Adam Williams presents his prediction for the UFC Fight Night 245 fight.
Anthony Hernandez
Hernandez will carefully gauge the distance with his jab while pulling back at any sign of danger. If Michel goes on the offensive, Anthony will counter with wide punches from all angles, attempting to grab a leg. The American fighter can catch kicks and duck under punches to close in and unleash a combination or move into a clinch. During stand-up grappling, Hernandez will strike with elbows from below and latch firmly onto the body. Anthony will risk seeking a submission from any position, and even if it means losing position and ending up underneath, he will threaten with a triangle choke.
Michel Pereira
After soft straight punches to the head, Pereira will add a sharp front kick to the liver. He'll throw some middle kicks followed by a lightning-fast overhand or spinning strike. Michel will constantly change levels in his attacks, pressuring Anthony and keeping him at arm's length. The Brazilian will use feint punches to disguise a devastating high kick or a sudden flying knee. Landing a shot while shifting, he'll attempt to go for the body and take the back. If Hernandez escapes or drags Pereira to the ground, the Brazilian will immediately break the distance.
Betting Odds
Bookmakers offer closely matched odds, as this is a contest between two unpredictable all-rounders. Anthony is a slight favourite due to his awkward and at times more chaotic fighting style compared to Michel. The odds for a Hernandez victory stand at 7/10.
Analysts believe the fight will inevitably go to the ground, where the Brazilian is considered to be at a disadvantage. A bet on Pereira's victory can be placed at odds of 11/10.
Anthony Hernandez vs Michel Pereira Prediction
Hernandez's unorthodox technique and long reach will enable him to hold his own against Pereira in the stand-up exchanges, though the Brazilian is likely to be ahead on points. In grappling, Anthony holds a slight edge, and when it comes to ground exchanges, a finish could come at any moment from either fighter. We believe that Michel will outstrike the American with his superior speed. Furthermore, Pereira's strength and decent grappling skills will help him avoid many issues in wrestling. Anthony's defensive flaws are plenty, and Michel can capitalise on them, as the American's chaos and aggression won't intimidate him. If the fight does go to the judges' decision, the more agile and precise striker will have a better chance of swaying them in his favour. Therefore, our pick is Pereira.
