Preview: UFC on ESPN 35 Prelims

Flyweights

NR | Tatsuro Taira (10-0, 0-0 UFC) vs. NR | Carlos Candelario (8-1, 0-0 UFC)

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BETUS ODDS: Taira (NA), Candelario (NA)

Two flyweight newcomers clash as the UFC continues to add depth to the division. Taira feels like the first top Japanese prospect that the UFC has picked up in a while, and he is certainly worth the shot. The third UFC fighter born in the 21st century, Taira is undefeated in his three-plus years as a professional. As a fighter, Taira is an accurate but overly patient striker, though he truly shines when things get to the mat. He is a talented grappler who went 3-for-3 in 2021 in terms of winning his fights via submission. For his first challenge, he will face Candelario, who had a long path to the Octagon. “The Cannon” won his 2017 fight on the first edition of Dana White’s Contender Series but did not earn a contract, leading to a four-year layoff until Candelario returned in August. He made up for lost time. After winning that return bout, Candelario stepped in for a fight on the 2021 season of the Contender Series just three and a half weeks later. Candelario looked decent enough in a decision loss to Victor Altamirano, but in a surprising move, UFC President Dana White decided to offer both men a contract. That made Candelario the first fighter to earn a UFC deal on the show after losing his fight. He represents a solid next test for Taira, but he will likely engage the Japanese prospect where he is at his best and suffer for it. Taira pops as a much more potent finisher and standout athlete on film. The pick is Taira via first-round submission.