Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval 12/16/23 – Top-rated sports picks are what every bettor hopes for when analyzing upcoming UFC matchups. On December 16th, 2023 at UFC 296, we have an exciting flyweight title bout between the current champion Alexandre Pantoja and the number one contender Brandon Royval. The fight takes place at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas with the main card starting at 10:00 PM ET.
Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval 12/16/23 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 16, 2023 at 10:00 PM ET |
| Where: | T-Mobile Arena, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
Alexandre “The Cannibal” Pantoja Analysis
Alexandre Pantoja comes into this fight with an impressive 26-5 record. He’s currently riding a 3-fight win streak that includes victories over Moreno, Perez, and Royval. Pantoja is a very well-rounded fighter, but does his best work by mixing in takedowns to complement his striking. He lands an accurate 4.41 significant strikes per minute while only absorbing 3.81 per minute thanks to solid head movement and footwork. His striking defense overall stands at 51%. On the ground is where Pantoja truly excels, averaging 1.75 takedowns per 15 minutes with a 44% accuracy rate. He does an excellent job closing distance and finishing takedowns against the cage and in open space.
Once on the mat, Pantoja is extremely aggressive working to advance positions and lock up submissions or ground and pound opportunities. He also showcases great takedown defense at 66% himself, allowing him to keep fights standing when he chooses to. Pantoja’s last win came against Moreno via unanimous decision after a hard fought 5 rounds. He was relentless hunting takedowns which led to over 7 minutes of control time on the ground. The grappling and top pressure neutralized Moreno’s potent offense over the 25 minutes.
Brandon “Raw Dawg” Royval Analysis
Brandon Royval enters this title fight with a 15-6 record and very well-rounded MMA skillset. He currently owns 3 UFC wins including victories over Nicolau, Schnell and Bontorin. Royval first made a name for himself on Dana White’s Contender Series where he scored a vicious knockout that earned his contract. Since joining the UFC, Royval has really improved his wrestling skills to complement his always dangerous striking and submission attacks. On the feet, he lands an output of 3.45 significant strikes per minute with solid 38% striking accuracy. His defensive skills are also on point, avoiding 50% of the significant strikes attempted against him.
Brandon Royval’s wrestling metrics sit lower at 0.66 takedowns over 15 minutes, but his takedown defense stands at a respectable 39%. Where Royval truly excels is on the mat both offensively and defensively. He averages 2.3 submission attempts per 15 minutes, demonstrating very slick and dangerous jiu-jitsu. From guard or in transitions, Royval is a constant submission threat. He also has excellent scrambling skills, regularly reversing position or sweeping opponents while defending takedowns. He won his last fight against Nicolau less than 3 minutes into the first round via guillotine choke after threatening with multiple submission attempts.
Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval Stats
| Pantoja | Royval | |
| Wins/Losses/Draws | 26-5-0 | 15-6-0 |
| Average Fight Time | 11:11 | 6:28 |
| Height | 5′ 5″ | 5′ 9″ |
| Weight | 125 lbs. | 125 lbs. |
| Reach | 67″ | 68″ |
| Stance | Orthodox | Southpaw |
| Strikes Landed per Min. | 4.41 | 3.45 |
| Striking Accuracy | 48% | 38% |
| Strikes Absorbed per Min. | 3.81 | 2.63 |
| Defense | 51% | 50% |
| Takedowns Average/15 min. | 1.75 | 0.66 |
| Takedown Accuracy | 44% | 100% |
| Takedown Defense | 66% | 39% |
| Submission Average/15 min. | 1.0 | 2.3 |
Alexandre Pantoja vs. Brandon Royval Betting Pick
Predicting the outcome of this bout requires considering both fighters’ strengths and recent performances. Pantoja’s experience and balanced skill set in striking and grappling make him a formidable opponent. His ability to maintain a high pace throughout the fight could pressure Royval, whose shorter average fight time suggests a preference for quick finishes. Royval’s impressive submission rate and reach advantage could pose challenges for Pantoja, but his lower takedown defense might be a vulnerability Pantoja can exploit.
Free Pick: Alexandre “The Cannibal” Pantoja -170
In conclusion, this UFC flyweight title bout between Alexandre Pantoja and Brandon Royval is set to be an exciting clash of styles and skills. While Royval’s aggressive approach and submission skills are noteworthy, Pantoja’s experience, striking precision, and grappling abilities are expected to prevail. This matchup is a must-watch for MMA fans, and for those seeking UFC free advice, the analysis leans towards Pantoja emerging victorious in what promises to be a captivating contest.