vs
-140 +128
UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac · Feb 04, 2023 · Heavyweight · Completed
Prev Fight UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac Next Fight
Age 40
Height 6' 3"
Reach 78.0"
Weight 249 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 39
Height 5' 11"
Reach 73.0"
Weight 250 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Career Averages - Marcin Tybura
3.56 SLpM
48.0% Str. Acc.
3.26 SApM
55.0% Str. Def.
1.3 TD Avg
33.0% TD Acc.
70.0% TD Def.
0.1 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Blagoy Ivanov
3.25 SLpM
40.0% Str. Acc.
4.2 SApM
53.0% Str. Def.
0.69 TD Avg
40.0% TD Acc.
61.0% TD Def.
0.1 Sub. Avg
Marcin Tybura
Moneyline
Caesars -140
KO/TKO
BetRivers +450
Submission
BetRivers +1200
Decision
FanDuel +170
Blagoy Ivanov
Moneyline
FanDuel +128
KO/TKO
FanDuel +600
Submission
FanDuel +1300
Decision
DraftKings +240
Marcin Tybura - Fight History
LOSS vs Tyrell Fortune
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Adesanya vs. Pyfer · Mar 28, 2026
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 47 of 110 42% 85 of 153 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:41
Tyrell Fortune 0 30 of 59 50% 49 of 81 3 of 5 60% 0 0 5:07
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 8 of 22 36% 13 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tyrell Fortune 0 9 of 15 60% 18 of 26 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:03
2 Marcin Tybura 0 19 of 50 38% 21 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tyrell Fortune 0 13 of 26 50% 13 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Marcin Tybura 0 20 of 38 52% 51 of 73 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:41
Tyrell Fortune 0 8 of 18 44% 18 of 29 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 47 of 110 42% 22 of 77 20 of 27 5 of 6 36 of 96 11 of 14 0 of 0
Tyrell Fortune 30 of 59 50% 24 of 53 6 of 6 0 of 0 18 of 43 6 of 6 6 of 10
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 8 of 22 36% 5 of 16 2 of 4 1 of 2 4 of 17 4 of 5 0 of 0
Tyrell Fortune 9 of 15 60% 8 of 14 1 of 1 0 of 0 2 of 4 2 of 2 5 of 9
2 Marcin Tybura 19 of 50 38% 8 of 35 7 of 11 4 of 4 17 of 47 2 of 3 0 of 0
Tyrell Fortune 13 of 26 50% 11 of 24 2 of 2 0 of 0 12 of 25 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Marcin Tybura 20 of 38 52% 9 of 26 11 of 12 0 of 0 15 of 32 5 of 6 0 of 0
Tyrell Fortune 8 of 18 44% 5 of 15 3 of 3 0 of 0 4 of 14 3 of 3 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 22, 2026 (6 days before fight)
Tyrell Fortune

Angelo picks Tyrell Fortune because he believes Fortune's power and striking will be too much for the aging Marcin Tybura. He notes that if Tybura can get takedowns, he could grind out a win, but he doubts Tybura can avoid Fortune's power. Angelo suggests betting on Fortune inside the distance if hesitant on the moneyline, as Tybura is unlikely to finish Fortune.

Win inside distance decision no action
"Tyrell's going to be the pick. If you're too scared to bet him, then grab him at win inside the distance decision no action."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Mar 23, 2026 (5 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Big Brady leans toward Marcin Tybura to win by second-round submission. He acknowledges it's a greasy heavyweight fight and sees paths for both. He favors Tybura's experience and submission grappling advantage on the ground. He notes Tybura is 40 with a questionable chin, but believes if Tybura gets on top, the fight ends quickly. He also mentions Fortune's power and early finishes but thinks Tybura's path is more reliable.

Tybura by submission round 2
"I'm leaning Tybura here. ... I'll take him to win this fight by second round submission."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 25, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Cody picks Tybura, expecting him to survive Fortune's early explosiveness and take over as Fortune fades. He suggests live betting Tybura after the first round.

"It's going to be the Polish powerhouse, Marcin Tybura."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Mar 27, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Connor also picks Tybura, agreeing that Fortune's grappling is bad and that Tybura's backtake game will be decisive. He notes that Fortune is not interested in fighting and that Tybura's decline is a concern but Fortune is not the type to exploit it.

"I think for the grappling alone... I pick Tabora."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Mar 24, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Tyrell Fortune

Daniel thinks Fortune is catching Tybura at the right time, as Tybura is 40 and near retirement. He believes Fortune's motivation and well-rounded skills will earn him a UFC debut win.

"I think this is right place, right time for Tyrell Fortune to at least get one UFC win under his belt against an established, serious name in Marcin Tybura."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Mar 24, 2026 (4 days before fight)
Tyrell Fortune

The host believes Fortune's wrestling and grappling will be the difference, allowing him to control the fight on the ground. He notes Tybura's experience but thinks Fortune's strength and top pressure will grind out a decision. He expresses some concern about Fortune's submission defense after a heel hook loss but expects him to have shored that up.

decision
"I think we'll see Fortune having shored up those submission defense issues and I think that would lead to him grinding this fight out uh and having a successful UFC debut."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Mar 25, 2026 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Paul leans Tybura as a dog, citing Fortune's questionable cardio and heart. He's hesitant but sees value on Tybura at plus money.

"I'm taking the dog in Tybura as well."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 27, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Marcin Tybura

The MMA Guru picks Marcin Tybura, despite acknowledging Tyrell Fortune's wrestling background. He believes Tybura's experience and durability will carry him to a decision win. He notes that Fortune has not faced high-level competition recently and that Tybura can grind out a win. He predicts a 29-28 decision.

decision
"I'm picking Martin Tyura to win this fight."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Mar 27, 2026 (1 day before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Zane picks Tybura due to his grappling advantage, noting that Tybura is one of the few heavyweights with a backtake game, while Fortune has poor grappling instincts and gives up his back. He also mentions Fortune's lack of willingness to finish.

"I think for the grappling alone... I pick Tabora."
LOSS vs Ante Delija
KO R1 2:03 · UFC Fight Night: Imavov vs. Borralho · Sep 06, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 4 of 9 44% 8 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:18
Ante Delija 1 13 of 28 46% 15 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 4 of 9 44% 8 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:18
Ante Delija 1 13 of 28 46% 15 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 4 of 9 44% 1 of 5 3 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 7 2 of 2 0 of 0
Ante Delija 13 of 28 46% 13 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0 9 of 23 0 of 0 4 of 5
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 4 of 9 44% 1 of 5 3 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 7 2 of 2 0 of 0
Ante Delija 13 of 28 46% 13 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0 9 of 23 0 of 0 4 of 5
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Aug 31, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Angelo reluctantly picks Marcin Tybura, citing his toughness, experience, and ability to grind out wins. He notes that the line has flipped with Delija now the favorite. He acknowledges Delija's power and takedowns but points out his age (35) and that he's from another organization, which the community often dismisses. He believes Tybura's durability and cagemanship will be key.

"I'm going to pick Marcen Tyora. I'm going to stick with that pick, but it's a reluctant pick."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Sep 4, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Ante Delija

Big Brady picks Ante Delija, citing his speed and power on the feet. He notes Tybura's chin has been cracked and he is almost 40. He sees Delia winning by knockout if he can stuff takedowns, but acknowledges Tybura's path via grappling. He predicts a knockout win.

Delija by knockout
"I'll say Delia, I'll say Dia by knockout, but I'm looking forward to it."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 4, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Ante Delija

The host recalls their first meeting where Tybura won after Delija broke his leg. He thinks Delija can be successful in the UFC and will land more damaging shots, be more aggressive, mix in clinch and takedowns, eventually find a dominant position and get Tybura out of there via TKO.

TKO
"I think that will eventually lead to Dia finding a dominant position to rain down big shots and get Tyora out of there."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 3, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Ante Delija

The Guru picks Ante Delija, arguing that Tybura's 'fraud check' wins come against less experienced opponents, while Delija is a seasoned heavyweight with no clear holes. He notes Delija's training with Tom Aspinall and believes his athleticism and footwork will be too much. He predicts a TKO finish in round two or three, possibly from leg kicks and in-close shots.

TKO finish
"I'm going to go with Ante Deia. I think he's a step above the guys that do get fraud checked by Tyura."
WIN vs Mick Parkin
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Edwards vs. Brady · Mar 22, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 61 of 155 39% 64 of 158 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:01
Mick Parkin 0 60 of 145 41% 102 of 192 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:43
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 21 of 56 37% 21 of 56 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:19
Mick Parkin 0 23 of 45 51% 24 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:19
2 Marcin Tybura 0 7 of 20 35% 10 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:17
Mick Parkin 0 15 of 38 39% 41 of 69 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:24
3 Marcin Tybura 0 33 of 79 41% 33 of 79 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:25
Mick Parkin 0 22 of 62 35% 37 of 77 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 61 of 155 39% 28 of 110 29 of 40 4 of 5 60 of 151 1 of 4 0 of 0
Mick Parkin 60 of 145 41% 47 of 130 1 of 2 12 of 13 49 of 118 2 of 2 9 of 25
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 21 of 56 37% 4 of 34 15 of 20 2 of 2 21 of 56 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mick Parkin 23 of 45 51% 13 of 34 1 of 1 9 of 10 22 of 44 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Marcin Tybura 7 of 20 35% 4 of 15 3 of 5 0 of 0 7 of 19 0 of 1 0 of 0
Mick Parkin 15 of 38 39% 15 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0 5 of 12 1 of 1 9 of 25
3 Marcin Tybura 33 of 79 41% 20 of 61 11 of 15 2 of 3 32 of 76 1 of 3 0 of 0
Mick Parkin 22 of 62 35% 19 of 58 0 of 1 3 of 3 22 of 62 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Mar 16, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

Angelo picks Mick Parkin, going against his bias for wrestlers. He notes Tybura's chin is fading after being wobbled in recent fights, but questions whether Parkin has one-punch knockout power. He thinks if Tybura can't get takedowns, he's in trouble, and Parkin's pace and control could be the difference. He admits it's a gut pick.

