UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Woodley · Sep 19, 2020 · Bantamweight · Completed
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Age 31
Height 5' 9"
Reach 73.0"
Weight 135 lbs.
Stance Switch
Age 37
Height 5' 5"
Reach 67.0"
Weight 135 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Career Averages - Randy Costa
6.53 SLpM
46.0% Str. Acc.
7.58 SApM
58.0% Str. Def.
0.0 TD Avg
0.0% TD Acc.
50.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Journey Newson
2.64 SLpM
32.0% Str. Acc.
2.57 SApM
64.0% Str. Def.
0.56 TD Avg
16.0% TD Acc.
43.0% TD Def.
0.3 Sub. Avg
Randy Costa - Fight History
LOSS vs Guido Cannetti
Submission (rear-naked choke) R1 1:04 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Yan · Oct 01, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Guido Cannetti 0 8 of 13 61% 8 of 13 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:09
Randy Costa 0 2 of 7 28% 2 of 7 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Guido Cannetti 0 8 of 13 61% 8 of 13 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:09
Randy Costa 0 2 of 7 28% 2 of 7 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Guido Cannetti 8 of 13 61% 1 of 5 3 of 3 4 of 5 8 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0
Randy Costa 2 of 7 28% 0 of 3 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Guido Cannetti 8 of 13 61% 1 of 5 3 of 3 4 of 5 8 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0
Randy Costa 2 of 7 28% 0 of 3 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Sep 28, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Randy Costa

Cody picks Randy Costa to win, citing his striking and power. He notes that Costa has looked good in recent fights and that Cannetti is 42 and has durability issues. He expects an early finish and likes the under 2.5 rounds. He also sees value in Guido Cannetti as a live underdog if Costa fades.

Under 2.5 rounds; Guido Cannetti by KO in round 2
"I think Guido's getting stopped here so I got the the under sure to God this place not going 15 full minutes"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Sep 28, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Randy Costa

Paul picks Randy Costa to win, but is not confident in the -300 moneyline. He expects Costa to come out fast and finish early, but acknowledges Costa's cardio issues. He is interested in props on Guido Cannetti if Costa fades. He believes the fight will not go the distance and likes the under 2.5 rounds prop.

Under 2.5 rounds; fight doesn't go to decision -400; Guido Cannetti round 2 KO at 25-1
"I think Costa wins I guess for the purposes of this show I'll pick Costa but I'm kind of interesting we'll see where the props land"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 27, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Guido Cannetti

The MMA Guru picks Guido Cannetti, believing he will knock out Randy Costa in the first round. He notes that both fighters fade after the first round, but Cannetti has power and Costa has a weak chin. He calls Costa 'wolf tickets' and criticizes the -300 price on Costa, saying anyone betting that has a gambling addiction. He expects a first-round KO from Cannetti.

first round KO
"Give me Guido Cannetti... catch him early and put him away KO. Randy has no chin."
LOSS vs Tony Kelley
TKO (elbows) R2 4:15 · UFC 269: Oliveira vs. Poirier · Dec 11, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Tony Kelley 0 31 of 65 47% 32 of 66 0 of 1 0% 0 0 2:29
Randy Costa 0 82 of 169 48% 129 of 218 0 of 0 --- 0 0 3:26
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Tony Kelley 0 16 of 37 43% 17 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:28
Randy Costa 0 35 of 90 38% 50 of 105 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:43
2 Tony Kelley 0 15 of 28 53% 15 of 28 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:01
Randy Costa 0 47 of 79 59% 79 of 113 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:43
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Tony Kelley 31 of 65 47% 20 of 54 11 of 11 0 of 0 19 of 53 12 of 12 0 of 0
Randy Costa 82 of 169 48% 26 of 93 43 of 62 13 of 14 27 of 93 32 of 42 23 of 34
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Tony Kelley 16 of 37 43% 8 of 29 8 of 8 0 of 0 8 of 29 8 of 8 0 of 0
Randy Costa 35 of 90 38% 6 of 48 23 of 35 6 of 7 17 of 64 18 of 26 0 of 0
2 Tony Kelley 15 of 28 53% 12 of 25 3 of 3 0 of 0 11 of 24 4 of 4 0 of 0
Randy Costa 47 of 79 59% 20 of 45 20 of 27 7 of 7 10 of 29 14 of 16 23 of 34
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Dec 8, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Randy Costa

Big Brady picks Randy Costa but with low confidence due to Costa's questionable cardio. He notes that Costa is explosive and powerful in the first round but tends to fade if the fight goes past round one, as seen in previous fights. He believes Costa will likely finish Kelley early by knockout, but if Kelley survives the initial storm, Kelley's cardio advantage could lead to a win. Brady mentions he would not bet Costa on the moneyline but would consider a round 1 or inside the distance prop.

