UFC Fight Night 25 Preview: The Prelims

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Featherweights
Robert Peralta (14-3, 0-0 UFC) vs. Mike Lullo (8-3, 0-1 UFC)

The Matchup: This can only be described as a showdown between two no-frills, honest pluggers at 145 pounds.

Lullo is looking to rebound from his three-round technical knockout loss to the undefeated Edson Barboza at UFC 123, where the Brazilian did a Tong Po impersonation via endless leg kicks en route to the stoppage. Peralta, a product of the California small-show circuit, rides a seven-bout winning streak into his UFC debut, fresh off a split decision win over reigning Dream featherweight champion Hiroyuki Takaya in Strikeforce.

Peralta is more aggressive on the feet and tends to press the action in an attempt to make something happen, but a couple factors stand out that might play key roles in the outcome of the bout. He tends to exhibit holes in his grappling game, not securing positions tightly, and has spotty balance in scrambles. Lullo should be able to apply his better ground fundamentals and wear down Peralta, especially in an extended ground fight, as neither seems likely to score a stoppage on the feet.

The Pick: Lullo by second-round submission.

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