Whether you think Slava actually tapped in his last fight or not, it doesn't matter, it was a terrible look either way. If he was taken down and submitted, then no one thinks twice. But to be dropped, by chase freaking hooper, is crazy. Now we need to determine if that was a one off fluke or if Slava has been in too many wars and the chin is gone. He should absolutely be the better and more technical striker in a fight that should only be on the feet, but the chin concerns are real and James can make something happen. I am still picking Slava because he is the better striker and this will be a striking match, but maybe a Llontop inside the distance decision no action bet is the way to go.

Viacheslav Borshchev

Viacheslav Borshchev is a fantastic striker with a legitimate professional kickboxing career before transitioning to MMA. He has a great jab, solid power and fantastic kicks. He has a low 36% takedown defense and has been taken down 29 times in 7 UFC fights. He is coming off the destruction by chase hooper where he was dropped and then smoked on the ground.

James Llontop

James Llontop is a well rounded guy with solid striking combinations and good body work. He doesn't look for offensive takedowns often but if he is taken down he has solid grappling and a great get up game. He has power in his hands and plenty of cardio so no need to worry that he is KO or bust. Overall he is a dangerous striker who can keep fights standing and avoid danger on the ground. He coming off a submission loss to Chris Padilla in his UFC debut where he got caught in a choke on his way up from a takedown.