Randy Costa round 1 or inside the distance
"give me randy costa for the win i think he does knock out tony kelly in the first round but if he does not i think the fight gets very very interesting"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Dec 9, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Tony Kelley

Daniel Levi picks Tony Kelley to win by late stoppage or decision. He argues that Randy Costa is a first-round finisher but fades if he can't get the knockout, citing losses to Brandon Davis and Adrian Yanez. Levi emphasizes Kelley's durability, never being finished, and his experience going five rounds. He believes if Kelley survives the first seven minutes, Costa will fall apart mentally and physically. Levi notes Costa's questionable mentality, referencing an interview where Costa cried before an amateur fight.

"just stay alive for seven minutes tony and then you're a very live underdog to come out here and win this fight"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Randy Costa

Costa is the much better striker, quicker and more explosive, but his gas tank is a major concern. If he doesn't finish early, Kelley will take over in the later rounds. The fight likely ends inside the distance, either by Costa's early KO or Kelley's late submission. The play is 'fight doesn't go to decision' to cover both outcomes.

fight doesn't go to decision
"the play here is the fight doesn't go to decision i'm expecting kosovo to starch him in round one"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 6, 2021 (5 days before fight)
Randy Costa

The MMA Guru confidently picks Randy Costa to win by head kick KO in the first round. He praises Costa's potential and striking, noting his impressive performance against Adrian Yanez. He criticizes Tony Kelley's one-dimensional style and lack of cardio, believing Costa's reach advantage and power will be decisive.

head kick KO in first round
"i think he's going to get a head kick ko in the first round that's what i'm going for don't mess with the zohan"
LOSS vs Adrian Yañez
TKO (punches) R2 2:11 · UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Dillashaw · Jul 24, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Adrian Yañez 1 64 of 184 34% 64 of 184 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Randy Costa 0 69 of 153 45% 69 of 153 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Adrian Yañez 0 33 of 106 31% 33 of 106 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Randy Costa 0 57 of 123 46% 57 of 123 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Adrian Yañez 1 31 of 78 39% 31 of 78 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Randy Costa 0 12 of 30 40% 12 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Adrian Yañez 64 of 184 34% 41 of 146 6 of 19 17 of 19 58 of 172 0 of 0 6 of 12
Randy Costa 69 of 153 45% 61 of 144 5 of 6 3 of 3 69 of 153 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Adrian Yañez 33 of 106 31% 17 of 83 4 of 11 12 of 12 33 of 106 0 of 0 0 of 0
Randy Costa 57 of 123 46% 50 of 115 4 of 5 3 of 3 57 of 123 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Adrian Yañez 31 of 78 39% 24 of 63 2 of 8 5 of 7 25 of 66 0 of 0 6 of 12
Randy Costa 12 of 30 40% 11 of 29 1 of 1 0 of 0 12 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Angelo picks Adrian Yañez because he is a technical striker with fast hands, power, and an incredible chin. He expects Yañez to win by knockout in the late first or early second round. He has already bet the over 1.5 rounds and the more/more on monkey knife fight, believing the fight will be active and go past the first round despite Costa's history of early finishes. He thinks the odds are a bit wide and the fight is more competitive than implied.

over 1.5 rounds bet; more/more on monkey knife fight
"i have the over on rounds anytime i see rounds set at one and a half i really look at it"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jul 20, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Big Brady picks Adrian Yañez to win by second-round knockout. He notes Yañez's power, volume, cardio, and durability (never knocked out), while Costa is a first-round finisher who fades if the fight extends. He highlights Costa's entire career has lasted about 12 minutes and he was finished in his only fight past the first round. He acknowledges Costa is live for an early finish but believes Yañez has more paths to victory.

Yañez by second round knockout
"i'll take giannis here i'll take him to win by second round knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Cody picks Yanez, calling him a different level striker. He notes Yanez has never been finished by strikes and has a good chin. He thinks Costa is explosive but only dangerous in round one, and that Yanez's counter striking and boxing are clinical. He loaded up on Yanez at -170.