"I'm going to go with my gut... and I'm picking Mick Parkin"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 18, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Brady is taking the underdog Tybura, questioning what a Mick Parkin win looks like. He notes Parkin's wins are against low-level competition and that he was outlanded by Kyle Machado. Brady thinks Tybura can win a close fight on the feet or dominate on top, and predicts a decision win.

Tybura by decision
"I'm going to take the underdog here and Marchin tabber to win this fight and I'm going to take him to win this fight by decision"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

The host notes that the UFC has brought Parkin along slowly, and now he faces a tough veteran. Parkin's athletic advantages in striking and grappling will be too much for the aging Tybura, leading to a late finish or decision win.

finish late in the fight or decision
"I think Parkin's athletic advantages here from his striking advantage to even some grappling that people have yet to see will be too much for the aging Tyboro to deal with."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 19, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Mick Parkin

The Guru is confident in Mick Parkin, praising his conditioning, patience, and well-rounded game. He notes that Tybura has beaten many heavyweights who rush for a finish, but Parkin is patient and won't make that mistake. He expects Parkin to chop at the legs, stay composed, and win a 29-28 decision, as he has seen Parkin answer grappling questions that other Tybura opponents could not.

decision 29-28
"I'm going with Mick Parkin guys Mick Parkin's going to get this one done"
WIN vs Jhonata Diniz
TKO (doctor stoppage) R2 5:00 · UFC 309: Jones vs. Miocic · Nov 16, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 35 of 49 71% 153 of 187 1 of 3 33% 0 1 7:14
Jhonata Diniz 0 15 of 29 51% 27 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:36
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 3 of 5 60% 66 of 82 0 of 1 0% 0 1 3:57
Jhonata Diniz 0 7 of 14 50% 17 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:36
2 Marcin Tybura 0 32 of 44 72% 87 of 105 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:17
Jhonata Diniz 0 8 of 15 53% 10 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 35 of 49 71% 33 of 46 1 of 2 1 of 1 9 of 19 0 of 0 26 of 30
Jhonata Diniz 15 of 29 51% 13 of 27 1 of 1 1 of 1 8 of 18 1 of 1 6 of 10
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 3 of 5 60% 2 of 4 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 2 0 of 0 2 of 3
Jhonata Diniz 7 of 14 50% 7 of 14 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 3 1 of 1 6 of 10
2 Marcin Tybura 32 of 44 72% 31 of 42 0 of 1 1 of 1 8 of 17 0 of 0 24 of 27
Jhonata Diniz 8 of 15 53% 6 of 13 1 of 1 1 of 1 8 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Jhonata Diniz vs. Marcin Tybura
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Tybura (-148), Diniz (+124)

Round 1
With Derrick Lewis out for the time being, Tybura (25-9, 12-8 UFC) is now the man who stands across the Octagon from undefeated hammer-thrower Diniz (8-0, 2-0 UFC). The Brazilian came in a few weeks ago expecting to serve as the favorite against “The Black Beast,” but instead he finds himself in a pick-‘em with a well-rounded Polish heavyweight. The big men get after it as soon as referee Herb Dean says go, with a touch of gloves a formality that happens first. Tybura strikes first with a body kick, and he shells up to block two punches up top. Diniz lets fly a surprising head kick, and he blitzes forward and clips the Polish fighter with a short, mean left hand. Tybura falls to his back, and Diniz gladly leaps on top while moving to half guard hacking down with elbows. Tybura attempts a sweep, but Diniz blasts him in the face with hammerfists in an effort to stop it. Tybura steels himself and completes the reversal, dumping the undefeated fighter on his back and lowering himself down into half guard. Diniz clings to the man on top of him to prevent most offense from raining down on him, and the crowd does not appreciate the stalemate that follows. Tybura uses his full body weight to press down, staying chest-to-chest and getting off short strikes on either side. Tybura covers Diniz’ mouth when not smacking him with short strikes that are more irritating than damaging. Tybura grinds with an elbow on the chin, and he uses the awkward face covering to step over to full mount. Tybura keeps tightly pressed rather than posturing up, smothering the unbeaten man and making his life miserable. Tybura sits up to drive a few punches on the chin, and Diniz ties him up again to save himself. Tybura gets in a single heavy elbow, and he rides out the remainder of the round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Tybura
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Tybura
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Tybura

Round 2
Gloves are touched to start the round, and once more, Tybura aims a kick to the ribs. Diniz crowds him with a right hand, and Tybura backs off to reset. Tybura reaches out with a left hand that comes up short, and he pushes out a front kick that is also inaccurate. Diniz’ clubbing right hand bounces off the guard, and he narrowly evades a front kick aimed at his chin. Tybura keeps his distance with another front kick, and he dings Diniz with a straight left. Diniz bites down on his mouthpiece and slugs the Polish fighter in the jaw with a few heavy blows, and Tybura strikes back and slips away. Tybura splits the guard with a left, and Diniz wings back three punches that get his attention. Tybura drops down, ducking a punch and setting up a double-leg takedown. “Tybur” climbs into half guard, and Diniz claims that he is getting poked in the eye. Dean tells them to keep working, and Tybura does so with sporadic but effective ground-and-pound. With 1:50 remaining in the round, Tybura assumes full mount, and he starts fishing for an armlock by gripping Diniz’ right wrist and torqueing it. Tybura lets it go so he can set up a crucifix, and he beats down on the Brazilian with punches and elbows. Tybura pounds down with a pair of elbows, and he opens up with several more than rip Diniz’ face wide open. Blood sprays across the canvas in a display reminiscent of the infamous “you don’t know where I’ve been, Lou” scene, only it is the man on his back that is pouring red fluid everywhere. Tybura jackhammers the Brazilian with a massive flurry of elbows, and Diniz barely survives to the bell as cuts are all over his face with blood streaming everywhere. Diniz has to be helped back to his corner, and doctors are going to look closely at him.
Before the third round opens, physicians attend to Diniz and check his condition. He passes the vision test, and the cutman appears to have sealed most of the open wounds on him. However, Diniz is wobbly on his feet even after a minute to recover, and the doctor does not want any further damage inflicted on the Brazilian.
Diniz starts shouting that he is fine, able to continue and is not as hurt as he appears. The medical team thinks otherwise, informing Dean that Diniz’ condition is no bueno and that he should not be fighting anymore today. Dean accepts their advice and calls a halt to the match between rounds, giving a 5:00 finish by doctor stoppage to the Polish fighter.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-8 Tybura
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-8 Tybura
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-8 Tybura

The Official Result
Marcin Tybura def. Jhonata Diniz R2 5:00 via TKO (Doctor Stoppage)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Nov 10, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Angelo picks Marcin Tybura, emphasizing that Tybura is a durable grinder who can get fights to the ground, while Jhonata Diniz is useless off his back. He notes that Diniz has great striking but untested takedown defense, and Tybura will eat shots to get the takedown. He hopes Tybura is an underdog and plans to bet if so.

Angelo says he will bet on Tybura if he is an underdog, and mentions using the Discord for alerts.
"we're picking marcine he's old he's slow as hell the haircuts insane ... but he is a grinder that can get fights to the ground"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Nov 14, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Big Brady leans with Marcin Tybura, believing that if Tybura gets the fight to the mat, he will dominate. He notes that Tybura often gets beat up on the feet before wrestling, but if he uses his fight IQ and takes Diniz down early, he can finish. He also mentions that Diniz is vulnerable on the ground, as seen in fights against Austin Lane and Karl Williams. Brady predicts a first-round knockout via ground and pound or submission.

fight time under 9.75 minutes, under 1.5 rounds
"I do got a lean with tyur here I just think if he gets the fight down to the mat it's a wrap"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Cody picks Marcin Tybura by submission, citing Tybura's grappling advantage and Diniz's poor takedown defense. He notes Tybura has taken down many heavyweights and has a black belt in BJJ. Cody expects Tybura to take Diniz down and submit him, possibly in the first round.

submission, round 1 (plus 800)
"I took Mar marching daura by submission and it just kind of comes down to like the Tai taiu iasa fight"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Nov 15, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Tybura's wrestling will be too much for Diniz. He mentions that Diniz's game is busy in the pocket but that Tybura can tie him up and drag him down. Connor also notes that Tybura has been knocked out before but is durable and awkward.

