Career Averages - C.J. Vergara
Career Averages - Kleydson Rodrigues
C.J. Vergara
Kleydson Rodrigues
C.J. Vergara - Fight History
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Édgar Cháirez | 0 | 8 of 27 | 29% | 8 of 27 | 0 of 0 | --- | 1 | 0 | 0:16 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 6 of 13 | 46% | 6 of 13 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Édgar Cháirez | 0 | 8 of 27 | 29% | 8 of 27 | 0 of 0 | --- | 1 | 0 | 0:16 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 6 of 13 | 46% | 6 of 13 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Édgar Cháirez | 8 of 27 | 29% | 8 of 25 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 2 | 7 of 25 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 1 |
| C.J. Vergara | 6 of 13 | 46% | 1 of 2 | 0 of 3 | 5 of 8 | 6 of 13 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Édgar Cháirez | 8 of 27 | 29% | 8 of 25 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 2 | 7 of 25 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 1 |
| C.J. Vergara | 6 of 13 | 46% | 1 of 2 | 0 of 3 | 5 of 8 | 6 of 13 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
Play-by-Play
View on SherdogBETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Chairez (-278), Vergara (+225)
Round 1
It is unfortunate that in the year 2025, the UFC is still depositing a match between two fighters with losing records in the promotion this high on its billing. It originally was a bit lower, but when Pyfer vs. Gastelum fell off, this flyweight encounter shifted up to this slot. If there is a silver lining, it is that one of these two will hold the coveted .500 mark in the Octagon at night’s end. Whether that is Chairez (11-6, 1 NC; 1-2, 1 NC UFC) or Vergara (12-6-1, 3-4 UFC), referee Marc Goddard will be the first to know. A respectful glove touch starts things off, and Vergara comes out firing with a one-two that is off the mark. Chairez gets behind his jab, take full advantage of his long reach, and they trade low kicks. Chairez just misses with an uppercut, but his jab is already reddening the face of Vergara. Vergara comes up short on his own offense, and Chairez is able to pick at him from his preferred distance. Jabs continue popping Vergara in the face until calf kicks fly his direction, reddening and welting it in a hurry. Chairez lines up a jab and loops a left hook behind it, flooring Vergara for a moment. Vergara gets back up and tries to escape, but Chairez is on him and backs him to the wall with swinging fists. Vergara drops to his knees, and rather than punch his man out,
the Mexican leaps on Vergara’s back and wraps up a rear-naked choke. The submission is almost instantly tight, but it does not slide underneath the American’s chin and is settled firmly on his jaw. Chairez, destined on keeping his 100% finish rate intact, crushes the face crank with all his might. The sheer horsepower from the squeeze is enough for Vergara to surrender
, and Goddard recognizes the tap and gets between them. The victor, completely overcome with emotion, goes to his corner and then drops to his knees in tears, just now processing what he accomplished in front of thousands of screaming fans. Chairez has the building in the palm of his hands, yet he cannot stop weeping.
The Official Result
Edgar Chairez def. C.J. Vergara R1 2:30 via Submission (Face Crank)
Connor picks Cháirez despite acknowledging his flaws, such as dropping for guillotines and compromising his range. He believes Cháirez is the more likely damage dealer and that Vergara's athletic limitations will be a wall. However, he is not particularly confident due to Cháirez's inconsistency.
Zane picks Cháirez, noting that Vergara's boxing and wrestling game could be effective but that Cháirez's long straight punches and willingness to work in close make him dangerous. He thinks Vergara may get caught stepping back. Zane is not fully confident due to Cháirez's tendency to make bad decisions.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ramazan Temirov | 0 | 4 of 16 | 25% | 4 of 16 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| C.J. Vergara | 3 | 23 of 55 | 41% | 23 of 55 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:05 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ramazan Temirov | 0 | 4 of 16 | 25% | 4 of 16 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| C.J. Vergara | 3 | 23 of 55 | 41% | 23 of 55 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:05 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ramazan Temirov | 4 of 16 | 25% | 1 of 12 | 1 of 1 | 2 of 3 | 4 of 16 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 23 of 55 | 41% | 18 of 46 | 4 of 8 | 1 of 1 | 20 of 50 | 0 of 0 | 3 of 5 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ramazan Temirov | 4 of 16 | 25% | 1 of 12 | 1 of 1 | 2 of 3 | 4 of 16 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 23 of 55 | 41% | 18 of 46 | 4 of 8 | 1 of 1 | 20 of 50 | 0 of 0 | 3 of 5 |
Angelo picks Ramazan Temirov, noting his lightning-fast striking and power. He acknowledges that UFC debuts are tricky, but Temirov seems different with confidence and experience pushing through adversity. Angelo believes Temirov's speed and power will be too much for Vergara, especially if he connects like Daniel Lacerda did. He plans to wait for prop bets before wagering.
Big Brady picks Ramazan Temirov to win by first-round knockout. He notes Temirov is a knockout artist with power, but Vergara is durable and has never been knocked out. However, Vergara was almost knocked out by Daniel da Silva, so Brady thinks Temirov can hurt him. He worries about Temirov's cardio if the fight goes long, but expects early big shots to get the finish. He suggests this could be a good live bet spot if Temirov doesn't finish in the first.
Connor agrees with Zane, noting that Vergara is a very tough test but Temirov's athleticism and ability to land shocking shots give him the edge. He points out that Vergara is slow and not dynamic, and Temirov's scrambling ability makes him hard to hold down. Connor thinks the odds are too wide in Temirov's favor.
This fight was not discussed in the transcript. No picks were made.
Daniel is very high on Temirov's aggressive, spinning attack style and killer instinct, but he worries about a potential debut stun. He notes that Vergara is durable and well-rounded but not exceptional. Daniel believes if Temirov fights with his usual confidence, he will win impressively, possibly even becoming the first to knock out Vergara in the UFC.
Temirov is a much better version of Vergara, both leaning on striking. Temirov is more explosive, faster, and better with footwork, cutting angles to crash the pocket. He should land big strikes and find a knockout within the first two rounds.
The MMA Guru picks Ramazan Temirov, praising his finishing potential, explosiveness, and activity. He dismisses C.J. Vergara as 'dog [__]' and notes Vergara's losses and lack of talent. He expects Temirov to win by decision, as Vergara may put up a fight and take a round, but Temirov's youth and experience edge prevail.
This fight was not discussed in the transcript. No picks were made.
