Maki Pitolo vs. Impa Kasanganay Prediction and Odds, UFC Fight Night 175
Opening UFC Fight Night 175 main event action pits recently defeated Maki Pitolo (+115) against Octagon newcomer Impa Kasanganay (-135).
The rub in this matchup is to learn if unbeaten Kasanganay is UFC material. Following two Contender Series wins, the latest this month versus Anthony Adams, Kasanganay has gained middleweight prospect laurels. Though, many touted hopefuls have fallen under bright UFC lights.
After being shut down by Darren Stewart two weeks ago, COVID-19 era notable Maki ‘Coconut Bombz’ Pitolo hopes to expose his latest challenge. However, the cult favorite striker may be biting off more than his share following the quick choke out loss vs. Stewart.
Pitolo lands 4.95 strikes per minute and gains 2.27 takedowns per 15 minutes. A two-fisted brawler with limited tact, the Hawaiian boasts seven TKO’s and three taps in 13 paid wins. Although, five fighters have either knocked out or submitted Maki through a winding career perhaps not fit for Octagon life. The biggest win Pitolo sports is a brutal June TKO over faded Charles Byrd. Without question the 29-year-old is appearing Saturday as much for his fan friendly kill or be killed style as what litmus test metrics he provides.
Yet, Pitolo rests 1-2 in the UFC and will likely be cut if he loses again.
That stated, it’s on newcomer Kasanganay to prove he can translate dynamic tools shown against Adams when facing savvy Pitolo. During his contract-winning Contender Series exhibition, the 26-year-old flashed quick hands and impactful takedowns. Each Kasanganay land thudded off his opponent, and little reason exists for the same to not happen at UFC Fight Night 175 against Pitolo.
However, in his biggest test to date, Kasanganay’s chin will be tested by ‘Coconut Bombz.’ Overall, the Octagon noob averages 5.53 significant strikes landed per minute and 2.50 takedowns per 15 minutes.
The Prediction: With each fighter offering 75” reaches, expect the faster, more explosive Kasanganay hands to land first. A decision specialist, the North Carolina native will overpower and outwrestle Pitolo to announce his UFC arrival and lend further credibility to the Contender Series.
The Pick: Impa Kasanganay by Decision
Odds courtesy of BestFightOdds.com
