Select the sports you want to hear about and TSZ will send the best previews, analysis and predictions straight to your inbox. Sign up today!
RICKY SIMON VS BRIAN KELLEHER FACTS
When is UFC 258? Sunday 14th February, 2021 – 01:00 start (UK)
Where is UFC 258? UFC APEX, Las Vegas, Nevada (US)
Where can I get tickets for UFC 258? Click here for the latest ticket information for UFC events
What channel is UFC 258 on? BT Sport 1
Where can I stream UFC 258? BT Sport subscribers can stream the fight online via the BT Sport website
For viewers in the United States, the event will be shown live on ESPN+ and you can sign up for access as part of a Disney Bundle here!
RICKY SIMON VS BRIAN KELLEHER LOWDOWN
COVID-19 has struck this scheduling down twice already. Ricky Simon’s (17-3) cornerman tested positive before UFC Fight Night 176 but managed to get a fight in second time around. Gaetano Pirrello stepped up for his debut and it was a complete mismatch, but Simon was just thankful to get in the cage and rack up a submission and second win in a row after outpointing Ray Borg back in May.
Brian Kelleher (22-11) eventually got a replacement when Simon pulled out. Kevin Natividad stepped up only to drop out soon after which gave Ray Rodriguez the opportunity to make his debut. Like Simon, Kelleher also wrapped up a submission, bouncing back from a decision loss to Cody Stamann and after he tested positive himself prior to UFC on ABC 1, they have their third date and we are all hoping they make it to the octagon.
RICKY SIMON VS BRIAN KELLEHER PREDICTION
Both guys are used to fighting at bantamweight, but this will be up at 145 lbs which will suit Simon more. He has a three-inch reach advantage, and he will be even more powerful up at featherweight which will make his wrestling more dangerous.
He is an exceptional wrestler, and it will be the smart play considering Kelleher’s punching power. Kelleher is very well-rounded, and he will offer a submission threat on the ground, but Simon’s wrestling should be enough to seal two rounds at least although this is bound to be a very close and competitive scrap.
