UFC 241: Cormier vs. Miocic 2 · Aug 17, 2019 · Featherweight · Completed
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Age 33
Height 5' 9"
Reach 71.0"
Weight 145 lbs.
Stance Orthodox
Age 37
Height 5' 8"
Reach 71"
Weight 155 lbs.
Stance Southpaw
Career Averages - Sodiq Yusuff
5.27 SLpM
49.0% Str. Acc.
4.29 SApM
53.0% Str. Def.
0.36 TD Avg
23.0% TD Acc.
62.0% TD Def.
0.4 Sub. Avg
Career Averages - Gabriel Benítez
5.26 SLpM
41.0% Str. Acc.
4.49 SApM
63.0% Str. Def.
0.22 TD Avg
50.0% TD Acc.
55.0% TD Def.
0.9 Sub. Avg
Sodiq Yusuff - Fight History
LOSS vs Mairon Santos
Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Burns vs. Morales · May 17, 2025
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sodiq Yusuff 0 36 of 86 41% 60 of 115 1 of 3 33% 0 0 2:02
Mairon Santos 0 40 of 83 48% 71 of 114 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:57
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sodiq Yusuff 0 19 of 30 63% 19 of 30 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:42
Mairon Santos 0 9 of 27 33% 9 of 27 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
2 Sodiq Yusuff 0 10 of 26 38% 29 of 48 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:01
Mairon Santos 0 16 of 27 59% 26 of 37 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:35
3 Sodiq Yusuff 0 7 of 30 23% 12 of 37 1 of 1 100% 0 0 1:19
Mairon Santos 0 15 of 29 51% 36 of 50 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:19
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sodiq Yusuff 36 of 86 41% 9 of 44 9 of 19 18 of 23 35 of 84 1 of 2 0 of 0
Mairon Santos 40 of 83 48% 22 of 56 10 of 18 8 of 9 35 of 77 5 of 6 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sodiq Yusuff 19 of 30 63% 4 of 11 7 of 10 8 of 9 18 of 29 1 of 1 0 of 0
Mairon Santos 9 of 27 33% 4 of 18 2 of 5 3 of 4 8 of 26 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Sodiq Yusuff 10 of 26 38% 3 of 15 2 of 6 5 of 5 10 of 25 0 of 1 0 of 0
Mairon Santos 16 of 27 59% 11 of 21 4 of 5 1 of 1 12 of 23 4 of 4 0 of 0
3 Sodiq Yusuff 7 of 30 23% 2 of 18 0 of 3 5 of 9 7 of 30 0 of 0 0 of 0
Mairon Santos 15 of 29 51% 7 of 17 4 of 8 4 of 4 15 of 28 0 of 1 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Angelo picks Sodiq Yusuff as the underdog, but with hesitation. He notes that Yusuff is a fantastic striker with incredible speed and a wide variety of attacks, but is on a two-fight skid. He contrasts Santos's methodical approach with Diego Lopez's aggressive style that troubled Yusuff, suggesting that if Santos lets Yusuff settle in, Yusuff could win. However, he also acknowledges that Santos is good and could control the pace. Angelo's pick seems influenced by personal affinity for Yusuff's social media presence.

"I am actually going to pick Sadiq here. Going with the dog."
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Mairon Santos

Big Brady picks Mairon Santos, citing his power and durability. He notes Sodiq Yusuff's inactivity, injuries, and questionable chin. He expects a standing banger and predicts Santos wins by first-round knockout, though he is not fully confident.

Santos by KO, round 1; under on total rounds
"I am going to go with Santos. ... I'll take him to win this fight by first round knockout."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean pick date unknown
Mairon Santos

The host thinks the public is low on Santos due to a controversial decision win, but sees this as a winnable fight for him. He expects Santos to dictate the pace with high output and volume, which should muzzle Yusuff, who needs a knockout to win. He leans with Santos to win on the scorecards.

Santos by decision
"Expect Santos to dictate the pace here, throw a lot of output and volume and that should ultimately muzzle Yousef who I think needs a knockout to win this matchup."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Mairon Santos

The Guru picks Mairon Santos, calling him underrated and believing he should have won his last fight against Francis Marshall. He thinks Santos is talented and hungry, while Sodiq Yusuff is chinny and not a full-time fighter anymore. He predicts Santos will finish Yusuff by TKO, noting Yusuff gets wobbled easily.

Santos by TKO
"I'm going with Mron Santos over Sadiq Yousef."
LOSS vs Diego Lopes
TKO (punches) R1 1:29 · UFC 300: Pereira vs. Hill · Apr 13, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Diego Lopes 0 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Sodiq Yusuff 2 26 of 32 81% 29 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:34
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Diego Lopes 0 2 of 5 40% 2 of 5 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Sodiq Yusuff 2 26 of 32 81% 29 of 35 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:34
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Diego Lopes 2 of 5 40% 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 4 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 26 of 32 81% 21 of 27 2 of 2 3 of 3 3 of 4 5 of 7 18 of 21
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Diego Lopes 2 of 5 40% 1 of 1 0 of 0 1 of 4 2 of 5 0 of 0 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 26 of 32 81% 21 of 27 2 of 2 3 of 3 3 of 4 5 of 7 18 of 21
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Sodiq Yusuff vs. Diego Lopes
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Lopes (-135), Yusuff (+114)

Round 1
The hits keep right on coming, as well-schooled fist-fighter Yusuff (13-3, 6-2 UFC) would like to professionally break down the surging Lopes (23-6, 2-1 UFC) in front of a wild crowd at the T-Mobile Arena. The lion’s share of Yusuff’s wins have come via strikes, while Lopes is an equal opportunity destroyer. Referee Mark Smith will need to keep his head on a swivel when overseeing these featherweights, and it does not feature a glove touch. Yusuff reaches out with a long low kick, and when that misses, he tries again. Lopes meets him with one that is checked. The two fighters trade calf kicks and little else, until Lopes springs into action with a one-two and a checked low kick. Lopes unloads with an uppercut that knocks “Super Sodiq” off his feet, and Yusuff collapses down to the mat. Lopes gives chase, pounding on his man, and Yusuff fights back to his feet valiantly.
Lopes rushes after him and smashes him in the face with another uppercut, and Yusuff crashes to the ground, totally defeated. Lopes, his mullet waving majestically behind him, drums out a flattened Yusuff with punches to the side of the head, with a seemingly unending barrage of strikes that only concludes when Smith gets between them to call a halt to the one-sided bludgeoning.
This is a huge moment for the meteorically rising Lopes, who will likely be ranked come Monday.

The Official Result
Diego Lopes def. Sodiq Yusuff R1 1:29 via TKO (Punches)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Angelo picks Sodiq Yusuff as the underdog, believing he is the much better striker with good fight IQ to avoid grappling. He notes Lopes has dangerous BJJ but will struggle to get the fight to the ground. He also likes the over 2.5 rounds prop.

Over 2.5 rounds
"I am going to pick the underdog here in sadik YF but he is going to need to fight a perfect 15 minutes"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Cody fades Diego Lopes again, noting Lopes' wrestling isn't great and he stands tall, leaving himself open to be hit. He points out that Lopes has been taken down by Movsar Evloev and Gavin Tucker. Yusuff is a sharpshooter with good Jiu-Jitsu from Team Lloyd Irvin, and he has cardio and decent power. Cody believes Yusuff can use a point-fight style, staying at range and picking Lopes apart. He also mentions that Yusuff has takedown defense to keep the fight standing. Cody picks Yusuff as an underdog.

Fight goes the distance (+135) or over 1.5 rounds (-180) mentioned as alternatives
"I will go with Underdog number three technically two however we want to look at it that plus money on soq St I'm willing to try to fade Diego Lopez one time."
CO
Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Diego Lopes

Connor picks Lopes, arguing that his relentless chaos and willingness to keep trying different attacks will overwhelm Yusuff. He notes that Yusuff often starts strong but fades as opponents adjust, while Lopes just increases the intensity. Connor admits that Yusuff could win by controlling Lopes on the ground, but he believes Lopes' unpredictability and durability will carry him.

Odds: Lopes opened -169, now -138; Yusuff opened +132, now +124. Connor mentions the line movement.
"I think I am going to pick Diego Lopez. I think the best way to beat him is either to knock him out or finish him very quickly, which most fighters are incapable of doing."
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Daniel Vreeland picks Sodiq Yusuff, citing his superior boxing, output, and defensive skills. He believes Yusuff can outpoint Lopes and avoid submissions, noting that Lopes is opportunistic but limited. Vreeland acknowledges Lopes' finishing ability but trusts Yusuff's experience and durability.

