UFC Fight Night ‘Bigfoot vs. Arlovski 2’ Preview

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Welterweights

Santiago Ponzinibbio (18-2, 0-1 UFC) vs. Wendell Oliveira Marques (24-7, 0-0 UFC)

The Matchup: A finalist on the second season of “The Ultimate Fighter: Brazil,” Ponzinibbio lost his spot in the finale when he broke his hand. The Argentinean will now attempt to show his substantial potential after being derailed by injury and a rough debut loss against Ryan LaFlare in November. Marques, a Brazilian journeyman, comes in on late notice to replace the injured Sergio Moraes.

Marques is a massive, bricked-up specimen who puts that size to good use. A proficient clinch fighter, he employs a quick, explosive shot and finishes his takedown attempts with authority, slamming his opponents to the mat with brutal force. His heavy base and solid passes make him difficult to shake off once he gets top position, and that is essentially the core of his game. At range, Marques throws vicious kicks at all levels, and while his punching technique is far from perfect, there is no mistaking the force in his shots. Physicality and power, rather than particularly polished technique, are at the heart of Marques’ game.

Ponzinibbio, a product of Team Nogueira, offers a diverse and well-rounded attack. He is mostly a striker who prefers an array of powerful kicks at range and hard, well-timed punching combinations; he is most effective when moving forward behind a crisp jab and powerful right hand. His defensive wrestling is good enough to stuff most opponents’ initial shots, though Ponzinibbio has struggled against opponents who can effectively chain together their takedowns. The Argentinean is also a solid grappler, as he features an active though not exceptionally dangerous guard and excellent ground striking from top position. Cardio might be his biggest issue, and aggressive opponents who can push a pace and keep him working off his back foot have been a consistent problem.

Betting Odds: N/A

The Pick: Ponzinibbio is the rightful favorite, though Marques’ wrestling acumen and ability to work control from top position give him a distinct path to victory. The problem, however, is Marques’ lack of output at range and tendency to let his opponents get comfortable, while his counter game is wild at best and nonexistent at worst. Ponzinibbio is at his best against opponents who give him time and space to work, and Marques fits that description to a T. The pick is Ponzinibbio by decision, though a knockout would not be surprising if the Argentinean can push Marques toward the fence and unload combinations.

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