Preview: UFC on ESPN 63 Prelims

Bantamweights

Ramon Taveras (10-2, 1-0 UFC) vs. Davey Grant (15-7, 6-6 UFC)

ODDS: Taveras (-130), Grant (+110)

This should be a fun scrap, which is the typical modus operandi for Florida’s Taveras. That reputation for action has helped mask the fact that Taveras has gotten by on some good luck to get to this point. He rode a middling level of competition to the Contender Series, got a second chance at a contract after a loss to Serhiy Sidey was deemed to be an early stoppage and then got a bit lucky to earn the decision in a rematch against Sidey in his UFC debut in January. Taveras is still an engaging fighter with some fast hands, and he should have a willing dance partner for a battle in Grant.

Grant has carved out a nice career for himself, which wasn’t necessarily a guarantee. After a stint on “The Ultimate Fighter” in 2013, Grant was essentially a non-factor for half a decade thanks to various injuries. However, he has since staked out a spot as a perennial tough out through his persistence and durability. Grant is rarely the prettiest fighter from a technical standpoint, but he’s comfortable enough in his awkwardness that he has proven to be an effective finisher who can catch his opponent unawares. These two should just throw down for three rounds, and at this point, Grant has more poise along with the deeper toolkit. The pick is Grant via decision.

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