UFC Fight Night 32 Preview

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Welterweights

Ryan LaFlare (8-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio (18-1, 0-0 UFC)

The Matchup: A native of La Plata, Argentina, Ponzinibbio was one of the most highly regarded cast members on Season 2 of “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” until a broken hand suffered in a semifinal decision victory over eventual tournament winner Leonardo Santos derailed his run.

During his stint on the reality show, Ponzinibbio earned $25,000 for the season’s best knockout and another $25,000 for best fight. “El Rasta” enters the Octagon with solid credentials: 18 victories in 19 professional appearances, with 16 of those triumphs coming by way of knockout, technical knockout or submission. His lone defeat came at the hands of “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 1” competitor Leonardo Mafra Texeira. Ten of his finishes have come inside of a round.

LaFlare, meanwhile, remained unbeaten as a professional with a three-round verdict over Ben Alloway in his promotional debut at UFC on Fuel TV 9. The former Ring of Combat welterweight champion went the distance for the first time in his career, as he relied on a steady diet of takedowns and top control to best his opponent. In addition to his wrestling, LaFlare defended a number of Alloway submission attempts on the mat while working diligently to pass guard.

Ponzinibbio favors an aggressive approach on the feet. He will press forward with violent power strikes, including his left hook and overhand right. LaFlare must work to avoid getting trapped with his back to the cage, because that is where the Argentine can unload a barrage. “La Rasta” also works kicks to the legs effectively, and his head kick has knockout potential.

The Team Tavares product tends to get a little wild with his strikes, a habit on which LaFlare can capitalize with quick level changes. On the mat, LaFlare must advance position with caution against a foe with a solid submission game.

The Pick: Ponzinibbio was arguably the uncrowned champion of “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 2,” and he will pick up where he left off against LaFlare, winning via TKO in round two.

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