"the pick is yan as i just think he's just on a whole different level from a striking department"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jul 23, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Daniel Levi picks Adrian Yañez, emphasizing his smooth counter-striking, footwork, and head movement. He notes that Costa's wild style plays into Yañez's game, and that Yañez has a rock-solid chin and underrated ground game. Levi predicts a mid-second round TKO, as Costa lacks the experience to win a long battle and must finish early. He dismisses Costa's high-kick threat, stating Yañez has never been rocked.

predicts mid-second round TKO
"i'm gonna go with yanez here as well um i'm thinking probably mid second round tko"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Jacob picks Adrian Yañez because he is more technical and precise, while Randy Costa throws looping shots. He notes that Costa needs to use his length but doesn't throw straight punches. He also jokes that Costa's Twitter bio says 'professional bad decision maker,' which swayed him. He has Yañez in his DraftKings lineup and expects him to get the job done.

"i have uh janae's in my lineup and i think he's gonna win but that's just because i think he's just a little bit more technical a little bit more precise"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jul 23, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Adrian Yañez

The host picks Adrian Yañez, praising his striking defense and counter-striking ability. He expects Yañez to weather Costa's early wild attacks and then find a knockout in the second round. He notes Costa's cardio issues and wild style play into Yañez's hands. He likes Yañez by KO at -110 and Yañez in round two at +425.

Yañez by KO -110; Yañez in round two +425
"adriana's by ko minus 110 makes the most sense here"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

Paul agrees, calling Yanez a top ticket play. He praises Yanez's slick counter punching, high guard, and ability to bait opponents. He notes Costa's only path is a bomb rush in the first round, and that Costa's social media focus on the peanut butter cup vs Dr Pepper meme might distract him. He thinks Yanez is a green version of Masvidal.

"janice is one of our guys i i imagine to me he feels like a top ticket play"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 18, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Adrian Yañez

The Guru picks Yañez for his superior technique and chin, contrasting with Costa's wildness and chin issues. He notes Costa's tendency to get clipped and his weight cut problems. He predicts a first-round KO via straight right hand as Costa loads up a switch kick. He also suggests betting on the fight ending in the first round.

first round KO; bet on fight ending in first round
"i'll say round one ko adrian yanez"
KO (head kick) R1 0:41 · UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Woodley · Sep 19, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Randy Costa 0 1 of 5 20% 1 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Journey Newson 1 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Randy Costa 0 1 of 5 20% 1 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Journey Newson 1 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Randy Costa 1 of 5 20% 1 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Randy Costa 1 of 5 20% 1 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 17, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Randy Costa

Big Brady picks Randy Costa to get a first-round knockout, citing Costa's exciting style and willingness to throw with no regard. He notes Newson's path to victory is surviving the early storm or taking Costa down, but Costa has improved takedown defense. He eyes the under 1.5 rounds prop as plus money.

Under 1.5 rounds
"give me cost to get the first round knockout"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 18, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Journey Newson

The host believes Journey Newson is the more complete fighter with a brown belt in jiu-jitsu, while Randy Costa is a one-dimensional power puncher who fades after the first round. He expects Newson to weather Costa's early onslaught, take him down, and secure a submission. He notes Costa's lack of grappling experience and poor takedown defense, as seen in his loss to Brandon Davis.

Journey Newson wins by submission in round 1; Randy Costa wins in round 1 prop (if betting Costa)
"I think we'll see journey newson go out there and just get costed down within that first round or sorry first minute and really start to work his brown belt."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Randy Costa

The host picks Randy Costa over Journey Newson, citing Costa's youth, improvement, and ability to win wild exchanges. He notes Costa's knee injury in his loss to Brandon Davis and his recent first-round win. He predicts a first-round KO.

