MMA Preview – Dominick Reyes vs Jan Blachowicz at UFC 253
DOMINICK REYES VS JAN BLACHOWICZ FACTS
When is UFC 253? Sunday 27th September, 2020 - 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC 253? Flash Forum, Fight Island, Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Where can I get tickets for UFC 253? No tickets are available as this event will take place without spectators
What channel is UFC 253 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC 253? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
DOMINICK REYES VS JAN BLACHOWICZ LOWDOWN
Jon Jones has vacated the light heavyweight title - step up Dominick Reyes and Jan Blachowicz.
Reyes’ last fight was his decision loss to Jones for the title and he gave an incredible account of himself against the greatest light heavyweight of all time and the scorecards were harsh on him. That was is first pro loss after 12 fights and few gave him a chance against Jones, but he proved he is championship calibre.
The 37 year-old, Blachowicz has been around for a hot minute and makes his 15th UFC appearance. His last loss was a knockout courtesy of Thiago Santos in 2019 which snapped a four-fight winning streak but he has responded with a glorious knockout over Luke Rockhold, a hard-fought split decision over Jacare Souza and is now coming off another glorious knockout, folding Corey Anderson in the first round to earn this title shot.
DOMINICK REYES VS JAN BLACHOWICZ PREDICTION
This will be the start of a new era in the light heavyweight division with veterans and up and comers all waiting in line for the next shot at the title. Blachowicz has more experience and Reyes has all the youth and confidence believing he beat Jones and should already be the champion.
Reyes is an explosive southpaw with a powerful straight left and monster kick with great takedown defence and Blachowicz is a very strong grappler with a switch stance and proven knockout power in both hands.
Despite Blachowicz jiu-jitsu skills, this fight is likely to play out on the feet. Reyes’ takedown defence is exceptional and Blachowicz has never been more confident on the feet with his recent knockouts.
Over the course of a five-found battle on the feet, Reyes will be favoured with his endurance and the timing of his striking making the difference. The damage from Reyes’ left hand and foot will build up but Blachowicz has his own power and will likely try and tie Reyes up the clinch when he can.
A knockout is very possible either way but also likely to be a gritty, hard-fought battle right up until the bell.
Prediction: Reyes via Decision
