Prediction: Brad Tavares via TKO
The massive gap in striking and the near-impossible path to victory for Gerald Meerschaert if he can’t get it to the mat. Tavares is levels above Meerschaert on the feet—faster, sharper, and fundamentally sound, while Meerschaert is slow, predictable, and wide open for counters. Given Tavares’ historically strong takedown defense, this is a nightmare matchup for Meerschaert.
Meerschaert’s striking is full of defensive liabilities. His footwork is sluggish, his head movement is non-existent, and he keeps his chin high in exchanges. He often walks forward with little regard for defense, hoping to either pressure his opponent into mistakes or create a sloppy clinch where he can drag things to the ground. The problem? Tavares is too disciplined to fall into that trap. He’s got clean footwork, manages range well, and rarely overextends himself. That means Meerschaert will be forced to initiate from too far out, which is where his biggest weaknesses show—his striking entries are telegraphed, making it easy for Tavares to counter and punish him.
Meerschaert’s only real win condition is a submission, but that requires getting Tavares to the ground—and that’s not happening. Tavares has fought and stuffed better wrestlers than Meerschaert. Without the takedown threat, Meerschaert is a sitting duck on the feet. Expect Tavares to stay composed, pick him apart with clean striking, and either put him away or cruise to a dominant decision victory.