"Yeah, I think this is a good fight for marty and tibera. Yeah, agreed."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Nov 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Jhonata Diniz

Daniel Vreeland picks Jhonata Diniz as an underdog, believing he can survive Tybura's takedowns and win on the feet. He notes Diniz's youth, reach, and power, and thinks Tybura is declining. He acknowledges Tybura's ground game but expects Diniz to avoid or survive bad positions and land strikes. He mentions the odds movement as a factor.

"I think I'm willing to roll the dice on the underdog here"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Nov 14, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Vreeland picks Tybura as his lock, stating he is 1000% sure Tybura will take down and ground-and-pound Diniz. He believes Tybura's wrestling and top control will be too much for Diniz, leading to a TKO finish.

Marcin Tybura wins by KO/TKO (+525)
"I think Marine tybera is a thousand per gonna take down and grounded pound uh janat Den KN"
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Nov 14, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Fox picks Oliveira as his lock instead of Tybura, saying he got even safer. He does not provide detailed reasoning for this pick in the transcript, but it is clear he is confident in Oliveira.

"I'm taking Charles Oar... I'm playing it tight now"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 16, 2024 (fight day)
Marcin Tybura

The host notes Tybura is a different opponent than Diniz was expecting (originally scheduled to face Derrick Lewis). He expects Tybura to showcase his full MMA game, staying away from Diniz's striking, getting the fight to the ground, and finding a submission opportunity.

submission
"I'm expecting Toro to Showcase his full MMA game here staying away from the Striking of Dennis getting this fight to the ground and eventually finding a submission opportunity"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Paul picks Marcin Tybura, citing his experience and grappling. He notes Diniz is a one-dimensional striker with poor grappling, and Tybura will take him down and control him. Paul expects Tybura to win by decision or submission, and is confident in the pick.

"Ty bro is a play for me and again I'm glad it's early on the card because I may take a bath on this one"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 11, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Jhonata Diniz

The MMA Guru picks Jhonata Diniz, noting his kickboxing background and KO power. He sees value in Diniz as a slight underdog. He believes Diniz's takedown defense will hold up and that he can KO Tybura early, possibly with a jab.

KO/TKO in early rounds
"I'm going to go with janat denz... I think he's got the ability to pick up the takedown defense quite quickly... I can see janat denz getting a KO here"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Nov 15, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Zane picks Tybura, expecting him to take Diniz down and get his back. He notes that Tybura is one of the few backtake artists in the heavyweight division and that Diniz is not prepared for that grappling. Zane acknowledges that Tybura can get knocked out early, but he trusts Tybura's wrestling to prevail.

Odds: Tybura opened +115, now -142; Diniz opened -129, now +127. Zane notes it's not hopeless for Diniz if he kicks Tybura's legs early.
"I this looks like I've done a type world win first and foremost, but if he gets caught cold i'm not going to be... No, it would not be a shock."
LOSS vs Serghei Spivac
Submission (armbar) R1 1:44 · UFC on ESPN: Tybura vs. Spivac 2 · Aug 10, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Serghei Spivac 0 0 of 4 0% 9 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:43
Marcin Tybura 0 3 of 5 60% 8 of 11 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Serghei Spivac 0 0 of 4 0% 9 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:43
Marcin Tybura 0 3 of 5 60% 8 of 11 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:34
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Serghei Spivac 0 of 4 0% 0 of 2 0 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
Marcin Tybura 3 of 5 60% 2 of 4 0 of 0 1 of 1 3 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Serghei Spivac 0 of 4 0% 0 of 2 0 of 2 0 of 0 0 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0
Marcin Tybura 3 of 5 60% 2 of 4 0 of 0 1 of 1 3 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Aug 4, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Angelo picks Marcin Tybura because he already won the first fight and has good takedown defense (only taken down once in six years). He notes that Spivac hasn't evolved much and had a sloppy fight against Oleinik. However, he cautions that Tybura is 38 and Spivac is 9 years younger, and heavyweights are unpredictable. He likely won't bet on this fight.

Likely no money on this fight; age difference a concern
"I think Tor wins here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 7, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Cody agrees with Paul, favoring Tybura due to his cardio, striking, wrestling, and experience. He points out that Spivac's skill set hasn't evolved, his grappling isn't high-level, and he struggles when he can't take down opponents. Cody believes Tybura's ability to persevere and land better shots in later rounds gives him the edge.

"I'm going to agree it's a dogger pass main event for me as well it's not like there's huge dog money on marcine Toro but you got a guy that won the previous matchup"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 5, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Tybura is the better overall fighter with superior striking, cardio, and experience. He won the first fight and has only lost to top-tier heavyweights since. Spivac's improvements may not be enough to overcome Tybura's well-rounded game. The fight likely goes to the scorecards, making Tybura by decision a solid play at plus money.

Tybura by decision; over 2.5 rounds (or over 3.5 rounds) at even money
"I still think he's the better overall fighter in this spot better Striker can compete in the wrestling in my opinion maybe the better pure BJJ specialist probably the better cardio so it's kind of surprising to see him as …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 7, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Paul favors Tybura because he won the previous matchup and still holds advantages in striking, wrestling, cardio, and experience. He notes Spivac hasn't evolved much, has robotic striking, poor cardio, and relies on wrestling which Tybura can neutralize. Paul sees Tybura as a durable journeyman who can grind out a win in a five-round fight.

"I took some Plus 138 on Tuesday Cody cuz I just think tor's got better standup submission grappling may be an edge there speac really lays on the wrestling on a lot of people is he able to you know …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 8, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

The MMA Guru picks Marcin Tybura, citing his win in their first fight and his improved takedown defense. He notes Tybura's cardio advantage in a five-round fight and his ability to win later rounds, as seen against Blaydes and Romanov. He criticizes Spivac's lack of improvement and finishing ability, pointing out that Spivac landed no significant strikes against Tom Aspinall.

"I'm gonna go with Martin toura over Sergey spivac I don't think toura can be finished on the ground and their first fight toura one"
WIN vs Tai Tuivasa
Submission R1 4:08 · UFC Fight Night: Tuivasa vs. Tybura · Mar 16, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 15 of 24 62% 18 of 27 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tai Tuivasa 0 27 of 41 65% 73 of 96 1 of 4 25% 1 0 2:48
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 15 of 24 62% 18 of 27 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Tai Tuivasa 0 27 of 41 65% 73 of 96 1 of 4 25% 1 0 2:48
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 15 of 24 62% 9 of 17 1 of 2 5 of 5 8 of 17 7 of 7 0 of 0
Tai Tuivasa 27 of 41 65% 23 of 34 4 of 7 0 of 0 8 of 20 0 of 0 19 of 21
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 15 of 24 62% 9 of 17 1 of 2 5 of 5 8 of 17 7 of 7 0 of 0
Tai Tuivasa 27 of 41 65% 23 of 34 4 of 7 0 of 0 8 of 20 0 of 0 19 of 21
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Tai Tuivasa vs. Marcin Tybura
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Tuivasa (-122), Tybura (+105)

Round 1
Heavyweights put meat back on the menu for the marquee matchup. Likely having to cut down in weight to reach 266 pounds, Tuivasa (14-6, 8-6 UFC) is ready to let his heavy hands fly. Tybura (24-8, 11-7 UFC), who will be almost 20 pounds lighter officially—not counting whatever Tuivasa weight lost to get there—would prefer not to be on the receiving end of those fists. Although it is always possible that this could go 25 minutes, referee Herb Dean is ready for this to be done sooner than later. He brings them together, and they bump gloves before trying to take the other’s head off. Tuivasa sticks out a jab, and Tybura releases a body kick and a right hand in response. Tuivasa aims a body kick and connects with a few right hands, and Tybura closes in and gets clacked with several elbows on the forehead. The elbows slide Tybura’s head open on several places, causing blood to flow fast. Tybura looks to his hand to see the blood, and Tuivasa starts letting go with heavy leg kicks Tybura lumbers forward, walking through strikes to shoot in for a double. Tybura clasps his hands, and when Tuivasa punches him on the side of the head, he lifts the Aussie up and slams him down to the ground. “Tybur” lands in half guard and starts driving down right hands, and he lets Tuivasa turn to his knees so he can take the back. Tybura gets both hooks in and starts raining down right hands on the side of the head. As he continues to pound on “Bam Bam,” Tuivasa lowers himself down and does not seem otherwise worse for wear. Tuivasa turns to his side and tries to defend the sledgehammers with one hand. Tybura keeps heavy and allows Tuivasa to turn over so he can keep bludgeoning the Aussie. Tybura softens his man up before locking down a rear-naked choke, and he secures it under the chin. Tuivasa fights the grip and kicks with his legs to tough out the choke, and he tries to slowly slide his jaw down to escape choke danger. Tybura does not release the grip even when he hears Tuivasa gasping for air and clinging to consciousness, but he knows the finish is right around the corner. The Polish heavyweight retains his grip, and as he presses down with his full weight from behind, he puts Tuivasa all the way out. Tuivasa goes out on his shield, his arm flopping to the side, and Dean recognizes this immediately and halts the fight. This is a massive win for Tybura, even with Tuivasa skidding, as he lands the first submission in his UFC career, doing so under bright lights. With that technical submission—not the first of the night, making this card somewhat unusual—in the books, this show comes to a close. The Apex will play host again next week to another event before taking to the road, and we will be here for it. We hope you are too.

