Middleweight: Joe Pyfer vs. Marc-André Barriault
Fight Analysis:
Joe Pyfer halted his three-fight finishing streak in the UFC by Jack Hermansson at UFC Vegas 86. Hermansson’s ability to withstand Pyfer’s early onslaught and secure a unanimous decision victory demonstrated Pyfer’s vulnerability in longer fights. Pyfer, known for his knockout power, particularly in the early rounds, will be looking to rebound against Marc-André Barriault.
Marc-André Barriault, a durable and gritty fighter, had his two-fight winning streak snapped by Chris Curtis via split decision at UFC 297. However, he tends to start slowly, which could be detrimental against a fast starter like Pyfer.
Reason for Prediction:
Pyfer’s power and aggressiveness in the early rounds give him a significant edge. Barriault’s tendency to start slowly plays into Pyfer’s strength, making an early knockout likely.
Official Prediction: Joe Pyfer via first-round knockout.
Featherweight: Cub Swanson vs. Andre Fili
Fight Analysis:
Cub Swanson, a UFC Hall of Famer, is coming off a controversial decision victory over Hakeem Dawoodu at UFC Vegas 251, a fight many felt Swanson did not deserve to win. At 40 years old, Swanson’s age and wear from a long career have shown in his recent performances.
On the other hand, Andre Fili is coming off a first-round knockout loss to Dan Ige at UFC Vegas 86. Despite the setback, Fili is a dangerous striker who can finish fights quickly.
Reason for Prediction:
Swanson’s age and recent performances suggest a decline in his ability to compete at the highest level. Fili’s striking power and younger age make him the favorite for securing a quick finish.
Official Prediction: Fili via first-round knockout.
Featherweight: Charles Jourdain vs. Jean Silva
Fight Analysis:
Charles Jourdain had his two-fight winning streak snapped by Sean Woodson at UFC 297 via split decision. Known for his striking and high pace, Jourdain is always in exciting fights.
Jean Silva, coming off a knockout victory against Westin Wilson in his UFC debut at UFC Vegas 84, is a dangerous striker with knockout power. Silva will look to continue his momentum against Jourdain.
Reason for Prediction:
Jourdain’s experience and consistent performance in the UFC give him a slight edge. His ability to manage the pace of the fight and his striking volume make him a favorite to win by decision.
Official Prediction: Jourdain via decision.
Bantamweight: Payton Talbott vs. Yanis Ghemmouri
Fight Analysis:
Yanis Ghemmouri lost his promotional debut to William Gomis at UFC Paris 2023 via third-round TKO. Ghemmouri showed potential but struggled against the high-level competition.
Payton Talbott, undefeated and 2-0 in the UFC with both wins by finish, is coming off a second-round knockout victory over Cameron Saaiman at UFC Vegas 89. Talbott has demonstrated powerful striking and finishing ability.
Reason for Prediction:
Talbott’s undefeated record and finishing ability make him a strong favorite. Ghemmouri’s struggles in his UFC debut suggest he may not be ready for a fighter of Talbott’s caliber.
Official Prediction: Talbott via second-round knockout.
