Viacheslav Borshchev vs. James Llontop: UFC Vegas 96 Prelims Preview and Prediction2 months ago
Viacheslav Borshchev faces James Llontop in a lightweight showdown. With both fighters eager to showcase their skills, this bout is expected to deliver high-level action.

Viacheslav Borshchev

Age: 32

Record: 7-4-1

Recent Fights:

  • Loss to Chase Hooper (Submission, Brabo Choke)
  • Draw with Nazim Sadykhov
  • Win against Maheshate Hayisaer (TKO, Punches)
  • Loss to Mike Davis (Decision, Unanimous)
  • Loss to Marc Diakiese (Decision, Unanimous)
  • Win against Dakota Bush (KO, Punch to the Body)

James Llontop

Age: 25

Record: 14-3

Recent Fights:

  • Loss to Chris Padilla (Submission, Rear-Naked Choke)
  • Win against Malik Lewis (Decision, Unanimous)
  • Win against Orlanison Neris de Oliveira (TKO, Punches)
  • Win against Ranieri Yuri Zenidim Bueno (TKO, Punches)
  • Win against Dimitry Zebroski (Decision, Unanimous)
  • Win against Kevin Pastran (KO, Punches)

Fight Analysis

Viacheslav Borshchev is a striking specialist with a strong knockout power, as indicated by his 86% KO/TKO win rate. Borshchev’s fighting style is aggressive, with a focus on delivering powerful punches and finishing fights early. However, his recent performances have shown some vulnerabilities, including a submission loss and a few decision losses, which highlight potential weaknesses in his grappling and ability to handle extended bouts.

James Llontop, on the other hand, fights out of the welterweight division but is dropping to lightweight for this bout. Llontop has demonstrated a well-rounded game with a mix of striking and grappling. Although his knockout power is respectable, his primary strengths lie in his decision victories and his grappling skills. Llontop’s recent loss came via submission, which could be a concern if Borshchev is able to force the fight into grappling exchanges.

Borshchev will have a significant advantage in striking due to his power and precision. However, Llontop’s height and reach advantage (6’0" vs. 5’11") could help him keep Borshchev at a distance and potentially utilize his grappling if the fight goes to the ground.

Prediction

Viacheslav Borshchev’s striking prowess and finishing ability make him a formidable opponent, especially if he can avoid prolonged grappling exchanges. If he can use his power and aggression effectively, he has a strong chance of securing a knockout or TKO victory.

James Llontop will need to use his height and reach to keep Borshchev at bay and potentially look for opportunities to implement his grappling game. However, considering Borshchev’s knockout power and aggressive fighting style, Llontop may struggle to impose his game plan.

Viacheslav Borshchev wins via TKO. Borshchev’s striking power and aggression should be enough to overcome Llontop, especially if he can capitalize on any openings and avoid getting caught in grappling situations. Expect Borshchev to secure a finish, likely in the later rounds or early in the fight if he lands cleanly.