B/R Staff Back Pantoja in UFC 331 Rematch, Sweep 3-0 for Tsarukyan
Updated
Updated · Bleacher Report · Sep 17
B/R Staff Back Pantoja in UFC 331 Rematch, Sweep 3-0 for Tsarukyan
3 articles · Updated · Bleacher Report · Sep 17
Summary
Two of three B/R staffers picked former flyweight champion Alexandre Pantoja to beat Joshua Van at UFC 331, expecting the rematch to deliver a clearer result after their first meeting ended in 26 seconds with Pantoja's arm injury.
Three of three backed Arman Tsarukyan over Mauricio Ruffy in the five-round co-main, largely on Tsarukyan's grappling edge and stronger résumé against top lightweight opposition.
Doo Ho Choi drew two of three picks against 39-year-old Patricio "Pitbull" Freire, with staff citing Choi's size, reach and higher activity against the former Bellator champion.
Iwo Baraniewski and Gable Steveson were unanimous selections, both by first-round TKO, as staff highlighted Baraniewski's 7-fight stoppage run and Steveson's 4 straight quick wins.
Saturday's Los Angeles card centers on whether Van can validate his title reign in a proper rematch and whether Tsarukyan can strengthen his case for a lightweight title shot.