Raphael Assunção vs Rob Font

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Davey Grant	0	42 of 58	72%	67 of 85	5 of 12	41%	0	0	4:17
Raphael Assunção	1	65 of 138	47%	80 of 154	0 of 0	---	1	0	0:52

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Davey Grant	0	13 of 19	68%	23 of 31	1 of 1	100%	0	1:46
Raphael Assunção	0	20 of 39	51%	20 of 39	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
2	Davey Grant	0	16 of 20	80%	27 of 31	2 of 4	50%	0	1:38
Raphael Assunção	0	20 of 44	45%	22 of 46	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
3	Davey Grant	0	13 of 19	68%	17 of 23	2 of 7	28%	0	0:53
Raphael Assunção	1	25 of 55	45%	38 of 69	0 of 0	---	1	0:52

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Davey Grant	42 of 58	72%	16 of 29	8 of 8	18 of 21	38 of 53	3 of 4	1 of 1
Raphael Assunção	65 of 138	47%	28 of 91	18 of 28	19 of 19	59 of 132	4 of 4	2 of 2

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Davey Grant	13 of 19	68%	4 of 8	2 of 2	7 of 9	12 of 18	0 of 0	1 of 1
Raphael Assunção	20 of 39	51%	5 of 21	7 of 10	8 of 8	20 of 39	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Davey Grant	16 of 20	80%	4 of 8	4 of 4	8 of 8	14 of 17	2 of 3	0 of 0
Raphael Assunção	20 of 44	45%	6 of 25	4 of 9	10 of 10	18 of 42	2 of 2	0 of 0
3	Davey Grant	13 of 19	68%	8 of 13	2 of 2	3 of 4	12 of 18	1 of 1	0 of 0
Raphael Assunção	25 of 55	45%	17 of 45	7 of 9	1 of 1	21 of 51	2 of 2	2 of 2

Raphael Assuncao vs. Davey Grant
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Grant (-140), Assuncao (+120)

Round 1
One of the more underrated bantamweight greats might be entering the final fight of his storied career, as longtime Brazilian contender Assuncao (28-9, 12-6 UFC) is a few months away from his 41st birthday. He battles .500 UFC fighter Grant (14-6, 5-5 UFC), who posts an 86% finish rate and generally lives up to his “Dangerous” nickname. The match will be officiated by nonsense-allergic referee Keith Peterson, and the two fighters opt to clap hands. Assuncao moves to the center of the cage briefly, and they clash legs early. As Assuncao pushes back, Grant does the same, and fingers rake eyes. Grant offers an apology, and they resume nailing one another on the legs. Assuncao sits down on a booming right hand, wrapping his arm just around the head and not connecting with it. Grant boots his foe in the body, and Assuncao catches it and scores a right hand to put Grant on his back. Assuncao whips an elbow down, and Grant threatens with a triangle choke that the Brazilian sees coming from a mile away. Grant scoots to the wall on his backside, and Assuncao follows him from behind and slides his left arm around the chest in hopes of setting up a rear-naked choke. Assuncao releases the arm so that he can punch Grant in the side of the head repeatedly, all while Grant tries and fails to scramble away. Grant stands back up despite Assuncao’s arm around his neck, and he spins around and shoves his man back to get space. Grant, with distance to strike, does just that with a front kick. Grant goes to the body and tries to swing a left hand over the top, but Assuncao intercepts him with a push kick. Grant scores a right hand after regaining his balance, and he switches stances right into a right hook in response. Assuncao lets go with a few punches on the inside, and he ducks back and blocks a head kick. Grant darts forward with a few punches, sneaking them in and evading the counters. Assuncao measures a right hand, and he signals to Peterson that the two clashed heads. Grant spins with a wheel kick that just misses, and Assuncao ducks a few leaping punches to clinch up and push Grant to the wire. The Brazilian lands a few knees to the thigh before breaking off with a right hand. Grant winds up with a right hook, landing it a second before the bell.

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

Round 2
The respect is high to start off the second round, as the two gladly high-five to get going again. They trade body kicks, and Assuncao leans back to dodge a spinning wheel kick. Assuncao checks a low kick, and he tries to engage but gets popped with an overhand right. Assuncao chips at the calf of his opponent, while checking those that come back to his lead wheel. Assuncao grabs hold of a single, ducking a punch from his opponent, and he is stood up before securing it. Assuncao does land a right hand on the break, and they reset. The two land lefts at the same time, and Grant goes high with a kick that whizzes past his foe’s face. Grant throws a naked leg kick, and Assuncao counters with an emphatic right hand that makes Grant turn about. Grant steps in to release a spinning back elbow, and Assuncao blocks the worst of it and fires off a low kick. Grant kicks high and low, and the Brazilian swats them away without much concern. Assuncao looses a head kick, and he backs off as Grant walks him down and wings right hooks. Grant lunges forward, and his only strike that lands is a low kick. Grant gets a little too reckless, getting countered on the way in, and he finds himself getting grabbed by the veteran. Grant is warned for grabbing the fence to prevent the takedown, and Assuncao still drags him to his knees despite the foul. Grant fights his way back to his feet, but Assuncao has his arm around Grant’s waist with his legs intertwined for a trip. Grant looks to counter Assuncao with a trip, only to get thrown down once more. Assuncao gets a hook in as he takes the back, and Grant defends himself from anything else until the bell rings.

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

Round 3
The last round opens with a glove touch, and then the two throw hands. Both fighters connect with clean overhand rights, and they back off to measure one another. Assuncao beats the Brit to the punch with another right over the top, and Grant tries and fails to reach him back. As Grant advances, Assuncao kicks at his lead leg, which changes as Grant switches stances a few times. Assuncao hops away from a low kick, and he gets caught with a right hand coming in. Grant shucks him aside and strings a few punches together, ending it with a head kick that slides over the top. “Dangerous Davey” suddenly unleashes a torrent of punishment, blasting Assuncao with punches until he knocks Assuncao off-balance. Assuncao wobbles back to the fence, and he shoots for a desperation takedown to keep himself afloat. Grant defends the first try, but Assuncao redoubles his effort and pulls Grant’s ankle out to strip away his footing and put the Brit on his back. Assuncao holds on from an unorthodox half guard, but this posture allows Grant to explode back up. Grant fires off an uppercut that snaps Assuncao’s head back like a Pez dispenser, and he still has the Brazilian hurt. Grant tosses aside takedown entries from the veteran so that he can lay into him with punches, and he hurts Assuncao again in an exchange. Assuncao dives after a takedown, and Grant grabs the fence again to stop it. This time, Peterson has had enough of this nonsense, and he pauses the fight and deducts a point from Grant. Assuncao also loses his position from this, and Grant is thrilled so that he can tee off on the Brazilian some more. Assuncao struggles to stay on his feet from an onslaught of strikes, and Grant spins with a back fist that drills into the side of Assuncao’s head. Assuncao tries desperately to get the fight down, and he falls on top of Grant as the British fighter still tries to scramble.
“Dangerous Davey” wraps his legs around Assuncao’s neck to set up an inverted triangle choke, and the unexpected move is secured in a hurry. Assuncao is nonresponsive from on top after the choke gets tight, and he goes out without Peterson recognizing it immediately. Peterson reaches in to check on the Brazilian, who is completely unconscious, and he determines that Assuncao is out and stops the fight.
As soon as the fight is stopped, Assuncao’s coach, Eric Nicksick, is outraged from Peterson’s point deduction that also resulted in Assuncao losing his position, and it is explained that Grant had sat up and gained a superior position – and cannot be rewarded for gaining that position due to a foul. After Assuncao comes to, he removes his gloves and places them in the center of the cage to signal his retirement, while saying in his quick farewell interview that, “I think my time has come.”

The Official Result
Davey Grant def. Raphael Assuncao R3 4:43 via Technical Submission (Inverted Triangle Choke)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Mar 5, 2023 (6 days before fight)

Davey Grant

Angelo picks Davey Grant as the better striker with takedown defense that should hold up against the aging Assunção. He acknowledges Assunção's past success but believes Grant's power and composure will prevail. He notes the line at -160 is likely to move and considers it a safe pick.

line movement comment: expects line to close at -300

"I'm still going the Davey Grant side because I do think he's going to be the better Striker and his takedown defense should hold up."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Davey Grant

Big Brady picks Davey Grant, noting Grant has never looked this good and is in his prime at 37. He expects Grant to march forward with wild looping shots and put Assunção away, as Assunção has been knocked out recently by Garbrandt and Simon. Brady predicts a second-round knockout, though he acknowledges Assunção could win via wrestling if Grant struggles on the mat.

win by KO in round 2

"I think Davey Grant is going to March this guy down Wing big looping shots wild shots and I think he puts a sunset out here"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Davey Grant

Cody picks Grant, citing Grant's toughness and ability to push the pace. He notes Assunção's age and recent surgery, but acknowledges Assunção could win a close decision. He calls it a close fight.

"I think I will go with Davey Grant don't feel great about it"

Bookie Beatdown

Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Mar 9, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Raphael Assunção

Connor picks Assunção despite concerns about his age and recent performances. He believes Assunção's counter-striking, jab, and wrestling will be key against Grant's wild brawling style. He notes that Grant makes many mistakes and Assunção can take him down and control him, though there's always a risk of Grant landing a lucky shot.

Grant is favorite at -130 to -150; Assunção underdog at +110 to +120. Connor notes the line has moved toward Grant.

"I think I have to pick a Sun Tso too. That's it. I just think it's, I'm worried that he'll get knocked out because Grant's got a weird stuff is going to happen to him more and more."

MMA Vivisection

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 6, 2023 (5 days before fight)

Davey Grant

I think Grant's power will be too much for Assunção, who has shown durability issues at 40. Assunção is the better technical striker, but Grant throws heavy shots and can end the fight at any moment. Assunção's recent losses have come by knockout, and Grant has the power to exploit that. I expect a knockout within the first 12 minutes.

Grant by KO

"I think that one of those big shots from David Grant are going to get through within the first 12 minutes of this fight and I think that will likely be the end of the night"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Mar 8, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Davey Grant

Paul picks Grant but is not confident, noting Assunção's low volume and close fights. He thinks Grant's volume and takedown defense could be key, but calls it a dicey fight and says he won't bet it.

"I'll take David Grant on price because they got 62 and a half which is super low for a grand fight"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 7, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Davey Grant

The MMA Guru picks Davey Grant, citing his toughness and finishing ability. He believes Grant can finish Assunção, while Assunção is unlikely to finish Grant. He notes Grant's win over Jonathan Martinez and his competitive fight with Adrian Yanez (which he thought Grant won). He predicts a KO in the second round.

by KO, second round

"I'm gonna go with Davey Grant too dangerous I think he finds a finish by KO second round"

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Mar 9, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Raphael Assunção

Zane picks Assunção but is hesitant due to his age and recent decline. He notes that Assunção's counter-striking and wrestling should neutralize Grant's wild pressure, but Grant's power and unpredictability make it a risky pick. He mentions that Assunção has seen everything and should be able to handle Grant's style.

"I'm with you. I mean, I would expect these odds to be pretty close. Again, Sun Tso's old and we're both understandably nervous about his chances here."