Zane thinks Temirov can win if he pushes for the finish, as he is an athletic freak with fast, accurate strikes. However, he notes Temirov has a poor understanding of pace and often wastes time circling. Zane acknowledges Vergara is a tough, persistent pressure fighter who could shut Temirov out if he's lackadaisical.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asu Almabayev | 0 | 29 of 53 | 54% | 66 of 92 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:14 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 44 of 77 | 57% | 85 of 132 | 9 of 14 | 64% | 0 | 0 | 9:32 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asu Almabayev | 0 | 7 of 14 | 50% | 13 of 20 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:14 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 16 of 25 | 64% | 23 of 34 | 4 of 6 | 66% | 0 | 0 | 3:14 | |
| 2 | Asu Almabayev | 0 | 8 of 12 | 66% | 25 of 30 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 12 of 21 | 57% | 36 of 55 | 2 of 2 | 100% | 0 | 0 | 3:35 | |
| 3 | Asu Almabayev | 0 | 14 of 27 | 51% | 28 of 42 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 16 of 31 | 51% | 26 of 43 | 3 of 6 | 50% | 0 | 0 | 2:43 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asu Almabayev | 29 of 53 | 54% | 13 of 32 | 14 of 17 | 2 of 4 | 22 of 46 | 4 of 4 | 3 of 3 |
| C.J. Vergara | 44 of 77 | 57% | 22 of 53 | 9 of 11 | 13 of 13 | 23 of 51 | 8 of 10 | 13 of 16 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Asu Almabayev | 7 of 14 | 50% | 3 of 9 | 3 of 3 | 1 of 2 | 4 of 11 | 3 of 3 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 16 of 25 | 64% | 7 of 15 | 3 of 4 | 6 of 6 | 10 of 19 | 2 of 2 | 4 of 4 | |
| 2 | Asu Almabayev | 8 of 12 | 66% | 5 of 8 | 2 of 3 | 1 of 1 | 5 of 9 | 0 of 0 | 3 of 3 |
| C.J. Vergara | 12 of 21 | 57% | 10 of 19 | 1 of 1 | 1 of 1 | 4 of 9 | 1 of 2 | 7 of 10 | |
| 3 | Asu Almabayev | 14 of 27 | 51% | 5 of 15 | 9 of 11 | 0 of 1 | 13 of 26 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 16 of 31 | 51% | 5 of 19 | 5 of 6 | 6 of 6 | 9 of 23 | 5 of 6 | 2 of 2 |
Angelo is confident in Asu Almabayev, citing his wild striking, strong grappling, and cardio. He notes that if Tatu Riera could take down Vergara three times, Almabayev can too. He sees Almabayev as safe to parlay, contrasting him with point fighters he's wary of.
Big Brady picks Asu Almabayev to win by third-round submission. He notes that Almabayev has good grappling and control, and that Vergara has been taken down and submitted in the past. He expects Almabayev to get the fight to the mat and eventually find a submission over 15 minutes.
Cody thinks Almabayev's wrestling will be too much for Vergara, who has poor takedown defense. He expects Almabayev to chain wrestle and control the fight on the ground, possibly securing a submission.
Daniel picks Almabayev, believing he will dictate the pace and win by decision or submission. He notes Vergara is durable and well-rounded but not special anywhere. Daniel was initially low on Almabayev but was impressed by his performance against Ode' Osbourne.
Almabayev is a hot prospect who is very solid all around, but his best work is when he gets fights to the mat. He has impressive chain wrestling, using body locks and trips to drag opponents down. Vergara is a decent striker but lacks the power to keep Almabayev at bay, and his ground game is a weakness. I expect Almabayev to drag this fight to the ground, dominate from top position, and secure another submission victory.
Paul agrees, noting that Vergara has been taken down repeatedly and submitted in the past. He thinks Almabayev's wrestling and submission skills will lead to a finish.
The MMA Guru is confident in Asu Almabayev due to his grappling advantage and C.J. Vergara's unimpressive UFC run. He notes Vergara has struggled against lower-level opponents and was dominated by Tatsuya Taira and Ode' Osbourne. He highlights Almabayev's dominant grappling win over Osbourne and predicts a first-round submission.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 109 of 181 | 60% | 109 of 181 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 0 | 88 of 195 | 45% | 89 of 196 | 0 of 2 | 0% | 0 | 0 | 0:01 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 20 of 33 | 60% | 20 of 33 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 0 | 20 of 40 | 50% | 20 of 40 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 45 of 71 | 63% | 45 of 71 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 0 | 30 of 64 | 46% | 31 of 65 | 0 of 2 | 0% | 0 | 0 | 0:01 | |
| 3 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 44 of 77 | 57% | 44 of 77 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 0 | 38 of 91 | 41% | 38 of 91 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 109 of 181 | 60% | 43 of 102 | 45 of 57 | 21 of 22 | 104 of 176 | 5 of 5 | 0 of 0 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 88 of 195 | 45% | 54 of 154 | 19 of 25 | 15 of 16 | 87 of 194 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 0 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 20 of 33 | 60% | 4 of 14 | 10 of 13 | 6 of 6 | 20 of 33 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 20 of 40 | 50% | 8 of 26 | 3 of 4 | 9 of 10 | 20 of 40 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 45 of 71 | 63% | 14 of 34 | 21 of 26 | 10 of 11 | 41 of 67 | 4 of 4 | 0 of 0 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 30 of 64 | 46% | 19 of 50 | 6 of 9 | 5 of 5 | 29 of 63 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 0 | |
| 3 | C.J. Vergara | 44 of 77 | 57% | 25 of 54 | 14 of 18 | 5 of 5 | 43 of 76 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 0 |
| Vinicius Salvador | 38 of 91 | 41% | 27 of 78 | 10 of 12 | 1 of 1 | 38 of 91 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
Angelo is very confident in C.J. Vergara, calling him as close to a lock as you can get. He highlights Vergara's incredible chin, pressure, power, and solid takedown defense. He plans to bet on him but is monitoring the line movement for the best value.
Big Brady picks C.J. Vergara to win by late third-round knockout. He questions Salvador's legitimacy after a terrible debut, citing poor striking, takedown defense, and fight IQ. He believes Vergara has durability and cardio advantages, especially at elevation, and expects Vergara to weather an early storm and finish a fading Salvador late.
Cody likes Vergara's significant strikes over 57.5 on PrizePicks, expecting a striking match that goes into the third round. He notes Vergara's volume in previous fights (71 against Rodriguez) and believes he can reach that number. He doesn't have a strong side on the moneyline but leans Vergara for the prop.
James sides with Salvador as a dog, believing he has cleaner hands and more power than Vergara. He notes Vergara is durable but gets hit often and has been hurt in multiple fights. He thinks Salvador can have big moments and possibly knock Vergara down, and that the line should be closer to a pick'em.
Salvador is a crafty striker who will have an easier time hitting Vergara than he did against Altamirano. Vergara's grappling isn't good enough to ground Salvador effectively. Salvador's output and damage will earn him a decision. I'm taking Salvador by decision.
