Themba Gorimbo vs Ramiz Brahimaj Prediction UFC Picks 5/18
- Lm Tipster
- May 14, 2024, 7:04:27 AM
UFC Fight Night: Barboza vs. Murphy - Themba Gorimbo vs. Ramiz Brahimaj Preview and Prediction
On May 18, 2024, the UFC APEX in Las Vegas, NV, will host an electrifying welterweight clash between Themba Gorimbo and Ramiz Brahimaj at UFC Fight Night: Barboza vs. Murphy. This fight promises to be a thrilling contest between two submission specialists eager to climb the ranks. Here’s a closer look at both fighters and a prediction for the outcome.
Themba Gorimbo
- Height/Weight: 6' 1", 170 lbs
- Record: 12-4-0 (2 TKO, 6 SUB)
- Team: MMA Masters
- Nickname: The Answer
- Stance: Orthodox
Strengths:
Themba Gorimbo is known for his versatile ground game and submission skills. Training out of MMA Masters, Gorimbo has developed a well-rounded grappling arsenal that makes him a threat on the mat. His ability to transition smoothly and secure submissions has been a key factor in many of his victories.
Recent Performance:
Gorimbo is coming off a spectacular first-round knockout win over Pete Rodriguez in February 2024. This victory showcased his striking power and ability to finish fights early. Prior to that, he secured a unanimous decision win against Takashi Sato in May 2023, demonstrating his improved cardio and fight IQ. Despite a submission loss to AJ Fletcher in February 2023, Gorimbo has shown resilience and a continuous evolution in his skill set.
Ramiz Brahimaj
- Height/Weight: 5' 10", 170 lbs
- Record: 10-4-0 (0 TKO, 10 SUB)
- Team: Fortis MMA
- Stance: Orthodox
- Reach: 72"
Strengths:
Ramiz Brahimaj is a submission specialist with a perfect record of ten wins by submission. Training out of Fortis MMA, Brahimaj's grappling prowess is his primary weapon. His ability to secure submissions quickly makes him a formidable opponent on the ground.
Recent Performance:
Brahimaj’s recent fights have been a mix of ups and downs. He secured a first-round submission victory over Micheal Gillmore in February 2022, highlighting his dangerous ground game. However, he faced a tough unanimous decision loss to Court McGee in January 2022 and a third-round TKO loss to Max Griffin in November 2020. Despite these setbacks, Brahimaj remains a constant submission threat in the welterweight division.
Prediction:
This fight is expected to be a grappling showcase, with both fighters excelling in their submission skills. Gorimbo's height and reach advantage, combined with his striking improvements, could play a significant role in this bout.
Themba Gorimbo has the edge in versatility. While Brahimaj is a submission expert, Gorimbo has shown a more diverse skill set, including his ability to win fights by knockout or decision. His recent knockout victory over Rodriguez suggests he can end fights in multiple ways, making him a more unpredictable and well-rounded fighter.
Gorimbo's experience against high-level competition and his continuous improvement in striking make him a strong contender in this matchup. Additionally, his ability to fight off submissions and his superior reach will help him control the fight, both on the feet and on the ground.
Given Gorimbo's momentum, recent performances, and evolving skill set, he is well-positioned to secure a victory against Brahimaj. Expect Gorimbo to utilize his reach to keep Brahimaj at bay while mixing in his grappling to nullify Brahimaj's submission attempts. This strategic approach will likely lead to a decision victory for Gorimbo.