MMA Vivisection

WIN vs Victor Henry

Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Grasso vs. Araujo · Oct 15, 2022

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Raphael Assunção	0	60 of 91	65%	78 of 110	2 of 5	40%	0	0	4:29
Victor Henry	0	55 of 126	43%	61 of 134	0 of 1	0%	0	0	0:03

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Raphael Assunção	23 of 32	71%	23 of 32	0 of 2	0%	0:30
1	Victor Henry	22 of 48	45%	25 of 52	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Raphael Assunção	17 of 29	58%	35 of 48	1 of 1	100%	2:16
2	Victor Henry	15 of 27	55%	17 of 30	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	Raphael Assunção	20 of 30	66%	20 of 30	1 of 2	50%	1:43
3	Victor Henry	18 of 51	35%	19 of 52	0 of 1	0%	0:03

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Raphael Assunção	60 of 91	65%	40 of 65	8 of 12	12 of 14	42 of 70	15 of 16	3 of 5
Victor Henry	55 of 126	43%	23 of 85	22 of 26	10 of 15	51 of 120	4 of 6	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Raphael Assunção	23 of 32	71%	13 of 21	4 of 4	6 of 7	17 of 26	6 of 6	0 of 0
1	Victor Henry	22 of 48	45%	10 of 32	11 of 14	1 of 2	20 of 46	2 of 2	0 of 0
2	Raphael Assunção	17 of 29	58%	11 of 20	2 of 4	4 of 5	9 of 18	5 of 6	3 of 5
2	Victor Henry	15 of 27	55%	4 of 13	5 of 5	6 of 9	14 of 26	1 of 1	0 of 0
3	Raphael Assunção	20 of 30	66%	16 of 24	2 of 4	2 of 2	16 of 26	4 of 4	0 of 0
3	Victor Henry	18 of 51	35%	9 of 40	6 of 7	3 of 4	17 of 48	1 of 3	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Raphael Assuncao vs. Victor Henry
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Henry (-345), Assuncao (+285)

Round 1
At the ripe age of 40, some believe the book on longtime bantamweight contender Assuncao (27-9, 11-6 UFC) is coming towards its conclusion soon. In hopes of snapping a career-long rough patch of four losses in a row, Assuncao will try to show there are still more pages to be written as he takes on the well-traveled Henry (22-5, 1-0 UFC). The 135ers clap hands ahead of their scheduled melee, and referee Kerry Hatley is prepped and ready for what is about to go down. Henry strikes first with a kick to the thigh, and Assuncao responds with the exact same strike. Henry stalks down the UFC vet and lines up a right hand, but he misses the mark. Assuncao is tentative and switching stances, with his own attack largely muted as he seems coiled to wait for a response. Henry rips the body with a kick, and Assuncao catches it, leading to them both trading punches while Henry’s right leg is in the air. Henry pulls his leg out and resets, and he advances while tossing out a front kick. Assuncao sits down on a heavy left hand that graces the chin, and Henry takes note and feints and fakes multiple times. Henry ducks this telegraphed punch and stings his man with a left, and his body kick lands again solidly. Assuncao pushes a front kick up the middle, and he swings a left hook when Henry bears down on him. Henry gets his leg grabbed again, and Assuncao once more cannot set him down, but Assuncao releases it and strings together a solid one-two. Henry blinks it out and continues his constant forward pressure, and they end up clinching him until he can shake off the grip. Assuncao throws with bad intentions, and “La Mangosta” dodges the worst of them and releases a right hand that pops Assuncao in the chops. The Brazilian evades the second such hook, and he snatches Henry and turns him to the wall. Henry shoves him away and gains some space, and he marches on while Assuncao backs himself to the cage on the other side. They trade heavy punches, and a body kick from Henry bounces off the cup. Assuncao shakes his cup and they do not pause, so Henry boots Assuncao upside the head. Assuncao shrugs it off so that he can throw heavy hands, and he fires off alternating punches while Henry is backed up on the fencing. Henry slides out of the way and pushes the action, mixing in body kicks, low kicks and punches. As Henry gets fancy with a crescent kick, Assuncao snipes him with a right hand. Henry wades forward to engage, but the bell sounds.

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

Round 2
The bantamweights take the center of the cage and begin trading low kicks, and as if they both got the same memo, they switch to front kicks. Henry spins with a back kick, and Assuncao does the same, while neither lands flush. Henry pressures his man while spamming low kicks, softening the Brazilian up and dodging the right hook that wings by him. Assuncao connects with that heavy blow when he tries again, and Henry shakes his head and spins with a wheel kick. Assuncao capitalizes on this and jumps on top to take top position. Henry defends with an armbar setup off his back, but the veteran savvy of Assuncao pays off and allows him to move through it and keep striking. After a handful of powerful fists land on the dome, Henry explodes and gets back to his feet, only to be met with a head kick. Henry shrugs it off and gets out of the close range so he can initiate the offense. Henry swipes out with a left hand, and some swelling has developed on both cheeks of Assuncao. The bantamweights throw hammers at one another in close range, and Henry tries for a kick only for it to get caught. Henry tries to slug it out, but Assuncao lines up several clean right hands to knock Henry from one side of the cage to the other, all while hopping away. Assuncao uses this awkward situation to hit a takedown, and he finds himself in early submission danger. Assuncao punches his way out of it to open a cut on the left side of Henry’s face, but Henry doggedly pursues an armbar. The longtime contender fights off various submission setups including a shoulder lock and a toe hold, and Henry works his way to his feet right before the horn sounds.

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

Round 3
A touch of gloves commences the final frame, and Henry walks his opponent down and gets slugged in the face with a right hand. Henry tries to make him may, but he gets clubbed with a left hook. Assuncao is connecting with clean, heavy counters, and Henry is taking a beating but still coming forward. Henry has kicks blocked and checked, but he slings a right hand that wobbles Assuncao. Henry strings several punches together, and Assuncao fires back with reckless abandon and far more power. Assuncao scoops up a leg and dumps Henry to the mat, and like the last two rounds, Henry threatens with a submission when landing. Assuncao turns through the possible triangle, but this allows Henry to stand back up. Henry walks Assuncao down and gets punched in the face for his effort, but not before landing a few shots of his own. Henry lashes out with an elbow, and Assuncao backs off and gives him a thumbs-up for the effective blow. Assuncao catches a body kick and drives Henry from wall to wall, but this time, there is no takedown to be had. Henry springs away and walks into a crisp right hand, and Henry shakes it out and eats a follow-up right hand. Henry slides out of the way from a power punch, but they are not one-and-done for the grizzled veteran. Henry absorbs a pair of knees up the middle as they get too close, and he resets and rushes forward with a right hand and a body kick. Assuncao clinches him up, and Henry attempts to dump him down but settles to release him and line up a solid one-two. Assuncao dives down for a double, where he switches to a single and picks Henry’s right leg up but cannot get the leverage to ground him. Henry tries to sneak in short shots on the inside while Assuncao is still hanging on to the leg, and he manages to keep his balance with his back against the wire. Henry sets it down with 10 seconds to spare, and Assuncao cracks him with a left hand. Henry races after him in hopes of one last ditch effort, but the bell rings to conclude the close match before he can reach his aging but very game opponent.

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

The Official Result
Raphael Assuncao def. Victor Henry via Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 9, 2022 (6 days before fight)

Victor Henry

Angelo picks Victor Henry, citing his impressive UFC debut over Honey Barcelos where he landed 222 strikes and defended six takedowns. He notes that Assunção is on a four-fight losing streak and older, but warns that the line (3-to-1) is wide and that Honey Barcelos looked bad in that fight. He thinks Victor wins but cautions that the odds may be too high for a confident bet.

Line is wide; premium members may have bets involving Henry

"I like Victor in this spot with that being said this line is absolutely why it's a very wide line"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 9, 2022 (6 days before fight)

Victor Henry

Big Brady confidently picks Victor Henry to win by decision. He notes that Assunção is 40, on a four-fight skid, and has very low volume, while Henry throws a ton of strikes (352 in his last fight). He believes Henry's pressure and output will overwhelm Assunção, and that Assunção's only path is wrestling, but Henry's takedown defense looked good against Barcelos. Brady sees a potential late finish but calls it a decision.

"this should be Victor Henry all day and it's not even close"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Oct 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Victor Henry

Cody picks Victor Henry confidently, citing his impressive performance against Ronnie Barcelos where he landed 180 significant strikes. He notes Henry has volume, wrestling, and has fought tough competition in Japan. He thinks Assunção is old, slow, and has declined, and Henry should win by decision or TKO.

under 70.5 significant strikes for Henry on PrizePicks (mentioned by Paul, Cody agrees)

"I'm picking Victor Victor Henry but I got minus 400 it's like how often does he win this fight like eight out of 10 times."

Bookie Beatdown

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 11, 2022 (4 days before fight)

Victor Henry

Henry is younger and in his prime, while Assunção is 40 and on a four-fight losing streak, with three finishes. Henry's pressure and volume should overwhelm Assunção, who may have declined durability. Henry is not a big power puncher, so a decision is likely. The host recommends parlaying Henry or taking the decision prop at +120.

Victor Henry by decision +120

"I will be in on uh the Victor Henry side here minus 330 sure you could possibly parlay it or even if you just want to go diving into the the the props here via decision is sitting at plus …"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Oct 12, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Victor Henry

Paul is confident in Victor Henry, noting his extensive career in Japan with wins over multiple UFC veterans. He thinks Henry's volume and wrestling will be too much for Assunção, who is 40 years old and has been knocked out in his last two fights. He picks Henry by decision but notes a TKO is possible.

under 70.5 significant strikes for Henry on PrizePicks (he argues no one has landed over 65 on Assunção in years)

"I got Victor Henry all day... he's got the volume he's got the wrestling."

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 11, 2022 (4 days before fight)

Victor Henry

The MMA Guru picks Victor Henry as a no-brainer, citing his impressive short-notice win over Hani Barcelos. He notes that Assunção has shown a chin change after KO losses and may be hesitant. He believes Henry's pressure, size, and reach advantage will break Assunção over three rounds, winning by unanimous decision 30-27.

prediction: unanimous decision 30-27

"no brainer Victor Henry in my opinion"

THE MMA GURU

LOSS vs Ricky Simón

KO/TKO R2 2:14 · UFC Fight Night: Lewis vs. Daukaus · Dec 18, 2021

LOSS vs Cody Garbrandt

KO (punch) R2 4:59 · UFC 250: Nunes vs. Spencer · Jun 06, 2020

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Cody Garbrandt	0	17 of 52	32%	17 of 52	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
Raphael Assunção	1	19 of 43	44%	20 of 45	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:03

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Cody Garbrandt	0	9 of 23	39%	9 of 23	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	Raphael Assunção	0	8 of 20	40%	8 of 20	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Cody Garbrandt	0	8 of 29	27%	8 of 29	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Raphael Assunção	1	11 of 23	47%	12 of 25	0 of 0	---	0:03

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Cody Garbrandt	17 of 52	32%	4 of 25	2 of 11	11 of 16	17 of 52	0 of 0	0 of 0
Raphael Assunção	19 of 43	44%	7 of 24	2 of 5	10 of 14	19 of 43	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Cody Garbrandt	9 of 23	39%	2 of 11	0 of 4	7 of 8	9 of 23	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Raphael Assunção	8 of 20	40%	1 of 10	0 of 2	7 of 8	8 of 20	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Cody Garbrandt	8 of 29	27%	2 of 14	2 of 7	4 of 8	8 of 29	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Raphael Assunção	11 of 23	47%	6 of 14	2 of 3	3 of 6	11 of 23	0 of 0	0 of 0

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Jun 3, 2020 (3 days before fight)

Raphael Assunção

Big Brady picks Raphael Assunção by second-round knockout, citing Garbrandt's poor chin and recent knockout losses. He thinks Assunção has underrated power and will catch Garbrandt. He acknowledges Garbrandt is the better striker but cannot trust his chin. He notes Assunção is the underdog and sees value.

Assunção by second-round knockout; value on Assunção at +125

"I'm gonna pick us out so I think he's going to you know keep this fight very close I think it's when we actually be a very close fight I do actually give the the lean gar Brant and the …"

DFS by the Numbers

Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2020 (2 days before fight)

Raphael Assunção

Daniel believes Assunção's counter-striking style is a bad matchup for Garbrandt, who tends to get reckless when hurt. He notes Garbrandt's chin is compromised and that Munoz chopped his legs with calf kicks, which may have led to his desperate rush. He sees Assunção winning a close decision or possibly catching Garbrandt with counters, and calls it a dog-or-pass situation.

