One would hope 5th time is the charm after 4 failed attempts at booking Alex Perez vs Matthew Christopher Schnell this past year, the fight is finally set to take place in the prelims of UFC 271. The two Americans go head to head in a 3-round flyweight bout at the Toyota Center in Houston, Texas.
The #4 ranked flyweight, Perez, has not fought in all of 2021. But he has 6 wins in his last 7 UFC fights losing only once to the current flyweight champion, Deiveson Figueiredo. Perez will look to get back into the title-contention picture with a win over Matt Schnell, who’s ranked #9 in the flyweight rankings by UFC. Schnell, who has 8 Octagon appearances under his belt, is looking to bounce back from his loss against Rogerio Bontorin in the bantamweight division.
UFC 271: Prelims, Alex Perez vs Matthew Christopher Schnell Stats
Stats | Alex Perez | Matthew Schnell |
---|---|---|
Wins | 24 | 15 |
Losses | 6 | 6 |
Height | 5 ft 6 in | 5 ft 8 in |
Division | Flyweight | Flyweight |
Reach | 65.5 in | 70 in |
Age | 29 years | 32 years |
Fight Breakdown and Analysis
In the most physically diminutive division of all, the flyweight division, physical advantages count for a lot. And Matt Schnell certainly has that going for him over his opponent. With a 4.5-inch reach advantage, he can strike easier, knowing that he has the range to defend himself against Perez’s experienced striking. Schnell also has a 74% finish rate to back his wins up. Danger, as he is known, has 9 submissions and 2 knockouts in his 15 wins.
However, Alex Perez is known to be a technically astute fighter with a calculated strategy in the Octagon and will fancy his chances against the lower-ranked opponent. Looking for his 25th win in his professional career, Perez will look upon an accomplished career entering its prime and will look to make the most of it. With a finish rate of 54%, Perez can pack a punch. Or carve out a submission, owing to his incredible ground game. This is not a fight you would want to miss.
UFC 271: Prelims Alex Perez vs Matthew Christopher Schnell Prediction: Alex Perez wins via submission.