Esteban Ribovics picks Diego Lopes to beat Charles Oliveira at UFC 335

Following his first-round TKO victory over King Green, Esteban Ribovics is now keeping his eyes on the BMF title fight between Charles Oliveira and Diego Lopes at UFC 335. The Argentine fighter already has his pick for who will come out victorious. Ribovics expects Lopes' durability to be a key factor when he faces Oliveira in the main event on Dec. 12 in Las Vegas.

Esteban Ribovics Sees Diego Lopes Beating Charles Oliveira

There is no doubt that both Oliveira and Lopes possess elite grappling skills, with the two Brazilians holding multiple submission victories. However, Ribovics sees Lopes' ability to absorb punishment as an advantage in a matchup that could feature intense exchanges on the feet. Speaking to Hablemos MMA, the Argentine explained why he expects Lopes to come out on top.

"For me, Diego wins," Ribovics began. "Both have good jiu-jitsu, but I think Diego has the chin. In those exchanges, we've seen Oliveira fall several times. He was knocked out by (Ilia) Topuria, and has been knocked down several times. We've also seen how people land on Diego, and his chin is strong. I think Diego might take a lot of punishment, but at some point he's going to connect."

Ribovics has some experience training with Lopes himself, as they crossed paths in Puebla, Mexico. The Argentine recalled being impressed by Lopes' physical strength and believes the Brazilian has likely added even more muscle since then.

"When I trained with him in Puebla, I felt he was a good size and strong," Ribovics said. "I'm sure he's now even bigger in muscle and might have to cut more. I felt him strong that time and felt he was up to par with the weight class."

Esteban Ribovics Wants a Shot at the BMF Title

While Ribovics is backing Lopes to win the belt, the Argentine also has ambitions of his own. Known for his aggressive style, Ribovics said he hopes to compete for the BMF title in the future and believes the belt suits the kind of fighter he is.

"Obviously, that's my style – violence," Ribovics said. "I dream of fighting for that belt. Maybe someday. I want it. I want it. Maybe soon. Why not next year? That belt goes according with my style."

Oliveira will defend the BMF title against Lopes in the main event of UFC 335 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas on Dec. 12. Oliveira captured the belt with a unanimous decision victory over Max Holloway at UFC 326 in March. Lopes, meanwhile, will make his lightweight debut after competing in the featherweight division.