MMA Preview – Jason Knight vs Makwan Amirkhani at UFC Fight Night 130
AT A GLANCE
When is UFC Fight Night 130? Sunday 27th May, 2018 - 16:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC Fight Night 130? Echo Arena, Liverpool, UK
What channel is UFC Fight Night 130 on? BT Sport 2
Where can I stream UFC Fight Night 130? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
Are tickets still available for UFC Fight Night 130? http://uk.ufc.com/event-ticket-info?utm_source=ufc&utm_medium=tab&utm_campaign=tickets
THE STATISTICS
THE LOWDOWN
Fan-favourite Jason Knight makes his first appearance on European soil and is desperate for a win after two losses in a row. These were at the hands of Ricardo Lamas and Gabriel Benitez who are two of the best fighters in the division so despite the losses, the experience will be valuable.
He takes on Makwan Amirkhani who makes the short trip from Ireland where he trains with the SBG team. He has looked very impressive in his four UFC fights even though his last fight was a loss - a tight decision against Arnold Allen who is also on the card. After more than a year off, he is also desperate for that win.
THE PREDICTION
Both these guys a very athletic, explosive and exciting fighters who are both exceptional grapplers, amassing 22 submissions between them.
Amirkhani seeks the submission through his wrestling where he relentlessly chases the takedown. The majority of Knight’s submissions, however, have come as the result of a knockdown which will be his first port of call against Amirkhani.
Knight’s style is reckless which although has earned him many fans, leaves him open to damage. The fight should start at a ferocious pace on the feet and Knight’s pressure is likely to force Amirkhani to shoot in for a takedown early.
Amirkhani’s takedowns will be key to stifling the aggression of Knight and grinding out a victory but it is hard to see Knight losing three in a row with the talent he possesses.
Winner: Knight via Decision
Striking and grappling stats sourced via FightMetric.
