“Hot Chocolate” Danny Roberts returns this weekend when he takes on UFC veteran Francisco Trinaldo. In a welterweight bout. This is an exciting match-up for both men, who are full of talent.
Danny “Hot Chocolate” Roberts
Fighting out of Liverpool, England, Danny has quickly become a UK fan favourite in the UFC. With a pro record of 18-5, Roberts holds many wins over top competition. Finishing 13 of his wins, with eight KO/TKO’s and five by way of submission. Danny is always dangerous, with high output and constant pressure. A slick striker who mixes it up well, Danny uses his rangy jab to set up other strikes. A fast kicker, Roberts doesn’t discriminate and will chop the legs, work the body and punish the head as the fight goes on. More than just a standup fighter. He can hold his own on the ground, proving that when in his UFC, he won via Triangle Choke.
Sharing the octagon with UFC competition since 2015, this fight will be his 12th in the organisation’s cage.
Never taking an easy fight, Roberts’ career hasn’t always been plain sailing. Now on a two-fight winning streak, “Hot Chocolate” looks to extend this and make a push for the top 15 against Trinaldo. Now 34, Danny will be looking to use all his prior experience to gain wins and put himself in the best possible position going forward.
Francisco Trinaldo
Both a UFC and MMA veteran. Trinaldo is a stalwart of the organisation. Formerly competing at lightweight, Francisco has recently made the jump to welterweight. Taking on a who’s who of top lightweights, he’s no stranger to the spotlight. With 35 fights, his record currently stands at 27-8. Winning 14 via finish. With power in his hand, he’s won nine via KO/TKO. Also well versed on the ground with a BJJ brown belt, he’s submitted his opponents on five occasions. Standing at 5’8, Trinaldo is the shorter fighter, but he’s used to this. Using big power strikes, Trinaldo is always looking for the kill. He Uses his power to set up takedowns and other lands.
Now 43, Francisco will be entering the final phase of his career. Looking to make one final push up the divisional rankings, an impressive win against Roberts would be a great start. Stepping into the octagon for the 25th time, regardless of what happens, the Brazilian can look back on his career with pride.
The Fight
With both the height and reach advantage, Danny will be looking to pump the jab and chop the legs to keep the Brazilian’s power at bay. At 6ft 1in and a 74in reach, the height difference will be 5in and reach will be 4in. Trinaldo’s key in this fight will be to get inside. Moving his head and setting the big shots up by threatening the takedown. Trying to stop Danny’s movement with heavy leg kicks and stay active to prevent Roberts from getting in his groove.
A great fight, no matter whom you’re rooting for. It’s certainly one to watch on an action-packed card. Both men are on the periphery of the top 15. A win here could set them up for a huge fight next time out.
UFC 274
A blockbuster card. UK fans can watch the prelims and main card on BT Sport. Starting at 1 am Sunday. Roberts’ fight will take place in the prelims. Currently scheduled for the third fight. Making his walk around 2 am. If you can’t stay up this late, you can catch up on the action the next day via the BT Sport app.
Does Danny Roberts get it done against a veteran like Trinaldo?
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Featured image credits to Embed from Getty Images
