Saturday’s UFC 316 prelims feature a women’s flyweight bout between Ariane da Silva and Wang Cong. Da Silva, a seasoned Brazilian striker with a penchant for submissions, faces China’s rising finisher, Cong. Da Silva aims to halt a two-fight losing streak and maintain her ranking, while Cong looks to solidify her position in the division with another impressive performance. Continue reading to get my Ariane da Silva vs Wang Cong prediction.
Ariane da Silva vs Wang Cong Preview
Ariane da Silva enters the octagon with a professional record of 17-10. Known for her aggressive striking and submission skills, she has secured 6 wins by knockout and 4 by submission. However, recent performances have raised concerns. She suffered a submission loss to Jasmine Jasudavicius and a unanimous decision loss to Karine Silva in her last two fights. Here, she will need to fend off both striking and grappling from a versatile opponent to avoid a third straight loss.
Wang Cong, with a record of 7-1, has quickly made a name for herself in the UFC. A former Sanda and kickboxing champion, she brings a diverse striking arsenal to the cage. Cong has achieved 2 wins by knockout and 2 by submission in her career. Her most notable victory was a 62-second knockout against Victoria Leonardo, showcasing her striking prowess. Despite a setback against Gabriella Fernandes, where she was submitted in the second round, Cong rebounded with a unanimous decision win over Bruna Brasil in February, demonstrating composure.
Each fighter’s secondary skills could play a pivotal role in this fight’s outcome. Da Silva’s Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu background offers submission threats, while Cong’s clinch work and trips provide her with options to control the fight’s pace and position.
Betting Insights
- Moneyline: Wang Cong -550, Ariane da Silva +400
- Over/Under: Over 2.5 rounds sits around -145, Under 2.5 rounds is +114
Bettors should consider the momentum and recent performances of both fighters. Da Silva’s recent losses highlight potential vulnerabilities, especially against aggressive opponents. In contrast, Cong’s striking accuracy and power make her a formidable opponent. Her ability to adapt and control the fight’s tempo could be the deciding factor.
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Ariane da Silva vs Wang Cong Prediction
Early phase: Da Silva will likely attempt to establish her striking range with combinations and low kicks. However, Cong’s reach and counter-striking ability may neutralize da Silva’s offense, forcing her to adjust her strategy.
Mid-fight adjustments: Anticipating Cong’s striking advantage, da Silva may seek to clinch or take the fight to the ground. However, Cong’s training and defensive skills could thwart these attempts, keeping the fight standing where she holds the advantage.
Decisive sequence: As the fight progresses, Cong’s striking accuracy and power are expected to wear down da Silva. A well-timed combination or counter-strike could lead to a stoppage in the second round.
Prediction: Wang Cong by TKO in Round 2. Her striking proficiency, combined with da Silva’s recent defensive lapses, suggests a finish is likely. While the moneyline offers limited value, bettors might find better returns by exploring props for Cong to win inside the distance or by knockout.
