ability to Close Distance: Reid would need to close the distance and initiate grappling exchanges without taking too much damage from Williams' strikes. His ability to manage distance and timing on his takedowns would be crucial.

  3. Cardio: Williams' aggressive pace might be a double-edged sword if Reid can weather the storm and drag the fight into later rounds. Reid’s endurance and ability to maintain control on the ground could tilt the fight in his favor.

Prediction:

If Williams can land his strikes early and avoid the ground, he has a strong chance of finishing the fight by TKO. On the other hand, if Reid can get the fight to the ground, his superior grappling may lead to a submission victory. The fight likely comes down to whether Reid can withstand the early pressure and impose his grappling before Williams connects with significant strikes.

V. Constantino and Cole Cameron

V. Constantino

Constantino is a dynamic striker known for his precise, technical striking, with a background in Muay Thai. His stand-up game is built around controlling the distance and landing powerful, well-timed strikes. He also utilizes kicks effectively to break down opponents over the course of a fight.

Constantino’s greatest asset is his striking, particularly his ability to use his range to keep opponents at bay while setting up combinations. His cardio is solid, allowing him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight. He also possesses good footwork, which enables him to avoid dangerous situations and set up counterattacks.

Constantino’s grappling has been a point of criticism in the past. While his takedown defense is improving, he struggles when forced into extended grappling exchanges, particularly against high-level wrestlers. If taken to the ground, he may have difficulty defending submissions or getting back to his feet.

Cole Cameron

Cameron is a grappling specialist with a strong background in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He is known for his ability to take opponents down and control them on the mat. His submission game is dangerous, with several of his victories coming via choke or joint locks.

Cameron’s wrestling is his key weapon. He excels at closing the distance, initiating clinches, and securing takedowns. Once on the ground, his grappling skills allow him to maintain dominant positions and hunt for submissions. His top control is stifling, making it difficult for opponents to escape.

Cameron’s striking is not as well-rounded as his grappling. On the feet, he tends to be vulnerable to more technical strikers, especially those who can keep the fight at a distance. If he is unable to get his takedowns or close the distance, he may struggle to deal with Constantino’s striking from range.

Analysis

This fight is shaping up to be another classic striker vs. grappler matchup, with each fighter looking to impose their strengths. Constantino will need to focus on keeping the fight standing, using his striking and footwork to avoid Cameron’s takedowns. If he can maintain distance and punish Cameron on the feet, he’ll be able to control the fight.

For Cameron, the key will be closing the distance and getting the fight to the mat. If he can drag Constantino into a grappling exchange, he’ll likely have the advantage, especially if he can secure a dominant position. Cameron’s path to victory lies in neutralizing Constantino’s striking and controlling him on the ground.

Ultimately, this fight will be decided by who can dictate where the action takes place. If Constantino can stay on his feet, his striking advantage could overwhelm Cameron. However, if Cameron can force a ground battle, his grappling prowess could lead him to victory.

Bobby Casale vs Michael Bruno

Bobby Casale

Casale is a well-rounded fighter known for his aggressive approach and versatility in both striking and grappling. He has a background in kickboxing but has also developed a solid grappling game, making him a dangerous opponent in any position.

Casale’s biggest strength is his ability to switch seamlessly between striking and grappling. His stand-up game is aggressive, with heavy punches and powerful kicks, but he is also comfortable in grappling exchanges. His cardio is a strong suit, allowing him to maintain a relentless pace throughout the fight. Casale also excels in close-range combat, where he can deliver damaging strikes or work for takedowns.

Casale's biggest vulnerability may lie in his defense. He tends to get caught up in aggressive exchanges, leaving openings for counterattacks. If he faces a more technical striker or a disciplined grappler, this eagerness to push the pace could backfire. Additionally, while his grappling is solid, it’s not elite, which could leave him exposed against a high-level wrestler or submission artist.

Michael Bruno

Bruno is a grappling specialist with a strong wrestling base and a dangerous submission game. He prefers to take the fight to the ground, where he can control his opponents and work for submissions. Bruno is known for his ability to dictate the pace of the fight once it hits the mat.

Bruno’s grappling is his standout skill. His wrestling is top-tier, allowing him to secure takedowns with ease. Once on the ground, he’s excellent at maintaining control and looking for submission opportunities. His grappling transitions are smooth, making him a threat in scrambles. Bruno also has good fight IQ, often working to neutralize his opponent’s strengths and avoid unnecessary risks.

