UFC 248 Main Card Preview And Predictions
3. Beneil Dariush (17-4-1) Vs. Drakkar Klose (11-1-1)
Though it's been a rocky road in the UFC, it appears Beneil Dariush may finally be turning the corner. After an impressive submission victory over Frank Camacho last October, he finds himself riding a three-fight win streak. A well-rounded fighter with a black belt in both Muay Thai and Jiu-Jitsu, Dariush looks poised to become a contender in the lightweight division.
His opponent, Drakkar Klose, has also won three in a row. Klose is a versatile fighter with a wrestling background who has become an excellent striker as his career has progressed. He's sporting an impressive 11-1-1 record, and his only loss came by way of decision.
When he's on, Dariush has looked unstoppable at times. However, his chin hasn't always help up, and he's been on the receiving end of some devastating knockouts.
Though he hasn't finished anyone in his first five UFC fights, Klose won four of of them via TKO, so he has shown the ability to stop his opponents.
That being said, if Dariush can stay upright, this should be his fight to lose. The Iranian's striking looks a bit sharper, and his championship jiu-jitsu background makes him more of a submission threat — though Klose wrestling should keep things interesting.
Moreover, Dariush looks like he may be the more athletic fighter of the two, which could give him a slight edge in a fight between two skilled and relatively evenly matched fighters.
The Pick: Dariush via decision.