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Age 37
Height 6' 0"
Reach 74.0"
Weight 145 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 37
Height 5' 6"
Reach 67.0"
Weight 135 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Career Averages - Giga Chikadze
3.75 SLpM
42.0% Str. Acc.
3.47 SApM
59.0% Str. Def.
0.18 TD Avg
33.0% TD Acc.
65.0% TD Def.
0.2 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Irwin Rivera
3.36 SLpM
44.0% Str. Acc.
5.07 SApM
57.0% Str. Def.
1.0 TD Avg
16.0% TD Acc.
70.0% TD Def.
0.0 Sub. Avg
Giga Chikadze - Fight History
LOSS vs Kevin Vallejos
KO R2 1:29 · UFC on ESPN: Royval vs. Kape · Dec 13, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 0 12 of 22 54% 19 of 29 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Kevin Vallejos 1 20 of 32 62% 23 of 35 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:28
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 0 9 of 17 52% 16 of 24 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Kevin Vallejos 0 9 of 18 50% 12 of 21 0 of 1 0% 0 0 1:27
2 Giga Chikadze 0 3 of 5 60% 3 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Kevin Vallejos 1 11 of 14 78% 11 of 14 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 12 of 22 54% 2 of 10 10 of 10 0 of 2 12 of 22 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kevin Vallejos 20 of 32 62% 14 of 24 2 of 3 4 of 5 15 of 26 1 of 2 4 of 4
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 9 of 17 52% 1 of 8 8 of 8 0 of 1 9 of 17 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kevin Vallejos 9 of 18 50% 6 of 13 1 of 2 2 of 3 8 of 16 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Giga Chikadze 3 of 5 60% 1 of 2 2 of 2 0 of 1 3 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Kevin Vallejos 11 of 14 78% 8 of 11 1 of 1 2 of 2 7 of 10 0 of 0 4 of 4
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Giga Chikadze vs. Kevin Vallejos
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Vallejos (-300); Chikadze (+240)

Round 1
A potential banger at 145 pounds may treat fans over the next three rounds or fewer, as former Glory kickboxer Chikadze (15-5, 8-3 UFC) plies his trade against surging Argentinian Vallejos (16-1, 2-0 UFC). Before the feet, elbows, knees and fists fly, referee Mark Smith has to clock the fighters in. When he does, they opt to touch gloves.
After about 20 seconds of the two measuring one another, Vallejos breaks the silence with a low kick. The two stay at a wide berth from one another, too far for kicking range so they just shadowbox and hop around. Chikadze is well short of his intended target when he finally does throw his first kick, and when he tries another, he slips. Vallejos runs at him to take advantage of the moment, but Chikadze recovers and bails before Vallejos can pin him down. They get back to the center of the Octagon bobbing and faking at one another, striking totals in the single digits after two minutes. Vallejos lobs a low kick, and Chikadze checks it and splits his shin wide open.
Both men land flush, and Vallejos pushes after the kickboxer and pressures him to the wall. Smith admonishes someone for chattering at him during the fight, and they split apart. The shin wound from before gradually widens, with blood streaming down his foot. Vallejos walks the striker down and pumps him in the jaw, and he dodges a spinning wheel kick as the uneventful round wraps.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Dayne Fox scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
The two strikers once again are tentative to get going. Chikadze eventually goes into action with a body kick and a high kick. The kicks from the Georgian are keeping Vallejos from largely going after him, until he decides it is time to start fighting. He steps back to avoid a low kick, and reaches out with a right hand over the top. This clips Chikadze, who is surprised that the strike hurt him as badly as it did and backs off in a hurry. Vallejos loads up with a second that lands on the neck, and Chikadze shrugs at him, his back to the fence. Vallejos opens up with a right hand to the body that misses, but this is to set a deadly trap.
He spins with the momentum gained by turning into the direction of his right hook, and he crashes a spinning back fist square into Chikadze’s dome. Chikadze crumples to the floor at an odd angle, his right arm trapped beneath him and his left stuck as well. This allows the Argentinian to demolish him with three concussive elbows, each of which seem to shut off and reawaken the “Ninja” in rapid, painful succession.
Smith sees that Chikadze’s eyes are wide and staring lifelessly at the mat, and he waves the fight off. Chikadze tries to work himself back to his feet but is struggling to stay upright under his own power. This is the first time he has been knocked out, with Vallejos walking off triumphantly.

The Official Result
Kevin Vallejos def. Giga Chikadze R2 1:29 via KO (Spinning Back Fist and Elbows)
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Vallejos

Cody picks Vallejos, citing Giga's age, injuries, and lack of interest. He notes Vallejos's youth, durability, and pressure style, and expects him to outwork Giga by mixing in takedowns and volume. He predicts a decision win for Vallejos.

Vallejos by decision +150
"I got Kevin Vallejos to get the job done here."
LU
Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Dec 7, 2025 (6 days before fight)
Kevin Vallejos

Lucrative James is a fan of Kevin Vallejos and picks him to win, possibly by knockout. He highlights Vallejos' youth, athleticism, power, and multiple paths to victory, including grappling and boxing. He notes Giga Chikadze's cardio issues and susceptibility to grappling, and believes Vallejos can finish him. He projects Vallejos as a -250 favorite.

"I'm picking Kevin in this fight. I think he's going to go out there and I'm going to pick a KO outright."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Dec 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)
Kevin Vallejos

Paul also picks Vallejos, emphasizing that the key to beating Giga is constant pressure, which Vallejos excels at. He mentions Vallejos's takedown threat and body work, and suggests a Vallejos by decision prop at plus 150.

Vallejos by decision +150
"Vallejos by decision plus 150 is the best on market. It's probably how I will approach that fight this week."
LOSS vs David Onama
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Machado Garry vs. Prates · Apr 26, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 0 43 of 91 47% 71 of 127 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
David Onama 0 49 of 87 56% 72 of 127 3 of 3 100% 0 0 6:15
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 0 21 of 43 48% 26 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
David Onama 0 13 of 26 50% 13 of 30 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:44
2 Giga Chikadze 0 11 of 20 55% 19 of 29 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
David Onama 0 18 of 32 56% 28 of 43 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:07
3 Giga Chikadze 0 11 of 28 39% 26 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
David Onama 0 18 of 29 62% 31 of 54 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:24
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 43 of 91 47% 23 of 66 8 of 11 12 of 14 40 of 88 2 of 2 1 of 1
David Onama 49 of 87 56% 29 of 55 1 of 6 19 of 26 38 of 75 1 of 1 10 of 11
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 21 of 43 48% 9 of 26 4 of 7 8 of 10 21 of 43 0 of 0 0 of 0
David Onama 13 of 26 50% 9 of 17 0 of 2 4 of 7 13 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Giga Chikadze 11 of 20 55% 8 of 17 1 of 1 2 of 2 8 of 17 2 of 2 1 of 1
David Onama 18 of 32 56% 8 of 19 1 of 2 9 of 11 11 of 24 1 of 1 6 of 7
3 Giga Chikadze 11 of 28 39% 6 of 23 3 of 3 2 of 2 11 of 28 0 of 0 0 of 0
David Onama 18 of 29 62% 12 of 19 0 of 2 6 of 8 14 of 25 0 of 0 4 of 4
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Giga Chikadze (147: Missed Weight) vs. David Onama
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Onama (-180), Chikadze (+150)

Round 1
One fight tonight takes place outside of normal weight divisions, and it does so because Chikadze (15-4, 8-2 UFC) clocked in a pound heavy. The Georgian gives 20% of his purse to local fellow striker Onama (13-2, 5-2 UFC), and this one should be a whole lot of fun. Before an all-out brawl ensues, referee Keith Peterson takes charge of the cage. The fighters meet in the middle without a glove touch or any nonsense. Chikadze works from a range with a long punch, three kicks and one more punch upstairs. Chikadze chambers and fires a body kick, and Onama walks him down and reaches him with two kicks. Chikadze beats Onama to the punch with a one-two, and after a lull in the action, he quickly releases two head kicks that bang into the guard. Chikadze swings a right and then a left into the guard, with Onama shelling up just in time. Chikadze hand-fights to prevent Onama from firing anything of note, and he puts together a combination of punches ending with a kick. Onama parries a kick but has a left hand wrapped around his guard. Chikadze spins with a wheel kick that is blocked, and he lands and sneaks in a left hand. The Georgian hammers the front leg with a kick, and he aims one to the other leg before Onama can get to him. Onama reaches his target with a sharp right hand, snapping the head back and stunning the former kickboxer. Chikadze gathers a full head of steam and lashes out with a flurry of feet and fists, and Onama is able to stay right in front of him lunging with his powerful right hand. Chikadze steps in with a knee that clatters off the guard, and Onama’s long left gets in. Onama walks through a low kick to put punches on his opponent, and Chikadze is quick to reply with a step-in knee. Chikadze cracks Onama with a straight right hand, and Onama is on baby deer legs trying to stay upright. As Chikadze moves in for the kill, Onama wraps him up and gets behind him, lowering “Ninja” to the floor and taking most of his weapons away. Onama lands in half guard, with Chikadze actively attacking off his back with punches. Chikadze wraps up the guard, and he hacks with elbows until the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
The strikers resume in the second round, with Onama walking Chikadze down pecking at his lead leg with kicks. The low kicks are in part to set up a left hand for “Silent Assassin,” and Chikadze recognizes this and plants his fist on Onama’s face. Onama chips at the front leg and blocks a spinning back elbow, with his guard raised to defend a subsequent left hook. Onama gives Chikadze chase, catching him with an uppercut in the midst of a combination. Chikadze nails the front leg with a kick, and Onama shoots in for a double that he easily lands. Chikadze lands an elbow to the back of the head, and Onama hooks his legs between Chikadze’s to shut down his escape attempt. Onama steps over to the side, and Chikadze uses his feet to push off the wall and try to find a better position. Onama smothers until the Atlanta Braves’ chant is sung again from the crowd. Chikadze is desperate to stand, and Onama stops his efforts even if he does not otherwise attack with anything. Chikadze thinks about a guillotine choke, and when he moves and sits up, Onama bowls him over to his back. Onama in half guard loops his right arm behind Chikadze’s head for an arm-triangle setup, letting it go to drop down two harsh elbows. “Silent Assassin” quietly nullifies Chikadze with his top control, getting off the occasional strike until the clapper sounds with 10 seconds left. Onama lets Chikadze back up so he can measure a body kick, and backs off until the horn. He then raises his arms in the air to pump up the crowd, as they did not have a lot to cheer about in that last round otherwise.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Onama
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Onama
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Onama

