MMA Match Preview: Vicente Luque (23-10-1) vs. Kevin Holland (27-13-0, 1 NC)

Fight Overview

The UFC 316 main card features an exciting welterweight showdown between Vicente Luque, a dangerous finisher with knockout power and submission skills, and Kevin Holland, a fan-favorite known for his unpredictable striking and relentless pace. Luque enters the fight coming off a dominant submission win over Themba Gorimbo, while Holland is looking to build momentum after a decision victory over Gunnar Nelson. Both fighters are known for their aggressive styles, making this a potential Fight of the Night contender. Luque has stated that he is hungry for a title shot, and a win over Holland could push him back into the top 10 rankings. Meanwhile, Holland is aiming to re-establish himself as a contender after a mixed run of performances.

Fighter Profiles & Key Stats

Vicente Luque (23-10-1) – “The Silent Assassin”

Age: 33

Height: 5’11”

Reach: 75.5″

Stance: Orthodox

Fighting Style: Muay Thai & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Recent Fights:

Win vs. Themba Gorimbo (Submission, Round 1) – UFC 310

Loss vs. Joaquin Buckley (KO, Round 2) – UFC 303

Win vs. Rafael dos Anjos (Decision) – UFC 298

Analysis: Luque is a dangerous finisher, holding the second-most finishes in UFC welterweight history (14). His ability to knock out or submit opponents makes him a threat in any fight. He has stated that he is seeking an early finish against Holland to prove he is still a title contender.

Kevin Holland (27-13-0, 1 NC) – “Trailblazer”

Age: 32

Height: 6’3″

Reach: 81″

Stance: Orthodox

Fighting Style: Kickboxing & Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Recent Fights:

Win vs. Gunnar Nelson (Decision) – UFC London

Loss vs. Reinier de Ridder (Submission, Round 1) – UFC 312

Win vs. Santiago Ponzinibbio (KO, Round 3) – UFC 305

Analysis: Holland is a high-volume striker with unpredictable movement and knockout power. His ability to engage in wild exchanges makes him a fan favorite, but his takedown defense (55%) could be tested against Luque’s grappling.

Fight Breakdown & Strategy

Striking Battle

Holland has better reach and volume striking, but Luque’s power advantage could be decisive.

If Holland keeps the fight at range, he could outpoint Luque over three rounds.

Grappling & Takedowns

Luque has elite submission skills, averaging 1.2 takedowns per fight.

Holland’s takedown defense has been inconsistent, making him vulnerable to Luque’s ground game.

Cardio & Durability

Luque has proven endurance, making him dangerous in later rounds.

Holland has never been knocked out, proving his durability.

FIGHT ODDS

Vicente Luque                   + 215

Kevin Holland                    – 265

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Friday, June 6, 2025