Match Analysis: Cristian Pérez vs Manoel Sousa – Prediction
Match Details
- Date: 2025-08-26
- Time: 12:00 AM UTC
- Location: Dana White's Contender Series, Season 9, Week 3 (venue not explicitly stated)
Game Overview
Cristian Pérez (13-1) and Manoel Sousa (12-1) face off in a highly anticipated lightweight bout on Dana White's Contender Series. Pérez is known for his dynamic striking and grappling versatility but has shown inconsistencies and cardio issues. Sousa is a powerful, physically imposing fighter with solid defensive skills and significant finishing ability, including multiple second-round finishes.
Key Factors to Consider
- Pérez is a fast starter with good submissions and striking variety but is prone to defensive lapses, exposed chin, and poor takedown defense. Sousa has more experience against high-level competition (LFA, Bellator, PFL) and is known for his pressure, knockout power, and grappling control, especially in grappling exchanges.
- This is their first meeting in MMA. Sousa holds a slight edge overall due to experience and fight style, which counters Pérez's versatility with better positional control and power.
- No reported injuries for either fighter going into the match.
- Pérez has not fought in almost two years and is coming off a loss in Karate Combat. Sousa is the fresher fighter with continuous MMA activity and experience against UFC-level opponents. Both fighters are highly motivated for UFC contracts.
- Both fighters seek to secure a UFC contract, making this a high-stakes, highly motivated matchup. Sousa’s more consistent recent performances and power give him a psychological edge.
Odds and Predictions
| Category | Odds | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Moneyline | Cristian Perez: +240, Manoel Sousa: -300 | Manoel Sousa | ★★★★☆ 75% |
| Over/under | Over 1.5: -215, Under 1.5: +175 | Over 1.5 rounds | ★★★☆☆ 65% |
Top EV Betting Odds
Discover the best value bets based on our EV analysis.
| Market | EV Pick |
|---|---|
| Moneyline | Manoel Sousa -8% |
| Spread | N/A |
| Over/Under | Over 1.5 -12% |
🔥 Best Value Pick: Manoel Sousa at -8% EV | Suggested Bet Size: 0% (Kelly Criterion)
Predicted Outcome
Manoel Sousa is favored to win by TKO in round three due to superior power, control in grappling exchanges, and defensive soundness. Pérez's versatility and explosiveness make it potentially competitive but Sousa’s strengths are expected to prevail.
Predicted Score: Sousa wins by TKO Round 3