first round KO
"I'm going to be going with Randa Koster getting it done in a wild exchange in the first round... randy koster ends it with a big shot finishing journey newson in the first round."
WIN vs Boston Salmon
TKO (punches) R1 2:15 · UFC on ESPN: Reyes vs. Weidman · Oct 18, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Randy Costa 2 22 of 44 50% 23 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Boston Salmon 0 12 of 22 54% 16 of 26 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:43
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Randy Costa 2 22 of 44 50% 23 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:08
Boston Salmon 0 12 of 22 54% 16 of 26 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:43
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Randy Costa 22 of 44 50% 21 of 41 1 of 3 0 of 0 19 of 36 0 of 1 3 of 7
Boston Salmon 12 of 22 54% 4 of 13 7 of 8 1 of 1 11 of 21 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Randy Costa 22 of 44 50% 21 of 41 1 of 3 0 of 0 19 of 36 0 of 1 3 of 7
Boston Salmon 12 of 22 54% 4 of 13 7 of 8 1 of 1 11 of 21 1 of 1 0 of 0
LOSS vs Brandon Davis
Submission (rear-naked choke) R2 1:12 · UFC 236: Holloway vs. Poirier 2 · Apr 13, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Brandon Davis 0 35 of 88 39% 40 of 93 0 of 0 --- 1 0 1:16
Randy Costa 0 46 of 101 45% 49 of 104 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:37
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Brandon Davis 0 29 of 69 42% 33 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:08
Randy Costa 0 34 of 79 43% 36 of 81 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:11
2 Brandon Davis 0 6 of 19 31% 7 of 20 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:08
Randy Costa 0 12 of 22 54% 13 of 23 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:26
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Brandon Davis 35 of 88 39% 20 of 67 6 of 11 9 of 10 30 of 82 5 of 6 0 of 0
Randy Costa 46 of 101 45% 37 of 89 8 of 11 1 of 1 44 of 98 2 of 3 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Brandon Davis 29 of 69 42% 17 of 51 3 of 8 9 of 10 25 of 64 4 of 5 0 of 0
Randy Costa 34 of 79 43% 27 of 70 6 of 8 1 of 1 32 of 76 2 of 3 0 of 0
2 Brandon Davis 6 of 19 31% 3 of 16 3 of 3 0 of 0 5 of 18 1 of 1 0 of 0
Randy Costa 12 of 22 54% 10 of 19 2 of 3 0 of 0 12 of 22 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson - Fight History
LOSS vs Marcus McGhee
Submission (rear-naked choke) R2 2:03 · UFC on ESPN: Song vs. Simon · Apr 29, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Marcus McGhee 0 13 of 46 28% 13 of 46 0 of 6 0% 0 0 1:03
Journey Newson 1 25 of 53 47% 25 of 54 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:31
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Marcus McGhee 0 9 of 39 23% 9 of 39 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:34
Journey Newson 0 19 of 42 45% 19 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Marcus McGhee 0 4 of 7 57% 4 of 7 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:29
Journey Newson 1 6 of 11 54% 6 of 11 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:31
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Marcus McGhee 13 of 46 28% 6 of 34 4 of 7 3 of 5 12 of 45 1 of 1 0 of 0
Journey Newson 25 of 53 47% 14 of 39 9 of 11 2 of 3 21 of 47 3 of 4 1 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Marcus McGhee 9 of 39 23% 4 of 29 4 of 7 1 of 3 8 of 38 1 of 1 0 of 0
Journey Newson 19 of 42 45% 10 of 30 7 of 9 2 of 3 18 of 40 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Marcus McGhee 4 of 7 57% 2 of 5 0 of 0 2 of 2 4 of 7 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson 6 of 11 54% 4 of 9 2 of 2 0 of 0 3 of 7 2 of 2 1 of 2
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Marcus McGhee vs. Journey Newson

Round 1
McGhee makes his debut on just a few days notice against five-time UFC vet Newson. Mark Smith will oversee the catchweight bout. McGhee takes the center of the cage and has a high kick blocked. McGhee goes upstairs with another kick and again, Newson’s guard is in place. Newson wings an overhand left and misses the mark. McGhee lands an inside low kick. The newcomer jumps in with a knee and Newson holds on to a leg before releasing. Newson sits down an a solid right hand. A body kick lands for Newson. McGhee jumps in with a front kick that lands. Newson catches it and lets it go immediately. Newson throws a high kick that McGhee blocks. A stiff left hand backs up Newson, and another straight punch lands shortly thereafter. McGhee is finding the mark for his left hand now. Newson looks to keep his man at bay with a series of kicks. A right lands for Newson and he circles away. McGhee kicks the body. Newson closes the range and drops for a takedown against the fence. Newson releases a leg and then follows McGee as he rolls. The fighters get back to range, and Newson pushes his foe into the cage, where he misses a spinning back elbow before stepping away. McGhee lands a knee in the clinch and misses a kick. A spinning kick to the body lands for McGhee and then he fires off a left hand. A right lands for Newson as he rushes forward with punches at the horn.

Sherdog Scores
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 McGhee
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Newson
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 McGhee

Round 2
Newson can’t find the range on a head kick and McGhee answers with a body kick. Newson pressures forward and McGhee counters with a right hand. Newson nearly trips his man down but McGhee is up quickly. Newson lands a couple inside leg kicks. They tie up and McGee backs Newson into the fence. Newson reverses the position and he looks for a takedown. He eventually gets McGee down, but only for a couple seconds. A quick straight left at range sits down Newson and McGee jumps on his opponent’s back when he rolls to his knees.
McGhee applies a rear-naked choke and tightens the hold. Newson can only hold on for a few seconds before he taps out.
McGhee has yet to go the distance in his professional career.

