Preview: UFC on ABC 4 ‘Rozenstruik vs. Almeida’

Welterweights

Ian Garry (11-0, 4-0 UFC) vs. #15 WW | Daniel Rodriguez (17-3, 7-2 UFC)

ODDS: Garry (-285), Rodriguez (+240)

Garry has made good thus far on his standing as one of the top prospects in the welterweight division, but here is where the tough tests start for the Irishman. Days shy of his 24th birthday upon making it to the UFC in 2021, Garry had clearly separated himself on the regional scene as someone ready for the step up. At 6-foot-3, “The Future” was able to navigate things handily on the feet against his opposition and backed it up with some strong grappling. Garry’s performances in the UFC thus far have not been flawless, as he is still attempting to build defense into his offense, leading him to nearly get knocked out by Jordan Williams and Kenan Song in two of his four UFC fights. Still, Garry has consistently fought back from danger and looked better every time out, showing some impressive proactivity in terms of trying to patch up holes in his game before they become a problem. The Kill Cliff Fight Club rep will likely break into the rankings if he can score his biggest win to date against Rodriguez, whose career stands in stark contrast to Garry’s.

“D-Rod” did not come into the UFC with much in terms of expectation or hype, only getting the late-notice call when Tim Means needed an opponent early in 2020. Rodriguez scored a surprising club-and-sub win there and has been the picture of consistency since. He does not vary things up much beyond a powerful boxing game, but he is accurate enough to carry that power over three rounds and separate himself from most opponents. That lack of dynamism finally hit a clear ceiling against Neil Magny in November, but Rodriguez looks fundamentally sound enough to remain a relevant concern for years to come. Rodriguez is steady enough to get the nod here, though Garry has shown enough in terms of smarts that a win for the uber-prospect would not be a shock. If Garry approaches this fight much like his recent ones, Rodriguez has enough size and power to exploit his spotty defense. However, the Irishman could make a lot of hay if he busts out his wrestling and grappling for what would essentially be the first time in his UFC career. This could be another huge proving moment for Garry, but the pick is Rodriguez via decision.

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Rozenstruik vs. Almeida
Smith vs. Walker
Garry vs. Rodriguez
Ulberg vs. Potieria
Morono vs. Means
The Prelims