As Hileah, Fla. native Yoislandy Izquierdo gets ready to take on Rafaello Oliveira, many experts are set to make their picks on the fight. While Oliveira is a slight favorite in the Vegas odds, most seem to feel like Izquierdo will be able to overwhelm Oliveira with his strikes while being good enough with his wrestling to keep the fight on the feet.
Dallas Winston of SB Nation's MMA blog Bloody Elbow gives his prediction on the fight:
Izquierdo looked comfortable in the clinch, maneuvering his hips for counter Judo throws in tie ups, and seemed to have a decent defensive guard that's geared towards creating space to escape. Oliveira isn't the type to doggedly pursue takedowns and is more patient in awaiting opportunities to change levels, which got him in trouble on the feet against Edwards in his last. I think Izquierdo has a bright future and will hold his own in takedown exchanges while being way too much for Oliveira standing.
My Prediction: Yoislandy Izquierdo by TKO.
For more on combat sports and the UFC, be sure to check out SB Nation's combat sports blog MMA Fighting.