Melk Costa is very good, but Melk isn't Max Holloway, Movsar Evloev or Jean Silva. I think Arnold Allen is the faster cleaner striker here and should be a step ahead. Melk is obviously a slick grappler as well but I'm not worried about takedowns or BJJ in this matchup. If i'm worried about anything it's the recent surge of power Melk has seem to put together, but I have no reason to think Arnold is chinny so I will take the better striker in a striking matchup.

Arnold Allen

Arnold Allen is a very good striker who loves coming forward. He has an upright stance which helps protect him when he is outside range, but then he comes lunging in with solid power. He has nice footwork and solid hand speed. He mixes in takedowns really well and has a few sneaky submissions. His takedown defense has evolved over the years and sits solidly at 71%. He is coming off the decision loss to Jean Silva who decided to wrestle in that fight.

Melquizael Costa

Melk Costa is a well rounded guy with creative striking and solid grappling. His takedown defense is not great, his offensive takedowns are just ok, but his scrambles are incredible. You will see him work for takedowns often, but he doesn't need them in most matchups. He has powerful hands and solid technique. He strings together combinations well and will even mix in spinning attacks like his last fight where he knocked out Dan Ige with a spinning back Kick.