This is an exciting lightweight showdown between two talented fighters, Benoît Saint-Denis and Kyle Prepolec, both with something to prove in the UFC.
Benoît Saint-Denis, the French fighter with a well-rounded game, brings his grappling and submission skills into this matchup, hoping to build on his recent knockout victory over Matt Frevola. Saint-Denis has been tested at the top level, but his resilience and submission game have allowed him to come out on top in several thrilling contests. He's looking to bounce back from his recent setbacks, including losses to top contenders like Dustin Poirier and Renato Moicano.
Kyle Prepolec, the Canadian striker, is known for his knockout power, having secured several head-kick KO finishes in his career. Despite some challenges in the UFC, Prepolec is a dangerous fighter with solid experience in multiple promotions. He’ll be looking to build on his recent momentum after knocking out Josh Henry and Gustavo Wurlitzer, aiming to make a statement at the highest level.
The fight is a classic clash of styles: Saint-Denis will likely look to close the distance, using his grappling and submissions to neutralize Prepolec's striking. On the other hand, Prepolec will rely on his knockout power and clean striking to keep the fight at range and avoid being taken down.
Benoît Saint-Denis – Last 5 Fights
1. Loss vs. Dustin Poirier – KO (Punches) (Mar 9, 2024 – UFC 299)
2. Win vs. Matt Frevola – KO (Head Kick) (Nov 11, 2023 – UFC 295)
3. Win vs. Thiago Moisés – TKO (Punches) (Sep 2, 2023 – UFC Fight Night: Gane vs. Spivac)
4. Win vs. Ismael Bonfim – Submission (Face Crank) (Jul 1, 2023 – UFC on ESPN: Strickland vs. Magomedov)
5. Loss vs. Renato Moicano – TKO (Doctor Stoppage) (Sep 28, 2024 – UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Saint Denis)
Kyle Prepolec – Last 5 Fights
1. Win vs. Gustavo Wurlitzer – TKO (Punches) (Jun 8, 2024 – BTC 24)
2. Win vs. Josh Henry – TKO (Head Kick & Punches) (Apr 23, 2023 – Prospect FC 16)
3. Win vs. Marco Antonio Elpidio – KO (Head Kick) (Oct 22, 2022 – Prospect FC 14)
4. Loss vs. Shane Campbell – Decision (Unanimous) (Mar 4, 2022 – Unified MMA 43)
5. Win vs. Michael Dufort – Decision (Split) (Nov 19, 2021 – Samourai MMA 1)
Prediction
Benoît Saint-Denis def. Kyle Prepolec via Submission (Round 2)