DWCS 2024 is in full swing now, and this year’s Contender Series has seen some well-deserved contracts awarded, a number of returning fighters, and some surprises. Last week, a rematch was booked for later in the season, as Nick Piccininni will face Jack Duffy for a second time in week 10.
What zaniness will ensure in episode four? Good question, but the best we can do is give our breakdown and predictions! This week, there’s a couple of standouts in Austin Bashi and Quillan Salkilld in action.
Welterweight, Igor Cavalcanti (9-0) Vs. Seok Hyun Ko (10-2)
Notable Notes
- Ko trains out of Team Stun Gun which is owned by former UFC fighter and South Korean legend Dong Hyun Kim.
- With an undefeated record, Cavalcanti has a 100% finish rate.
- Ko’s two losses come to RTU alum Han Seul Kim and former UFC fighter Sasha Palatnikov.
- Cavalcanti has never fought past the first round.
- Ko has gone the distance four times.
- Both were champions on their regional scene.
- Ko has lost twice by KO/TKO, and Cavalcanti has won seven times by KO/TKO.
Igor Cavalcanti
Pros
- Fast starter
- Heavy ground and pound
- Heavy hands
- Strong wrestling
- Good jiu-jitsu
Cons
- N/A
Seok Hyun Ko
Pros
- Good jab
- Good left hand
- Athletic
- Dangerous left kick
Cons
- Repetitive striking
- Questionable chin
- Lack of output
Prediction: When it comes to Cavalcanti there isn’t a lot to go off on because his tape is so limited. With the Brazilian regionals, it’s either easy access or none at all. With Cavalcanti, I was only able to find two fights. From those fights and the small clips, he looks promising. Nine fights and nine finishes all coming in the first round. That’s good and all but it leaves a lot of unanswered questions. Ko has fought better competition but lost both times he had a step up.
There is no evidence to prove either of these guys are going to work out. More so with Cavalcanti because his fights are basically non-existent. With Ko, it seems like he made a step forward but against poor competition. On the feet, I’d favor Ko because he has the better technique. Cavalcanti has a grappling background and he’s just slinging guys to the mat. Ko’s two losses are what’s throwing me off. Sasha Palatnikov and Han Seul Kim are two guys you shouldn’t lose to if you are going to make it to the next level. Cavalcanti just hasn’t been exposed yet and that’s what I’d siding with. I’ve got Cavalcanti by submission in round one but I’m just 20% confident.
