Flyweights are running it back after a no-contest earlier this year, as Alex Perez takes on Sumudaerji Saturday night at UFC Fight Night: Nurmagomedov vs. Song in Shanghai, China.
An accidental low blow spoiled their first meeting in May, which saw Perez (26–10, 8–6 UFC) take the first round on two of three scorecards. He rode into that fight, hot on the heels of a first-round stoppage win against Charles Johnson at UFC 324 in January. Meanwhile, Sumudaerji (19–7, 6–4 UFC) picked up his third straight victory, a unanimous decision over Jesus Aguilar at UFC 326 in March.
Sumudaerji enters as a -218 moneyline favorite for the rematch on DraftKings Sportsbook. Perez is a +180 underdog, with the fight total set at O/U 2.5 rounds.
Perez vs. Sumudaerji Preview
Alex Perez (#11)
- 26–10 (8–6 UFC)
- 7–2 (T)KO
- 7–6 SUB
Considering how the first fight was going, a no-contest was perhaps the best thing that could have happened to Alex Perez. The 34-year-old American had taken Round 1 on the scorecards but got dropped — and nearly finished — in the following frame before absorbing the decisive low blow.
Known for his forward pressure and grappling prowess, Perez was struggling to get much of anything going in that initial encounter with Sumudaerji. Still, the former title challenger’s resume includes some of the toughest tests at 125 pounds, punctuated by a massive first-round stoppage win over flyweight gatekeeper Charles Johnson. Heading into Saturday, Perez will be eager to prove that he can make the necessary adjustments to get his hand raised.
Sumudaerji
- 19–7 (6–4 UFC)
- 13–0 (T)KO
- 1–6 SUB
Sumudaerji must have been kicking himself after squandering a near-victory by kicking Alex Perez in the groin. The “Tibetan Eagle” had seized full control of the bout by the second round, landing a knockdown on his way to a potential finish.
The Chinese southpaw, 30, employed his considerable seven-inch reach advantage to attack his opponent from range. He also showcased improved takedown defense, stuffing both of Perez’s entries. With where the last bout was heading, Sumudaerji could head into Saturday’s rematch with an additional layer of confidence.
Perez vs. Sumudaerji Pick, Best Bet
Alex Perez had no answer for Sumudaerji three months ago, but he should have a better understanding now. The former title challenger proved earlier this year that he can still hang with solid competition, and he should arrive on Saturday with a more developed game plan for the “Tibetan Eagle.”
Despite nearly recording a stoppage in their first bout, Sumudaerji has largely been a point fighter since joining the UFC; five of his six Octagon wins have come by decision. While Perez might not get his hand raised, banking on him to keep things competitive and win at least one round — as he did on two of three scorecards in their first fight — seems like a strong play for UFC Shanghai.