Round 3
Onama again tries to pump up the audience to start the final frame, but when Peterson clocks them in, they do not do much for the first 30 seconds. Onama slowly works up his pace, landing punches and kicks until Chikadze retaliates. The Georgian responds with multiple head kicks, and his short left hook is out of reach. Onama knocks him back with two punches, and Chikadze stands in the pocket and bangs back. Chikadze lets fly a body kick, and he strikes the same spot with a left hand. When Onama lands, Chikadze gives him back a flurry of punches to think about and an axe kick for good measure. Chikadze is quicker than Onama at leading into exchanges, and he does not bite on the feints. Chikadze sneaks in a right hand just before Onama can get him, and Onama shoots in for a takedown and crashes straight into Chikadze’s dome with a loud clacking sound. Onama successfully tackles his man to the mat, foul not assessed as Chikadze was lowering himself down to defend the entry. Onama controls his man until Chikadze bursts his way to his feet. In the process, Chikadze gives up his back, and Onama leaps on it and uses it to wrangle Chikadze down to the ground again. Onama starts getting busy with his free left hand and arm, punching until an elbow presents itself. When Onama postures up, Chikadze times him with butterfly hooks to momentarily push him off. Onama gets back on top and lashes out with elbows, and Chikadze responds with a few of his own. Onama punches until time expires, with this final round likely the swing that determines the victor.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Onama (29-28 Onama)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Onama (29-28 Onama)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Onama (29-28 Onama)

The Official Result
David Onama def. Giga Chikadze via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 20, 2025 (6 days before fight)
David Onama

Angelo picks David Onama, citing his activity and pressure against a inactive Giga Chikadze. He notes that Giga is one-dimensional and has been out for two years, while Onama is a kickboxer who should stay busy and win. The odds have moved from -150 to -183 in Onama's favor.

"David Oama should win this fight."
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean picked Apr 22, 2025 (4 days before fight)
David Onama

Big Brady leans toward David Onama, assuming he will grapple. He notes Giga Chikadze's takedown defense is poor and he has been controlled on the ground before. If Onama strikes, he favors Chikadze. He predicts Onama will get takedowns, wear on Chikadze, and find a submission in the second round.

second round submission
"Give me David Oama to win this fight by second round submission."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Connor picks Chikadze because he has a significant spatial advantage over Onama, who struggles at range and needs to brawl to be effective. Chikadze's movement and ability to keep distance will make it hard for Onama to force the kind of fight he needs. Connor also notes that Chikadze is a dangerous striker who can hurt Onama, as seen in Onama's previous fights where he got hurt but survived.

"I have to pick Giga. I'm going to pick Giga Chicago as well. His chain has always seen him through just as well as it's he's Onama through."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2025 (1 day before fight)
David Onama

The host expects Onama to meet Chikadze's jab with bigger power, mix in grappling, and land more damage over 15 minutes to win on the scorecards.

"I expect him to go out there and meet the jab of Chicad with bigger power... which will lead him to win this fight on the scorecards by landing more damage over the course of 15 minutes."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 22, 2025 (4 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze as an underdog. He believes Chikadze is a better striker and underrated, citing his close fight with Arnold Allen. He criticizes Onama's low fight IQ, poor training habits, and vulnerability to pressure. He expects Chikadze to win by TKO, as Onama has been dropped by lesser opponents.

"I'm going with Giga Traedzi. David Onarma is good, but Giga Chici just went to a 29-28 decision with Arnold Allen. And I'm gonna say it, round two was very close."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2025 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Zane picks Chikadze, agreeing with Connor that Chikadze's spatial advantage and ability to keep Onama at range will be key. Onama's only path to victory is to brawl, but Chikadze won't let him get close. Zane also notes that Onama has been hurt in almost every fight and Chikadze is a very dangerous striker who can finish him early. However, if Onama survives the early onslaught, he could win round three.

"I got to take Chicago as well. He may, he may also, like, I want to put a point in effect that like, just because Onama hasn't really been getting finished, he is getting hurt."
LOSS vs Arnold Allen
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 304: Edwards vs. Muhammad 2 · Jul 27, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Arnold Allen 0 61 of 122 50% 61 of 122 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Giga Chikadze 0 38 of 111 34% 39 of 112 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Arnold Allen 0 13 of 22 59% 13 of 22 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Giga Chikadze 0 14 of 33 42% 15 of 34 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Arnold Allen 0 16 of 43 37% 16 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Giga Chikadze 0 13 of 40 32% 13 of 40 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Arnold Allen 0 32 of 57 56% 32 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Giga Chikadze 0 11 of 38 28% 11 of 38 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Arnold Allen 61 of 122 50% 43 of 95 16 of 22 2 of 5 61 of 122 0 of 0 0 of 0
Giga Chikadze 38 of 111 34% 22 of 83 12 of 24 4 of 4 38 of 111 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Arnold Allen 13 of 22 59% 9 of 17 4 of 5 0 of 0 13 of 22 0 of 0 0 of 0
Giga Chikadze 14 of 33 42% 7 of 22 5 of 9 2 of 2 14 of 33 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Arnold Allen 16 of 43 37% 9 of 30 5 of 9 2 of 4 16 of 43 0 of 0 0 of 0
Giga Chikadze 13 of 40 32% 9 of 32 2 of 6 2 of 2 13 of 40 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Arnold Allen 32 of 57 56% 25 of 48 7 of 8 0 of 1 32 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Giga Chikadze 11 of 38 28% 6 of 29 5 of 9 0 of 0 11 of 38 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Arnold Allen vs. Giga Chikadze
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Allen (-250), Chikadze (+205)

Round 1
A relevant featherweight encounter kicks off the main card of UFC 304, with Britain’s Allen (19-3, 10-2 UFC) trying to snap a two-fight skid at the expense of Georgian striker Chikadze (15-3, 8-1 UFC). The fans have picked their side on this one, and it is safe to say they are not rooting for the man who calls himself “Ninja.” Referee Marc Goddard will observe the proceedings for the next 15 minutes or less, and he sits back as the combatants opt not to touch gloves. Chikadze tests the waters early with a head kick, and he fires it a second time as Allen has his guard up for both of them. Chikadze kicks the side and then the front leg, only to go up high. Allen catches a body kick and tries to take Chikadze for a ride, but Chikadze bounces away and lands a kick on the way out. Allen walks him down, dinging Chikadze with a left hook as Chikadze continues to spam kicks to all three targets. Chikadze jabs and settles down, aiming a second to the chest and staying light on his feet. Allen cannot find his way in, hand-fighting and taking a body kick when trying. Chikadze sits down on a straight right hand when Allen bears down on him, and Allen takes it like a champ and gives back a high kick that hits the shoulder. Chikadze’s head kicks are all blocked, but the front forearm of his foe is reddening after absorbing the quick blows. Allen sticks a jab and ducks down to work the body before Chikadze can get away, and Chikadze gives him a body kick back to think about. A spinning wheel kick from Chikadze goes wide, and his high kick pounds into the glove of his foe. Allen responds with a single body kick, and Chikadze splits the guard with a straight right hand and follows with two speedy body kicks. Chikadze scores a check left hook and is met with a counter left hand, and Allen walks after him tossing out a kick easily blocked. Allen walks into a punch and a kick, and Chikadze pecks at him with a front kick as he constantly mixes up his attacks. Allen connects at the end of a right hand, shaking Chikadze up for a moment, but Chikadze does not back himself into a corner and instead reaches with his own right. Allen tries to wind up with leaping shots, and Chikadze is evasive and hard to get hands on. Allen ducks right into a knee, and he wobbles to the side and punts Chikadze in the face with the ball of his foot. As the Brit raises his arms in the air, the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
Allen rushes out of his corner to attack, landing a right hand out of the gate. Chikadze hand-fights to block anything else aimed his way, and he slides away from two left hooks. Chikadze zings a high kick that brushes his foe’s hair, and Allen aims a body shot in response. Allen scores a solid calf kick and powers out with a left hand, only to be met with three piston-like jabs. Allen chops at the front calf, and Chikadze gives him one right back and jabs him to boot. Allen scores two punches, and he just avoids getting blasted with a step-in knee. Allen rings Chikadze’s bell with a straight left hand, and Chikadze has to take a quick count of his teeth. Chikadze’s speed gives Allen issues, but Allen is ignoring the strikes he absorbs and coming back with venom. Allen blocks a high kick and reaches out with a left to the sternum, and his hands are high to defend against another head kick. Chikadze shakes Allen up with a head kick, and Allen knocks him back with a left hand. Chikadze shakes it off and strafes to the side, constantly moving to not remain a stationary target. Chikadze has an uppercut come up short, and Allen nearly cuts him off with a one-two. Chikadze lands, Allen gives him one back, and Chikadze is away and spamming kicks. Allen beans “Ninja” with a solid left hand, drawing blood from both nostrils. Allen has his leg kicked out on the way in, but he still manages to get off a wide left hand. Allen chambers and fires left hands, and Chikadze prods his front leg with a kick and slips the overhand left. Allen catches him with another left, and he shoves away a leaping Chikadze and kicks high. Chikadze responds with a body kick, and the back-and-forth round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Allen
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Allen
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Allen