Bruno’s striking is serviceable but not as developed as his grappling. If he can’t get the fight to the ground, he may find himself outmatched in striking exchanges, particularly against someone with Casale’s aggressive style. His ability to absorb damage on the feet is a concern, and if the fight stays standing for extended periods, it could become difficult for him to impose his game plan.

Analysis

This fight will likely come down to whether Casale can keep the fight standing or if Bruno can drag it to the mat. Casale’s aggressive striking and well-rounded game could overwhelm Bruno if he’s able to defend the takedowns and keep the fight at a distance. He’ll need to use his footwork and takedown defense to frustrate Bruno and capitalize on his striking advantage.

On the other hand, Bruno’s path to victory is clear: he’ll want to close the distance, secure a takedown, and control Casale on the ground. If he can get Casale to the mat, his superior grappling could lead him to a submission or dominant control, wearing down Casale over time.

The key factor in this fight will be whether Casale’s striking and aggression can break through Bruno’s grappling or if Bruno can implement his wrestling to neutralize Casale’s offense. Casale will need to stay disciplined and avoid grappling exchanges, while Bruno’s success will hinge on his ability to close the distance and avoid extended striking exchanges. This is a classic striker vs. grappler matchup with both fighters having clear paths to victory depending on where the fight takes place.

G. Parriott and Torance LaCour

G. Parriott

Parriott is known for his well-rounded skill set, with a particular emphasis on grappling. His ability to control the pace of the fight, whether on the feet or the ground, makes him a versatile and difficult opponent to prepare for.

Parriott’s grappling, particularly his wrestling, is one of his strongest assets. He’s skilled at securing takedowns and controlling opponents on the mat, often grinding them down with top pressure and ground-and-pound. His ability to maintain dominant positions and transition smoothly between grappling exchanges gives him an edge against opponents who lack strong takedown defense. Additionally, Parriott’s cardio allows him to maintain a steady pace throughout the fight, making him dangerous in later rounds.

Parriott’s striking, while competent, isn’t as polished as his grappling. Against elite strikers, he may struggle to close the distance without absorbing damage. His stand-up game is more defensive, and if he’s forced into a striking war, he could be at a disadvantage. He also tends to rely heavily on his wrestling, which could become predictable if he doesn’t mix up his game plan effectively.

Torance LaCour

LaCour is an explosive striker with a background in Muay Thai and kickboxing. He thrives in the stand-up game, where his power and precision make him a threat to finish fights quickly. LaCour is known for his aggressive approach, often looking to overwhelm his opponents with a barrage of strikes.

LaCour’s striking is his biggest weapon. He’s a powerful and accurate striker, with knockout potential in both his hands and legs. His ability to control distance and create angles allows him to land significant strikes, often putting his opponents on the back foot. LaCour is also dangerous in the clinch, where he can deliver devastating knees and elbows. If he keeps the fight standing, he can dominate with his striking.

LaCour’s grappling is not on the same level as his striking. While he has worked on improving his takedown defense, if Parriott can get the fight to the ground, LaCour may find himself in trouble. His submission defense and ability to get back to his feet are areas where he is still developing. If he can’t keep the fight standing, he may struggle against Parriott’s grappling control.

Analysis

This fight presents a classic striker vs. grappler scenario, with both Parriott and LaCour having clear paths to victory. Parriott will likely look to take the fight to the ground, where his wrestling and control will give him the edge. If he can secure takedowns early and keep LaCour on the mat, he can wear him down and potentially secure a submission or grind out a decision victory.

On the other hand, LaCour’s best chance is to keep the fight standing, where he can use his superior striking to inflict damage and possibly finish the fight. He’ll need to focus on maintaining distance, defending takedowns, and capitalizing on any openings Parriott leaves in the stand-up exchanges.

The key to the fight will be whether Parriott can impose his grappling or if LaCour can defend the takedowns and turn the fight into a striking battle. If Parriott controls the grappling exchanges, he’ll likely dominate the fight. However, if LaCour can keep the fight standing, his knockout power could end the night early for Parriott.

