UFC 291: Stephen Thompson vs Michel Pereira will go down this weekend at UFC 291. The two welterweights will compete on the main card before the Dustin Poirier vs Justin Gaethje fight. So ahead of the contest, we preview the fight and give our prediction. Follow UFC 291: Poirier vs Gaethje 2 LIVE Streaming updates with Insidesport.IN. 

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Poirier and Gaethje will undoubtedly steal all the headlines heading into fight week. However, the card is full of exciting and close matchups. One such is the Thompson vs Pereira fight. So here’s what we think will happen when the two fight each other.

UFC 291: Stephen Thompson vs Michel Pereira Preview, Prediction, and Odds

UFC 291: Stephen Thompson vs Michel Pereira Preview and Prediction

Thompson and Pereira both come into the fight on the back of wins. Moreover, Thompson is number seven in the world while Pereira is number 15. Therefore, a lot could be riding on this fight for both fighters.

If we look at the physical attributes, Thompson stands at 6’0”, has a 75” punching reach, and a 42” leg reach. Pereira, on the other hand, stands at 6’1”, has a 73” punching reach, and a 42” leg reach. Therefore, there is nothing to separate the two in terms of their physical attributes.

If we compare the numbers, Thompson lands 4.2 significant strikes per minute at 49% accuracy. In addition, he gets 0.27 takedowns per fifteen minutes at 41% accuracy. Michel Pereira, on the other hand, lands 5.09 significant strikes per minute at 56% accuracy and gets 1.58 takedowns per fifteen minutes at a 55% accuracy. Therefore, the stats are in favor of the Brazilian.

Our prediction: Michel Pereira beats Stephen Thompson by decision.

UFC 291: Stephen Thompson vs Michel Pereira latest betting odds

According to the official betting odds of the UFC, Stephen Thompson goes into the fight as the favorite. The American is a -165 favorite while Michel Pereira is a +140 underdog. However, if you are looking to bet on the fight, we encourage you to bet responsibly.

What do you make of the Stephen Thompson vs Michel Pereira fight? Who do you think will come out on top?

Follow UFC 291: Poirier vs Gaethje 2 LIVE Streaming updates with Insidesport.IN.