UFC Noche poster
UFC NOCHE: GRASSO VS SHEVCHENKO ODDS, PREDICTION AND FIGHT PREVIEW
The UFC is poised to pay tribute to Mexican Independence Day with a spectacular event on September 11, 2023, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas. This highly anticipated occasion serves as a celebration of the rich heritage of Latin American combat sports icons.
The spotlight of the evening will be on the rematch for the UFC women’s flyweight title, featuring two elite fighters, Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko. To provide a comprehensive preview of this thrilling fight card, we will delve into each match, analyzing the key narratives and the fighters’ backgrounds.
Main Event: Alexa Grasso vs. Valentina Shevchenko
The main attraction of UFC Noche promises to be a monumental clash as Alexa Grasso and Valentina Shevchenko cross paths once again. Earlier this year, Grasso made waves in the MMA world by submitting Shevchenko to seize the flyweight title. Now, these two formidable fighters are set for a highly-anticipated rematch, with Grasso looking to defend her hard-earned belt and Shevchenko determined to reclaim her lost glory.
In their previous encounter, Grasso capitalized on Shevchenko’s spinning backkick attempt, swiftly seizing her back and forcing her to defend until securing the submission victory. This triumph extended Grasso’s remarkable 5-0 streak since transitioning to the 125-pound weight class, showcasing her opportunistic and well-prepared approach to the fight, and solidifying her status as a formidable champion.
Shevchenko, on the other hand, had been an indomitable force in the division since December 2018. Although she lost the opening round of their initial encounter, she dominated the second and third rounds and was cruising in the fourth before her shocking defeat. This loss marked her first in the UFC at flyweight, casting doubts on her invincibility in the division.
The rematch presents an opportunity to address lingering questions about the dynamics of their first encounter and observe how Grasso adapts to her role as the champion. It also provides Shevchenko with a chance to respond to her first loss in a considerable time and prove that she remains a formidable force. UFC fans can expect an electrifying showdown as these two extraordinary fighters collide once more.
Odds: Alexa Grasso (+140) vs. Valentina Shevchenko (-165)
Our Prediction: Undoubtedly, Valentina Shevchenko will enter the rematch significantly more prepared than her previous encounter. The “Bullet” showcased her prowess during certain moments of the fight, providing a foundation upon which to construct her new game plan. However, she must remain vigilant of Alexa Grasso’s formidable skill set. This impending clash promises to be a captivating spectacle, ultimately hinging on which fighter can execute their game plan with greater determination and precision. If Grasso can effectively deflect Shevchenko’s kicks and neutralize her strategies while applying relentless pressure as she did before, her chances of securing victory remain promising.
Other Main Card Matches
Kevin Holland vs. Jack Della Maddalena
Kevin Holland and Jack Della Maddalena are poised for a welterweight showdown. Fresh off a first-round submission victory over Michael Chiesa, Holland has amassed an impressive 4-1 record since transitioning to the 170-pound weight class. Della Maddalena, an Australian fighter, is also riding a wave of success and aims to extend his undefeated streak. Both fighters find themselves in the lower ranks of the Top 15, yet this bout has the potential to propel the victor into more competitive matchups.
Raul Rosas Jr. vs. Terrence Mitchell
Raul Rosas Jr. is determined to get back on track after enduring his first professional loss earlier this year. He faces the seasoned veteran Terrence Mitchell, who is also coming off a recent defeat. This contest will serve as a litmus test to determine whether Rosas Jr. can bounce back from his setback and validate his potential in the division.
Daniel Zellhuber vs. Christos Giagos
The lightweight clash between Daniel Zellhuber and Christos Giagos features fighters who delivered impressive performances in their last Octagon appearances. Zellhuber, a member of the Dana White’s Contender Series Class of ’21, rebounded from a debut loss with a convincing victory over Lando Vannata. Giagos, entering his last bout on a two-fight losing streak, secured a first-round knockout win in his previous outing. This bout offers Zellhuber an opportunity to prove himself against a seasoned opponent, while Giagos aims to build on his recent resurgence.
Fernando Padilla vs. Kyle Nelson
The main card kicks off with an exhilarating featherweight contest between Fernando Padilla and Kyle Nelson, both vying for their second consecutive victory. Padilla, who made his UFC debut earlier this year, impressed with a quick stoppage win. Nelson, after a brief slump, returned to the win column with a draw and a victory. This intriguing matchup showcases Padilla’s reach advantage against Nelson’s strength and density, promising an enthralling start to the main card.
Preliminary Card Matches
Loopy Godinez vs. Elise Reed
Strawweights Loopy Godinez and Elise Reed are set to face off in the final preliminary card bout. Godinez, riding a two-fight winning streak, has exhibited improvement in her striking to complement her grappling prowess. Reed, coming off a unanimous decision victory, relies on her kick-heavy striking and nimble footwork. This clash of styles guarantees an engaging battle, with both fighters eager to make their mark in the division.
Roman Kopylov vs. Josh Fremd
Middleweights Roman Kopylov and Josh Fremd will engage in a showdown of surging fighters. Kopylov, after enduring two initial losses in the UFC, has secured three consecutive stoppage victories. Fremd, on the other hand, submitted his last opponent and outperformed his prior adversary on short notice. This bout will determine which fighter continues their winning streak and inches closer to breaking into the upper echelon of the division.
Edgar Chairez vs. Daniel Lacerda
Lightweights Edgar Chairez and Daniel Lacerda will collide in a high-octane contest. Chairez, known for his tenacity, pushed his opponent to the limit in his previous UFC appearance. Lacerda, still in pursuit of his first UFC victory, aims to capitalize on this opportunity. Expect sparks to fly as these two fighters bring their all to the Octagon.
Tracy Cortez vs. Jasmine Jasudavicius
Flyweights Tracy Cortez and Jasmine Jasudavicius will meet in a battle of talented contenders. Cortez, boasting a flawless 4-0 record in the UFC, returns after a grappling-intensive victory. Jasudavicius, with two victories this year, relies on her ground game and agility. With the flyweight title on the line in the main event, both fighters are eager to present compelling cases for their next challenge, ensuring a competitive affair from start to finish.
Alex Reyes vs. Charlie Campbell
A late alteration to the lightweight bout introduces Alex Reyes, making his return to the UFC, against Dana White’s Contender Series alumnus Charlie Campbell. Reyes, the elder sibling of former light heavyweight contender Dominick Reyes, seeks redemption after a loss six years ago. Campbell, having rebounded with a first-round stoppage win, aims to secure his first UFC victory. This bout will determine the victor in this unpredictable showdown.
Josefine Knutsson vs. Marnic Mann
Strawweights Josefine Knutsson and Marnic Mann, both Contender Series alumni, will open the event. Knutsson, originally slated to face a different opponent, aims to build on her impressive performance in her UFC debut. Mann, who secured a victory over a respected opponent, seeks to continue her winning streak. This fight guarantees an exciting start to the night, with one fighter leaving Las Vegas with their maiden UFC win.
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