Taylor Lapilus (20-4)
Taylor Lapilus, fighting out of MMA Factory, has built a well-rounded resume with a mix of knockouts, submissions, and decision victories. Known for his technical striking and strategic approach, Lapilus has 4 knockout wins and 6 submission victories in his career. In his most recent bout, Lapilus secured a unanimous decision win over Cody Stamann in June 2024. Lapilus thrives in front of his hometown fans and will look to put on a show in Paris.
Last 3 Fights
- Win: vs. Cody Stamann (Decision – Unanimous), UFC on ESPN 57, Jun 8, 2024 – 3 Rounds
- Loss: vs. Farid Basharat (Decision – Unanimous), UFC Fight Night 234, Jan 13, 2024 – 3 Rounds
- Win: vs. Caolan Loughran (Decision – Unanimous), UFC Fight Night 226, Sep 2, 2023 – 3 Rounds
Vince Morales (16-7)
Vince Morales, representing Syndicate MMA, is a dangerous bantamweight with knockout power and submission skills. Morales has 7 knockouts and 5 submission victories, making him a well-rounded threat inside the octagon. After a string of impressive performances in 2024, including a submission win over Hunter Azure, Morales aims to continue his momentum with a victory over Lapilus. Morales’ aggressive style and finishing ability make him a dangerous opponent in this matchup.
Last 3 Fights
- Win: vs. Hunter Azure (Submission – Peruvian Necktie), United Fight League 5, Aug 30, 2024 – 3 Rounds
- Win: vs. Luis Guerrero (Submission – Brabo Choke), Tuff-N-Uff 137, May 24, 2024 – 2 Rounds
- Win: vs. Yuki Motoya (Decision – Unanimous), Rizin 45, Dec 31, 2023 – 3 Rounds
Prediction
This bout will be a contest of styles, with Lapilus’ technical striking and fight IQ facing off against Morales’ aggression and finishing power. Lapilus will likely look to keep the fight at range and pick Morales apart with precise strikes, while Morales will aim to close the distance, apply pressure, and seek a finish either via knockout or submission. Given Lapilus’ experience and hometown advantage, he has a slight edge in this matchup, but Morales’ ability to end fights quickly cannot be underestimated.
Official Prediction: Taylor Lapilus via Decision.