Paul picks Salvador at plus money, citing his power and size advantage. He notes Vergara's lack of takedown threat and tendency to stay in the pocket, which plays into Salvador's hands. He worries about Salvador's cardio at altitude but believes his power can get the job done early. He calls it a 'dog or pass' but leans Salvador.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 83 of 144 | 57% | 98 of 164 | 0 of 0 | --- | 1 | 0 | 2:54 |
| Daniel Lacerda | 2 | 48 of 117 | 41% | 51 of 120 | 1 of 2 | 50% | 2 | 0 | 0:40 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 20 of 38 | 52% | 24 of 42 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:03 |
| Daniel Lacerda | 2 | 44 of 103 | 42% | 46 of 105 | 1 of 1 | 100% | 1 | 0 | 0:40 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 63 of 106 | 59% | 74 of 122 | 0 of 0 | --- | 1 | 0 | 2:51 |
| Daniel Lacerda | 0 | 4 of 14 | 28% | 5 of 15 | 0 of 1 | 0% | 1 | 0 | 0:00 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 83 of 144 | 57% | 57 of 103 | 16 of 29 | 10 of 12 | 34 of 65 | 0 of 2 | 49 of 77 |
| Daniel Lacerda | 48 of 117 | 41% | 32 of 94 | 11 of 17 | 5 of 6 | 42 of 106 | 4 of 7 | 2 of 4 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 20 of 38 | 52% | 8 of 21 | 4 of 8 | 8 of 9 | 20 of 36 | 0 of 2 | 0 of 0 |
| Daniel Lacerda | 44 of 103 | 42% | 30 of 84 | 9 of 13 | 5 of 6 | 38 of 92 | 4 of 7 | 2 of 4 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 63 of 106 | 59% | 49 of 82 | 12 of 21 | 2 of 3 | 14 of 29 | 0 of 0 | 49 of 77 |
| Daniel Lacerda | 4 of 14 | 28% | 2 of 10 | 2 of 4 | 0 of 0 | 4 of 14 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
Angelo is very confident in Vergara, calling him one of his most confident picks. He notes that Vergara is a high-pressure fighter who stays busy and is tough. He thinks da Silva is dangerous early but fades, and Vergara's pressure will be too much. He recommends betting 'fight doesn't go to decision' rather than a moneyline.
Big Brady picks C.J. Vergara by first-round knockout, calling Daniel da Silva not UFC caliber. He notes da Silva's poor cardio (2.5 minutes of gas), lack of durability, and tendency to fold under adversity. Brady believes Vergara's pressure and toughness will overwhelm da Silva, who has been finished in all three UFC losses. He expects a quick finish as soon as da Silva faces any adversity.
Cody picks Vergara, calling the line bad and favoring Vergara's heart and cardio. He notes da Silva is explosive but fades after the first round, while Vergara is tenacious and breaks opponents down. He suggests Vergara inside the distance and likes the over 1.5 rounds on PrizePicks (over 5 minutes).
Connor agrees with Zane, picking Vergara without hesitation. He describes Lacerda as a 'flyweight Eric Silva' who is dangerous in the first minute but then falls apart. Vergara is a proven tough guy who hangs around and doesn't get blown out, making him a reliable pick against a fighter with no regulation or longevity in his style.
Jacob picks Vergara, agreeing that he should win with toughness. He notes that da Silva is dangerous early but fades, and Vergara's toughness should carry him. However, he feels da Silva is 'due' for a win and might pull off an upset, but still picks Vergara.
The host picks Daniel da Silva as a big underdog, believing his speed, explosiveness, and power advantage will be too much for Vergara. He notes da Silva is fighting for his job and expects a calculated but reckless style. He predicts a first-round finish, possibly by submission, and likes the prop 'fight doesn't go to decision' and under 1.5 rounds.
The Guru picks Vergara, heavily criticizing da Silva's fight IQ and defensive mistakes. He believes Vergara is more reliable and can tough out danger. He predicts a second or third round TKO.
Zane picks C.J. Vergara because he sees Daniel Lacerda as a self-destructive fighter who explodes and fades quickly, while Vergara is tough, reliable, and consistently puts forward pressure. Vergara may be slow and not athletic, but he is durable and will be in Lacerda's face the whole time. Zane notes that Lacerda has imploded in every UFC fight so far, and Vergara is exactly the kind of grinder who can survive the initial storm and take over.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tatsuro Taira | 0 | 22 of 36 | 61% | 31 of 46 | 3 of 8 | 37% | 2 | 0 | 6:19 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 19 of 30 | 63% | 29 of 40 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 1 | 0:36 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tatsuro Taira | 0 | 13 of 22 | 59% | 21 of 31 | 2 of 4 | 50% | 0 | 0 | 3:30 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 8 of 13 | 61% | 8 of 13 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 1 | 0:31 | |
| 2 | Tatsuro Taira | 0 | 9 of 14 | 64% | 10 of 15 | 1 of 4 | 25% | 2 | 0 | 2:49 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 11 of 17 | 64% | 21 of 27 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:05 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tatsuro Taira | 22 of 36 | 61% | 14 of 28 | 5 of 5 | 3 of 3 | 15 of 26 | 3 of 4 | 4 of 6 |
| C.J. Vergara | 19 of 30 | 63% | 13 of 23 | 5 of 6 | 1 of 1 | 12 of 23 | 3 of 3 | 4 of 4 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Tatsuro Taira | 13 of 22 | 59% | 10 of 19 | 3 of 3 | 0 of 0 | 7 of 13 | 2 of 3 | 4 of 6 |
| C.J. Vergara | 8 of 13 | 61% | 4 of 8 | 4 of 5 | 0 of 0 | 4 of 9 | 0 of 0 | 4 of 4 | |
| 2 | Tatsuro Taira | 9 of 14 | 64% | 4 of 9 | 2 of 2 | 3 of 3 | 8 of 13 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 11 of 17 | 64% | 9 of 15 | 1 of 1 | 1 of 1 | 8 of 14 | 3 of 3 | 0 of 0 |
Play-by-Play
View on SherdogBETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Taira (-240), Vergara (+200)
Round 1
For the second time in three UFC appearances, Vergara (10-3-1, 1-1 UFC) has come in well over the flyweight limit. Ahead of his pairing with the undefeated Taira (11-0, 1-0 UFC), Vergara clocked in at 129 ready pounds. While collecting 30% of Vergara’s paycheck, Japan’s Taira will try to keep his spotless record intact against a heavier foe. The Octagon ranger for this now-129-pound catchweight contest will be referee Kerry Hatley, and the two fighters slowly move towards one another with no intention of a glove touch. Vergara looks to close the distance early, sticking out a few jabs, and Taira stays light on his feet to respond with a quick high kick. Vergara lumbers towards the longer man, and he walks right into a left hook. As Vergara keeps plodding forward, Taira grabs hold of him, lifts him in the air and slams him down while letting out a yelp. The Japanese fighter lands in side control, and he grips tightly to squeeze his shoulder down on Vergara’s head. Vergara bucks a few times, but he only ends up getting elbowed for his work. Taira attempts to move to mount, and as he does, Vergara times a kick-off to stop the guard pass. Taira keeps moving, and he works his way to north-south position while Vergara traps his foe’s head between his legs with an inverted scissor choke of sorts. Taira shrugs it off and shifts to side control, and he glides into mount. The American times this perfectly to spin Taira around, and he finds himself on top. Taira does not accept this, kicking Vergara off of him and returning them to the feet. They trade kicks, and Taira shoots for a takedown as Vergara is backed up to the wall. Taira jumps immediately to full mount, but this is a short-lived positional maneuver as Vergara pulls him back and threatens with a guillotine choke. This is not the best plan for him, as Taira uses that against him and crushes down with a Von Preux choke. Vergara grimaces and manages to release his grip, and Taira slides to the side and prepares to move to mount again. Vergara skillfully turns Taira over, and he uses a modified arm-triangle choke to keep Taira honest. The unbeaten fighter grits out of the choke and stands up, where he promptly tees off on his man with punches and a knee. The round ends.
Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Taira
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Taira
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Taira
Round 2
Vergara darts out of his corner, but he cannot find his target to start off the round. Taira drifts out of harm’s way and plans a leg kick so heavily that Vergara falls over to the mat. Taira allows him to stand so that he can lay into him with another nasty calf kick. Taira lets his hands go with a one-two, and he surprises Vergara with his left shin. Vergara attempts to respond with a looping left hand, and Taira changes levels and nearly walks into a knee. The American keeps his balance and backs off to score a few punches, and Taira responds with a knee strike and a takedown effort. Vergara backs off to the cage in an effort to keep himself upright, but Taira brilliantly snakes around the side to trip out Vergara from behind, where he lands on his back while claiming back control. Vergara fights off a body triangle from one side, and as soon as he moves to break it, Taira shifts his lefts to the other side. While Vergara attempts to escape, Taira latches on to a rear-naked choke, but it is on the chin. Taira nevertheless squeezes with all his might, hoping for a face crank if he cannot sneak the forearm beneath the chin. The Japanese fighter releases the submission so as to not burn his arms out from attempting an unsecured choke, and he switches to his other side with another rear-naked choke. Vergara keeps his chin down, surviving another choke, and he prepares to escape.
As his opponent takes a breath, Taira transitions right into an armbar, and Vergara stands up. The arm of the heavier fighter is still very much trapped in the armbar, and he considers lifting Taira up to slam him out but he does not have the horsepower to do so. The elbow hyperextends as Taira straightens the arm out and then some, and Vergara promptly taps out to escape permanent damage
. That’s one more win for the still-unbeaten Taira, who now celebrates exactly half of his pro wins by submission.
The Official Result
Tatsuro Taira def. C.J. Vergara R2 4:19 via Submission (Armbar)
Angelo picks C.J. Vergara as an underdog, noting that he has takedown defense, pressure, and is a dangerous striker. He is surprised by the 3-to-1 odds favoring Taira, as Vergara only has one close loss in the UFC. Angelo likes Vergara's chances and placed a half-unit bet at +205 (now +200). He acknowledges some nervousness about backing an underdog at these odds but is confident in his pick.
Big Brady leans toward Tatsuro Taira to win by submission in the second round. He praises Taira's elite grappling and back-takes, but has concerns about his low striking volume and wrestling. He notes that Vergara throws high volume and could win if the fight stays on the feet. Brady says he's not touching the -240 price but picks Taira to get a takedown and finish with his ground game.
Cody picks Taira by submission, noting his slick grappling and ability to take the back. He points out Vergara exposes his back when getting up and makes mistakes. He likes the submission prop at +350 and thinks Taira will find a finish.
Taira has a similar striking style to Odie Osborne, using length and kicks, but mixes in solid jiu-jitsu and back takes. Vergara is tough and has pressure, but Taira should control the distance and find takedowns. The host is not fully sold on Taira's potential at -230 but expects him to win by decision. He likes Taira but not enough to bet the moneyline.
Paul picks Taira, expecting him to take Vergara's back and control him. He compares Taira's grappling to Ryan Hall or Aljamain Sterling, noting his ability to body triangle and neutralize opponents. He thinks Taira will dominate but is unsure if he will submit or just control.
The MMA Guru picks Tatsuro Taira, believing he has overcome debut jitters and will make significant improvements as a 22-year-old. He notes that CJ Vergara is underrated but gives up positional control and leaves openings in scrambles. He predicts Taira will find the back and choke out Vergara in the second round via rear-naked choke.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 81 of 143 | 56% | 93 of 156 | 2 of 7 | 28% | 1 | 2 | 3:14 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 71 of 127 | 55% | 155 of 221 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 4:20 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 48 of 88 | 54% | 52 of 92 | 1 of 2 | 50% | 0 | 0 | 0:54 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 27 of 51 | 52% | 54 of 80 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 13 of 17 | 76% | 20 of 24 | 0 of 2 | 0% | 0 | 1 | 0:09 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 26 of 39 | 66% | 65 of 84 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 3:58 | |
| 3 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 20 of 38 | 52% | 21 of 40 | 1 of 3 | 33% | 1 | 1 | 2:11 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 18 of 37 | 48% | 36 of 57 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:22 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 81 of 143 | 56% | 39 of 91 | 32 of 40 | 10 of 12 | 70 of 131 | 6 of 7 | 5 of 5 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 71 of 127 | 55% | 42 of 89 | 18 of 25 | 11 of 13 | 45 of 92 | 7 of 10 | 19 of 25 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 48 of 88 | 54% | 20 of 52 | 18 of 24 | 10 of 12 | 44 of 84 | 4 of 4 | 0 of 0 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 27 of 51 | 52% | 12 of 31 | 8 of 11 | 7 of 9 | 25 of 48 | 2 of 3 | 0 of 0 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 13 of 17 | 76% | 8 of 11 | 5 of 6 | 0 of 0 | 9 of 13 | 1 of 1 | 3 of 3 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 26 of 39 | 66% | 21 of 32 | 3 of 5 | 2 of 2 | 7 of 14 | 1 of 1 | 18 of 24 | |
| 3 | C.J. Vergara | 20 of 38 | 52% | 11 of 28 | 9 of 10 | 0 of 0 | 17 of 34 | 1 of 2 | 2 of 2 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 18 of 37 | 48% | 9 of 26 | 7 of 9 | 2 of 2 | 13 of 30 | 4 of 6 | 1 of 1 |
Angelo picks C.J. Vergara despite the bookies favoring Kleydson Rodrigues. He believes Vergara can get inside Rodrigues' looping punches and beat him to the punch. He notes that Vergara is a beast in the clinch but worries about Rodrigues' takedowns from the clinch. He references Vergara's striking output in his UFC debut.
