After an unforgettable event in Mexico City, we now turn our attention to the UFC Apex where we see the popular heavyweight, Jairzinho Rozenstruik step into the cage against the undefeated Shamil Gaziev.
Co-Main action will feature Western Sydney’s very own, Tyson Pedro who was last seen at UFC 293 in Sydney where he demolished Anton Turkalj in the first.
Australia’s Steve Erceg will face the challenge against number nine-ranked flyweight, Matt Schnell which will be the biggest test in his short UFC career.
Australian fans will love this card and my thoughts are down below.
The main event in this Sunday’s card is set to feature a heavyweight bout, and I can’t wait to see what the two have in store.
Traditionally, heavyweight fights have wrapped up in the first or second round, and I don’t see that changing.
Rozenstruik has won 12 of his last 13 fights by way of knockout and I’m taking the American Top Team representative to take this one out.
A flip-of-the-coin matchup will create a highlight reel regardless of the outcome, this should be a good one to watch.
Australia’s very own Tyson Pedro steps back into the cage for the first time this year and he’s taking on a 26-year-old Brazilian sensation by the name of Vitor Petrino.
Vitor is nothing less than an all-round superstar who can choke you out, knock you out or keep you miserable for 15 minutes to get a unanimous decision victory.
But the Brazilian native has never faced a fella like his opponent from Western Sydney.
People like Pedro don’t give up easily, he’ll lose a limb before giving up.
Looking at the 10 victories, he’s won five by way of knockout, five by submission and all 10 have been first-round finishes, so he’s all about efficiency.
Yes, I know, I know, what about Vitor being undefeated?
I’ve taken that into factor and this will be the most challenging bout that Petrino has had in his career to date.
With that being said, my value play will be on Tyson Pedro to win this fight in the very first round.
Yet another Aussie will be waiving our flag this Sunday with Steve Erceg stepping into the octagon against number 9 ranked Flyweight, Matt Schnell.
The number 12-ranked Erceg is looking to elevate his stock in the Flyweight division to get himself ever so closer to championship gold.
Erceg has not lost a bout since September 2017 and I don’t see that changing for the submission specialist this weekend.
Australia’s behind you Steve and so am I.