vs
-163 +155
UFC 279: Diaz vs. Ferguson · Sep 10, 2022 · Catchweight (180 lb) · Completed
Prev Fight UFC 279: Diaz vs. Ferguson Next Fight
Age 39
Height 6' 1"
Reach 74.0"
Weight 170 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Age 38
Height 6' 0"
Reach 71.0"
Weight 170 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Daniel Rodriguez
7.2 SLpM
49.0% Str. Acc.
5.4 SApM
57.0% Str. Def.
0.51 TD Avg
50.0% TD Acc.
64.0% TD Def.
0.1 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Li Jingliang
4.46 SLpM
42.0% Str. Acc.
3.95 SApM
56.0% Str. Def.
1.19 TD Avg
41.0% TD Acc.
60.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Daniel Rodriguez
Moneyline
BetWay -163
KO/TKO
BetRivers +325
Submission
BetRivers +1500
Decision
FanDuel +185
Li Jingliang
Moneyline
Caesars +155
KO/TKO
BetRivers +350
Submission
FanDuel +2800
Decision
BetRivers +390
Daniel Rodriguez - Fight History
WIN vs Kevin Holland
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC 318: Holloway vs. Poirier 3 · Jul 19, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Daniel Rodriguez 1 82 of 173 47% 111 of 207 1 of 4 25% 0 0 2:07
Kevin Holland 2 77 of 149 51% 111 of 189 0 of 1 0% 0 0 3:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Daniel Rodriguez 0 40 of 83 48% 40 of 83 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:12
Kevin Holland 0 29 of 60 48% 32 of 63 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Daniel Rodriguez 0 12 of 28 42% 34 of 51 1 of 3 33% 0 0 1:05
Kevin Holland 2 31 of 55 56% 44 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:40
3 Daniel Rodriguez 1 30 of 62 48% 37 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:50
Kevin Holland 0 17 of 34 50% 35 of 53 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:54
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Daniel Rodriguez 82 of 173 47% 53 of 126 13 of 22 16 of 25 60 of 137 17 of 27 5 of 9
Kevin Holland 77 of 149 51% 49 of 106 13 of 26 15 of 17 54 of 107 6 of 7 17 of 35
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Daniel Rodriguez 40 of 83 48% 20 of 50 6 of 12 14 of 21 39 of 81 1 of 2 0 of 0
Kevin Holland 29 of 60 48% 12 of 30 8 of 19 9 of 11 28 of 59 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Daniel Rodriguez 12 of 28 42% 8 of 21 3 of 4 1 of 3 7 of 21 4 of 6 1 of 1
Kevin Holland 31 of 55 56% 27 of 51 1 of 1 3 of 3 12 of 22 5 of 6 14 of 27
3 Daniel Rodriguez 30 of 62 48% 25 of 55 4 of 6 1 of 1 14 of 35 12 of 19 4 of 8
Kevin Holland 17 of 34 50% 10 of 25 4 of 6 3 of 3 14 of 26 0 of 0 3 of 8
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Kevin Holland vs. Daniel Rodriguez
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Holland (-395), Rodriguez (+310)

Round 1
The busiest athlete in the company these days, Holland (28-13, 1 NC; 15-10, 1 NC UFC) is entering into his fourth fight of the year in the middle of July. Looking for his third win in a row, he tangles with 10th Planet rep Rodriguez (19-5, 9-4 UFC), who is also doing the same. One of their streaks must end in the next three rounds or fewer, and referee Mike Beltran will be the first to know. Possibly a victory or two from reaching the top 10, the welterweights bump fists knowing this could be the start of something significant.
Holland immediately starts talking, asking Rodriguez if he is a winner. Rodriguez ignores him and comes out swinging, hurling his left hook several times at “Trailblazer.” Holland springs out of the way and circles away to not get caught with anything noteworthy, and he stays on the outside slamming kicks to Rodriguez’ front leg. Rodriguez blitzes his opponent, and Holland grabs hold of him and turns him around in the clinch. Rodriguez breaks free, and once again he is faced with the taller, longer man reaching his kicks at him. The two get tied up again, and they both let hands fly for a moment. Rodriguez reaches with his left, and he parries a head kick that comes up in a hurry. Holland jabs the body with the ball of his foot, and Rodriguez retaliates with a chopping calf kick. Rodriguez lands a low kick, and Holland recoils his limb and wings it back at his foe. Both fighters attack the body, and then trade low kicks.
Holland tags his foe at the end of a right hand and a quick left, which sets up three more punches over the top. Holland clips Rodriguez with an overhand right, and a foul is ignored as both men just want to trade. Holland turns his hips and busts Rodriguez in the chops with a side kick, and he is quick to have to defend an oncoming Rodriguez who throws hard at him. Both fighters appear to graze the cup with kicks, and Holland rolls with a combo and dings Rodriguez with a right hand on the forehead. The Californian grits his teeth and connects with a left hook that destabilizes his opponent. Holland gets up and rushes backwards to the fence to recover, doing so long enough to get his bearings again. When he reengages, Holland takes a jab on the chin and still manages to get Rodriguez with an elbow. Rodriguez lands a big left, and Holland chains several punches together to get him back. Rodriguez puts hands on the Texan once more, and he blocks a head kick in the nick of time. Two more kicks to the body from “Trailblazer” wrap up the first round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez

Round 2
The welterweights touch gloves to get started in the second stanza, and Rodriguez aims to the front leg first as Holland tries to check it. Holland defends a combination of punches by trying to tie Rodriguez up, and Rodriguez is able to shuck him off and punch him square in the face. Rodriguez measures a big left hand that rocks “Trailblazer,” who goes down in a heap. Rodriguez jumps on top of his wounded opponent, laying into him with ground-and-pound until he advances to side control. Rather than do anything further on the mat, Rodriguez backs off and makes Holland stand. Holland is quick to shoot for a double, and Rodriguez tosses him aside and bludgeons him with more big hammers. “D-Rod” knocks Holland to his seat a second time, pouncing to get into the guard so he can try to finish the job. Rodriguez passes to half guard, slugging Holland into the face every so often while Holland looks to control the wrist. Holland thinks about a guillotine choke off his back, but Rodriguez punches his way out of it.
Holland tries to isolate an arm for an armbar setup, and Rodriguez breaks out of it and stands. Holland follows him and blasts him in the face with a right hand, only for Rodriguez to tank it and swing back fearlessly. Holland scores hard again with an overhand right, and Rodriguez ignores it and comes back swinging. The Texan ducks under and hits a double, putting Rodriguez flat on his back with about 100 seconds to go. Holland stays tightly pressed on Rodriguez while in half guard, and he attacks the body and head when sitting up. Rodriguez tries to sit up too, and Holland has a trap for him in the form of a slick brabo choke. Rodriguez, the jiu-jitsu practitioner, shakes off the choke but is drilled with a left hand and an elbow. Holland shoots for another takedown, pushing Rodriguez to the fence and falling into a guillotine choke. Holland stands up to get out of it, his face bloodied, and he does not care as he smacks Rodriguez with a jump knee. The round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Rodriguez

Round 3
The fighters share a last glove touch and get right to business. Rodriguez floats a low kick, darting away when Holland advances with body shots. Rodriguez swipes his way forward with a left to the liver, and he has a one-two bash Holland on the side of the head. Holland whiffs on a right hand up top and a head kick on the same side, and he sways back as Rodriguez gives chase. Rodriguez blitzes his opponent, clacking heads with his opponent on the way in. Rodriguez goes the body, prompting Holland to go straight at him with fists flying. Rodriguez beats the Texan to the punch, until Holland grits his teeth and knocks Rodriguez clean off his feet with a short but nasty uppercut. Rodriguez survives the ground strikes when hitting the ground to stand back up, and Holland wraps up a standing brabo choke. Rodriguez breaks out of it, and Holland attacks with the fury of a thousand suns. Battering Rodriguez with winging punches, jump knees, mean-spirited uppercuts and anything else he can offer, Holland has Rodriguez on the ropes. Rodriguez throws back with bad intentions, and Holland’s knee rocks him to his core.
A desperate Rodriguez tries to take the fight down, and Holland hurls him to his knees and is quick to force a back take. Holland wraps up a rear-naked choke but it is around the side, and Rodriguez is able to slide out of it and push past a triangle choke. Holland uses a high guard to hold on with a triangle choke that is more of a high guard than anything, and Rodriguez grabs the fence to get out of it. Beltran slaps his hands out of the cage grab, and Rodriguez advances to side control and then full mount with a minute to go. Rodriguez starts raining down a bombardment of punches, with Holland pushing off the cage wall with his feet while shelling up to guard his face. Holland rolls all the way over and shoots for a takedown of his own, and Rodriguez defends with a power guillotine choke and pushes Holland over to his back. “D-Rod” reassumes full mount after releasing the choke, sitting up to smack Holland around until time expires. This could have used two more rounds, as the crowd goes wild after 15 titillating minutes of magnificent melee.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Holland (29-28 Rodriguez)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Holland (29-28 Rodriguez)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Holland (29-28 Rodriguez)

The Official Result
Daniel Rodriguez def. Kevin Holland via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 13, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

Angelo picks Kevin Holland, citing his speed, power, and accuracy at welterweight. He notes that Daniel Rodriguez is a pure boxer with no takedown threat, so Holland's takedown defense won't be tested. He expects Holland to run through Rodriguez.

"Kevin Holland absolutely smokes here. He's faster, he's cleaner, he's more powerful."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jul 15, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

Big Brady confidently picks Kevin Holland, noting Rodriguez's age (38), recent poor performances, and lack of wrestling. He believes Holland's height, reach, and power will lead to a first-round knockout. He dismisses Rodriguez's prison fight experience as irrelevant.

Holland by first round knockout
"Give me Kevin Holland to win this fight by first round knockout."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

Connor picks Holland because he is significantly faster than Rodriguez, who appears slower than ever. He notes that Holland always has a high work rate even in his worst performances, while Rodriguez's recent wins have come against equally old and beatable opponents. He sees this as a straightforward win for Holland.

