UFC 287: Top of the Card
Main Event
Alex Pereira(7-1) vs Israel Adesanya (23-2)
- I'm guessing these are the 2 most technical strikers in the division at least until the emergence of Israel Nurmagomedov gets some steam. Pereira secured a shock takedown in the second round, but Adesanya dominated on the mat with almost 4 minutes of control time in round three alone. Izzy is best known for his buttery counter-striking but desperate times call for desperate measures. Even Adesanya, a man harboring an immense ego, will have to concede to a safer grappling-first gameplan to protect his interest. He did enjoy considerable success on the feet, rocking Pereira in the first before the bell saved Alex. Pereira had problems reading the step-in jab and so regularly ate his straight right. Adesanya was compromised in the later rounds too, from Pereira’s solid checks. If the former champ better masks his kicks, he will be better prepared to get through the championship rounds. All is irrelevant if Pereira lands another big left hook again. He brings pressure that can wear down on the deepest gas tank. Pereira’s natural one-shot power can't be written off – nor his exceptional skill in using his power. Still, it's difficult to back a fighter with such little MMA experience. The old adage of ‘styles make fights’ is a fair argument, but Adesanya’s grappling cannot be overlooked. Adesanya
CO-MAIN EVENT
- Gilbert Burns(21-5) vs Jorge Masvidal(35-16)
It has been over 3.5 years since Masvidal last won(Diaz) the octagon. Jorge has fallen from grace since being crowned the BMF by The Rock. Even after it all, he remains a crafty veteran with a bag of tricks on the feet. Gamebred works combos to the body and positions himself smartly in the octagon..sharp enough to counter Burns’ naked entries. Burns(21-5) remains a flawed fighter that has strengths to overcome his weaknesses everywhere except at the top of the chain. Violently powerful, Gilbert operates more as a grueling slugger than a technical maestro. Against Masvidal, it probably pays dividends. A major key for Burns’ will be in mixing in takedowns successfully. The Brazilian is a superb sub artist but sometimes struggles with take-downs – evidenced by his career 35% TD accuracy.
Burns Decision