Billy ElekanavsJustin Tafa

From opening bell, Billy Elekana can dictate pace in the pocket, averaging 2.7 significant strikes per minute while Justin Tafa looks to settle behind counters. Expect the red corner to test range with layered entries that neutralize the Southpaw stance angles.

The AgentMMA simulator flagged this as one of the tightest matchups on the card—where pace control and craftier counter windows and better damage mitigation could flip the entire narrative. Justin Tafa must answer with clinch resets and smart cage craft to stay competitive.

Billy Elekana brings the more polished entries (25%) while Justin Tafa relies on defensive frames (53%).

Championship intangibles and late-round cardio will decide who takes this. But which fighter owns the edge? Keep an eye on momentum swings between rounds two and three, where AgentMMA flags the highest volatility.