Bill Markle vs Chris Disonell

Bill Markle

Bill Markle is known for his grappling-heavy style, particularly with a focus on wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He tends to take a patient, calculated approach, using his grappling to control opponents on the ground and work for submissions or dominant positions.

Markle’s wrestling is his standout skill, and he excels at controlling the pace of a fight by initiating takedowns and keeping opponents on their backs. He’s particularly dangerous when he gets on top, where he can either rain down ground-and-pound or work methodically toward a submission. His fight IQ is high, and he knows how to minimize damage while keeping himself in advantageous positions.

Markle’s striking is not as developed as his grappling, and he can be vulnerable in stand-up exchanges if he’s unable to close the distance for a takedown. Against a high-level striker, he may struggle to manage the fight on the feet, especially if his opponent can stuff his takedowns. His striking defense can also be a weak point when forced to engage in prolonged exchanges.

Chris Disonell

Chris Disonell is primarily a striker, with sharp boxing skills and a good sense of range control. He is known for his aggressive stand-up game and ability to put pressure on opponents with precise combinations. Disonell’s style revolves around keeping the fight on the feet and overwhelming opponents with his speed and striking accuracy.

Disonell’s striking is his biggest weapon, and he has knockout power in both his hands and legs. He’s comfortable exchanging in the pocket or working from a distance, and his movement allows him to avoid getting caught in grappling exchanges. If he’s able to dictate the range, Disonell has the ability to finish fights with strikes, and his cardio allows him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight.

Disonell’s grappling is not as developed as his striking, and if he’s taken to the ground, he could struggle against a strong wrestler like Markle. His takedown defense will need to be sharp to keep the fight standing. If Markle can consistently drag him into grappling exchanges, Disonell could find himself in trouble, especially if he ends up on his back.

Analysis

This fight appears to be another classic grappler vs. striker matchup, with each fighter possessing clear paths to victory based on their strengths.

For Bill Markle: His strategy will likely revolve around closing the distance and initiating takedowns. If he can get Disonell to the ground, Markle can control the fight with his superior grappling. He’ll want to avoid prolonged striking exchanges and focus on smothering Disonell’s offense by keeping him on the mat, where he can grind out a decision or hunt for a submission.

For Chris Disonell: His game plan will be to use his striking advantage to keep Markle at bay and avoid getting taken down. Disonell’s footwork and takedown defense will be crucial in this fight, as he’ll want to use his speed and striking combinations to wear down Markle. If he can maintain the fight on the feet, he has a clear path to a knockout or outpointing Markle over the rounds.

Key to Victory

Markle will need to secure takedowns early and often, using his grappling to stifle Disonell’s offense. The longer the fight stays standing, the more danger he’s in.

Disonell will need to stay off the ground, using his striking and footwork to prevent Markle from closing the distance. If he can keep it standing, his power and precision will give him a significant edge.

Ultimately, the outcome of this fight will depend on who can dictate where the fight takes place: on the mat, where Markle shines, or on the feet, where Disonell is most dangerous.

Cole Alaxanian and John O'Dea

Cole Alaxanian

Cole Alaxanian is known for his aggressive striking and knockout power. With a background in kickboxing, he is particularly dangerous in stand-up exchanges, utilizing powerful combinations and crisp technique. His offensive approach is to push the pace and control the center of the octagon, often forcing his opponents to fight defensively.

Alaxanian’s biggest asset is his striking, especially his ability to mix up punches, kicks, and knees. His explosiveness allows him to close the distance quickly and catch opponents off-guard. Additionally, Alaxanian has solid takedown defense, which helps him keep the fight standing, where he’s most comfortable. His aggression and constant pressure often overwhelm opponent.

Alaxanian’s ground game, while not weak, isn’t as developed as his striking. Against high-level grapplers, he can sometimes struggle to get back to his feet if taken down. His aggressive style can also lead to him getting caught with counterstrikes if he’s not careful, especially against opponents with sharp defensive skills.

John O'Dea

John O'Dea is a well-rounded fighter with a strong grappling base, complemented by decent striking skills. He’s known for his ability to mix up his approach, using wrestling to take fights to the ground and implement his ground-and-pound or submission skills. O'Dea tends to fight strategically, adapting his style depending on his opponent’s weaknesses.

