MMA Preview – Chad Mendes vs Alexander Volkanovski at UFC 232
AT A GLANCE
When is UFC 232? Sunday 30th December, 2018 – 01:00 (UK)
Where is UFC 232? The Forum, Inglewood, California
What channel is UFC 232 on? BT Sport 2
Where can I stream UFC 232? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT website
Are tickets still available for UFC 232? http://uk.ufc.com/event-ticket...
THE STATISTICS
THE LOWDOWN
A huge featherweight fight kicks off the main card between the veteran Chad Mendes and the red-hot prospect Alexander Volkanovski. Volkanovski is tearing it up with a 16-fight winning streak and has passed the UFC test with flying colours so far with five wins including an exceptional unanimous decision in his last outing over Darren Elkins, snapping his own six-fight winning streak.
After serving a ban for testing positive for a growth hormone, Mendes returned to action in July this year and it was like he had never been away after starching Myles Jury in the first round. He will be calling upon his title fight experience against the likes of Jose Aldo and Conor McGregor to potentially earn another shot at the new king of the division – Max Holloway.
THE PREDICTION
If Mendes continues to perform like his old self, Volkanovski is going to be in trouble but Mendes cannot underestimate the Aussie as he has hardly put a foot wrong so far, mixing in his powerful striking with takedowns and grappling – very much like how Mendes earned his success in the division.
Expect a very well-rounded display from both men with Volkanovski matching Mendes in every department. If a knockout doesn’t occur, the fight will likely go to a close decision. Mendes’ experience may help him edge out a decision but despite being the underdog, Volkanovski has everything to cause the upset whether that be a knockout of a decision for himself.
Winner: Mendes via Decision
Striking and grappling stats sourced via FightMetric
