UFC 220: Miocic vs. Ngannou (Preview & Predictions)

#4 Dan Ige vs. Julio Arce

Dan Ige looks to make an impact at UFC 220

Dan Ige is a decent MMA scrapper who loves to plant his legs and throw heat.

On the other hand, Julio Arce is much of the same, however, he does pay heed to the importance of distance in fights and uses his jab as both an offensive and defensive weapon from time to time. Nevertheless, Ige has a slight grappling edge in this matchup—something that will be more evident as the fight plays out.

While Ige could finish this one on the ground late in the fight, Arce is durable and has decent fight IQ. This fight may go the distance, with Ige edging it on the scorecards.

Prediction: Dan Ige def. Julio Arce via Decision

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#Preliminary Card (UFC Fight Pass)

#1 Enrique Barzola vs. Matt Bessette

Enrique Barzola has a good grappling foundation and his striking seems to be catching up with it as well.

While Bessette isn’t great at any individual area of MMA, he is composed and patient inside the cage. Expect Barzola to have a few problems early on with Bessette’s timing.

Nevertheless, Barzola is likely to out-strike his foe over the course of 2 rounds. In the third and final stanza, look for Barzola to take matters to the ground, and end the bout likely with a Rear-Naked Choke.

Prediction: Enrique Barzola def. Matt Bessette via Submission

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#2 Islam Makachev vs. Gleison Tibau

Islam Makachev is an excellent fighter who is slick in both his grappling as well as striking.

Makachev is criminally underrated and could break through with a big win over veteran competitor Gleison Tibau. Look for Makachev to out-strike Tibau; tagging the latter early and often.

While Makachev could very well push for the finish, he’s likely to stay wary of Tibau’s savvy grappling. In the end, the judges will score the bout for Makachev.

Prediction: Islam Makachev def. Gleison Tibau via Decision