Joel Alvarez (21-3)
At 31 years old, Alvarez has already made a name for himself with his submission-heavy game. With 17 submissions and 4 knockouts, he has proven to be a dangerous fighter who excels at controlling opponents on the ground. Alvarez is known for his aggressive submission hunting and his ability to quickly capitalize on mistakes. His only losses have come by knockout, indicating that his striking defense can be vulnerable. However, his dominant performances against tough opponents, like his recent submission win over Marc Diakiese, demonstrate his potential to contend with the best.
Alvarez’s strength lies in his ability to close the distance, secure takedowns, and immediately start working for submissions. He will need to avoid prolonged striking exchanges with Klose, where his opponent has the advantage in technique and power. If Alvarez can impose his grappling game, he will likely control the fight and look for a finish.
Last Five Fights:
* Win vs. Elves Brener – TKO (Knees and Punches) at UFC on ABC 7 (Aug 3, 2024)
* Win vs. Marc Diakiese – Submission (Brabo Choke) at UFC Fight Night 224 (Jul 22, 2023)
* Loss vs. Arman Tsarukyan – TKO (Punches) at UFC Fight Night 202 (Feb 26, 2022)
* Win vs. Thiago Moises – TKO (Elbows and Punches) at UFC Fight Night 197 (Nov 13, 2021)
* Win vs. Alexander Yakovlev – Submission (Armbar) at UFC 254 (Oct 24, 2020)
Drakkar Klose (15-2-1)
At 36, Klose is a seasoned fighter with a well-rounded game, though he has primarily relied on his striking and decision victories. With 6 knockouts and 9 decisions, Klose is known for his patient, methodical approach in the octagon, preferring to wear down opponents with volume and precision. His ability to avoid damage and control the pace of the fight has earned him a strong record, though he has shown vulnerability to power punchers, as seen in his knockout loss to Beneil Dariush. Klose's ability to defend against takedowns and keep the fight standing will be key to his success against Alvarez.
Klose’s best chance to win will be by controlling the distance and preventing Alvarez from securing takedowns. If he can avoid the ground game and force Alvarez into striking exchanges, Klose has the tools to outpoint him and take home a decision victory.
Last Five Fights:
* Win vs. Joaquim Silva – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC 301 (May 4, 2024)
* Win vs. Joe Solecki – KO (Slam) at UFC on ESPN 52 (Dec 2, 2023)
* Win vs. Rafa Garcia – Decision (Unanimous) at UFC 277 (Jul 30, 2022)
* Win vs. Brandon Jenkins – TKO (Punches) at UFC on ESPN 34 (Apr 16, 2022)
* Loss vs. Beneil Dariush – KO (Punch) at UFC 248 (Mar 7, 2020)
Prediction
This matchup is a clear stylistic contrast. Alvarez will look to close the distance, get the fight to the ground, and hunt for submissions. On the other hand, Klose will aim to maintain distance with his striking, using his experience to keep the fight on the feet. Alvarez’s grappling and submission skills should give him the edge if he can take Klose down, but Klose’s takedown defense and striking will be a challenge for the Spaniard.
Klose’s striking might be too much for Alvarez if he can keep the fight standing, but Alvarez has the tools to control the action if he can secure a takedown. Expect a tough, competitive fight, but Alvarez’s grappling is likely to make the difference.
Pick: Joel Alvarez by second-round submission.