Stopping the bleed? Easier said than done. Just ask Alex Perez.
He’s in a rough patch, no doubt. Part of Team Oyama, Perez is gunning to snap a career-low streak. He’s aiming to climb back up in the UFC’s flyweight ranks. This Saturday, he’s up against Matheus Nicolau. The venue? UFC Apex in Las Vegas. It’s been a tough few years for Perez, with three losses on his back. Last time he fought was a bit of a downer, losing to Muhammad Mokaev at UFC Fight Night 238. His last win feels like ages ago, stopping Jussier Formiga with a leg kick back in June 2020. That’s over 1,400 days, if you’re counting.
Nicolau, on the flip side, has been on a bit of a roll. Six wins out of his last seven fights. But he’s coming off a knockout loss to Brandon Royval this April. Before that, he was on a winning spree, taking down names left and right. Nicolau’s never known the sting of consecutive losses, though.
The Nicolau-Perez face-off? It’s just one piece of the puzzle at UFC on ESPN 55. There’s more drama where that came from.
Now, onto Ryan Spann. Talk about a rollercoaster. The Fortis MMA fighter’s had his ups and downs. He’s looking to bounce back after a couple of losses. He’s facing Bogdan Guskov in a light heavyweight clash that’s got everyone talking. Spann’s got power, but consistency? That’s the million-dollar question. Guskov’s no slouch either. Knockout power that’s hard to ignore. He’s fresh off a win against Zac Pauga. Spann’s at a crossroads. Can he deliver, or will Guskov rain on his parade?
Then there’s Karine Silva and Ariane Lipski. They’re eyeing the top 10 of the women’s flyweight division. Silva’s on a hot streak, eight wins, all finishes. She recently got her revenge against Maryna Moroz. Lipski’s turned her fortunes around too, stringing together three wins after a tough loss. They’re both on the brink. Who’ll jump ahead?
Lastly, let’s talk Jhonata Diniz. The UFC’s got high hopes for him. Undefeated and stepping into the Octagon with a record to maintain. He’s facing Austin Lane, an athlete with an NFL background. Lane’s had a mixed MMA journey but found his stride until a recent setback against Justin Tafa. Diniz versus Lane is more than a fight; it’s a test of potential.
So, there you have it. UFC on ESPN 55 is packed with stories, comebacks, and maybe a few surprises. Let’s see how it all unfolds.