Kyle Anthony

THE PLAY: Torrez Finney +136

This is going to be a wrestle heavy matchup and believe Torrez Finny has multiple advantages. One of the biggest advantages will be physicality. The guy is an absolute ball of muscle, built like a fridge full of dumbbells. He doesn't have a neck, it's like his shoulders just evolved into a head. Time after time we're seeing him lean on his strength bully opponents down and securing top position. Over his last 4 fights, including 2 appearances on Dana White's Contender Series, Finny landed 26 takedowns with relentless wrestling pressure. He's successfully smothered his opponents dictating the fight winning positionally banking rounds. On Saturday night Finny will be the far more explosive fighter and the overall better athlete. While Malkoun has 2 big red flags coming into this fight. We all know ring dust is real, the longer you're inactive the less shaper you'll be upon your return. At this point, Jacob hasn't fought in nearly 2 years. That's a lengthy layoff and no doubt will be a watered down version of himself. Now the reason he's been out is due to an injury he suffered during training awhile back. Had a serious back injury which required surgery and a ton of recovery time. There was a point the doctors informed him he'd struggle walking again and even contemplated retirement at just 30 years old. Over those 2 years Malkoun was able to heal but I don't expect him to be in peak physical condition. For wrestlers there's a lot of pressure on your back while grappling and Finny is going to capitalize in those situations. Malkoun was already the less explosive fighter who's slower on the feet and this will only assist Finny in his gameplan. Striking wise, I'd give the advantage to Torrez as well. Can get wild at times but will use big overhands to crash the pocket to attempt a takedown. He's the harder hitter between the two and will lean on his strength in the clinch or up against the fence. Believe Finny will find control time, win positionally and bank rounds on the judges scorecards. Plus, all the finishing equity is on Finny landing a big shot on the feet. Give me Torrez Finny with multiple advantages and at plus money!