UFC ON ESPN 52: Klose vs. Solecki 12/2/23 – UFC on ESPN 52 will feature an exciting lightweight bout between Drakkar Klose and Joe Solecki at lightweight division on December 2, 2023, scheduled for five rounds and both coming off recent wins. Read on for free MMA matchup tips and insights into Klose vs Solecki fight.
UFC ON ESPN 52: Klose vs. Solecki 12/2/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 2, 2023 at 4:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Moody Center, Austin, Texas, USA |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Drakkar Klose Analysis
Drakkar Klose enters with a professional record of 13-2-1 and is currently on a 2-fight win streak. His last victory came via unanimous decision against Rafa Garcia in July 2022. Klose possesses impressive striking accuracy, landing at 55% while absorbing only 3.44 significant strikes per minute. His offensive wrestling is also notable, averaging 1.8 takedowns per 15 minutes. While not much of a finisher, Klose utilizes high pace and pressure to grind opponents down.
In his bout with Garcia, Klose displayed sharp boxing and counter punching, out-landing his opponent in significant strikes 98 to 63. He also scored multiple takedowns in that fight while avoiding damage. With well-rounded skills and developing power, Klose is a difficult matchup for most lightweights. His cardio allows him to set a fast tempo from round 1, constantly pressuring opponents. Meanwhile, his wrestling control and grappling allow him to dictate fighting positions. Klose doesn’t have one-punch knockout power, but he breaks opponents down with volume. Against Solecki this weekend, he’ll look to establish his jab early, avoid submissions, and wrestle at opportune spots. If Klose can negate Solecki’s grappling, his path to victory relies on simply out-working him for a decision.
Joe Solecki Analysis
Joe Solecki also rides momentum into this fight, having won his last bout against Carl Deaton by submission in April 2022. He holds a 13-3 record overall. What Solecki may lack in striking volume and power, only landing 2.24 significant strikes per minute, he makes up for with stellar grappling and jiu-jitsu. He attempts takedowns frequently, succeeding on 50% of them, while also hunting for submissions at a high rate. Just over half of Solecki’s wins have come via tap out, flashing tricky chokes and joint locks after bringing the fight horizontal.
Facing Deaton, Solecki immediately closed distance to work for a body lock takedown. After securing top position, he smoothly transitioned between half-guard, side control, and mount while fishing for submissions. Solecki eventually cinched in a fight ending rear naked choke in round 2. His other UFC wins came via north-south choke and kneebar, proving his versatility on the mat.
Solecki appears to still be improving under the bright lights. His submission skills present huge problems for all lightweight foes, especially if he ends up in top position. A striker like Klose poses an interesting challenge as Solecki will need to avoid damage closing distance. But should he manage to change levels for his preferred takedowns, he has more ways to end this fight.
Drakkar Klose vs. Joe Solecki Stats
| Klose | Solecki | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 13-2-1 | 13-3-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 12:57 | 11:05 |
| Height | 5′ 9″ | 5′ 9″ |
| Weight | 155 lbs. | 155 lbs. |
| Reach | 70″ | 70″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 4.38 | 2.24 |
| Striking Accuracy | 55% | 55% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 3.44 | 1.53 |
| Defense | 52% | 52% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 1.80 | 2.51 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 30% | 50% |
| Takedown Defense | 69% | 50% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 0.0 | 1.6 |
Drakkar Klose vs. Joe Solecki Betting Pick
After researching both fighters, the pick for this lightweight contest is Joe Solecki. While Klose may possess superior striking and experience, Solecki stands out with superior grappling skills and higher takedown accuracy that could prove deadly against Klose’s powerful striking. Additionally, Solecki’s use of submissions poses an impressive threat should the fight go to the mat; therefore betting on Solecki at -105 odds appears like a wise strategic move which capitalizes on his superior grappling dominance and submission skills.
Free Pick: Joe Solecki -105
In conclusion, our premium game day picks suggest Joe Solecki as the likely winner against Drakkar Klose in their upcoming bout at UFC on ESPN 52. Solecki’s grappling expertise, combined with his calculated approach, positions him well against Klose’s striking-focused style. This fight is expected to be a strategic and technical contest, providing an exciting showcase of the diverse skill sets within the lightweight division.