"I have to pick Kevin Holland. No matter what."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

The host sees this as a great stylistic matchup for Holland, expecting him to pick apart Rodriguez from distance and utilize his speed and stinging power to line up a knockout.

knockout
"I expect him to pick apart Rodriguez from distance and I think he can utilize his speed and stinging power to eventually line up a knockout getting that victory over Daniel Rodriguez."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 16, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

The MMA Guru picks Kevin Holland over Daniel Rodriguez, predicting a decision win. He notes Holland's durability, reach advantage (7 inches), and better cardio, while Rodriguez is described as a scrapper with bad fight IQ. The Guru believes Holland will out-point Rodriguez over three rounds, possibly with a late finish, but expects it to go the distance. He also mentions a prop bet that the fight will last more than 10 minutes.

Fight lasts more than 10 minutes (prop bet mentioned earlier in transcript)
"I'm going to go with Kevin Holland over Daniel Rodriguez."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Jul 17, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Kevin Holland

Zane agrees with Connor, stating that Holland is significantly faster and that Rodriguez's recent performances against older fighters show he is not a threat. He notes that Holland's worst performances still have high work rate, making him a safe pick.

"It just feels like a shoe-in for Kevin Holland."
KO R3 1:12 · UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Figueiredo · May 03, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Santiago Ponzinibbio 0 49 of 111 44% 50 of 115 1 of 8 12% 0 0 0:44
Daniel Rodriguez 1 66 of 166 39% 70 of 170 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Santiago Ponzinibbio 0 15 of 35 42% 15 of 35 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:02
Daniel Rodriguez 0 35 of 81 43% 35 of 81 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:07
2 Santiago Ponzinibbio 0 27 of 60 45% 28 of 64 1 of 6 16% 0 0 0:42
Daniel Rodriguez 0 22 of 63 34% 26 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Santiago Ponzinibbio 0 7 of 16 43% 7 of 16 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Daniel Rodriguez 1 9 of 22 40% 9 of 22 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Santiago Ponzinibbio 49 of 111 44% 31 of 83 6 of 16 12 of 12 49 of 111 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 66 of 166 39% 39 of 131 20 of 25 7 of 10 64 of 164 1 of 1 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Santiago Ponzinibbio 15 of 35 42% 5 of 19 3 of 9 7 of 7 15 of 35 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 35 of 81 43% 20 of 61 13 of 16 2 of 4 34 of 80 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Santiago Ponzinibbio 27 of 60 45% 21 of 51 3 of 6 3 of 3 27 of 60 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 22 of 63 34% 13 of 53 6 of 6 3 of 4 22 of 63 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Santiago Ponzinibbio 7 of 16 43% 5 of 13 0 of 1 2 of 2 7 of 16 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 9 of 22 40% 6 of 17 1 of 3 2 of 2 8 of 21 0 of 0 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 27, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Angelo picks Daniel Rodriguez, expecting him to be the cleaner striker and apply forward pressure. He notes that Ponzinibbio tends to get busted up and that Rodriguez can take over after the first round. He also mentions a potential over 1.5 rounds bet if available.

Interested in over 1.5 rounds if available
"Daniel Rodriguez is the pick."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Apr 29, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Big Brady leans slightly toward Daniel Rodriguez in a close fight between two aging fighters. He notes that Ponzinibbio's durability is questionable, as he wobbles when hit, while Rodriguez has better volume and durability at this stage. However, both are 38 and have looked rough recently. Brady expects a competitive fight that goes the distance, with judges likely favoring Rodriguez based on optics.

Fight goes the distance
"I'm going to ever so slightly lean into D-Rod just based off of the volume advantage."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked May 1, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

Connor agrees with Zane, emphasizing that Ponzinibbio's power and pressure will be too much for Rodriguez. He notes that Rodriguez is a slow starter and a slow mover, making it unlikely he can hurt Ponzinibbio consistently. Connor points out that Ponzinibbio has retained his ability to knock people out even when fights are going poorly, while Rodriguez's offense has diminished.

Same odds commentary as Zane.
"I'm picking the Ponz as well."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked May 1, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

Ponzinibbio has slowed and his durability is a concern, but Rodriguez doesn't have the power to exploit that. Ponzinibbio will dictate the pace, land more impactful shots, and win a decision.

"I think that we'll see Ponzibio dictate the pace of this matchup, land more impactful shots and eventually make it look good enough for the scorecards so that he can get his hand raised by decision."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

The MMA Guru picks Santiago Ponzinibbio, describing him as a lifelong martial artist who is more well-rounded than Daniel Rodriguez, whom he calls a 'street dude with hands.' He believes Ponzinibbio will win a decision by getting takedowns at the end of rounds to sway judges. He notes that Rodriguez has declined due to injuries and poor grappling decisions.

decision win
"I'm going to go with Santiago Pon Nibia. I think he wins a decision and people aren't going to like it."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked May 1, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

Zane picks Ponzinibbio, noting that despite his decline, he retains a clear process of pressure boxing and fight-changing power. He contrasts this with Rodriguez, who is slower and less sharp as a counterpuncher. Zane expects Ponzinibbio to start slow but take over by round three, swarming Rodriguez with combinations. He believes Rodriguez lacks the offensive potential to put Ponzinibbio away and will be outworked.

Odds are nearly even: Ponzinibbio -111, Rodriguez -103.
"I expect by round three Ponzinibbio is just going to be absolutely conquering and swarming in the way we've seen him in a lot of his recent fights."
WIN vs Alex Morono
Decision (split) (28–29, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Royval vs. Taira · Oct 12, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Daniel Rodriguez 0 123 of 257 47% 126 of 260 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:56
Alex Morono 0 74 of 257 28% 91 of 276 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Daniel Rodriguez 0 25 of 56 44% 25 of 56 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Morono 0 31 of 81 38% 31 of 81 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Daniel Rodriguez 0 44 of 99 44% 44 of 99 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Morono 0 23 of 91 25% 23 of 91 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Daniel Rodriguez 0 54 of 102 52% 57 of 105 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:56
Alex Morono 0 20 of 85 23% 37 of 104 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Daniel Rodriguez 123 of 257 47% 44 of 153 56 of 80 23 of 24 117 of 251 6 of 6 0 of 0
Alex Morono 74 of 257 28% 58 of 228 9 of 21 7 of 8 74 of 256 0 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Daniel Rodriguez 25 of 56 44% 7 of 32 11 of 17 7 of 7 25 of 56 0 of 0 0 of 0
Alex Morono 31 of 81 38% 20 of 67 5 of 8 6 of 6 31 of 81 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Daniel Rodriguez 44 of 99 44% 19 of 65 18 of 27 7 of 7 44 of 99 0 of 0 0 of 0
Alex Morono 23 of 91 25% 20 of 83 2 of 7 1 of 1 23 of 91 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Daniel Rodriguez 54 of 102 52% 18 of 56 27 of 36 9 of 10 48 of 96 6 of 6 0 of 0
Alex Morono 20 of 85 23% 18 of 78 2 of 6 0 of 1 20 of 84 0 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Oct 6, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Angelo makes a low-confidence pick for Daniel Rodriguez, citing Alex Morono's unreliability. He notes that Morono is the overall better fighter but can never be trusted. Angelo suggests a plus 3.5 bet on Morono instead, as he believes Morono can win at least one round. He does not bet the moneyline on either fighter.

Considering plus 3.5 bet on Alex Morono if plus money
"The wildly low confidence pick will be Daniel because you just cannot trust Alex morono."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 10, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Big Brady picks Daniel Rodriguez to win by decision, but notes he needs to see the weigh-ins to confirm. He criticizes Morono's awful performance against Niko Price, where he was gassed after one minute, and notes Morono is on short notice again. He thinks Rodriguez is the better striker and less washed, though both are declining. If Morono looks bad on the scale, Brady would change his pick to a knockout. He expects a decision but is open to a finish if Morono looks terrible.

Rodriguez by decision; if Morono looks awful, change to knockout
"I'm picking D Rod regardless I think he's the better Striker quicker harder hitter and looks less less washed"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Oct 10, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Rodriguez is a technical brawler who throws combinations and sets up shots, while Morono is a bad athlete who relies on game planning. He points out that Morono's jab is his best weapon but Rodriguez hits harder and is more durable. Connor expects Rodriguez to win a competitive fight.

Same odds commentary.
"Got to go with d rod agreed. But I like the fight a lot because oh, yeah the fight that morono will hang in he will keep it competitive."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Oct 8, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Daniel notes that Rodriguez has declined significantly in speed and reflexes, as seen in the Kelvin Gastelum fight, but he still has a speed advantage over Morono, who has never been fast. He thinks Rodriguez's jab and straight punches will get there first against Morono's wild overhands. However, he is not confident and expects the fight to be closer than the odds suggest.

"Sure, pure pick I'll go with D Rod because historically he does have a big speed advantage... but there's a potential this fight plays out closer than the line indicates."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 11, 2024 (1 day before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Rodriguez is more well-rounded and technical than Morono. Morono uses footwork but will struggle with Rodriguez's counters and straight shots down the pipe. Rodriguez will walk Morono down, land big strikes, and win on the scorecards.

"I think Rodriguez will do a good job in terms of walking Morono down landing his big strikes and winning this fight on the scorecards"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 8, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

The MMA Guru picks Daniel Rodriguez, criticizing Alex Morono for lacking talent, athleticism, and fast-twitch fibers. He praises Rodriguez's crisp, technical boxing and power, and expects a TKO in the second round. He dismisses Morono's grappling and overall game, calling him a 'flabby soft no Talent having hard worker'.

TKO second round
"I'm going to go with D Rod getting this one done way crisper boxing way more technical boxing way Slicker boxing way more power I'm going to say D Rod gets this one done by TKO second round"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Oct 10, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Zane picks Rodriguez because he believes Rodriguez's power and durability will be too much for Morono. He notes that Morono often struggles against athletic fighters with power, and Rodriguez, despite being messy, has the tools to outwork and hurt Morono. Zane thinks Morono may have moments but will eventually get cracked.

