Fight Preview
Ricky Simon and Mario Bautista will square off in a bantamweight bout at this weekend’s UFC Fight Night at APEX event, matching styles which may result in close quarters action for much of the bout. Simon features a high center of gravity and will likely use quick attacks from behind his back stance, employing quick attacks with quick punches to keep opponents at bay before forcing them into submission or commitment to the cage.
Bautista, on the other hand, is more of a well-rounded fighter, boasting strong grappling ability and standing his own on the ground. Additionally, he can take down opponents and control action in clinches; therefore it will likely come down to who can execute their wrestling game more efficiently to emerge victorious.
Bautista has steadily been moving up in his rankings and recently defeated Da’Mon Blackshear at his last performance. Although originally set to battle Cody Garbrandt in that fight, injury forced them off the card; now, however, Bautista gets another shot against a ranked opponent and hopes to extend his winning streak against Simon.
Simon suffered his most recent defeat via five-round TKO against Song Yadong, following five consecutive victories over Ray Borg, Gaetano Pirrello, Brian Kelleher, Raphael Assuncao, and Jack Shore. However, Song was too much for Simon to handle on foot.
Although outstruck by Song, Simon still managed to land some significant inside strikes that caused Song to back off of him and concede some ground. Simon is an effective striker but must improve his accuracy for this fight. Furthermore, Simon is an adept wrestler capable of throwing off opponents with well-timed takedowns.
Mario Bautista is a well-rounded bantamweight who has shown tremendous development over his years of fighting, both striking and grappling wise. Over the years he has made strides with both, becoming more comfortable striking as well as grappling.
This bout offers both fighters an exciting chance to show their skills, with Mario Bautista as an underdog facing Simon but possessing unique talents that give him a chance of victory and getting back on track after previous defeats. If he can finish quickly he could send out a strong statement that his place within the division remains secure.
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Ricky Simon vs Mario Bautista Fight Information
- Date: 01/13/2024
- Time: 07:35 PM ET
- Location: UFC APEX.
- How to Watch Simon vs Bautista: ESPN+
- Live Stream: BT Sport.com
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