"I truly believe that Sodiq can outpoint this guy"
LU
Lucrative James Expert pick date unknown

Lucrative James does not make a pick for this fight. He calls it a banger and says he is very interested in it, but does not give a prediction. He notes that most people won't know about it unless they are hardcore fans, and that it will be on the prelims.

"I'm very very interested in that fight and that fight is going to be on the prelims so to have a fight like that on the prelims it just shows you what Dana has in store for this card"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Yusuff has better experience and a higher level striking game. His takedown defense and ability to keep the fight upright will force Lopes to make mistakes on the feet, allowing Yusuff to counter and find a knockout in round two.

knockout in round two
"give me Yousef by knockout in round two"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Paul sides with Cody, noting that Yusuff should have advantages at range. He acknowledges a red flag: Edson Barboza, not known for wrestling, took Yusuff down three times, so Lopes could get the fight to the ground. However, Paul believes Yusuff has enough takedown defense and ground skills to survive. He thinks the fight could go to decision and mentions the decision prop at +250. Paul expects Yusuff to keep the fight upright and win a decision.

Decision prop (+250) mentioned
"I'm going to side with you I think that you know sodi will have just enough takedown defense to keep this one upright and at range."
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Diego Lopes

The MMA Guru picks Diego Lopes to win by rear-naked choke, despite initially considering Sodiq Yusuff. He notes Yusuff struggled against Alex Caceres and that Lopes thrives under pressure. He believes Lopes's finishing ability and scrambling will be too much for Yusuff, who may be hesitant after a five-round war.

rear-naked choke
"I'm going with Diego Lopez rear naked choke."
ZA
Zane Simon Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Zane picks Yusuff, believing his wrestling and clinch control will neutralize Lopes' chaotic style. He notes that Yusuff is a strong wrestler and physically powerful, and Lopes' car-crash approach often leads to him being controlled. Zane acknowledges that Lopes could catch Yusuff with a submission or knockout, but he trusts Yusuff's consistency and defensive grappling.

Odds: Lopes opened -169, now -138; Yusuff opened +132, now +124. Zane mentions the line movement.
"I think I'm going to take use of here. It's only been like stylistically. It doesn't feel like it should be that difficult for him to just sort of neuter Lopez."
LOSS vs Edson Barboza
Decision (unanimous) (49–46, 48–46, 48–46) R5 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Yusuff vs. Barboza · Oct 14, 2023
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Edson Barboza 1 178 of 351 50% 206 of 397 1 of 2 50% 0 0 3:56
Sodiq Yusuff 1 164 of 324 50% 178 of 347 3 of 4 75% 0 0 3:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Edson Barboza 1 42 of 80 52% 55 of 103 1 of 1 100% 0 0 3:15
Sodiq Yusuff 0 13 of 25 52% 14 of 26 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Edson Barboza 0 42 of 79 53% 43 of 80 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:29
Sodiq Yusuff 0 31 of 65 47% 33 of 67 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Edson Barboza 0 29 of 58 50% 29 of 59 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Sodiq Yusuff 1 32 of 68 47% 42 of 86 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:04
4 Edson Barboza 0 35 of 79 44% 39 of 84 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:12
Sodiq Yusuff 0 47 of 90 52% 48 of 91 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:22
5 Edson Barboza 0 30 of 55 54% 40 of 71 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Sodiq Yusuff 0 41 of 76 53% 41 of 77 3 of 4 75% 0 0 1:38
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Edson Barboza 178 of 351 50% 126 of 284 14 of 20 38 of 47 148 of 311 15 of 18 15 of 22
Sodiq Yusuff 164 of 324 50% 71 of 204 89 of 112 4 of 8 134 of 290 25 of 27 5 of 7
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Edson Barboza 42 of 80 52% 39 of 77 3 of 3 0 of 0 23 of 54 4 of 4 15 of 22
Sodiq Yusuff 13 of 25 52% 8 of 19 5 of 6 0 of 0 12 of 24 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Edson Barboza 42 of 79 53% 24 of 56 3 of 6 15 of 17 34 of 69 8 of 10 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 31 of 65 47% 7 of 31 23 of 31 1 of 3 25 of 57 6 of 8 0 of 0
3 Edson Barboza 29 of 58 50% 17 of 42 5 of 7 7 of 9 29 of 58 0 of 0 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 32 of 68 47% 14 of 44 16 of 20 2 of 4 27 of 61 0 of 0 5 of 7
4 Edson Barboza 35 of 79 44% 24 of 64 1 of 2 10 of 13 35 of 78 0 of 1 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 47 of 90 52% 24 of 63 22 of 26 1 of 1 42 of 85 5 of 5 0 of 0
5 Edson Barboza 30 of 55 54% 22 of 45 2 of 2 6 of 8 27 of 52 3 of 3 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 41 of 76 53% 18 of 47 23 of 29 0 of 0 28 of 63 13 of 13 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Angelo sees this as a razor-thin striking match where youth vs experience is the key factor. He believes Sodiq's speed and youth will give him a slight edge over the 37-year-old Barboza, who is still technical but may have slowed. He notes that if it were a well-rounded MMA fight he'd lean experience, but as a striking match he favors the younger fighter. He plans to just watch rather than bet, calling it even money.

"I'm going to go with sadique YF to be just a little faster just a hair ahead and I think that's going to matter"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Big Brady picks Sodiq Yusuff to win by KO in the third round. He notes that Edson Barboza is 37 years old and cutting to featherweight, which is taxing. He worries about Barboza's durability and cardio in a five-round fight, while Yusuff is younger and has power. He expects Yusuff to finish late as Barboza fades.

Yusuff by KO in round 3
"I think it's a late finish here for Yousef third fourth or fifth I'm going to say Yousef does officially knock him out I'll say third round there"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Edson Barboza

Cody picks Barboza, emphasizing his consistent high-level competition and ability to still perform at an elite level. He highlights Barboza's leg kicks, left hook, and durability, noting that he has never slowed down despite many wars. Cody questions Yusuff's durability and wrestling ability to get Barboza down, and believes Barboza's experience and power will prevail.

"I gotta go dogger pass in this Main Event"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

The host picks Sodiq Yusuff but is hesitant due to the long layoff and herniated disc issues. He notes Yusuff's power and patience, expecting him to land a big shot as Barboza slows down with age. However, he dislikes the minus 170-180 price and prefers to pass on betting. He predicts Yusuff by knockout.

"give me Yousef and Yousef by knockout"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Edson Barboza

Paul picks Barboza as the underdog, citing his elite striking, durability, and experience against top competition. He notes Barboza's ability to land big shots and his consistent performance despite age. Paul is concerned about Yusuff's durability and lack of high-level wins, and believes Barboza's volume and power will be too much.

Bet Edson Barboza at +142
"I just bet Edson Barboza while you were talking cuz I was just like I had a one uh one plus 142"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Lean pick date unknown
Edson Barboza

The MMA Guru leans towards Edson Barboza over Sodiq Yusuff, calling it a close 50/50 fight. He cites Barboza's momentum, size advantage (4-inch reach, taller), and experience in main events. He questions Yusuff's chin, noting he got wobbled by Arnold Allen, and his long layoff due to spinal surgery. He also thinks Yusuff's win over Alex Caceres was mostly low kicks, which won't work against Barboza. However, he expresses frustration that underdogs often win in nonsensical ways, showing low confidence.

"I'll go Ed some baroza over sadique yusf just think Edson babos has got a bit of momentum right now"
WIN vs Don Shainis
Submission (guillotine choke) R1 0:30 · UFC Fight Night: Dern vs. Yan · Oct 01, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sodiq Yusuff 0 9 of 9 100% 9 of 9 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:02
Don Shainis 0 3 of 3 100% 9 of 9 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:11
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sodiq Yusuff 0 9 of 9 100% 9 of 9 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:02
Don Shainis 0 3 of 3 100% 9 of 9 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:11
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sodiq Yusuff 9 of 9 100% 1 of 1 8 of 8 0 of 0 2 of 2 7 of 7 0 of 0
Don Shainis 3 of 3 100% 0 of 0 3 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sodiq Yusuff 9 of 9 100% 1 of 1 8 of 8 0 of 0 2 of 2 7 of 7 0 of 0
Don Shainis 3 of 3 100% 0 of 0 3 of 3 0 of 0 1 of 1 2 of 2 0 of 0
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Cody picks Sodiq Yusuff to win, but is not fully sold on him due to his tendency to fight to his opponent's level and get hit. He acknowledges Shainis has a puncher's chance but believes Yusuff's talent and experience will prevail. He prefers the under (fight doesn't go to decision) as a bet, noting that Shainis usually finishes or gets finished.