Big Brady picks Kleydson Rodrigues to win by decision. He is impressed by Rodrigues' striking volume, mixing kicks to the legs, body, and head. Vergara is tough and had a close fight with Ode Osbourne, but Rodrigues is a much tougher matchup on the feet. Rodrigues has good get-up game if taken down. Brady thinks Rodrigues has more tools and will outwork Vergara over three rounds, though the -280 price is steep. He expects a decision win for Rodrigues.
Cody picks Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a promising prospect with excellent technique. He notes Rodrigues' knees, elbows, and cardio, and that he improves as the fight goes on. Cody contrasts Vergara's straight-line movement and poor footwork. He believes Rodrigues will outwork Vergara and likely win a decision.
Daniel Levi picks Kleydson Rodrigues confidently, though he does not bet due to the high price. He likes Rodrigues' athleticism, kicks, and takedown defense, and thinks he has a much higher ceiling than Vergara. He acknowledges Vergara's toughness and cardio but expects Rodrigues to win. He does not bet at -350.
The host is very high on Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a future top 5-7 flyweight. He praises his striking and jiu-jitsu, though notes cardio is questionable. He dismisses C.J. Vergara as a solid striker but not UFC caliber, pointing to Vergara's close decisions and draws on the regional scene. He expects Rodrigues to win via decision, as Vergara is durable. He might include Rodrigues in a parlay.
Paul picks Kleydson Rodrigues, impressed by his defensive capabilities and well-rounded game. He notes that Rodrigues barely got hit on the Contender Series and has good striking defense. Paul believes Vergara is limited, throwing looping left hooks, and that Rodrigues will cover the price tag. He acknowledges the debut nerves but is confident.
The MMA Guru picks Kleydson Rodrigues, praising his unorthodox style and power. He believes Rodrigues' movement and kicks will keep Vergara guessing, and that Vergara may become overwhelmed. He predicts Rodrigues will win the first two rounds, possibly scoring a knockdown, and win 29-28. He notes Rodrigues is a big, powerful flyweight at 26 years old.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ode' Osbourne | 0 | 93 of 165 | 56% | 122 of 197 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 2:41 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 79 of 194 | 40% | 89 of 208 | 1 of 7 | 14% | 0 | 0 | 0:26 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ode' Osbourne | 0 | 24 of 52 | 46% | 24 of 52 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:01 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 34 of 75 | 45% | 34 of 75 | 0 of 1 | 0% | 0 | 0 | 0:08 | |
| 2 | Ode' Osbourne | 0 | 28 of 48 | 58% | 28 of 48 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 26 of 71 | 36% | 31 of 78 | 1 of 3 | 33% | 0 | 0 | 0:17 | |
| 3 | Ode' Osbourne | 0 | 41 of 65 | 63% | 70 of 97 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 2:40 |
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 19 of 48 | 39% | 24 of 55 | 0 of 3 | 0% | 0 | 0 | 0:01 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ode' Osbourne | 93 of 165 | 56% | 35 of 99 | 51 of 59 | 7 of 7 | 68 of 129 | 16 of 22 | 9 of 14 |
| C.J. Vergara | 79 of 194 | 40% | 61 of 168 | 15 of 23 | 3 of 3 | 77 of 191 | 2 of 3 | 0 of 0 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Ode' Osbourne | 24 of 52 | 46% | 10 of 35 | 10 of 13 | 4 of 4 | 22 of 49 | 2 of 3 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 34 of 75 | 45% | 23 of 62 | 9 of 11 | 2 of 2 | 34 of 75 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 | |
| 2 | Ode' Osbourne | 28 of 48 | 58% | 11 of 30 | 14 of 15 | 3 of 3 | 28 of 46 | 0 of 2 | 0 of 0 |
| C.J. Vergara | 26 of 71 | 36% | 21 of 63 | 4 of 7 | 1 of 1 | 25 of 69 | 1 of 2 | 0 of 0 | |
| 3 | Ode' Osbourne | 41 of 65 | 63% | 14 of 34 | 27 of 31 | 0 of 0 | 18 of 34 | 14 of 17 | 9 of 14 |
| C.J. Vergara | 19 of 48 | 39% | 17 of 43 | 2 of 5 | 0 of 0 | 18 of 47 | 1 of 1 | 0 of 0 |
Angelo picks Ode' Osbourne, citing his power edge, versatility, and size advantage at 125 lbs. He believes Vergara's forward pressure and boxing-heavy style will play into Osbourne's counter-striking and range control. However, he notes concern about Osbourne's recent knockout just two months ago, which may affect his chin. He also mentions that Osbourne has switched camps to Syndicate MMA and seems more focused.
Big Brady picks Ode' Osbourne to win by first-round submission. He notes Osbourne's reach advantage and wrestling potential, though Osbourne hasn't used takedowns much in the UFC. He believes if Osbourne implements a wrestling-heavy game plan, he can make it look easy, but if he stands and strikes, it could be risky. Brady sees Vergara as vulnerable on the ground and expects Osbourne to get him down and submit him early.
Cody picks Vergara as a dog, citing Osbourne's history of fading after the first round. He notes Vergara's finishing ability in later rounds and durability. He suggests live betting if Osbourne slows down.
Daniel Levi picks Ode' Osbourne, citing his experience in big fights and reach advantage. He notes that Osbourne has fought on Conor McGregor cards and has been in there with tough competition. Levi acknowledges that C.J. Vergara is a talented dog with a bright future, but believes Osbourne's seasoning and the pressure of a Madison Square Garden debut favor him. He expects a close fight where Osbourne digs deep.
Jacob agrees with Angelo, picking Ode' Osbourne. He highlights Osbourne's power at 125 lbs and his improved camp at Syndicate MMA. He worries about Vergara's takedowns, as Osbourne is a good grappler but not a wrestler, and could end up on his back. However, he believes Osbourne's striking advantage and the positive camp change will lead to a win.
The host leans Osbourne due to his striking from the outside and sneaky choke game. He expects Osbourne to ground Vergara and look for a submission, noting Vergara's recent submission loss. He likes the under 2.5 rounds and Osbourne's submission prop at +285. He has Osbourne parlayed with something else on the card.
