Junior Tafa vs Rogerio de Lima Prediction UFC 298 Picks 2/17
- Lm Tipster
- Feb 17, 2024, 3:06:22 AM
© Handout Photo-USA TODAY Sports
Marcos Rogerio de Lima vs. Junior Tafa: UFC 298 Preview and Prediction
Prepare yourself for an electrifying heavyweight clash as Marcos Rogerio "Pezao" de Lima goes head-to-head with Junior "The Juggernaut" Tafa at UFC 298, set to light up the Honda Center in Anaheim, California, on February 17th. With both fighters hungry for victory, this bout promises intense action and excitement. Let's delve into their backgrounds, recent performances, and analyze their potential paths to victory!
Marcos Rogerio de Lima - Fighting Out of American Top Team
Overview:
- Height/Weight: 6' 1", 253 lbs
- Record: 21-10-1 (13 TKO, 4 SUB)
- Team: American Top Team
- Nickname: Pezao
- Stance: Orthodox
Strengths:
Marcos Rogerio de Lima, known as "Pezao," possesses a wealth of experience and a diverse skill set. With a significant number of victories via TKO, he showcases formidable striking power that poses a threat to any opponent. Additionally, his ground game is proficient, with several submission wins highlighting his versatility.
Weaknesses:
De Lima has experienced setbacks in his career, notably suffering quick defeats such as the recent loss to Derrick Lewis. To secure victory against Tafa, he must maintain composure and avoid getting caught in vulnerable positions.
Fight History Highlights:
De Lima's submission victory over Andrei Arlovski showcased his ability to finish high-profile opponents, while his rapid knockout of Ben Rothwell demonstrated his devastating striking power.
Path to Victory:
De Lima's strategy for victory may involve utilizing his experience to weather Tafa's early onslaught and look for opportunities to exploit his opponent's weaknesses. With a well-rounded skill set, De Lima can capitalize on openings and secure a decisive win.
Junior Tafa - Fighting Out of NTG Fight & Fitness
Overview:
- Height/Weight: 6' 3", 255 lbs
- Record: 5-1-0 (5 TKO)
- Team: NTG Fight & Fitness
- Nickname: The Juggernaut
- Stance: Orthodox
Strengths:
Junior "The Juggernaut" Tafa is a rising star in the heavyweight division known for his explosive knockout power. With all of his victories coming by way of TKO, Tafa poses a significant threat with his aggressive striking and relentless forward pressure.
Weaknesses:
Tafa's lone loss to Mohammed Usman showcased vulnerabilities, particularly in grappling exchanges. To emerge victorious against De Lima, Tafa must remain disciplined in his striking approach and avoid being drawn into extended grappling engagements.
Fight History Highlights:
Tafa's recent knockout wins over Parker Porter and Nicolas Djurdjevic highlighted his destructive power and potential to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Path to Victory:
Tafa's path to victory likely involves asserting his dominance early with aggressive striking, aiming to overwhelm De Lima with his power and force a stoppage. By imposing his will and capitalizing on openings, Tafa can dictate the pace of the fight and secure a statement victory..
Prediction
In this matchup, Junior Tafa holds the advantage with his explosive striking and knockout power. While Marcos Rogerio de Lima is a seasoned veteran, Tafa's ability to control the fight's tempo and capitalize on offensive opportunities could prove decisive in securing victory.
Tafa's path to victory involves utilizing his aggressive striking to keep De Lima on the back foot and potentially secure a knockout finish. With his relentless pressure and finishing instincts, Tafa has the tools to emerge victorious and make a statement in the heavyweight division.
Pick: Junior Tafa ML +175
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