Preview: UFC 271 Prelims

Sign up for ESPN+ right here, and you can then stream UFC 271 live on your smart TV, computer, phone, tablet or streaming device via the ESPN app.

Bantamweights

NR | Ronnie Lawrence (7-1, 1-0 UFC) vs. NR | Leomana Martinez (9-2, 1-0 UFC)

ODDS: Lawrence (-305), Martinez (+240)

Lawrence was one of UFC President Dana White’s favorite prospects on the 2020 edition of the Contender Series, which came as a bit of a surprise. “The Heat” is at his best outwrestling his opponents, which is not the typical favored style of the UFC boss. Still, Lawrence is a consistently exciting fighter, as he supplements those wrestling skills with a high-paced striking game, staying evasive and at range before suddenly mixing things up and charging into his opponents for a takedown. Lawrence is still at the point where he can be elusive but he is not particularly defensive, so against the right opponent, that approach can result in a fun and fast affair, which could become the case here. Martinez is an interesting talent to watch, mostly thanks to his finishing ability. In general, Martinez does not appear to have the level of athleticism needed to compete in the UFC’s deep bantamweight division, but it is also hard to argue with his regional results, as he managed to put together a string of quick and impressive knockouts. His UFC debut in August against Guido Cannetti, the first decision victory of his career, was not the type of overwhelming performance that instantly guarantees future success, but it was good to see Martinez piece together 15 effective minutes, particularly if he carries his knockout power going forward. That knockout power provides the intrigue in his latest assignment. Otherwise, Lawrence looks like the much stronger and quicker fighter, and he should be able to get his wrestling game rolling whenever he springs to action. He could just charge directly into a knockout punch, but with Lawrence also appearing to be historically durable, he should be able to ride things out. The pick is Lawrence via decision.

Continue Reading » Carneiro vs. Hernandez