Round 3
The Brit chases Chikadze around the cage as soon as the last round begins, and he manages to get his hands on Chikadze with a left hand or two. Allen walks the Georgian down, and he dodges two punches and reaches with a single shot that smears blood on Chikadze’s forehead. Chikadze comes back firing with a left over the top, and he has a body kick reach before Allen can get to him. Allen front kicks his man and elbows his way in, and Chikadze escapes as fast as he can. Allen rips a body shot and Chikadze is still ready to sling back high kicks, but they have far less sting on them than before. Allen gets off a left, takes two body kicks and continues pressuring his man around the Octagon. Chikadze steps in with a right hand and responds with a heavy left, and he follows him along with another hard left. Allen’s left hand is again accurate, and Chikadze springs into action with a body kick and a punch. Allen goes to the body and then kicks on the other side, and his left hand is hurled at Chikadze’s pectoral. Allen tosses a front kick aside and catches his foe with a left hook, and Chikadze spins but does not release anything. Allen eats a body kick without flinching so he can unload punches, and he puts a one-two down the pipe and chases Chikadze with a right. Allen ends the fight with a jump knee, and the two share an embrace and have a conversation after 15 minutes of striking.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Allen (29-28 Allen)
Devin Tejada scores the round: 10-9 Allen (29-28 Allen)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Allen (29-28 Allen)

The Official Result
Arnold Allen def. Giga Chikadze via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 21, 2024 (6 days before fight)
Arnold Allen

Angelo picks Arnold Allen, noting that despite Allen being on a two-fight skid, those losses were to top competition (Max Holloway and Movsar Evloev). He argues that Allen looked better in those losses than Giga did in his win over Alex Caceres, where Giga was slow and threw few combinations. Angelo expects Allen to control the striking rhythm and predicts a decision win, possibly hitting the over on rounds.

over on round line
"I think Arnold controls the Striking Rhythm here I think this could look like when Qatar remember Calvin Qatar or Kar beat Giga Chad a few years ago this could look like that"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Arnold Allen

Cody picks Arnold Allen, citing his fast starts and wrestling. He notes that Giga Chikadze has not faced many wrestlers and was taken down by Calvin Kattar, who is not known for wrestling. Cody believes Allen can pressure Giga, mix in takedowns, and win a decision. He also points out that Giga is older, injury-prone, and has had long layoffs, while Allen is a step down in competition after fighting Max Holloway and Movsar Evloev.

"I'm gonna go Arnold Allen like honestly this guy was on a very solid run and earned a lot of respect from people... I do expect him to get the victory whether he shows up and shows out and puts …"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Jul 25, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Arnold Allen

Daniel picks Arnold Allen, citing his grappling advantage and youth. He believes Allen can out-grapple Chikadze and should avoid kickboxing with the kickboxer. He notes Allen has more gas in the tank despite two straight losses.

"I will take the almighty one"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Arnold Allen

Daniel likes Arnold Allen's southpaw calf kicks and blitzing style but dislikes the price (-230). He thinks Giga Chikadze has cardio issues and can be drained by takedowns. He expects a close fight likely going the distance and picks Allen to edge it out.

"I'mma go Arie to to Edge it out"
JE
Jeff Fox Expert Confident picked Jul 25, 2024 (2 days before fight)
Arnold Allen

Jeff picks Arnold Allen, noting he can win on the feet as well as by grappling. He praises Allen's body defense (except against Max Holloway) and his volume. He points out Chikadze sometimes takes long to get going and lacks volume, which Allen can exploit. He expects the line to be closer but still takes Allen.

"I like Arnold Allen in this one too I I think you know like to your point I think he could grapple in this maybe uh but I actually think he could win this fight on the feed too"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Jul 24, 2024 (3 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Paul leans towards Giga Chikadze as a dog, citing the value at plus 205. He believes if the fight stays on the feet, it will be competitive and Giga has the striking advantage. Paul acknowledges the risks of jet lag and the UK crowd but thinks the line is too wide. He expects a competitive fight and is willing to take the dog.

"I think at plus 205 the value will be squarely on Giga... I'll take the dog in that type of situation."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jul 22, 2024 (5 days before fight)
Arnold Allen

The MMA Guru picks Arnold Allen, believing he can use his offensive grappling to exploit Giga Chikadze's takedown defense. He notes that Chikadze has been exposed on the ground every time he's been taken down. The Guru also thinks Allen is close to Max Holloway's level, as shown in their fight, and that Chikadze's win over Alex Caceres was unimpressive. He predicts Allen will win by decision, possibly 29-28, using grappling in the later rounds.

decision
"I think Arnold Allen's got this one in the bag I don't see jetti troubling him with punches kicks to the body maybe a problem but I think that's going to open up some potential takedowns for Arnold Allen"
WIN vs Alex Caceres
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Holloway vs. The Korean Zombie · Aug 26, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 0 65 of 141 46% 65 of 141 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Caceres 0 62 of 168 36% 62 of 168 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 0 17 of 30 56% 17 of 30 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Caceres 0 15 of 39 38% 15 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Giga Chikadze 0 23 of 44 52% 23 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Caceres 0 24 of 61 39% 24 of 61 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Giga Chikadze 0 25 of 67 37% 25 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Caceres 0 23 of 68 33% 23 of 68 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 65 of 141 46% 25 of 83 22 of 38 18 of 20 65 of 139 0 of 2 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 62 of 168 36% 25 of 110 25 of 44 12 of 14 62 of 168 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 17 of 30 56% 7 of 16 5 of 8 5 of 6 17 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 15 of 39 38% 5 of 23 5 of 10 5 of 6 15 of 39 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Giga Chikadze 23 of 44 52% 14 of 30 4 of 9 5 of 5 23 of 43 0 of 1 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 24 of 61 39% 8 of 40 12 of 16 4 of 5 24 of 61 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Giga Chikadze 25 of 67 37% 4 of 37 13 of 21 8 of 9 25 of 66 0 of 1 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 23 of 68 33% 12 of 47 8 of 18 3 of 3 23 of 68 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Giga Chikadze vs. Alex Caceres
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Chikadze (-245), Caceres (+200)

Round 1
A hotly anticipated featherweight scrap heats up the room in Southeast Asia. Chikadze finds his way back into the cage for the first time in more than a year and looks to rebound from a decision defeat to Calvin Kattar that put an end to his nine-fight winning streak. Caceres appears to be enjoying a mid-career resurgence, with victories seven of his past eight bouts. Marc Goddard gets the nod to officiate. Caceres opens with a side kick to the body and looks light on his feet. Chikadze stalks from the center of the cage and uses feints to back up the Miami native. Caceres connects with a crisp one-two, then stomps at the knee. Chikadze partially blocks and spinning backfist and targets the body with one of his patented kicks. Caceres controls the center of the cage but eats a right hand over the top. His unorthodox style seems to be giving Chikadze trouble. Caceras throws in a jab, follows it with a low kick and misfires on a Superman punch. Chikadze still throwing in single strikes. So far, Caceres is holding his own on the feet. Chikadze meets him with a jab in the center of the cage, as Caceres lunges in and out with punches. They trade right hands as the horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Caceres
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Caceres
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
Caceres once again gets out of the gate first. Chikadze looks keen to counter, but the Georgian is still only throwing one shot at a time. Lack of output is limiting his effectiveness. Chikadze follows a sharp jab with a right cross. The Kings MMA rep seems to have found his rang and timing, as he starts to connect in combination. Caceres dives in with a right hook to the body and exits without absorbing anything in return. Chikadze steps into a right hand, then follows a jab with a heavy straight right, snapping back his counterpart’s head. There is a noticeable difference in the impact of their shots. Chikadze uncorks a kicks to the body, backs out of the pocket and answers a leg kick with a right cross. Momentum has definitely shifted here.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 3
Chikadze gives Caceres pause with a head kick to start Round 3, then rattles him with a jarring right hook. The Georgian counters a low kick with an overhand right and continues to land the more impactful blows. Caceres probably needs to alter his strategy, though he punctuates a nice combination with a partially blocked head kick. The Miami native smiles, as Chikadze remains stoic and hunts opportunities. Kicks to the leg and body back up Caceres, who is swinging and missing far more often now. Chikadze steps into another right hand, nearly spinning around “The Ultimate Fighter” Season 12 graduate. With 90 seconds left, Caceres needs to put forth something significant. Chikadze circles on the outside and delivers a heavy kick to the chest. A two-punch volley comes next. Caceres is running out of time. Chikadze counters while moving backward and chews up the remaining seconds on the clock.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (29-28 Chikadze)
Tudor Leonte scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (29-28 Chikadze)
J.L. Kirven scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (30-27 Chikadze)

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Alex Caceres—Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-37, 30-27)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Aug 20, 2023 (6 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Angelo sees Giga as the much better striker and dangerous, but worries about the long layoff (1.5 years) and takedown defense issues from past losses. He notes that Caceres is a tough veteran with good scrambles. He picks Giga but is undecided on betting him, as the layoff and Caceres' toughness give him pause.