O'Dea’s grappling is his biggest strength. His wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu are sharp, allowing him to secure takedowns and maintain control on the ground. Once he has his opponent on the mat, he’s effective at working for submissions or dealing significant damage through ground-and-pound. His versatility makes him a difficult fighter to predict, as he can adjust his strategy mid-fight.

O'Dea’s striking, while serviceable, is not as polished as Alaxanian’s. If he’s forced to engage in a prolonged stand-up battle, he may struggle to deal with Alaxanian’s power and pressure. His takedown entries will need to be sharp, as failing to get the fight to the ground could leave him vulnerable to heavy strikes. O'Dea has also been known to struggle against fighters who are adept at defending his takedowns.

Analysis

This fight is another case of a striker vs. grappler dynamic, but with each fighter possessing enough well-rounded skills to make the fight competitive in multiple areas

For Cole Alaxanian: The key to victory will be keeping the fight standing. Alaxanian will want to use his superior striking to overwhelm O'Dea with combinations and power shots. His takedown defense will be crucial, as he’ll need to avoid being taken to the ground, where O'Dea can implement his grappling. If Alaxanian can dictate the range and pace of the fight, his knockout power could quickly turn the tide in his favor.

For John O'Dea: The path to victory for O'Dea will be to take the fight to the ground, where his grappling advantage can come into play. He’ll need to close the distance, secure takedowns, and work for submissions or dominant ground control. If he can tire Alaxanian out and neutralize his striking, O'Dea can grind out a win through grappling or even finish the fight on the mat. He will also need to avoid extended exchanges on the feet, as that’s where Alaxanian is most dangerous.

Key to Victory

Alaxanian will need to utilize his striking and movement to avoid being dragged into grappling exchanges. If he can keep the fight standing, his striking power could lead him to a knockout or a decision victory.

O'Dea will need to implement his wrestling game and take the fight to the mat as quickly as possible. His grappling is his biggest advantage, and if he can dominate Alaxanian on the ground, he could secure a submission or grind out a victory.

The fight is likely to be determined by who can impose their style: Alaxanian with his aggressive striking or O'Dea with his grappling prowess. If O'Dea can weather the early storm of Alaxanian’s striking and bring the fight to the ground, he’ll have a clear path to victory. However, if Alaxanian keeps the fight standing, he’ll be in a prime position to end the fight with a knockout.

Khamzayev vs Nodir Alidodov

T. Khamzayev

Khamzayev is known for his aggressive grappling and suffocating pressure, similar to fighters with a background in wrestling and combat sambo. His fighting style revolves around securing takedowns and controlling his opponents on the mat with relentless ground-and-pound or submission attempts.

Khamzayev’s grappling and wrestling are his most significant assets. He excels at closing the distance, initiating clinches, and using powerful takedowns to bring the fight to the ground. Once there, he uses top control to overwhelm opponents with heavy ground-and-pound or set up submission opportunities. His cardio and ability to maintain a high pace make him a difficult opponent to deal with over multiple rounds.

Khamzayev’s striking is serviceable but not his strongest attribute. He tends to rely on his grappling to dictate the fight’s flow, which means if he struggles to secure takedowns, he could be at a disadvantage in prolonged stand-up exchanges. His striking defense can also be exploited if he faces an opponent with good footwork and range management.

Nodir Alidodov

Alidodov is more of a well-rounded fighter with a preference for striking. He’s known for his technical stand-up game, using crisp combinations and movement to outpoint or knock out his opponents. Alidodov also has decent grappling defense, but his strategy typically revolves around keeping the fight standing and using his striking arsenal to control the fight.

Alidodov’s striking is his standout skill. His ability to control the distance and strike effectively with punches, kicks, and knees makes him a dangerous opponent in stand-up exchanges. He has solid takedown defense, which could be a key factor against a grappler like Khamzayev. Alidodov is also known for his fight IQ, often making the right adjustments during a fight to exploit his opponent’s weaknesses.

While Alidodov has good takedown defense, if Khamzayev is able to break through and get him to the mat, Alidodov could struggle. His ground game is not as developed as Khamzayev’s, and he could find himself in trouble if he gets stuck on his back for extended periods. Additionally, if the fight becomes a grappling-heavy contest, Alidodov’s cardio could be tested.

Analysis

This fight presents a classic grappler vs. striker matchup, with each fighter having a clear game plan for how they can win.