Paul does not make a clear pick, calling it a pass. He notes Osbourne's talent but worries about his cardio. He suggests live betting Vergara if Osbourne slows down.
The Guru picks C.J. Vergara as the underdog, citing Osbourne's recent flying knee KO loss just three months prior, which he believes is too quick a turnaround. He notes Vergara's momentum from a KO win on the Contender Series and his aggressive style with powerful knees. The Guru also questions Osbourne's weight cut to flyweight and his durability, predicting Vergara will land big knees in the clinch and possibly finish with body shots.
Kleydson Rodrigues - Fight History
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alateng Heili | 0 | 18 of 59 | 30% | 107 of 183 | 3 of 4 | 75% | 0 | 0 | 8:16 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 37 of 88 | 42% | 70 of 126 | 0 of 1 | 0% | 0 | 0 | 0:30 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alateng Heili | 0 | 3 of 6 | 50% | 49 of 73 | 1 of 2 | 50% | 0 | 0 | 4:10 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 2 of 4 | 50% | 9 of 14 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:20 | |
| 2 | Alateng Heili | 0 | 8 of 25 | 32% | 24 of 48 | 1 of 1 | 100% | 0 | 0 | 2:05 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 19 of 50 | 38% | 30 of 62 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 | |
| 3 | Alateng Heili | 0 | 7 of 28 | 25% | 34 of 62 | 1 of 1 | 100% | 0 | 0 | 2:01 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 16 of 34 | 47% | 31 of 50 | 0 of 1 | 0% | 0 | 0 | 0:10 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alateng Heili | 18 of 59 | 30% | 14 of 50 | 3 of 8 | 1 of 1 | 15 of 53 | 0 of 0 | 3 of 6 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 37 of 88 | 42% | 15 of 55 | 10 of 15 | 12 of 18 | 37 of 88 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Alateng Heili | 3 of 6 | 50% | 3 of 6 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 | 1 of 2 | 0 of 0 | 2 of 4 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 2 of 4 | 50% | 0 of 1 | 1 of 1 | 1 of 2 | 2 of 4 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 | |
| 2 | Alateng Heili | 8 of 25 | 32% | 6 of 19 | 1 of 5 | 1 of 1 | 7 of 23 | 0 of 0 | 1 of 2 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 19 of 50 | 38% | 9 of 31 | 3 of 7 | 7 of 12 | 19 of 50 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 | |
| 3 | Alateng Heili | 7 of 28 | 25% | 5 of 25 | 2 of 3 | 0 of 0 | 7 of 28 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 16 of 34 | 47% | 6 of 23 | 6 of 7 | 4 of 4 | 16 of 34 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
Angelo notes that Alateng Heili struggles with forward pressure and brawlers, and can only do one thing at a time—strike or grapple. Kleydson Rodrigues brings constant forward pressure, versatile striking with kicks, and solid takedown offense from the clinch. However, Rodrigues can be overexposed and taken down. Angelo leans Rodrigues but worries if Heili decides to grapple, which could cause problems.
Cody sees Rodrigues as a potential fraud: he missed weight twice, has poor cardio, and his power may not translate up at bantamweight. Heili is tough, durable, and has never been finished. Cody believes Heili's wrestling defense and forward pressure will wear Rodrigues down, and he expects Heili to win a decision or possibly get a late finish.
Rodrigues is a former flyweight adjusting to 135 lbs but has superior striking and a BJJ black belt. He should be able to box up Alateng Heili, who over-relied on striking against Chris Gutierrez and lost. Expects Rodrigues to win on the scorecards using his striking advantage.
Paul notes Heili is durable and has never been finished in the UFC, while Rodrigues has struggled with weight cuts and cardio. He believes Heili's toughness and pressure will be a problem for Rodrigues, who may fade if he doesn't get an early finish. Paul sees value in Heili as a slight underdog.
The MMA Guru picks Alateng Heili as an underdog over Kleydson Rodrigues. He believes the odds are incorrect and that Heili is a more consistent and composed fighter with good striking. He criticizes Rodrigues' losses, including a finish by Farid Basharat, and notes that Rodrigues' only UFC win is against Shannon Ross, which he dismisses as unimpressive. He also mentions Heili's takedown ability as a potential factor.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farid Basharat | 0 | 4 of 6 | 66% | 25 of 36 | 2 of 5 | 40% | 1 | 0 | 3:15 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 7 of 8 | 87% | 25 of 26 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:30 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Farid Basharat | 0 | 4 of 6 | 66% | 25 of 36 | 2 of 5 | 40% | 1 | 0 | 3:15 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 7 of 8 | 87% | 25 of 26 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:30 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Farid Basharat | 4 of 6 | 66% | 2 of 3 | 2 of 2 | 0 of 1 | 0 of 1 | 1 of 1 | 3 of 4 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 7 of 8 | 87% | 3 of 4 | 2 of 2 | 2 of 2 | 4 of 5 | 1 of 1 | 2 of 2 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Farid Basharat | 4 of 6 | 66% | 2 of 3 | 2 of 2 | 0 of 1 | 0 of 1 | 1 of 1 | 3 of 4 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 7 of 8 | 87% | 3 of 4 | 2 of 2 | 2 of 2 | 4 of 5 | 1 of 1 | 2 of 2 |
Play-by-Play
View on SherdogBETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Basharat (-325), Rodrigues (+260)
Round 1
The action continues in the bantamweight division, when undefeated London Shootfighters product Basharat (10-0, 1-0 UFC) tries to keep his pro record unblemished against former flyweight Rodrigues (8-2, 1-1 UFC). A rarity for this fight card, neither competitor is fighting for French honor and glory in this matchup. With referee Loic Pora keeping a watchful eye on the action, the two men touch gloves ahead of their scheduled melee. Basharat moves right to the center of the cage and pushes Rodrigues back, and he ignores a low kick and absorbs one to the body in rapid succession. “K.R.” wraps his foot around the head of his opponent, and Basharat responds with a speedy takedown effort. Rodrigues stifles it and attempts to take the back standing, only to jump around and try to set up an unorthodox submission maneuver. Basharat stays composed and dumps Rodrigues to his back, and he does not waste much time before passing to half guard. Rodrigues responds with a few elbows to the thigh, and Basharat pays them no mind as he steps over to full mount with little effort. Basharat stays tightly pressed to his opponent instead of setting up some offense, and he takes some of the wind out of the explosive Brazilian’s sails with this pressure. Basharat gets off some short ground-and-pound, until Rodrigues bursts out of the bad position, reverses the position and is about to put Basharat on his back. Before he can, Basharat jumps back to his feet, and the two end up in the clinch. Rodrigues sneaks in several effective strikes on the inside, but he cannot stop Basharat from tripping up one leg and placing “K.R.” on his back. Basharat again methodically looks to pass the guard, and he frustrates Rodrigues with effective blows from above. Rodrigues fights back, only to take several elbows right on the jaw.
