This Saturday, April 5, the UFC is set to make an exciting comeback to the Apex in Las Vegas with UFC Vegas 105. The event’s prime attraction is a decisive featherweight battle between noted contestants Josh Emmett and Lerone Murphy. The lineup for the evening offers an assortment of thrilling matches across several divisions, featuring both rising prospects and experienced combatants keen on leaving their impact on the fighting scene.
In the main event of the night, a consequential featherweight confrontation is set to take place between the 8th-ranked Josh Emmett and 10th-ranked Lerone Murphy. Former interim title contender Emmett is riding the waves of his impressive knockout victory against Bryce Mitchell in December 2023. Recognized for his dynamism and indomitable spirit, Emmett is ready to affirm his position among the top competition, having overcome several setbacks and injuries in the past.
Facing Emmett is the undefeated professional fighter Lerone Murphy, boasting a record of 15-0-1. The skilled tactician from England outmatched Dan Ige last October with his precise striking techniques. A successful bout against Emmett would reinforce Murphy’s standing as a formidable contender in the division, potentially paving the way for a face-off with a top-five opponent.
A riveting featherweight matchup between grappling expert Pat Sabatini and hard-hitting Joanderson Brito will serve as the co-main event. Promising a style mix that could set off sparks, both fighters intend on ascending the division’s ladder with a definitive victory. Meanwhile, middleweight professionals Brad Tavares and Gerald Meerschaert are pitted against each other in a potentially strategic clash.
Also included in the lineup is a potentially high-energy heavyweight bout between Kennedy Nzechukwu and Martin Buday. UFC Vegas 105, which boasts a promising blend of new and well-established talent, is quickly shaping up to be a must-see event for all MMA enthusiasts.
Pat Sabatini’s superior grappling skills and calculated approach give him a significant advantage in this co-main event against Joanderson Brito. Sabatini, a black belt holder in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, has consistently proved his dominance on the mat, as demonstrated by his victory through first-round submission against Jonathan Pearce in October. His unyielding offence and control tactics in the top position make him a challenging opponent for those reliant on striking.
Brito, while being a formidable and aggressive competitor, has evidenced weaknesses when confronting top-notch wrestling tactics. Sabatini is expected to exploit these slips by using sharp takedowns and positional control to neutralize Brito’s striking prowess. Along with this, Sabatini’s disciplined mental framework and focus during matches have amplified his on-ground performances, potentially turning the tide against Brito’s high-velocity style.
Brito, while possessing knockout strength and agility, his propensity to absorb strikes and struggle against grappling experts may offer Sabatini opportunities to clinch another submission win. Considering Sabatini’s outstanding wrestling and submission capabilities, fans can expect him to control the fight’s rhythm and take advantage of any defensive slips Brito may make, leading to a possible win.
Daniel Frunza stands a strong chance of triumphing over Rhys McKee at UFC Vegas 105, courtesy of his potent striking skills and the ability to exploit defensive blunders. Frunza’s lethal knockout ability enabled him to secure seven of his nine victories by KO/TKO, exemplified by his massive win over Vadym Kutsyi on Dana White’s Contender Series.
While McKee does hold a reach advantage and demonstrates a high frequency of strikes, his defensive lapses, such as the allowance of 7.85 significant strikes per minute, leaves him vulnerable to Frunza’s aggressive mode of fighting. Moreover, Frunza’s robust defensive capabilities, deflecting 51% of the strikes directed at him, suggests that he can reduce the impact of McKee’s offensive maneuvers efficiently while dealing heavy counter-hits.
Furthermore, Frunza’s momentum sharply contrasts with McKee’s struggling UFC career. McKee has been on the losing end of four of his last six matches, falling to both Chidi Njokuani and Ange Loosa. Despite his early career knockouts, Frunza’s endurance and adaptability might give him leverage in prolonged exchanges.
Expect Frunza to maintain a high-pressure stance against McKee. By capitalizing on the latter’s defensive weaknesses, he could continue his ascent in the welterweight division, possibly securing a victory by strikes or ground control.
Aiming for a victory at the UFC Vegas 105 is Daniel Santos, whose relentless stamina and versatile striking abilities present a formidable challenge to Davey Grant. Santos has previously dominated his opponents with exceptional strength in bouts, as he had during his match against Johnny Munoz where he delivered 134 hits on his adversary. His forceful approach could potentially unsettle Grant, who has shown struggles when paired against more explosive and agile opponents.
Santos’ ability to blend striking with grappling techniques could keep Grant defensive, curbing his chances of landing his signature power strikes. Despite Grant being a potent finisher with knockout power and commendable submission skills, questions about his consistency persist. He’s lost two out of his last three matches, including a tight call against Daniel Marcos.
Considering Santos’ capacity to sustain aggression, absorbing 5.12 strikes per minute, he could hold off Grant’s early advances and control the fight as it advances. Anticipate Santos utilizing his all-rounded abilities to control the fight’s tempo, potentially leading to a grueling decision win or late knockout against the veteran Englishman.