Luke Fernandez is preparing to make his debut on the main UFC roster against Rodolfo Bellato at UFC 326.
Fernandez’s Path to UFC
Fernandez is an undefeated prospect. He is coming off an impressive 15-second knockout victory in his appearance on Dana White’s Contender Series.
Fernandez took time within CFFC, working on his craft before becoming the organisation’s light heavyweight champion. He dominated inferior opponents and showcased a fairly well-rounded skillset.
Along the way up the ranks, Fernandez also nabbed two grappling victories against UFC veterans Phil Hawes and Erik Anders. Both Hawes and Anders have won multiple UFC bouts with a grappling-centric gameplan.
Bellato’s Takedown Defence
Bellato boasts a 94% takedown defence thus far in his short UFC tenure.
If Bellato can keep the fight standing, he may have the overall striking advantage. However, his durability is questionable.
Fernandez’s Strengths
Fernandez is a physical fighter who will test the grappling of the current UFC light heavyweight roster.
He brings a powerful and versatile wrestling style. This could present issues for lesser athletes within the division he is entering.
Fernandez has shown he is willing to unleash his 1-2 with reckless abandon. He also has good timing with his limited striking tools.
Bellato’s Durability
Bellato’s lack of durability seemed to be a major concern through five UFC appearances. However, his result against Navajo Stirling lends itself to the idea that his chin may not be as weak as many analysts perceived.
Bellato lost the first two rounds against Stirling. However, his chin held up, and he turned up the output in round three, pushing Stirling and winning it on one of the judges’ scorecards.
Betting Odds
Oddsmakers list this fight to end within the distance at -380, implying a 79% chance the judges will not be needed. By targeting the knockout specifically, a more palatable price can be found.
Fernandez may not be considered a knockout artist at this point. There are multiple ways for him to pay off his price tag as a substantial favourite. If his debut is spoiled, it’s likely such a result will translate to his first loss coming by way of knockout.