Fight doesn't go to decision
"I'm not fully sold on him like he he he gets hit in some spots he gets walled in some spots he fights to his opponent's level sometimes"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Paul picks the under (fight doesn't go to decision) rather than a side, believing that either Yusuff finishes Shainis or Shainis catches Yusuff early. He notes that Shainis has power and Yusuff has been wobbled before, but Yusuff is the more talented fighter. He sees value in the 'fight doesn't go to decision' prop at -200 and expects it to move to -300. He also mentions parlaying this prop with other picks.

Fight doesn't go to decision -200; parlay with Tabitha Richie and Mike Davis
"I'm gonna go with the under I think that one of these guys are getting clipped and getting put down"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

The MMA Guru is very confident in Sodiq Yusuff, calling the fight a mismatch. He notes that Yusuff has fought and beaten high-level competition, while Don Shainis's opponents have been low-level. He believes Yusuff can win however he wants, whether by striking or wrestling. He acknowledges the short-notice factor but thinks Yusuff's skills are far superior. He does not bet due to the heavy favorite price.

"I think Sodiq Yusuff is gonna murder him, like whatever way he wants."
WIN vs Alex Caceres
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Santos vs. Ankalaev · Mar 12, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sodiq Yusuff 0 64 of 123 52% 74 of 133 1 of 3 33% 0 0 2:42
Alex Caceres 0 66 of 138 47% 71 of 143 1 of 3 33% 0 0 0:21
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sodiq Yusuff 0 8 of 25 32% 17 of 34 1 of 3 33% 0 0 2:24
Alex Caceres 0 13 of 23 56% 18 of 28 1 of 1 100% 0 0 0:21
2 Sodiq Yusuff 0 29 of 48 60% 29 of 48 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Alex Caceres 0 25 of 53 47% 25 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Sodiq Yusuff 0 27 of 50 54% 28 of 51 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:18
Alex Caceres 0 28 of 62 45% 28 of 62 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sodiq Yusuff 64 of 123 52% 18 of 70 12 of 16 34 of 37 59 of 117 5 of 6 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 66 of 138 47% 43 of 107 14 of 20 9 of 11 64 of 133 2 of 5 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sodiq Yusuff 8 of 25 32% 1 of 17 4 of 5 3 of 3 7 of 24 1 of 1 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 13 of 23 56% 8 of 18 2 of 2 3 of 3 13 of 23 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Sodiq Yusuff 29 of 48 60% 5 of 22 5 of 6 19 of 20 27 of 46 2 of 2 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 25 of 53 47% 18 of 42 4 of 6 3 of 5 25 of 51 0 of 2 0 of 0
3 Sodiq Yusuff 27 of 50 54% 12 of 31 3 of 5 12 of 14 25 of 47 2 of 3 0 of 0
Alex Caceres 28 of 62 45% 17 of 47 8 of 12 3 of 3 26 of 59 2 of 3 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Angelo picks Sodiq Yusuff because he is too powerful and fast on the feet for Alex Caceres. He notes that Caceres averages less than one takedown per fight and likely won't use his wrestling, so he will lose the striking exchanges. However, he suggests Caceres might be worth a plus 3.5 bet (buying a round on scorecards) as he could have moments of success.

Suggests Alex Caceres +3.5 points bet (available at BetOnline)
"i do think yusuf is just too powerful too fast on the feet and i think alex you know he averages less than one takedown per fight and i just don't see him using his wrestling to get this to …"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Big Brady picks Sodiq Yusuff to win by decision. He notes Yusuff has more power and will land the harder shots, while Caceres is a volume striker with a black belt in BJJ but rarely goes for takedowns. He thinks the smaller cage favors Yusuff's pressure. He expects a competitive fight but Yusuff's power will be the difference, possibly hurting or dropping Caceres, but ultimately winning a decision.

"i'm gonna say yusuf does win this fight i'm gonna say yusuf does win this fight by decision"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Lean pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Cody leans Yusuff but is not confident. He notes Caceres' submission threat but believes Yusuff's power and pressure will be too much. He worries about Caceres' grappling but thinks Yusuff's takedown defense and ability to get up will suffice.

"i kind of end up in the use of corner but this one just feels like it's going to potentially be the apple pie shooter"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Daniel Levi picks Sodiq Yusuff, noting that he has been on Yusuff every fight except the Arnold Allen one. He believes Yusuff will walk Caceres down and use his Nigerian power and underrated ground game. Levi mentions that he has a bet on Yusuff at minus 220. He acknowledges Caceres's veteran tricks but thinks Yusuff's physicality and pressure will be too much.

i do have a bet on so deek at minus 220
"i do have a bet on so deek at minus 220"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Yusuff is a powerful striker returning from a loss to Arnold Allen. He has knockout power and good boxing, but cardio can be a concern if he grapples heavily. Caceres is on a five-fight win streak but against lesser competition, and was nearly finished by Seungwoo Choi. Yusuff is expected to land a big shot and knock out Caceres, likely in the first round.

KO line at plus money is mentioned as a potential play; predicted first-round KO.
"I think Yusuff is going to march him down, stalk him and land those big shots and I think eventually he's going to land a beautiful counter to put Alex Caceres' lights out."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Paul leans Yusuff but is not confident. He notes Caceres' submission threat but believes Yusuff's power and pressure will be too much. He worries about Caceres' grappling but thinks Yusuff's takedown defense and ability to get up will suffice.

"i kind of end up in the use of corner but this one just feels like it's going to potentially be the apple pie shooter"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

The MMA Guru picks Sodiq Yusuff over Alex Caceres, citing Yusuff's maturity in grappling situations and his composure on the feet. He notes that Yusuff stayed calm against Andre Fili and Arnold Allen, showing good sprawls and top control. He believes Yusuff's power will be a difference-maker and predicts a second-round KO. However, he admits Caceres is a good underdog and that the odds are too wide, suggesting a small bet on Caceres might be worth it. He still thinks Yusuff prevails.

second round KO; Caceres is a good underdog bet
"i'm going to go with sadiq yousef over alex caceres the reason being is sadiq yusuf shows a level of maturity beyond his years in grappling situations"
LOSS vs Arnold Allen
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ABC: Vettori vs. Holland · Apr 10, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Arnold Allen 1 21 of 61 34% 26 of 68 2 of 5 40% 0 0 5:09
Sodiq Yusuff 0 47 of 113 41% 79 of 164 0 of 1 0% 1 0 2:33
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Arnold Allen 1 10 of 28 35% 11 of 30 2 of 2 100% 0 0 2:37
Sodiq Yusuff 0 13 of 30 43% 19 of 38 0 of 0 --- 1 0 0:09
2 Arnold Allen 0 9 of 27 33% 13 of 31 0 of 0 --- 0 0 1:01
Sodiq Yusuff 0 18 of 53 33% 29 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:05
3 Arnold Allen 0 2 of 6 33% 2 of 7 0 of 3 0% 0 0 1:31
Sodiq Yusuff 0 16 of 30 53% 31 of 60 0 of 1 0% 0 0 2:19
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Arnold Allen 21 of 61 34% 15 of 53 6 of 7 0 of 1 16 of 52 4 of 6 1 of 3
Sodiq Yusuff 47 of 113 41% 24 of 85 12 of 17 11 of 11 29 of 86 18 of 27 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Arnold Allen 10 of 28 35% 8 of 24 2 of 3 0 of 1 8 of 24 1 of 3 1 of 1
Sodiq Yusuff 13 of 30 43% 3 of 16 5 of 9 5 of 5 10 of 24 3 of 6 0 of 0
2 Arnold Allen 9 of 27 33% 6 of 24 3 of 3 0 of 0 8 of 24 1 of 1 0 of 2
Sodiq Yusuff 18 of 53 33% 10 of 45 4 of 4 4 of 4 16 of 49 2 of 4 0 of 0
3 Arnold Allen 2 of 6 33% 1 of 5 1 of 1 0 of 0 0 of 4 2 of 2 0 of 0
Sodiq Yusuff 16 of 30 53% 11 of 24 3 of 4 2 of 2 3 of 13 13 of 17 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Sodiq Yusuff vs. Arnold Allen

