Ricky Turcios vs Benardo Sopaj - AI generated fight pick

Analyzing the matchup between Ricky Turcios and Benardo Sopaj, several factors lead to the prediction that Ricky Turcios is more likely to win. Turcios has a competitive fight record of 13 wins and 4 losses, indicating experience and resilience in the octagon. While his significant strike accuracy (38%) is lower than Sopaj’s (52%), Turcios compensates with better significant strike defense (55%) compared to Sopaj's (53%), suggesting a slight edge in defensive maneuvering against striking attacks. Additionally, Turcios possesses a longer reach in both arms (71 inches) and legs (38.5 inches) compared to Sopaj (66 inches arm reach and 37 inches leg reach). This reach advantage can play a crucial role in controlling the fight from a distance, maintaining composure, and avoiding Sopaj’s offensive attempts.

Experience-wise, Turcios has been in the UFC longer, making his debut in 2017, providing him with more exposure to high-level competition compared to Sopaj, who debuted in 2024. Despite Sopaj’s impressive takedown accuracy (75%), his takedown defense (50%) and overall MMA orientation may not be enough to overcome Turcios’ diverse experience and adaptability. Additionally, Sopaj’s last recorded fight resulted in a KO/TKO loss, possibly affecting his mental edge entering this bout. In contrast, Turcios’ long-term experience and higher-level competition history suggest he may better handle pressure. The cumulative assessment gives Turcios a favorable outlook in this matchup, with a confidence score of 80%.