Steve Garcia vs Melquizael Costa Preview: UFC ESPN 52
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STEVE GARCIA VS MELQUIZAEL COSTA FACTS
When is UFC on ESPN 52? Sunday 10th December, 2023 - 01:00 (UK)
Where is UFC on ESPN 52? Moody Center, Austin, Texas (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC on ESPN 52? Click here to buy tickets for UFC on ESPN
What channel is UFC on ESPN 52 on? TNT Sports 2
Where can I stream UFC on ESPN 52? 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!
STEVE GARCIA VS MELQUIZAEL COSTA LOWDOWN
Steve Garcia (14-5) had to pull out the day before of their originally scheduled bout last week in Austin. He fell ill, but he is ready to return to continue his momentum two brilliant knockouts. He was coming off a starching by Hayisaer Maheshate (2022) and the went on to humble Chase Hooper (2022) four months later and then folded Shayilan Nuerdanbieke (2023) with a body kick.
Melquizael Costa (20-6) received a baptism of fire on his UFC debut back in January. He stepped up on short notice at UFC 283 to fight Thiago Moises. He ended up getting submitted in the second round, but bounced back with a classy unanimous decision over Austin Lingo in July.
STEVE GARCIA VS MELQUIZAEL COSTA PREDICTION
We hope Garcia is back to full health as on paper, this is banger. Garcia is a wild man and will no doubt burst out the gate and walk Costa down. The Brazilian is also an aggressive striker but is more technical with better defence.
We expect the majority of this fight to play out on the feet, but do not be surprised if Garcia calls upon his wrestling especially if he gets rocked. Before then, he will hunt the knockout which could easily play into Costa’s hands.
We expect the Brazilian to be patient and wait for Garcia to commit before countering like a sniper and chopping him down with leg kicks to slow him down.
We are backing Costa to earn a decision and can easily see him securing a late finish. Garcia is worth a small punt considering the odds.
Prediction: Costa via Decision
Value bet: Garcia to win
