Nathan Ray Seebeck-USA TODAY Sports

Previewing Matheus Nicolau vs. Alex Perez

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Jacob Walters | Last updated 4/23/24

UFC Fight Night: Nicolau vs. Perez is set to be a barn-burner on Saturday. With Matheus Nicolau and Alex Perez squaring off, UFC fans can expect great fights across the card. However, let’s look at the main event closely and see what it offers.

It’s a tale of two flyweight contenders hoping for a crack at Alexandre Pantoja’s title. The champion has an iron grip on the division, making life tough for any competitors. However, a victory is a step in the right direction, getting the winner closer to fighting the Brazilian superstar.

So what does each fighter bring to the table? What’s a good reason to believe in each fighter heading into Saturday? It’s time to make like a “fly” on the wall and see what each fighter is made of.

The Tape on Matheus Nicolau

Matheus Nicolau (19-4-1) is a defensive fighter of sorts, feeling out his opponents before striking. The MMA fighter defends well, stopping strikes (66% success rate) and takedowns (93% success rate), making him a tough match-up.

The Brazilian fighter did this against Matt Schnell, jumping around the ring with speed and grace. His ability to escape danger and efficiency helped him in the fight, leading to a KO/TKO (punch) victory. If Nicolau wants to win against Perez, he must use his defensive ability and speed to his advantage.

The Tape on Alex Perez

Alex Perez (24-8) is replacing Manel Kape in this fight. With Kape pulling out, it gives the native of Lemoore, California, a chance to prove himself. In a sense, Perez is similar to his opponent, Nicolau: Both are defensive fighters who look for the best opportunity to strike.

However, the flyweight is more aggressive than Nicolau, striking at every turn. He gets a feel of the fight by keeping his opponent on his toes, using swift kicks and strikes to take his foe out of the game. While this seems like a good strategy, it must be used in moderation against the Brazilian fighter. Otherwise, Nicolau will land a lethal counterattack on Perez.

The Verdict

Somehow, there’s a viable reason for Perez to win this fight. While he’s a more aggressive fighter, he’s also efficient, looking for any way to take his opponent’s body out of the game. Such intelligence and power can become overwhelming for a foe.

Fighting fans saw this with Ryan Garcia as he obliterated Devin Haney with a devastating left hook. If Perez cranks up the offense against Matheus Nicolau, it can be over in an instant. Therefore, the Brazilian fighter must look for an opening against Perez.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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