Tuivasa vs. Tybura Preview and Predictions By: Brett Cagle
No. 9 Tai Tuivasa (15-6) vs. No. 10 Marcin Tybura (24-8):
In the main event of this week’s Fight Night card from the UFC APEX, fan-favorite Tai Tuivasa looks to get back in the win column against well-rounded veteran Marcin Tybura. Tuivasa has lost three straight, his most recent by submission to Alexander Volkov. Tybura was knocked out by interim heavyweight champion Tom Aspinall last July, and both fighters need a win to stay in the top-10 rankings.
Tybura has been knocked out five times in his career, while Tuivasa has been submitted twice. This exciting clash of styles should lead to an entertaining main event. Currently, online sportsbooks have Tuivasa as a slight betting favorite (-115). Tuivasa’s submission loss to a striker in Volkov makes me believe he will have a hard time if the fight hits the ground.
Prediction: Marcin Tybura by Submission
Bryan Battle (11-2) vs. Ange Loosa (10-3):
Former TUF winner Bryan Battle returns to the cage this weekend in a co-main event matchup with Ange Loosa. Battle’s only loss inside the UFC came against Russian powerhouse Rinat Fakhredinov (21-1 MMA). Loosa is a native of the Republic of Congo and a physically imposing athlete. Loosa is exceptionally durable and has never been finished his professional career. Since Battle’s first loss, he has rebounded nicely with wins over AJ Fletcher and Gabe Green.
Battle will have a three-inch reach advantage and is the better technical striker. Look for Battle to try to pick Loosa apart at range with damaging leg kicks and an effective jab. Battle is still young and has massive potential at 170 pounds.
Prediction: Bryan Battle by decision
Gerald Meerschaert (35-17) vs. Bryan Barberena (18-11):
Crafty veterans Gerald Meerschaert and Bryan Barberena battle in a middleweight contest on the main card. Meerschaert is a jiu-jitsu ace who has won 27 fights by submission and will have a distinct advantage on the ground. Barberena has yet to win at 185 pounds and found most of his success at welterweight. Both fighters are on losing streaks and desperately need a win. Barberena has finished 11 opponents by knockout, including former UFC champion Robbie Lawler and Jake Ellenberger.
If Meerschaert can find takedowns, this will be a long night for Barberena. Meerschaert has been knocked out four times in his career, and Barberena has legitimate power. Barberena must stop the takedown and draw Meerschaert into a slugfest to win this fight. But I see Gerald as too experienced and skilled.
Prediction: Gerald Meerschaert by decision
The UFC Fight Night prelims will begin at 4 p.m. ET/1 p.m. PT, and the main card will start at 7 p.m. ET/ 4 p.m. PT and can be seen on ESPN+ (via a subscription).