The Official Result
Marcin Tybura def. Tai Tuivasa R1 4:08 via Technical Submission (Rear-Naked Choke)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 11, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Angelo notes that Tuivasa's chin is gone after three consecutive knockout losses to elite heavyweights, and his takedown defense is only 54%. Tybura is a durable grinder who uses strikes to set up takedowns and will pound on opponents once on top. He thinks Tybura can rush Tuivasa against the cage and grind through takedowns. He is watching the line movement, hoping to get Tybura at +120 or +130 as the fan favorite gets action.

watching line movement; hopes for better odds
"tybor is the underdog pick here I am going to watch the line movement a lot of these fights I'm watching the line movement"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Tai Tuivasa

Big Brady picks Tai Tuivasa to win by first-round knockout. He believes Tuivasa's power and striking advantage will be too much for Tybura, who lacks power and has been knocked out before. He notes the risk if the fight goes long and Tybura gets on top, but expects Tuivasa to land first.

by first round knockout
"Give me a taiu iasa first round knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Tai Tuivasa

Cody leans toward Tai Tuivasa, citing his early explosiveness and power as likely too much for Tybura, who has been knocked out quickly in recent fights. He notes Tybura's wrestling threat but believes Tuivasa can stuff early takedowns and land a knockout before the fight gets deep. He acknowledges the line is even money and both have a chance, but Tuivasa's youth and power give him the edge.

by KO
"I feel like I want to go Tai Tuivasa... I just got like a nagging suspicion that Tai's power is just too much for him he crumples him up early."
LU
Lucrative James Expert picked Mar 12, 2024 (4 days before fight)

Lucrative James is torn on this fight. He acknowledges that stylistically Tai Tuivasa could knock out Tybura, but he is concerned about Tuivasa's mental state, recent three-fight losing streak, and a knee injury three months prior. He also notes Tybura's reliability and grinding style, comparing it to the Blaydes fight. He ultimately decides he likely won't bet on this fight but might play Tuivasa KO in round 1 or 2 or Tybura by decision.

"I can see Ty knocking him out in round one for sure but I can also see Tor just weathering the storm and just coming in as the more reliable heavyweight..."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 15, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Marcin Tybura

The host notes Tuivasa is on a losing streak and heavily reliant on knockout power, but when facing cleaner, crisper opponents he often comes up short. He expects Tybura to have a cleaner all-around game, roughing up Tuivasa in the clinch, dragging him to the floor, and possibly opening up a submission. He acknowledges Tuivasa's power but believes Tybura can avoid it due to Tuivasa's telegraphing. He compares Tybura's ability to take big shots from past opponents and still win, predicting Tybura dictates the fight and grinds out a decision or an arm triangle choke.

arm triangle choke
"I think Toro will come up short against the Tom Aspen of the world but we've seen him take some big shots from guys like Greg Hardy and Walt Harris as well as Ben Rothwell and he rolls well with …"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Mar 13, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Tai Tuivasa

Paul also picks Tai Tuivasa by knockout, agreeing with Cody that Tybura's wrestling is not likely to be effective early when Tuivasa is fresh. He notes that Tybura will have to eat shots to close distance and that the small cage helps Tuivasa. He acknowledges the unpredictability of heavyweights but sees this as a decent matchup for Tuivasa to get back on track.

by KO
"I'm picking Tai as well I think Tai by knockout... in those first seven and a half minutes or so he's if he does try to close distance he's going to be eating shots trying to do so."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 12, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Tai Tuivasa

The Guru picks Tai Tuivasa by TKO in round one or two. He believes Tuivasa's calf kicks will be effective against Tybura, who lacks the low kick defense of Volkov. He notes Tuivasa's ability to get back up from takedowns and his power punching, especially uppercuts and hooks. He thinks Tybura is hittable and Tuivasa will find his chin, as he did against Ciryl Gane.

round one or two KO
"I'm going to go with round two or one KO for tyu evasa... I think tuivasa is going to capitalize chopping that car early and then started to bring it upstairs."
LOSS vs Tom Aspinall
TKO (elbow and punches) R1 1:13 · UFC Fight Night: Aspinall vs. Tybura · Jul 22, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Tom Aspinall 1 13 of 18 72% 13 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Marcin Tybura 0 4 of 15 26% 4 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Tom Aspinall 1 13 of 18 72% 13 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Marcin Tybura 0 4 of 15 26% 4 of 15 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Tom Aspinall 13 of 18 72% 12 of 17 1 of 1 0 of 0 7 of 10 0 of 0 6 of 8
Marcin Tybura 4 of 15 26% 2 of 13 2 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Tom Aspinall 13 of 18 72% 12 of 17 1 of 1 0 of 0 7 of 10 0 of 0 6 of 8
Marcin Tybura 4 of 15 26% 2 of 13 2 of 2 0 of 0 4 of 15 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lock picked Jul 16, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

Angelo is all-in on Tom Aspinall, believing he should dominate anywhere the fight goes. He acknowledges the knee injury concern but thinks Aspinall's speed, power, and BJJ are superior. He calls Aspinall the most confident pick on the card and suggests him as a parlay piece with Molly McCann.

suggested as parlay piece with Molly McCann
"I'm all in on Tom aspinall here I think he's a solid parlay piece"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jul 18, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

Big Brady picks Tom Aspinall to win by first-round knockout. He calls it a setup fight for Aspinall after his injury. He notes Tybura has been knocked out by Derrick Lewis and others, and questions his chin. He thinks Aspinall's speed and power will be too much, and Tybura's only path is to take Aspinall down or outlast him, which he doubts. He mentions Tybura looked skinny at the face-off.

first round knockout
"give me Tom aspinall Tom Aspen to win this fight by first round knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jul 19, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Cody acknowledges Aspinall is likely to win but sees value on Tybura at +380 due to Aspinall's knee injury and heavyweight volatility. He took a very small bet on Tybura, fully expecting to lose, but thinks the price is too high on Aspinall. He mentions that historically, plus money heavyweights have value.

small bet on Tybura moneyline at +380
"I took a little bit very very small bet of Marcin tibora plus 380. I'm prepared to look really really dumb"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jul 20, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

Daniel picks Tom Aspinall to win, citing his speed, technical striking, and well-rounded game including takedowns and submissions. He notes that Aspinall represents the new wave of heavyweights and has a significant speed advantage over Tybura. However, he is concerned about the price at -475, calling it a 'sucker bet' and stating he lines Aspinall closer to -400. He also mentions the risk of freak injury given Aspinall's recent surgery. Despite the pick, he passes on betting due to poor value.

Daniel says the price is 'absolutely terrible' and that laying -475 to -500 is a 'sucker bet'. He lines Aspinall closer to -400 and passes on betting.
"I do think Tom's gonna win this fight but I mean I think that laying minus 475 to minus 500 here is a sucker bet"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Jul 18, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

James picks Tom Aspinall to win by finish in round two. He acknowledges Aspinall's cardio is an unknown but notes that the only evidence of a cardio issue was the Arlovski fight where Aspinall seemed to have an adrenaline dump but still finished. He believes Aspinall is better than Tybura everywhere and that Tybura's only advantages are experience and potential cardio. James thinks Aspinall will be smarter this time and not steamroll in round one, but will get the finish in round two. He mentions that Tybura at +350 is the value side but he still favors Aspinall.

Tom Aspinall wins in round two
"I think he probably finishes tybora in round two and that's my prediction of the fire I've got time in round two"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

The host picks Tom Aspinall, citing his speed, power, and ability to finish. He notes Tybura has been hurt early in fights before but that Aspinall is a better finisher than those opponents. He predicts a first-round stoppage and suggests targeting under 1.5 rounds.

under 1.5 rounds at -140/-150
"I think that early speed and power Advantage for Tom aspinel is going to be too much for tibura... I think it's going to end up with him getting his hand raised by a first round stoppage here"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 19, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

Paul picks Aspinall but notes the price is too high to bet straight. He suggests live betting Tybura after the first round if Aspinall gasses. He highlights Aspinall's speed, power, and BJJ, but also his cardio concerns and the knee injury. He would hedge if Aspinall is on a parlay.

suggests live betting Tybura after round 1
"I would take Tom maskman all here don't know if I end up putting them on the top ticket an option"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Tom Aspinall

The MMA Guru picks Tom Aspinall, calling it a logical pick. He criticizes Marcin Tybura's age and conditioning, and notes Tybura has no submission wins in the UFC. The Guru believes Aspinall has a massive advantage on the feet and on the ground, and predicts a finish in the first round, either by TKO or takedown. He also mentions Aspinall's year off and vengeance after surgery.