Rodriguez opened at -190, now -201; Morono opened at +167, now +176.
"I'm still inclined to take rodriguez. It just feels like to me i've seen too many times where morono can get into a fight like this where you're like oh, yeah. No, you've got the right idea to hang with …"
LOSS vs Kelvin Gastelum
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Whittaker vs. Aliskerov · Jun 22, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Kelvin Gastelum 0 112 of 238 47% 123 of 250 4 of 4 100% 0 0 2:47
Daniel Rodriguez 0 127 of 265 47% 132 of 273 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Kelvin Gastelum 0 44 of 93 47% 45 of 94 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Daniel Rodriguez 0 46 of 91 50% 46 of 92 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Kelvin Gastelum 0 37 of 86 43% 39 of 88 2 of 2 100% 0 0 0:25
Daniel Rodriguez 0 53 of 113 46% 53 of 113 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Kelvin Gastelum 0 31 of 59 52% 39 of 68 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:17
Daniel Rodriguez 0 28 of 61 45% 33 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Kelvin Gastelum 112 of 238 47% 77 of 193 14 of 20 21 of 25 105 of 226 0 of 0 7 of 12
Daniel Rodriguez 127 of 265 47% 82 of 214 36 of 41 9 of 10 127 of 265 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Kelvin Gastelum 44 of 93 47% 27 of 70 6 of 10 11 of 13 44 of 93 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 46 of 91 50% 25 of 67 15 of 17 6 of 7 46 of 91 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Kelvin Gastelum 37 of 86 43% 27 of 72 4 of 6 6 of 8 37 of 86 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 53 of 113 46% 38 of 97 13 of 14 2 of 2 53 of 113 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Kelvin Gastelum 31 of 59 52% 23 of 51 4 of 4 4 of 4 24 of 47 0 of 0 7 of 12
Daniel Rodriguez 28 of 61 45% 19 of 50 8 of 10 1 of 1 28 of 61 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Jun 20, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Kelvin Gastelum

Angelo picks Kelvin but is hesitant, calling him a waste of talent. He acknowledges Kelvin's raw talent, chin, and wrestling, but notes he is undedicated and has missed weight. He points to Kelvin's last fight where he was outwrestled by Sean Brady despite being a D1 wrestler. He thinks Kelvin should win but cannot trust him, especially at -260. He will not bet on Kelvin.

No bet; odds too high for an unreliable fighter
"Kelvin gastam is a giant waste of talent but Talent is the key word he is very good... I'm still going to lean Kelvin I'm going to trust him but I'm not spending you can't spend money on this guy"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Kelvin Gastelum

Big Brady picks Kelvin Gastelum confidently, believing Daniel Rodriguez is on the decline due to fight miles and prison fights. He notes Gastelum's wrestling as a potential path and expects a decision win. Despite the steep -250 line, Brady thinks it makes sense if Rodriguez is truly fading.

"give me Kelvin gastam by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Kelvin Gastelum

Cody picks Gastelum, emphasizing his southpaw advantage and ability to mix in takedowns. He notes Rodriguez's volume striking but believes Gastelum's power and pressure will be decisive, especially given Rodriguez's recent layoff and age. He expects a decision win.

"gum is going to win he is going to likely win a decision"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jun 20, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Daniel Vreeland picks Daniel Rodriguez as a confident underdog. He notes Gastelum's tendency to be in close fights and his lack of discipline (weight issues, love for tacos). He believes Rodriguez has the size, reach, and volume to push a pace and win a decision. He also mentions Gastelum's wrestling advantage but doubts he will use it.

"I'm gonna go with the plus 200 dog here I'm gonna go with D Rod to to win a probably a decision against uh Kelvin Gaston"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Hesitant picked Jun 20, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Kelvin Gastelum

Jacob picks Kelvin but is not confident, calling the -250/-260 odds crazy. He thinks Kelvin should be around -125 to -130. He notes Kelvin's last fight showed he forgot how to wrestle, and he might just stand and trade with Rodriguez, which could be competitive. He might have some action on Rodriguez as a dog. He believes Kelvin is the pick but not a betting favorite at those odds.

Might bet Rodriguez as a dog
"minus 250 minus 260 for a guy like Kelvin gastam at this point it's like what are we doing... I believe El Kelvin should be the favorite I would price it likeus 125 minus 130 something like that"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

JP hesitantly picks Rodriguez by decision, citing his reach advantage and ability to keep Gastelum stalled. He worries about Gastelum's speed but lacks trust in Gastelum's recent performances. Brevan disagrees, picking Gastelum by decision, citing Gastelum's wrestling advantage and ability to score takedowns in later rounds. Brevan finds the fight dangerous from a betting perspective but leans Gastelum. JP is less confident and may avoid betting.

Fight goes to decision
"I think I'm going to go with Rodriguez by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Jun 19, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Kelvin Gastelum

Paul picks Gastelum but with hesitation, hoping he uses his wrestling. He notes that if it becomes a striking match, it could be close. Paul points to Gastelum's low output and Rodriguez's volume as potential issues, but believes Gastelum's overall skills should prevail.

"Gastelum will be the pick but I hope he wrestles"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jun 18, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Kelvin Gastelum

The MMA Guru picks Kelvin Gastelum over Daniel Rodriguez, citing Gastelum's superior boxing and underrated ground game. He notes that Rodriguez's striking looked lousy against Neil Magny and that his wins are over lower-level opponents. He believes Gastelum can mix in grappling and that Rodriguez's age (37) and layoff are factors. He expresses frustration that Gastelum is a favorite, as he wanted an underdog pick, but still goes with Gastelum by decision or submission.

by decision, maybe a rear naked choke
"I'm going to go Kelvin Gastelum here is he an underdog I wonder if he's an underdog here he might be I'd like it if he was he's a [__] favorite [__] off why is he a big favorite man."
TKO (head kick and punches) R1 2:57 · UFC on ABC: Rozenstruik vs. Almeida · May 13, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ian Machado Garry 0 7 of 25 28% 7 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Daniel Rodriguez 1 23 of 46 50% 23 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:10
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ian Machado Garry 0 7 of 25 28% 7 of 25 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Daniel Rodriguez 1 23 of 46 50% 23 of 46 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:10
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ian Machado Garry 7 of 25 28% 2 of 17 2 of 5 3 of 3 7 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 23 of 46 50% 19 of 42 4 of 4 0 of 0 12 of 28 0 of 0 11 of 18
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ian Machado Garry 7 of 25 28% 2 of 17 2 of 5 3 of 3 7 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 23 of 46 50% 19 of 42 4 of 4 0 of 0 12 of 28 0 of 0 11 of 18
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked May 7, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Angelo picks Daniel Rodriguez with low confidence, calling him a great striker especially when not worried about takedowns. He notes Ian Garry is hittable and keeps his head straight up. He says Rodriguez will be the best striker Garry has faced and that Garry may not recover from being tagged like he did against Kanaan. He is not betting on this fight.

"with no confidence at all I'm gonna pick Daniel Rodriguez it's a low confidence pick"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked May 8, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Big Brady thinks this fight is closer than the odds suggest. He notes Garry's striking defense is a liability, citing past fights where he got hit clean. Brady believes Rodriguez has the durability and volume to make it competitive, and expects a 15-minute striking fight that goes to decision. He picks the dog Rodriguez to pull off the upset, but acknowledges the UFC likely wants Garry to win and corrupt judges may favor him. He calls laying -300 on Garry 'whack'.

goes to decision
"I'm gonna take the dog here and Danny Rodriguez to pull it off but I already know what's gonna happen I think d ross gonna make this super close it's gonna look like a super close fight and then the …"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked May 10, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Cody picks Rodriguez as a value underdog, despite low confidence. He notes Rodriguez's experience and volume, but acknowledges Garry's speed and potential. He thinks Rodriguez could expose Garry's defensive flaws, but is not confident enough to bet heavily. He calls it a 'value pick' and places it at the bottom of his confidence list.

"I'm gonna end up taking the dog Daniel Rodriguez but it would be the PRP pick like it would be all the way at the bottom the confidence level isn't quite there but it's a value pick and and I …"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked May 11, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Ian Machado Garry

Connor picks Garry, emphasizing his fast start and ability to build momentum. He notes that Garry's low kicks will be a problem for Rodriguez, who hasn't faced good kickers. He thinks Rodriguez will have moments and may hurt Garry, but Garry's consistency and movement will earn him the win. He also mentions Garry's jab and straight punches as key tools.

"I think this looks like a fight where Gary is just going to have the consistency of work. It's going to be a lot of targets to pick from."
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 11, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Ian Machado Garry

Daniel Levi picks Ian Machado Garry, praising his confidence, striking volume, and well-rounded game. He notes that Garry has landed over 100 significant strikes in multiple fights and has knockdowns in three of his four UFC bouts. Levi believes Garry's speed and reach will be key, as Rodriguez does not have a reach or height advantage. He acknowledges Garry was dropped in his last fight but attributes that to facing a heavy hitter in Song Kenan, and notes that Rodriguez has also been dropped. Levi sees Garry winning a competitive fight, possibly even becoming the first to knock out Rodriguez.

possible first UFC knockout of Rodriguez; missed betting at -215/-225; would bet if line improves
"I'm going Ian Gary and I hope that all these people that were acting like it's red panty night that d-rod's a big dog put their money where their mouth is"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 8, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Ian Machado Garry

Garry is the better striker, using distance, kicks, and a one-two down the pipe to pick apart Rodriguez. He is 11 years younger and trains at Kill Cliff FC. He may also look to take the fight to the ground to avoid Rodriguez's power. The fight will resemble Garry's win over Gabe Green, with Garry landing more consistently and winning by decision. Rodriguez is a tough test but Garry's youth and skill should prevail.

