MMA Preview – Themba Gorimbo vs Pete Rodriguez at UFC Fight Night 235
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THEMBA GORIMBO VS PETE RODRIGUEZ FACTS
When is UFC Fight Night 235? Saturday 3rd February, 2024 - 22:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC Fight Night 235? UFC APEX, Enterprise, Las Vegas (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC Fight Night 235? Click here to buy tickets for UFC Fight Night
What channel is UFC Fight Night 235 on? TNT Sports 1
Where can I stream UFC Fight Night 235? TNT Sports subscribers can stream the fight online via the TNT Sports website and Discovery+
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!
THEMBA GORIMBO VS PETE RODRIGUEZ LOWDOWN
After losing his debut, Themba Gorimbo (11-4) had a lot to prove. He got submitted by AJ Fletcher (2023) back at UFC Fight Night 219. He returned in May to take of Takashi Sato and got back on track with a classy unanimous decision. He was preparing for Kiefer Crosbie who got injured but is thankfully he is still on the card as he hopes for a more emphatic win to boost his stock.
Pete Rodriguez (5-1) has filled in and is clinging onto his UFC contract. He pleased the UFC brass by stepping up on short notice to take on Jack Della Maddalena (2022) at UFC 270 but inevitably got knocked out. He went on to pick up a routine knockout over Mike Jackson (2022) but botched his weight cut against Natan Levy last year forcing the bout to be cancelled twice.
THEMBA GORIMBO VS PETE RODRIGUEZ PREDICTION
This is an easier fight for Gorimbo, but if he does not respect Rodriguez’s power, he will suffer a huge setback. Rodriguez possesses knockout power and will no doubt hunt the chin from the bell.
That should play into Gorimbo’s hands. He is a good counter-striker and will boast a six-inch reach and four-inch height advantage allowing him to snipe from range.
He also has the wrestling in his back pocket to call upon and we expect him to mix it in to play it safe at some point.
This is a good stylistic match-up for Gorimbo who’s long counter-striking and takedowns should earn a comfortable decision at least. Considering the odds, Rodriguez may be worth a small punt.
Prediction: Gorimbo via Decision
Value Bet: Rodriguez via KO/TKO