finish in first round
"I'm going with asper now I think it's a very logical pick"
WIN vs Blagoy Ivanov
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac · Feb 04, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 40 of 103 38% 61 of 133 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:55
Blagoy Ivanov 0 34 of 113 30% 34 of 113 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 22 of 45 48% 22 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 12 of 41 29% 12 of 41 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Marcin Tybura 0 17 of 57 29% 17 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 22 of 72 30% 22 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Marcin Tybura 0 1 of 1 100% 22 of 31 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:55
Blagoy Ivanov 0 0 of 0 --- 0 of 0 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 40 of 103 38% 12 of 70 19 of 24 9 of 9 39 of 102 0 of 0 1 of 1
Blagoy Ivanov 34 of 113 30% 24 of 98 10 of 15 0 of 0 34 of 112 0 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 22 of 45 48% 5 of 26 10 of 12 7 of 7 22 of 45 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 12 of 41 29% 8 of 35 4 of 6 0 of 0 12 of 40 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Marcin Tybura 17 of 57 29% 7 of 44 9 of 12 1 of 1 17 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 22 of 72 30% 16 of 63 6 of 9 0 of 0 22 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Marcin Tybura 1 of 1 100% 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1
Blagoy Ivanov 0 of 0 --- 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Jan 29, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Big Brady calls this a messy fight and expects it to go to a greasy decision. He picks the underdog Ivanov because he is more durable and has never been finished, while Tybura has been finished multiple times. He is not confident and advises against betting.

over 2.5 rounds, fight goes to decision
"I'm gonna take even off to win a very greasy split decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Cody picks Ivanov at plus money, calling it a close heavyweight fight. He believes Ivanov has a slight edge in technical boxing and volume. He notes both fighters are low-volume and durable, expecting a decision. He took Ivanov at +130 and thinks the fight is essentially 50-50, so he takes the underdog.

"I took the plus money at plus 130... I think he's got a maybe a slight Edge in uh in like technical boxing a slight Edge in volume"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Feb 2, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Connor picks Marcin Tybura, expecting a split decision. He notes that Tybura is more proactive with kicks and combinations, and will likely be the one initiating clinch exchanges. However, he acknowledges Ivanov's durability and defensive wrestling, which could make the fight ugly. Connor is confident it will be a split decision but leans Tybura due to higher output.

split decision
"I am absolutely confident that this will be a split decision... I got to assume that Tibora just being more proactive is going to win in this fight."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Paul picks Tybura, arguing that Ivanov has looked slow and predictable in recent fights. He notes Ivanov's poor cardio and lack of takedown attempts, while Tybura has good cardio and mobility for a heavyweight. He expects Tybura to outwork Ivanov, especially in the later rounds. He also likes the under on Tybura 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks.

Tybura under 1.5 takedowns (PrizePicks)
"I went the other way I just can't get behind blah boy anymore... gotta go the other way here in marcine Tabor but middling heavyweights expect the worst"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Feb 2, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Zane picks Marcin Tybura, agreeing that it will be a split decision. He notes that Tybura has better tools at range and is more likely to control the clinch. However, he warns that Ivanov's power and chin could cause an upset if Tybura gets hurt. Zane sees Tybura's improved composure as a key factor.

split decision
"I am absolutely confident that this will be a split decision... I got to assume that Tibora just being more proactive is going to win in this fight."
Blagoy Ivanov - Fight History
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Strickland vs. Magomedov · Jul 01, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Alexandr Romanov 0 85 of 154 55% 104 of 180 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:53
Blagoy Ivanov 0 44 of 108 40% 44 of 108 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Alexandr Romanov 0 17 of 31 54% 17 of 31 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:07
Blagoy Ivanov 0 13 of 29 44% 13 of 29 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Alexandr Romanov 0 22 of 41 53% 38 of 64 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:43
Blagoy Ivanov 0 9 of 28 32% 9 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Alexandr Romanov 0 46 of 82 56% 49 of 85 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:03
Blagoy Ivanov 0 22 of 51 43% 22 of 51 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Alexandr Romanov 85 of 154 55% 52 of 121 11 of 11 22 of 22 74 of 137 4 of 4 7 of 13
Blagoy Ivanov 44 of 108 40% 38 of 102 5 of 5 1 of 1 44 of 108 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Alexandr Romanov 17 of 31 54% 5 of 19 5 of 5 7 of 7 16 of 30 1 of 1 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 13 of 29 44% 11 of 27 1 of 1 1 of 1 13 of 29 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Alexandr Romanov 22 of 41 53% 12 of 31 2 of 2 8 of 8 18 of 37 1 of 1 3 of 3
Blagoy Ivanov 9 of 28 32% 7 of 26 2 of 2 0 of 0 9 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Alexandr Romanov 46 of 82 56% 35 of 71 4 of 4 7 of 7 40 of 70 2 of 2 4 of 10
Blagoy Ivanov 22 of 51 43% 20 of 49 2 of 2 0 of 0 22 of 51 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Jun 25, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Angelo picks Blagoy Ivanov but with hesitation, contingent on Romanov's weight cut. He notes Romanov's recent poor performances and lack of cardio, while Ivanov has an iron chin and solid takedown defense. He plans to wait for weigh-ins: if Romanov looks in shape, he'll switch to Romanov; if not, he'll bet Ivanov. He mentions Ivanov at +125.

waiting for weigh-ins; potential bet on Ivanov if Romanov looks out of shape
"right now the pick is going to be Ivanov I the pig is going to be blue Ivanov because Alexander romanov's last two fights he had one round of cardio"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Jun 26, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Big Brady picks Blagoy Ivanov to win by third-round finish, but is very hesitant. He notes Romanov has cardio issues and looked terrible at weigh-ins for his last fight, gassing after one minute. Ivanov is extremely durable, has never been knocked out, and has gone to decision in all seven UFC fights. Brady says he needs to see Romanov's weigh-ins to have a stronger opinion, but if Ivanov survives the first round, he should take over and possibly finish late.

third round finish
"I'll say he takes over I'll say third round finish four but goal even off"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Jun 28, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Alexandr Romanov

Cody is torn on Romanov. He notes Romanov's potential and wrestling, but his poor cardio and questionable heart after the Volkov loss. He thinks if Romanov comes in shape, he can take Ivanov down and win early rounds. However, Ivanov is extremely durable and has never been finished. Cody suggests waiting for weigh-ins and considering live betting.

Live bet Romanov after first round if he looks good
"I am going to pick Romanov but the best way to attack this thing is live"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Jun 29, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Daniel picks Ivanov pre-weigh-ins due to Romanov's inconsistency and weight issues. He notes Romanov's drastic weight fluctuation (239 to 264 lbs) and his tendency to quit after failed takedowns. Ivanov is durable, has a 70% takedown defense, and has been competitive in all his losses. However, Daniel reserves the right to change his pick if Romanov weighs in lean (239 lbs). He calls it a 'wait for weigh-ins' situation.

"pre weigh-ins I'ma go blagoy because at least I know like is going to give his best"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jun 28, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Paul picks Ivanov, citing his durability and proven ability to go 15 minutes. He notes Romanov has never shown he can fight past the second round without gassing. Ivanov has gone the distance with top heavyweights and has good grappling. Paul thinks Romanov's cardio and mental toughness are major question marks, and Ivanov will outlast him.

Ivanov round 3 at 12-1
"I'm gonna take every single time the guy has proven time and time again against Elite level competition that he can fight 15 minutes we haven't seen that from Romanov so yeah it's black boy black boy for me"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Jun 27, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Alexandr Romanov

The Guru picks Alexander Romanov but expresses hesitation due to Romanov's terrible performance against Alexander Volkov, where he gave up after a stuffed takedown. However, he believes Romanov can out-grapple Blagoy Ivanov, who is fat and unathletic, using his signature forearm choke. He uses MMA algebra: Romanov outgrappled Tybura, who outgrappled Ivanov. He notes Ivanov is not adding new wrinkles and is aging.

forearm choke submission
"I'm gonna go with Alexander Romanov here over blogore Ivanov I I have to pick Romanov to win"
LOSS vs Marcin Tybura
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Spivac · Feb 04, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcin Tybura 0 40 of 103 38% 61 of 133 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:55
Blagoy Ivanov 0 34 of 113 30% 34 of 113 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcin Tybura 0 22 of 45 48% 22 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 12 of 41 29% 12 of 41 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Marcin Tybura 0 17 of 57 29% 17 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 22 of 72 30% 22 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Marcin Tybura 0 1 of 1 100% 22 of 31 1 of 1 100% 0 0 4:55
Blagoy Ivanov 0 0 of 0 --- 0 of 0 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcin Tybura 40 of 103 38% 12 of 70 19 of 24 9 of 9 39 of 102 0 of 0 1 of 1
Blagoy Ivanov 34 of 113 30% 24 of 98 10 of 15 0 of 0 34 of 112 0 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcin Tybura 22 of 45 48% 5 of 26 10 of 12 7 of 7 22 of 45 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 12 of 41 29% 8 of 35 4 of 6 0 of 0 12 of 40 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Marcin Tybura 17 of 57 29% 7 of 44 9 of 12 1 of 1 17 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 22 of 72 30% 16 of 63 6 of 9 0 of 0 22 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Marcin Tybura 1 of 1 100% 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1
Blagoy Ivanov 0 of 0 --- 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Jan 29, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Big Brady calls this a messy fight and expects it to go to a greasy decision. He picks the underdog Ivanov because he is more durable and has never been finished, while Tybura has been finished multiple times. He is not confident and advises against betting.

over 2.5 rounds, fight goes to decision
"I'm gonna take even off to win a very greasy split decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Cody picks Ivanov at plus money, calling it a close heavyweight fight. He believes Ivanov has a slight edge in technical boxing and volume. He notes both fighters are low-volume and durable, expecting a decision. He took Ivanov at +130 and thinks the fight is essentially 50-50, so he takes the underdog.