Round 1
In what many deemed the likely “Fight of the Night” candidate, the co-main event pits surging featherweights Yusuff (11-1, 4-0 UFC) and Allen (16-1, 7-0 UFC) against one another. Lengthy win streaks for both men are at stake, and even referee Jason Herzog realizes what may be at stake here. There is no touch of gloves, as both throw long strikes at one another instead. Yusuff steps in with a jab, and Allen circles around the outside to take a slapping leg kick. Allen is on his bike early, as Yusuff chases after him and scores a big right hand. When Yusuff aims a body kick, “Almighty” scoops him up and puts him down on his back. Yusuff scoots to the fence to walk up, but Allen keeps his leg trapped to ground the American. Yusuff keeps a guillotine grip tight to defend the position, and the choke is tight as he uses it to sweep Allen and put the Brit on his back. Allen escapes from the position and scampers back to his feet, and Yusuff follows him. The American puts on the pace by landing heavy shots, but Allen fires back with a few heavy punches. When Allen reaches out with a jab, Yusuff blasts him in the lead leg. Both featherweights trade front kicks, and Yusuff comes at him ready to take Allen’s head off. Allen counters with a left hand, and Yusuff bears down on him throwing heavy shots. Allen nails Yusuff with a laser-like left hand and send the American tumbling to the canvas, but Yusuff is able to gather himself and get back up as Allen kicks so hard he falls over. As Yusuff retreat to the cage instead of pursuing his opponent, Allen is able to get back up and rush forward to land a takedown. Yusuff wall-walks to his feet, and Allen grinds him against the fencing. Allen keeps heavy pressure and controls Yusuff against the wire, until Yusuff gains separation and backs off. Allen lands to the body and head, and the horn sounds.

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

Round 2
Allen leads the dance in the early going until Yusuff turns up the pace and charges forward with punches and kicks. Allen goes back to his circling around the outside as Yusuff marches him down to throw big shots. Allen is able to escape any meaningful strikes, and he blocks a thudding left hand but eats a right on the chin. Allen absorbs a jab and scores an uppercut, and Yusuff is back to stalking him down. The Brit just comes up short with a left hand, and Yusuff takes some power off his shots so that he can land more effectively. Both men connect with shots, and Allen starts to swing wildly and whiff repeatedly. Allen digs a left hand to the body, and Yusuff pays it no mind as he pops Allen with a leg kick. Allen tries to catch it, but he sets it down when Yusuff loops a right hand at him. Allen blasts Yusuff with a clean head kick, and Yusuff takes a moment before reacting, as he wobbles back on baby deer legs. “Almighty” tries to impose his might, but he cannot get the finish as Yusuff regains his bearings and fights off a potential takedown attempt. The pace wanes as Yusuff kicks Allen in the chest, and Allen retreats on the outskirts of the cage as Yusuff kicks him in the ear leg. Allen comes up short with a counter, and he ties up Yusuff to bully him into the chain links. Yusuff kicks off the cage but cannot break this grip or get any distance, and Allen grinds him for the good part of a minute until Yusuff finally gets free. Allen has a head kick blocked, and Yusuff races forward for a final barrage but does not throw anything before the round ends.

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

Round 3
Yusuff starts the round aggressively, only for Allen to turn him around and pursue a single leg takedown almost immediately. The American stuffs it and is pinned against the fence, with Allen trying to lift up his opponent’s leg. When Yusuff pushes off, he just misses with a head kick. Yusuff stuffs a takedown attempt in the center of the cage, and he circles around to lock on with a guillotine choke. Allen frees his neck and spins him around to attack a double, and Yusuff sprawls against the fence before turning around. Yusuff looks to knee his man in the head, but Allen keeps his hands on the canvas to make him a downed fighter. Yusuff does not make the mistake many have been making lately, and instead pulls Allen’s hands off the mat to knee him a few times. The two rising featherweights jockey for position until they break, and they come out swinging. Yusuff starts loading up on shots, and Allen is able to sneak in an uppercut but gets cracked. Yusuff bites down on his mouthpiece and throws heavy shots until Allen ties him up, and the time just ticks by in this position. Yusuff occasionally brings up knees to the thigh to little effect, and Allen smartly keeps hold of underhooks to trap Yusuff in this placement. The clinch walks into the center of the cage, and Yusuff gets of a few solid knees to the body until Allen turns the tables and pushes the American back into the fencing. A single leg takedown attempt allows Allen to stall out much of the rest of the round, with Yusuff elbowing him in the side of the head until Allen abandons it. With a second or two to spare, Allen separates to wing a spinning back elbow, and the fight ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Yusuff (29-28 Allen)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Yusuff (29-28 Allen)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Yusuff (29-28 Allen)

The Official Result
Arnold Allen def. Sodiq Yusuff via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)
BI
Big Brady Expert Lean pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Big Brady slightly leans toward Yusuff, citing his power, volume, and pressure. He notes that Yusuff lands 6.10 significant strikes per minute with 49% accuracy, while Allen is defensively sound but lower volume. Brady thinks the smaller cage favors Yusuff's pressure. However, he is not overly confident and acknowledges Allen's defensive skills and the money coming in on Allen. He has no bet on this fight.

"i'm going to slightly lean with yusuf i do think he's the more dangerous fighter"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Cody picks Yusuff, praising his refined Muay Thai and well-rounded game. He notes Yusuff's losses are old and he's improved, while Allen relies on grappling but may not get takedowns. He thinks Yusuff wins striking exchanges and has better cardio.

"i bet uh use of yesterday minus 124"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Daniel Levi picks Sodiq Yusuff, giving him a slight edge due to his 'Nigerian horsepower' and superior grappling, particularly his top control and get-up game reminiscent of Jose Aldo. He notes that Yusuff has been wobbled in fights but recovers quickly due to his conditioning. Levi respects Arnold Allen's clean boxing and fight IQ but thinks Yusuff's power and wrestling might be the difference. He calls it a high-level fight that could go either way.

"I'm gonna go with so deep to just slightly overpower him and edge this one out"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident pick date unknown
Arnold Allen

The host likes Allen's technical striking, balance, and defensive soundness. He thinks Allen will be faster to the punch and that Yusuff's chin is suspect. He picks Allen to win by decision, noting that the line is close and that Allen offers good value as a slight underdog.

Allen by decision
"i'm taking allen to win this fight via decision i think he's a solid spot at dog odds"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Paul picks Yusuff, highlighting his striking advantage and Allen's reliance on grappling. He notes Allen's close fights and favorable matchmaking, while Yusuff is sharper and has better cardio. He suggests the fight goes the distance.

"i think that sodium stuff is just sharper he'll win those striking exchanges"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Arnold Allen

The MMA Guru picks Arnold Allen as an underdog, noting he would have picked him even as a slight favorite. He believes Allen has better technique, more experience, and a proven chin, while Yusuff has been rocked in past fights. He thinks Allen will use straight shots, calf kicks, and front kicks to outpoint Yusuff, who relies on looping hooks. He mentions Allen's broken hand in the Nick Lentz fight but still won every round. He predicts a 30-27 unanimous decision for Allen.

"i'm picking arnold allen he's an underdog you can't give me arnold allen as an underdog here"
WIN vs Andre Fili
Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 246: McGregor vs. Cowboy · Jan 18, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sodiq Yusuff 0 49 of 145 33% 56 of 152 3 of 7 42% 0 0 2:05
Andre Fili 0 73 of 155 47% 90 of 177 0 of 0 --- 1 1 4:14
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sodiq Yusuff 0 23 of 63 36% 25 of 65 3 of 5 60% 0 0 1:20
Andre Fili 0 35 of 69 50% 39 of 75 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:42
2 Sodiq Yusuff 0 6 of 13 46% 11 of 18 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:44
Andre Fili 0 22 of 37 59% 35 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 3:32
3 Sodiq Yusuff 0 20 of 69 28% 20 of 69 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:01
Andre Fili 0 16 of 49 32% 16 of 49 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sodiq Yusuff 49 of 145 33% 36 of 129 10 of 12 3 of 4 46 of 140 3 of 4 0 of 1
Andre Fili 73 of 155 47% 54 of 131 10 of 15 9 of 9 50 of 120 3 of 5 20 of 30
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sodiq Yusuff 23 of 63 36% 16 of 55 4 of 5 3 of 3 22 of 62 1 of 1 0 of 0
Andre Fili 35 of 69 50% 30 of 62 2 of 4 3 of 3 28 of 59 1 of 2 6 of 8
2 Sodiq Yusuff 6 of 13 46% 3 of 9 3 of 4 0 of 0 4 of 9 2 of 3 0 of 1
Andre Fili 22 of 37 59% 11 of 25 8 of 9 3 of 3 6 of 12 2 of 3 14 of 22
3 Sodiq Yusuff 20 of 69 28% 17 of 65 3 of 3 0 of 1 20 of 69 0 of 0 0 of 0
Andre Fili 16 of 49 32% 13 of 44 0 of 2 3 of 3 16 of 49 0 of 0 0 of 0
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

Daniel picks Sodiq Yusuff to win, likely by knockout. He highlights Yusuff's pure Nigerian power, calf kicks, and conditioning. He notes that Fili has been wobbled before and doesn't check leg kicks, and that Yusuff's fight IQ and calmness in the pocket will be key.

knockout
"I believe so did yusuf presents a lot of stylistic issues in the pocket and will eventually find the chin of the veteran and put him away."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert pick date unknown
Sodiq Yusuff

The host briefly mentions picking Sodiq Yusuff over Andre Fili in quick picks, but provides no detailed analysis. He later comments that the fight could be a letdown despite hype, and considers the under 2.5 rounds but is not sure if he'll bet it.