"this should be Giga all day long he's going to be the much better Striker the far more dangerous guy"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 21, 2023 (5 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Big Brady acknowledges Giga Chikadze's long layoff and loss to Calvin Kattar but sees this as a good matchup for him. He notes that Alex Caceres doesn't use his wrestling and prefers to strike, which favors Giga. He believes Giga is the better striker with more power and tools, and expects him to win a kickboxing fight by decision.

decision
"I like eager here to win a kickboxing fight across 15 minutes"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Cody is tempted by the underdog line on Caceres but ultimately picks Chikadze. He notes that Caceres has a grappling advantage but may not be able to get takedowns against a high-level striker. Chikadze's striking is elite and he should win if he keeps it standing. Cody is not highly confident due to the 16-month layoff and grappling risk.

"super tempted by that Underdog money and I think it's very juicy but there's a couple other underdogs later on"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Daniel picks Giga Chikadze, noting that this is a major step down in competition from Calvin Kattar. He believes Giga's power advantage is one-sided and that Caceres doesn't have the power to hurt him. He acknowledges concerns about Giga's layoff and surgeries, but thinks he cruises to a victory, possibly by knockout. He mentions that Caceres has a grappling edge but rarely uses takedowns.

"if I have to pick a winner I think Giga probably cruises to a victory here could even be a knockout"
LU
Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Aug 26, 2023 (fight day)
Alex Caceres

James picks Alex Caceres as an underdog, citing Giga's long layoff, age (35), and the beating he took from Calvin Kattar. He believes Caceres can keep the striking close and has a massive grappling edge if the fight goes to the mat. He notes Giga gasses quickly after grappling exchanges, and Caceres could submit him or win via cardio advantage. He sees value at +210.

bet on Alex Caceres moneyline
"I've actually got a bell and Alex caceres here"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Alex Caceres

The host notes Giga Chikadze has been out for over a year and was exposed by Calvin Kattar's grappling. He believes Caceres is in his best form, with an unorthodox striking style and a dangerous Jiu-Jitsu game. The host expects Caceres to stifle Chikadze's early power, take the fight to the ground, and possibly find a submission. He calls the +210 odds 'crazy' and picks Caceres by decision.

"The fact that we can get Alexis air as close to plus 210 in this fight I think is crazy."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Aug 24, 2023 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Paul agrees with Cody, noting that Caceres' path to victory is via grappling, but Chikadze's striking is superior. He mentions Caceres' loss to Yusuff as a blueprint for how this fight could go. Paul is not confident enough to bet Chikadze at the price.

"total agreement not don't really have anything to add to that one"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2023 (4 days before fight)
Alex Caceres

The MMA Guru picks Alex Caceres as an underdog over Giga Chikadze, envisioning Caceres finding a back take and rear-naked choke. He notes Caceres' momentum and two-fight winning streak, and Chikadze's struggles against well-rounded opponents who threaten takedowns. He believes Chikadze's best performances are against pure strikers, and Caceres' grappling threat will make Chikadze second-guess. He predicts a submission in round two via standing back take.

Submission via rear-naked choke in round 2 predicted
"I'm gonna go Alex casares ... my heart is telling me that he finds the back at some point and gets a really naked joke"
LOSS vs Calvin Kattar
Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 50–45, 50–44) R5 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Kattar vs. Chikadze · Jan 15, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Calvin Kattar 1 144 of 402 35% 157 of 418 2 of 7 28% 1 1 3:42
Giga Chikadze 0 128 of 347 36% 129 of 348 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:09
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Calvin Kattar 0 4 of 7 57% 17 of 23 1 of 1 100% 1 1 3:19
Giga Chikadze 0 8 of 19 42% 9 of 20 0 of 0 --- 0 1 0:09
2 Calvin Kattar 0 28 of 81 34% 28 of 81 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:08
Giga Chikadze 0 38 of 99 38% 38 of 99 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Calvin Kattar 0 25 of 87 28% 25 of 87 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:08
Giga Chikadze 0 22 of 67 32% 22 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
4 Calvin Kattar 0 36 of 102 35% 36 of 102 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:02
Giga Chikadze 0 28 of 70 40% 28 of 70 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
5 Calvin Kattar 1 51 of 125 40% 51 of 125 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Giga Chikadze 0 32 of 92 34% 32 of 92 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Calvin Kattar 144 of 402 35% 127 of 369 13 of 28 4 of 5 135 of 390 2 of 2 7 of 10
Giga Chikadze 128 of 347 36% 94 of 297 27 of 41 7 of 9 127 of 344 1 of 3 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Calvin Kattar 4 of 7 57% 2 of 5 0 of 0 2 of 2 3 of 5 0 of 0 1 of 2
Giga Chikadze 8 of 19 42% 4 of 14 2 of 2 2 of 3 8 of 19 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Calvin Kattar 28 of 81 34% 26 of 77 2 of 3 0 of 1 23 of 75 2 of 2 3 of 4
Giga Chikadze 38 of 99 38% 30 of 89 8 of 10 0 of 0 38 of 99 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Calvin Kattar 25 of 87 28% 22 of 78 3 of 9 0 of 0 25 of 87 0 of 0 0 of 0
Giga Chikadze 22 of 67 32% 18 of 61 1 of 2 3 of 4 22 of 67 0 of 0 0 of 0
4 Calvin Kattar 36 of 102 35% 32 of 94 3 of 7 1 of 1 36 of 102 0 of 0 0 of 0
Giga Chikadze 28 of 70 40% 20 of 57 6 of 11 2 of 2 27 of 67 1 of 3 0 of 0
5 Calvin Kattar 51 of 125 40% 45 of 115 5 of 9 1 of 1 48 of 121 0 of 0 3 of 4
Giga Chikadze 32 of 92 34% 22 of 76 10 of 16 0 of 0 32 of 92 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Calvin Kattar vs. Giga Chikadze

Round 1
The main event kicks off, with referee Keith Peterson having banished all vestiges of nonsense from the premises by means of ancient, arcane and forbidden magic. The first strike of the fight is a right outside leg kick by Chikadze. He lands another, then a front kick to the chin. Kattar is coming forward, switching stances and throwing jabs from both sides. Chikadze is backpedaling and using lateral movement to avoid being backed into the fence. Chikadze lands a low kick, followed by a kick to the body. Kattar times the next one and explodes forward for a huge takedown. Kattar lands in half guard. Two minutes gone in the round, and Kattar is heavy on top, denying a hip escape. Kattar looking to pass to side control, but can’t. Chikadze stuffs him back to a deep half guard. Kattar briefly contemplates isolating the far arm, but Chikadze is active with his hips and Kattar is forced to hold him down. Chikadze grabs a guillotine, but Kattar hops to the opposite side. Chikadze sweeps to top, but Kattar has an arm-triangle from the bottom and moves to the back. Kattar is working with a body triangle from the back, throwing punches as the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 2
Chikadze lands a solid body kick. Kattar comes into punching range and Chikadze lands a pair of hooks to the body, followed by a left kick. Kattar counters a body kick with a sharp left hand. Kattar is still coming forward relentlessly, switching stances frequently, and Chikadze is having trouble adjusting, even as he lands. Kattar lands a hard right hook that hurts Chikadze. Kattar tries dropping for a single leg, but Chikadze evades it easily. Kattar lands a two-punch combination, followed by a step-in elbow. Chikadze retreats, and Kattar keeps the pressure on. Under a minute left, and “The Boston Finisher” has all the momentum. Chikadze lands a pair of punches, and Kattar responds with a spinning back elbow that lands flush. Kattar lands a takedown at the 10-second clapper and nails Chikadze with a couple of punches before he can stand. The horn sounds.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 3
Kattar continues to come forward, pressuring Chikadze, and lands a one-two. Kattar is in control, and Chikadze is starting to look tired, discouraged or both. Chikadze lands an outside calf kick, then another. Kattar lands a right cross, and Chikadze whiffs on a counter. Kattar drops for a single-leg and chases Chikadze all the way across the Octagon with it, where the Georgian uses a fence grab to steady himself, lets it go quickly, but not before it succeeds in foiling the takedown. Under two minutes left and they’re standing in the center of the cage again. Kattar’s jab is busting Chikadze up. Chikadze lands a pair of hard punches, but stumbles afterward, off-balance or just fatigued. Kattar comes forward with 30 seconds left and throws a one-two and a body kick. Chikadze catches Kattar with a flush right and takes another back elbow for his trouble, right before the horn.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 4
The main event rounds open up with both men’s face showing wear, but Chikadze’s more so. Kattar walks him down and lands a jab. And another. Chikadze denies a takedown attempt against the cage. Kattar’s jab is once again right in Chikadze’s face as the Bostonian moves forward. Kattar throws another step-in elbow. Chikadze throws a body kick, but Kattar punishes him with a three-punch combo. Halfway through the round, Kattar catches a kick and marches forward, throwing punches while holding the leg. Chikadze lands a solid straight left, but the volume advantage is definitely with Kattar. They land simultaneous jabs. Kattar has busted the right eye of Chikadze badly, cuts above as well as below. The horn sounds on another easy Kattar round.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar

