MMA Preview – Vicente Luque vs Bryan Barberena at UFC on ESPN 1
AT A GLANCE
When is UFC on ESPN 1? Monday 18th February, 2019 – 00:00 (UK)
Where is UFC on ESPN 1? Talking Stick Resort, Phoenix, Arizona
What channel is UFC on ESPN 1? BT Sport 2
Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 1? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT website
Are tickets still available for UFC on ESPN 1? http://uk.ufc.com/event-ticket-info?utm_source=ufc&utm_medium=tab&utm_campaign=tickets
THE STATISTICS
THE LOWDOWN
Two knockout artists head to Arizona to put on a show for the first UFC on ESPN event. Vicente Luque and Bryan Barberena have a combined 17 knockouts out of their 32 wins and both men are confident of adding to their tally.
Luque’s only loss in his last eight fights was to the currently ranked #9 welterweight Leon Edwards. He lost a decision but apart from that he has looked exceptional, finishing his last seven wins (four knockouts and three submissions) including big names such as Belal Muhammad, Niko Price and Chad Laprise.
The dad bod of Barberena is deceptive as he is very explosive and powerful. He is also a natural finisher but has had winning streaks interrupted by decision losses to Laprise, Colby Covington and Leon Edwards. He is coming off a brutal knockout over Jake Ellenberger and although the veteran’s chin had already gone before the fight, Barberena’s power has to be respected.
THE PREDICTION
Both men are going to look for the finish with the preferred option being a knockout. They obviously have the power so their defence will be crucial. The edge has to go to Luque however as he has proven wins over top competition and has better rounded skills to mix it up if Barberena starts to land.
Barberena is always capable of a finish but Luque has more in his locker and will likely to continue his rise up the welterweight ranks.
Winner: Luque via KO/TKO
Striking and grappling stats sourced via FightMetric
