Preview: UFC 285 Prelims

Bantamweights

Cameron Saaiman (7-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. Leomana Martinez (10-3, 2-1 UFC)

ODDS: Saaiman (-250), Martinez (+210)

There is still a lot to work out, but the 22-year-old Saaiman is a prospect worth watching. Thus far, South Africa’s “MSP” is following in the footsteps of teammate Dricus Du Plessis in that his best skill has been his sheer persistence. Saaiman can hold his own about anywhere, but his fights have started out relatively even until he takes over via pace and aggression. Saaiman wore out Joshua Wang Kim ahead of a third-round finish on Dana White’s Contender Series, then pulled much the same trick in his UFC debut against Steven Koslow in December. It will be interesting to see what he can do in a winnable but dangerous fight against Martinez.

Martinez was an interesting fighter on the regional scene. He did not read as a particularly high-level athlete or overwhelming power puncher but still managed to score a string of impressive knockouts to earn a UFC contract. The KOs have dried up in Martinez’s three UFC bouts thus far, but he has proven himself to be a scrappy fighter who does not slow down over three rounds. Ronnie Lawrence used his wrestling to control Martinez, but the Texan rode pace and volume to wins over Guido Cannetti and Brandon Davis. There is a solid chance Saaiman leaves himself open for a knockout blow from Martinez, but the South African gets the slight nod. He should be the quicker fighter, and while he has not focused much on his wrestling in the UFC thus far, he could find success if he hunts for takedowns as he cycles through offensive options. The pick is Saaiman via decision in a messy fight.

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Garbrandt vs. Jones
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Saaiman vs. Martinez
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