Round 5
The final round begins as the other four did, with Kattar marching forward and cutting off the cage, but Chikadze explodes forward and tags him with a flurry of punches. Kattar keeps coming, though, and lands his own relentless volley of jabs. Chikadze lands a body kick, but Kattar is just overwhelming him. Kattar lands a high kick of his own. Chikadze comes forward, and Kattar counters with elbow strikes from both sides, then throws a kick up the middle. The round hits its halfway point, and Chikadze is still doing his best to find the finish he clearly knows he needs, but Kattar is far fresher and answering everything with two or more strikes to one. Kattar begins looking for bigger single shots on the flagging Chikadze, and lands a couple, leaving the Georgian stumbling backward. Kattar lands another spinning back elbow. Chikadze throws a kick up the middle. Under 30 seconds left and both men are still looking for the knockout. Kattar drops Chikadze with an elbow strike with under 10 seconds left, and referee Peterson looks on closely as he follows up with punches, but the round expires. Complete bell-to-bell performance by Calvin Kattar.

Sherdog Scores
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Kattar (50-45 Kattar)
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Kattar (50-45 Kattar)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Kattar (50-45 Kattar)

The Official Result
Calvin Kattar def. Giga Chikadze via Unanimous Decision (50-45, 50-45, 50-44)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jan 13, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Angelo picks Chikadze as the safe pick, citing his phenomenal striking, kicks, and range management. He notes Kattar is a live underdog with excellent boxing and a wrestling background that could pose problems if he pressures. He mentions possibly sprinkling a bet on Kattar.

May sprinkle a bet on Kattar as underdog.
"geek is the pick but that's a safe pick calvin qatar is very live here"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Jan 10, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Big Brady admits he has been a Giga Chikadze hater but acknowledges Giga's improvements, especially his cardio in the Omar Morales fight. He notes Giga has never seen the fourth or fifth round and has slowed down in the past, while Calvin Kattar has a steel chin and absorbs strikes. Brady expects Giga to win the first three rounds and take a decision, but is hesitant due to the five-round distance and Kattar's durability. He does not like the moneyline at -233 and would not bet it.

"I'm going to say giga chicago does win this fight i'm going to say he does win a decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Jan 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Cody picks Giga Chikadze, emphasizing his clean kickboxing and ability to dictate range with kicks. He notes Kattar struggles against longer opponents and that Giga's cardio looked solid in recent fights. He worries about Giga's takedown defense but doubts Kattar will wrestle. He suggests betting Kattar live after the second or third round if he survives the early onslaught.

Consider hedging on Kattar after round 2 or 3 if he survives
"as far as striker versus striker goes gotta go with the better striker better striker is giga just don't love the price tag"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jan 13, 2022 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze to win and be the first to finish Calvin Kattar via strikes. He argues that Kattar is a one-dimensional boxer with a negative strike differential, and that Giga's diverse striking—especially body kicks and head kicks—will be too much. He notes Giga has improved his cardio and grappling, citing his anaconda attempt on Barboza and brown belt in jiu-jitsu. Levi acknowledges Kattar's toughness and right hand but believes Giga's precision and power will prevail. He placed 5 units on Giga at -215.

5 units at -215
"I think giga chikazi is going to be the first man in mma history to finish calvin kater via strikes and i think he's going to open a lot of eyes so yeah give me giga chikazi i put five …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jan 9, 2022 (6 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The host believes Giga Chikadze's kick-heavy game plan will be the key to victory, targeting Calvin Kattar's legs which have historically been a weakness. He notes that Kattar is the better technical boxer, but Chikadze's diverse kicking attacks (leg, body, head) and ability to switch targets will slow Kattar down. The host is confident Chikadze can implement this strategy effectively, though he acknowledges the fight could go the distance if Kattar absorbs the kicks and keeps moving forward. He ultimately picks Chikadze by decision, but also considers an inside-the-distance finish possible.

Decision prop at +325, over 2.5 rounds at -135 mentioned as possible bets.
"i'll go to kaze... i'm stuck between decision and inside the distance honestly... i'm gonna go chicago just staying methodical staying cerebral as well and just staying on the outside letting those leg kicks go"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Jan 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Paul leans toward Giga Chikadze as the better striker, noting that if the fight stays at kicking range, Kattar will get torn up. He acknowledges Kattar's boxing and pressure but believes Giga's kicks and range control are decisive. He mentions the line is close to accurate but doesn't love the -235 price. He suggests Kattar might have a path via wrestling, but considers it unlikely.

"if this fight takes place at kicking range uh you got to imagine that calvin kater is going to get torn up completely"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Jan 10, 2022 (5 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze to win by decision, citing Chikadze's superior kicking game and Kattar's well-known vulnerability to leg kicks, as exposed by Renato Moicano. He notes that Kattar is a slow starter who struggles with kicks, and coming off a year-long layoff after taking massive damage against Max Holloway, he expects Kattar to be even more hesitant early. Chikadze's activity (three fights in the past year) and improved takedown defense are also factors, as Kattar is unlikely to wrestle. However, he acknowledges Kattar is a good underdog and could pull off an upset if he survives the early kicking onslaught.

Kattar is a good underdog at nearly 2-to-1 odds; Chikadze is a 2-to-1 favorite. Prediction: Chikadze by decision (49-46).
"i'm gonna go with the gigachicken but don't be surprised if qatar gets the upset man"
WIN vs Edson Barboza
TKO (punches) R3 1:44 · UFC on ESPN: Barboza vs. Chikadze · Aug 28, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 0 33 of 95 34% 33 of 95 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Edson Barboza 2 60 of 117 51% 70 of 128 0 of 0 --- 2 0 0:41
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 0 10 of 26 38% 10 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Edson Barboza 0 17 of 43 39% 17 of 43 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Giga Chikadze 0 19 of 56 33% 19 of 56 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Edson Barboza 0 22 of 47 46% 22 of 47 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Giga Chikadze 0 4 of 13 30% 4 of 13 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Edson Barboza 2 21 of 27 77% 31 of 38 0 of 0 --- 2 0 0:41
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 33 of 95 34% 15 of 70 10 of 15 8 of 10 33 of 95 0 of 0 0 of 0
Edson Barboza 60 of 117 51% 31 of 80 16 of 22 13 of 15 56 of 113 0 of 0 4 of 4
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 10 of 26 38% 4 of 17 3 of 4 3 of 5 10 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
Edson Barboza 17 of 43 39% 6 of 27 5 of 8 6 of 8 17 of 43 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Giga Chikadze 19 of 56 33% 8 of 41 6 of 10 5 of 5 19 of 56 0 of 0 0 of 0
Edson Barboza 22 of 47 46% 10 of 33 6 of 8 6 of 6 22 of 47 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Giga Chikadze 4 of 13 30% 3 of 12 1 of 1 0 of 0 4 of 13 0 of 0 0 of 0
Edson Barboza 21 of 27 77% 15 of 20 5 of 6 1 of 1 17 of 23 0 of 0 4 of 4
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Edson Barboza vs. Giga Chikadze