The Official Result
Marcus McGhee def. Journey Newson via Submission (Rear-Naked Choke) R2 2:03
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 26, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Cody picks Kelleher by decision, noting that Kelleher has underrated wrestling and can control Newson on the ground. He points out that Newson has poor takedown defense against wrestlers and that Kelleher's recent wins have come via wrestling-heavy game plans. He believes Kelleher will fight smart to secure a decision.

Brian Kelleher by decision
"I would take Brian Kelleher I would also be greedy enough to chase it by Brian Keller by decision"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Apr 27, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Journey Newson

Connor also picks Newson hesitantly, citing the short notice and McGhee's potential to gas if he blitzes. He notes Newson's wrestling could be a factor, but McGhee's athletic takedown defense and scrambling are good. Connor thinks the fight could be ugly and low-volume.

"i'm just going to take nuisance to win on the short notice but it's not you know if you're nuisance i wouldn't be happy about taking this fight frankly"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 26, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Paul picks Kelleher by decision, agreeing with Cody. He notes that Kelleher is on a three-fight losing streak against top competition and this is a must-win. He expects Kelleher to rely on his wrestling and control time to secure a decision. He is surprised the line has moved towards a pick'em and may bet Kelleher.

Brian Kelleher by decision
"Brian Kelleher by decision is my pick I'm gonna continue to wait watch this Market continue to move"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Apr 27, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Journey Newson

Zane picks Newson hesitantly due to McGhee's short notice, but acknowledges McGhee could blitz and win early. He notes Newson's wrestling and submission game could be effective if McGhee gasses. Zane is concerned about Newson's broken style but thinks the short notice favors him.

"I'm just going to take nuisance to win on the short notice but it's not you know if you're nuisance i wouldn't be happy about taking this fight frankly"
LOSS vs Sergey Morozov
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Cannonier vs. Strickland · Dec 17, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sergey Morozov 0 30 of 105 28% 65 of 145 6 of 13 46% 0 0 6:59
Journey Newson 0 26 of 106 24% 49 of 136 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sergey Morozov 0 12 of 43 27% 16 of 47 2 of 2 100% 0 0 1:24
Journey Newson 0 10 of 47 21% 11 of 48 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Sergey Morozov 0 11 of 38 28% 21 of 49 2 of 5 40% 0 0 2:21
Journey Newson 0 8 of 32 25% 14 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Sergey Morozov 0 7 of 24 29% 28 of 49 2 of 6 33% 0 0 3:14
Journey Newson 0 8 of 27 29% 24 of 49 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sergey Morozov 30 of 105 28% 7 of 76 8 of 12 15 of 17 16 of 88 9 of 11 5 of 6
Journey Newson 26 of 106 24% 10 of 78 7 of 14 9 of 14 25 of 104 1 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sergey Morozov 12 of 43 27% 4 of 34 2 of 3 6 of 6 8 of 37 3 of 4 1 of 2
Journey Newson 10 of 47 21% 6 of 40 3 of 6 1 of 1 10 of 46 0 of 1 0 of 0
2 Sergey Morozov 11 of 38 28% 2 of 25 5 of 7 4 of 6 5 of 31 2 of 3 4 of 4
Journey Newson 8 of 32 25% 0 of 18 3 of 5 5 of 9 8 of 32 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Sergey Morozov 7 of 24 29% 1 of 17 1 of 2 5 of 5 3 of 20 4 of 4 0 of 0
Journey Newson 8 of 27 29% 4 of 20 1 of 3 3 of 4 7 of 26 1 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Dec 11, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

Angelo gives a slight lean to Sergey Morozov, citing his better takedown defense and ability to stop takedown attempts while getting his own. However, he notes that Journey Newson looked incredible in his last fight and that version could beat Sergey. He believes this should be a 50/50 fight and plans to find a way to bet on Journey Newson as well.

Plans to bet on Journey Newson as underdog
"I'm gonna do I'm just gonna give the the slightest lean towards Sergey here because I think he's got the better takedown defense"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Dec 15, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

Big Brady likes Morozov to win but is hesitant due to durability concerns, noting Morozov has been finished in four of five losses and gets hurt often. However, he thinks Newson isn't a big power puncher so it shouldn't be a major issue. He expects Morozov to mix in takedowns and grind out a three-round decision. He can't get behind the moneyline at -300 but picks Morozov by decision.