Assunção by decision, leg kicks

"I'm gonna go with ATL zone Raphael assumes how to get this one done"

Half the Battle

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Jun 4, 2020 (2 days before fight)

Cody Garbrandt

Cody Garbrandt has heavy hands and great footwork, and working with Mark Henry should improve his game planning. Raphael Assunção is a counter-striker with leg kicks, but Garbrandt's power and movement can overcome that. Garbrandt's chin has been questioned, but if he fights disciplined, he can land a knockout. The under 2.5 rounds is also a good play.

Under 2.5 rounds (+150); Cody Garbrandt by KO in round 2

"i like cody garbrandt i'm going to take him to win by by second round ko"

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked May 29, 2020 (8 days before fight)

Raphael Assunção

The MMA Guru picks Raphael Assunção over Cody Garbrandt. He believes Garbrandt has an emotional issue that can't be trained out, leading to him getting KO'd again. He notes that Assunção has been training consistently and will crack Garbrandt with a big shot, finishing him in the first round by KO. He admits he previously picked Garbrandt but is done betting on him.

first round KO

"I'm picking by a son Sal I was gonna pick pedro muñoz to win by first round KO against God rang in his last fight I went with gar Brandt anyway hoping he would change his ways I'm done betting …"

THE MMA GURU

LOSS vs Cory Sandhagen

Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC 241: Cormier vs. Miocic 2 · Aug 17, 2019

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Cory Sandhagen	0	45 of 81	55%	65 of 103	4 of 6	66%	0	0	2:10
Raphael Assunção	0	62 of 116	53%	78 of 135	0 of 1	0%	0	1	3:46

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Cory Sandhagen	16 of 34	47%	17 of 35	0 of 0	---	0	0:06
1	Raphael Assunção	25 of 52	48%	30 of 58	0 of 1	0%	0	0:35
2	Cory Sandhagen	13 of 19	68%	20 of 28	1 of 2	50%	0	0:57
2	Raphael Assunção	14 of 20	70%	22 of 29	0 of 0	---	1	2:53
3	Cory Sandhagen	16 of 28	57%	28 of 40	3 of 4	75%	0	1:07
3	Raphael Assunção	23 of 44	52%	26 of 48	0 of 0	---	0	0:18

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Cory Sandhagen	45 of 81	55%	15 of 50	20 of 20	10 of 11	30 of 65	12 of 13	3 of 3
Raphael Assunção	62 of 116	53%	23 of 67	16 of 21	23 of 28	55 of 108	3 of 4	4 of 4

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Cory Sandhagen	16 of 34	47%	3 of 20	9 of 9	4 of 5	11 of 29	5 of 5	0 of 0
1	Raphael Assunção	25 of 52	48%	8 of 31	6 of 8	11 of 13	25 of 52	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Cory Sandhagen	13 of 19	68%	4 of 10	6 of 6	3 of 3	6 of 11	4 of 5	3 of 3
2	Raphael Assunção	14 of 20	70%	2 of 7	6 of 6	6 of 7	8 of 13	2 of 3	4 of 4
3	Cory Sandhagen	16 of 28	57%	8 of 20	5 of 5	3 of 3	13 of 25	3 of 3	0 of 0
3	Raphael Assunção	23 of 44	52%	13 of 29	4 of 7	6 of 8	22 of 43	1 of 1	0 of 0

LOSS vs Marlon Moraes

Submission (guillotine choke) R1 3:17 · UFC Fight Night: Assunção vs. Moraes 2 · Feb 02, 2019

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Marlon Moraes	0	2 of 12	16%	3 of 13	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
Raphael Assunção	1	10 of 23	43%	12 of 25	0 of 0	---	1	0	1:15

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Marlon Moraes	0	2 of 12	16%	3 of 13	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00
1	Raphael Assunção	1	10 of 23	43%	12 of 25	0 of 0	---	1	0	1:15

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Marlon Moraes	2 of 12	16%	1 of 10	0 of 0	1 of 2	2 of 12	0 of 0	0 of 0
Raphael Assunção	10 of 23	43%	8 of 17	0 of 2	2 of 4	7 of 18	0 of 0	3 of 5

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Marlon Moraes	2 of 12	16%	1 of 10	0 of 0	1 of 2	2 of 12	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Raphael Assunção	10 of 23	43%	8 of 17	0 of 2	2 of 4	7 of 18	0 of 0	3 of 5

WIN vs Rob Font

Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC 226: Miocic vs. Cormier · Jul 07, 2018

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Raphael Assunção	0	54 of 120	45%	93 of 161	2 of 2	100%	0	0	4:31
Rob Font	0	20 of 122	16%	20 of 122	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Raphael Assunção	14 of 41	34%	14 of 41	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	Rob Font	10 of 61	16%	10 of 61	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Raphael Assunção	15 of 34	44%	34 of 55	1 of 1	100%	2:15
2	Rob Font	5 of 25	20%	5 of 25	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	Raphael Assunção	25 of 45	55%	45 of 65	1 of 1	100%	2:16
3	Rob Font	5 of 36	13%	5 of 36	0 of 0	---	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Raphael Assunção	54 of 120	45%	41 of 98	4 of 7	9 of 15	36 of 95	1 of 1	17 of 24
Rob Font	20 of 122	16%	12 of 105	6 of 10	2 of 7	20 of 122	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Raphael Assunção	14 of 41	34%	7 of 29	1 of 2	6 of 10	13 of 40	1 of 1	0 of 0
1	Rob Font	10 of 61	16%	5 of 47	3 of 7	2 of 7	10 of 61	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Raphael Assunção	15 of 34	44%	13 of 29	1 of 2	1 of 3	7 of 24	0 of 0	8 of 10
2	Rob Font	5 of 25	20%	3 of 23	2 of 2	0 of 0	5 of 25	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Raphael Assunção	25 of 45	55%	21 of 40	2 of 3	2 of 2	16 of 31	0 of 0	9 of 14
3	Rob Font	5 of 36	13%	4 of 35	1 of 1	0 of 0	5 of 36	0 of 0	0 of 0

WIN vs Matthew Lopez

KO (punch) R3 1:50 · UFC Fight Night: Poirier vs. Pettis · Nov 11, 2017

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Raphael Assunção	1	46 of 154	29%	48 of 156	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:01
Matthew Lopez	0	34 of 93	36%	36 of 95	1 of 4	25%	0	0	0:28

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Raphael Assunção	0	18 of 73	24%	19 of 74	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	Matthew Lopez	0	18 of 43	41%	18 of 43	1 of 1	100%	0:17
2	Raphael Assunção	0	20 of 55	36%	21 of 56	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Matthew Lopez	0	11 of 39	28%	13 of 41	0 of 2	0%	0:11
3	Raphael Assunção	1	8 of 26	30%	8 of 26	0 of 0	---	0:01
3	Matthew Lopez	0	5 of 11	45%	5 of 11	0 of 1	0%	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Raphael Assunção	46 of 154	29%	24 of 123	6 of 12	16 of 19	45 of 153	1 of 1	0 of 0
Matthew Lopez	34 of 93	36%	16 of 68	12 of 19	6 of 6	34 of 93	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Raphael Assunção	18 of 73	24%	10 of 61	2 of 5	6 of 7	17 of 72	1 of 1	0 of 0
1	Matthew Lopez	18 of 43	41%	8 of 31	6 of 8	4 of 4	18 of 43	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Raphael Assunção	20 of 55	36%	11 of 43	3 of 5	6 of 7	20 of 55	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Matthew Lopez	11 of 39	28%	6 of 31	3 of 6	2 of 2	11 of 39	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Raphael Assunção	8 of 26	30%	3 of 19	1 of 2	4 of 5	8 of 26	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Matthew Lopez	5 of 11	45%	2 of 6	3 of 5	0 of 0	5 of 11	0 of 0	0 of 0

View all 19 fights

Rob Font - Fight History

LOSS vs Raul Rosas Jr.

Decision R3 5:00 · UFC 326 · Mar 07, 2026

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Rob Font	0	10 of 31	32%	29 of 50	0 of 1	0%	0	1	0:13
Raul Rosas Jr.	0	8 of 33	24%	47 of 75	16 of 18	88%	0	1	10:05

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Rob Font	7 of 20	35%	8 of 21	0 of 1	0%	0	0:00
1	Raul Rosas Jr.	5 of 22	22%	12 of 29	5 of 6	83%	0	2:11
2	Rob Font	0 of 2	0%	8 of 10	0 of 0	---	1	0:13
2	Raul Rosas Jr.	1 of 5	20%	17 of 23	3 of 3	100%	1	4:07
3	Rob Font	3 of 9	33%	13 of 19	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
3	Raul Rosas Jr.	2 of 6	33%	18 of 23	8 of 9	88%	0	3:47

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Rob Font	10 of 31	32%	6 of 25	2 of 4	2 of 2	10 of 31	0 of 0	0 of 0
Raul Rosas Jr.	8 of 33	24%	5 of 29	0 of 0	3 of 4	8 of 32	0 of 0	0 of 1

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Rob Font	7 of 20	35%	4 of 15	1 of 3	2 of 2	7 of 20	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Raul Rosas Jr.	5 of 22	22%	2 of 18	0 of 0	3 of 4	5 of 22	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Rob Font	0 of 2	0%	0 of 2	0 of 0	0 of 0	0 of 2	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Raul Rosas Jr.	1 of 5	20%	1 of 5	0 of 0	0 of 0	1 of 4	0 of 0	0 of 1
3	Rob Font	3 of 9	33%	2 of 8	1 of 1	0 of 0	3 of 9	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Raul Rosas Jr.	2 of 6	33%	2 of 6	0 of 0	0 of 0	2 of 6	0 of 0	0 of 0

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 8, 2026 (27 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Angelo highlights that Rob Font is a technical striker with no takedown defense, while Raul Rosas is a relentless grappler with fantastic control. He expects Rosas to wrestle and get as many takedowns as he wants, as long as he doesn't try to box with Font. He calls it a Raul showcase.

"This should be a Raul showcase."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Mar 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Big Brady picks Raul Rosas Jr. over Rob Font. He highlights Font's poor takedown defense (43%) and tendency to be controlled on the ground, as seen in the Cory Sandhagen fight. Rosas Jr. has improved cardio and should be able to take Font down and hold him there. Brady expects a decision win for Rosas Jr., as Font has good defensive grappling but won't take risks to get up.

Rosas Jr. by decision

"It's Ral Roses Jr. by decision. I think it's a good match up for him."

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Mar 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Cody leans toward Rosas Jr., citing Font's poor takedown defense and Rosas's youth and improvement. He notes Font's age and slowing down, and expects Rosas to rack up control time and win a decision. He mentions the Chiawei effect as a factor.

"I'm kind of leaning towards Rosas, but a lot of it is like you're just trying to believe."

Bookie Beatdown

Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Mar 6, 2026 (1 day before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Connor picks Rosas, citing Font's poor takedown defense (43% career) and Rosas's relentless wrestling. He notes that Font got taken down seven times by John Matsumoto and still won, but Sandhagen's disciplined wrestling led to a loss. Connor believes Rosas's commitment to wrestling will be enough, despite Rosas's underdeveloped striking and youth. He acknowledges Font's toughness but sees a clear path for Rosas.

Odds: Font opened at +375, now +210; Rosas opened at -500, now -245.

"I am going to take Rosas. I think any fight for Rob font with an opponent who is completely committed to wrestling him, he's going to have a really hard time stopping the takedowns."

MMA Vivisection

Daniel Vreeland Expert Confident picked Mar 3, 2026 (4 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Daniel Vreeland confidently picks Raul Rosas Jr., citing Rob Font's poor takedown defense and getup game, especially as he fatigues. He believes Rosas has matured since his loss to Cristian Rodriguez and will submit Font. Vreeland acknowledges Font's experience but thinks Rosas's grappling will be the difference.