"I took the plus money at plus 130... I think he's got a maybe a slight Edge in uh in like technical boxing a slight Edge in volume"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Feb 2, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Connor picks Marcin Tybura, expecting a split decision. He notes that Tybura is more proactive with kicks and combinations, and will likely be the one initiating clinch exchanges. However, he acknowledges Ivanov's durability and defensive wrestling, which could make the fight ugly. Connor is confident it will be a split decision but leans Tybura due to higher output.

split decision
"I am absolutely confident that this will be a split decision... I got to assume that Tibora just being more proactive is going to win in this fight."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Paul picks Tybura, arguing that Ivanov has looked slow and predictable in recent fights. He notes Ivanov's poor cardio and lack of takedown attempts, while Tybura has good cardio and mobility for a heavyweight. He expects Tybura to outwork Ivanov, especially in the later rounds. He also likes the under on Tybura 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks.

Tybura under 1.5 takedowns (PrizePicks)
"I went the other way I just can't get behind blah boy anymore... gotta go the other way here in marcine Tabor but middling heavyweights expect the worst"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Feb 2, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Zane picks Marcin Tybura, agreeing that it will be a split decision. He notes that Tybura has better tools at range and is more likely to control the clinch. However, he warns that Ivanov's power and chin could cause an upset if Tybura gets hurt. Zane sees Tybura's improved composure as a key factor.

split decision
"I am absolutely confident that this will be a split decision... I got to assume that Tibora just being more proactive is going to win in this fight."
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 274: Oliveira vs. Gaethje · May 07, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Blagoy Ivanov 0 62 of 128 48% 75 of 142 0 of 4 0% 0 0 3:52
Marcos Rogério de Lima 0 68 of 133 51% 81 of 147 1 of 5 20% 0 0 2:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Blagoy Ivanov 0 12 of 29 41% 15 of 32 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:32
Marcos Rogério de Lima 0 25 of 45 55% 25 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Blagoy Ivanov 0 30 of 54 55% 33 of 58 0 of 2 0% 0 0 2:09
Marcos Rogério de Lima 0 26 of 56 46% 35 of 65 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:17
3 Blagoy Ivanov 0 20 of 45 44% 27 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:11
Marcos Rogério de Lima 0 17 of 32 53% 21 of 37 1 of 4 25% 0 0 1:47
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Blagoy Ivanov 62 of 128 48% 53 of 118 9 of 10 0 of 0 54 of 118 8 of 10 0 of 0
Marcos Rogério de Lima 68 of 133 51% 46 of 107 18 of 20 4 of 6 58 of 115 10 of 18 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Blagoy Ivanov 12 of 29 41% 9 of 26 3 of 3 0 of 0 11 of 27 1 of 2 0 of 0
Marcos Rogério de Lima 25 of 45 55% 10 of 27 12 of 13 3 of 5 23 of 42 2 of 3 0 of 0
2 Blagoy Ivanov 30 of 54 55% 24 of 48 6 of 6 0 of 0 27 of 51 3 of 3 0 of 0
Marcos Rogério de Lima 26 of 56 46% 22 of 51 3 of 4 1 of 1 19 of 44 7 of 12 0 of 0
3 Blagoy Ivanov 20 of 45 44% 20 of 44 0 of 1 0 of 0 16 of 40 4 of 5 0 of 0
Marcos Rogério de Lima 17 of 32 53% 14 of 29 3 of 3 0 of 0 16 of 29 1 of 3 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2022 (7 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Angelo picks Blagoy Ivanov, citing his iron chin and combat sambo background. He believes Ivanov's chin will frustrate de Lima and that if Ivanov gets a takedown, he will have a clear advantage on top. He notes that six of de Lima's seven losses are by submission, providing a clear path.

"I do like ivanov or ivanov to get the win here i think his chin will frustrate de lima"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 2, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Big Brady picks Blagoy Ivanov to win by second-round submission. He notes that de Lima is dangerous early with power and leg kicks, but he fades and has poor takedown defense (47%) and submission defense. Ivanov is extremely durable, having eaten shots from heavy hitters and survived a stabbing. Brady thinks de Lima will win the first round but Ivanov will take over in the second, taking de Lima down and submitting him. He compares it to the Struve fight where Struve submitted de Lima after nearly being finished.

second round submission
"I think ivanov takes down to lima de lima's takedown defense is not good it's sitting at like 50 it's actually sitting at 47 percent and then on top of that his gas tank's not good his submission defense is …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked May 4, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Cody picks Blagoy Ivanov, emphasizing his incredible durability (survived stabbing, fought Fedor, Derrick Lewis). He notes that de Lima has poor cardio, weak submission defense, and relies on early power. Cody believes Ivanov can take de Lima's best shots and then take over as de Lima fades. He sees Ivanov's takedown defense and chin as decisive factors.

"i completely agree i think blagoy ivanov uh he just the way he matches up against roger de lima can give him a whole lot of problems"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 5, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Daniel Levi picks Blagoy Ivanov by decision, citing his durability and never being finished. He notes de Lima is powerful early but fades and has low volume. He worries about Ivanov's own low output but thinks he can grind out a win. He does not bet the fight.

Daniel does not bet this fight. He mentions Ivanov by decision but no bet.
"The pick is for me is going to be Ivanov by decision but I don't have a bet on either fighter in this matchup."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 6, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

The host picks Blagoy Ivanov, citing his durability and ability to survive de Lima's early power. He notes Ivanov's chin held up against heavy hitters like Derrick Lewis. He expects Ivanov to weather the first round, then wear on de Lima and finish him later. He likes the round 3 prop at +1000 and decision prop at +185. He plans to bet 1.4-1.5 units on Ivanov moneyline, acknowledging the layoff risk but believing Ivanov is rightly favored and could be even shorter.

Ivanov round 3 +1000; Ivanov by decision +185; de Lima round 1 KO +800 as hedge
"i'm gonna likely take a shot on it maybe a like a 1.4 or 1.5 unit play on blagoy even off"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked May 4, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Paul picks Blagoy Ivanov, surprised the line is so close. He notes that Ivanov is durable and has never been finished, while de Lima gasses and has poor takedown defense. Paul believes Ivanov's takedown defense and chin will be key, and that de Lima's only path is an early knockout. He expects Ivanov to win by decision or late stoppage.

"i feel like blagoy is the side here and it's not particularly close i'm surprised that the line is this close"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 2, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

The MMA Guru picks Blagoy Ivanov, trusting his granite chin and consistency against a higher level of competition. He notes Ivanov went five rounds with JDS and arguably beat Derrick Lewis. He criticizes de Lima's inconsistency and believes Ivanov will grind out a close 29-28 decision by pressuring and winning stand-up exchanges. He dismisses the height difference as not significant.

"i'm going to trust him blagojev enough getting this one done um they say there's a massive height difference i don't think there's going to be too much of a height difference"
LOSS vs Augusto Sakai
Decision (split) (27–30, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Woodley vs. Burns · May 30, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Augusto Sakai 0 66 of 125 52% 71 of 130 1 of 3 33% 0 0 1:08
Blagoy Ivanov 0 78 of 161 48% 89 of 174 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:46
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Augusto Sakai 0 15 of 27 55% 19 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:29
Blagoy Ivanov 0 12 of 38 31% 16 of 42 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:18
2 Augusto Sakai 0 30 of 49 61% 31 of 50 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:39
Blagoy Ivanov 0 34 of 61 55% 39 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:02
3 Augusto Sakai 0 21 of 49 42% 21 of 49 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 32 of 62 51% 34 of 64 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:26
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Augusto Sakai 66 of 125 52% 47 of 105 18 of 19 1 of 1 52 of 107 12 of 15 2 of 3
Blagoy Ivanov 78 of 161 48% 35 of 105 28 of 38 15 of 18 62 of 144 14 of 15 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Augusto Sakai 15 of 27 55% 9 of 21 6 of 6 0 of 0 10 of 22 5 of 5 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 12 of 38 31% 3 of 24 4 of 8 5 of 6 10 of 35 2 of 3 0 of 0
2 Augusto Sakai 30 of 49 61% 20 of 39 9 of 9 1 of 1 24 of 39 4 of 7 2 of 3
Blagoy Ivanov 34 of 61 55% 18 of 40 9 of 13 7 of 8 23 of 50 9 of 9 2 of 2
3 Augusto Sakai 21 of 49 42% 18 of 45 3 of 4 0 of 0 18 of 46 3 of 3 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 32 of 62 51% 14 of 41 15 of 17 3 of 4 29 of 59 3 of 3 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked May 27, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Augusto Sakai

Big Brady picks Augusto Sakai to win a very close decision. He thinks Sakai will land more volume and that Ivanov's grappling game plan is unlikely to materialize since Ivanov hasn't used takedowns much in the UFC. He notes that both fighters have great chins and have never been finished, so he expects a boring heavyweight fight that goes to the judges. He admits it's a close fight and wouldn't be surprised if Ivanov gets the decision.

