Tomorrow evening marks the debut of Front Row Fight Club in Niagara Falls, Ont. Front Row Fight Club 1 has dealt with its share of injury setbacks, but the headliner featuring Michael Imperato against Keith Carson remains a compelling matchup, and the rest of the lineup promises plenty of excitement. Here are my selections across the card.
Michael Imperato (9-4) vs. Keith Carson (7-7): PRO Bantamweight
Neither competitor has stepped into an MMA cage for more than two years, so both likely have refinements to their games. Carson may present challenges striking, but I believe Imperato's grappling prowess and track record against elite competition will ultimately tilt the scales.
Prediction: Imperato wins via submission in the second round.
Gino Ghalehpardaz (1-1) vs. Noah Crosswell (0-2): PRO Bantamweight
Ghalehpardaz enters this bout with momentum after claiming his maiden pro victory at BTC 14 in March, whereas Crosswell continues hunting his first professional triumph. Ground fighting has proven to be Crosswell's undoing throughout his career thus far, so should Ghalehpardaz secure takedowns, victory should be within reach.
Prediction: Ghalehpardaz wins via submission.
Akbar Nabavizadehzenoz (0-0) vs. Matheiu Langlais (1-3): PRO Light Heavyweight
My knowledge of Nabavizadehzenoz is limited to the fact that he brings a powerful wrestling arsenal to the table. I could easily be misreading this situation given how little I know, but Nabavizadehzenoz's wrestling skills figure to dictate this fight.
Prediction: Nabavizadehzenoz wins via submission.
Nate Ledger (0-5) vs. Marco Carlotti (0-1): PRO Featherweight
Neither competitor has experienced a win inside the cage during their professional runs, so one is bound to break through tonight. Ledger carries more experience and also enjoyed a commendable amateur career at 3-0-1, so I'm backing him considering I don't know nearly enough about Carlotti to make a stronger case for him.
Prediction: Ledger wins via submission.