Round 1
The moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived, with respect to those participating on the 29th season of TUF. Two powerful, flashy strikers with eerily similar striking stats toe the line when Barboza (22-9, 16-9 UFC) faces Chikadze (13-2, 6-0 UFC). For Barboza, he can cement his place as a contender at featherweight; for Chikadze, he can announce himself to the world as a legitimate top-tier 145er. Referee Jason Herzog is holding down the fort for this one, and gloves are not touched before they are traded heavily and in high intensity. The first strike of the match comes from Chikadze, who lands a leg kick. Barboza returns fire with his own kick, and the featherweights are coiled and ready to strike. Barboza starts to walk Chikadze down, backing him up into the fence, and he is forced to try to check a quick leg kick. Barboza checks a body kick with a high knee, but an inside chopping kick lands. When Barboza fires off a leg kick, it gets checked as well. Chikadze goes high with a kick that brushes past Barboza’s head, and the Brazilian looks surprised as it zooms at him. Chikadze leaps in the air with a check flying knee, and Barboza just sees it coming in time to avoid it. When Barboza has a calf kick checked, he fires off another that does not get blocked. Barboza looks to feint his way in and he blocks a high kick and checks a body kick with his quick reflexes. Barboza wings an overhand left, and Chikadze is barely able to get out of the way lest it lop his head off. Chikadze spins with a kick to the body, and Barboza marches through it and lands a few punches. Barboza trips Chikadze on the way when Chikadze tries to press the action, and he stands back defiantly as Chikadze aims a flying knee. When Barboza connects with a leg kick, Chikadze points at his leg and then fires off two high kicks. Chikadze drills the body with a kick, and he might have Barboza smarting as Barboza chomps down on his mouthpiece and throws winging punches. Chikadze strides after him confidently, landing a few and evading the counters. Chikadze rips the body with a kick, and he targets the liver and points at Barboza. A high kick and an axe kick attempt from the Georgian conclude the kick-heavy round.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
The featherweights trade calf kicks initially, and Barboza is the one to try to throw hands as he swings a right hand. He times a Chikadze flying knee to kick him up the body, and he stands tall to score when Chikadze lands. Chikadze circles around the outer edge of the fence to chop at the Brazilian with kicks, and Barboza comes up short when trying to give chase. Chikadze connects with a left hand and a liver kick, and Barboza gives chase as he absorbs a stunning right hand. Barboza shakes it off and keeps pressuring Chikadze, where he lands a trio of punches on the way in. Chikadze lets loose a high kick and a liver kick in rapid succession, and the kick to the side keeps finding its home. Barboza scores a calf kick that makes the Georgian changes stances, and Chikadze whips up a high kick with his lead leg. Barboza rips the body with a right hand, and he checks the vaunted “Giga kick” with a high knee block. The Brazilian continues his assault on the body with big hooks and kicks, and Chikadze backs off right into an overhand right. Barboza plods forward as Chikadze appears to be slowing to a degree, allowing him to cut Chikadze off and set up strikes. Barboza nails the lead leg with a heavy kick, and Chikadze tries to return fire with an axe kick but he gets jabbed for his effort. Chikadze gets off a pair of punches as Barboza walks him down like a Brazilian Terminator, and Barboza keeps on drilling punches to the body. Chikadze spams a few axe kicks that hit nothing but his foe’s guard, and Barboza stabs his toes to the midsection. Barboza sweeps the leg, and Chikadze comes back at him with a single leg kick before the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Barboza
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Barboza
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Barboza

Round 3
Barboza takes the center of the cage and doubles up on a jab, and Chikadze is ready to fire back but misses the mark when Barboza ducks. Barboza sticks out a few more jabs as Chikadze backs away, and the Georgian scores a kick to the knee when Barboza tries to come at him. Chikadze blasts Barboza with a huge right hand, and Barboza is suddenly on the ropes as Chikadze walks him down to try to do damage. Barboza’s eye is busted up, and Chikadze charges with a barrage of punches. A few right hands knock Barboza back, and Barboza is in trouble and falls over to the ground. Chikadze looks to finish the job as he lands a few punches from on top, and Barboza holds on tight to clear the cobwebs. Barboza looks for a heel hook from his back as he is hurt badly, and when he sits up in it, the Georgian latches on to an anaconda choke out of nowhere. Barboza walks off the cage to break the grip of the choke, and he powers his way to his knees and then back to his feet.
Barboza is still on baby deer legs when he gets back up, and Chikadze takes note this and drops the hammer with a trio of punches that sends Barboza crashing back down to the canvas. Herzog has seen enough, sensing that Barboza may be out even if he is able to amble back to his feet.
“Ninja” successfully puts himself on the map with a wild performance over a perennial contender, and he thanks his opponent for the opportunity and the tough challenge. In his post-fight interview, Chikadze says he would be glad to fill in if a competitor in the featherweight title fight falls through, but if not, that there is a certain Hawaiian in his sights – Max Holloway. Should that striker’s delight come to fruition, we will be here for it, and we hope you are too.

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Edson Barboza R3 1:44 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Edson Barboza

Angelo picks Barboza, citing his leg kicks as the difference, veteran savvy, and more tools (jiu-jitsu, experience). He notes Chikadze is the future but hasn't faced leg kicks. He has Barboza in his DraftKings lineup at 8200 and calls the fight razor thin.

Angelo likes the less more on monkey knife fight.
"my pick is honestly edson barboza i think the leg kicks are the difference here"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Hesitant picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Edson Barboza

Cody picks Barboza but is hesitant, noting Barboza's age (35) and the risk that Giga could have a breakout performance. He values Barboza's experience and durability, having faced top competition, while Giga's resume is softer. Cody is worried about Giga's cardio after seeing him slow in round three against Jamall Emmers, and thinks Barboza's volume and wrestling advantage could be key if he survives the early danger. He already bet Barboza at -110 and says he won't have high investment.

already bet Edson Barboza at -110; won't have highest investment
"I already bet edson barbos so I got him at 110 minus 115 is fine"
JA
Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Jacob picks Chikadze, calling him an assassin who is on another level. He notes Chikadze is never in trouble and controls distance. He got Chikadze at +100 and has him in his lineup for five rounds, expecting a war. He also placed a half-unit bet on Chikadze in the third round.

Jacob got Chikadze at +100; he placed a half-unit bet on Chikadze in the third round.
"i actually got giga for plus 100 when i saw plus 100"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 27, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Edson Barboza

Lock leans slightly to Barboza, citing his volume and pace advantage over Giga. He believes Barboza's durability at 145 has held up and that Giga's cardio issues will be exposed in a five-round fight. Lock expects Barboza to get a finish in the later rounds, specifically liking the under 4.5 rounds and Barboza by KO at +270. He notes Giga's power is dangerous early but thinks Barboza's experience and activity will be the difference.

under 4.5 rounds -130, Barboza by KO +270, Barboza round 3 +1100, round 4 +1450, round 5 +2075
"I ever so slightly lean on the barboza side here i think that his volume is ultimately going to catch up to giga and i think that giga will start to slow down the later that this fight goes"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 25, 2021 (3 days before fight)
Edson Barboza

Paul picks Barboza, citing Barboza's higher striking volume and Giga's cardio issues seen in the Emmers fight. He notes Barboza's wrestling advantage and thinks if Barboza gets through the first two rounds, he'll be even stronger. Paul is scared away from Giga by his third-round fade against Emmers. He also mentions the line moving toward Barboza but remains confident.

"if edson gets out of the first two rounds in this fight i like him even more so i'm in on edson barbosa"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 22, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Edson Barboza

The Guru picks Edson Barboza over Giga Chikadze, citing Barboza's superior striking, experience in main events, and proven cardio at featherweight. He notes that Chikadze has close split decisions against Jamall Emmers and Brandon Davis, which are red flags. The Guru expects Barboza to chop Chikadze's legs with calf kicks and win a decision, possibly 4 rounds to 1. He also mentions Barboza's takedown option as a potential factor.

Barboza by decision, calf kicks to be a factor
"i think edson barboza is a way better striker way more experience under the big lights he's been in main events before"
WIN vs Cub Swanson
TKO (body kick and punches) R1 1:03 · UFC on ESPN: Reyes vs. Prochazka · May 01, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 1 12 of 18 66% 12 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Cub Swanson 0 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 1 12 of 18 66% 12 of 18 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
Cub Swanson 0 4 of 6 66% 4 of 6 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 12 of 18 66% 9 of 14 2 of 3 1 of 1 7 of 11 0 of 0 5 of 7
Cub Swanson 4 of 6 66% 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 5 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 12 of 18 66% 9 of 14 2 of 3 1 of 1 7 of 11 0 of 0 5 of 7
Cub Swanson 4 of 6 66% 1 of 1 0 of 0 3 of 5 4 of 6 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Giga Chikadze vs. Cub Swanson

Round 1
Our co-main event comes in the form of a striker’s delight at featherweight between the old guard of Swanson (27-11, 12-7 UFC) against the relatively young gun in Chikadze (12-2, 5-0 UFC). Whether this is a passing of the torch or a reminder that there is still something left in the tank, referee Jason Herzog will oversee the affair. There is no touch of gloves, as Chikadze begins his fight with a few kicks. Swanson looks to close the distance early, and he walks through a few kicks to reach out with a big overhand right. The Georgia circles away on the outside, and he gets off a right hand that makes Swanson take a few steps back.
The kickboxer slings a high kick and sneaks out a left hand, and he releases a thunderous body kick he titles his “Giga Kick” that slams square into Swanson’s liver. The longtime vet’s typically stoic expression contorts in pain as he backs away and falls to his knees. Swanson looks to reach out for any sort of desperation shot or leg grab, but Chikadze slips his leg out and starts pounding away.
It does not take more than a few punches for Herzog to call the fight off, and Georgian fighters have now stolen the night by winning across the board. This is our first official finish of the night – the Markos fight was a disqualification that ended by a foul – and the first time Swanson has been knocked out since Jose Aldo’s fateful double flying knee in 2009.

