Lightweight, Yadier DelValle (7-0) Vs. Antonio Monteiro (17-4-1)
Notable Notes
- Both are BJJ black belts.
- Monteiro trains out of the predominant gym in Nova Uniao.
- DelValle has never lost as a pro and amateur (11-0 combined).
- Monteiro has a win over current UFC fighter, Melquizael Costa.
- DelValle has a win over CS alum, Michael Aswell.
- Monteiro is a former Shooto featherweight champion.
- Monteiro has fought at 155, 145, 170, and a few catchweights.
Yadier DelValle
Pros
- Excellent Thai clinch
- Solid ground and pound
- Heavy kicks
- Slick jiu-jitsu
- Submission threat
- Does well in burst
- Volume striker
- Strong top position/glue-like
Cons
- Slows as the fight goes
- TDD needs work
- Sits in the pocket too long
- Head sits on the centerline
Antonio Monteiro
Pros
- Submission threat
- Active ground and pound
- Good leg kicks
- Dangerous in the pocket
- Good jiu-jitsu
- Gets better as the fight goes
- Dangerous in exchanges
- Mixes up striking patterns
- Tough/Durable
Cons
- Wild striking at times
- Can be overzealous when coming forward
- Easily hit
- TDD needs some work
- Lacks grappling control
Prediction: I looked into DelValle not long ago and my evaluation was that he has potential but still a lot of room for growth. I’m surprised to see him on this season of DWCS as I think it’s too early for him. He’s fighting against a seasoned vet who has been in the sport for almost a decade.
On the feet I favor Monteiro. Both guys are flawed in their striking defense. The difference is I think Monteiro likes it. Monteiro has a controlled chaos style. He throws weirdly but at the same time, he attacks from everywhere and attacks everywhere. DelValle does well in bursts and is good on the inside but that’s also where Monteiro can do damage.
I feel good about saying DelValle doesn’t have the durability of Monteiro on the feet. On the mat, both guys are jiu-jitsu black belts. I have DelValle as the better grappler but I don’t see him out-grappling Monteiro because he’s crafty as well. DelValle has better control and that’s an area where Monteiro can struggle. What I think that comes into play is that this will be a high-paced fight and DelValle will slow whereas Monteiro will get stronger. I’m picking Monteiro because he’s the better striker, more aggressive, and won’t go away. I have Monteiro by third-round TKO and I’m 65% confident.