Morozov by decision
"I like him to win I think a striking solid but I think in this matchup he's going to be able to go out there mixing takedowns whenever he wants... give me Rose off to win this one by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 14, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

Cody picks Morozov, noting his wrestling and well-rounded skills. He thinks Newson is a boxer with limited MMA skills and Morozov will take him down and control him. He expects a decision win but acknowledges a finish is possible.

Morozov by decision (considered)
"the pick will be certain Immortals yeah pick for me is going to be Sergey Morrison as well"
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

Connor picks Morozov, noting he is a high-level fighter with an aggressive, put-together game. He thinks Morozov will be the aggressive one, come forward, wrestle, and land combinations. He notes Newson is not durable and his game seems experimental.

"I just think morozov is given that kind of opponent he's like, oh i'm going to be the aggressive one. Great."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Dec 14, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

Paul picks Morozov, agreeing with Cody. He thinks Morozov's wrestling will be too much for Newson. He notes Newson's only path is a puncher's chance. He is not excited about the price but sees Morozov as a safe pick.

"roseov will be the pick for me"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Dec 13, 2022 (4 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

The MMA Guru picks Sergey Morozov over Journey Newson, citing Morozov's size and strength advantage. He notes that Newson is too small for bantamweight at 5'5" and expects Morozov to implement a grappling clinic. However, he expresses concern about Morozov's chin, as he has been hurt in recent fights by Halley and Paver and Douglas Silva de Andrade. Despite this, he trusts Morozov's grappling to get the job done, as Newson is not a consistent one-punch KO threat at bantamweight.

"I am going to be going with Sergey morozov here to start off the card"
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Dec 15, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Sergey Morozov

Zane picks Morozov, noting he has more options in exchanges and can punch his way into takedowns. He thinks Newson is not comfortable in protracted exchanges and Morozov will press his wrestling advantage. He also mentions Morozov might block a kick and knock Newson out.

"He only has to throw three punches getting inside one has to land and then he can do something else that isn't trading punches"
WIN vs Fernie Garcia
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 274: Oliveira vs. Gaethje · May 07, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Journey Newson 0 57 of 143 39% 63 of 150 2 of 3 66% 0 0 0:42
Fernie Garcia 0 37 of 103 35% 38 of 104 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Journey Newson 0 7 of 41 17% 8 of 42 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:17
Fernie Garcia 0 11 of 27 40% 12 of 28 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
2 Journey Newson 0 28 of 52 53% 29 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Fernie Garcia 0 14 of 41 34% 14 of 41 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Journey Newson 0 22 of 50 44% 26 of 55 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:25
Fernie Garcia 0 12 of 35 34% 12 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Journey Newson 57 of 143 39% 23 of 92 21 of 30 13 of 21 52 of 138 1 of 1 4 of 4
Fernie Garcia 37 of 103 35% 24 of 84 6 of 12 7 of 7 37 of 101 0 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Journey Newson 7 of 41 17% 2 of 30 2 of 5 3 of 6 7 of 41 0 of 0 0 of 0
Fernie Garcia 11 of 27 40% 10 of 25 0 of 1 1 of 1 11 of 27 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Journey Newson 28 of 52 53% 10 of 29 13 of 16 5 of 7 27 of 51 1 of 1 0 of 0
Fernie Garcia 14 of 41 34% 8 of 33 4 of 6 2 of 2 14 of 40 0 of 1 0 of 0
3 Journey Newson 22 of 50 44% 11 of 33 6 of 9 5 of 8 18 of 46 0 of 0 4 of 4
Fernie Garcia 12 of 35 34% 6 of 26 2 of 5 4 of 4 12 of 34 0 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Apr 30, 2022 (7 days before fight)
Fernie Garcia

Angelo gives a slight lean to Fernie Garcia, acknowledging that Garcia is the more technical fighter and uses wrestling better than Newson. However, he worries that Garcia's contender series knockout might make him overconfident in striking exchanges. He hopes Garcia sticks to a wrestling game plan to secure a win.

"I'm giving a slight lean to fernie here but i am worried that the contender series knockout has him thinking that he can trade strike for strike with newson"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked May 2, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Journey Newson

Big Brady picks Journey Newson to win by decision as an underdog. He believes the line is off because Garcia is getting the contender series hype. Newson has fought tougher competition (Ricardo Ramos, Randy Costa) and is well-rounded with power and a BJJ black belt. Garcia is a good wrestler but has low power and is hittable. Brady thinks the fight will be close on the feet, and Newson's experience gives him the edge. He expects Newson to win a competitive decision.

decision
"I'm going to take the dog here I'm going to take the dog here in journey newson to to get the upset line doesn't make much sense to me you know the contender series hype on garcia"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked May 4, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Journey Newson

Cody picks Journey Newson as his third underdog. He notes that Garcia has been in many split decisions and lacks finishing ability. Newson has power and could hurt Garcia if they exchange. Cody acknowledges the unknowns due to Newson's layoff but sees value at +130.

