UFC Noche: Drakkar Klose vs. Tommy Gantt Preview & Prediction

The UFC’s Noche event takes place this Saturday at the Footprint Center in Glendale, Arizona, featuring a compelling preliminary bout between veteran lightweight Drakkar Klose and undefeated prospect Tommy Gantt. The fight is slated for the preliminary card, which streams live on Paramount+ starting at 2:00 p.m. Eastern Time. With Klose looking to rebound from a short layoff and Gantt aiming to extend his perfect record, the matchup presents a fascinating clash of styles and experience levels.

Fighter Profiles

Drakkar Klose, 33, has been a UFC competitor since 2017 and enters the octagon with a 12-4-1 professional record. Klose is 5-1 over his last six promotional bouts, with his most recent victory coming against Edson Barboza at UFC 319 in August 2025. Despite a year‑long hiatus, Klose remains a technically sound striker with solid grappling fundamentals, and his experience in high‑stakes UFC fights is a clear advantage.

Tommy Gantt, 27, is a former collegiate wrestler who has transitioned seamlessly to mixed martial arts. He holds a perfect 12‑0 record, with 11 of his wins coming by way of knockout or submission. Gantt made his UFC debut in May 2025 and has shown explosive power, winning four of his last five fights by knockout. He trains under former two‑division champion Daniel Cormier at The Academy Fight Club in Gilroy, California, which emphasizes a well‑rounded, aggressive approach.

Betting Odds

Analysis

Physical measurements favor Gantt, who stands 5’11” with a 76‑inch reach compared to Klose’s 5’9″ and 70‑inch reach. The six‑inch reach differential could allow Gantt to control distance and dictate the pace, especially if he can close the gap with his wrestling. Gantt’s finishing ability is concentrated early; 10 of his 11 career finishes have occurred within the first two rounds, suggesting he looks to end fights quickly.

Klose, on the other hand, has shown durability and a capacity to go the distance. His last fight against Barboza went to a decision, demonstrating his ability to survive three rounds. However, Gantt’s aggressive, forward‑pressing style and superior power may overwhelm Klose’s defense, particularly if Gantt can land early and force a stoppage.

Prediction

Given Gantt’s physical advantages, high finishing rate, and the short over/under line of 1.5 rounds, the most compelling value play is Gantt to win in the first two rounds. The betting market offers that outcome at -105, indicating a near‑even split between the two possible round ranges. I expect Gantt to break down Klose’s defenses early and secure a knockout or submission before the end of the second stanza.

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