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Melquizael Costa vs Steve Garcia Prediction UFC Picks 12/9

Melquizael Costa vs Steve Garcia Prediction UFC Picks 12/9

© Jason da Silva-USA TODAY Sports

 

UFC Fight Night: Song vs. Gutierrez - Garcia vs. Costa

UFC Fight Night is set to captivate fans once again at UFC APEX in Las Vegas, NV, on December 9, 2023, offering an enticing lineup, including a high-stakes lightweight clash between two accomplished fighters—Steve Garcia representing Jackson-Wink MMA and Melquizael Costa from Chute Boxe.

 

Steve Garcia - Mean Machine

Steve "Mean Machine" Garcia, the seasoned American lightweight fighter, brings a wealth of experience to the octagon with a professional record of 14 wins and 5 losses. His arsenal includes an impressive tally of 11 (T)KO victories, showcasing his dynamic striking prowess. As a southpaw representing the renowned Jackson-Wink MMA, Garcia's approach is marked by a fluid and unpredictable stand-up game.

Recent Fight History:

  • Apr 8, 2023: Garcia faced Shayilan Nuerdanbieke at UFC 287: Pereira vs. Adesanya 2, securing a decisive KO/TKO victory in Round 2 at 0:36. This win underscored Garcia's ability to finish opponents with precision and power.
  • Oct 29, 2022: In a matchup against Chase Hooper at UFC Fight Night: Kattar vs. Allen, Garcia again demonstrated his striking prowess with a Round 1 KO/TKO victory at 1:32. The fight showcased his ability to dictate the pace early in the contest.
  • Jun 11, 2022: Garcia faced Maheshate at UFC 275: Teixeira vs. Procházka, experiencing a setback with a Round 1 KO/TKO loss at 1:14. Despite the loss, Garcia's resilience and previous victories speak to his ability to rebound from challenges.

Fighting Style and Strengths:

Garcia's fighting style revolves around his striking prowess, utilizing his southpaw stance to create angles and openings for powerful strikes. His knockout power, evident in numerous (T)KO victories, makes him a constant threat on his feet. Additionally, Garcia's experience in high-profile fights, such as those at Jackson-Wink MMA, adds a strategic and tactical dimension to his approach.

 

Melquizael Costa - Melk Cauthy

Melquizael "Melk Cauthy" Costa, the Brazilian lightweight fighter from Chute Boxe, presents an intriguing challenge for any opponent. With a professional record of 20 wins and 6 losses, Costa's journey in the MMA world reflects a blend of striking finesse and grappling proficiency.

Recent Fight History:

  • Jul 15, 2023: Costa faced Austin Lingo at UFC Fight Night: Holm vs. Bueno Silva, securing a hard-fought unanimous decision win in Round 3 at 5:00. This victory showcased Costa's ability to navigate through a three-round battle with skill and strategy.
  • Jan 21, 2023: In a matchup against Thiago Moises at UFC 283: Teixeira vs. Hill, Costa faced a submission loss in Round 2 at 4:05. While this loss highlighted a vulnerability, Costa's overall fight history demonstrates his capacity to learn and adapt.
  • Nov 18, 2022: Facing Junior Melo at LFA 147: Melo vs. Costa, Costa secured a convincing KO/TKO victory in Round 3 at 2:00. This win showcased Costa's striking abilities and his potential to finish fights with authority.

Fighting Style and Strengths:

Costa's fighting style is a dynamic fusion of striking and grappling. As a southpaw, he possesses a unique stance that adds an element of unpredictability to his stand-up game. Costa's submission victories demonstrate his proficiency on the ground, making him a well-rounded fighter capable of adapting to various situations.

 

Prediction:

As the eagerly anticipated bout between Steve Garcia and Melquizael Costa approaches, it's clear that Garcia's exceptional striking abilities and experience give him a strategic advantage. With a proven record of (T)KO victories and a dynamic stand-up game, Garcia is expected to control the pace and exploit Costa's vulnerabilities on the feet.

If Garcia effectively dictates the stand-up exchanges and avoids getting entangled in Costa's ground game, he is likely to secure a victory. Given his recent successes, including a convincing win over Chase Hooper, Garcia is the favored contender at UFC Fight Night: Song vs. Gutierrez.

 

Pick: Steve Garcia ML +200

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