Welterweight, Samandar Murodov (10-0) vs. Jonathan Piersma (9-2)
Samandar Murodov
Pros
- Active ground and pound
- Slick back take
- Submission threat
- Good wrestling
- Strong defensive grappling
- Scrambles well
Cons
- TDD needs some work
- Head movement lacks
Jonathan Piersma
Pros
- Submission threat
- Physically strong
- Methodical grappling
- Good ground and pound
- Heavy top position
- Utilizes trips well
Cons
- Stands squared
- Low volume
- Labored/stiff striking
Prediction: Murodov won a featured bout on Road to UFC two years ago and now he’s back with a US VISA. I’d imagine with a win he’s going to get a UFC contract.
Piersma is coming in as a big underdog but has fought very well recently. Both of these guys are primarily grapplers. If I had to give an advantage to someone on the feet it would be Murodov. Piersma just looks uncomfortable on the feet whereas Murodov can at least be a threat offensively.
I do see this playing out on the mat. I do believe Piersma can get takedowns but Murodov has string defensive wrestler and scrambles well. Piersma can be too passive on the mat but Murodov is going to be aggressive and aim for the finish. Being the more aggressive and bigger fighter I think Murodov will get an early submission win.
