UFC Fight Night is set to take place at the Accor Arena in Paris on Saturday, featuring an exciting lightweight main event between Renato Moicano and Benoit Saint Denis, both known for their finishing abilities and vying for a spot in the official UFC top 10.
Moicano, with a record of 19 wins, 5 losses, and 1 no contest, has been part of the UFC for a decade and is currently on a hot streak, having won three consecutive fights—the best run he has had since his initial trio of bouts in the promotion. His recent performances have captivated fans not only through his fighting skills but also via his spirited post-fight interviews, where he expresses his genuine emotions and thoughts. “Be yourself, but be a little louder. People will pay attention,” Moicano advised, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in his persona.
Saint Denis, who boasts a record of 13 wins and 2 losses with 1 no contest, is making history as the first French fighter, apart from Ciryl Gane, to headline a UFC event in Paris. Known as “The God of War,” Saint Denis has achieved victory in all his fights by stoppage. After suffering a knockout loss to former interim lightweight champion Dustin Poirier, he reflected on the experience, stating the importance of being fully prepared for every fight, highlighting how rapidly his career has progressed and the challenges that come with it.
The co-main event showcases another notable French talent, Nassourdine Imavov, who aims to continue his successful middleweight run against Brendan Allen. Imavov is coming off a contentious stoppage win over veteran Jared Cannonier that raised questions among fans regarding the referee’s decision. Nonetheless, Imavov has only lost once in his last seven fights, while Allen remains undefeated in his last seven.
The undercard features several promising European fighters alongside a few American athletes looking to secure much-needed wins. Joanderson Brito is set to fight William Gomis in a featherweight matchup, with American Bryan Battle taking on Kevin Jousset at welterweight. Veteran Matt Frevola will open the main card against rising star Fares Ziam in lightweight action.
As for the fight card and latest odds, here are the key matchups:
Main Event
Benoit Saint Denis -290 vs. Renato Moicano +235 (Lightweight)
Co-Main Event
Nassourine Imavov -210 vs. Brendan Allen +175 (Middleweight)
Other Notable Fights
Joanderson Brito -300 vs. William Gomis +240 (Featherweight)
Bryan Battle -160 vs. Kevin Jousset +135 (Welterweight)
Morgan Charriere -700 vs. Gabriel Miranda +500 (Featherweight)
Fares Ziam -125 vs. Matt Frevola +105 (Lightweight)
UFC Fight Night Viewing Details
Date: September 28
Start Time: 3 p.m. ET (Main Card)
Location: Accor Arena, Paris
Broadcast: ESPN+
Prediction
In the main event, while Benoit Saint Denis has shown some defensive vulnerabilities, he is expected to pose a significant challenge to Renato Moicano with his aggressive fighting style. Saint Denis combines power punches with effective wrestling and submission skills, making him a consistent finishing threat. Despite Moicano’s strong submission skills and defensive capability, his age and tendency to be hit may lead to his defeat, with Saint Denis favored to win by knockout in the second round.