MMA Preview – Matheus Nicolau vs Matt Schnell at UFC Orlando
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MATHEUS NICOLAU VS MATT SCHNELL FACTS
When is UFC on ESPN 42? Sunday 4th December, 2022 - 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC on ESPN 42? Amway Center, Orlando, Florida (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC on ESPN 42? Click here for the latest ticket information for UFC events
What channel is UFC on ESPN 42 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 42? 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!
MATHEUS NICOLAU VS MATT SCHNELL LOWDOWN
Matheus Nicolau (18-2-1) is sneaking his way up the stacked flyweight division. He has not made much noise, but he has looked superb in his three UFC outings which has extended his streak to five. He had a tough debut getting paired with Manel Kape (2021) and managed to convince two judges to get the nod. He then met Tim Elliott (2021) and David Dvorak (2022) earning more convincing unanimous decisions.
Contrastingly, Matt Schnell (16-6(1)) is making a lot of noise but struggling to make any dent in the rankings. He is 2-2(1) in his last five and is coming off two ‘Fight of the Night’ bonuses. He had a wild round with Brandon Royval back in May eventually getting submitted and is coming off an even more chaotic battle with Su Mudaerji in July. It is one of the best fights of the year and somehow wrapped up a triangle choke in the second round after being on the brink of getting knocked out.
MATHEUS NICOLAU VS MATT SCHNELL PREDICTION
The crazy comeback win has given Schnell some much-needed momentum, but he has been handed a very tough match-up here. He will bring a furious pace and is extremely dangerous when the fight gets messy.
He is rapid, possesses knockout power in his hands and is super slick on the ground. However, Nicolau is very technical and solid everywhere which does not suit Schnell. The Brazilian will not be lured into a brawl and he is also a black belt in Brazilian jiu-jitsu so if the fight goes to the floor, he will have the upper hand.
He is also solid on the feet with underrated power and footwork. He can also wrestle and we expect him to put it all together to grind out another decision. Considering the odds, Schnell may be worth a small punt but on paper, Nicolau should take this all day.
Prediction: Nicolau via Decision - CLICK HERE FOR PARIMATCH'S WELCOME OFFER (BET £5, GET £30 IN BONUSES!)
Value Bet: Schnell to win
