Tatsuro Taira vs. Carlos Hernandez 12/9/23 – UFC Fight Night 233, set for December 9, 2023, is gearing up to showcase a compelling flyweight battle between the undefeated Tatsuro Taira and the formidable Carlos Hernandez. This matchup provides an opportunity for some potentially lucrative free MMA parlay picks for those who study the stats and details closely.
Tatsuro Taira vs. Carlos Hernandez 12/9/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 9, 2023 at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | UFC Apex, Las Vegas, Nevada, United States |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Tatsuro Taira Analysis
Tatsuro Taira enters with a perfect 14-0-0 record filled with promise. At just 23 years old, he displays skills years ahead of his age. On the feet, Taira unleashes accurate combinations, landing 3.23 significant strikes per minute at a strong 69% clip. He throws crisp punches, stinging kicks, knees and elbows to rack up points and damage. Against CJ Vergara in his last bout, Taira battered his opponent in the clinch with ruthless elbows leading to massive cuts.
Defensively, he is disciplined beyond his years, absorbing just 1.26 strikes per round. He keeps his hands high, moves his head well, and gets away from danger quickly after attacking. These traits point to a high fight IQ and fight savviness that often takes young athletes years to develop. So not only is Taira dynamic and dangerous on offense, but he is also responsible protecting himself on defense – a rare combination.
As good as Taira looks on the feet, his most dazzling skills are showcased on the mat. He attempts a whopping 2.41 takedowns per round, converting them at an impressive 41% rate. His ability to close the distance, finish takedowns in the blink of an eye, and immediately pass into dominant positions is breathtaking. Once in control on the canvas, Taira turns on the aggression with frightening killer instinct, attempting 2.8 submissions every 15 minutes. He broke out several submission attempts versus Vergara, finally locking in an armbar in Round 2 to elicit the tap. This combination of takedowns, control, and submissions points to perhaps the most promising ground game in the entire flyweight division.
Carlos Hernandez Analysis
Carlos Hernandez will attempt to derail the Taira hype train at UFC Fight Night 233. The veteran Hernandez is tough as nails, willing to walk through fire to grind out wins. With a professional record of 9-2-0, he has been in the cage with top talent.
On the feet, Hernandez comes forward constantly, stalking opponents with pressure. He throws a barrage of strikes, landing 5.51 significant blows per minute. The accuracy of those strikes suffers at just 46%, but the sheer volume and activity keeps judges impressed. Against Matt Schnell last time out, Hernandez marched forward all fight, backing Schnell against the fence to unload heavy hooks and uppercuts.
Defensively, there are real concerns with Hernandez’s porous defense. He gets hit often, absorbing over 4 significant strikes every round. His guard is often low and head stationary, allowing opponents to tag him frequently. This could be dangerous against the sniping accuracy of Taira. While not known as a wrestler, Hernandez does attempt 1.24 takedowns per round, but only completes them at 16%, well below average. He owns decent takedown against being taken down 65% of the time. Grappling is unlikely where Hernandez finds much success against Taira. He has only registered 0.3 submission attempts per 15 minutes, compared to Taira’s incredible 2.8 rate.
Tatsuro Taira vs. Carlos Hernandez Stats
| Taira | Hernandez | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 14-0-0 | 9-2-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 10:55 | 12:04 |
| Height | 5′ 7″ | 5′ 8″ |
| Weight | 125 lbs. | 125 lbs. |
| Reach | 70″ | 67″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Orthodox |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 3.23 | 5.51 |
| Striking Accuracy | 69% | 46% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 1.26 | 4.41 |
| Defense | 47% | 49% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 2.41 | 1.24 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 41% | 16% |
| Takedown Defense | 60% | 65% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 2.8 | 0.3 |
Tatsuro Taira vs. Carlos Hernandez Betting Pick
Comparing both fighters, Tatsuro Taira’s superior striking precision, grappling strength, and submission skills give him a distinct edge over Hernandez in this fight. His ability to control both standing and ground battles makes him an outstanding opponent; Hernandez may possess higher striking rates but their lower defense and grappling stats may not suffice against an all-around fighter like Taira. By studying their performances and stats we choose Tatsuro Taira due to his undefeated record combined with efficient striking and dominant grappling in this matchup.
Free Pick: Tatsuro Taira -515
Tatsuro Taira and Carlos Hernandez’s UFC Fight Night 233 flyweight bout promises to be an exciting contest, thanks to Taira’s comprehensive skill set in striking and grappling, proven track record, and extensive skill set across both striking and grappling disciplines. His comprehensive skill set has garnered him much support among pro handicapping experts who emphasize balanced fighting styles as the keystones to octagon success; though Hernandez certainly poses formidable competition; Taira’s overall prowess will likely triumph at UFC Fight Night 233!