<p>Cristian Perez and Manoel Sousa could put on one of the more competitive fights inside the Octagon on Wednesday (from 10:00 AEST).</p> <p>The pair will clash in the second fight at the UFC Apex Arena as part of Season 9, Week 3 of Dana White’s UFC Contender Series. The show’s premise features up-and-coming fighters competing for a UFC contract, although winning doesn’t guarantee a contract.</p> <p>Still, there are plenty of betting opportunities available, so let’s take a look at this intriguing bout…</p> <h2>Cristian Perez vs Manoel Sousa: Tale of the Tape</h2> <p>The tale of the tape can help us try to identify where potential betting angles are, so let's compare the duo’s key statistics in an attempt to find value. Perez’s figures are first…</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Age - 26 vs 28</li> <li>Height - 5'9" (175cm) vs 5'9" (175cm)</li> <li>Weight - 155.0 lbs (70.3 kgs) vs 155.5 lbs (70.5 kgs)</li> <li>Reach - N/A vs 68.9" (175cm)</li> <li>Stance - Orthodox vs Switch</li> <li>Record - 13-1-0 vs 12-1-0</li> </ul> <h2>Cristian Perez vs Manoel Sousa: Betting Preview</h2> <p>With relatively similar attributes and fight records, it’s no surprise that there is plenty of interest in this upcoming fight.</p> <p>When betting on this one, it could be worth considering their last five fights. The Mexican is unbeaten in this period, whereas the Brazilian experienced his only loss to date. He did go the distance, but was beaten by unanimous decision - will this come into play against Perez?</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Perez’s Last Five Opponents:</li> <li>Sebastian Piedrahita - Win (TKO, 2) - Dec 2023</li> <li>Bruno Cannetti - Win (TKO, 1) - Jun 2023</li> <li>Gilber Ordóñez - Win (Sub, 2) - Nov 2022</li> <li>Samuel Alvarez - Win (TKO, 3) - Aug 2022</li> <li>Sebas Santana Guedes - Win (UD, 3) - Apr 2022</li> <li>&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>N.B. Perez was beaten in his last bout by decision against John Marquez in a karate fight.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Sousa’s Last Five Opponents:</li> <li>Lucas Barros - Win (UD, 3) - Mar 2025</li> <li>Archie Colgan - Loss (UD, 3) - Sep 2024</li> <li>Tim Wilde - Win (TKO, 1) - Mar 2024</li> <li>Paulo Henrique Laia - Win (SD, 3) - Feb 2023</li> <li>Mauro Chaulet - Win (TKO, 2) - May 2022</li> </ul> <h2>Cristian Perez vs Manoel Sousa: Betting Predictions</h2> <p>While expected to be competitive, the latest <a href="https://www.sportsbet.com.au/betting/ufc-mma/dana-whites-contender-series/cristian-perez-v-manoel-sousa-9554711">Cristian Perez vs Manoel Sousa betting odds</a> have the Brazilian as the favourite to win this bout.&nbsp;</p> <p>We mentioned before the odds were released that the Mexican could be worth backing, and we still think this could be the value bet. He appears to have a technical edge, while his ability to use low kicks, jabs, and movement, mixing to the body and head, can help him.</p> <p>However, Sousa is arguably considered the favourite due to his explosiveness and power. A KO finish could be in the offering for the Brazilian if he can take the fight to the Mexican in the way that he’ll plan to.&nbsp;</p>