Under 2.5 rounds considered but not committed.
"I got Sodiq Yusuff over Andre Fili"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Andre Fili

The host initially leans toward Sodiq Yusuff but changes his mind, picking Andre Fili as an underdog. He believes Fili will use his wrestling, training at Team Alpha Male, to take Yusuff down and win. He notes that Yusuff's hype is unproven and that Fili's wrestling advantage is too juicy to pass up.

underdog pick
"Andre Philly's gonna take him down and wrestle [ __ ] him and win that way because he trains a team alpha male and they know how to wrestle over there so I think that Andre feelings gonna get the …"
TKO (punches) R1 4:14 · UFC 241: Cormier vs. Miocic 2 · Aug 17, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sodiq Yusuff 0 24 of 72 33% 24 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 1 34 of 79 43% 34 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sodiq Yusuff 0 24 of 72 33% 24 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 1 34 of 79 43% 34 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sodiq Yusuff 24 of 72 33% 11 of 55 4 of 8 9 of 9 24 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 34 of 79 43% 25 of 70 4 of 4 5 of 5 30 of 71 0 of 1 4 of 7
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sodiq Yusuff 24 of 72 33% 11 of 55 4 of 8 9 of 9 24 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 34 of 79 43% 25 of 70 4 of 4 5 of 5 30 of 71 0 of 1 4 of 7
Gabriel Benítez - Fight History
LOSS vs Maheshate
Decision (split) (28–29, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Nicolau vs. Perez · Apr 27, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Maheshate 0 121 of 295 41% 121 of 296 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 97 of 312 31% 97 of 312 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Maheshate 0 23 of 69 33% 23 of 69 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 21 of 66 31% 21 of 66 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Maheshate 0 51 of 104 49% 51 of 104 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 43 of 116 37% 43 of 116 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:03
3 Maheshate 0 47 of 122 38% 47 of 123 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 33 of 130 25% 33 of 130 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Maheshate 121 of 295 41% 81 of 247 13 of 21 27 of 27 120 of 291 1 of 4 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 97 of 312 31% 67 of 261 26 of 47 4 of 4 93 of 304 4 of 8 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Maheshate 23 of 69 33% 9 of 51 4 of 8 10 of 10 23 of 69 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 21 of 66 31% 13 of 49 6 of 15 2 of 2 21 of 66 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Maheshate 51 of 104 49% 35 of 87 3 of 4 13 of 13 51 of 103 0 of 1 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 43 of 116 37% 29 of 100 12 of 14 2 of 2 42 of 115 1 of 1 0 of 0
3 Maheshate 47 of 122 38% 37 of 109 6 of 9 4 of 4 46 of 119 1 of 3 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 33 of 130 25% 25 of 112 8 of 18 0 of 0 30 of 123 3 of 7 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Maheshate

Angelo picks Maheshate but with very low confidence, calling it 'the tiniest sliver of confidence.' He notes Maheshate is young (24), faster, and stronger, but makes young mistakes and lets opponents dictate the pace. The pick is driven largely by recency bias, as Gabriel Benítez looked poor in his last fight after a layoff. Angelo acknowledges Benítez is a good underdog value because he may have shaken off ring rust.

"I am going to pick mahash shete but with like the tiniest the tiniest sliver of confidence and it's literally only because Gabriel bonitz looked pretty bad in his last fight"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Cody picks Benítez as a dog, citing his technical striking and volume. He notes Maheshate is low-volume and relies on one-punch power. He believes Benítez's experience and durability (if chin holds) will allow him to outwork Maheshate.

"give me the guy who I think is the better technical Striker at plus 165"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident pick date unknown
Maheshate

Daniel believes Maheshate belongs at UFC level, while Benítez is a gatekeeper who loses to fighters who belong. He notes Maheshate's right-side strikes (hand, high kick, knee) will be key against the southpaw Benítez. He predicts a knockout from the right side, possibly a right hand or high kick.

by KO
"I think mahes Shat does belong and I think he's Gonna Knock Out Gabrielle bonitz on Saturday night"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident pick date unknown
Maheshate

Maheshate has a 4-inch height advantage and similar reach, and his ability to establish range with footwork and straight shots down the middle will cause Benítez trouble. He has aligned himself with Fight Ready MMA, which has solid striking coaches. I expect Maheshate to counter Benítez effectively and line up a knockout shot, putting him back into winning ways.

"I believe that we'll eventually see mahash counter bonitz effectively here and line up that knockout shot putting mahash back into his winning ways"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Paul also picks Benítez, noting his high volume and takedown defense. He thinks Maheshate's low output plays into Benítez's hands, and that Benítez can win by decision if he avoids Maheshate's power. He acknowledges Benítez's chin issues but believes his volume will carry him.

"Bonitas wins"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Maheshate

The MMA Guru picks Maheshate to win by TKO in the third round. He notes that Maheshate has shown composure and a willingness to do whatever it takes to win, including eye pokes and takedowns when being outstruck. He criticizes Gabriel Benítez for falling apart in fights and lacking finishing ability, as seen in his failure to put away Billy Quarantillo. The Guru believes Maheshate is hungrier and more technical on the feet.

TKO in the third round
"I'm going to go with mahake getting this one done I'll say TKO in the third"
LOSS vs Jim Miller
Submission (face crank) R3 3:25 · UFC Fight Night: Ankalaev vs. Walker 2 · Jan 13, 2024
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Jim Miller 0 80 of 140 57% 96 of 157 2 of 2 100% 1 0 3:55
Gabriel Benítez 0 80 of 182 43% 84 of 188 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Jim Miller 0 32 of 64 50% 33 of 65 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:17
Gabriel Benítez 0 32 of 77 41% 32 of 77 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:01
2 Jim Miller 0 28 of 38 73% 42 of 53 1 of 1 100% 0 0 2:52
Gabriel Benítez 0 22 of 48 45% 26 of 54 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Jim Miller 0 20 of 38 52% 21 of 39 1 of 1 100% 1 0 0:46
Gabriel Benítez 0 26 of 57 45% 26 of 57 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Jim Miller 80 of 140 57% 50 of 108 10 of 12 20 of 20 67 of 125 5 of 7 8 of 8
Gabriel Benítez 80 of 182 43% 51 of 145 13 of 21 16 of 16 79 of 181 1 of 1 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Jim Miller 32 of 64 50% 17 of 47 5 of 7 10 of 10 30 of 60 2 of 4 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 32 of 77 41% 18 of 56 7 of 14 7 of 7 31 of 76 1 of 1 0 of 0
2 Jim Miller 28 of 38 73% 19 of 29 4 of 4 5 of 5 18 of 28 3 of 3 7 of 7
Gabriel Benítez 22 of 48 45% 17 of 42 2 of 3 3 of 3 22 of 48 0 of 0 0 of 0
3 Jim Miller 20 of 38 52% 14 of 32 1 of 1 5 of 5 19 of 37 0 of 0 1 of 1
Gabriel Benítez 26 of 57 45% 16 of 47 4 of 4 6 of 6 26 of 57 0 of 0 0 of 0
Play-by-Play
View on Sherdog
Jim Miller vs. Gabriel Benitez
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Miller (-120), Benitez (+100)

