UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs Daukaus- Raphael Assuncao vs Ricky Simon- Prediction and Analysis

UFC bantamweights Raphael Assuncao and Ricky Simon will collide on the main card for UFC Vegas 45 at the Apex Facility. Both men are in different stages in their career and fans are curious to see how this fight plays out. Not to mention, hardcore fans have circled this contest as a potential ‘Fight of the Night’ showcase.

The bantamweight division is arguably one of the strongest divisions in the UFC and there’s a lot to watch out for in the coming months. Apart from the title picture being murky, the talent pool at bantamweight is an embarrassment of riches. It will be up to both Assuncao and Simon to separate themselves from the pack and make their mark.

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UFC Vegas 43: Raphael Assuncao vs Ricky Simon

Assuncao has lost three fights on the trot and he’s on the verge of possibly receiving his walking papers. Once a credentialed contender, Assuncao’s chin has been cracked on multiple occasions and he’s suffered some major setbacks. However, he still has 35 professional fights and is not lacking experience in the major leagues.

Assuncao will need to focus on being defensively responsible throughout the fight and avoid any power punches. He could stay behind a jab and not enter a firefighter with a fighter in Simon, who is lightning quick.

Ricky Simon is one of the most consistent performers in the UFC and he makes it a point to maintain an active strength of schedule. He’s on a three fight win streak and picked up two clinical wins in 2021 alone. He closes out the year in dramatic fashion and comes out as one mainstay contenders in 2022.

Simon packs a punch and his forward pressure has been a throne on the side of many former opponents. He has a battle tested chin as well and it won’t be an effortless task to put him away. However, he’ll advised to avoid engaging Assuncao on the ground as he could give up his natural advantages on the canvas.

Prediction: Ricky Simon to claim a third-round TKO

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