MMA Preview – Ricky Simon vs Gaetano Pirrello at UFC Fight Island 8
RICKY SIMON VS GAETANO PIRRELLO FACTS
When is UFC Fight Island 8? Wednesday 20th January, 2021 - 15:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC Fight Island 8? Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi (UAE)
Where can I get tickets for UFC Fight Island 8? No tickets are available as this event will take place with a limited number of spectators
What channel is UFC Fight Island 8 on? BT Sport 3
Where can I stream UFC Fight Island 8? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
RICKY SIMON VS GAETANO PIRRELLO LOWDOWN
Covid-19 was desperate for Ricky Simon (16-3) and Brian Kelleher not to fight striking them both down cancelling two fights. Fortunately, Simon is healthy and ready to bang hoping to continue where he left off in dominating Ray Borg back in May. One judge somehow gave the fight to Borg forcing a split decision but either way it came with great relief coming off two losses, firstly a TKO to Urijah Faber and a unanimous decision to Rob Font.
Gaetano Pirrello (15-5-1) is Simon’s new dance partner and the Belgium native makes his UFC debut. Pirrello is coming off two TKO wins for European Beatdown, but those fights were a year apart in 2018 and 2019. Pirrello has pedigree but he has not been active and not beaten anyone of note.
RICKY SIMON VS GAETANO PIRRELLO PREDICTION
Simon is understandably the heavy favourite welcoming the newcomer on short notice. Pirrello’s route to victory is forcing this fight into a brawl. He is a very aggressive and powerful striker who is dangerous at close range and if he can tempt Simon into some scrappy exchanges, he can cause havoc with his devastating elbows.
However, Simon has too much experience to take the bait. He has the technique to win the fight on the feet, but his wrestling is on a different level and he will completely ragdoll Pirrello if he decides to.
Prediction: Simon via Submission