For T. Khamzayev: The key to victory will be closing the distance and taking Alidodov to the ground. If Khamzayev can implement his wrestling and grappling effectively, he can control Alidodov, wear him down with ground-and-pound, or work towards a submission. Khamzayev will likely try to pressure Alidodov from the start, forcing him to defend takedowns and stay on the back foot.

For Nodir Alidodov: His strategy will revolve around keeping the fight standing and using his superior striking to damage Khamzayev from range. Alidodov’s footwork and takedown defense will be crucial in preventing Khamzayev from getting into his comfort zone. If he can fend off the grappling attempts, Alidodov will have a clear advantage in the striking department, where he could either outpoint Khamzayev or look for a knockout.

Key to Victory

Khamzayev needs to rely on his grappling to neutralize Alidodov’s striking. His wrestling and ability to control opponents on the ground will be critical in securing a victory, as standing with Alidodov for too long could be dangerous.

Alidodov must use his footwork to avoid takedown attempts and keep the fight standing, where his striking will give him a decisive edge. If he can frustrate Khamzayev’s attempts to grapple and keep the fight at a distance, he has a good chance of winning the fight via decision or knockout.

Prediction

The fight will largely come down to who can impose their style first. If Khamzayev can consistently take Alidodov down, he will control the fight and likely grind out a win. However, if Alidodov can avoid the takedown and turn the bout into a striking contest, he could win by outstriking or finishing Khamzayev. The key moments will be in the transitions between striking and grappling, where both fighters will be tested.

Nick Caracappa vs Alex Brown

Nick Caracappa

Caracappa is a wrestler at heart, with a strong grappling background. He relies heavily on his ability to control opponents on the ground, using his wrestling to dictate the pace of the fight. Caracappa is known for his relentless pursuit of takedowns and his ability to grind out victories with ground control and dominant positioning.

Caracappa’s wrestling is his most dangerous weapon. He excels at closing the distance, securing takedowns, and keeping his opponents on their backs. His top control is stifling, and he can wear opponents down over the course of the fight. His cardio and ability to maintain a steady, grinding pace make him a difficult opponent for fighters who struggle with grappling. Caracappa also has a solid ground-and-pound game, using his wrestling to soften opponents up with strikes from top position.

Caracappa’s striking is not as developed as his wrestling, and he can be vulnerable in extended stand-up exchanges. If he’s unable to secure takedowns, he could struggle to deal with a more polished striker like Brown. His takedown entries will need to be sharp, as relying solely on wrestling could make his game plan predictable.

Alex Brown

Brown is primarily a striker, with a background in Muay Thai and kickboxing. He’s known for his sharp striking technique and ability to deliver powerful combinations. Brown is comfortable at range and excels at picking his opponents apart with precision strikes. His striking arsenal includes heavy leg kicks, sharp jabs, and well-timed counters.

Brown’s greatest asset is his striking versatility. He’s comfortable fighting at range and has excellent footwork, which allows him to stay out of danger and pick his shots. His ability to land accurate, powerful strikes gives him knockout potential, particularly against opponents who have less refined stand-up skills. Brown’s striking defense is also solid, as he tends to avoid taking unnecessary damage while controlling the tempo of the fight.

Brown’s grappling is not on the same level as Caracappa’s wrestling. If he is taken down, he could have difficulty getting back to his feet or defending against ground-and-pound. His takedown defense will be tested, as Caracappa is likely to shoot for takedowns early and often. If the fight stays on the ground for extended periods, Brown may find himself at a significant disadvantage.

Analysis

This fight presents a classic grappler vs. striker dynamic, with both fighters having clear paths to victory based on their strengths.

For Nick Caracappa: His game plan will be to avoid striking exchanges and get the fight to the ground as quickly as possible. If Caracappa can secure takedowns, he can control Brown on the mat and use his ground-and-pound to score points or potentially finish the fight. His relentless wrestling approach will be key in neutralizing Brown’s striking advantage. The more Caracappa can force grappling exchanges, the more the fight tilts in his favor.

For Alex Brown: Brown’s strategy will revolve around keeping the fight standing and using his superior striking to wear down Caracappa. He’ll need to stay light on his feet, use his footwork to avoid takedowns, and keep the fight at a distance where he can unleash his striking combinations. If he can stuff Caracappa’s takedowns and keep the fight upright, he’ll have a good chance of outstriking Caracappa and potentially finishing the fight with his knockout power.

