UFC - UFC Fight Night
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by Devesh Jaganath | in UFC Predictions
Gilbert Burns will take on Michael Morales in the welterweight division at UFC Fight Night 256 live from the UFC Apex in Las Vegas on Saturday night. Durinho has a pro record of 22-8-0 while The Cobra is 17-0-0. Let’s get into the match prediction.
Gilbert Burns is returning to the Octagon for the first time since September 7, when he went the distance with Sean Brady but lost the fight on unanimous decision.
That defeat was Durinho’s third in succession following losses to Jack Della Maddalen by KO/TKO and Belal Muhammad by decision. At 38, you feel this may be his last chance to work his way back to a title shot.
There is no doubt that Burns' cardio isn’t what it used to be, so his solid ground game is likely to be his go-to in this match against a much younger competitor.
Indeed, Michael Morales is 25 years old and moving up the ranks, now stepping back inside the cage after a first-round stoppage against Neil Magny in August last year.
That result earned him a Performance of the Night bonus and kept his unbeaten record intact, which includes a six-match win streak since joining the UFC.
Morales averages 5.42 significant strikes per minute, 1.16 takedowns per 15 minutes, and a 92% takedown defence. He also holds the height and reach advantage over his opponent.
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Gilbert Burns - Michael Morales Key Points
- Gilbert Burns is on a three-match losing streak.
- Gilbert Burns has lost eight of his 30 pro fights.
- Michael Morales is unbeaten and on a six-match win streak in the UFC.
- Michael Morales is 13 years younger and has the height and reach advantage.
- Michael Morales has won 12 of his 17 career fights by KO/TKO.
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Our Gilbert Burns vs Michael Morales Prediction
Gilbert Burns comes into this match off the back of three consecutive defeats, and you can’t help but get the feeling that he is now past his prime and looking for one final hoorah.
Unfortunately, he comes up against a younger and dangerous Michael Morales, who, despite taking a step up in class here, has shown he is one to watch in the division. Morales has won three of his six UFC bouts by KO/TKO and 12 of his 17 career fights by the same method. Therefore, our Gilbert Burns vs Michael Morales prediction is Michael Morales wins the match.
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All tips are fully researched and given in good faith, but profits cannot be guaranteed.
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