"I'm going to go Rahul Rosas to get the biggest win of his career and pass this gatekeeper test against Rob Font in Vegas."

Half the Battle

Diary of a Pro Gambler Expert Confident picked Mar 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

The host argues that Raul Rosas Jr. is a good bet despite being a favorite because of the extreme age gap (18 years younger), Font's poor takedown defense (42% takedown offense, gave up takedowns to Matsumoto, Figueiredo, Sandhagen), and Font's reliance on volume striking rather than power. He believes Rosas Jr. will stick to Font like glue, outgrapple him, and win two out of three rounds. He notes that Font's windows to strike will be slim due to constant takedown threats.

Implied probability 69%, but host notes he is selective with bets in this odds range; he has a 72% win rate and 5% ROI on 308 bets in this range over 13 years.

"I think it's just going to be very difficult for Rob Font to win this fight because I don't see him being able to keep the fight standing for long enough to make his edge on the feet count."

Diary of a Pro Gambler

Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Mar 1, 2026 (6 days before fight)

Rob Font

James picks Rob Font as an underdog, believing Font is the much better striker who will win the minutes on the feet. He acknowledges Rosas Jr.'s grappling threat but questions whether Rosas can hold Font down for extended periods, citing Font's ability to get back up in recent fights. James also notes that Rosas has never fought at this level and has been reversed in previous fights, making Font the value side. However, he admits Font's chin is a concern and that Rosas could hurt him.

"I'm going to pick Rob Font as the underdog here. I feel like the line should be closer."

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Mar 3, 2026 (4 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Rosas Jr. is persistent with his grappling and will eventually take Font down and control him. Font has been susceptible to wrestlers. Rosas should win a decision, but the line is too high; only play if it drops to -150.

Rosas Jr. by decision

"I expect Rosas Jr. to get that control in the first, second, maybe even third rounds and that should be enough for him to win a decision here."

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Hesitant picked Mar 4, 2026 (3 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

Paul picks Rosas Jr. but with hesitation, noting his takedown ability but concerns about gassing. He thinks Rosas will get early takedowns and control, but Font's get-up game is good. He suggests betting live after seeing if Font can get back up.

"I think Ral Rosa is going to win if I was like forced to play it right now."

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Mar 5, 2026 (2 days before fight)

Raul Rosas Jr.

The MMA Guru picks Raul Rosas Jr., citing his relentless grappling and Font's struggles against grapplers (e.g., Sandhagen). He believes Rosas will take Font down and control him, winning by decision. He mentions the New England Cartel curse.

decision win

"I'm gonna go with Raul Rosas Jr. decision win."

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Hesitant picked Mar 6, 2026 (1 day before fight)

Rob Font

Zane picks Font, noting that Font has been taken down many times but still wins fights. He points out that Rosas's game is limited and that Font's experience and ability to do damage on the feet will be key. Zane acknowledges the risk from Rosas's speed and confidence, but believes Font's toughness and veteran savvy will carry him. He compares it to Font's win over Matsumoto.

Odds: Font +210, Rosas -245.

"I think for me, I have to pick font here. This is, he's 38. Rosas is, and he is a good, fast athlete and he's hyper confident, which counts."

MMA Vivisection

LOSS vs David Martínez

Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Lopes vs. Silva · Sep 13, 2025

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Rob Font	0	49 of 158	31%	49 of 158	0 of 5	0%	0	0	0:59
David Martínez	0	62 of 155	40%	115 of 210	0 of 2	0%	0	0	0:33

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Rob Font	11 of 51	21%	11 of 51	0 of 2	0%	0:20
1	David Martínez	22 of 45	48%	35 of 58	0 of 1	0%	0:00
2	Rob Font	15 of 49	30%	15 of 49	0 of 3	0%	0:39
2	David Martínez	10 of 27	37%	30 of 47	0 of 1	0%	0:30
3	Rob Font	23 of 58	39%	23 of 58	0 of 0	---	0:00
3	David Martínez	30 of 83	36%	50 of 105	0 of 0	---	0:03

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Rob Font	49 of 158	31%	40 of 138	7 of 17	2 of 3	49 of 158	0 of 0	0 of 0
David Martínez	62 of 155	40%	33 of 115	10 of 16	19 of 24	62 of 155	0 of 0	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Rob Font	11 of 51	21%	11 of 48	0 of 2	0 of 1	11 of 51	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	David Martínez	22 of 45	48%	7 of 25	5 of 8	10 of 12	22 of 45	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Rob Font	15 of 49	30%	9 of 37	5 of 11	1 of 1	15 of 49	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	David Martínez	10 of 27	37%	6 of 20	3 of 5	1 of 2	10 of 27	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Rob Font	23 of 58	39%	20 of 53	2 of 4	1 of 1	23 of 58	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	David Martínez	30 of 83	36%	20 of 70	2 of 3	8 of 10	30 of 83	0 of 0	0 of 0

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Sep 7, 2025 (6 days before fight)

Rob Font

Angelo picks Rob Font, despite his age (38) and lack of takedown defense. He says Font is a technical striker with clean hands, good chin, and veteran composure. He thinks David Martinez, stepping up on short notice, probably won't look to wrestle unless losing the striking exchanges, and by then it's too late. He says the over 2.5 is probably rock solid. He also mentions a David Martinez inside the distance decision no action prop.

The over two and a half is probably rock solid here. I might like a David Martinez inside the distance decision, no action might be the play.

"Font is the pick. The over two and a half is probably rock solid here."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

Big Brady picks Font because Martinez is a big step down in competition. He notes Font has fought and lost to elite fighters, but has beaten lower-level opponents. He likes Font's volume, cardio, and experience. He predicts a decision win, though he acknowledges Martinez has power and Font can be hurt.

Decision win

"I'm going to take Font to win this fight by decision."

DFS by the Numbers

Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

Connor picks Rob Font, emphasizing Font's reach advantage and high-output one-two, which will trouble Martínez's in-and-out striking style. He notes that Martínez struggled with the jab against Xavier Franklin and Font is a better version of that. Connor acknowledges Font's age (38) but says his chin hasn't gone yet, and Martínez lacks the power or wrestling to exploit it.

Font opened at -170, dropped to -200, currently -130; Martínez opened at +145, currently +110. Connor says 'it really feels like Font could be a bigger favorite' and attributes the line movement to age bias.

"Martínez is just going to be stuck having Rob Font's fight as far as I can tell."

MMA Vivisection

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)

David Martínez

Martinez has received a lot of love, moving from +180 to +115, and the host agrees. He believes Martinez is closer to his prime, dangerous in striking, treads distance well, and will counter Font's output. He expects Martinez to stuff takedowns and win on the scorecards.

odds movement from +180 to +115

"I think he is way closer to his prime. He's very dangerous in the striking realm. Treads distance very well. Utilizes a good mobile striking game and I think he'll be able to counter the output heavy game of Font."

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Sep 10, 2025 (3 days before fight)

Rob Font

The MMA Guru picks Rob Font, dismissing David Martinez as unproven with wins over low-level opponents. He believes Font's jab and reach will be key, and that Martinez's single-shot explosivity won't trouble Font. He predicts a decision win, possibly 30-27 or 30-26, as Martinez loses composure when peppered with jabs.

Decision win 30-27 or 30-26

"Rob Font is gonna beat David Martinez, I reckon. ... I'm going to go Rob Font decision win 2928 based on the second and third or maybe 30-27."

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Sep 11, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

Zane picks Rob Font, highlighting Font's consistent output, power, and experience against top competition. He notes that Font's losses have come only against elite fighters with superior wrestling or power, and Martínez lacks both. Zane believes Martínez's step up in competition is too large, and Font's one-two and takedown to seal rounds will be decisive.

Font opened at -170, dropped to -200, currently -130; Martínez opened at +145, currently +110. Zane says 'it really feels like Font could be a bigger favorite' and attributes the line movement to age bias.

"This is just a monstrous step up. And as we have seen many times now, Rob Font is not a guy you step up against."

MMA Vivisection

WIN vs Jean Matsumoto

Decision R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Cejudo vs. Song · Feb 22, 2025

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Rob Font	0	95 of 171	55%	113 of 191	0 of 0	---	1	0	1:18
Jean Matsumoto	0	77 of 181	42%	113 of 225	7 of 10	70%	0	0	6:15

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Ctrl
1	Rob Font	21 of 34	61%	27 of 41	0 of 0	---	0	0:26
1	Jean Matsumoto	7 of 19	36%	32 of 49	2 of 3	66%	0	3:40
2	Rob Font	34 of 56	60%	36 of 58	0 of 0	---	1	0:00
2	Jean Matsumoto	29 of 61	47%	35 of 69	5 of 5	100%	0	2:05
3	Rob Font	40 of 81	49%	50 of 92	0 of 0	---	0	0:52
3	Jean Matsumoto	41 of 101	40%	46 of 107	0 of 2	0%	0	0:30

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Rob Font	95 of 171	55%	82 of 157	13 of 14	0 of 0	85 of 157	10 of 14	0 of 0
Jean Matsumoto	77 of 181	42%	43 of 135	9 of 13	25 of 33	69 of 169	8 of 12	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Rob Font	21 of 34	61%	20 of 33	1 of 1	0 of 0	19 of 32	2 of 2	0 of 0
1	Jean Matsumoto	7 of 19	36%	1 of 12	3 of 3	3 of 4	3 of 15	4 of 4	0 of 0
2	Rob Font	34 of 56	60%	28 of 50	6 of 6	0 of 0	34 of 56	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Jean Matsumoto	29 of 61	47%	16 of 43	3 of 4	10 of 14	29 of 61	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Rob Font	40 of 81	49%	34 of 74	6 of 7	0 of 0	32 of 69	8 of 12	0 of 0
3	Jean Matsumoto	41 of 101	40%	26 of 80	3 of 6	12 of 15	37 of 93	4 of 8	0 of 0

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Feb 16, 2025 (6 days before fight)

Jean Matsumoto

Angelo picks Jean Matsumoto, citing his youth, aggression, power, and multiple ways to win. He notes Rob Font is 37 and aging, and while Font's boxing is clean, he can't defend takedowns. He draws a parallel to Calvin Kattar being out-struck by a younger fighter. He is surprised the line moved toward Font.

"Jean Matsumoto is going to be too much, too aggressive, too good of a chin, too much power, too many ways to win."

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Feb 17, 2025 (5 days before fight)

Jean Matsumoto

Big Brady picks Jean Matsumoto, noting that Rob Font's takedown defense and ground game have looked awful recently, citing the Cory Sandhagen and Kyler Phillips fights. He believes Matsumoto, though not the best wrestler, is a good grappler who can take Font down and keep him there. He expects Matsumoto to win by decision, as Font has good submission defense but is content to stay on his back and lose minutes.

by decision

"I got to go Matsumoto here on the feet you know Rob fond is is is absolutely game on the feet this should be a very fun and competitive to fight I'd like the durability a little bit more at …"

DFS by the Numbers

Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

Connor picks Font, agreeing that Matsumoto is uncreative and predictable, while Font is a skilled boxer with good durability. He notes that Matsumoto fights in bursts and leaves gaps, which Font can exploit. Connor also points out that Font has a reach advantage and is a good puncher himself, as seen in the Yadong fight.

"Font should win this as long as he crosses his eyes and dots his teas"

MMA Vivisection

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Jean Matsumoto

The host notes Matsumoto is a short-notice replacement but expects his damaging style and effective striking in the pocket to be too much for Font. He thinks Matsumoto's damage-based approach will win on the scorecards as long as Font doesn't get too far ahead in volume.