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Cub Swanson R1 1:03 via TKO (Body Kick and Punches)
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Big Brady picks Giga Chikadze to win a close decision, but he is hesitant and hates the line. He acknowledges Chikadze's improvements, especially in takedown defense and striking output, as seen in the Morales fight. However, he notes that Swanson is durable and on a roll, and that Chikadze has been taken down in the past. Brady thinks the line should be closer and that Swanson could be live if he wrestles more, but he ultimately goes with Chikadze's flashier strikes.

"i'm going to take ciacatse to win by a close decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)
Cub Swanson

Cody sees Cub Swanson as a live underdog with many variables in his favor: savvy veteran experience, ground game advantage, and a history of performing well as an underdog. He notes that Swanson has a BJJ black belt and wrestling advantage, and that Giga has not faced a grappler who actually uses their ground game. However, he is concerned that Giga is tall for the division and a tricky striker, and that Swanson needs to use his wrestling to win. He labels this a 'dogger pass' situation and mentions DraftKings still has +160 available.

dogger pass (betting recommendation)
"for our last show in the studio i'll label this one a dogger pass dogger pass situation"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Apr 29, 2021 (2 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze to win, emphasizing that Chikadze is a superior striker with better range and footwork. He believes Cub Swanson's style of swinging big hooks plays into Chikadze's straight shots down the middle. Levi also notes that Swanson's recent win over Pineda is overrated and that Chikadze's cardio held up in his last fight.

"i'm gonna go with giga to land the harder shots the more impactful shots and i think he's gonna announce himself as a contender at 145 pounds"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 30, 2021 (1 day before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The host picks Giga Chikadze by decision, citing his striking advantage and reach. He expects Giga to fight safe and outpoint Swanson, who may look for takedowns. He notes that Swanson is a veteran but believes Giga's kicking game will be too much.

Giga Chikadze by decision at +170
"I like giga here it's crazy that the line is continuing to move towards the cub swanson side"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert picked Apr 27, 2021 (4 days before fight)

Paul does not have a strong lean on this fight. He notes that Giga has been given favorable matchups and that Swanson has the ground game advantage, but he is not confident enough to make a pick. He mentions that the action is coming in on Swanson and that he can understand why, but he doesn't commit to a side.

"yeah not a great lean either"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2021 (6 days before fight)
Giga Chikadze

The MMA Guru picks Giga Chikadze over Cub Swanson, citing Chikadze's size advantage, reach, and improving MMA skills. He notes that Swanson is a natural bantamweight and took damage in his last fight against Daniel Pineda. He predicts Chikadze will chop at Swanson's legs and jab his way to a 30-27 unanimous decision.

"i'm gonna pick giga chickety to shop at those legs land good shots and just have cubs cub swanson limping around for the entire fight"
Irwin Rivera - Fight History
LOSS vs Andre Ewell
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Covington vs. Woodley · Sep 19, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Andre Ewell 0 123 of 299 41% 124 of 301 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:48
Irwin Rivera 0 81 of 176 46% 85 of 180 1 of 9 11% 0 1 0:18
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Andre Ewell 0 33 of 73 45% 34 of 75 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:48
Irwin Rivera 0 19 of 36 52% 21 of 38 0 of 4 0% 0 1 0:12
2 Andre Ewell 0 35 of 97 36% 35 of 97 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Irwin Rivera 0 21 of 61 34% 21 of 61 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Andre Ewell 0 55 of 129 42% 55 of 129 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Irwin Rivera 0 41 of 79 51% 43 of 81 1 of 2 50% 0 0 0:06
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Andre Ewell 123 of 299 41% 78 of 226 36 of 64 9 of 9 119 of 293 4 of 6 0 of 0
Irwin Rivera 81 of 176 46% 49 of 134 14 of 24 18 of 18 74 of 164 1 of 4 6 of 8
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Andre Ewell 33 of 73 45% 19 of 50 13 of 22 1 of 1 31 of 71 2 of 2 0 of 0
Irwin Rivera 19 of 36 52% 15 of 32 1 of 1 3 of 3 17 of 31 0 of 3 2 of 2
2 Andre Ewell 35 of 97 36% 24 of 76 9 of 19 2 of 2 35 of 95 0 of 2 0 of 0
Irwin Rivera 21 of 61 34% 9 of 42 3 of 10 9 of 9 21 of 61 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Andre Ewell 55 of 129 42% 35 of 100 14 of 23 6 of 6 53 of 127 2 of 2 0 of 0
Irwin Rivera 41 of 79 51% 25 of 60 10 of 13 6 of 6 36 of 72 1 of 1 4 of 6
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 17, 2020 (2 days before fight)
Andre Ewell

Big Brady picks Andre Ewell, noting his seven-inch reach advantage and improving takedown defense. He believes Rivera is tough but doesn't take opponents down enough to beat Ewell, and the fight will likely stay standing where Ewell throws more output. He already bet Ewell at -185 and expects a three-round decision.

Ewell by decision
"i have a bet on yo but i got him at minus 185"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 18, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Andre Ewell

The host favors Andre Ewell due to his significant reach advantage (7 inches) and superior striking speed and defense. He notes that Irwin Rivera struggles against longer strikers, as seen in his fight with Giga Chikadze, and that Ewell's quickness and ability to pivot off the cage will neutralize Rivera's pressure. He predicts a third-round TKO or decision, but leans toward a finish given Rivera's tendency to duck into shots.

Andre Ewell by TKO +375; under 2.5 rounds +225
"I like you will here his striking is just very very good it's very fun to watch and this speed is a killer."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2020 (8 days before fight)
Andre Ewell

The host picks Andre Ewell over Irwin Rivera, citing Ewell's length and range, and Rivera's lack of power to punish Ewell. He notes that Ewell has good performances against tough opponents and predicts a second-round TKO.

second round TKO
"I think Andre you're going to go out there keep the range well... I'll say second round TKO against Irwin Rivera."
WIN vs Ali AlQaisi
Decision (split) (29–28, 28–29, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Oleinik · Aug 08, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Irwin Rivera 0 36 of 73 49% 45 of 82 2 of 5 40% 0 0 1:02
Ali AlQaisi 0 44 of 105 41% 54 of 118 2 of 9 22% 1 0 1:55
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Irwin Rivera 0 6 of 15 40% 9 of 18 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:45
Ali AlQaisi 0 7 of 16 43% 17 of 28 1 of 3 33% 1 0 1:36
2 Irwin Rivera 0 13 of 29 44% 15 of 31 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:04
Ali AlQaisi 0 18 of 48 37% 18 of 48 0 of 3 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Irwin Rivera 0 17 of 29 58% 21 of 33 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:13
Ali AlQaisi 0 19 of 41 46% 19 of 42 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:19
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Irwin Rivera 36 of 73 49% 30 of 61 5 of 10 1 of 2 28 of 62 5 of 8 3 of 3
Ali AlQaisi 44 of 105 41% 28 of 86 7 of 9 9 of 10 36 of 96 8 of 9 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Irwin Rivera 6 of 15 40% 4 of 12 2 of 3 0 of 0 6 of 14 0 of 1 0 of 0
Ali AlQaisi 7 of 16 43% 5 of 14 0 of 0 2 of 2 6 of 14 1 of 2 0 of 0
2 Irwin Rivera 13 of 29 44% 12 of 24 1 of 4 0 of 1 7 of 22 3 of 4 3 of 3
Ali AlQaisi 18 of 48 37% 10 of 39 5 of 6 3 of 3 14 of 44 4 of 4 0 of 0
3 Irwin Rivera 17 of 29 58% 14 of 25 2 of 3 1 of 1 15 of 26 2 of 3 0 of 0
Ali AlQaisi 19 of 41 46% 13 of 33 2 of 3 4 of 5 16 of 38 3 of 3 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 5, 2020 (3 days before fight)
Ali AlQaisi

Big Brady picks AlQaisi as an underdog, believing his wrestling and takedowns will be the difference. He notes Rivera's poor takedown defense and lack of offense off his back. He predicts a decision win for AlQaisi.

"i do like al qazi to win this fight he is 29 years old he has five six eight and three he's five and oh in his last five fights"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 7, 2020 (1 day before fight)
Irwin Rivera

Daniel Levi picks Irwin Rivera to win by decision. He notes that Rivera is the better striker with dynamic ability, including a liver kick and flying knees, and that AlQaisi is stiff on the feet. Levi acknowledges that AlQaisi has a path to victory with wrestling and guillotine attempts, but believes Rivera's takedown defense and scrambling have improved. He also mentions that Rivera trains with the Burns brothers in Florida.

"i'll go with erwin rivera to win a decision"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean picked Aug 4, 2020 (4 days before fight)
Irwin Rivera

Rivera trains at Sanford MMA with high-level partners and has fought legitimate competition, while AlQaisi is a UFC debutant with questionable opposition. Rivera's takedown defense improved after the first round against Sabatello, and he should be able to avoid submissions. The under 2.5 rounds at +160 is appealing due to both fighters' finishing rates.

under 2.5 rounds +160
"I'm going to take our winter Irwin Rivera to win this fight by second round tko"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 3, 2020 (5 days before fight)
Ali AlQaisi

The MMA Guru picks Ali AlQaisi because he believes AlQaisi has faced tougher competition to build his record compared to Rivera. He notes that AlQaisi's first two losses were early in his career and he has since gone 9-1, while Rivera's losses are more spaced out. He worries about AlQaisi coming in on short notice and his gas tank, but still expects him to get the job done by decision.