Basharat uses shoulder pressure and smoothly sets up a kata gatame, and he steps over to the side while Rodrigues is attempting to break the grip. Basharat presses his full body weight down as he completely secures the arm-triangle choke, and there is nothing more that Rodrigues can do at this point. After a few seconds of this dire position, Rodrigues surrenders
, and Basharat keeps his unbeaten record intact with a slick performance over a dangerous opponent.
The Official Result
Farid Basharat def. Kleydson Rodrigues R1 4:15 via Submission (Arm-Triangle Choke)
Angelo picks Farid Basharat but with low confidence, noting the betting lines should be closer. He says Farid is the more technically sound fighter but didn't like pressure from Damon Blackshear, and Kleydson is all pressure. If Kleydson brawls, he can win. Angelo is staying away from the -300 line.
Big Brady picks Basharat, emphasizing his size, striking volume, and wrestling advantage. He notes Rodrigues' past weight issues and tough debut at bantamweight. He expects Basharat to use takedowns and control to win a decision, calling it a tough matchup for Rodrigues.
Cody is high on Basharat, calling him a real prospect at 26-0. He likes his movement, striking, and improving wrestling under Jake Shields. Basharat's win over Da'Mon Blackshear is a quality victory. Rodrigues has weight issues (missed weight twice) and is moving up to 135, which will affect his takedown defense. Cody expects Basharat to pick him apart on the feet and mix in takedowns.
Daniel Levi picks Farid Basharat with high confidence, having bet him at -245 earlier. He praises Basharat's footwork, jab, fight IQ, and heart, noting that he passed a tough test against Damon Blackshear. Levi believes Basharat's pace and pressure will be too much for Rodrigues, who is explosive but tends to fade and has been taken down by lesser fighters. He expects a second or third round finish, citing Basharat's ground and pound and submission defense.
I like the chalk on Basharat. He has a slick boxing/kickboxing game and blends in takedowns well. Rodrigues is moving up in weight and has cardio issues. Basharat should establish range, get the fight to the clinch, and take advantage of Rodrigues' gas tank. I also like Basharat round three as a sprinkle. If the fight escapes the first round, Basharat should dominate later rounds.
Paul agrees with Cody, adding that Basharat by decision is basically a pick'em. He notes Rodrigues has never been finished, so a decision is likely. Paul likes Basharat over 2.5 takedowns on prize picks, expecting a takedown per round.
The MMA Guru picks Farid Basharat, citing his win over Damon Blackshear as having aged well, and noting that Kleydson Rodrigues has losses to CJ Vergara and a win over Shannon Ross. He believes Basharat is more well-rounded and will drown Rodrigues in the second and third rounds, though he acknowledges Rodrigues could land a spinning kick early. He predicts a 29-28 decision for Basharat.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 1 of 4 | 25% | 1 of 4 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Shannon Ross | 1 | 14 of 22 | 63% | 16 of 24 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 1 of 4 | 25% | 1 of 4 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
| Shannon Ross | 1 | 14 of 22 | 63% | 16 of 24 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 1 of 4 | 25% | 0 of 1 | 0 of 0 | 1 of 3 | 1 of 4 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| Shannon Ross | 14 of 22 | 63% | 8 of 16 | 3 of 3 | 3 of 3 | 9 of 14 | 5 of 7 | 0 of 1 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Kleydson Rodrigues | 1 of 4 | 25% | 0 of 1 | 0 of 0 | 1 of 3 | 1 of 4 | 0 of 0 | 0 of 0 |
| Shannon Ross | 14 of 22 | 63% | 8 of 16 | 3 of 3 | 3 of 3 | 9 of 14 | 5 of 7 | 0 of 1 |
Angelo picks Kleydson Rodrigues but with low confidence, noting that Shannon Ross is a tough, hittable fighter who will apply constant pressure. He worries that Rodrigues might fold under pressure and lose a close decision, as in his previous fight. He expects Ross to headhunt for the home crowd, which could play into Rodrigues' hands.
Big Brady acknowledges Ross's potential but thinks Ross is hittable and not durable. He likes Rodrigues' power and striking, predicting a second-round knockout. He notes that Ross had health issues in his last fight but still expects Rodrigues to get back on track with a finish.
Cody picks Rodrigues but is wary after Rodrigues lost as a -360 favorite against CJ Vergara. He notes Rodrigues has takedown defense issues and fights to the level of his opponent. He thinks Ross has durability problems after being dropped three times by Vinicius Salvador. He considers the under on rounds or fight doesn't go to decision.
Connor picks Rodrigues, believing in his potential and power. He notes that Ross is hittable and has durability issues, and that Rodrigues has the power to hurt him. Connor acknowledges that Rodrigues looked timid against Vergara but still threw heat all fight. He thinks Rodrigues can win via athletic cheating, possibly landing a wild kick after losing the first round.
Ross can replicate Vergara's game plan: crash the pocket, pressure, and grapple. Rodrigues has cardio issues when pressured and prefers kicking from distance. Ross's forward pressure and big punches should wear Rodrigues down as the fight goes on. Durability is a question for Ross, but Rodrigues isn't a heavy hitter with his hands. Ross likely wins a decision after a tough first round.
Paul picks Rodrigues but is not confident. He notes Ross's poor durability and the fact that Ross lost to Vinicius Salvador as a favorite. He thinks Rodrigues has better grappling and volume, but the -320 price is too high. He mentions the under 2.5 rounds as a potential play.
The MMA Guru picks Kleydson Rodrigues over Shannon Ross, criticizing Ross's entry into the UFC after a loss on the contender series. He believes Rodrigues is dangerous on the feet and will find a TKO finish, possibly a head kick in the first round. He notes Ross has been submitted early in his career.
Zane picks Ross, citing Rodrigues' inexperience and rough style matchup. He notes that Ross is aggressive and will stay in Rodrigues' face, finding wrestling opportunities, while Rodrigues has not learned to deal with pressure and tends to fire off kicks when pressured. Zane acknowledges that Ross is not impressive but thinks Rodrigues is not ready yet.
