Both of these guys are coming off absolute wars. Neither of them won, but they both showed us how tough they can be. I think Jamahal specifically needed that performance. The narrative on his cringy personality was spiraling out of control and while he didn't beat Jiri, he did absolutely dog through that fight and show the fans that he can be exciting. Similar performance out of Khalil, he stood toe to toe with the hardest hitter in the division and attempted zero takedowns. If they both show up to even a fraction of what they were in their last fight, this could be a ton of fun. I am going to lean Khalil here because I think if the fight gets ugly, he is faster and hits harder. For Jamahal to win he needs to keep this at range and pump his jab, I just don't know if Khalil will stay there, I think he cuts through, gets in the pocket and touches up Jamahal. Khalil is the pick and the line is slowly ticking in his favor.
Jamahal Hill
Jamahal Hill is the former light heavyweight champion of the world who had to relinquish his title when he blew out his Achilles playing basketball. He is a tall rangy striker who comes forward and picks his shots really well. He has an incredible 7-3 striking differential meaning he has high volume and he doubles his opponents strikes. He is primarily a boxer but he does have solid leg kicks. He has solid power, volume and accuracy to make him a real threat on his feet. He has a 73% takedown defense which I do not imagine he will need here.
Khalil Rountree
Khalil Rountree is a Muay Thai striker who has a ton of power and is very fast. Khalil can knock anyone out on any day as long as he is the one dictating the pace and pressure. He fights very well going forward but can struggle when backing up. He doesn't have much offensive wrestling with exactly 0 takedowns in 16 fights but his takedown defense is ok at 58%. He is coming off the back and forth slug fest with Alex Pereira where he showed the world he deserved to be there.