"i am going to be picking ali quesay in this fight because he's the number eight frank's bantamweight in the middle east right now"
LOSS vs Giga Chikadze
Decision (unanimous) (30–26, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Overeem vs. Harris · May 16, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Giga Chikadze 1 61 of 135 45% 61 of 135 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:06
Irwin Rivera 0 34 of 94 36% 35 of 95 0 of 4 0% 0 0 0:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Giga Chikadze 0 17 of 39 43% 17 of 39 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Irwin Rivera 0 11 of 33 33% 11 of 33 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
2 Giga Chikadze 0 25 of 49 51% 25 of 49 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Irwin Rivera 0 10 of 26 38% 10 of 26 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
3 Giga Chikadze 1 19 of 47 40% 19 of 47 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:06
Irwin Rivera 0 13 of 35 37% 14 of 36 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:03
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Giga Chikadze 61 of 135 45% 33 of 100 13 of 16 15 of 19 55 of 122 2 of 4 4 of 9
Irwin Rivera 34 of 94 36% 20 of 71 10 of 18 4 of 5 34 of 94 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Giga Chikadze 17 of 39 43% 4 of 22 5 of 6 8 of 11 17 of 38 0 of 1 0 of 0
Irwin Rivera 11 of 33 33% 8 of 27 2 of 5 1 of 1 11 of 33 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Giga Chikadze 25 of 49 51% 16 of 39 5 of 6 4 of 4 24 of 48 1 of 1 0 of 0
Irwin Rivera 10 of 26 38% 6 of 18 3 of 6 1 of 2 10 of 26 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Giga Chikadze 19 of 47 40% 13 of 39 3 of 4 3 of 4 14 of 36 1 of 2 4 of 9
Irwin Rivera 13 of 35 37% 6 of 26 5 of 7 2 of 2 13 of 35 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Giga Chikadze vs. Irwin Rivera

Round 1
Over at featherweight, Georgia’s Chikadze (9-2, 2-0 UFC) will take on incredibly short-notice replacement and former Titan FC champ Rivera (9-4, 0-0 UFC). The nonsense level in the cage just plummeted to zero, as referee Keith Peterson is third man in the cage. There is no touch of gloves, as Rivera is more interested in flying in the air with a superman punch to start things out. Chikadze evades it and racks a heavy leg kick that nearly knocks the leg out from his opponent. Chikadze misses with a high kick, forcing Rivera to clinch up and try to throw a left hand over the top, but there is nothing doing. As he takes a leg kick on the way in, Rivera is trying to swarm his way in. Chikadze tries to stop his advancement with a leg kick, and “The Beast” jumps over it to land a left hand and surprise his opponent. Both men connect with front kicks, and Chikadze sticks him with a jab as Rivera races in to try to close the distance. Rivera jumps forward with a knee, Chikadze blocks it, and it is a curious question as to how long Rivera can keep up this pace. Rivera runs at his opponent with such recklessness that when Chikadze evades him, Rivera stumbles across the cage and into the fence. Chikadze goes after another leg kick, and Rivera once more hops over it. A stiff body kick from Chikadze lands, and Rivera winces, recovers, and throws his own. Rivera lands a jab coming in, but Chikadze connects with a knee as the Georgian fighter tries to close in now. The pace from Rivera has waned significantly, allowing Chikadze to throw a question mark kick and surprise Rivera. Rivera keeps charging in wildly, and Chikadze stays patient, tries to counter with a body kick or a knee, and gets out of the way. Chikadze whiffs on a big spinning wheel kick, and both men are throwing high-risk, high-reward, high-energy strikes that do not land effectively. The round concludes with Chikadze jumping in the air to fake a flying knee.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 2
Chikadze starts the round out with a high kick, and he gets caught with a superman punch that sends Chikadze falling back against the fence. Chikadze commits to a few more kicks, and Rivera keeps his foot on the gas by rushing in to combinations. Chikadze clips him up top, and Rivera takes it flush, shakes it off and shoots low for a takedown. Chikadze stuffs it and sneaks in a kick, while following that with a stiff uppercut. Rivera absorbs kick right to his face, and the nose of the newcomer has started to bleed. The damage is starting to mount on Rivera’s face, as Chikadze is teeing off on him from a distance while also timing Rivera’s blitzes on the way in. A few blistering leg kicks bust up the face of the newcomer, but Rivera is still firing back at him. When Rivera rushes in, he takes a knee, lands a left hand, and gets countered all in one rapid exchange. Chikadze whips a high kick with his left leg, and chains that into a side kick to the body that puts Rivera on one knee briefly. Getting loose, Chikadze starts scoring more kicks from the outside and working Rivera from a distance until the round ends. Rivera exhales deeply.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze

Round 3
The round opens with Chikadze blasting Rivera on the chin with a nasty knee, sending the new UFC combatant to the ground. Chikadze dives after him to do some damage on top, but Rivera shakes out the cobwebs, kicks off and miraculously returns to his feet. The same knee from Chikadze scores once again, and Rivera absorbs it while trying to swing with huge looping hooks. Chikadze tags him with one more during a similar exchange, and Rivera is not quite able to get in on his longer, lankier opponent, but it is not for a lack of trying. Chikadze stings him with a high kick, but Rivera partially blocks it and walks forward. A potentially fatiguing Rivera stops engaging for almost a minute, allowing Chikadze to practice and miss an axe kick in the process. The two continue to stare at one another from a distance, and Chikadze fires up a high kick that gets blocked, and body kick that lands with a thud. Rivera comes up short with a body kick, but he does manage to get in a leg kick. Chikadze throws one right back, and it nearly turns Rivera around but the debutant is not remotely concerned. Rivera is walking forward, and though his offense has waned, when he does throw, he is swinging with home-run shots. He takes another knee while trying to close distance, and doubles over while trying to turn away. Chikadze chases him down to try to punish him, but Rivera turtles up. With precious seconds ticking off the clock, Rivera leaps at him with wild punches but he cannot catch his retreating foe. A few short shots from Chikadze land, and Rivera dives down to pull guard and set up a Hail Mary heel hook. Time expires before he has anything secured, and the fight is over.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (30-27 Chikadze)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (30-27 Chikadze)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Chikadze (30-27 Chikadze)

The Official Result
Giga Chikadze def. Irwin Rivera via Unanimous Decision (30-26, 30-27, 30-27)
BI
Big Brady Expert picked May 15, 2020 (1 day before fight)

Big Brady does not give an official prediction for this fight because he has not watched film on Irwin Rivera. He notes that Chikadze has a significant height and reach advantage and likes what he has seen from Chikadze's striking, but cannot make a pick without more information. He says to check back tomorrow for a betting breakdown.

"I can't give you a prediction of my because I have not watched film on Rivera... but um just check back tomorrow and i will be doing a betting breakdown video"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 16, 2020 (fight day)
Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze via first-round knockout. He believes Chikadze will land his signature liver kick and finish Rivera. He notes that Rivera is taking the fight on short notice and will be outsized. He thinks Chikadze's dynamic kickboxing will be too much for Rivera.

first-round knockout via liver kick
"I think this is gonna be G gotcha Kazi is a first knockout winning the UFC and I think it's gonna be a via the [ __ ] kick"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 14, 2020 (2 days before fight)

The host picks Mike Davis, praising his technical striking and power. He is unimpressed with Giga Chikadze's recent performances and believes Davis will out-strike him and win a 30-27 decision. He notes Davis's toughness and ability to crack Chikadze with power shots.

Mike Davis by decision (30-27)
"I just think Mike Davis is gonna crack him up some power shots out strike him and get the job done Mike Davis is gonna get the job done by decision it's gonna be a brutal decision"
Expert Picks (3)
BI
Big Brady Expert picked May 15, 2020 (1 day before fight)
No clear pick

Big Brady does not give an official prediction for this fight because he has not watched film on Irwin Rivera. He notes that Chikadze has a significant height and reach advantage and likes what he has seen from Chikadze's striking, but cannot make a pick without more information. He says to check back tomorrow for a betting breakdown.

"I can't give you a prediction of my because I have not watched film on Rivera... but um just check back tomorrow and i will be doing a betting breakdown video"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked May 16, 2020 (fight day)
Giga Chikadze

Daniel Levi picks Giga Chikadze via first-round knockout. He believes Chikadze will land his signature liver kick and finish Rivera. He notes that Rivera is taking the fight on short notice and will be outsized. He thinks Chikadze's dynamic kickboxing will be too much for Rivera.

first-round knockout via liver kick
"I think this is gonna be G gotcha Kazi is a first knockout winning the UFC and I think it's gonna be a via the [ __ ] kick"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 14, 2020 (2 days before fight)
No clear pick

The host picks Mike Davis, praising his technical striking and power. He is unimpressed with Giga Chikadze's recent performances and believes Davis will out-strike him and win a 30-27 decision. He notes Davis's toughness and ability to crack Chikadze with power shots.

Mike Davis by decision (30-27)
"I just think Mike Davis is gonna crack him up some power shots out strike him and get the job done Mike Davis is gonna get the job done by decision it's gonna be a brutal decision"