UFC Fight Night ‘Hunt vs. Nelson’ Preview

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Bantamweights

Masanori Kanehara (23-11-5, 0-0 UFC) vs. Alex Caceres (10-6, 5-4 UFC)

The Matchup: This should be a fun matchup between two limited but highly entertaining fighters, as rising bantamweight Caceres looks to rebound from a tough loss to perennial bridesmaid Urijah Faber against the newly signed Kanehara. The Japanese fighter enters the UFC on a nice little run in the twilight of his career and boasts an exceptional amount of experience against top competition, while Caceres still has the potential to become a consistent top-10 bantamweight.

Caceres makes excellent use of his long frame. At range, he flicks out a consistent jab from his southpaw stance, slings sharp kicks at all levels and mixes in more unorthodox techniques such as spinning kicks and flying knees, all the while maintaining a punishing pace. Although he lacks much of an offensive wrestling game, his takedown defense is fairly competent, and he loves to create scrambles off failed shots. The transitional spaces, especially on the ground, are really where Caceres shines. Give him an opening, and he will find his opponent’s back almost instantaneously. Meanwhile, his guard is threatening to all but the most technically sound top players. In sum, Caceres’ skills and approach are unorthodox but highly dangerous.

Kanehara has been around for a long time and has fought a ton of high-level fighters, including Hatsu Hioki, Marlon Sandro, Chan Sung Jung and Norifumi Yamamoto. He has the well-rounded game to show for his time in the sport. His striking looks awkward -- he keeps his chin up and hands away from his body -- but boasts excellent timing, solid power and good variety and pace. Kanehara has also started to show more power late in his career, though he has always been hittable. In terms of ancillary skills, he is a competent if not outstanding wrestler and grappler.

Betting Odds: N/A

The Pick: Caceres should be the substantial favorite. The fighters who have given “Bruce Leeroy” fits have all been big, strong wrestle-grapplers, and that in no way describes Kanehara’s game. I expect Caceres to substantially outland Kanehara at range and dominate the scrambles for a unanimous decision.

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