Benoit Saint-Denis is well-acquainted with conflict. It’s been his profession for the past decade, both in and out of the octagon. Fortunately, the battles he now wages occur within the UFC Octagon. He’s set to face the in-form Brazilian Renato Moicano in the main event of UFC Paris. He aims to demonstrate to his home country and UFC fans worldwide why he’s known as “The God of War.”
Saint-Denis last fought Dustin Poirier at UFC 299 earlier this year. Known for his aggression in his fights, ‘The God of War’ never took a step back in the fight. Ultimately, it was that same aggression that cost him the fight, as he lost via TKO in the second round. On ESPN MMA’s panel discussion, UFC veteran Anthony Smith believes his aggression won’t help the French fighter this time either.
I think Renato Moicano gets it done. I think Renato Moicano has so much experience, he trains with so many high-level athletes that, that aggression [Saint-Denis’] isn’t going to make him retract.
Anthony Smith via ESPN MMA on YouTube
The former French special forces soldier, known for never backing down, is ready for another battle in the trenches. Moicano enters the fight after a TKO win against Jalin Turner at UFC 300. In a bizarre fight, the Brazilian went down in the first round but avoided being finished by Turner, who was seeking a walk-off KO. He kept his composure and prevailed, showcasing his veteran experience.
This was what Anthony Smith was alluding to. Nevertheless, this is not an easy money fight for either of the fighters who look to fight bigger names in the future. As a result, he faces a tough challenge ahead. Saint-Denis lands 58.4 percent of significant strikes in UFC lightweight competition, the third-highest rate in the division’s history. Only time tell if he can overcome Moicano with that.
Renato Moicano vs. Benoit Saint-Denis comes down to grappling believes Paul Felder
Soon after Anthony Smith picked Renato Moicano to win, Paul Felder felt one aspect of the fight was truly important. Moicano, a Brazilian jiu-jitsu black belt, has demonstrated his submission skills throughout his career. He has 10 submission victories, which shows his ability to control and finish fights on the mat.
Paul Felder believes Renato Moicano vs. Benoit Saint-Denis comes down to grappling (via Imago)A former French special forces soldier, Saint-Denis combines raw strength with relentless pressure, often seeking to overpower his opponents. His pressure and ground-and-pound abilities are key factors in his success inside the octagon. Both fighters excel on the ground, and Felder believes this aspect of the fight will play a critical role.
Really, ultimately I think it’s going to come down to the grappling. I think it’s going to come down to the jiu-jitsu and who can implement their game plan when it hits the mats.
Paul Felder via ESPN MMA on YouTube
Felder emphasizes the importance of stamina. Grappling exchanges can drain a fighter’s energy quickly. The fighter who can maintain control on the ground and manage their cardio will have a clear advantage in the fight. With their ground game in the spotlight, fans should expect a highly tactical and physical battle.
