Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Looking at Jamahal Hill’s Last Fight

Originally posted on Dice City Sports | By Jacob Walters | Last updated 4/12/24

Jamahal Hill has an upcoming championship bout with UFC Light Heavyweight Champion Alex Pereira at UFC 300. The main event will cap off an amazing night, featuring stars like Justin Gaethje, Max Holloway, and Holly Holm.

But Hill’s last fight helped him get to this point. At UFC 283 in Rio de Janeiro, “Sweet Dreams” took care of Glover Teixeira to win the UFC Light Heavyweight Championship. Granted, it was a unanimous decision and not a timely knockout. However, a title win’s a title win.

But “Sweet Dreams” doesn’t have that UFC Light Heavyweight Championship anymore. Now, it’s in the hands of Pereira, who will prove to be a worthy opponent for the Chicago native. But what can Hill learn from his last fight to regain the title?

Jamahal Hill vs. Glover Teixeira

Jamahal Hill was aggressive against Glover Teixeira from the get-go, taking whatever looks he gave him. It makes sense since “Sweet Dreams” is a proficient striker (7.31 significant strikes landed per minute). However, his consistent striking constantly kept Teixeira on the defensive.

In turn, that striking led Hill to win the UFC Light Heavyweight title by unanimous decision. “Sweet Dreams” never let the Brazilian fighter get in much offense, limiting him to one or two blows per minute.

How Hill Can Win the Title

Alex Pereira is a patient fighter, which means he doesn’t get baited easily. Jamahal Hill loves to work his opponents with strikes, trying to take them out of the picture. If the Chicago native swings and misses against “Poatan,” he’s in trouble.

But there’s something to be said for smart striking. That means taking open looks and taking away the ability to counter. The defending UFC Light Heavyweight champion is incredible at countering his opponents. If Hill can follow up a strike with a well-landed blow, he can keep Pereira on his heels throughout the fight. That can lead to a golden opportunity to finish the fight for the Chicago native or win via decision.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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