Prior to each UFC card, Jay Primetown takes a close look at debuting fighters. In the latest installment, we look at former TUF Brazil and Shooto veteran Felipe Olivieri as he takes on American Tony Martin at UFC on Fox 18. Felipe Olivieri Hometown: Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Age: 30 Height: N/A Reach: N/A Weight Class: Lightweight Camp: Team Nova Uniao Career Record: 14-4 Key Wins: None Key Losses: None Background The former TUF Brazil 2 contestant comes out of Brazil’s premiere camp, Nova Uniao. He’s a former Brazilian muay thai champion as well as a boxing champion in the states of Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. Strengths
- Big for the division
- Above average athlete
- Good Muay Thai striker
- Aggressive and throws with conviction
- One punch knockout power
- Heavy ground and pound
Weaknesses
- Needs to improve takedown defense
- Footwork needs improvement
- Questionable chin
- How will he fare when not able to score takedowns?
Matchup with Tony Martin A surprisingly compelling matchup on the fight pass prelims sees Brazilian Felipe Olivieri making his debut against Tony Martin. Both of these fighters are big lightweights and it has the makings of an exciting fight. Martin has been successful with his submission game with all seven of his victories coming by tapout. Martin’s ability to work in the grappling game should provide a good challenge for Olivieri in his debut fight. Olivieri is hulking lightweight with heavy power and a nice submission game as well. Olivieri has been susceptible to power strikes in the past, but that shouldn’t be a major concern against Martin. Ultimately I’d look for Olivieri to batter Martin on the feet and could be threatened by subs from Martin during the first round. If Olivieri can make it out of the first round, this is his fight to win as Martin’s endurance is subpar. Look for Olivieri to turn it on as the fight wears on and scores a stoppage win in the second round. UFC Ceiling Felipe Olivieri’s physical attributes certainly stand out. He’s a big, physical lightweight with heavy hands. From a physique standpoint, he can compete in the UFC right away. He is already 30 years of age with a questionable chin and takedown defense, so it’s difficult to see him improving too much. He does come from a quality camp in Novo Uniao, so I don’t expect him to look outclassed in his stint in the organization. I think he’s an entertaining fighter that will have a few fights in the UFC, but will be exposed by superior grapplers as he faces better competition in the division. Fight Film Check out Felipe Olivieri in some of his most recent fights: Felipe Olivieri vs. Cesar Augusto Felipe Olivieri vs. Paulo Silva