"I think the Irishman is going to be able to come through here put on a good striking display and win this fight by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked May 10, 2023 (3 days before fight)
Ian Machado Garry

Paul picks Garry, noting his reach, technique, and cardio. He expects a close decision win for Garry, as Rodriguez doesn't have the skill set to expose him. He mentions adding Garry to a parlay at -250 but not a big play. He doubts Rodriguez's wrestling and believes Garry's speed and lateral movement will be key.

added to parlay at -250
"I think it's gonna be one of those things where the fight goes to decision and Ian Gary it's kind of you know very very close decision Ian Gary gets on the mic afterwards pretends that like you know he …"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 9, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Ian Machado Garry

The MMA Guru picks Ian Machado Garry, highlighting his diverse striking and leg kicks. He notes that Daniel Rodriguez is a boxing-heavy fighter who stands heavy on his lead leg, making him vulnerable to leg kicks. He believes Garry will overwhelm Rodriguez with a variety of attacks and predicts a 30-27 decision.

decision 30-27
"I'm gonna go with Ian Gary... I think he's going to chop up that leg and start out boxing him... I'm gonna go with Ian Gary getting this one by decision 30-27"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked May 11, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Ian Machado Garry

Zane picks Garry, citing his speed, footwork, and exceptional low kicking. He notes that Rodriguez is slow and has poor leg defense, and Garry's ability to build offense over time will be key. He acknowledges Rodriguez's counter-punching and durability but thinks Garry's consistency and volume will win out. He also mentions Garry's jab and low kicks as major advantages.

"I'm taking Gary still, but once again, it could be that prospect loss."
LOSS vs Neil Magny
Submission (D'Arce choke) R3 3:33 · UFC Fight Night: Rodriguez vs. Lemos · Nov 05, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Neil Magny 0 57 of 109 52% 106 of 169 5 of 7 71% 1 0 4:08
Daniel Rodriguez 0 66 of 108 61% 71 of 113 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:16
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Neil Magny 0 22 of 39 56% 38 of 59 2 of 3 66% 0 0 1:37
Daniel Rodriguez 0 20 of 36 55% 21 of 37 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:15
2 Neil Magny 0 27 of 52 51% 33 of 59 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:27
Daniel Rodriguez 0 35 of 53 66% 37 of 55 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:22
3 Neil Magny 0 8 of 18 44% 35 of 51 3 of 4 75% 1 0 2:04
Daniel Rodriguez 0 11 of 19 57% 13 of 21 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:39
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Neil Magny 57 of 109 52% 38 of 85 16 of 21 3 of 3 46 of 94 10 of 14 1 of 1
Daniel Rodriguez 66 of 108 61% 36 of 76 15 of 17 15 of 15 63 of 103 3 of 3 0 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Neil Magny 22 of 39 56% 14 of 29 6 of 8 2 of 2 16 of 31 5 of 7 1 of 1
Daniel Rodriguez 20 of 36 55% 5 of 19 6 of 8 9 of 9 20 of 36 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Neil Magny 27 of 52 51% 18 of 41 8 of 10 1 of 1 22 of 45 5 of 7 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 35 of 53 66% 25 of 43 6 of 6 4 of 4 32 of 50 3 of 3 0 of 0
3 Neil Magny 8 of 18 44% 6 of 15 2 of 3 0 of 0 8 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
Daniel Rodriguez 11 of 19 57% 6 of 14 3 of 3 2 of 2 11 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 2
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 30, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Neil Magny

Angelo picks Magny, citing his well-roundedness and the many factors against Rodriguez: a close fight many thought he lost, a quick turnaround, and a staph infection that prevented training. He notes Magny is more well-rounded overall and expects him to get it done.

"I like Neil magni to get it done"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Nov 1, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Big Brady favors Rodriguez's striking speed and volume, expecting him to stuff Magny's takedowns and keep the fight at range. He notes concerns about Rodriguez's recent injury and weight cut but believes he will win a decision. He sees Magny's path to victory as a grinding fight, but doubts he can implement it.

Rodriguez wins by decision
"I think it's a winnable fight for dros I'm gonna take diron to win I'll take the drought to win by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Cody picks Daniel Rodriguez to edge a close competitive decision. He notes that Magny relies heavily on wrestling and controlling opponents against the cage, but at 35, his takedown success is declining, as seen against Max Griffin (1 for 8) and Shavkat Rakhmonov. Rodriguez has good takedown defense and pops back up quickly, as shown against Jingliang and Kevin Lee. Rodriguez also has superior volume, landing high significant strikes in his fights, while Magny's output is lower because he focuses on grappling. In the Apex, the acoustics favor the volume striker, so Rodriguez should win by decision.

Daniel Rodriguez by decision
"I will take him and I'll try to fancy it up a little bit probably by taking him by decision"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Daniel Levi picks Daniel Rodriguez, noting he bet him at +100 for two units. He believes Rodriguez has crisper, more meaningful strikes and that Magny may be on the decline, citing the Max Griffin fight where Magny was dropped and the Shavkat fight where he had no success. He warns that Rodriguez must avoid being lulled into Magny's clinch-heavy game, but thinks Rodriguez's cardio and boxing give him the edge.

Bet 2 units at +100
"give me Dira to put two units on him at Plus 100."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 31, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Neil Magny

The host likes Magny's pace, pressure, and cardio, believing he can outwork Rodriguez. He notes Magny's win over Jeff Neal (a better striker) as a positive indicator. He expects Magny to use dirty clinch, kicks, and volume to win a decision, and sees value on the moneyline.

Magny by decision
"I do like Neo magni here a decent bit you know taking the straight up money line shot on him is not a bad idea"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Paul agrees with Cody, noting that Magny's jabs are often not counted as significant strikes, so his total strikes may be misleading. He points out that judges are rewarding bigger, cleaner shots over volume of jabs, which favors Rodriguez. He also questions whether Magny can dominate the grappling, as he has struggled against better grapplers. Paul picks d-rod for the same reasons.

"d-rod for me as well really comes down to volume or good volume"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 2, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

The MMA Guru picks Daniel Rodriguez, believing Magny's prime is past due to injuries and recent performances. He notes Rodriguez has underrated takedown defense and will outbox Magny, who relies on straight punches. He predicts a KO in round two, citing Magny's loss to Max Griffin and Rodriguez's full camp advantage.

KO in round 2
"I'm going d-rod... outboxing magnet range and maybe finding a KO in round two at some point."
WIN vs Li Jingliang
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 279: Diaz vs. Ferguson · Sep 10, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Daniel Rodriguez 0 78 of 175 44% 78 of 175 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:02
Li Jingliang 0 88 of 185 47% 89 of 186 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Daniel Rodriguez 0 27 of 54 50% 27 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 0 20 of 40 50% 20 of 40 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Daniel Rodriguez 0 24 of 59 40% 24 of 59 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:02
Li Jingliang 0 34 of 66 51% 35 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Daniel Rodriguez 0 27 of 62 43% 27 of 62 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 0 34 of 79 43% 34 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Daniel Rodriguez 78 of 175 44% 25 of 103 23 of 34 30 of 38 78 of 174 0 of 0 0 of 1
Li Jingliang 88 of 185 47% 54 of 140 17 of 23 17 of 22 88 of 185 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Daniel Rodriguez 27 of 54 50% 7 of 29 8 of 11 12 of 14 27 of 54 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 20 of 40 50% 10 of 27 6 of 7 4 of 6 20 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Daniel Rodriguez 24 of 59 40% 8 of 33 5 of 10 11 of 16 24 of 58 0 of 0 0 of 1
Li Jingliang 34 of 66 51% 19 of 45 5 of 8 10 of 13 34 of 66 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Daniel Rodriguez 27 of 62 43% 10 of 41 10 of 13 7 of 8 27 of 62 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 34 of 79 43% 25 of 68 6 of 8 3 of 3 34 of 79 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2022 (4 days before fight)

Angelo picks Kevin Holland, noting he will be bigger, more powerful, and more accurate. He thinks Holland's accuracy is laser-pinpoint and he has a grappling advantage if the fight goes to the ground. He acknowledges Rodriguez is more technical but believes Holland's power and accuracy will be the difference.

"I am going to go with Kevin here I think he's going to be bigger I think he's going to be more powerful I think he's more accurate I don't think he's the more technical striker but I do think …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 8, 2022 (2 days before fight)

Big Brady picks Kevin Holland to win by decision, citing Holland's seven-inch reach advantage and superior technical striking. He acknowledges Daniel Rodriguez's toughness and volume but notes Rodriguez has not faced a striker of Holland's caliber. He expects a competitive fight but believes Holland's power and reach will be decisive.

"It's Kevin Holland for me here I'll say Kevin Holland by decision."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Cody is leaning towards Tony Ferguson as a dog, noting that Li Jingliang is an average fighter who struggles as a favorite. He believes Ferguson's competition level is much higher and that the move to welterweight helps Ferguson. He likes the under 1.5 takedowns for Li on PrizePicks, as he doesn't think Li will shoot. He picks Ferguson at +270.

Li Jingliang under 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks
"i'm leaning towards ferguson so for the purpose of this show at plus 270 ferguson will be my pick"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Daniel Levi leans Kevin Holland in this catchweight bout. He cites Holland's seven-inch reach advantage and six-year age edge, plus his speed at the new weight class. However, he worries about Holland's reckless charges and poor takedown defense, and acknowledges Rodriguez's boxing and counter-punching. Levi says it's a tough call and he wouldn't be surprised if Rodriguez wins.

Over 2.5 rounds at -110 mentioned as a possibility
"I lean kevin holland but it would not surprise me one bit to see uh danielle rodriguez come out here and get this dove."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Jacob picks Daniel Rodriguez, comparing it to the Nathaniel Wood vs Charles Jourdain fight where the more technical striker won. He thinks Rodriguez's technical boxing will give Holland issues, as Holland has not faced a technical striker like Rodriguez. He notes Holland's wins are against lesser competition and Rodriguez will piece him up.

"I see this exactly and I mean to a T like the Nathaniel Wood and Charles Jourdain fight... Daniel Rodriguez is the Nathaniel Wood of this matchup he's going to be the more technical striker."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Sep 9, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Li Jingliang

The host leans Li Jingliang but is tempted by Tony Ferguson as a live underdog. He expects Li to win by KO but notes Ferguson's durability and submission threat. He warns against parlaying Li and suggests the KO line at +110.