Totals
| Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 0 | 81 of 143 | 56% | 93 of 156 | 2 of 7 | 28% | 1 | 2 | 3:14 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 71 of 127 | 55% | 155 of 221 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 4:20 |
Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | KD | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Total Str. | TD | TD % | Sub. Att | Rev. | Ctrl |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 48 of 88 | 54% | 52 of 92 | 1 of 2 | 50% | 0 | 0 | 0:54 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 27 of 51 | 52% | 54 of 80 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:00 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 13 of 17 | 76% | 20 of 24 | 0 of 2 | 0% | 0 | 1 | 0:09 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 26 of 39 | 66% | 65 of 84 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 3:58 | |
| 3 | C.J. Vergara | 0 | 20 of 38 | 52% | 21 of 40 | 1 of 3 | 33% | 1 | 1 | 2:11 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 0 | 18 of 37 | 48% | 36 of 57 | 0 of 0 | --- | 0 | 0 | 0:22 |
Significant Strikes
| Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C.J. Vergara | 81 of 143 | 56% | 39 of 91 | 32 of 40 | 10 of 12 | 70 of 131 | 6 of 7 | 5 of 5 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 71 of 127 | 55% | 42 of 89 | 18 of 25 | 11 of 13 | 45 of 92 | 7 of 10 | 19 of 25 |
Significant Strikes Per Round
| Rd | Fighter | Sig. Str. | Sig. Str. % | Head | Body | Leg | Distance | Clinch | Ground |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | C.J. Vergara | 48 of 88 | 54% | 20 of 52 | 18 of 24 | 10 of 12 | 44 of 84 | 4 of 4 | 0 of 0 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 27 of 51 | 52% | 12 of 31 | 8 of 11 | 7 of 9 | 25 of 48 | 2 of 3 | 0 of 0 | |
| 2 | C.J. Vergara | 13 of 17 | 76% | 8 of 11 | 5 of 6 | 0 of 0 | 9 of 13 | 1 of 1 | 3 of 3 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 26 of 39 | 66% | 21 of 32 | 3 of 5 | 2 of 2 | 7 of 14 | 1 of 1 | 18 of 24 | |
| 3 | C.J. Vergara | 20 of 38 | 52% | 11 of 28 | 9 of 10 | 0 of 0 | 17 of 34 | 1 of 2 | 2 of 2 |
| Kleydson Rodrigues | 18 of 37 | 48% | 9 of 26 | 7 of 9 | 2 of 2 | 13 of 30 | 4 of 6 | 1 of 1 |
Angelo picks C.J. Vergara despite the bookies favoring Kleydson Rodrigues. He believes Vergara can get inside Rodrigues' looping punches and beat him to the punch. He notes that Vergara is a beast in the clinch but worries about Rodrigues' takedowns from the clinch. He references Vergara's striking output in his UFC debut.
Big Brady picks Kleydson Rodrigues to win by decision. He is impressed by Rodrigues' striking volume, mixing kicks to the legs, body, and head. Vergara is tough and had a close fight with Ode Osbourne, but Rodrigues is a much tougher matchup on the feet. Rodrigues has good get-up game if taken down. Brady thinks Rodrigues has more tools and will outwork Vergara over three rounds, though the -280 price is steep. He expects a decision win for Rodrigues.
Cody picks Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a promising prospect with excellent technique. He notes Rodrigues' knees, elbows, and cardio, and that he improves as the fight goes on. Cody contrasts Vergara's straight-line movement and poor footwork. He believes Rodrigues will outwork Vergara and likely win a decision.
Daniel Levi picks Kleydson Rodrigues confidently, though he does not bet due to the high price. He likes Rodrigues' athleticism, kicks, and takedown defense, and thinks he has a much higher ceiling than Vergara. He acknowledges Vergara's toughness and cardio but expects Rodrigues to win. He does not bet at -350.
The host is very high on Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a future top 5-7 flyweight. He praises his striking and jiu-jitsu, though notes cardio is questionable. He dismisses C.J. Vergara as a solid striker but not UFC caliber, pointing to Vergara's close decisions and draws on the regional scene. He expects Rodrigues to win via decision, as Vergara is durable. He might include Rodrigues in a parlay.
Paul picks Kleydson Rodrigues, impressed by his defensive capabilities and well-rounded game. He notes that Rodrigues barely got hit on the Contender Series and has good striking defense. Paul believes Vergara is limited, throwing looping left hooks, and that Rodrigues will cover the price tag. He acknowledges the debut nerves but is confident.
The MMA Guru picks Kleydson Rodrigues, praising his unorthodox style and power. He believes Rodrigues' movement and kicks will keep Vergara guessing, and that Vergara may become overwhelmed. He predicts Rodrigues will win the first two rounds, possibly scoring a knockdown, and win 29-28. He notes Rodrigues is a big, powerful flyweight at 26 years old.
Expert Picks (7)
Angelo picks C.J. Vergara despite the bookies favoring Kleydson Rodrigues. He believes Vergara can get inside Rodrigues' looping punches and beat him to the punch. He notes that Vergara is a beast in the clinch but worries about Rodrigues' takedowns from the clinch. He references Vergara's striking output in his UFC debut.
Big Brady picks Kleydson Rodrigues to win by decision. He is impressed by Rodrigues' striking volume, mixing kicks to the legs, body, and head. Vergara is tough and had a close fight with Ode Osbourne, but Rodrigues is a much tougher matchup on the feet. Rodrigues has good get-up game if taken down. Brady thinks Rodrigues has more tools and will outwork Vergara over three rounds, though the -280 price is steep. He expects a decision win for Rodrigues.
Cody picks Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a promising prospect with excellent technique. He notes Rodrigues' knees, elbows, and cardio, and that he improves as the fight goes on. Cody contrasts Vergara's straight-line movement and poor footwork. He believes Rodrigues will outwork Vergara and likely win a decision.
Daniel Levi picks Kleydson Rodrigues confidently, though he does not bet due to the high price. He likes Rodrigues' athleticism, kicks, and takedown defense, and thinks he has a much higher ceiling than Vergara. He acknowledges Vergara's toughness and cardio but expects Rodrigues to win. He does not bet at -350.
The host is very high on Kleydson Rodrigues, calling him a future top 5-7 flyweight. He praises his striking and jiu-jitsu, though notes cardio is questionable. He dismisses C.J. Vergara as a solid striker but not UFC caliber, pointing to Vergara's close decisions and draws on the regional scene. He expects Rodrigues to win via decision, as Vergara is durable. He might include Rodrigues in a parlay.
Paul picks Kleydson Rodrigues, impressed by his defensive capabilities and well-rounded game. He notes that Rodrigues barely got hit on the Contender Series and has good striking defense. Paul believes Vergara is limited, throwing looping left hooks, and that Rodrigues will cover the price tag. He acknowledges the debut nerves but is confident.
The MMA Guru picks Kleydson Rodrigues, praising his unorthodox style and power. He believes Rodrigues' movement and kicks will keep Vergara guessing, and that Vergara may become overwhelmed. He predicts Rodrigues will win the first two rounds, possibly scoring a knockdown, and win 29-28. He notes Rodrigues is a big, powerful flyweight at 26 years old.
Rocked him then subbed him.