"I'm going to side with Sakai to win by a very very close decision"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 29, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Augusto Sakai

Daniel picks Sakai, citing his improvements in diet and conditioning, his muay thai skills, and his ability to pressure and outwork Ivanov. He notes that Ivanov is one-dimensional, only countering with left hands, and that Sakai's volume and durability will be key. He believes Sakai can either knock out Ivanov or win a decision.

"i think sakai is the younger man the taller man the guy with the longer reach the guy that throws more volume the more durable guy"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 23, 2020 (7 days before fight)
Augusto Sakai

The MMA Guru picks Augusto Sakai to win by first-round TKO. He compares Sakai to Derrick Lewis but with better technique and more fight IQ. He predicts Sakai will push Ivanov against the cage and land knees and elbows in the clinch for a finish.

Sakai by TKO in round 1
"August osika is gonna push block away up against a cage blast knees to the body blast elbows in the clinch getting the finish in the first round"
LOSS vs Derrick Lewis
Decision (split) (30–27, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 244: Masvidal vs. Diaz · Nov 02, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Derrick Lewis 0 31 of 68 45% 32 of 69 1 of 3 33% 0 0 2:07
Blagoy Ivanov 0 20 of 38 52% 61 of 83 3 of 6 50% 1 0 3:22
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Derrick Lewis 0 8 of 18 44% 9 of 19 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:54
Blagoy Ivanov 0 4 of 5 80% 23 of 24 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:44
2 Derrick Lewis 0 14 of 29 48% 14 of 29 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:13
Blagoy Ivanov 0 9 of 16 56% 13 of 22 2 of 2 100% 1 0 1:33
3 Derrick Lewis 0 9 of 21 42% 9 of 21 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 7 of 17 41% 25 of 37 0 of 2 0% 0 0 1:05
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Derrick Lewis 31 of 68 45% 21 of 54 8 of 11 2 of 3 9 of 27 22 of 41 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 20 of 38 52% 12 of 27 7 of 10 1 of 1 12 of 24 8 of 14 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Derrick Lewis 8 of 18 44% 5 of 13 3 of 5 0 of 0 2 of 5 6 of 13 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 4 of 5 80% 1 of 2 3 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 2 3 of 3 0 of 0
2 Derrick Lewis 14 of 29 48% 10 of 25 2 of 2 2 of 2 3 of 9 11 of 20 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 9 of 16 56% 6 of 11 2 of 4 1 of 1 5 of 10 4 of 6 0 of 0
3 Derrick Lewis 9 of 21 42% 6 of 16 3 of 4 0 of 1 4 of 13 5 of 8 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 7 of 17 41% 5 of 14 2 of 3 0 of 0 6 of 12 1 of 5 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Derrick Lewis vs. Blagoy Ivanov

Round 1
Heavyweights are set to throw down as Lewis (21-7, 1 NC; 12-5 UFC) attempts to become the first fighter to ever knock out the
incredibly durable and fearless
Ivanov (18-2, 1 NC; 2-1 UFC). Attempting to keep a lid on this 522.4-pound potential slugfest is referee Todd Anderson. They touch gloves, and Lewis immediately walks down Ivanov. The Bulgarian keeps his distance, pawing out a right jab to figure out his range, and chants of "USA" rain down from the crowd. Lewis whiffs on a low kick, but Ivanov is unable to capitalize on it as he tries to feint his way in. Lewis stalks down Ivanov and tries to cork a right hand, but instead throws a body kick. Ivanov catches it and pulls Lewis down, where he steps right into side control and looks to set up a crucifix position before yanking on Lewis' arm. Lewis explodes to his feet and throws everything he has into a few punches that catch Ivanov square. Ivanov is hurt, but he shakes it off, so Lewis throws a head kick that makes him fall over. In the clinch, shockingly Lewis shoots in for a takedown, and he hits it. Ivanov stands back up without much effort, while Lewis leans heavy on his opponent. Ivanov pulls into a Thai plum and fires a knee up the middle, and "The Black Beast" eats it without issue. Hanging tight on one another, they occasionally separate to throw a punch or two, and Ivanov tries to throw Lewis over his hip but Lewis stays upright. Lewis swings heavy with right hands, and as Ivanov breaks free, he trades right back. We return to the center of the cage, and seem content on trying to set up that huge overhand shot -- Lewis with his right, and Ivanov with his left. Neither score it, although Ivanov aims at the body once, and the horn sounds. Close round put in by these two to start things off.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Lewis
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Lewis
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Lewis

Round 2
The second round begins with chants of "Let's go Lewis," but neither man react to it, until Ivanov slams a big left hook directly on Lewis' chin. The Texan wears it well and tries to clinch up, and on the break barely misses with a big uppercut. Lewis lands a decent leg kick, and then leaps in to crack Ivanov with punches. With his back against the fence, Ivanov unloads some bombs and appears to briefly hurt Lewis. "The Black Beast" throws wildly, and takes a moment to rest, so Ivanov takes him down. Right into side control, Ivanov aims to secure a keylock, but Lewis holds a thumbs-up to indicate that he is alright. Like the first round, Lewis bursts out of the position and stands up, and follows that with serious hooks that bloody up Ivanov under both of his eyes. The Bulgarian survives the brunt of the assault and circles away, before they take a break in the center of the cage. Ivanov crashes forward into the clinch and brings up a solid knee before throwing a couple uppercuts. Lewis cracks Ivanov with a huge knee, and Ivanov practically shrugs it off and walks Lewis down. A lead right hand is followed by two lefts from Ivanov, and Lewis stays calm and takes it on the jaw while trying to catch his breath. With seconds left, Ivanov throws Lewis to the ground and pulls for a guillotine. It is not tight, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Lewis
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Lewis
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov

Round 3
The final round begins tentatively, with the two touching gloves and taking their time to engage. Finally, Ivanov leads in with a right and then a looping left, but Lewis is out of the way in time. Lewis chambers a right hand and finally sends it Ivanov's direction, but it does not find the target. Ivanov digs to the body with a few punches, so Lewis fires back with a big right that misses as well. The Bulgarian initiates the clinch, and although he lands a knee and a few uppercuts, the pace has waned significantly between these two large men. Ivanov almost trips Lewis to the ground, but Lewis regains his footing and reacts to a faked shot from Ivanov. Lewis swings with all his might in an uppercut that would make a Mortal Kombat player blush, but it merely blows the hair back from those in the front row. Lewis whiffs with a big right, but he lands a knee, and rushes in to take Ivanov down. Ivanov cannot set up a choke, so Lewis pops out and throws a vicious right hand that Ivanov ducks. The Bulgarian briefly considers changing levels to get Lewis down but there is nothing doing, so he instead goes after a few short uppercuts. Lewis tries to fire back with an elbow, but it glances off the side of Ivanov's head. With 15 seconds left, the crowd roars to life as the two men trade wildly. Lewis tags Ivanov with a right hand and then a knee, and this fight comes to a glorious end. The scorecards could be all over the map in this fight, as these rounds have been very close. The scores delivered by our official scorers may not quite reflect how just close this fight played out.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Lewis (30-27 Lewis)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Lewis (30-27 Lewis)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Lewis (29-28 Lewis)

The Official Result
Derrick Lewis def. Blagoy Ivanov via Split Decision (30-27, 28-29, 29-28)
WIN vs Tai Tuivasa
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 238: Cejudo vs. Moraes · Jun 08, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Blagoy Ivanov 0 64 of 144 44% 66 of 146 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:38
Tai Tuivasa 1 73 of 123 59% 81 of 131 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:38
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Blagoy Ivanov 0 14 of 37 37% 15 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:48
Tai Tuivasa 1 22 of 34 64% 23 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:30
2 Blagoy Ivanov 0 27 of 62 43% 27 of 62 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:24
Tai Tuivasa 0 30 of 54 55% 30 of 54 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:07
3 Blagoy Ivanov 0 23 of 45 51% 24 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:26
Tai Tuivasa 0 21 of 35 60% 28 of 42 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Blagoy Ivanov 64 of 144 44% 39 of 114 6 of 7 19 of 23 50 of 126 14 of 18 0 of 0
Tai Tuivasa 73 of 123 59% 65 of 114 7 of 8 1 of 1 62 of 111 5 of 6 6 of 6
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Blagoy Ivanov 14 of 37 37% 10 of 32 1 of 1 3 of 4 9 of 32 5 of 5 0 of 0
Tai Tuivasa 22 of 34 64% 20 of 31 2 of 3 0 of 0 16 of 28 1 of 1 5 of 5
2 Blagoy Ivanov 27 of 62 43% 17 of 51 1 of 1 9 of 10 24 of 57 3 of 5 0 of 0
Tai Tuivasa 30 of 54 55% 27 of 51 3 of 3 0 of 0 30 of 53 0 of 1 0 of 0
3 Blagoy Ivanov 23 of 45 51% 12 of 31 4 of 5 7 of 9 17 of 37 6 of 8 0 of 0
Tai Tuivasa 21 of 35 60% 18 of 32 2 of 2 1 of 1 16 of 30 4 of 4 1 of 1
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Tai Tuivasa vs. Blagoy Ivanov

Round 1
The first fight of the pay-per-view portion of UFC 238 is a heavyweight bout between Tai Tuivasa and Blagoy Ivanov. The referee is Dan Miragliotta. They touch gloves and the fight is on. Tuivasa with a low kick. He moves forward but Ivanov circles away. Tuivasa clips Ivanov with a straight right. They clinch against the cage. Tuivasa connects on a short elbow in the clinch. He continues to lean on Ivanov against the cage. They break. Ivanov lands a right hook and drops Tuivasa. Ivanov is now looking for the neck of Tuivasa but Tuivasa recovers quickly and clinches up with Ivanov again. Ivanov has the neck of Tuivasa and uses it to turn Tuivasa against the fence. They break. Tuivasa lands a knee to the body. Ivanov with a straight left hand. Ivanov lands a right hook that wobbles Tuivasa, who responds with a nice 1-2 combination. Ivanov lands a straight right. He lands a straight left and backs Tuivasa up once again. The round soon comes to a close.