Li Jingliang by KO (+110)
"I am picking Lee to win by KO but it's such a close fight... I would rather point you towards this KO line at +110."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Paul picks Tony Ferguson, agreeing that Li Jingliang is overrated as a favorite. He notes Ferguson's speed, volume, and grappling advantage, and that Li's takedown defense is not a concern. He believes Ferguson's experience against top competition gives him the edge, and that Li's path to victory is a lucky punch. He is surprised by the size of the dog odds.

"i think tony ferguson has a solid shot here and i'm actually just surprised like the size of dog that he is"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2022 (fight day)
Li Jingliang

The MMA Guru picks Li Jingliang to win by TKO at the end of the second round. He describes Li coming out with leg kicks, while Rodriguez gets his jab going. Rodriguez lands better punches in the first round, but Li takes them well. In round two, Li's pressure increases, and after Rodriguez commits to shots, Li dips under and lands a left hook, putting Rodriguez down and finishing with TKO.

TKO at the end of the second round
"Legion Liang sees him coming dips under it lands a big shot lands a left hook and puts down d-rod and finishes him by TKO at the end of the second round"
WIN vs Kevin Lee
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Barboza vs. Chikadze · Aug 28, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Daniel Rodriguez 0 56 of 160 35% 74 of 181 3 of 7 42% 0 0 3:34
Kevin Lee 0 120 of 210 57% 137 of 229 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:45
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Daniel Rodriguez 0 13 of 44 29% 31 of 65 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:59
Kevin Lee 0 16 of 40 40% 21 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Daniel Rodriguez 0 23 of 51 45% 23 of 51 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:33
Kevin Lee 0 51 of 84 60% 60 of 95 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:41
3 Daniel Rodriguez 0 20 of 65 30% 20 of 65 1 of 4 25% 0 0 1:02
Kevin Lee 0 53 of 86 61% 56 of 89 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Daniel Rodriguez 56 of 160 35% 39 of 134 12 of 21 5 of 5 55 of 157 0 of 0 1 of 3
Kevin Lee 120 of 210 57% 87 of 175 7 of 8 26 of 27 113 of 202 0 of 0 7 of 8
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Daniel Rodriguez 13 of 44 29% 7 of 36 5 of 7 1 of 1 12 of 41 0 of 0 1 of 3
Kevin Lee 16 of 40 40% 8 of 31 1 of 2 7 of 7 16 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Daniel Rodriguez 23 of 51 45% 20 of 45 2 of 5 1 of 1 23 of 51 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kevin Lee 51 of 84 60% 36 of 69 4 of 4 11 of 11 45 of 77 0 of 0 6 of 7
3 Daniel Rodriguez 20 of 65 30% 12 of 53 5 of 9 3 of 3 20 of 65 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kevin Lee 53 of 86 61% 43 of 75 2 of 2 8 of 9 52 of 85 0 of 0 1 of 1
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Angelo picks Rodriguez but is cautious, citing his crisp boxing, takedown defense, and cardio. He notes Lee has two bad knees and is moving up in weight. He thinks a healthy Lee would win, but the matchup favors Rodriguez. He has Rodriguez in his DraftKings lineup at 7700.

Angelo likes the less less on monkey knife fight.
"i think daniel rodriguez will out point a very frustrated kevin lee in this fight"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Lee

Cody picks Lee, believing that at 170 pounds Lee will have better cardio and can use his wrestling. He notes Lee's talent and that this is a step down in competition. Cody thinks Lee's wrestling will be effective against Rodriguez, who fishes for submissions off his back. He is slightly worried about the size disparity but overall likes Lee as a favorite.

"minus 150 kevin lee seems pretty solid to me like that's a good line"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Lee

Jacob picks Lee, citing his talent and the move to welterweight helping his cut. He believes Lee will get the fight to the ground and submit or TKO Rodriguez. He is surprised Lee is a +150 favorite and thinks he finds a way to win.

"i like kevin lee in this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 27, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Kevin Lee

Lock picks Kevin Lee by decision at +215, believing Lee's grappling advantage will be decisive. He thinks Lee can secure takedowns in the first two rounds and at least one in the third, controlling the fight. Lock is concerned about Lee's cardio but notes it's a three-round fight and Rodriguez doesn't push a high pace. He sees Rodriguez as competent off his back but not a submission threat.

Lee by decision +215
"i do think kevin lee uh eeks this fight out with the decision okay maybe eek is a little bit of an exaggeration i do think he wins this fight via decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Lee

Paul picks Lee, citing his wrestling and the fact that Rodriguez is taking the fight on short notice. He thinks Lee's best path is wrestling, and that Rodriguez's 10th Planet jiu-jitsu is mostly off his back. Paul is concerned about Lee's weight cuts but believes at 170 he'll perform better. He says he'll watch weigh-ins before betting.

"i'll uh i'll go with the favorite here minus 150 kevin the motown phenom lee"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Hesitant picked Aug 22, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Kevin Lee

The Guru picks Kevin Lee after flipping back and forth, ultimately trusting Lee's wrestling and reach advantage. He notes that Rodriguez took the fight on short notice while eating hot dogs at Disneyland, which affects his preparation. The Guru predicts a rear-naked choke in the first or second round, but acknowledges Rodriguez could win by TKO in the later rounds if it goes that far.

Lee by submission (rear-naked choke) in round 1 or 2
"i'm gonna go with kevin lee rear naked choke first or second round i'm trusting in kevin lee here"
Li Jingliang - Fight History
LOSS vs Carlos Prates
KO (punches) R2 4:02 · UFC 305: du Plessis vs. Adesanya · Aug 18, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Carlos Prates 0 41 of 111 36% 41 of 111 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:23
Li Jingliang 3 55 of 84 65% 55 of 84 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Carlos Prates 0 26 of 66 39% 26 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 1 25 of 36 69% 25 of 36 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
2 Carlos Prates 0 15 of 45 33% 15 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:23
Li Jingliang 2 30 of 48 62% 30 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Carlos Prates 41 of 111 36% 12 of 64 4 of 10 25 of 37 41 of 111 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 55 of 84 65% 44 of 70 1 of 3 10 of 11 55 of 84 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Carlos Prates 26 of 66 39% 7 of 38 4 of 9 15 of 19 26 of 66 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 25 of 36 69% 18 of 27 1 of 2 6 of 7 25 of 36 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Carlos Prates 15 of 45 33% 5 of 26 0 of 1 10 of 18 15 of 45 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 30 of 48 62% 26 of 43 0 of 1 4 of 4 30 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 11, 2024 (7 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

Angelo is confident Carlos Prates will win, citing his dangerous striking, power, range control, and eight consecutive knockout wins. He thinks Prates is faster and cleaner on the feet than Li Jingliang, who is older and coming off a two-year layoff. His only hesitation is Li's durability, but he believes Prates will find his spot and finish him.

"Carlos prattes is going to be the pick and uh this is just a really tough welcome back after a two-year layoff for Jing Lang Lee."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 14, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

Big Brady picks Carlos Prates to win by decision. He notes Prates is a hot prospect from Fighting Nerds with a lot of hype, but this is a step up in competition. He highlights red flags for Li Jingliang: a long layoff (almost 2 years), a spine surgery, and age (36). He believes Prates will do better work across 15 minutes, landing bigger shots and having more moments. He acknowledges Li is next-level tough and durable, so he doesn't expect a knockout, but thinks Prates will outpoint him.

decision
"I'm going to take proess to win this fight and I'm going to take him to win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Aug 14, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Li Jingliang

Cody likes Jingliang's forward pressure, durability, and experience, but is concerned about his two-year layoff and major back surgery. He notes that Prates is a low-volume striker who relies on knockouts, and that Jingliang's chin and volume could cause problems. However, he admits the red flags are significant and calls it a PRP pick.

"I'm actually going to take Jing leang Lee but it'll be the PRP pick"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

Vreeland picks Prates, highlighting his pattern of downloading information before finishing opponents. He notes Prates' superior range control and length advantage over Li. He predicts a knockout, specifically a body shot, as Li is notoriously durable but Prates will pick him apart.

Knockout by body shot (prediction, no line mentioned)
"PES is the pick here download and then probably knock out right yeah I I think although Lee is notoriously not a real easy guy to knock out um but I I wouldn't be surprised listen to this prediction I'm …"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

Daniel Vreeland picks Carlos Prates to win, predicting he will be the first to knock out Li Jingliang. He highlights Prates' reach advantage, power, and patient striking style, while noting that Li Jingliang is coming off a layoff and may have declined. Vreeland acknowledges the price is high but believes Prates is the rightful favorite.

"I'm calling him to be the first person to knock out uh the leech first time he ever gets knocked out"
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Aug 15, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

Fox agrees with Prates, noting his ability to download information and finish. He contrasts Prates' disciplined striking with Li's shorter reach and comfort issues on the feet. He believes Prates controls range better than Daniel Rodriguez and will pick Li apart easily.

"I think pret controls range far better than Daniel Rodriguez who sometimes like gets a little sloppy and mixes it up in a drawing pattern like press is a guy who isn't going to braw he's gonna pick you apart …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Aug 14, 2024 (4 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

The host leans to Prates, citing his technical striking, takedown defense, and activity. He notes Li's power and experience but is concerned about Li's long layoff and spine injury. He expects Prates to win by decision, but warns that a Li knockout would not surprise him.

Prates by decision
"I'm still going to lean prz ... I'm going to go proess by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Aug 14, 2024 (4 days before fight)

Paul discusses Prates' smoking habit and low volume, and Jingliang's spinal issues, concluding that the fight is a pass. He notes that Prates has knockout power but questions his cardio and grappling, while Jingliang's wrestling is a big if due to his back. Paul does not make a clear pick.

"I think it's pretty clearly a pass and watch Lee get absolutely folded"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 12, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Carlos Prates

The MMA Guru picks Carlos Prates over Li Jingliang. He notes that Li has been out for nearly two years due to a broken back and is 36 years old, making it hard to come back. He acknowledges Prates has losses but has been on a run since 2019, beating Trevin Giles and Charles Radtke. He expects Prates to win a 29-28 decision with cleaner shots. He expresses concern about Li's injuries and age.