Round 1
It’s Miller (36-17, 1 NC; 25-16, 1 NC UFC) time. The storied veteran takes on Benitez (23-10, 7-6 UFC) and already has his next date on the calendar circled: April 13. Before then, he has to get past the fiery “Moggly,” who should not just serve as a heavy bag. The co-main event will be covered by referee Dan Miragliotta. The lightweights have all the respect in the world for one another, they touch ‘em up before engaging, and there’s a bad moon on the rise. Miller parries a jab and takes a one-two on the chin, and he walks Benitez down. Benitez tries to back him off with a front kick, and he scores a low kick. Miller gives him one back immediately, and he scores three punches up top and a left to the body. Miller scores a low kick, and he aims a right to the body. Miller walks his foe down and unloads with punches, and Benitez is marked up already and defends with a knee. They trade leg kicks, with Miller throwing harder. Miller chops down the lead leg of his opponent, and Benitez drives a one-two down the pipe. Benitez gets off another one-two, and Miller pushes a front kick out of the way to make Benitez slip. Benitez jumps back up, and he swings heavy punches including a left hand that marks up Miller’s right eye. They connect with right hands at the same time, and Miller blitzes forward to back Benitez off. Miller blasts the body with two loud knees, and Benitez escapes on the outside and gets back to striking range. Miller follows him and swings, and he gets clipped with a left hand. Benitez scores a low kick, Miller fires it back and walks through a jab. Miller plods ahead with punches and an inside leg kick, and he gets one off on the other side. Benitez sticks out a few jabs, and Miller crowds him but does not land flush in an exchange. Miller keeps coming forward, getting off a left hand and a knee up the middle. Benitez ties him up, and Miller aims a body shot before the two split up. Benitez goes to the body, and Miller goes up top. Benitez flicks out a few jabs and gets backed off with a hefty low kick, and he reaches Miller with a long left. Miller loads up on a high kick, and Benitez springs into action with several punches and a body kick. Benitez tags his foe with a left hand, and Miller blinks it out and keeps his guard up to defend another one-two that soars at him at high speed. Miller leaps ahead with a right hook, and he gets met on the way in with a left hand and a low kick. Benitez gets off several jabs and a left hook follows the fourth, and Miller is on him with his own combination to end the spirited round.

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

Round 2
The lightweights touch ‘em up to get started, and fists meet faces shortly thereafter. Benitez wades through a few punches and then backs off, but Miller is right on him and nails him with two leg kicks. Benitez connects with a clean left hand to shake Miller up, and he eats a few punches as Miller is right on him. Miller blasts him with a left hand, lands another, drives up a knee and pounds Benitez with another short left. Miller slashes out an elbow, and Benitez is no worse for wear as he backs away. Miller keeps the high pace and whips down low kicks that have welted up the Mexican’s legs. Benitez looks to get his jab going frequently, and the low kicks from Miller make Benitez lift his leg up preemptively to block them. They land powerful punches, and Miller strides forward confidently to nail Benitez with an elbow. Miller changes things up and hits an easy takedown, and Benitez turns to one side in an effort to set up an armbar. Miller sees it coming and shuts it down, and he stacks Benitez up and works the body. Miller continues to strike, and Benitez moves his legs up to set up a high guard to for a potential submission setup. Miller breaks out of it by connecting with two nasty elbows, and Benitez rolls frantically to grab hold of Miller’s arm and lock down an armbar. Miller moves the proper way through it and gets out of danger, and he again holds himself on top of Benitez and hammers him with standing-to-ground punches. As Benitez turns after absorbing a particularly heavy blow, Miller takes his back and secures a body triangle. Benitez hand-fights to prevent any rear-naked choke, and Miller uses one left to break the wrist lock so that he can isolate Benitez’ neck. Benitez survives to the end of the round.

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

Round 3
The fighters clap hands together as the last round opens, and they are just as willing to slug it out as ever. They stand in the center of the Octagon and trade leather briefly, and Miller targets the busted lead leg of his foe with a kick. Benitez stands firm and throws punches, and he comes up short with a high kick. Miller punches high and kicks low in response, as his corner cheers the kick as if he were in a muay thai contest. Miller sneaks two left hands around the guard, and Benitez is tough as nails but his nose starts leaking. Miller lands a heavy leg kick, and when Benitez backs him off with a few punches, Miller comes back firing with a kick he turns his hip towards. Benitez walks forward to throw hard, and Miller’s eyes begin to close from swelling. Benitez continues to pepper him with punches and kicks, and Miller staggers him with a straight right hand. Miller wades forward without a care in the world, and Benitez’s volume is starting to frustrate his opponent. Miller connects with another vicious low kick, and he shoots for a double that lands him in half guard easily. Benitez looks to scramble, and he gives his back up.
Miller gets the body lock he was looking for, and he immediately starts pursuing the choke. Benitez turns to his side, but Miller has him locked down and fishing for rear-naked choke grip. Miller cranks down with his forearm on Benitez’ jaw, and he does not even bother to slide it under the chin before he starts squeezing. Knowing that he has no way out, Benitez surrenders to the face crank, and Miller has done it.
He adds to his record with the most victories in UFC history, and hardcore fans around the world are elated at the grizzled veteran getting it done by stoppage once more. Pleasing the crowd and commentator Michael Bisping, Miller proudly declares that he has his sights set on UFC 300 in April, with three names in mind: Paul Felder, Matt Brown and Brock Lesnar.

The Official Result
Jim Miller def. Gabriel Benitez R3 3:25 via Submission (Face Crank)
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Jim Miller

Angelo picks Jim Miller but with low confidence due to his age (40). He notes Miller's late-career power and toughness, but acknowledges Gabriel Benítez is a dangerous striker with power. He thinks Miller's wrestling and grit could get the win, but won't bet on a 40-year-old.

"Jim Miller is going to be the pick I do think he wins this fight."
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident pick date unknown
Jim Miller

Big Brady likes Jim Miller's recent form, noting he's been active and knocking people out. He questions Benítez's durability and inactivity, as Benítez has been knocked out multiple times and hasn't fought in over a year. Brady predicts Miller will knock out Benítez in the first round, possibly via a club-and-sub.

first round knockout
"I'm going to say Jim Miller knocks this guy out in the first round"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Cody picks Benítez, citing his solid takedown defense from training with elite wrestlers, his volume striking, and leg kicks that can immobilize Miller. He notes Miller's lack of volume and takedown attempts in recent fights, and believes Benítez can sprawl and keep the fight standing to win by volume.

"I'll take Gabriel bonitz"
DA
Daniel Vreeland Expert Lean pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Daniel Vreeland leans with Gabriel Benítez, citing his youth and durability. He expects a competitive first round, but if it goes past that, Benítez's kicks and knees will wear down Jim Miller. Vreeland acknowledges Miller's finishing ability but thinks Benítez's chin issues are mitigated by the fact that only heavy hitters have knocked him out.

"I'm gonna lean with the younger Mowgli Bonitz here."
LU
Lucrative James Expert pick date unknown

James does not discuss this fight in the transcript. He only covers fights from the card he mentions, and Jim Miller vs Gabriel Benítez is not mentioned.

MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Gabriel Benítez is a technical striker with a strong kicking game, especially to the body, and trains at AKA. He has a significant layoff but looked impressive in his last win over Charlie Ontiveros. Jim Miller is 40 years old and tends to fade in later rounds if he doesn't get an early finish. Benítez's technical striking advantage should allow him to outwork Miller from distance and potentially hurt him to the body. I expect Benítez to win by decision, but I'm cautious about the layoff and Miller's power. I'd wait for better odds on Benítez, ideally plus 140 or higher.

"I'm going to lean bonitz ever so slightly by decision"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Paul leans towards Benítez as the number climbs, noting that Jim Miller's recent wins are against low-level competition and that Benítez has a speed advantage and kicks very hard. He mentions that if the line moves to +150, he would take a shot on Benítez, but he's not heavily invested.

over 1.5 rounds -140
"I'm going to ever so SL lean towards Gabriel Mowgli Benitez as this number climbs"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Jim Miller

The MMA Guru picks Jim Miller, admitting bias but citing Miller's consistency and activity. He notes Gabriel Benítez has been inactive for nearly two years and lost to David Onama. He believes Miller still has fast-twitch muscle and finishing ability, predicting a TKO finish in the first round.