Sherdog Scores
Adam Martin scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov
Ant Walker scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov

Round 2
Round two begins. Ivanov clips Tuivasa with a straight left again. Jab by Ivanov. Tuivasa rocks Ivanov with a straight right. Ivanov is on wobbly legs and could be in serious trouble. Ivanov manages to clinch up and regain his composure. Low kick by Tuivasa. Ivanov lands a straight left. Another straight left by Ivanov. Jab by Ivanov. Tuivasa lands a jab of his own. Ivanov backs Tuivasa against the fence. Tuivasa lands a 1-2 on Ivanov. Jab by Tuivasa. He lands a nasty low kick. Ivanov with a straight left. Both guys are very tired and very slow right now. Ivanov lands a 1-2 of his own. Left straight to the body by Ivanov. Another jab by Ivanov. Tuivasa returns with one of his own. Low kick by Tuivasa. They clinch up. Ivanov is able to drag Tuivasa down to the ground and actually taps Tuivasa out with a guillotine choke but it was after the bell.

Sherdog Scores
Adam Martin scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov
Ant Walker scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov

Round 3
Round three begins. Tuivasa comes out with a jab but Ivanov moves forward and clubs him with a right hook. Tuivasa lands a right hook on Ivanov. They clinch up. Ivanov takes the neck of Tuivasa and drags him to the mat. Tuivasa gets back to his feet but Ivanov continues to lean into him against the cage. They jockey positions against the cage. Ivanov starts to knee Tuivasa in the body. They break. Tuivasa likely needs a finish if he wants to get his hand raised. Tuivasa lands an overhand right and Ivanov returns with a straight left. Another straight left by Ivanov. He lands another left hand, which has been money for him the whole fight. Low kick by Tuivasa. Both guys are absolutely exhausted right now. Jab by Ivanov. The fight comes to a close with both men absolutely exhausted. Terrible fight and you have to question the UFC’s decision to put this on the main card.

Sherdog Scores
Adam Martin scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov (30-27 Ivanov)
Ant Walker scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov (30-27 Ivanov)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Ivanov (30-27 Ivanov)

The Official Result
Blagoy Ivanov def. Tai Tuivasa via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 30-27, 30-27)
WIN vs Ben Rothwell
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. dos Santos · Mar 09, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Blagoy Ivanov 0 72 of 178 40% 73 of 179 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ben Rothwell 0 70 of 163 42% 70 of 163 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Blagoy Ivanov 0 19 of 39 48% 19 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ben Rothwell 0 9 of 22 40% 9 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Blagoy Ivanov 0 29 of 75 38% 29 of 75 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ben Rothwell 0 28 of 59 47% 28 of 59 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Blagoy Ivanov 0 24 of 64 37% 25 of 65 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Ben Rothwell 0 33 of 82 40% 33 of 82 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Blagoy Ivanov 72 of 178 40% 50 of 156 19 of 19 3 of 3 70 of 175 2 of 3 0 of 0
Ben Rothwell 70 of 163 42% 47 of 135 6 of 10 17 of 18 69 of 162 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Blagoy Ivanov 19 of 39 48% 11 of 31 8 of 8 0 of 0 17 of 37 2 of 2 0 of 0
Ben Rothwell 9 of 22 40% 4 of 17 0 of 0 5 of 5 9 of 22 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Blagoy Ivanov 29 of 75 38% 24 of 70 4 of 4 1 of 1 29 of 75 0 of 0 0 of 0
Ben Rothwell 28 of 59 47% 21 of 48 2 of 6 5 of 5 28 of 59 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Blagoy Ivanov 24 of 64 37% 15 of 55 7 of 7 2 of 2 24 of 63 0 of 1 0 of 0
Ben Rothwell 33 of 82 40% 22 of 70 4 of 4 7 of 8 32 of 81 1 of 1 0 of 0
Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 50–45, 50–45) R5 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: dos Santos vs. Ivanov · Jul 14, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Junior dos Santos 0 110 of 248 44% 110 of 248 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 51 of 229 22% 51 of 229 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Junior dos Santos 0 8 of 28 28% 8 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 5 of 26 19% 5 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Junior dos Santos 0 26 of 48 54% 26 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 6 of 38 15% 6 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Junior dos Santos 0 19 of 48 39% 19 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 8 of 45 17% 8 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
4 Junior dos Santos 0 20 of 57 35% 20 of 57 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 15 of 59 25% 15 of 59 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
5 Junior dos Santos 0 37 of 67 55% 37 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Blagoy Ivanov 0 17 of 61 27% 17 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Junior dos Santos 110 of 248 44% 66 of 170 41 of 75 3 of 3 110 of 248 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 51 of 229 22% 40 of 213 10 of 15 1 of 1 49 of 227 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Junior dos Santos 8 of 28 28% 2 of 11 5 of 16 1 of 1 8 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 5 of 26 19% 4 of 23 1 of 3 0 of 0 5 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Junior dos Santos 26 of 48 54% 16 of 30 9 of 17 1 of 1 26 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 6 of 38 15% 3 of 35 2 of 2 1 of 1 6 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Junior dos Santos 19 of 48 39% 16 of 38 3 of 10 0 of 0 19 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 8 of 45 17% 6 of 40 2 of 5 0 of 0 8 of 45 0 of 0 0 of 0
4 Junior dos Santos 20 of 57 35% 12 of 43 8 of 14 0 of 0 20 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 15 of 59 25% 13 of 57 2 of 2 0 of 0 15 of 59 0 of 0 0 of 0
5 Junior dos Santos 37 of 67 55% 20 of 48 16 of 18 1 of 1 37 of 67 0 of 0 0 of 0
Blagoy Ivanov 17 of 61 27% 14 of 58 3 of 3 0 of 0 15 of 59 2 of 2 0 of 0
Expert Picks (5)
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Jan 29, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Big Brady calls this a messy fight and expects it to go to a greasy decision. He picks the underdog Ivanov because he is more durable and has never been finished, while Tybura has been finished multiple times. He is not confident and advises against betting.

over 2.5 rounds, fight goes to decision
"I'm gonna take even off to win a very greasy split decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Blagoy Ivanov

Cody picks Ivanov at plus money, calling it a close heavyweight fight. He believes Ivanov has a slight edge in technical boxing and volume. He notes both fighters are low-volume and durable, expecting a decision. He took Ivanov at +130 and thinks the fight is essentially 50-50, so he takes the underdog.

"I took the plus money at plus 130... I think he's got a maybe a slight Edge in uh in like technical boxing a slight Edge in volume"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Feb 2, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Connor picks Marcin Tybura, expecting a split decision. He notes that Tybura is more proactive with kicks and combinations, and will likely be the one initiating clinch exchanges. However, he acknowledges Ivanov's durability and defensive wrestling, which could make the fight ugly. Connor is confident it will be a split decision but leans Tybura due to higher output.

split decision
"I am absolutely confident that this will be a split decision... I got to assume that Tibora just being more proactive is going to win in this fight."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Feb 1, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Paul picks Tybura, arguing that Ivanov has looked slow and predictable in recent fights. He notes Ivanov's poor cardio and lack of takedown attempts, while Tybura has good cardio and mobility for a heavyweight. He expects Tybura to outwork Ivanov, especially in the later rounds. He also likes the under on Tybura 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks.

Tybura under 1.5 takedowns (PrizePicks)
"I went the other way I just can't get behind blah boy anymore... gotta go the other way here in marcine Tabor but middling heavyweights expect the worst"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Feb 2, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Marcin Tybura

Zane picks Marcin Tybura, agreeing that it will be a split decision. He notes that Tybura has better tools at range and is more likely to control the clinch. However, he warns that Ivanov's power and chin could cause an upset if Tybura gets hurt. Zane sees Tybura's improved composure as a key factor.

split decision
"I am absolutely confident that this will be a split decision... I got to assume that Tibora just being more proactive is going to win in this fight."