29-28 decision
"I'm gonna go with Carlos prates over Le Jing leang which hurts but I'm just not going to trust in Le Jing leang to come back"
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 279: Diaz vs. Ferguson · Sep 10, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Daniel Rodriguez 0 78 of 175 44% 78 of 175 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:02
Li Jingliang 0 88 of 185 47% 89 of 186 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Daniel Rodriguez 0 27 of 54 50% 27 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 0 20 of 40 50% 20 of 40 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Daniel Rodriguez 0 24 of 59 40% 24 of 59 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:02
Li Jingliang 0 34 of 66 51% 35 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Daniel Rodriguez 0 27 of 62 43% 27 of 62 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 0 34 of 79 43% 34 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Daniel Rodriguez 78 of 175 44% 25 of 103 23 of 34 30 of 38 78 of 174 0 of 0 0 of 1
Li Jingliang 88 of 185 47% 54 of 140 17 of 23 17 of 22 88 of 185 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Daniel Rodriguez 27 of 54 50% 7 of 29 8 of 11 12 of 14 27 of 54 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 20 of 40 50% 10 of 27 6 of 7 4 of 6 20 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Daniel Rodriguez 24 of 59 40% 8 of 33 5 of 10 11 of 16 24 of 58 0 of 0 0 of 1
Li Jingliang 34 of 66 51% 19 of 45 5 of 8 10 of 13 34 of 66 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Daniel Rodriguez 27 of 62 43% 10 of 41 10 of 13 7 of 8 27 of 62 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 34 of 79 43% 25 of 68 6 of 8 3 of 3 34 of 79 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2022 (4 days before fight)

Angelo picks Kevin Holland, noting he will be bigger, more powerful, and more accurate. He thinks Holland's accuracy is laser-pinpoint and he has a grappling advantage if the fight goes to the ground. He acknowledges Rodriguez is more technical but believes Holland's power and accuracy will be the difference.

"I am going to go with Kevin here I think he's going to be bigger I think he's going to be more powerful I think he's more accurate I don't think he's the more technical striker but I do think …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 8, 2022 (2 days before fight)

Big Brady picks Kevin Holland to win by decision, citing Holland's seven-inch reach advantage and superior technical striking. He acknowledges Daniel Rodriguez's toughness and volume but notes Rodriguez has not faced a striker of Holland's caliber. He expects a competitive fight but believes Holland's power and reach will be decisive.

"It's Kevin Holland for me here I'll say Kevin Holland by decision."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Cody is leaning towards Tony Ferguson as a dog, noting that Li Jingliang is an average fighter who struggles as a favorite. He believes Ferguson's competition level is much higher and that the move to welterweight helps Ferguson. He likes the under 1.5 takedowns for Li on PrizePicks, as he doesn't think Li will shoot. He picks Ferguson at +270.

Li Jingliang under 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks
"i'm leaning towards ferguson so for the purpose of this show at plus 270 ferguson will be my pick"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Daniel Levi leans Kevin Holland in this catchweight bout. He cites Holland's seven-inch reach advantage and six-year age edge, plus his speed at the new weight class. However, he worries about Holland's reckless charges and poor takedown defense, and acknowledges Rodriguez's boxing and counter-punching. Levi says it's a tough call and he wouldn't be surprised if Rodriguez wins.

Over 2.5 rounds at -110 mentioned as a possibility
"I lean kevin holland but it would not surprise me one bit to see uh danielle rodriguez come out here and get this dove."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Jacob picks Daniel Rodriguez, comparing it to the Nathaniel Wood vs Charles Jourdain fight where the more technical striker won. He thinks Rodriguez's technical boxing will give Holland issues, as Holland has not faced a technical striker like Rodriguez. He notes Holland's wins are against lesser competition and Rodriguez will piece him up.

"I see this exactly and I mean to a T like the Nathaniel Wood and Charles Jourdain fight... Daniel Rodriguez is the Nathaniel Wood of this matchup he's going to be the more technical striker."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Sep 9, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Li Jingliang

The host leans Li Jingliang but is tempted by Tony Ferguson as a live underdog. He expects Li to win by KO but notes Ferguson's durability and submission threat. He warns against parlaying Li and suggests the KO line at +110.

Li Jingliang by KO (+110)
"I am picking Lee to win by KO but it's such a close fight... I would rather point you towards this KO line at +110."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Paul picks Tony Ferguson, agreeing that Li Jingliang is overrated as a favorite. He notes Ferguson's speed, volume, and grappling advantage, and that Li's takedown defense is not a concern. He believes Ferguson's experience against top competition gives him the edge, and that Li's path to victory is a lucky punch. He is surprised by the size of the dog odds.

"i think tony ferguson has a solid shot here and i'm actually just surprised like the size of dog that he is"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2022 (fight day)
Li Jingliang

The MMA Guru picks Li Jingliang to win by TKO at the end of the second round. He describes Li coming out with leg kicks, while Rodriguez gets his jab going. Rodriguez lands better punches in the first round, but Li takes them well. In round two, Li's pressure increases, and after Rodriguez commits to shots, Li dips under and lands a left hook, putting Rodriguez down and finishing with TKO.

TKO at the end of the second round
"Legion Liang sees him coming dips under it lands a big shot lands a left hook and puts down d-rod and finishes him by TKO at the end of the second round"
TKO (punches and elbows) R2 4:38 · UFC on ABC: Ortega vs. Rodriguez · Jul 16, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Li Jingliang 1 38 of 87 43% 40 of 91 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:30
Muslim Salikhov 0 23 of 56 41% 33 of 67 1 of 4 25% 0 0 1:10
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Li Jingliang 0 11 of 36 30% 12 of 37 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Muslim Salikhov 0 11 of 22 50% 21 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:07
2 Li Jingliang 1 27 of 51 52% 28 of 54 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:30
Muslim Salikhov 0 12 of 34 35% 12 of 34 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Li Jingliang 38 of 87 43% 13 of 49 12 of 18 13 of 20 30 of 75 6 of 8 2 of 4
Muslim Salikhov 23 of 56 41% 18 of 48 3 of 6 2 of 2 20 of 51 0 of 1 3 of 4
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Li Jingliang 11 of 36 30% 2 of 19 1 of 4 8 of 13 11 of 35 0 of 1 0 of 0
Muslim Salikhov 11 of 22 50% 8 of 17 1 of 3 2 of 2 8 of 18 0 of 0 3 of 4
2 Li Jingliang 27 of 51 52% 11 of 30 11 of 14 5 of 7 19 of 40 6 of 7 2 of 4
Muslim Salikhov 12 of 34 35% 10 of 31 2 of 3 0 of 0 12 of 33 0 of 1 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Jingliang Li vs. Muslim Salikhov
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Salikhov (-175), Li (+150)

Round 1
A place in the top 15 at the ultra-competitive welterweight division will serve as the prize for this “featured” fight of the night. Already the #14 fighter according to the UFC, China’s Li (18-7, 10-5 UFC) will try to keep an iron grip on his ranking spot against the confidently nicknamed “King of Kung Fu” Salikhov (18-2, 5-1 UFC). While Salikhov has earned two-thirds of his career wins by knockout, “The Leech” has never been stopped by strikes, although Salikhov will put that to the test. Referee Dan Miragliotta keeps things on the up-and-up, even as gloves are touched before his eyes. Both fighters circle one another for a time, until Li sits down on a single leg kick. Salikhov answers him with a spinning wheel kick that hammers into the guard. A lull in the action again ensues, until Li darts forward with two looping punches. When those do not land, a leg kick does. Li jabs to the body, and he lifts his leg up but Salikhov still kicks it and makes him spin around. Salikhov jumps with a knee, and then spins with an untelegraphed spinning back kick that Li jumps back and avoids. The spinning strikes are likely going to be the weapon of choice for the Dagestan native for much of this fight. As Li kicks low, Salikhov rushes forward, lifts up the leg and slams the Chinese fighter down to the mat. Li keeps his guard high and tight, shutting down most of the offense that could come at him, and this draws a warning from Miragliotta. Salikhov stacks Li up to break out of the guard, and Li smacks Salikhov with an illegal but uncalled upkick. Salikhov stands back up, and he spins with a back kick that partially lands on the body. Salikhov checks a kick and is well out of harm’s way when Li throws one high. Salikhov swarms forward, but he backs off as Li is ready to greet him with a short right hand. The spinning back fist from Salikhov misses the mark, as Li anticipates it. A spinning back kick from the Russian connects with the arm of his foe, and Li bounces back and forth until trying to sweep the leg. Li wings a left hook, and Salikhov is slick and avoiding everything that soars at or past him. Salikhov sinks a leg kick home on the inside of the knee, and he stuffs an oncoming takedown as the bell rings.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Salikhov
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Salikhov
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Salikhov

Round 2
The welterweights touch ‘em up to start off the second round, and crowd is ready for action and possibly spoiled due to the madness from the Mudaerji-Schnell fight. These two answer the call with a few big punches, and Salikhov catches a leg and knocks Li off his feet with a big left hand. When Li gets up, he just manages to avoid a spinning wheel kick that would have knocked his block off. Li continues coming forward, avoiding a few punches on the way in and swinging his way to close the distance. Salikhov sneaks away but absorbs a jab on the way out. Salikhov come up short with an uppercut from the “Mortal Kombat” playbook, and Li thanks his lucky stars that he did not absorb that momentous blow. The accuracy rates are likely low in this match, as both men are putting almost everything into one-hitter quitters. Li misses with a winging punch, and Salikhov answers him with a low kick. Salikhov checks another kick, and he finds himself facing a body lock takedown attempt. Li manages to wrestle him down, where he lands in half guard but cannot keep him there for more than a few seconds. Salikhov gets up and does not absorb any damage or find himself in danger from any submission, and he plants a one-two on the chin as Li leans over to avoid it. The spinning kick from Salikhov is slower than before, and Li sees it coming from a distance and keeps that distance to avoid it. Li looks for a short counter as Salikhov blitzes him, and Salikhov still connects with a clean right. The spinning kick for Salikhov grazes off the midsection, with Li bouncing back to evade the brunt of the damage.
Li, irritated by the pace, winds up with a monstrous right hand that slams straight into the face of the “King of Kung Fu.” Salikhov is in a bad way as he staggers back, and Li gives him chase and nails him with another. When Salikhov is about to gather himself, Li bullies him back to the wall and ducks down with a jab to the body. Li lets go with a left hook and follows it with a destructive right that sends Salikhov collapsing down to the mat. Knowing the finish is in sight, “The Leech” leaps down and sucks the life out of Salikhov with a pair of ferocious elbows.
Seeing that Salikhov is done like dinner, Miragliotta moves in and stops the fight, even as Salikhov sits up and shrugs at the finishing sequence. This is a solid bounceback victory for Li, who leaps to the top of the cage and holds a Chinese flag high.

