My top play
Ferreira -220 - fight showcases a rising fighter in Ferreira, who is looking to take out the wilting veteran Pettis. The former champ's skills are well known but his weaknesses equally have been exposed. Against any form of pressure fighter he cannot maintain a pace to stay competitive and is far less dangerous off the back-foot. Furthermore his durability is certainly in question as he appears to suffer some form of new injury every fight.
Ferreira is a relative unknown to the public but has rapidly improved into a solid fighter with skills in all areas. Most importantly here is the pace and forward pressure Ferreira brings which will have him mixing up close quarter striking, clinch work and takedowns. His grappling is world class which will limit Pettis’ options off his back where he has previously won fights with sneaky submissions. On the feet Ferreira lacks the flash seen at this level but as Pettis slows he will become an easy target.
This is a step up in competition and Pettis has mostly been fighting top 10 opponents. There is a clear trajectory to his performances though and it is tough to see him winning outside a low percentage stoppage in the first round, before cardio issues limit his speed and power. Expect some close exchanges early before Ferreira ultimately pulls away to secure a finish or dominant decision. Hate laying such chalk but cant see this one not cashing.
Ferreira -220 - fight showcases a rising fighter in Ferreira, who is looking to take out the wilting veteran Pettis. The former champ's skills are well known but his weaknesses equally have been exposed. Against any form of pressure fighter he cannot maintain a pace to stay competitive and is far less dangerous off the back-foot. Furthermore his durability is certainly in question as he appears to suffer some form of new injury every fight.
Ferreira is a relative unknown to the public but has rapidly improved into a solid fighter with skills in all areas. Most importantly here is the pace and forward pressure Ferreira brings which will have him mixing up close quarter striking, clinch work and takedowns. His grappling is world class which will limit Pettis’ options off his back where he has previously won fights with sneaky submissions. On the feet Ferreira lacks the flash seen at this level but as Pettis slows he will become an easy target.
This is a step up in competition and Pettis has mostly been fighting top 10 opponents. There is a clear trajectory to his performances though and it is tough to see him winning outside a low percentage stoppage in the first round, before cardio issues limit his speed and power. Expect some close exchanges early before Ferreira ultimately pulls away to secure a finish or dominant decision. Hate laying such chalk but cant see this one not cashing.
