Preview: UFC on ESPN 23 Prelims

Featherweights

NR | Kai Kamaka III (8-3, 1-1 UFC) vs. NR | T.J. Brown (14-8, 0-2 UFC)

ODDS: Kamaka (-155), Brown (+135)

Kamaka’s last bout opened some concern about the Hawaiian prospect going forward. He was signed on late notice in August, and the “Fighting Hawaiian” combined with fellow newcomer Tony Kelley to put on an absolute barnburner. Even beyond that, Kamaka looked like a well-put-together prospect who has shown some offensive versatility and the ability to hold his own just about anywhere. The only real concern was a lack of knockout power, an oddity given Kamaka’s sharp form and athletic frame. However, Kamaka’s sophomore effort saw him step in on short notice once again to get physically overwhelmed by Jonathan Pearce, raising some worry that his lack of size—along with that lack of finishing ability—could keep him from getting much done in deeper waters. That is also an issue here against Brown, who looks for his first win in his third UFC appearance. Brown’s UFC debut against Jordan Griffin was an extremely entertaining back-and-forth affair, in part due to Brown’s relentless pressure. However, his last bout surprisingly saw Danny Chavez throw sharp enough offense to keep Brown at bay. Brown’s typically aggressive approach may have some success against Kamaka, given his size advantage and willingness to keep marching forward. Still, Kamaka has shown enough wrestling in his prior fights that he should at least be able to turn things into a stalemate and prevent Brown from finding a finish, at which point the Hawaiian should be able to clearly win this fight on the feet. The pick is Kamaka via decision.

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