MMA Preview – Fernando Padilla vs Luis Pajuelo at UFC ESPN 53
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FERNANDO PADILLO VS LUIS PAJUELO FACTS
When is UFC on ESPN 53? Sunday 24th March, 2024 - 00:00 (UK)
Where is UFC on ESPN 53? UFC Apex, Enterprise, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC on ESPN 53? Click here to buy tickets for UFC on ESPN
What channel is UFC on ESPN 53 on? TNT Sports 2
Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 53? TNT Sports subscribers can stream the fight online via the TNT Sports website and Discovery+
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!
FERNANDO PADILLO VS LUIS PAJUELO LOWDOWN
Fernando Padillo (15-5) heads to to the Apex to pick himself back up from getting his three-fight win streak snapped. He made his UFC debut last year and it could not have gone better knocking the the veteran Julian Erosa out in the first round. He then met Kyle Nelson as the favourite but lost a unanimous decision.
Now, he welcomes Luis Pajuelo (8-1) to the octagon who is coming off a perfect audition on the Contender Series back in August last year. He folded Robbie Ring with a knee to the body in the first round which extended his win streak five which includes four knockouts.
FERNANDO PADILLO VS LUIS PAJUELO PREDICTION
Padilla is a tall and lanky striker who will boast a seven-inch reach advantage. If he can manage the distance and get behind his jab, he can frustrate Pajuelo.
However, he does not fight to his strengths. Pajuelo is also a good striker and is more technical, so we expect him to be able to negate the reach advantage and pierce the defence.
We expect Padillo to try and walk Pajuelo down which will play into Pajuelo hands. The Peruvian has the technique to counter and greet the Mexican’s chin when he steps into range.
Padillo is dangerous, but we feel his defence will let him down here. He is very durable which should take him to the bell, but this is a good match-up for Pajuelo.
Prediction: Pajuelo via Decision
Value bet: Pajuelo to win
