UFC Fight Night 29 Preview

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Bantamweights

T.J. Dillashaw (8-1, 4-1 UFC) vs. Raphael Assuncao (20-4, 4-1 UFC)

The Matchup: Like many of his Team Alpha Male counterparts, Dillashaw has flourished under the guidance of new coach Duane Ludwig; not that “The Ultimate Fighter 14” finalist was performing poorly before “Bang” joined the California-based camp. Since losing his Octagon debut to John Dodson at “The Ultimate Fighter 14” Finale, Dillashaw has reeled off four straight wins in dominant fashion.

A collegiate wrestler at Cal State Fullerton, Dillashaw has been making strides with his standup. While the 27-year-old has always had a solid right hand, he displayed the ability to string together a series of power punches in stopping Hugo Viana at UFC on Fox 7. He has also implemented fakes and feints into his arsenal, as evidenced by the fake low, high kick knockout authored against Issei Tamura at UFC 158. Dillashaw’s ability to continue to successfully blend his striking with his wrestling will determine how far he can go in the bantamweight division.

Assuncao will be a good measuring stick for the Californian. Like Dillashaw, the Ascension Mixed Martial Arts representative is on a four-fight streak, with his most significant victory during that time coming against Mike Easton at UFC on Fox 5. Assuncao’s four professional losses have all come in featherweight bouts at the hands of high-level opponents: Erik Koch, Diego Nunes, Urijah Faber and Jeff Curran. While Assuncao, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, would seem to have the tools to combat Dillashaw in grappling exchanges and scrambles, he must also be prepared to handle the American’s power on the feet. Assuncao got the best of Easton thanks to crisp counterpunching, but “The Hulk” did not make any adjustments over the course of the fight. The Brazilian cannot count on Dillashaw to do the same.

Assuncao will have to use a variety of kicks to control distance and be opportunistic in scrambles because he may find it difficult to initiate a takedown of his own, as Dillashaw has yet to be planted on the canvas in UFC competition. Assuncao’s takedown defense is solid, as well, but it figures to be tested by an opponent who lands more than four takedowns per contest.

The Pick: Assuncao is durable and well-rounded, but a rapid pace and constant pressure from Dillashaw will lead to enough offense for the Team Alpha Male standout to earn a decision.

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