Featherweight
Henry Corrales (18-6, 6-6 Bellator) vs. Vladyslav Parubchenko (15-2, 0-1 Bellator)Corrales was thrown into the fire at the outset of his Bellator tenure with bouts against Daniel Straus, Emmanuel Sanchez and Patricio Freire in his first three appearances, so there is little that can intimidate the former King of the Cage champion at this point in his career. Corrales does have his flaws, though, which explains an up-and-down tenure within the California-based promotion. The Fight Ready representative rarely turns down an opportunity to brawl, and he possesses fight-finishing power — particularly in his overhand right. However, his tendency to throw caution to the wind can come back to haunt him thanks to spotty head movement and suspect defensive wrestling.
The good news for Corrales is that Parubchenko isn’t likely to engage in a firefight. A black belt in judo and combat sambo, Parubchenko’s first order of business is to get the action to the mat, whether that be through body locks, trips or throws from close quarters. What can get him in trouble is a poorly disguised shot, which he displayed on multiple occasions in his Bellator debut against John de Jesus. If Parubchenko doesn’t use strikes to set up his shots and clinch attempts, an opponent like Corrales with KO ability will have the opportunity to capitalize on his mistakes. Additionally, when Corrales is not brawling, he showcases good work to the body, a competent array of kicks and decent dirty boxing.
Parubchenko entered his Bellator debut with a glossy won-loss mark and an impressive track record of submission finishes. It’s still unclear if that will translate to big-show success for the Yaroslav Amasov training partner. Corrales, at the very least, will serve as another barometer for how far Parubchenko can go within the California-based promotion. Considering he already struggled against one journeyman, albeit one with solid reach and athleticism, it could be another difficult night for the Ukraine native.
THE PICK: Corrales by KO/TKO.
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