TKO in the first round
"I'm going to go with Jim Miller getting this one done by TKO finish in the first round"
TKO (punches) R1 3:33 · UFC on ESPN: Vera vs. Cruz · Aug 13, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gabriel Benítez 0 37 of 60 61% 47 of 74 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:24
Charlie Ontiveros 0 22 of 47 46% 28 of 55 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gabriel Benítez 0 37 of 60 61% 47 of 74 1 of 2 50% 0 0 1:24
Charlie Ontiveros 0 22 of 47 46% 28 of 55 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gabriel Benítez 37 of 60 61% 26 of 46 6 of 8 5 of 6 14 of 26 2 of 4 21 of 30
Charlie Ontiveros 22 of 47 46% 17 of 40 4 of 6 1 of 1 21 of 45 1 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gabriel Benítez 37 of 60 61% 26 of 46 6 of 8 5 of 6 14 of 26 2 of 4 21 of 30
Charlie Ontiveros 22 of 47 46% 17 of 40 4 of 6 1 of 1 21 of 45 1 of 2 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Angelo picks Gabriel Benítez, citing his technical kickboxing, speed, and better grappling. He notes Ontiveros has chin issues and low-level competition. Benítez is a safe parlay piece despite being a big favorite.

Safe parlay piece
"gabriel's the pick and he's probably safe to be a par lay piece"
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Big Brady picks Gabriel Benítez to win by first-round knockout. He calls Ontiveros the least durable fighter in the UFC, noting he has been finished eight times and has quit in fights. Benítez has power and durability, though his chin is questionable. Brady expects a stand-up war where Benítez lands a big shot early, possibly a body kick, and finishes Ontiveros.

first round knockout
"i'm gonna take benitez to win i'm gonna take him to win by first round knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Cody picks Benítez, calling Ontiveros a 'never was' and noting Benítez's experience and leg kicks. He acknowledges Benítez's durability may be fading but believes Ontiveros' chin is completely gone. Cody thinks Benítez will land clean and finish him early.

"gabriel benitez at his best kills charlie ontavaros unfortunately his best days certainly seem to be behind him"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Lean pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Daniel Levi picks Gabriel Benítez, but with caution. He notes that Benítez should win easily due to his experience and heart, but he is coming off a brutal knockout loss. Ontiveros has a puncher's chance in the first two minutes, but if he doesn't land, Benítez will break him down. Levi is not rushing to bet on Benítez at these odds.

"I got Gabriel just not in a rush to lay odds like that on him at this point in his career."
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident pick date unknown
Charlie Ontiveros

The host is high on Ontiveros as a dog, expecting a first-round KO. He mentions that he wants to bet 'fight doesn't go to decision' and under 1.5 rounds, but notes the line is juiced to -240. He also mentions a possible bet on Ontiveros round one at +800. He calls Ontiveros his 'dog of the card' and believes he gets the KO.

Under 1.5 rounds (wanted but line juiced); Ontiveros round 1 KO at +800 (considering).
"this is my dog of the car charlie oh i think he gets the ko i would only wager round one charlie o at plus 800"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Paul picks Benítez, expecting a first-round knockout. He notes Ontiveros has been knocked out 8-9 times and is made of glass. Paul is shocked the under 1.5 rounds is -240, but still thinks Benítez will smash him. He also likes Benítez over 104.5 fantasy points on PrizePicks.

Under 1.5 rounds -240; Benítez over 104.5 fantasy points (PrizePicks)
"i think mowgli wins in round one i think he absolutely smashes them"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

The host picks Gabriel Benítez, expecting him to survive an early onslaught and secure a late second-round TKO against the cage. He notes Ontiveros's loss to Steve Garcia Jr. as a red flag and believes Benítez can hold the gate one more time. He mentions Ontiveros as a good underdog for a first-round KO bet but ultimately sides with Benítez's experience.

late second round TKO; Charlie Ontiveros by first round KO as underdog bet
"gabriel benitez gets this one done"
LOSS vs David Onama
KO (punches) R1 4:24 · UFC Fight Night: Walker vs. Hill · Feb 19, 2022
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
David Onama 0 46 of 96 47% 46 of 96 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 1 36 of 94 38% 36 of 94 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:10
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 David Onama 0 46 of 96 47% 46 of 96 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 1 36 of 94 38% 36 of 94 0 of 2 0% 0 0 0:10
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
David Onama 46 of 96 47% 19 of 68 17 of 18 10 of 10 45 of 95 1 of 1 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 36 of 94 38% 30 of 86 2 of 4 4 of 4 35 of 92 1 of 2 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 David Onama 46 of 96 47% 19 of 68 17 of 18 10 of 10 45 of 95 1 of 1 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 36 of 94 38% 30 of 86 2 of 4 4 of 4 35 of 92 1 of 2 0 of 0
AN
Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident pick date unknown
David Onama

Angelo picks David Onama, citing his speed, power, and versatility advantage in a kickboxing match. He notes Benitez has grappling tools but rarely uses them (only one takedown in 11 UFC fights). He acknowledges Onama's grappling struggles but believes Benitez won't exploit them.

"i gotta go with onama here to win a kickboxing match"
BI
Big Brady Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
David Onama

Big Brady picks David Onama but is not very confident, warning against overrating Onama's performance against Mason Jones. He notes Benitez has excellent striking defense and could pull off an upset. However, he likes Onama's youth, size, reach, and cardio, and predicts a late knockout as Benitez slows down.

win by second or third round knockout
"I will take ona to win and I'm going to take onama to win by knockout"
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
David Onama

Cody picks Onama, believing he is a legitimate prospect. He highlights Onama's impressive performance against Mason Jones, where he showed great cardio, durability, and the ability to get up from takedowns. Cody notes that Benítez is a gatekeeper on the decline, with low volume and questionable durability after being dropped by Billy Q. He thinks Onama will out-strike Benítez and possibly finish him.

"i got david onama i'm a believer even though he's 0-1 in the ufc"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident pick date unknown
David Onama

Levi is confident in Onama, citing Benitez's decline after wars and weight issues. He notes Onama's impressive short-notice performance against Mason Jones and believes his African power will be too much for Benitez's chin. Levi compares this to other prospects beating faded veterans and expects Onama to find a clean knockout.

Onama by KO
"i'm gonna take him for the win here"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Lean pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Benítez is the seasoned veteran with cleaner striking and a strong kicking game. Onama's hype is based on beating a low-level opponent; Benítez's durability is overstated as a concern. Benítez should outpoint Onama with his southpaw kicks and experience. The under 2.5 rounds and Benítez by KO at +500 are also live.

Benítez by decision (+275), Benítez by KO (+500), under 2.5 rounds (-140)
"the prop that i put out in my best bets and props article was benitez by decision at plus 275"
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
David Onama

Paul picks Onama, impressed by his ferocity and durability in the Mason Jones fight. He notes that Onama will be massive at 145 and that Benítez's durability is questionable after being dropped by Billy Q. Paul thinks Onama's pace and power will be too much for Benítez.

"i was really impressed by david o'nama one on tape leading up until the mason jones fight and two how he powered through against a really legitimate prospect"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
David Onama

The MMA Guru picks David Onama to win by first-round KO. He notes Onama's close fight with Mason Jones on short notice and believes Onama is a great prospect with a big reach advantage. He thinks Gabriel Benitez's durability has declined after several KO losses and that Onama will crack his chin early.

first round ko
"david onarma very very good prospect and i reckon he's going to go out there and get a first round ko and gabriel benitez"
TKO (punches) R3 3:40 · UFC on ESPN: Makhachev vs. Moises · Jul 17, 2021
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Billy Quarantillo 1 57 of 110 51% 67 of 122 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:50
Gabriel Benítez 1 100 of 156 64% 179 of 259 3 of 7 42% 1 0 8:40
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Billy Quarantillo 0 12 of 26 46% 17 of 33 0 of 0 --- 1 1 0:15
Gabriel Benítez 1 25 of 38 65% 60 of 86 0 of 2 0% 0 0 3:30
2 Billy Quarantillo 0 23 of 45 51% 23 of 45 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:11
Gabriel Benítez 0 53 of 79 67% 72 of 104 2 of 3 66% 1 0 2:58
3 Billy Quarantillo 1 22 of 39 56% 27 of 44 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:24
Gabriel Benítez 0 22 of 39 56% 47 of 69 1 of 2 50% 0 0 2:12
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Billy Quarantillo 57 of 110 51% 38 of 89 13 of 15 6 of 6 44 of 89 6 of 9 7 of 12
Gabriel Benítez 100 of 156 64% 73 of 126 20 of 23 7 of 7 61 of 107 11 of 12 28 of 37
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Billy Quarantillo 12 of 26 46% 7 of 21 4 of 4 1 of 1 9 of 19 0 of 0 3 of 7
Gabriel Benítez 25 of 38 65% 17 of 30 6 of 6 2 of 2 14 of 20 1 of 1 10 of 17
2 Billy Quarantillo 23 of 45 51% 14 of 34 7 of 9 2 of 2 18 of 37 5 of 8 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 53 of 79 67% 39 of 62 11 of 14 3 of 3 35 of 58 8 of 9 10 of 12
3 Billy Quarantillo 22 of 39 56% 17 of 34 2 of 2 3 of 3 17 of 33 1 of 1 4 of 5
Gabriel Benítez 22 of 39 56% 17 of 34 3 of 3 2 of 2 12 of 29 2 of 2 8 of 8
CO
Cody Saftic Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Cody is confident in Gabriel Benítez, citing his physical strength, advanced striking, and leg kicks. He believes Billy Quarantillo's lack of strength and power will be exposed, as seen in the Gavin Tucker fight. Cody thinks Benítez's pressure and durability will overwhelm Quarantillo, and he expects a finish or a clear decision.

under 2.5 rounds (plus money)
"I think the line was missed really i mean if you could get gabriel benitez at that opener at plus 115 that was the move."
PA
Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Paul is picking against his favorite Billy Quarantillo for the first time. He notes that Benítez is a brick wall with superior strength and striking, and that Quarantillo's cardio and heart won't be enough against a physically stronger opponent. He expects Benítez to win, possibly by decision or late finish.