"look for matsumoto's damaging style Landing more effective strikes inside the pocket and clearly showcasing that he's being more damaging that should be enough for him to go out there and win this final on the scor cards"

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Feb 21, 2025 (1 day before fight)

Rob Font

The Guru strongly picks Font as an underdog, calling it a no-brainer. He criticizes Matsumoto's undefeated record, noting close fights with Brad Katona and Dan Arreta where he was outgrappled. He highlights Font's experience against top competition, durability (never finished by strikes), and striking menace. He believes Matsumoto lacks KO power and won't submit or outgrapple Font.

great value on Rob font as an underdog

"I think this is a no-brainer Underdog and people are just looking at 16 and0 and thinking he's a monster"

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Feb 20, 2025 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

Zane picks Font because Matsumoto is a limited fighter who fights in bursts and is predictable, while Font has a clear winning formula of jabbing and boxing. He notes that Font is durable, mentally tough, and has a reach advantage. Zane believes Matsumoto would need to hurt Font badly every round to win, which is unlikely given Font's durability.

"Rob font should be able to do to matsamoto what kevin holland did to walking buckly"

MMA Vivisection

WIN vs Kyler Phillips

Decision (unanimous) (29–28, 29–28, 29–28) R3 5:00 · UFC Fight Night: Hernandez vs. Pereira · Oct 19, 2024

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Rob Font	0	61 of 137	44%	65 of 144	0 of 1	0%	0	0	1:19
Kyler Phillips	0	38 of 125	30%	50 of 143	4 of 5	80%	0	0	4:42

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Rob Font	7 of 19	36%	7 of 20	0 of 1	0%	0:29
1	Kyler Phillips	10 of 26	38%	21 of 42	1 of 1	100%	3:34
2	Rob Font	31 of 58	53%	34 of 63	0 of 0	---	0:29
2	Kyler Phillips	14 of 48	29%	15 of 49	2 of 2	100%	0:24
3	Rob Font	23 of 60	38%	24 of 61	0 of 0	---	0:21
3	Kyler Phillips	14 of 51	27%	14 of 52	1 of 2	50%	0:44

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Rob Font	61 of 137	44%	50 of 122	11 of 15	0 of 0	56 of 131	5 of 6	0 of 0
Kyler Phillips	38 of 125	30%	19 of 98	9 of 14	10 of 13	32 of 112	1 of 6	5 of 7

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Rob Font	7 of 19	36%	6 of 17	1 of 2	0 of 0	6 of 18	1 of 1	0 of 0
1	Kyler Phillips	10 of 26	38%	8 of 23	2 of 2	0 of 1	5 of 19	0 of 0	5 of 7
2	Rob Font	31 of 58	53%	23 of 48	8 of 10	0 of 0	28 of 55	3 of 3	0 of 0
2	Kyler Phillips	14 of 48	29%	6 of 38	5 of 6	3 of 4	13 of 44	1 of 4	0 of 0
3	Rob Font	23 of 60	38%	21 of 57	2 of 3	0 of 0	22 of 58	1 of 2	0 of 0
3	Kyler Phillips	14 of 51	27%	5 of 37	2 of 6	7 of 8	14 of 49	0 of 2	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Rob Font vs. Kyler Phillips
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Phillips (-425), Font (+330)

Round 1
Sitting in the co-main event slot is a bantamweight contest that will reestablish or coin a new contender in the talent-rich division. Having lost four of his last five, Font’s (20-8, 10-7 UFC) back is about as against the wall as it gets. As much as Font has largely struggled, Phillips (12-2, 6-1 UFC) has flourished, winner of his last three—albeit with one win in 2022, one in 2023 and the latest in March. This potential passing of the torch encounter will be officiated by referee Keith Peterson, and the 135ers touch ‘em up without a shred of nonsense between them. Font jabs his way directly into action, landing a few punches and setting up more. As Font presses forward, Phillips shoots in and easily hits a takedown, landing in side control and laughing off a guillotine choke defense from the New Englander. Phillips steps over from one side to the other, shifting to half guard as he sets up an arm-triangle choke. When Phillips abandons the choke, he secures side control almost effortlessly. Font turns to the other direction, but he stops doing so when realizing this will give his back up. Phillips controls from on top without unleashing much offense, posturing to the other side to drop down a single elbow. Any time Font tries to scramble, Phillips easily sees it coming and lays into Font with powerful elbows. Font turns over after fighting off a submission setup to explode back to his feet, and Phillips greets him with a spinning wheel kick. Font keeps his guard up and plods forward, scoring an uppercut and swinging a second before shooting in for a double. Font takes Phillips’ back standing, and Phillips breaks out of the position without much concern. Phillips scores a one-two, Font throws back, and the round ends.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Phillips
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Phillips
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Phillips

Round 2
Font stalks out of his corner to engage in the second round, no-selling a leg kick so he can chamber and loose a few hard right hands. Font busts Phillips in the chops with a particularly strong right, and “The Matrix” responds with a shot that plants Font on his back. Font fights much more aggressively to get to his feet, walking up the wall and pressuring Phillips as much as he can. Font trails after Phillips, keeping his guard high and using tight boxing combinations to keep Phillips honest. Font winds up with a right hand that misses the mark, and he lets Phillips throw first so he can counter and tie him up. Font decides to disengage, taking a body kick to the side and chasing after Phillips to make Phillips turn tail and run. Phillips resets and kicks Font in the ribs, and he leans back after a leg kick to get popped with an overhand right. Font digs a body shot, and Phillips escapes and is eating powerful blows while his hands are low and his chin is high in the air. Font stabs his foe in the sternum with his foot, and he ignores a lazy high kick aimed his direction so he can blast Phillips in the face with a right hand. Fond chomps down on his mouthpiece and nails Phillips again, and swelling quickly develops around the Arizonan’s left eye. Phillips keeps on his bike, and Font is a Terminator walking through anything aimed at him so he can tag Phillips with power. A Phillips spin strike fails, as Font keeps his hands high and works the body to open up the head. Phillips tries to tie him up, and he pushes off to fire off a one-two and a spinning back fist. Phillips clinches, and Font wrenches himself away so he can keep the suffocating pace. Phillips gets backed off courtesy of several jabs, and Font utilizes the clinch to wear further on Phillips. Right before the bell, Phillips hits a foot sweep and puts Font on his seat.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Font
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Font
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Font

Round 3
Phillips starts off the round backing away from his opponent, and he lands a leg kick and shoots for a successful takedown. Font hits the ground and starts hand-fighting, eventually settling for muscling back to his feet. Phillips hacks at him with a tomahawking elbow when upright, and Font laughs it off and slugs him in the face with a right hand. Font loads up two more times on heavy rights, and both whoosh past “The Matrix.” Font surges into action behind his punches, landing and turning Phillips around. Phillips steels himself and swing back for vengeance, cracking Font with a right hand and rushing to the side to get a modicum of space. Font will not let him breathe for long, bearing down on him and crushing him against the cage wall. Phillips escapes and ducks an overhand right, kicking the side as he further escapes. Font sticks out a jab, and he sets up an uppercut when Phillips splits the distance to take him down. Font keeps pursuing Phillips fearlessly, getting his calf kicked hard but keeping his balance to stride ever forward. Font’s punches are telegraphed, as are Phillips’ takedowns. The latter is what comes next, but Font stops it in its tracks. Phillips breaks away before eating a strike, and he backpedals and has his left hand up to block Font’s wide right hooks. Phillips clips Font with his own short flurry, and Font tags him with one overhand right to slow him again. Font’s momentum leads to another clinch, and Phillips frames off with his knee. Font loads up time and again on his booming right, and Phillips gives him a little extra something to think about with a wheel kick. Font catches Phillips with a right hand on the way out, and Phillips’ legs are loose but he is still with it. Font keeps after him, watching for a spin kick that comes and advancing to sling final leather. Font stuffs one final takedown, and time expires.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Font (29-28 Font)
Ben Duffy scores the round: 10-9 Font (29-28 Font)
Scottie Smith scores the round: 10-9 Font (29-28 Font)

The Official Result
Rob Font def. Kyler Phillips via Unanimous Decision (29-28, 29-28, 29-28)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Oct 13, 2024 (6 days before fight)

Kyler Phillips

Angelo picks Kyler Phillips, citing the decline of the New England Cartel's takedown defense. He notes Rob Font's vulnerability to wrestling and believes Phillips' diverse striking and wrestling will make Font look old and slow. He expects Phillips to mix in takedowns and win comfortably. He criticizes the New England Cartel's inability to evolve.

"kylo phil pH is going to be fast on the feet he'll mix in some wrestling and he's the pick"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Kyler Phillips

Big Brady picks Kyler Phillips by any method. He notes Font's durability is diminishing, he gets wobbled often, and has poor takedown defense. Phillips can win on the feet or by takedown. He expects Phillips to get it done, possibly by knockout, submission, or decision, given Font's toughness.

"this should be Phillips all day um you I think rob font's you know trending towards being on his way out and I think Phillips can just win this fight wherever it goes"

DFS by the Numbers

Connor Ruebusch Expert Hesitant picked Oct 17, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Kyler Phillips

Connor also picks Phillips but with hesitation, noting that Phillips' early speed and variety are key, but he fades late. He thinks Font could come on strong in the third round if Phillips hasn't put him away. Connor is not fully convinced about Phillips yet, but sees the takedowns and speed as enough to win over three rounds.

"I will take Phillips as well, but I don't know about him yet"

MMA Vivisection

Lucrative James Expert picked Feb 21, 2026 (fight day)

This fight was not discussed in the transcript.

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Kyler Phillips

Font has been on a bad slump. His volume style can be effective, but Phillips will land more significant strikes and mix in takedowns. Phillips will grind out a win on the scorecards.

"I think that will see Carla land the more significant or more significant strikes not just volume wise but at least in ter ter of making it look better for the judges and mix that in with a few takedowns …"

MMA Lock of the Night

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Oct 15, 2024 (4 days before fight)

Kyler Phillips

The Guru picks Phillips over Font, citing Font's susceptibility to being grappled and his age (37). He notes Phillips has explosive takedowns and offensive grappling, as shown against Pedro Munhoz, and trains with Sean O'Malley. He expects Phillips to mix things up and win a decision, though he acknowledges Font is a good boxer.

decision

"I'm going to go with Kyler Phillips over Rob font little bit more Dynamic on the f"

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Oct 17, 2024 (2 days before fight)

Kyler Phillips

Zane picks Phillips, citing his speed and variety early in the fight to stump Font for two rounds. He acknowledges that Phillips tends to fade in the third round, but believes Font's linear style and lack of adaptability will allow Phillips to build an insurmountable lead. He notes that Phillips may also use takedowns, though that could gas him.

