Preview: UFC 301 Prelims

Lightweights

Ismael Bonfim (19-4, 1-1 UFC) vs. Vinc Pichel (14-3, 7-3 UFC)

ODDS: Bonfim (-535), Pichel (+400)

A late scratch from the UFC’s visit to Sao Paulo last November, it’s nice to see the promotion rebook an interesting matchup. Bonfim impressed in his UFC debut early last year. Known as the more technically sound but less dynamic of the Bonfim brothers, he still managed to brutally knock out Terrance McKinney with a highlight-reel flying knee. That quickly led to some high hopes for Bonfim, though they were quickly dashed in his most recent fight last July. A one-sided loss to Benoit St. Denis looks much better in retrospect, but Bonfim had little answer for the Frenchman’s all-out aggression before getting tapped in the first round. Bonfim looks for a rebound here against Pichel, who’s put together an underrated UFC career that’s mostly been defined by injuries. “From Hell” has been on the UFC roster for nearly 12 years, but this marks only his 11th trip to the Octagon. The good news is that Pichel has a game that was built to age well. Never dynamic or athletically explosive at his peak, Pichel’s impressively durable, extremely strong and consistently able to overpower opponents once he can get his hands on them. Pichel should have some opportunities to slow the fight down, but it’s unlikely he can replicate St. Denis’ success, as he simply doesn’t have the closing speed or aggression to take Bonfim completely out of his game. The Brazilian should be able to land a lot of offense when this isn’t a clinch-fest. The pick is Bonfim via decision.

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