Kyle Anthony 5% Pannie Kianzad +110
Analysis:
In a preliminary bout, Pannie Kianzad faces Raquel Pennington…
This is a situation where the younger rising talent faces a grizzled vet.
Raquel Pennington has been known for her brawling mentality and willingness to move forward trading shots. With a current MMA record of 11-8 she's seemingly on a down turn and her most recent fight displayed that. Against Marion Reneau who's 44 years old, 0-5 in last 5 UFC appearances and at that time heading towards retirement… even with all that, Pennington looked very unimpressive in the win. Most of the time holding Marion up against the fence jockeying for position and at times losing control with basic grappling mistakes. Striking exchanges were also sloppy on both parts with iffy defense and thats something Kianzard can capitalize on. Although a decision win for Pennington, it was very lackluster. Overall yes, she's faced some tough competition but mostly still relevant in the UFC due to her name recognition. Over the last few years Pennington is who she is at this point, there's no surprises. Game plan is always moving forward swing toe to toe. Against someone like Pannie Kianzad who's a rising talent in the division, highly technical on her feet with fantastic hand speed and counter striking ability is the perfect match up for success at plus money. Currently Kianzad's on a 4 fight winning streak beating some tough opponents along the way like Sijara Eubanks and Alexis Davis. Both those bouts Kianzad was a client play winner and I'm going to continue backing her until the odds catch up to her skill level. Not only did Pannie show her toughness against two very strong willed females with solid chins, ..but thats basically the exact style she's going to face against Raquel Saturday night. The game plan for her won't change and somewhat should be overly prepared with minimal worry of takedowns, Pannie can utilize her much higher level striking all fight long. Each bout she continues elevating and her path to victory will be her hands. With a background in boxing and crisp combinations mixed in with good footwork and a strong check left hook spells problems for Pennington who's striking defense is filled with holes. From the opening bell in round 1 I believe the hand speed advantage for Kianzad will be displayed. There's potential for a dominating performance win from Kianzad.
5% Best Bet: Pannie Kianzad (+110)
