Preview: UFC on ESPN 24 Prelims

Welterweights

NR | Carlston Lindsay Harris (15-4, 0-0 UFC) vs. NR | Christian Aguilera (14-7, 1-1 UFC)

ODDS: Harris (-150), Aguilera (+130)

With Harris’ debut, Guyana can now add itself to the list of countries that have had a fighter appear inside the UFC. Harris has certainly earned this shot, putting in a decade of work as a professional that includes wins over fellow UFC fighters Michel Pereira and Wellington Turman. Recent footage of “Mocambique” is mostly limited to highlights, but what is available shows a solid fighter with a long frame who is capable of holding his own and scoring a finish in any phase of the fight. Aguilera should provide a solid first test for Harris inside the Octagon, as the Californian is another battle-tested veteran. Aguilera announced his UFC arrival with a 59-second knockout of Anthony Ivy but got thrown in way over his head against Sean Brady in August and suffered for it. Still, Aguilera is solid everywhere and has a clear progression, throwing hands early and then going after his wrestling if he cannot find any success. That could work here, but the bet is that Harris’ athleticism can carry him, even if the lack of recent footage makes that a bit of a coinflip. The pick is Harris via decision.