Font opened +232, now +333; Phillips opened -275, now -417; Zane says the odds are too wide on Font

"I think I'm gonna take Kyler Phillips"

MMA Vivisection

LOSS vs Deiveson Figueiredo

Decision (unanimous) (30–27, 30–27, 30–27) R3 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Dariush vs. Tsarukyan · Dec 02, 2023

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Deiveson Figueiredo	0	46 of 94	48%	48 of 96	0 of 2	0%	0	0	0:22
Rob Font	0	45 of 74	60%	53 of 84	4 of 7	57%	0	0	4:02

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Deiveson Figueiredo	22 of 37	59%	22 of 37	0 of 1	0%	0:13
1	Rob Font	10 of 20	50%	10 of 20	2 of 3	66%	0:34
2	Deiveson Figueiredo	15 of 33	45%	17 of 35	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Rob Font	15 of 22	68%	15 of 22	1 of 2	50%	1:09
3	Deiveson Figueiredo	9 of 24	37%	9 of 24	0 of 1	0%	0:09
3	Rob Font	20 of 32	62%	28 of 42	1 of 2	50%	2:19

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Deiveson Figueiredo	46 of 94	48%	39 of 85	5 of 6	2 of 3	44 of 92	2 of 2	0 of 0
Rob Font	45 of 74	60%	35 of 64	7 of 7	3 of 3	33 of 60	6 of 7	6 of 7

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Deiveson Figueiredo	22 of 37	59%	20 of 34	2 of 3	0 of 0	22 of 37	0 of 0	0 of 0
1	Rob Font	10 of 20	50%	7 of 17	1 of 1	2 of 2	10 of 20	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Deiveson Figueiredo	15 of 33	45%	12 of 29	1 of 1	2 of 3	13 of 31	2 of 2	0 of 0
2	Rob Font	15 of 22	68%	12 of 19	2 of 2	1 of 1	12 of 18	3 of 4	0 of 0
3	Deiveson Figueiredo	9 of 24	37%	7 of 22	2 of 2	0 of 0	9 of 24	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Rob Font	20 of 32	62%	16 of 28	4 of 4	0 of 0	11 of 22	3 of 3	6 of 7

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

Deiveson Figueiredo vs. Rob Font
BETTING PREVIEW | SCOUTING REPORT | ODDS: Font (-135), Figueiredo (+114)

Round 1
Business picks up with a bantamweight showcase pitting Font (20-7, 10-6 UFC) against Figueiredo (21-3-1, 10-3-1 UFC)—a two-time flyweight champion making the jump to 135 pounds. Figueiredo has not fought anyone other than archrival Brandon Moreno since November 2020.
For more on the Brazilian’s move to the bantamweight division, read “New Digs for Deiveson Figueiredo” from the aforementioned Stein
. Rexroad serves as the referee. Font moves to the center of the cage and stalks the Brazilian from range. He backs up Figueiredo with a clean one-two, shrugs off an attempted clinch and flicks out a few jabs. Figueiredo completes a takedown but cannot keep the New England Cartel rep down. Back on the feet, Font gets to work with his jab. Figueiredo lands an overhand right, ducks into takedown and again allows his opponent to get back to his feet. Font fires a long one-two and moves behind Figueiredo. He lifts the Brazilian off his feet but cannot finish the takedown. Round is still up in the air with a minute to go. Font counters with a right uppercut, and they trade jabs. Figueiredo staggers him with an overhand right but elects not to accelerate. He lures Font into a tie-up along the fence, stalls and then breaks into open space. Figueiredo looking more and more comfortable on the feet. They trad jabs at the close of the round.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo

Round 2
Font gets busy with his jab but allows the Brazilian to close the distance and clinch along the fence. The action stalls briefly. Figueiredo lands a knee south of the equator, resulting in a brief pause. Font readjusts the jewels, and they resume their battle. Figueiredo connects with an uppercut and stays light on his feet. Font shuts off a takedown attempt, then walks into a clean right hand from the Brazilian. He pops Figueiredo with a leg kick and presses forward behind punches. Figueiredo ducks a punch and secures a takedown with two minutes left in the round. Font scrambles free, and they get back to business in the center of the cage. Figueiredo’s output has dwindled here. Font pounds home a jab, then follows with a leg kick. He circled out of a clinch from the Brazilian, marches forward and pumps out his jab. Figueiredo lands a clean two-punch volley and follows with a front kick up the middle.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo

Round 3
Figueiredo moves forward behind a front kick, initiates a tie-up and works for a takedown. Font’s defense holds up. Figueiredo steps into a right hand, then another and engages the Massachusetts native in the clinch. Nothing materializes. Font connects with a right hook to the body. Both men landing in single shots. Figueiredo dazes his counterpart with a wicked left hook, pushes him backward, fires a knee to the body and delivers another left hook upstairs. Font answers with a multi-punch volley, mixes in a jab and whiffs on an elbow over the top. They trade jabs midway through Round 3. Figueiredo ducks into a single-leg and completes a key takedown. He climbs to full mount, drops elbows and hammerfists, maintains his position and gets warned for grabbing the fence. Font reclaims half guard but struggles to control the Brazilian’s posture. With 30 seconds to go, this is slipping away from Font. Figueiredo slides to side control, applies heavy pressure and bleeds the remaining time off the clock.

Sherdog Scores
Brian Knapp scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo (30-27 Figueiredo)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo (30-27 Figueiredo)
Tyler Treese scores the round: 10-9 Figueiredo (30-27 Figueiredo)

The Official Result
Deiveson Figueiredo def. Rob Font—Unanimous Decision (30-27, 30-27, 30-27)

Big Brady Expert Lean picked Nov 28, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Deiveson Figueiredo

Big Brady picks Figueiredo as a dog, citing paths to victory via wrestling or landing big shots. He notes Font's poor takedown defense and get-up game, and thinks Figueiredo can mix in takedowns. He also thinks Figueiredo's power could be a factor, as Font gets rocked often. He predicts a decision win for Figueiredo.

"I'm gonna take figgy here as a dog it's hard to have a ton of confidence in it but I feel like he has some paths here"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Nov 29, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Deiveson Figueiredo

Cody takes Figueiredo as an underdog. He cites Figueiredo's power, multiple paths to victory (knockdowns, takedowns), and Font's poor takedown defense as shown against Cory Sandhagen. He thinks Figueiredo can land bigger shots and mix in wrestling. He also notes Figueiredo moving up to 135 may help his cardio and power translation.

"I'll take the underdog actually in figuro got to take some dogs some places I get didn't have the coonies in the co-main event but I'll take the flyer here"

Bookie Beatdown

Lucrative James Expert Lean picked Nov 30, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

Lucrative James leans towards Rob Font, citing his size, reach, and experience against top bantamweights. He acknowledges Figueiredo's power and guillotine threat, and Font's questionable chin. However, he believes Font should be favored and may look to attack a prop rather than the moneyline due to volatility.

considering attacking a prop

"I think font should be favored he's the much better fighter overall he's more well-rounded"

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Nov 30, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Deiveson Figueiredo

Figueiredo moves up to bantamweight and should carry power and strength. Font has been outgrappled and outdamaged in recent fights, with poor takedown defense and a tendency to lose rounds due to damage. Figueiredo's power and ability to land big shots could lead to a knockout, similar to Font's losses to Aldo and Vera. Font may win minutes, but Figueiredo will win moments and likely finish.

knockout victory predicted

"give me Figaro here fig land the big shots I think I have him down as a finish as well yeah I'm going to save Figaro by knock out"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Nov 29, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Rob Font

Paul sides slightly with Font based on volume. He thinks Font should box Figueiredo up and put up crazy volume over three rounds. He notes Figueiredo's power and Font's chinny history, but believes Font's volume will be enough. He says the line is accurate and he's not too confident.

"I'm going to side ever so slightly with font with that volume say that Davidson you know moving up away class maybe the power isn't going to be as damaging up here but um yeah I'm not too too confident"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Nov 28, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Rob Font

The MMA Guru picks Rob Font by first-round KO, believing Figueiredo's power won't translate up a division and that Font's reach and jab will be decisive. He notes Figueiredo's defensive flaws and recent injuries. He predicts Font will catch Figueiredo early and put him away.

first round KO, first two minutes

"I'm going Rob Font first round KO in the first two minutes... I think Font's going to jab him up and Figueiredo got stung a lot on the chin."

THE MMA GURU

LOSS vs Cory Sandhagen

Decision (unanimous) (50–45, 50–45, 50–45) R5 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Sandhagen vs. Font · Aug 05, 2023

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Cory Sandhagen	0	34 of 84	40%	132 of 211	7 of 7	100%	1	0	19:38
Rob Font	0	9 of 49	18%	25 of 69	1 of 2	50%	0	0	1:08

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Ctrl
1	Cory Sandhagen	8 of 26	30%	27 of 51	2 of 2	100%	0	2:43
1	Rob Font	5 of 22	22%	6 of 24	1 of 1	100%	0	0:23
2	Cory Sandhagen	7 of 15	46%	38 of 54	1 of 1	100%	0	4:41
2	Rob Font	0 of 7	0%	4 of 12	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
3	Cory Sandhagen	10 of 24	41%	27 of 48	1 of 1	100%	0	3:43
3	Rob Font	4 of 10	40%	4 of 11	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
4	Cory Sandhagen	6 of 11	54%	29 of 39	2 of 2	100%	0	4:41
4	Rob Font	0 of 4	0%	2 of 7	0 of 0	---	0	0:00
5	Cory Sandhagen	3 of 8	37%	11 of 19	1 of 1	100%	1	3:50
5	Rob Font	0 of 6	0%	9 of 15	0 of 1	0%	0	0:45

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Cory Sandhagen	34 of 84	40%	30 of 79	2 of 3	2 of 2	10 of 47	0 of 1	24 of 36
Rob Font	9 of 49	18%	5 of 43	2 of 3	2 of 3	8 of 44	0 of 3	1 of 2

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Cory Sandhagen	8 of 26	30%	6 of 23	1 of 2	1 of 1	5 of 19	0 of 1	3 of 6
1	Rob Font	5 of 22	22%	2 of 18	1 of 1	2 of 3	4 of 17	0 of 3	1 of 2
2	Cory Sandhagen	7 of 15	46%	6 of 14	0 of 0	1 of 1	1 of 7	0 of 0	6 of 8
2	Rob Font	0 of 7	0%	0 of 7	0 of 0	0 of 0	0 of 7	0 of 0	0 of 0
3	Cory Sandhagen	10 of 24	41%	9 of 23	1 of 1	0 of 0	2 of 14	0 of 0	8 of 10
3	Rob Font	4 of 10	40%	3 of 9	1 of 1	0 of 0	4 of 10	0 of 0	0 of 0
4	Cory Sandhagen	6 of 11	54%	6 of 11	0 of 0	0 of 0	1 of 3	0 of 0	5 of 8
4	Rob Font	0 of 4	0%	0 of 4	0 of 0	0 of 0	0 of 4	0 of 0	0 of 0
5	Cory Sandhagen	3 of 8	37%	3 of 8	0 of 0	0 of 0	1 of 4	0 of 0	2 of 4
5	Rob Font	0 of 6	0%	0 of 5	0 of 1	0 of 0	0 of 6	0 of 0	0 of 0

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Jul 30, 2023 (6 days before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

Angelo picks Cory Sandhagen, citing his active striking, fluid combinations, and solid BJJ. He notes that Rob Font is a gritty boxer with a solid chin but lacks power and is on the back nine of his career. Angelo believes Sandhagen will make it a true MMA fight by mixing in wrestling, and that the catchweight benefits Sandhagen as the larger fighter. He also points out that Font is stepping up on short notice and that Sandhagen dominated Chito Vera, who is more dangerous than Font.

"Corey's the pick and he's a very very confident pick for me"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Aug 1, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

Big Brady is very confident in Sandhagen, citing Rob Font's age (36), short notice, and accumulated damage from recent fights like the Marlon Vera beating where Font was dropped multiple times. He believes Sandhagen's diverse striking and submission threat will overwhelm Font, and that Font's durability has declined. He predicts Sandhagen will either dominate to a 50-43 decision or become the first to knock Font out, possibly with a head kick or knee.

Sandhagen by KO/TKO or decision; first to knock out Rob Font

"I like San Hagen to finish Rob Fawn and be the first one to knock him out"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Aug 2, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

Cody picks Sandhagen due to his blend of striking and takedowns, plus a full camp preparing for Umar Nurmagomedov. He notes Font's short notice and history of being dropped (five times in two fights) as vulnerabilities. Cody believes Sandhagen can mix in takedowns and strike effectively, though he acknowledges Font's elite striking and volume. He also mentions betting Sandhagen by knockout at +225.

Sandhagen by KO +225; under 120.5 significant strikes on PrizePicks

"I took sandhagen by knockout plus 225... it's the only bet I've made so far"

Bookie Beatdown

Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Aug 2, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

Daniel Levi is confident in Cory Sandhagen, citing his evolution into a well-rounded fighter with improved wrestling and durability. He notes Sandhagen's killer resume and recent performances against Song Yadong and Chito Vera as evidence of his growth. Levi believes Sandhagen's fight IQ and length will be key, and that he will avoid trading in the pocket with Font's dangerous jab. He sees Sandhagen as a future title contender and expects him to shine in the main event.

Mentions the line opened at -200 and is now -340, but does not recommend betting at that price. No prop bets or finishing predictions explicitly stated.

