‘The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil 3’ Finale Preview

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Featherweights

Rony Mariano Bezerra (14-4, 4-1 UFC) vs. Robbie Peralta (17-4, 3-1 UFC)

The Matchup: Bezerra bounced back nicely from a devastating knockout loss to Jeremy Stephens in November, as he stopped the usually durable Steven Siler in just 67 seconds in his most recent outing. The win over Siler was the most significant of Bezerra’s UFC tenure to date and once again showcased the Brazilian’s dangerous knockout power.

“The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil” winner will be facing a like-minded foe in Peralta, who has finished 13 of his 17 career victories by knockout or technical knockout. Peralta is capable of ending a fight abruptly -- take his 23-second stoppage of Jason Young at UFC on Fuel TV 5, for example -- but he can also be a slow starter. In his most recent outing, Peralta had likely lost two rounds to Estevan Payan before rallying to drop his opponent with a pair of left hooks 12 seconds into the final frame. When Peralta employs his aggression to full effect, the results can be frightening.

Since both featherweights have the potential to finish a fight in rapid fashion, the beginning of the matchup could prove to be pivotal. Bezerra displayed good composure against Siler before landing the decisive blows, and his ability to counter effectively with his right hand could be the difference should Peralta rush him early.

Bezerra’s muay Thai background enables him to land powerful knees in the clinch, but the Brazilian could frame a triangle choke from his back should he find Peralta on top of him. Meanwhile, Peralta’s aggression and heavy hands seem to be his best assets, although he did feed Mike Lullo a heavy dose of kicks to the legs and body in a September 2011 bout.

The Pick: Bezerra might have to get his chin tested to get there, but he appears to have more tools with which to get the victory. Rony “Jason” finishes the fight in round two or three.

Next Fight » Warlley Alves vs. Marcio Alexandre Jr.