Key to Victory

Caracappa needs to rely on his wrestling and control the fight on the ground. His path to victory involves grinding out a decision or securing a finish through ground control and ground-and-pound. Avoiding stand-up exchanges will be crucial for him.

Brown must keep the fight standing and use his striking to dictate the pace. His success will depend on his ability to defend against Caracappa’s takedowns and use his superior striking to land significant damage from range.

Prediction

This fight is likely to be determined by where the majority of the action takes place. If Caracappa can consistently get the fight to the ground, he will likely control the bout and grind out a decision or submission. However, if Brown can defend the takedowns and keep the fight standing, his superior striking could lead him to a knockout or dominant decision victory.

Ultimately, this fight will test each fighter’s ability to impose their game plan—Caracappa’s relentless wrestling or Brown’s precise striking.

Gunner Spain vs Andrew Stock

Gunner Spain

Gunner Spain is primarily a grappler, known for his strong wrestling background and relentless pursuit of takedowns. He has a pressure-heavy style, aiming to control his opponents on the ground and work toward submissions or maintain dominant positions. Spain’s fighting strategy revolves around using his wrestling to neutralize his opponent’s offense.

Spain’s greatest asset is his wrestling ability. He excels at closing the distance, securing takedowns, and imposing his top game. Once the fight is on the mat, he’s excellent at maintaining control and landing ground-and-pound to score points or soften his opponents up for submission attempts. His cardio is another strength, as his relentless grappling style requires him to maintain a high pace throughout the fight. Spain is also highly disciplined in following his game plan, rarely deviating from his core strengths.

Spain’s striking is not as refined as his grappling. He typically uses his striking to set up takedowns, and if he’s forced into a prolonged stand-up battle, he could be at a disadvantage against a more skilled striker like Stock. Spain’s game can also become predictable, and if his opponent has strong takedown defense, his offensive options become limited.

Andrew Stock

Andrew Stock is a well-rounded fighter with a slight edge in striking. He has a background in Muay Thai and kickboxing, giving him a strong stand-up game where he excels in controlling distance and landing powerful combinations. Stock is comfortable on his feet and uses movement and angles to frustrate opponents looking to close the distance.

Stock’s striking is his biggest weapon. His ability to mix up punches, kicks, and elbows allows him to keep his opponents guessing. He’s particularly dangerous in stand-up exchanges, where his technical ability and knockout power give him an edge over less polished strikers. Stock’s takedown defense has improved, allowing him to fend off grappling-heavy opponents. His cardio and ability to maintain a fast pace make him a tough opponent to wear down.

While Stock has decent takedown defense, if he gets taken down by a strong wrestler like Spain, he could struggle to get back to his feet. His grappling is not as strong as his striking, and if he’s forced to defend on the ground for long periods, his energy and ability to strike effectively could be diminished. Stock’s key weakness lies in being controlled by a high-level grappler who can keep him on the defensive.

Analysis

This fight is another classic example of grappler vs. striker, with both Spain and Stock possessing clear paths to victory based on their strengths.

For Gunner Spain: The game plan will revolve around getting the fight to the ground. Spain’s goal will be to avoid extended striking exchanges and look for opportunities to secure takedowns early. If he can get Stock to the mat, Spain will likely dominate the fight with his ground control, using top pressure and ground-and-pound to wear Stock down. His relentless grappling could force Stock into defensive positions where he’s unable to mount much offense.

For Andrew Stock: Stock’s key to victory will be to keep the fight standing. He will want to use his footwork and striking to stay at range, avoiding Spain’s takedown attempts. Stock’s ability to use angles and counterstrikes will be critical in keeping Spain from closing the distance. If Stock can defend the takedowns and keep the fight on the feet, he’ll have a clear advantage in the striking department and could either outpoint Spain or score a knockout.

Key to Victory

Spain needs to turn the fight into a grappling contest. His wrestling and ground control will be his biggest assets, and if he can control Stock on the mat, he’ll have a path to either grind out a decision or finish the fight with ground-and-pound or a submission.