"I think Corey sandag is going to shine in the main event."

Half the Battle

Lucrative James Expert Confident picked Aug 4, 2023 (1 day before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

James is very confident Sandhagen dominates. He thinks Sandhagen can do whatever he wants—strike, takedown, submit, or knock out Font. He believes Font's chin is done and predicts a knockout in the second or third round. He notes Sandhagen's dynamism and one-shot power.

Sandhagen by knockout

"Corey Sandhagen via knockout is my prediction."

Lucrative MMA

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Aug 4, 2023 (1 day before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

Sandhagen has an unorthodox style that blends wrestling and striking, and he's made for five rounds. Font has a great comeback win over Yanez, but Sandhagen's style will be too unorthodox for Font to get going. Sandhagen eats damage well and counters effectively. The fight likely goes the distance, so over 4.5 rounds is my favorite prop, but Sandhagen gets his hand raised. The line is too wide to bet heavily, and there is value on Font at these odds.

over 4.5 rounds, value on Font at current line

"over four and a half will probably be my favorite uh prediction for this fight but I still think that sandhagen gets his hand raise line is just too wide for me to get you know ahead of myself"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Aug 2, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

Paul agrees with Cody, citing Sandhagen's full camp and wrestling advantage. He notes Font's short notice and chin issues, but expects a competitive fight if it goes the distance. Paul leans towards Sandhagen by knockout, though he respects both fighters.

"I mean if this goes 25 minutes I can definitely see it being pretty competitive... but I see San Hagen knocking him out"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Aug 1, 2023 (4 days before fight)

Cory Sandhagen

The host picks Cory Sandhagen confidently, calling him a cerebral, diverse striker in his prime. He believes Sandhagen will pick Font apart with superior technique and defense. He notes Font is 36 and while dangerous, Sandhagen is a better mixed martial artist. He predicts a unanimous decision but does not rule out a head kick knockout. He recommends Sandhagen as a parlay piece and expects the line to rise.

unanimous decision; possible head kick knockout; line opened -256, now -312; parlay piece

"give me Corey sandhagen to take over this fight as it goes on I'll I'll say unanimous decision for Corey sandhagen"

THE MMA GURU

WIN vs Adrian Yañez

TKO (punches) R1 2:57 · UFC 287: Pereira vs. Adesanya 2 · Apr 08, 2023

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Rob Font	1	33 of 75	44%	33 of 75	0 of 1	0%	0	0	0:04
Adrian Yañez	0	25 of 54	46%	25 of 54	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
1	Rob Font	1	33 of 75	44%	33 of 75	0 of 1	0%	0	0	0:04
1	Adrian Yañez	0	25 of 54	46%	25 of 54	0 of 0	---	0	0	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Rob Font	33 of 75	44%	30 of 69	2 of 5	1 of 1	27 of 66	1 of 2	5 of 7
Adrian Yañez	25 of 54	46%	21 of 49	1 of 2	3 of 3	25 of 51	0 of 3	0 of 0

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Rob Font	33 of 75	44%	30 of 69	2 of 5	1 of 1	27 of 66	1 of 2	5 of 7
1	Adrian Yañez	25 of 54	46%	21 of 49	1 of 2	3 of 3	25 of 51	0 of 3	0 of 0

Angelo Bodetti Expert Lean picked Apr 5, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Adrian Yañez

Angelo picks Adrian Yañez but is not highly confident, noting that Rob Font is a clean technical striker who is very live. He thinks Yañez is a younger version of Font, faster and with more power, but Font has a good chin and could win. He warns that this could be a changing of the guard, but Font could also remind everyone he's still elite.

"Jana's the pick but Rob font super live here clean technical Striker"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Hesitant picked Apr 3, 2023 (5 days before fight)

Adrian Yañez

Big Brady picks Adrian Yañez despite wanting to pick Rob Font, due to Font's recent durability issues. He notes Font has taken massive damage in his last two fights and has been dropped repeatedly. He believes Yañez has power and volume, and can win by decision or knockout. He predicts a decision win for Yañez.

"give me honest here I'm gonna say Yana's by ... decision"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Confident picked Apr 5, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Rob Font

Cody agrees with Paul on Font. He points out that Yañez struggled early against Randy Costa, getting dominated in round one before Costa gassed. Cody believes Font's constant jab and long-range strikes will disrupt Yañez's timing and prevent him from landing his power shots. He sees Font's volume as overwhelming and thinks Yañez may struggle to find his rhythm. Cody also notes Font by decision at +200 is worth a look.

Font by decision at +200

"I'm with you I'm with you the knockdowns are a bit of a concern Yanez does hit very very hard but the volume is just overbearing"

Bookie Beatdown

Connor Ruebusch Expert Confident picked Apr 6, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Adrian Yañez

Connor picks Yañez because Font's defensive flaws are well-documented: he has poor footwork after committing to his right hand and relies on a static high guard. Yañez is a fantastic counter puncher who will find openings as Font falls into predictable rhythms. However, Connor notes that Yañez can be a slow starter and may lose the first round if Font's jab takes over. He also mentions that Yañez's high-output style can lead to fatigue, as seen against Davey Grant. Despite these concerns, Connor believes Yañez's sharp countering will eventually catch Font.

Font opened at +126, now +155; Yañez opened at -140, now -175. Connor thinks the odds are getting too wide given Yañez's unproven resume at this level.

"I'll take Yanez as well, but this is a great fight for that. It's a genuine divisional sorting matchup."

MMA Vivisection

Jacob Lines Expert Confident picked Apr 5, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Adrian Yañez

Jacob is extremely high on Adrian Yañez, calling him his guy and predicting he will be champion by 2025. He praises Yañez's beautiful boxing, combinations, and power. He believes Yañez will find the timing and land the more impactful shots, possibly finishing inside the distance. He acknowledges that Yañez can be a slow starter but trusts his dog mentality.

inside the distance

"Adrian Yanez wins this fight I think he sends out inside the distance"

We Want Picks

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Hesitant picked Apr 3, 2023 (5 days before fight)

Rob Font

Font has high output, a great jab, and good footwork, but his durability is questionable after losses to Aldo and Vera. Yañez is a crisp boxer with power, but this is his toughest test. Font's volume and jab could frustrate Yañez, and Font's cardio should hold up. However, if Font's chin is shot, Yañez could land a big shot. I lean Font by decision but with hesitation.

"I'm gonna lean with the veteran here I'm gonna lean with the guy that showcases that he has the style to give a guy like Giannis fits"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Confident picked Apr 5, 2023 (3 days before fight)

Rob Font

Paul likes Rob Font as a plus-money underdog. He questions Yañez's level of competition, noting his wins are over lower-tier fighters and his only step-up against Davey Grant was a close split decision. Paul highlights Font's elite striking volume, footwork, and jab, and notes that Font has gone five rounds with top bantamweights. He acknowledges Font's tendency to get knocked down but believes his volume and experience will overwhelm Yañez.

Font by decision at +200 considered

"this kind of plus money we're going to need dogs and we're in Florida it does feel like Rob Funk and outwork almost anybody in the division"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 8, 2023 (fight day)

Adrian Yañez

The MMA Guru picks Adrian Yañez to win by decision. He expects Font to have success early with his jab and takedowns, but Yañez will weather the storm and start finding his range. He predicts Yañez will hurt Font badly in rounds two and three, with moments of near-finishes, but Font will survive to the final bell. He compares it to a Marlon Vera-esque performance.

"I'm gonna go with Adrian Yanez by decision"

THE MMA GURU

Zane Simon Expert Confident picked Apr 6, 2023 (2 days before fight)

Adrian Yañez

Zane picks Yañez because Font's defensive issues are severe: he gets hit cleanly in every fight and has been knocked down repeatedly. Yañez is a sharp counter puncher who will exploit Font's tendency to leave himself open after throwing the right hand. Zane acknowledges that Yañez may start slow and lose the first round, but he expects Yañez to figure out Font's rhythm and land big shots. He also notes that Font's chin is a major concern, as even if Yañez fades, he only needs one clean shot to change the fight.

Font opened at +126, now +155; Yañez opened at -140, now -175. Zane thinks the odds are getting too wide.

"If you can see one fighter clearly winning a round of a fight and the other rounds being close, pick the clear round winner."

MMA Vivisection

LOSS vs Marlon Vera

Decision (unanimous) (48–47, 49–46, 49–46) R5 5:00 · UFC on ESPN: Font vs. Vera · Apr 30, 2022

Totals

Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Sub. Att	Rev.	Ctrl
Marlon Vera	0	271 of 516	52%	273 of 520	1 of 2	50%	0	0	0:18
Rob Font	3	159 of 283	56%	167 of 291	0 of 0	---	0	0	2:05

Per Round

Rd	Fighter	KD	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Total Str.	TD	TD %	Ctrl
1	Marlon Vera	0	57 of 100	57%	57 of 100	0 of 0	---	0:00
1	Rob Font	0	26 of 46	56%	26 of 46	0 of 0	---	0:00
2	Marlon Vera	0	51 of 97	52%	51 of 97	0 of 1	0%	0:00
2	Rob Font	1	27 of 52	51%	30 of 55	0 of 0	---	0:23
3	Marlon Vera	0	71 of 123	57%	71 of 123	1 of 1	100%	0:18
3	Rob Font	1	37 of 71	52%	39 of 73	0 of 0	---	0:33
4	Marlon Vera	0	42 of 89	47%	44 of 93	0 of 0	---	0:00
4	Rob Font	1	36 of 56	64%	39 of 59	0 of 0	---	1:09
5	Marlon Vera	0	50 of 107	46%	50 of 107	0 of 0	---	0:00
5	Rob Font	0	33 of 58	56%	33 of 58	0 of 0	---	0:00

Significant Strikes

Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
Marlon Vera	271 of 516	52%	199 of 436	48 of 56	24 of 24	256 of 496	15 of 20	0 of 0
Rob Font	159 of 283	56%	95 of 205	22 of 31	42 of 47	133 of 246	4 of 4	22 of 33

Significant Strikes Per Round

Rd	Fighter	Sig. Str.	Sig. Str. %	Head	Body	Leg	Distance	Clinch	Ground
1	Marlon Vera	57 of 100	57%	38 of 81	14 of 14	5 of 5	52 of 92	5 of 8	0 of 0
1	Rob Font	26 of 46	56%	5 of 21	7 of 10	14 of 15	26 of 46	0 of 0	0 of 0
2	Marlon Vera	51 of 97	52%	36 of 81	9 of 10	6 of 6	48 of 93	3 of 4	0 of 0
2	Rob Font	27 of 52	51%	17 of 40	4 of 5	6 of 7	22 of 43	0 of 0	5 of 9
3	Marlon Vera	71 of 123	57%	53 of 102	12 of 15	6 of 6	70 of 121	1 of 2	0 of 0
3	Rob Font	37 of 71	52%	29 of 59	4 of 7	4 of 5	25 of 55	2 of 2	10 of 14
4	Marlon Vera	42 of 89	47%	33 of 78	5 of 7	4 of 4	39 of 86	3 of 3	0 of 0
4	Rob Font	36 of 56	64%	20 of 36	3 of 5	13 of 15	27 of 44	2 of 2	7 of 10
5	Marlon Vera	50 of 107	46%	39 of 94	8 of 10	3 of 3	47 of 104	3 of 3	0 of 0
5	Rob Font	33 of 58	56%	24 of 49	4 of 4	5 of 5	33 of 58	0 of 0	0 of 0

Play-by-Play

View on Sherdog

SHERDOG BETTING PREVIEW ODDS : Font (-140), Vera (+110) Rob Font (138.5: Missed Weight) vs. Marlon Vera

