Fresh off the heels of two highly successful outings, Samourai MMA returns with their third installment in Samourai MMA 3. This evening's lineup brings together a compelling blend of rising talent and seasoned competitors alike. Below, you'll find my picks for every bout on the card.
Frederik Dupras (4-1) vs. Carlos Espinosa (6-6): PRO Bantamweight DUPRAS PREVIEW
Following a three-year hiatus that concluded in 2021, Dupras's devastating grappling arsenal has been nothing short of dominant. This matchup suits his skill set beautifully, and I anticipate yet another submission victory landing in his record books.
Prediction: Dupras wins via submission.
Maxime Poulin (5-2) vs. Lenny Wheeler (9-6): PRO Featherweight
Wheeler once appeared poised to become one of Canada's premier rising stars, but a three-fight skid between 2016 and 2017 derailed that trajectory, and he hasn't stepped into the cage since. The lingering question remains: which Wheeler will take the stage? Poulin has stayed busier in recent years and consistently presents a serious grappling threat.
Prediction: Poulin wins via submission.
Robert Seres (5-3) vs. Patrick Connors (5-4): PRO Lightweight
Connors appears to have turned things around after a brutal four-fight skid, riding a two-win streak heading into this bout. Seres arrives hot off a strong showing at Samourai MMA 2, marking his first appearance since 2018. Should Seres handle Connors' height and reach effectively, I see him walking away victorious.
Prediction: Seres wins via submission.
Hugo Guillon (2-1) vs. Mathieu Langlais (2-3): PRO Light Heavyweight
This bout won't last long—I genuinely doubt it goes beyond a few exchanges. The outcome likely hinges on whoever connects cleanly first.
Prediction: Guillon wins via knockout.
Tommy Morrisson (1-0) vs. Diego Silva (5-3): PRO Flyweight
Morrisson was initially booked against Pierre Thivierge on this card before injury forced him out. He now steps up against a far more seasoned opponent in Silva, all on short notice. This represents a substantial leap in competition for Morrisson in just his second professional outing. Though I expect a tightly contested affair, I believe Morrisson takes the decision.
Prediction: Morrisson wins via decision.