"I hate picking against him this will be officially the first time that i do so if he proves me wrong well that's billy doing his thing."
WIN vs Justin Jaynes
TKO (knee to the body and elbows) R1 4:06 · UFC on ESPN: Hermansson vs. Vettori · Dec 05, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Gabriel Benítez 1 38 of 104 36% 38 of 104 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Justin Jaynes 0 22 of 52 42% 22 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Gabriel Benítez 1 38 of 104 36% 38 of 104 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Justin Jaynes 0 22 of 52 42% 22 of 52 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Gabriel Benítez 38 of 104 36% 20 of 83 10 of 12 8 of 9 34 of 99 0 of 0 4 of 5
Justin Jaynes 22 of 52 42% 16 of 44 6 of 8 0 of 0 22 of 52 0 of 0 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Gabriel Benítez 38 of 104 36% 20 of 83 10 of 12 8 of 9 34 of 99 0 of 0 4 of 5
Justin Jaynes 22 of 52 42% 16 of 44 6 of 8 0 of 0 22 of 52 0 of 0 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Big Brady picks Gabriel Benítez, noting the line flipped from Benítez opening as an underdog to now being a heavy favorite. He likes Benítez's leg kicks and overall striking, and believes if Benítez survives Jaynes's early storm, he will take over. He predicts a second-round knockout, as Jaynes has never been knocked out but Benítez has finishing ability. He notes Jaynes is a 'one-round and bust' fighter with poor cardio.

Under 2.5 rounds; Benítez by second-round knockout; Jaynes's cardio a concern; Benítez's leg kicks
"The pick's gonna be Benítez I'm gonna say second round knockout... I'm going to take Benítez to win via second round knockout"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Hesitant pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

Daniel picks Gabriel Benítez but with hesitation, noting that Justin Jaynes has first-round power and has scored knockdowns in both his UFC fights. He believes if Benítez can survive the first round, his body kicks and experience will take over. He cites Javier Mendez calling Benítez the hardest kicker he's ever held pads for, harder than Luke Rockhold or Cain Velasquez. However, he acknowledges Benítez's suspect chin and the emotional weight on Jaynes fighting for his sick father, which historically hasn't favored fighters.

"I think the early go in favors justin janes but if gabrielle can just get past that first round he's gonna take over the fight but it's contingent on getting past that first round so i'll go with mowgli benitez …"
MM
MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

The host picks Gabriel Benítez to win by third round TKO. He highlights Benítez's leg kicks, technical striking, and cardio advantage over Justin Jaynes, who has a narrow path to victory and questionable gas tank. He believes Benítez will chew up the lead leg and finish late as Jaynes fades. He is very confident, giving Benítez a 75% chance of winning.

Third round finish prop; leg kicks will slow Jaynes down; Benítez by KO in third round.
"I do like gabrielle benitez to win this fight probably by third round tko"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

The MMA Guru picks Gabriel Benítez by unanimous decision, expecting him to weather Justin Jaynes' first-round onslaught and take over in the second and third rounds as Jaynes gasses. He notes Benítez has a good chin and has faced tough competition, while Jaynes showed cardio issues in his loss to Gavin Tucker. He predicts a 29-28 scorecard.

method: unanimous decision, round: decision
"i think gabriel benitez can weather the storm in that first round he's got a good chin"
LOSS vs Omar Morales
Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Smith vs. Teixeira · May 13, 2020
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Omar Morales 0 50 of 179 27% 50 of 179 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 63 of 215 29% 63 of 215 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Omar Morales 0 15 of 53 28% 15 of 53 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 12 of 55 21% 12 of 55 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
2 Omar Morales 0 13 of 53 24% 13 of 53 0 of 1 0% 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 20 of 60 33% 20 of 60 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
3 Omar Morales 0 22 of 73 30% 22 of 73 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 0 31 of 100 31% 31 of 100 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Omar Morales 50 of 179 27% 17 of 133 21 of 28 12 of 18 50 of 179 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 63 of 215 29% 36 of 178 20 of 28 7 of 9 61 of 210 2 of 5 0 of 0
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Omar Morales 15 of 53 28% 6 of 39 5 of 7 4 of 7 15 of 53 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 12 of 55 21% 7 of 49 1 of 1 4 of 5 12 of 55 0 of 0 0 of 0
2 Omar Morales 13 of 53 24% 4 of 39 5 of 8 4 of 6 13 of 53 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 20 of 60 33% 9 of 45 9 of 13 2 of 2 20 of 59 0 of 1 0 of 0
3 Omar Morales 22 of 73 30% 7 of 55 11 of 13 4 of 5 22 of 73 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 31 of 100 31% 20 of 84 10 of 14 1 of 2 29 of 96 2 of 4 0 of 0
BI
Big Brady Expert Confident pick date unknown
Omar Morales

Big Brady picks Omar Morales due to Benítez moving up in weight, making Morales the much bigger fighter. He believes Morales can take Benítez down at will and win a comfortable decision, possibly by knockout. He notes Benítez has been knocked out before and that Morales is very green but should dominate due to the size difference.

Morales wins by decision (29-28 or 30-27), possible knockout
"I like Omar Morales here to win a comfortable decision and possibly in a knockout"
DA
Daniel Levi Expert Confident pick date unknown
Omar Morales

Daniel Levi picks Omar Morales, predicting a knockout via right high kick or counter. He criticizes Benítez's predictable offense (straight left, left kick) and suspect chin, noting that Morales is a former kickboxer with cleaner technique and power. He believes Morales will move to 2-0 in the UFC.

"I think Omar Morales is gonna knock him out"
TH
The MMA Guru Expert Confident pick date unknown
Gabriel Benítez

The MMA Guru picks Gabriel Benítez, stating he is not sold on Omar Morales after his lackluster UFC debut against Dong Hyun Ma. He notes that Benítez is in his prime at 31 and has had good showings in the UFC, including rocking Sadiq Yusuf. He predicts Benítez will win by decision or TKO, calling Morales an 'old man' making his debut too late.

"Gabriel Benitez is gonna go out there and get a huge upset over Omar Morales... by decision or TKO."
LOSS vs Sodiq Yusuff
TKO (punches) R1 4:14 · UFC 241: Cormier vs. Miocic 2 · Aug 17, 2019
Totals
FighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
Sodiq Yusuff 0 24 of 72 33% 24 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 1 34 of 79 43% 34 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Per Round
RdFighterKDSig. Str.Sig. Str. % Total Str.TDTD % Sub. AttRev.Ctrl
1 Sodiq Yusuff 0 24 of 72 33% 24 of 72 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:00
Gabriel Benítez 1 34 of 79 43% 34 of 79 0 of 0 --- 0 0 0:04
Significant Strikes
FighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
Sodiq Yusuff 24 of 72 33% 11 of 55 4 of 8 9 of 9 24 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 34 of 79 43% 25 of 70 4 of 4 5 of 5 30 of 71 0 of 1 4 of 7
Significant Strikes Per Round
RdFighterSig. Str.Sig. Str. % HeadBodyLeg DistanceClinchGround
1 Sodiq Yusuff 24 of 72 33% 11 of 55 4 of 8 9 of 9 24 of 72 0 of 0 0 of 0
Gabriel Benítez 34 of 79 43% 25 of 70 4 of 4 5 of 5 30 of 71 0 of 1 4 of 7