Preview: UFC on ESPN 18 Main Card

ALPHA GINGER! What a debut for Spike Carlyle! #UFCNorfolk pic.twitter.com/hbWeR7z3PC

— UFC (@ufc) February 29, 2020

Featherweights

NR | Spike Carlyle (9-2, 1-1 UFC) vs. NR | Bill Algeo (13-5, 0-1 UFC)

ODDS: Carlyle (-165), Algeo (+145)

This should be a war. As expected for someone who calls themselves “The Alpha Ginger,” Carlyle certainly sticks out. An absolute tank of a physical specimen, Carlyle relies on his natural gifts and little else, coming out with aggression before overpowering his opponents, whether it is hunting for a knockout or bullying them around in the clinch or on the mat. Algeo should meet him head-on. A successful regional fighter, the Pennsylvanian has a long frame for a featherweight but does not make much use of it, instead working as an aggressive pressure striker who prefers to make things ugly in the clinch. That constant forward movement and complete lack of defense should play right into Carlyle’s hands, as he should be able to either crack Algeo early and often or control grappling exchanges through sheer force. There is a chance that Algeo can outlast him, but Carlyle has shown a willingness to fight through exhaustion; Algeo tends to tire out himself. Both men have a commitment to action, so this should be entertaining throughout. The pick is Carlyle via decision.

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