Preview: UFC Fight Night 158 ‘Cowboy vs. Gaethje’

Welterweights

Michel Pereira (22-9) vs. Tristan Connelly (10-6)

ODDS: N/A

Brazil’s Pereira is an absolute madman, and it was a pleasant surprise when the UFC signed him off a viral performance that included multiple flips and jumps off the cage. It was an even nicer surprise when Pereira won his UFC debut. His flashy, disconnected style figures to hit a wall at some point, but he absolutely annihilated Danny Roberts in highlight-reel fashion in May.

This time around, Pereira gets a main card showcase against a promotional newcomer in Connelly, who steps in on less than a week’s notice. Connelly has earned this shot after a decade-long career, and while it is something of a heartwarming story that he makes his debut at home in British Columbia, based on what little footage is available, he figures to be overmatched here.

Connelly is a career lightweight and not much of an athlete, so Pereira figures to be fast enough to land whatever he decides to throw without much of a concern. The pick is Pereira via first-round knockout.

Last Fights » ESPN+ Prelims