Middleweights
NR | Dusko Todorovic (10-0, 1-0 UFC) vs. NR | Punahele Soriano (7-0, 1-0 UFC)This should be an interesting clash between middleweight prospects. Hawaii’s Soriano fits into the same mold as a lot of Dana White’s Contender Series signings: There is some obvious potential and a high ceiling for “Story Time,” but the risk is that he may have been brought onto the roster too soon. So far, Soriano has spent most of his career as a knockout hunter, which has gotten him six first-round finishes in his seven pro bouts, but his lone fight to go any length of time—his DWCS win over Jamie Pickett—provided reasons for both concern and hope. The concern? Even while fighting a fairly patient style to hunt for his big moments, Soriano still clearly tired himself out by the second round. The hope? He was able to rely on his wrestling to coast to a win. While Soriano certainly has the outlines of an effective game at a particular level, he still needs much more experience than he has in order to consistently outlast tough competition. Todorovic is an excellent next test from that standpoint, as the Serbian is surprisingly consistent for being a relatively raw prospect himself. Nothing in Todorovic’s performances truly stand out, but he is a well-rounded fighter with a smart and dedicated approach who takes advantage of what his opponent gives him. On the Contender Series, that meant an ugly decision win over Teddy Ash, but he managed to survive and outlast Michel Pereira in his last pre-UFC bout and had an impressive UFC debut by absolutely steamrolling Dequan Townsend. Soriano is an interesting next step up. Even if it is only for a round, the Hawaiian presents a combination of physicality, finishing ability and intelligence that should answer a lot of questions about Todorovic’s ability to swim in deeper waters. This could be where Todorovic hits a wall, whether it is Soriano cracking his chin or proving too physically powerful to grind out. However, look for the Serbian’s willingness to ride out some early trouble and take over for an ugly victory to prove useful here. The pick is Todorovic via decision.
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