Yair Rodriguez vs Josh Emmett at UFC 284

YAIR RODRIGUEZ VS JOSH EMMETT FACTS

When is UFC 284? Sunday 12 February, 2023 - 01:00 start (UK)

Where is UFC 284? RAC Arena, Perth (Australia)

Where can I get tickets for UFC 284?

What channel is UFC 284 on? BT Sport 1

Where can I stream UFC 284? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website

YAIR RODRIGUEZ VS JOSH EMMETT LOWDOWN

Yair Rodriguez (14-3(1)) makes a quick turnaround for his standards. He last fought seven months ago against Brian Ortega but, T-City injured his shoulder in the first round which was gutting for everyone. It was a technical knockout yet hollow win. Prior to that he lost a unanimous decision in an incredible battle with Max Holloway (2021).

After getting his skull cracked by Jeremy Stephens (2018), Josh Emmett (18-2) has recovered to go on the best run of his career. He took a year to heal but bounced back with knockouts over Michael Johnson (2019) and Mirsad Bektic (2019) and unanimous decisions over Shane Burgos (2020) and Dan Ige (2021). Now, he is coming off a split decision with Calvin Kattar to set up this interim title fight.

YAIR RODRIGUEZ VS JOSH EMMETT PREDICTION

These guys duke it out for the interim strap while Alexander Volkanovski has a date with the lightweight champion at the top of the card. This belt does not mean anything but it guarantees them a shot at unifying the featherweight title and it is a fascinating match up.

They are both electrifying yet contrasting strikers. Emmett is a compact and technical boxer with a ferocious right hand whereas Rodriguez can hurt you anywhere from anywhere with anything.

Rodriguez has a complete arsenal with all eight limbs which makes him very hard to prepare for. However, his aggressive an unorthodox style leaves his chin open and that right hand of Emmett only needs one connection. So, Rodriguez needs to play this smart and respect the power discrepancy.

If he uses his range and can keep moving while keeping Emmett at a distance with his kicks, he can inflict a lot of damage and break him down. Emmett will look to walk into range accepting damage to get in the pocket and unleash a knockout blow.

You cannot count Emmett out considering his power and the openings Rodriguez will leave especially in the later round however, as the majority of this will stay on the feet, you have to back the Mexican.

We expect him to disable Emmett’s legs while catching him off guard with kicks and knees down the middle. Emmett should drag this to the bell and is the smart pick considering the odds.

Prediction: Rodriguez via Decision -