The Official Result
Jingliang Li def. Muslim Salikhov R2 4:38 via TKO (Punches and Elbows)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 10, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Muslim Salikhov

Angelo picks Muslim Salikhov confidently, citing his technical striking, power, and takedown threats. He dismisses Li Jingliang as overrated and notes Salikhov's win over Trinaldo. He placed a moneyline bet at -170 and hopes for line movement.

moneyline bet at -170
"i think salakov absolutely gets this done i like the technical striking i like the power i like the takedown threats i think salkov is a clear win i got a money line bet on him at minus 170"
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Jul 12, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Li Jingliang

Big Brady picks Li Jingliang (the Leech) to win by decision, taking the underdog. He notes that Salikhov is a great striker but has low volume and poor cardio, while Li has better cardio and volume. He thinks Li can take over as the fight goes on and possibly mix in takedowns. He admits it's a tough fight to pick and has low confidence.

"i'm gonna take the dog here in the leech to get it done not a ton of confidence"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Jul 13, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Li Jingliang

Cody is leaning towards Li Jingliang as an underdog, citing Salikhov's low volume, questionable cardio, and history of pulling out of fights. He notes that Li has never been knocked out in the UFC and brings a high pace that could overwhelm Salikhov. However, he admits he doesn't have high confidence and acknowledges Salikhov's path to victory via takedowns.

"i think i'm going to take another underdog shot here on the leech but something i don't have a ton of confidence"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Jul 14, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Muslim Salikhov

Daniel Levi leans Muslim Salikhov, citing his discipline, counter-striking, and improved wrestling. He acknowledges Li Jingliang's knockout power and durability but believes Salikhov can win a decision by pacing himself and avoiding brawls. Levi notes Salikhov must be careful of Li's power and that the fight is high variance.

decision win likely; counter-heavy approach
"i'm leaning salak off here it's just i know what we're up against"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 13, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Muslim Salikhov

Paul picks Salikhov, believing he can mix in takedowns to exploit Li's ground game, as seen in Li's losses to Khamzat Chimaev and others. He notes Salikhov's striking is excellent and that he has shown the ability to take down opponents like Francisco Trinaldo. Paul thinks Salikhov's path to victory is clear and that he covers the -160 price.

Salikhov over 1.5 takedowns
"i think salikov if he can mix in those takedowns steal rounds make it a little bit greasy in that respect i think he covers his price at minus 160"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 11, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Li Jingliang

The MMA Guru picks Li Jingliang over Muslim Salikhov, citing Li's power, chin, and cardio advantage. He notes Salikhov's age (38) and unimpressive recent performances, including a close fight with Francisco Trinaldo. He believes Li's unorthodox striking and durability will lead to a decision win or a late finish.

"i'm gonna go with lee jing liang muslim salakov although very good maybe in his heyday back in the 80s um he is 38 years of age"
LOSS vs Khamzat Chimaev
Technical Submission (rear-naked choke) R1 3:16 · UFC 267: Blachowicz vs. Teixeira · Oct 30, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Khamzat Chimaev 0 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 0 25 of 25 100% 58 of 62 1 of 2 50% 3 0 3:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Khamzat Chimaev 0 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Li Jingliang 0 25 of 25 100% 58 of 62 1 of 2 50% 3 0 3:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Khamzat Chimaev 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 25 of 25 100% 25 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 24 of 24
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Khamzat Chimaev 0 of 1 0% 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 25 of 25 100% 25 of 25 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 1 0 of 0 24 of 24
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 26, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Khamzat Chimaev

Big Brady picks Khamzat Chimaev to win by second-round submission. He is very confident, citing Chimaev's dominant performances and wrestling. Li has poor takedown defense (59%) and has been taken down by lesser wrestlers. The only concerns are Chimaev's cardio if the fight extends and the layoff, but he expects an early finish. He agrees with the line.

Chimaev by submission (round 2)
"Give me comments that you may have and give me comments that you might have to to win i'll say i'll say submission i'll say second round submission."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 27, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Khamzat Chimaev

Cody is all in on Chimaev, noting the layoff might have improved his cardio. He thinks Chimaev's pace and wrestling will be too much for Li, who has poor takedown defense (59%). He expects Chimaev to take him down at will and grind him out. He calls it a 'perfect stylistic matchup'.

"this is just such a stylistical perfect matchup"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Oct 28, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Khamzat Chimaev

Daniel picks Khamzat Chimaev, citing his wrestling and power. He acknowledges Li Jingliang's knockout power and history of upsets but believes Chimaev's wrestling will be a big factor. Daniel notes Li takes damage early and has been dropped in fights. He expects Chimaev to grind out a win, possibly by late ground-and-pound stoppage, but warns the line is too high to bet.

comments on line being too high to bet
"i'm gonna stay away from a betting thing i'm gonna just enjoy this one because the line's just too much"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 28, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Khamzat Chimaev

Chimaev should dominate with his wrestling and pressure, but there are concerns about his recovery from COVID and potential cardio issues. He likely finishes early, so the under 1.5 rounds or inside distance are better bets than the moneyline. Li is durable and could capitalize if Chimaev fades.

Chimaev inside distance -165, under 1.5 rounds -110, live bet on Li if fight goes to round 2.
"If you're betting chemiev you might as well take the under one and a half because that's more than likely the way that he wins."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 27, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Khamzat Chimaev

Paul is confident in Chimaev, calling it a 'smash full out'. He notes Li has been taken down by Neil Magny and others, and Chimaev's wrestling will dominate. He thinks the moneyline is safer than inside distance because Chimaev mixes KOs and submissions. He would be stunned if Chimaev loses.

Inside distance -175 (considered but not chosen)
"hamzat hamzat smash um i would be pretty stunned to see him lose this fight"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 24, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Khamzat Chimaev

The MMA Guru picks Khamzat Chimaev to win by submission. He highlights Chimaev's superior grappling and size, noting that Li Jingliang has been outgrappled by lesser grapplers like Neil Magny, Jake Matthews, and Sean Brady. He thinks Chimaev's wrestling and pressure will make Li hesitant to throw. He predicts a second-round rear-naked choke after Chimaev outgrapples Li.

submission in the second round
"she may have outgrapples lee jingliang submits him in the second round with like punches to like a rear naked choke"
KO (punch) R1 4:25 · UFC on ABC: Holloway vs. Kattar · Jan 16, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Li Jingliang 0 11 of 18 61% 11 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Santiago Ponzinibbio 1 21 of 50 42% 21 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Li Jingliang 0 11 of 18 61% 11 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Santiago Ponzinibbio 1 21 of 50 42% 21 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Li Jingliang 11 of 18 61% 7 of 14 0 of 0 4 of 4 11 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
Santiago Ponzinibbio 21 of 50 42% 6 of 30 3 of 6 12 of 14 20 of 49 0 of 0 1 of 1
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Li Jingliang 11 of 18 61% 7 of 14 0 of 0 4 of 4 11 of 18 0 of 0 0 of 0
Santiago Ponzinibbio 21 of 50 42% 6 of 30 3 of 6 12 of 14 20 of 49 0 of 0 1 of 1
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Jan 10, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

Big Brady picks Santiago Ponzinibbio to win by decision, but is hesitant due to the long layoff and injuries. He thinks Ponzinibbio is the much better fighter and will throw more output. He notes that Li has never been knocked out but has been knocked down several times. He mentions the over 1.5 rounds as a good play but says he won't touch it personally. He finds the -275 line a bit steep.

over 1.5 rounds (mentioned as good play but not betting)
"i'm going to take ponzinibb to win by decision here but i'll probably wouldn't lay the minus 275 a little bit steep for me"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Jan 12, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

Daniel Levi leans Santiago Ponzinibbio but conditions his pick on how Ponz looks at weigh-ins due to his serious health layoff. He praises Ponz's calf kicks, straight right, and cardio, and notes Li Jingliang has been knocked down five times. He expects Ponz to set up the straight right with calf kicks, but acknowledges Li's durability and power.

"i got santiago ponzinibbio here but let's pay attention friday see how he looks on the scales"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Jan 11, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

Ponzinibbio is the more educated striker with a great kicking game, especially leg kicks, which he used to beat Neil Magny. However, he is coming off a two-year layoff due to a knee infection, which raises durability and ring rust concerns. Li Jingliang has power and durability, but his striking is less technical. The best bet is the over 1.5 rounds, as both fighters are durable and have not been finished recently. Ponzinibbio should win a decision if he shows up at 50% of his former self.

Over 1.5 rounds is the preferred play; Ponzinibbio by decision is the prediction.
"the spot that i like most in this fight is the over one and a half"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2021 (7 days before fight)
Santiago Ponzinibbio

The MMA Guru picks Santiago Ponzinibbio over Li Jingliang, citing Ponzinibbio's superior technique, leg kicks, and versatility. He uses MMA math comparing their common opponent Neil Magny, noting Ponzinibbio dropped Magny multiple times while Li was dismantled. He predicts a 30-27 unanimous decision, expecting Ponzinibbio to tool Li over three rounds without gassing.

