MMA Preview – Matheus Nicolau vs Alex Perez at UFC on ESPN 55
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MATHEUS NICOLAU VS ALEX PEREZ FACTS
When is UFC on ESPN 55? Sunday 31st March, 2024 - 01:00 (UK)
Where is UFC on ESPN 55? UFC Apex, Enterprise, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC on ESPN 55? Click here to buy tickets for UFC on ESPN
What channel is UFC on ESPN 55 on? TNT Sports 1
Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 55? 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!
MATHEUS NICOLAU VS ALEX PEREZ LOWDOWN
Matheus Nicolau (19-3-1) somehow headlines a card coming off a devastating loss. He swallowed a perfectly timed knee from Brandon Royval at UFC on ESPN 44 last year. That emphatically snapped a six-fight win streak to halt his momentum. He was looking to respond with a big win in a rematch with Manel Kape who unfortunately injured his rib.
Alex Perez (24-8) steps up to replace him seeking his first win in nearly four years. That was a brilliant TKO over Jussier Formiga (2020). However, he then got submitted by Deiveson Figueiredo (2020) and Alexandre Pantoja (2022) who both went on to win the title. He took another couple years out before returning against Muhammad Mokaev (2024) who inflicted his third loss in a row with a unanimous decision.
MATHEUS NICOLAU VS ALEX PEREZ PREDICTION
A loss for Nicolau will be a huge setback in his quest for a title shot. However, more is on the line for Perez who rose up to the top of the division, but another loss will leave him back on the prelims chasing a ranking.
Nicolau is the heavy favourite mainly due to Perez’s form. Taking the fight on short notice also plays into this and we would not be surprised if Perez misses weight. That said, he is still a talented and well-rounded fighter. He is worth a punt considering the odds especially as Nicolau’s chin has been compromised.
Perez has the wrestling and speed to give Nicolau problems, in particular his leg kicks. However, on paper, Nicolau should win the striking exchanges and secure the odd takedown. He is technically the better striker and is geared for five rounds. We expect him to win a decision, but this will be closer than people expect.
Prediction: Nicolau via Decision
Value bet: Perez to win
