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UFC Fight Night Predictions: Moicano vs. Saint Denis - Fight Preview: Victor Altamirano vs. Daniel Barez

The flyweight division at UFC Fight Night: Moicano vs. Saint Denis features an exciting matchup between Mexico’s Victor Altamirano and Spain’s Daniel Barez. Both fighters are looking to make a statement in the division, with Altamirano aiming to rebound from a close loss, while Barez seeks redemption after a submission defeat. This bout promises to be a high-paced, technical battle between two well-rounded fighters.

 

Betting Odds

Fighter	Odds
Victor Altamirano	-125
Daniel Barez	+105

Altamirano comes in as a slight favorite, with his versatility and UFC experience giving him an edge over Barez, who is still looking for his first win in the promotion. Both fighters are capable of finishing fights, but this matchup might be decided by who can impose their style more effectively across three rounds.

Fighter Backgrounds

Victor Altamirano

Victor Altamirano has compiled a professional record of 12-4, showcasing his well-rounded abilities with 2 knockouts and 4 submissions. Known for his durability and ability to adapt, Altamirano has gone the distance in several of his UFC bouts, including a split decision win over Omar Morales at UFC 286. Despite suffering back-to-back losses, he remains a tough competitor who excels in technical exchanges and grappling scrambles.

Training at Double Five Mid-Cities, Altamirano uses a switch stance, allowing him to adjust his striking depending on his opponent. His versatility and conditioning make him a fighter who grows stronger as the fight progresses, making him dangerous in the later rounds.

Daniel Barez

Daniel Barez is a powerful finisher with a record of 16-6, boasting 7 knockout wins and 6 submission victories. He is known for his aggressive style and ability to finish fights early, particularly with his striking. His recent loss to Jafel Filho via submission exposed some vulnerabilities in his ground game, but Barez remains a dangerous opponent with explosive knockout power.

Barez fights out of Entram Gym in Spain, where he has honed his aggressive striking and developed a submission game that complements his stand-up skills. However, he will need to be cautious of Altamirano’s grappling and conditioning as the fight wears on.

Fighting Styles and Strengths

Victor Altamirano

Altamirano’s style is built around versatility and endurance. His ability to switch stances and adjust his striking gives him the ability to keep opponents off balance. He is proficient in grappling exchanges, where his submission skills can come into play, but his ability to control the pace of a fight often leads to decisions in his favor. Altamirano’s conditioning is a key asset, and he tends to perform well in the later rounds when his opponents begin to tire.

Daniel Barez

Barez is an aggressive striker with knockout power in both hands. He prefers to press the action early and overwhelm his opponents with powerful punches and a relentless pace. While his submission game is solid, Barez’s greatest strength lies in his ability to finish fights standing. However, his aggressive style can leave him exposed to grappling exchanges, which Altamirano could exploit if the fight goes to the ground.

Recent Performances and Matchup Analysis

Victor Altamirano

Altamirano’s recent decision losses to Tim Elliott and Felipe dos Santos were closely contested, with both fights showcasing his resilience and ability to adapt to different opponents. His decision win over Vinicius Salvador highlighted his technical striking and ability to control the pace of a fight. Altamirano’s ability to mix up his striking and grappling will be key in neutralizing Barez’s aggressive approach.

Daniel Barez

Barez’s most recent fight ended in a submission loss to Jafel Filho, exposing some vulnerabilities in his ground defense. However, his knockout win over Paul Marquez Moreno and other striking finishes demonstrate his explosive power and ability to end fights quickly. If Barez can land his power shots early, he has a good chance of finishing the fight, but Altamirano’s durability could frustrate him as the fight progresses.

Keys to Victory

Victor Altamirano

• Control the Pace: Altamirano needs to manage the pace of the fight, using his footwork and striking to avoid Barez’s power punches. If he can drag the fight into the later rounds, his cardio and endurance will give him the advantage.
• Exploit Grappling Opportunities: Given Barez’s susceptibility to submissions, Altamirano should look for opportunities to take the fight to the ground, where he can control Barez and potentially secure a submission.
• Stay Patient: Altamirano should avoid getting into early firefights with Barez. By staying patient and technical, he can outpoint Barez over the course of the fight.

Daniel Barez

• Start Fast: Barez should press the action early and look for a quick finish. His best chance to win is by overwhelming Altamirano in the first round with his power punches.
• Defend Takedowns: Barez needs to be vigilant in defending Altamirano’s grappling attempts. Keeping the fight standing will be key to avoiding Altamirano’s submission game.
• Land Power Shots: Barez’s knockout power is his biggest asset. If he can land clean, powerful strikes early in the fight, he has a good chance of securing a knockout victory.

Prediction