Jacob “El Tortuga” Pais (5-2-0), the former Fight For It 155lb Amateur Champion, steps back into the cage following a significant setback. His last bout, on September 14, 2024, ended in a doctor stoppage due to a dislocated elbow against Dee Reddick. While Pais is eager to reclaim his place in the division, questions remain about his recovery. Has the three-month layoff been enough for him to regain full strength and form?
Despite the concerns, Pais’s credentials are undeniable. With 60% of his victories coming by submission and 20% by KO/TKO, he remains a proven finisher with the tools to put opponents away. However, the pressure will be on to show that his grappling-heavy style hasn’t been hampered by the injury and that his confidence remains intact after his recent setback.
Tyler Kirkpatrick (5-4-0), on the other hand, comes into this fight with momentum on his side. Riding a two-fight winning streak, including a unanimous decision over Brandon Holloway on the same night Pais suffered his injury, Kirkpatrick appears to be peaking at the right time. With 20% of his wins by KO/TKO and 20% by submission, he brings a balanced skill set and the durability to test Pais’s readiness for a return to competition.
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