Prochazka v Pereira main event preview & betting tips – UFC 295

UFC 295 is set to take place at the iconic Madison Square Garden in New York this weekend, featuring a headline bout between Jiri Prochazka and Alex Pereira. This highly anticipated light heavyweight title fight promises to be a clash of styles and strengths, with both fighters facing their own set of challenges on the road to gold.

Jiri Prochazka v Alex Pereira main event preview

Jiri Prochazka vs Alex Pereira

Jiri Prochazka (29-3-1) is a dynamic force in the octagon, reminiscent of a character from a martial arts cartoon. Having transitioned from street fighting to professional MMA in 2012 at just 20 years old, Prochazka’s journey led him to the UFC in 2020, where he eventually captured the light heavyweight championship in a gritty battle against Glover Teixeira. However, a shoulder injury forced him to relinquish the title, and now he makes his return to the cage.

Prochazka’s unorthodox style, coupled with a substantial layoff, makes him a challenging fighter to predict. Undoubtedly talented, the 31-year-old boasts an impressive undefeated streak in his last 14 MMA outings. In a fight that’s unlikely to hit the mat, Prochazka’s focus will be on defence and a more controlled approach, in contrast to the high-octane style he displayed against Teixeira.

Alex Pereira (8-2-0) steps into the 205-pound division for the second time in his career. After a contentious split-decision victory over Jan Błachowicz in his light heavyweight debut, the Brazilian has a chance to become a dual champion with a win in New York, following his stunning upset KO win over Israel Adesanya for the middleweight crown in 2022.

At 36 years old, Pereira’s extensive combat sports career, spanning boxing, kickboxing, and MMA, has taken its toll. Knocked out cold in a rematch with Adesanya, he may be susceptible to Prochazka’s power strikes. Pereira holds a technical edge with tighter defence, but the unconventional style of the Czech fighter could prove to be a wild card.

Jiri Prochazka v Alex Pereira fight predictions

This matchup is incredibly close, with top UFC bookmakers struggling to split the pair. Prochazka’s return from injury adds an element of uncertainty, while Pereira’s age and wear and tear may come into play. Nevertheless, after an initial feeling-out period, expect an exhilarating showdown.

Our inclination is to back the younger fighter, with the hope that Prochazka maintains composure and avoids unnecessary risks. His superior footwork could prove elusive to Pereira’s more predictable offensive approach.

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