Mike Rodriguez vs. Marcin Prachino Prediction and Odds, UFC Vegas 7
Fight three of recent UFC main cards have gained favor as all-action wars where neither side make the final bell. Saturday’s co-main and main event primer between Mike Rodriguez and Marcin Prachino fits that bill on paper. While Rodriguez and Prachino fall outside the consensus top 50 light heavyweight ratings, their all-or-nothing styles give MMA enthusiasts an exciting affair to consider before recognized Octagon entrants battle.
This UFC Vegas 7 preview will consider each man’s brief Zuffa tenure and chances at victory from the Apex Facility.
Mike Rodriguez (-235)
Mike “Slow” Rodriguez enters Saturday after recently suffering his first professional TKO loss vs. Da Un Jung. The Korean Top Team member waded inside Rodríguez’ 82.5-inch reach to deliver an abrupt night-ending right hand at 1:05 of the opening frame. Standing 1-2 opposite UFC fare, Rodriguez was outgrappled by Devin Clark after starching Jamelle Jones to gain Octagon entrance on Dana White’s Contender Series.
The Lauzon MMA product has finished all ten of his paid victims, including Zuffa prospect Adam Milstead. Overall, Rodriguez lands 4.30 strikes per minute while absorbing 3.15. The classic Muay Thai fighter is often overwhelmed by stronger wrestlers, but does hold two submissions and a BJJ purple belt. However, Prachino hasn't shown wrestling chops and appears prime for a Rodriguez showcase.
Marcin Prachino (+195)
After taking two years from active competition, Scandinavian import Marcin Prachino looks to avoid a third consecutive TKO loss Saturday. Heavy hitters Sam Alvey and Magomed Ankalaev rudely welcomed Prachino to Octagon life with first round knockouts. Though, before those humbling defeats, the rising light heavyweight gained eight unbroken wins in various smaller promotions. It’s worth noting Prachino owns 10 TKO’s and one submission in 13 pro wins. Following his extended layoff, a knockout strike is Prachino’s most likely winning ticket vs. an active opponent boasting greater success at the highest level.
Overall, Prachino lands 2.39 strikes per minute, but has been TKO'd three times.
The Prediction: Given each fighter's power and standup tendencicies, along with susceptible chins, don't expect a scorecard decision. With his greater activity and opponent's inability to absorb damage, take Mike Rodriguez by TKO at UFC Vegas 7.
The Pick: Mike Rodriguez by TKO
Odds courtesy of BestFightOdds.com
