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Now on to the predictions!
JJ Aldrich vs. Veronica Hardy
Aldrich, riding a two-fight win streak, has shown resilience and a well-rounded game. However, Manpreet favors Veronica Hardy due to her speed and ability to control the fight’s pace with her movement and striking. Prediction: Veronica Hardy by decision.
Jared Gooden vs. Kevin Jousset
Kevin Jay, from City Kickboxing, is expected to use his sharp jab and distance management to frustrate Gooden, who relies heavily on his knockout power. Prediction: Kevin Jousset by decision.
Charles Johnson vs. Jake Hadley
Hadley, despite a recent loss, is favored for his grappling and striking improvements. Johnson may have the striking edge, but Hadley’s grappling versatility should prevail. Prediction: Jake Hadley by decision.
Billy Goff vs. Trey Waters
Goff’s aggressive style and durability make him a threat to Waters’ more calculated approach. Manpreet predicts Goff’s pressure will be key to a potential upset. Prediction: Billy Goff by finish.
Tabatha Ricci vs. Teciaa Torres
Torres returns with solid takedown defense and speed, which could neutralize Ricci’s grappling-heavy strategy. Prediction: Teciaa Torres by decision.
Terence McKinney vs. Esteban Ribovics
McKinney’s explosive style makes for a dangerous fight, with a high likelihood of an early finish. Ribovics has his strengths, but McKinney’s power is the x-factor. Prediction: Terence McKinney by early finish.
Chase Hooper vs. Slava Borshchev
Hooper’s grappling could pose problems for Borshchev, but the latter’s striking and improved takedown defense might just edge it. Prediction: Slava Borshchev by decision.
Waldo Cortes-Acosta vs. Robelis Despaigne
Despaigne’s knockout power and imposing physical presence might be too much for Cortes-Acosta, who has yet to show he can handle such aggressive adversaries. Prediction: Robelis Despaigne by early knockout.
Alex Caceres vs. Sean Woodson
Woodson’s reach and disciplined striking are expected to control the fight against Caceres, who struggles against technically superior strikers. Prediction: Sean Woodson by decision.
Diego Ferreira vs. Mateusz Rebecki
Rebecki’s relentless pace and grappling acumen are likely to overwhelm Ferreira, despite the latter’s experience and power. Prediction: Mateusz Rebecki by decision.
Alonzo Menifield vs. Carlos Ulberg
Ulberg’s striking and distance control should help him manage Menifield’s power, leading to a potential decision victory. Prediction: Carlos Ulberg by decision.
Joaquin Buckley vs. Sultan Ruziboev
Buckley’s power and improving grappling make him a favorite in his hometown. Ruziboev’s unproven at this weight class adds an element of unpredictability. Prediction: Joaquin Buckley by knockout.
Derrick Lewis vs. Rodrigo Nascimento
Nascimento’s grappling and more versatile skill set give him the edge over Lewis, whose one-dimensional power might not be enough this time around. Prediction: Rodrigo Nascimento by submission.
Manpreet’s Picks for Each Fight
- Veronica Hardy
- Kevin Jousset
- Jake Hadley
- Billy Goff
- Tecia Torres-Pennington
- Terence McKinney
- Slava Borshchev
- Rebelis Despaigne
- Sean Woodson
- Mateusz Rebecki
- Carlos Ulberg
- Joaquin Buckley
- Rodrigo Nascimento
Manpreet provides a detailed analysis for each fight, highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the fighters, offering a clear insight into what to expect at UFC St. Louis.