Stock must prevent Spain from dictating the terms of the fight with his wrestling. His success will depend on his takedown defense and ability to keep the fight at range, where his striking will allow him to punish Spain. If Stock can stuff the takedowns and land clean shots, he could finish the fight or win on points.

Prediction

The outcome of this fight largely depends on where the action takes place. If Gunner Spain can consistently secure takedowns, he will likely control the fight and earn a decision or ground-based finish. However, if Andrew Stock can defend the takedowns and keep the fight standing, his striking advantage gives him a strong chance to either outstrike Spain or land a fight-ending blow.

This fight will test Spain’s ability to impose his grappling against Stock’s takedown defense and striking skills.

Jimmy Drago vs Alonzo Turner

Jimmy Drago

Drago is known for his aggressive striking and high-volume offense. With a background in kickboxing and Muay Thai, he excels in stand-up exchanges and is always looking to pressure his opponent with combinations and powerful strikes. Drago typically fights at a fast pace, aiming to overwhelm his opponents early.

Drago’s biggest strength is his striking versatility. He’s comfortable with both punches and kicks, using his range effectively to maintain distance or land power shots. His aggression can be overwhelming, and he’s known for his knockout power, particularly in the early rounds. Drago also has solid takedown defense, which allows him to keep the fight standing where he excels.

While Drago’s stand-up game is strong, his grappling and submission defense have been areas of vulnerability. He can struggle when the fight is taken to the ground, especially against high-level wrestlers or grapplers who can neutralize his striking. His cardio, while decent, can fade if forced to grapple or in long, grinding fights.

Alonzo Turner

Turner is a well-rounded fighter with a background in wrestling and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. He prefers to grapple, using his wrestling to take opponents down and control them on the mat. Turner is known for his ability to smother opponents with ground control and work toward submissions, while also having a serviceable striking game to set up his grappling exchanges.

Turner’s greatest asset is his grappling. His wrestling is strong, allowing him to dictate where the fight takes place. Once on the ground, Turner is adept at controlling opponents and hunting for submissions. His grappling transitions are smooth, and he’s capable of finishing fights with chokes or joint locks. His ability to maintain control and wear down opponents on the mat is a key part of his strategy.

Turner’s striking is not as refined as Drago’s. He tends to use his stand-up more as a means to close the distance and initiate takedowns rather than to engage in extended exchanges. If Turner can’t secure takedowns, he may struggle against a striker of Drago’s caliber. Additionally, his cardio could be tested if he’s forced to deal with Drago’s high pace for an extended period without securing takedowns.

Analysis

This fight is shaping up to be a classic striker vs. grappler contest, with both fighters having clear paths to victory.

immy Drago: The key to victory will be keeping the fight standing. Drago’s striking is far superior to Turner’s, and he’ll want to avoid the grappling exchanges at all costs. His strategy will likely focus on using his footwork to stay out of Turner’s range, defending takedown attempts, and landing heavy strikes to keep Turner on the defensive. If Drago can maintain distance and control the pace of the fight, he has a strong chance to secure a knockout or wear Turner down with consistent striking.

For Alonzo Turner: Turner’s path to victory lies in his ability to take the fight to the ground. He’ll need to close the distance quickly, secure takedowns, and impose his grappling on Drago. If Turner can get Drago to the mat, he’ll be able to neutralize Drago’s striking and either work for ground-and-pound or look for submission opportunities. Turner will want to avoid prolonged exchanges on the feet and turn the fight into a grappling-heavy contest as soon as possible.

Key to Victory

Drago needs to use his takedown defense and striking to control the range and pace of the fight. If he can keep Turner at bay and punish him with strikes, Drago could secure a knockout or outpoint Turner to a decision victory.

Turner must get the fight to the ground as quickly as possible. His success will depend on his ability to secure takedowns and keep Drago on the mat, where his grappling advantage will give him the upper hand. A submission or dominant ground control could lead Turner to victory.

Prediction

The fight will largely be determined by who can impose their style. If Jimmy Drago can defend the takedowns and keep the fight standing, his striking advantage could overwhelm Turner, potentially leading to a knockout. However, if Alonzo Turner is able to secure takedowns and keep the fight on the mat, his grappling and top control could lead to either a submission or a decision victory. The fight is likely to be decided by how well Turner can handle Drago’s striking and whether Drago can stay off his back.