"i'm gonna go with the underdog journey newsome"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean picked May 5, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Fernie Garcia

Daniel Levi picks Fernie Garcia, citing his durability and Mexican warrior spirit. He thinks Garcia can eat Newson's best shots and outlast him. He is not confident and does not like the price, so he does not bet. He notes Newson is a liability to get dropped.

Daniel does not bet this fight. He mentions Garcia by decision but no bet.
"Give me Fernie Garcia. Not the most confident pick and do not like the price either."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked May 6, 2022 (1 day before fight)
Journey Newson

The host believes Journey Newson is being disrespected as the underdog. He notes Newson's good jiu-jitsu and takedown ability, and expects him to take the fight to the ground to counter Fernie Garcia's striking pressure. He criticizes Garcia's close decision fights and mediocre competition. He predicts Newson wins via decision or submission.

"give me journey newson uh and i'm gonna see i want to say submission but but i'll ultimately go uh via decision in this spot"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked May 4, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Journey Newson

Paul leans towards Journey Newson as an underdog. He notes that Newson kept it competitive against Ricardo Ramos and has power. Paul thinks Garcia is a boxer by trade but this is MMA, and Newson's power could be a factor. He is not fully confident but prefers Newson.

"i'm leaning towards journey news him as well"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 2, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Fernie Garcia

The MMA Guru picks Fernie Garcia, citing his favorite status and belief that he will win by TKO early in the first round. He notes that Journey Newson has been KO'd multiple times and lacks the physicality to keep up with Garcia. He also trusts Garcia's chin due to his ethnicity, suggesting he doesn't get KO'd easily. He predicts Garcia will put Newson away against the cage in the first round.

"i'm gonna side with fernie garcia here he is the favorite and i do believe that he's gonna get this one done maybe by tko early on in the first round"
LOSS vs Randy Costa
KO (head kick) R1 0:41 · UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Woodley · Sep 19, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Randy Costa 0 1 of 5 20% 1 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Journey Newson 1 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Randy Costa 0 1 of 5 20% 1 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Journey Newson 1 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:02
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Randy Costa 1 of 5 20% 1 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Randy Costa 1 of 5 20% 1 of 4 0 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0 2 of 4 0 of 0 2 of 2
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 17, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Randy Costa

Big Brady picks Randy Costa to get a first-round knockout, citing Costa's exciting style and willingness to throw with no regard. He notes Newson's path to victory is surviving the early storm or taking Costa down, but Costa has improved takedown defense. He eyes the under 1.5 rounds prop as plus money.

Under 1.5 rounds
"give me cost to get the first round knockout"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 18, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Journey Newson

The host believes Journey Newson is the more complete fighter with a brown belt in jiu-jitsu, while Randy Costa is a one-dimensional power puncher who fades after the first round. He expects Newson to weather Costa's early onslaught, take him down, and secure a submission. He notes Costa's lack of grappling experience and poor takedown defense, as seen in his loss to Brandon Davis.

Journey Newson wins by submission in round 1; Randy Costa wins in round 1 prop (if betting Costa)
"I think we'll see journey newson go out there and just get costed down within that first round or sorry first minute and really start to work his brown belt."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Randy Costa

The host picks Randy Costa over Journey Newson, citing Costa's youth, improvement, and ability to win wild exchanges. He notes Costa's knee injury in his loss to Brandon Davis and his recent first-round win. He predicts a first-round KO.

first round KO
"I'm going to be going with Randa Koster getting it done in a wild exchange in the first round... randy koster ends it with a big shot finishing journey newson in the first round."
LOSS vs Domingo Pilarte
No Contest (overturned) R1 0:38 · UFC 247: Jones vs. Reyes · Feb 08, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Journey Newson 0 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Domingo Pilarte 1 6 of 10 60% 7 of 13 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Journey Newson 0 1 of 4 25% 1 of 4 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Domingo Pilarte 1 6 of 10 60% 7 of 13 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Journey Newson 1 of 4 25% 0 of 3 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 2 1 of 2 0 of 0
Domingo Pilarte 6 of 10 60% 6 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 5 of 5
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Journey Newson 1 of 4 25% 0 of 3 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 2 1 of 2 0 of 0
Domingo Pilarte 6 of 10 60% 6 of 10 0 of 0 0 of 0 1 of 5 0 of 0 5 of 5
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Feb 7, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Domingo Pilarte

Daniel Levi picks Domingo Pilarte to win a decision. He notes Pilarte's size and reach advantage, and expects him to use his range to keep Newson at bay. He acknowledges Pilarte's defensive liabilities but believes Newson will hesitate to pull the trigger.

