Date: February 8, 2025 Venue: Qudos Bank Arena, Sydney, Australia Weight Class: Bantamweight (135 lbs) Event: UFC 312: Du Plessis vs. Strickland 2
Fighter Profiles:
Colby Thicknesse
- Record: 7-0-0
- Nickname: “Slickness”
- Age: 25 years old
- Height: 5’9″ (175 cm)
- Reach: 70″ (178 cm)
- Gym: Freestyle Fighting Gym
- Notable Achievements: Thicknesse has been undefeated in his professional career, showcasing a well-rounded skill set with 3 wins by knockout and 4 wins by submission. He has captured titles at both bantamweight and featherweight in the amateur ranks1.
Aleksandre Topuria
- Record: 5-1-0
- Nickname: “El Cazador”
- Age: 29 years old
- Height: 5’7″ (170 cm)
- Reach: 70″ (178 cm)
- Gym: Climent Club
- Notable Achievements: Topuria has a 100% finishing rate across his five victories, with all wins coming inside the distance. He is the older brother of current UFC Featherweight Champion Ilia Topuria1.
Fight Analysis:
This bout features two highly skilled fighters with contrasting styles. Colby Thicknesse, nicknamed “Slickness,” is known for his aggressive fighting style and versatility1. His ability to mix striking and grappling has made him a dangerous opponent in the bantamweight division.
On the other hand, Aleksandre Topuria, nicknamed “El Cazador,” is a well-rounded fighter with a focus on technical striking and submissions. Topuria’s undefeated record speaks to his ability to control fights and find openings for his strikes and submissions1.
What to Expect:
This fight promises to be an exciting clash of styles. Thicknesse will look to use his striking to keep Topuria at a distance and potentially secure a knockout victory1. Topuria, however, will aim to use his technical skills and versatility to take the fight to the ground and work for a submission or control the fight.
Stylistic Matchup:
The stylistic matchup between these two fighters is intriguing. Thicknesse’s aggressive striking will be tested against Topuria’s technical prowess and well-rounded skill set1. Both fighters have shown the ability to adapt and improve, making this bout unpredictable and thrilling.
Colby Thicknesse + 260
Aleksandre Topuria – 385
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, February 7, 2025
