Matthew Semelsberger vs. Jeremiah Wells Prediction: Can Wells Stay Perfect at UFC Fight Night?
Matthew Semelsberger vs. Jeremiah Wells Prediction: Can Wells Stay Perfect at UFC Fight Night?
The main card opens up tomorrow night with an interesting bout between two rising welterweights, Jeremiah Wells and Matthew Semelsberger. Both fighters are outside the welterweight rankings, but it is safe to say that a win here could set the winner into the top 15. In such a close fight, it only makes sense that the odds are dead even, as this fight is a pick 'em at -110 on either fighter. Wells is a perfect 3-0 in the UFC. Does that continue tomorrow night?
Semelsberger vs. Wells Start Time and Where to Watch
- Date: Saturday, April 22, 2023
- Game Time: 7:00 pm ET
- Where to Watch: ESPN+
Matthew Semelsberger vs. Jeremiah Wells Prediction
Wells, at 36 years of age, has had a late start in the UFC but has still managed to earn a perfect 3-0 record so far and is looking to make a name for himself. He has finished all three of his UFC victories, with a knockout of Warlley Alves, submission over Blood Diamond, and knockout of Court McGee on his record. Wells is a well-rounded fighter who fights out of Renzo Gracie Philly and is known for his finishing ability, thanks to his explosive wrestling and raw striking power.
Opponents often get caught cold early in fights, standing and watching while Wells unloads heavy blows. However, if he can't get an opponent down, his striking technique is a bit basic, even though he does have raw power. If an opponent can keep the fight on the feet and outwork him with strikes, that is the best path to victory against Wells. Unfortunately for Wells, Semelsberger can do just that.
Semelsberger is a bit younger at 30 years old and is 5-2 in the UFC, and his most recent outing was an impressive unanimous decision win over Jake Matthews. Semelsberger is an athletic fighter who actually had a background in football, playing D1 at Marist. This just proves that Semelberger has a naturally athletic ability that always goes a long way in combat sports. He has shown a good chin, quick hands, and an ability to throw combinations with accuracy.
When Semelsberger is at his best, he is the one pushing the action and putting the other fighter on their back foot. However, Semelsberger can struggle to get started at times and, without momentum, can become overly passive. He has started slow in fights, which tends to put his opponent in the driver's seat, so the key for him in this fight will be to come out strong, which he did against Matthews, which is a good sign for the future for him.
Wells has come out to a hot start in the UFC, going 3-0, but I think Semelsberger is a tough matchup for him. Semelsberger can eat a shot because he has a good chin, and Semelsberger also has good defensive wrestling, meaning he should be able to keep the fight standing. In that case, I have to take Semelsberger, as he is the more technical striker and should land cleaner in this fight. Semelberger's game feels more developed at this point in their careers, and I like him to outpoint Wells on his way to a decision win.
Matthew Semelsberger vs. Jeremiah Wells Pick
Pick: Matthew Semelsberger ML (-110) Bet $100 to collect $190 DraftKings has the best odds; click here to bet
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Article Author
Ben Rajavuori is a handicapper out of Minneapolis, MN. He has been creating sports content for almost four years now and is an expert in all things NFL, MLB, NBA, UFC, and NCAAB. Ben thrives on diving deep into statistics to find the best angle on every bet. You can follow him on Twitter @WeBeatTheSpread.