"I think that he's gonna win a decision here probably you know the 29-28"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Feb 5, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Journey Newson

The host leans toward Journey Newson as a dog, citing his superior jiu-jitsu and ability to get the better of grappling exchanges. He notes that Pilarte is the better wrestler but Newson may have the edge on the ground. He expects the fight to be a grappling match and sees value in Newson at plus money.

"I'm gonna pick another dog here I'm gonna go a journey Newson I think that you know his jiu-jitsu is really gonna come in handy here yeah I'm gonna go when Newson"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 31, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Journey Newson

The MMA Guru gives the edge to Journey Newson, noting that Domingo Pilarte's loss to Felipe Colares (who was destroyed by Montel Jackson) is a bad look, while Newson's loss to Ricardo Ramos is more acceptable. He sees a clear decision win for Newson.

clear decision win
"I'm giving the edge to journeying use tener I think he's gonna get the job done over Domingo Pilate I don't see a finish but I could see a clear decision win for journey nuisance"
LOSS vs Ricardo Ramos
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Ngannou vs. dos Santos · Jun 29, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Ricardo Ramos 0 40 of 120 33% 48 of 129 3 of 3 100% 0 0 2:45
Journey Newson 0 38 of 123 30% 41 of 127 0 of 1 0% 1 0 0:10
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Ricardo Ramos 0 9 of 39 23% 10 of 40 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:45
Journey Newson 0 10 of 36 27% 12 of 39 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:10
2 Ricardo Ramos 0 17 of 47 36% 17 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Journey Newson 0 17 of 59 28% 17 of 59 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Ricardo Ramos 0 14 of 34 41% 21 of 42 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:00
Journey Newson 0 11 of 28 39% 12 of 29 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Ricardo Ramos 40 of 120 33% 23 of 90 8 of 17 9 of 13 37 of 117 1 of 1 2 of 2
Journey Newson 38 of 123 30% 9 of 80 9 of 18 20 of 25 37 of 122 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Ricardo Ramos 9 of 39 23% 2 of 25 2 of 6 5 of 8 8 of 38 1 of 1 0 of 0
Journey Newson 10 of 36 27% 0 of 22 3 of 7 7 of 7 9 of 35 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Ricardo Ramos 17 of 47 36% 11 of 39 3 of 4 3 of 4 17 of 47 0 of 0 0 of 0
Journey Newson 17 of 59 28% 5 of 38 4 of 8 8 of 13 17 of 59 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Ricardo Ramos 14 of 34 41% 10 of 26 3 of 7 1 of 1 12 of 32 0 of 0 2 of 2
Journey Newson 11 of 28 39% 4 of 20 2 of 3 5 of 5 11 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0
Expert Picks (3)
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 17, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Randy Costa

Big Brady picks Randy Costa to get a first-round knockout, citing Costa's exciting style and willingness to throw with no regard. He notes Newson's path to victory is surviving the early storm or taking Costa down, but Costa has improved takedown defense. He eyes the under 1.5 rounds prop as plus money.

Under 1.5 rounds
"give me cost to get the first round knockout"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 18, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Journey Newson

The host believes Journey Newson is the more complete fighter with a brown belt in jiu-jitsu, while Randy Costa is a one-dimensional power puncher who fades after the first round. He expects Newson to weather Costa's early onslaught, take him down, and secure a submission. He notes Costa's lack of grappling experience and poor takedown defense, as seen in his loss to Brandon Davis.

Journey Newson wins by submission in round 1; Randy Costa wins in round 1 prop (if betting Costa)
"I think we'll see journey newson go out there and just get costed down within that first round or sorry first minute and really start to work his brown belt."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Randy Costa

The host picks Randy Costa over Journey Newson, citing Costa's youth, improvement, and ability to win wild exchanges. He notes Costa's knee injury in his loss to Brandon Davis and his recent first-round win. He predicts a first-round KO.

first round KO
"I'm going to be going with Randa Koster getting it done in a wild exchange in the first round... randy koster ends it with a big shot finishing journey newson in the first round."