Sports
UFC Macau Bantamweight Finale: Baergeng Jieleyisi vs. SuYoung Yu
A highly anticipated bantamweight matchup is set to take place at UFC Macau this weekend, featuring Baergeng Jieleyisi and SuYoung Yu. This encounter marks the final of Season 3 of the Road to UFC in the men’s bantamweight division, and the stakes could not be higher as both fighters compete for a coveted UFC contract.
Baergeng Jieleyisi enters the fight on a remarkable four-fight winning streak. The Chinese fighter has demonstrated his prowess in the tournament with decisive victories, including a second-round submission in the quarterfinals and a unanimous decision in the semifinals against Tokitaka Nakanishi. The 26-year-old heads into this bout with a professional record of 19 wins and 5 losses, supported by a wrestling background that includes three national championships. His grappling skills, characterized by strong top control and dominant back control, make him a formidable opponent on the ground.
Standing opposite Jieleyisi is South Korean fighter SuYoung Yu, who holds a professional record of 13 wins, 3 losses, and 2 no-contests. Yu has also shown impressive form, winning his last two matches in Season 3 of the Road to UFC, including a split decision victory over Daermisi Zhawupasi. The fighter, known for his striking capabilities and ‘Yoo-Jitsu’, a version of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, will rely on his ability to adapt during high-pressure situations.
Early betting odds, as provided by DraftKings, have SuYoung Yu as the slight favorite with -148, while Baergeng Jieleyisi stands at +124. The line for the fight going over 2.5 rounds is set at -188, with under 2.5 rounds at +145.
As both fighters prepare to square off, there is much speculation about whether their grappling techniques will neutralize each other, leading to a striking duel, or if one will successfully impose their ground game. Analysts suggest Jieleyisi’s capacity for mixing striking and grappling might give him the edge, while Yu’s precision and experience under pressure could steer the fight in his favor.
UFC Macau is not just about this headlining fight, with the main event featuring Petr Yan and Deiveson Figueiredo. However, all eyes remain glued to the Jieleyisi-Yu matchup, as it promises to add fresh talent to the already competitive bantamweight division in UFC.