UFC Fight Night: Nicolau vs. Perez is rapidly approaching, with the card happening at UFC Apex in Las Vegas. The event serves as a prelude to the upcoming card of UFC 301, essentially acting as an appetizer for UFC fans everywhere. One of those fights features a fight between David Onama and Jonathan Pearce.
This featherweight matchup can become an all-out slugfest, for both MMA fighters specialize in striking their opponents. With that, it could also end quickly, for Onama and Pearce have lethal hands and feet.
Therefore, UFC fans shouldn’t turn the channel on this fight come Saturday. There’s plenty of reason to be invested in this bout, from the fighting styles to the sheer offense. Here’s a look at what Pearce and Onama offer for this Saturday.
The Tape on David Onama
For David Onama (11-2), the orthodox fighter is much more apt at striking his opponents than grappling. The 29-year-old isn’t afraid to take a swing, either. He’s great at striking his opponent and quickly guarding if needed. In turn, he can become a lethal fighter in any part of the fight.
Onama is also durable, taking strikes without even flinching. That’s a major part of why the featherweight has seen such success. In his fight against Nate Landwehr, the Ugandan fighter ate some hard strikes from Landwehr. Yet, he barely budged. Despite losing that fight via majority decision, he stood his ground and continued to strike. That durability will come into play on Saturday when he must defend himself against Pearce. That means plenty of counterpunching and striking.
The Tape on Jonathan Pearce
On the other hand, Jonathan Pearce (14-5) is more well-rounded offensively. “JSP” doesn’t care about mixing it up in the ring, using both his striking ability (5.60 significant strikes per minute) and grappling acumen (5.29 takedowns per 15 minutes). In essence, he’s balanced overwhelmingly.
That leaves him with a distinct advantage heading into the fight. Onama isn’t too keen on preventing takedowns (45% takedown defense), which means Pearce can rely on his grappling abilities to counterattack the Ugandan fighter.
The Verdict
Let’s be honest: David Onama is an absolute tank. He can eat strikes without flinching, making him a tough foe. Jonathan Pearce will have his hands full against the Ugandan fighter, who will showcase his aggressive style on Saturday.
However, Jonathan Pearce will be too versatile for Onama to handle. He’s an intelligent fighter who knows how to turn aggression against fighters. With his ability to switch up his offense, “JSP” should come home with a victory after Saturday.
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Jacob Walters is a boxing/MMA writer for Dice City Sports. You can follow him on X via @IceColdWJacob
