MMA Preview: Kevin Borjas (9-3) vs. Ronaldo Rodriguez (17-2)
The flyweight bout between Kevin Borjas and Ronaldo Rodriguez at UFC on ESPN 64 is set to kick off the main card with fireworks.
Fight Details
- Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025
- Time: Main card starts at 7:00 PM ET; Borjas and Rodriguez are expected to walk out around 7:05 PM ET.
- Venue: Arena CDMX, Mexico City, Mexico
- Broadcast: ESPN2, ESPN+
Fighter Overview
Ronaldo Rodriguez (17-2)
The 25-year-old Mexican fighter, nicknamed “Lazy Boy,” is riding a seven-fight winning streak, including back-to-back victories in the UFC over Denys Bondar and Ode Osbourne. Rodriguez is known for his well-rounded skill set, combining technical striking with a solid ground game. Fighting in front of his home crowd in Mexico City, Rodriguez will be motivated to deliver a dominant performance.
Key Stats:
- Height: 5’6″
- Reach: 65″
- Significant Strikes Landed Per Minute: 4.12
- Striking Accuracy: 48%
- Takedown Average: 2.8 per 15 minutes
Kevin Borjas (9-3)
The 25-year-old Peruvian fighter, nicknamed “El Gallo Negro,” is still searching for his first UFC win after suffering back-to-back losses to Joshua Van and Alessandro Costa. Borjas is known for his aggressive striking and flashy techniques, often drawing comparisons to WEC-era Jose Aldo. With his back against the wall, Borjas will be looking to make a statement in this fight.
Key Stats:
- Height: 5’5″
- Reach: 65″
- Significant Strikes Landed Per Minute: 4.92
- Striking Accuracy: 40%
- Submission Attempts: 1.1 per 15 minutes
Matchup Analysis
Ronaldo Rodriguez’s Strengths
- Well-Rounded Game: Rodriguez’s ability to mix striking and grappling makes him a versatile fighter.
- Momentum: Riding a seven-fight winning streak, Rodriguez enters the fight with confidence and consistency.
- Home Crowd Advantage: Fighting in Mexico City provides Rodriguez with the support of a passionate home crowd.
Kevin Borjas’s Strengths
- Aggressive Striking: Borjas’s ability to push the pace and land significant strikes makes him a threat on the feet.
- Flashy Techniques: With flying knees and liver shots, Borjas brings unpredictability to his striking game.
- Underdog Mentality: With his back against the wall, Borjas is motivated to deliver a standout performance.
Key Matchups
- Striking Battle: Borjas’s aggressive striking will be tested against Rodriguez’s technical and defensive striking.
- Grappling vs. Striking: Rodriguez’s grappling could neutralize Borjas’s striking if the fight goes to the ground.
- Cardio and Altitude: The high altitude of Mexico City could impact both fighters’ cardio, but Rodriguez may have the edge due to his familiarity with the conditions.