"i'm going to go with santiago ponzinibio in a decision 30-27 win"
LOSS vs Neil Magny
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 248: Adesanya vs. Romero · Mar 07, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Neil Magny 0 74 of 139 53% 123 of 188 4 of 7 57% 0 0 5:04
Li Jingliang 0 16 of 62 25% 16 of 65 2 of 3 66% 0 0 3:38
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Neil Magny 0 12 of 32 37% 21 of 41 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:00
Li Jingliang 0 8 of 23 34% 8 of 24 2 of 3 66% 0 0 1:18
2 Neil Magny 0 26 of 42 61% 58 of 74 2 of 3 66% 0 0 2:17
Li Jingliang 0 1 of 4 25% 1 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 2:07
3 Neil Magny 0 36 of 65 55% 44 of 73 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:47
Li Jingliang 0 7 of 35 20% 7 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:13
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Neil Magny 74 of 139 53% 56 of 118 12 of 15 6 of 6 34 of 96 18 of 20 22 of 23
Li Jingliang 16 of 62 25% 11 of 50 1 of 3 4 of 9 13 of 53 3 of 9 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Neil Magny 12 of 32 37% 7 of 26 4 of 5 1 of 1 8 of 27 3 of 4 1 of 1
Li Jingliang 8 of 23 34% 5 of 15 1 of 2 2 of 6 6 of 19 2 of 4 0 of 0
2 Neil Magny 26 of 42 61% 24 of 40 2 of 2 0 of 0 13 of 28 13 of 14 0 of 0
Li Jingliang 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 0 0 of 0 0 of 1 1 of 3 0 of 0
3 Neil Magny 36 of 65 55% 25 of 52 6 of 8 5 of 5 13 of 41 2 of 2 21 of 22
Li Jingliang 7 of 35 20% 5 of 31 0 of 1 2 of 3 7 of 33 0 of 2 0 of 0
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Mar 5, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Li Jingliang

Daniel is confident Li Jingliang will dominate Neil Magny, citing Magny's decline and inability to handle pressure and low kicks. He notes that Magny has been blown out by relevant opponents and that his last significant win was half a decade ago. He believes Li will chop Magny down with low kicks and close the distance to hurt him, winning a decision or getting a knockout.

Daniel mentions he would have had a 10-unit play on Luque if Magny had fought him, but now Li gets to feast on the carcass. He picks Li via knockout.
"I'm gonna go with Li Jingliang here via knockout."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Mar 5, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Neil Magny

Magny has a huge reach advantage (80 vs 72 inches) and excellent cardio. He will use his jab, kicks, and occasional takedowns to outpoint Li. Li is powerful but lacks pressure; Magny's veteran savvy should carry him to a decision. The host considered betting Li but sees too many X-factors. He likes Magny at plus money and may bet 0.75 units if odds reach +175.

Bet 0.75 units at +175 or better.
"I like Neil here and I might bet him at the plus 175 range... Neil Magny by decision definitely a live dog."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 27, 2020 (9 days before fight)
Li Jingliang

The MMA Guru picks Li Jingliang, citing his recent activity, momentum, and youth advantage over Neil Magny, who hasn't fought since a KO loss to Santiago Ponzinibbio in 2018. He notes Li's win over Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos was impressive and expects Li to finish Magny in the second or third round.

finish in the second or third round
"Li Jing Li I'm getting to finish in the second and third round I think he's got it in him"
TKO (punches) R3 4:51 · UFC Fight Night: Andrade vs. Zhang · Aug 31, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Li Jingliang 3 59 of 128 46% 59 of 128 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:22
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 0 54 of 160 33% 55 of 162 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:24
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Li Jingliang 1 12 of 23 52% 12 of 23 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:09
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 0 11 of 39 28% 11 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:14
2 Li Jingliang 0 24 of 56 42% 24 of 56 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 0 25 of 64 39% 25 of 64 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
3 Li Jingliang 2 23 of 49 46% 23 of 49 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:13
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 0 18 of 57 31% 19 of 59 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:08
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Li Jingliang 59 of 128 46% 45 of 108 4 of 6 10 of 14 47 of 113 8 of 11 4 of 4
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 54 of 160 33% 23 of 114 21 of 33 10 of 13 51 of 156 3 of 4 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Li Jingliang 12 of 23 52% 6 of 15 2 of 3 4 of 5 9 of 20 3 of 3 0 of 0
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 11 of 39 28% 1 of 22 5 of 11 5 of 6 10 of 38 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Li Jingliang 24 of 56 42% 20 of 52 1 of 1 3 of 3 22 of 52 2 of 4 0 of 0
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 25 of 64 39% 10 of 47 11 of 12 4 of 5 23 of 61 2 of 3 0 of 0
3 Li Jingliang 23 of 49 46% 19 of 41 1 of 2 3 of 6 16 of 41 3 of 4 4 of 4
Elizeu Zaleski dos Santos 18 of 57 31% 12 of 45 5 of 10 1 of 2 18 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
WIN vs David Zawada
TKO (body kick and punches) R3 4:07 · UFC Fight Night: Blaydes vs. Ngannou 2 · Nov 24, 2018
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Li Jingliang 1 89 of 222 40% 97 of 234 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:16
David Zawada 1 73 of 184 39% 74 of 185 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:49
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Li Jingliang 0 13 of 41 31% 21 of 53 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:15
David Zawada 1 24 of 55 43% 25 of 56 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:36
2 Li Jingliang 0 40 of 97 41% 40 of 97 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
David Zawada 0 31 of 83 37% 31 of 83 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Li Jingliang 1 36 of 84 42% 36 of 84 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
David Zawada 0 18 of 46 39% 18 of 46 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:13
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Li Jingliang 89 of 222 40% 59 of 183 10 of 11 20 of 28 81 of 204 3 of 12 5 of 6
David Zawada 73 of 184 39% 52 of 159 19 of 23 2 of 2 63 of 162 10 of 20 0 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Li Jingliang 13 of 41 31% 10 of 36 1 of 2 2 of 3 9 of 31 0 of 6 4 of 4
David Zawada 24 of 55 43% 15 of 46 9 of 9 0 of 0 16 of 40 8 of 13 0 of 2
2 Li Jingliang 40 of 97 41% 23 of 77 6 of 6 11 of 14 40 of 95 0 of 2 0 of 0
David Zawada 31 of 83 37% 22 of 72 8 of 10 1 of 1 30 of 80 1 of 3 0 of 0
3 Li Jingliang 36 of 84 42% 26 of 70 3 of 3 7 of 11 32 of 78 3 of 4 1 of 2
David Zawada 18 of 46 39% 15 of 41 2 of 4 1 of 1 17 of 42 1 of 4 0 of 0
Expert Picks (8)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2022 (4 days before fight)
No clear pick

Angelo picks Kevin Holland, noting he will be bigger, more powerful, and more accurate. He thinks Holland's accuracy is laser-pinpoint and he has a grappling advantage if the fight goes to the ground. He acknowledges Rodriguez is more technical but believes Holland's power and accuracy will be the difference.

"I am going to go with Kevin here I think he's going to be bigger I think he's going to be more powerful I think he's more accurate I don't think he's the more technical striker but I do think he's more accurate."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 8, 2022 (2 days before fight)
No clear pick

Big Brady picks Kevin Holland to win by decision, citing Holland's seven-inch reach advantage and superior technical striking. He acknowledges Daniel Rodriguez's toughness and volume but notes Rodriguez has not faced a striker of Holland's caliber. He expects a competitive fight but believes Holland's power and reach will be decisive.

"It's Kevin Holland for me here I'll say Kevin Holland by decision."
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)
No clear pick

Cody is leaning towards Tony Ferguson as a dog, noting that Li Jingliang is an average fighter who struggles as a favorite. He believes Ferguson's competition level is much higher and that the move to welterweight helps Ferguson. He likes the under 1.5 takedowns for Li on PrizePicks, as he doesn't think Li will shoot. He picks Ferguson at +270.

Li Jingliang under 1.5 takedowns on PrizePicks
"i'm leaning towards ferguson so for the purpose of this show at plus 270 ferguson will be my pick"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)
No clear pick

Daniel Levi leans Kevin Holland in this catchweight bout. He cites Holland's seven-inch reach advantage and six-year age edge, plus his speed at the new weight class. However, he worries about Holland's reckless charges and poor takedown defense, and acknowledges Rodriguez's boxing and counter-punching. Levi says it's a tough call and he wouldn't be surprised if Rodriguez wins.

Over 2.5 rounds at -110 mentioned as a possibility
"I lean kevin holland but it would not surprise me one bit to see uh danielle rodriguez come out here and get this dove."
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Sep 6, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Daniel Rodriguez

Jacob picks Daniel Rodriguez, comparing it to the Nathaniel Wood vs Charles Jourdain fight where the more technical striker won. He thinks Rodriguez's technical boxing will give Holland issues, as Holland has not faced a technical striker like Rodriguez. He notes Holland's wins are against lesser competition and Rodriguez will piece him up.

"I see this exactly and I mean to a T like the Nathaniel Wood and Charles Jourdain fight... Daniel Rodriguez is the Nathaniel Wood of this matchup he's going to be the more technical striker."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Sep 9, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Li Jingliang

The host leans Li Jingliang but is tempted by Tony Ferguson as a live underdog. He expects Li to win by KO but notes Ferguson's durability and submission threat. He warns against parlaying Li and suggests the KO line at +110.

Li Jingliang by KO (+110)
"I am picking Lee to win by KO but it's such a close fight... I would rather point you towards this KO line at +110."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2022 (3 days before fight)
No clear pick

Paul picks Tony Ferguson, agreeing that Li Jingliang is overrated as a favorite. He notes Ferguson's speed, volume, and grappling advantage, and that Li's takedown defense is not a concern. He believes Ferguson's experience against top competition gives him the edge, and that Li's path to victory is a lucky punch. He is surprised by the size of the dog odds.

"i think tony ferguson has a solid shot here and i'm actually just surprised like the size of dog that he is"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2022 (fight day)
Li Jingliang

The MMA Guru picks Li Jingliang to win by TKO at the end of the second round. He describes Li coming out with leg kicks, while Rodriguez gets his jab going. Rodriguez lands better punches in the first round, but Li takes them well. In round two, Li's pressure increases, and after Rodriguez commits to shots, Li dips under and lands a left hook, putting Rodriguez down and finishing with TKO.

TKO at the end of the second round
"Legion Liang sees him coming dips under it lands a big shot lands a left hook and puts down d-rod and finishes him by TKO at the end of the second round"