It’s a battle of Drago’s striking vs. Turner’s grappling, making this an exciting and unpredictable matchup.

Sebastian Ruiz vs Ricky Bandejas

Ruiz is primarily a pressure-based striker, known for his aggressive approach and high-output offense. He likes to push the pace early and often, keeping his opponents on the back foot. Ruiz mixes up his attacks well, utilizing both punches and kicks in a fluid, aggressive striking style.

Ruiz’s biggest strength is his ability to maintain a high pace while constantly applying pressure. He’s a volume striker, capable of overwhelming opponents with a barrage of combinations. His cardio allows him to sustain this pace throughout the fight, and his durability makes him hard to finish. Ruiz also has decent takedown defense, which allows him to keep the fight standing and focus on his striking.

While Ruiz is dangerous in striking exchanges, his ground game is less developed. He can struggle when taken down and forced to defend against skilled grapplers or wrestlers. Additionally, his aggressive style sometimes leaves him open to counterattacks, particularly if he overextends or becomes predictable in his offensive patterns.

Ricky Bandejas

Bandejas is a well-rounded fighter with a striking-heavy approach, but he also has solid grappling skills. Known for his sharp counter-striking and movement, Bandejas is a technical fighter who excels at picking his shots and creating opportunities for big moments in the fight. He has knockout power and is a disciplined, patient fighter.

Bandejas’ striking precision is his most dangerous weapon. He’s known for his ability to capitalize on openings with well-timed punches and kicks, often catching opponents with clean counters. Bandejas is also defensively sound, using footwork and head movement to avoid damage. His grappling, while not his primary focus, is competent enough to handle most situations, making him a well-rounded opponent who can adjust his strategy depending on how the fight unfolds.

Bandejas has been known to struggle against fighters who can apply relentless pressure, similar to Ruiz’s style. If forced to fight off his back foot for too long, he may have difficulty getting his rhythm and timing in place. Additionally, while Bandejas has a strong all-around game, he’s been susceptible to getting taken down and controlled by high-level grapplers in the past.

Analysis

This fight will likely be decided by whether Ruiz can successfully impose his relentless pressure and volume striking, or if Bandejas can effectively counter and capitalize on openings created by Ruiz’s aggressive style.

For Sebastian Ruiz: The key to victory will be his ability to keep the pressure on Bandejas and avoid letting him dictate the pace. Ruiz will want to stay in Bandejas’ face, throwing combinations and forcing Bandejas to retreat and defend. If Ruiz can avoid getting countered by Bandejas’ sharp striking and maintain control of the fight with his volume, he could wear Bandejas down and possibly secure a finish or a decision win.

For Ricky Bandejas: Bandejas will need to stay patient and take advantage of Ruiz’s aggressive style by landing well-timed counters. Bandejas should focus on using his movement and footwork to avoid being trapped against the cage and look for opportunities to land clean, powerful shots when Ruiz overcommits. If Bandejas can hurt Ruiz with a counterstrike or disrupt his rhythm with leg kicks and precise jabs, he could either score a knockout or outpoint Ruiz over the course of the fight. Bandejas also has the option to mix in some grappling if the stand-up exchanges aren’t going his way.

Key to Victory

Ruiz needs to overwhelm Bandejas with pressure and volume while being cautious of Bandejas’ counterstriking abilities. If Ruiz can keep Bandejas on the defensive and avoid significant damage from counters, his pace could be too much for Bandejas to handle.

Bandejas must use his technical striking and countering skills to exploit Ruiz’s aggression. If he can stay composed, use his defensive movement, and pick his shots, he has a strong chance of landing a fight-altering blow or winning via a calculated decision.

Prediction

The outcome of this fight hinges on whether Sebastian Ruiz can impose his aggressive style without getting caught by Ricky Bandejas’s precision striking. If Bandejas can weather the storm and land clean counters, his technical advantage may lead to a knockout or decision victory. However, if Ruiz can maintain his pressure and avoid Bandejas’ counters, his relentless pace could be enough to overwhelm Bandejas and secure a win on the scorecards or through attrition.

Both fighters are capable of winning this bout, and the result may come down to whether Ruiz’s pressure can disrupt Bandejas’ timing, or if Bandejas can turn Ruiz’s aggression against him with calculated counters.

Steve Dee