Round 1
We have now reached the main event, which takes place in a catchweight instead of a standard weight category as Font (19-5, 9-4 UFC) missed weight by 2.5 pounds ahead of his marque pairing against “Chito” Vera (18-7-1, 12-6 UFC). These two are the only ranked competitors that set foot in the cage this evening, but a win for Font would arguably mean less as he could not reach the bantamweight limit. Apologetic for this error, Font offers a glove touch as the two stand before gold-standard referee Jason Herzog, and Vera accepts it with a smile as he is amped up for his first UFC main event. Vera is crouched over in his corner when the fight begins, and Font does a tour of the cage while waiting for him to stand up. Vera does do so, and he throws a front kick to start things off. Font starts up with his staple jabs, and Vera replies with a calf kick. Font subsequently counters it with an overhand right, and they back off to kick one another in the legs. Font strings together a pair of one-twos, and Vera responds with a thudding body kick to the guard. Font continues to work the jab, and he chains a solid boxing combination together that knock Vera back. A big uppercut from Font reddens the nose, and he knees Vera in the chin when Vera bends over. Vera gets a little space and lets loose with low kicks, and Font continues peppering him with jabs. Font steps in with an elbow, and Vera responds with a powerful leg kick. Vera closes in and pins several uppercuts on the chin before Vera pushes off and reaches out with a front kick that is just shy of the face. Font rips the body, and when Vera advances, he goes after another crisp uppercut. Font tattoos Vera’s heavily tattooed head and body with jabs, and Vera slips a couple of punches and counters with a front kick. Font nails his man with an uppercut again, and Vera staggers back and gathers himself to absorb a few punches high and low. Font put three punches together as Vera guards up and circles on the outside, and he commits to his calf kick when Font gives him a moment to breathe. Font absorbs another leg kick, and he loads up on punches when Vera tries to kick his lead calf once more. Font walks into a punch, and he blocks a loud body kick that impacts off his arms. Font winds up with an uppercut after a jab, intercepting Vera coming in. The uppercut continues to find its home as Font targets it repeatedly, and Vera is not able to read it and tries to block them, but they still get through. Vera kicks the midsection, and when he comes in, Font meets him with a knee and his own low kick, The first round ends, and the bantamweights tensely stare down one another after the horn.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Font
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Font
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Font

Round 2
The fighters meet in the middle to start off the second round, and they bounce closer together only to back off before engaging. Font jabs, follows it with a right and connects with a clean left to back Vera up. Font puts the ball of his foot on Vera’s chest, and he steps in with a hacking elbow that glances off Vera’s head. Vera fires off a front kick, and Font catches it and pushes Vera back. Vera, with his leg in the air, jumps with his other to kick Font a few times. Font delivers a big elbow that make Vera mockingly show that he is hurt, and he subsequently spins with a back kick to the body. Font reels from the kick and has to rebound off the fence, and Vera kicks the body again. Vera is able to counter a few punches, and Font begins to chain jabs into punches effectively as Vera’s face starts to turn red. “Chito” rips the body to make Font’s guard drop, and Font kicks his leg as a result. Vera loads up on a heavier one of his own, and Vera blocks an oncoming salvo of punches. Font has a few punches blocked, and Vera sticks his tongue out at him. As he does, a piston-like jab connects and knocks a surprised Vera back. Vera walks into another jab as Vera walks him down, but Vera does get off a leg kick. Font throws five punches in a row, and a huge body kick from Vera bends Font over. Font recovers and leans on his boxing to back Vera up, but “Chito” rallies and kicks him in the gut with a front kick. Vera works the leg with a kick, and Font strides through it to land a few punches and ends a combination with a solid left hand. Font steps through a series of punches with a knee up the middle, and Vera ricochets off the fence and marches his man down. Font kicks high, and the kick glances off the shoulder. Font carries on jabbing, and he works a right hand to the body in the midst of a punching chain. Vera walks him down and cracks him with a left hand, and Font is rocked badly and drops to his knees. Font instinctively goes after a single, and Vera bowls him over and unloads several brutal elbows. Font hangs on to the bell, and he springs right back up and goes to his corner.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Vera
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Vera
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vera

Round 3
“Chito” is so fired up to start off the round, he is physically pulled back a few times by Herzog. Despite this aggressive intention, Font is the one who strikes first, jabbing his way in before shooting for a takedown. Vera scrambles and gets to his knees when dragged down, and he turns his opponent around to the fence and starts working the sides with punches and knees. Font pushes off with an elbow to break, and Vera puts everything into a head kick. Even with the kick blocked, it still has enough impact to shake Font. Font is quick to gather his thoughts and start working his uppercut, and Vera takes a front kick that goes low on the cup. Vera shrugs at Herzog when Herzog asks if he is alright, and the fight continues as they trade powerful blows. A thumping leg kick from the Ecuadorian gives Font some pause, and Font responds with a body kick. Vera steps through with a left hand, and he just misses a straight left hand across the bow. Font plants several punches on the guard, doing enough to take Vera’s focus away so he can drill a kick to the gut. Vera absorbs a leg kick, and Vera allows this so he can counter with a left hand that knocks Font back a few steps. The Bostonian marches forward, jabbing effectively and just getting up a block when a high kick aims at it. Vera unloads with a right hand, and Font greets him with several punches in a line of blows. Vera takes a clean elbow on the side of the head and barely flinches, and he kicks Font in the side. Font responds with a few punches to the body, leading Vera to tie him up. “Chito” separates and starts working kicks to the leg and side, and he slips a punch to throw one back. Font absorbs four flush punches without batting an eye, and he counters Font with a left to the midsection and a kick to the same spot. Font puts several punches together as Vera bounces off, and he splits the guard with a left. Font connects with a big left to the body, and Vera lifts up a knee that knocks Font off of his feet. Font climbs back up and wobbles back, only for Vera to chase him down and elbow him several more times. Herzog asks Font to keep fighting and moving, and Vera unleashes a fury of elbows right to the horn.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Vera
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Vera
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vera

Round 4
Font has gathered his thoughts between rounds, and even with swelling and damage on his face from the concussive blows, he is ready to continue and starts off with jabs. Vera kicks the body, and he gets knocked back with a series of punches. Vera fights through the oncoming blows to give back his own, and he jumps in the air with a knee that is barely blocked in time. They trade one after the other, with Font preferring to touch while Vera is loading up on strikes. Font pins three uppercuts right on the chin, and he follows it with a one-two as chants for “’Chito’” rain down in the building. Font chases him down and uploads, and Vera ties him up and gets kneed. Vera elbows on the break to cut Font, but the Boston native does not even register this as he stalks Vera down. Font considers a takedown before bailing on it to let his boxing speak for himself. Vera rolls with the strikes that come at him, dancing back and sliding out of the way. Vera gets in a left, and Font is a bloody mess but no less active. Font opens up with jabs and one-twos, and Vera is circling away as his volume has diminished. Vera winds up with a side kick that connects as flush as it could, knocking Font back and down to the mat. Vera goes after him to try to finish him, and he gets kicked off as Font lays on his back aiming upkicks. Vera kicks the leg from above, while Font is still getting his wits about him. Vera is letting his foe of the hook, and eventually Herzog intervenes to stand Font up. Font walks through a spinning heel kick that soars at him to throw hands, and Vera spams another that similarly is inaccurate. Font bounces around, and he absorbs a pushing kick to his knee. Vera winds up on a body kick, and the fourth round ends. Vera walks back to his corner, laughing all the way.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Vera
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Vera
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vera

Round 5
Battered and bruised, swollen and sore, Font is hanging in there and cleared to continue. Vera is excited to reach the fifth round in this contest, and he walks straight into a left to the body when they begin to fight. Font has his jab reach out, and he misses an overhand right as Vera slides out of harm’s way. Font comes after him and elbows him on top of the head, and Vera looks at him quizzically and slaps Font in the face with his open hand like a Diaz brother. Font is riled up, and he lands six heavy punches that knock Vera back up to the wall. Vera scores a single leg kick, and he backs away as Font walks him down. Font keeps his hands busy, and he takes a solid jab on the face. Vera tries to back him off with a side kick, and Font is not slowing as he again backs Vera to the wire with his punches. They trade low kicks, and start to put power into their punches. Vera loads up as Font stalks after him, and he has a body kick that stuns Font for a second. Like a Terminator, Font keeps going, and a front kick blasts him in the face. Font strings several punches together despite the serious level of damage on his face, and he makes Vera take a step back when he lands a front kick. Vera counters Font coming in with a left, and he smacks Font with a left as Font leads into a combination. “Chito” snaps out a jab that makes Font shake his hands out, and he kicks the lead leg a pair of times. Font gets hurt from a punch, causing him to turn around for a second, and Vera begins to showboat and point. Font steels himself and powers ahead, chasing Vera around and absorbing punches while attacking. Font nails Vera with an uppercut, leading Vera into a dance as Vera signals that he is fine. Font does not fall for anything, and instead splits the guard with a right hand. Font bites down on his mouthpiece and throws hands to the head and body, and Vera aims another standing hook kick slash side kick that cracks into Font’s dome. Font is rattled once more from the powerful strike, and he wobbles back to the wall to try to recover for the waning seconds. Instead of going for a finish, Vera walks away to celebrate, pointing in the air and even turning his back on Font at one point. Font cannot reach him as time elapses, and this thriller comes to an end. Both bantamweights raise their stock after 25 minutes of bloody, chaotic battle. An emotional Vera thanks his team and invites his family into the cage after the fight, and declares that he will be a world champion and will bring the belt back to his home country of Ecuador. With that, the uneven ESPN card wraps up, with the night ending in style after that five-rounder in the books. Next week, the UFC will travel to Arizona, with a fantastic pay-per-view offering bringing a pair of highly anticipated title fights and some other great scraps like Michael Chandler vs. Tony Ferguson. We will be there for it, and we hope you are too.

Sherdog Scores
Jay Pettry scores the round: 10-9 Font (48-47 Vera)
Mike Sloan scores the round: 10-9 Font (48-47 Vera)
Tristen Critchfield scores the round: 10-9 Vera (49-46 Vera)

The Official Result
Marlon Vera def. Rob Font via Unanimous Decision (48-47, 49-46, 49-46)

Angelo Bodetti Expert Confident picked Apr 24, 2022 (6 days before fight)

Rob Font

Angelo picks Rob Font, citing his cleaner boxing and composed style. He believes Font's accuracy and volume will mirror his success against Jose Aldo, but this time Font will get the win. He notes Vera's ability to make fights ugly and his iron chin, but thinks Font is too well-rounded to get caught in a brawl. He loves the -150 odds and plans a moneyline bet on Font.

moneyline bet at -150 odds

"I like rob font to mirror some of the success he had against jose aldo with his accuracy and his volume but this time i think he's going to get the win"

We Want Picks

Big Brady Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2022 (5 days before fight)

Marlon Vera

Big Brady picks Marlon Vera as a dog, citing Vera's cardio advantage in a five-round fight and his ability to grow into the fight. He notes that Vera lands bigger shots and has a ground game advantage, while Font may win the first round but will fade. Brady predicts a late finish, possibly by submission, as the damage accumulates.

late finish, submission

"i like vera here i really do like vera as a dog... i'm gonna take marlon vera to win i'm gonna take him to win by a submission"

DFS by the Numbers

Cody Saftic Expert Lean picked Apr 27, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Marlon Vera

Cody picks Marlon Vera as a live underdog, citing Vera's slow-starting but strong-finishing style. He believes Vera can lose the first couple rounds but come on strong late, similar to his fight against Frankie Edgar. Cody notes Vera's grappling advantage and ability to take Font down, as Font gave up takedowns to Cody Garbrandt. He suggests live betting Vera after the first round for better odds.

Live betting after first round recommended

"i think i'm going to lean underdog in the main event so give me with marlon vero"

Bookie Beatdown

Daniel Levi Expert Confident picked Apr 28, 2022 (2 days before fight)

Marlon Vera

Daniel Levi picks Marlon Vera, citing his durability and ability to take over in later rounds. He notes that Vera's fights often start in round three, where he looks world-class, and that his cardio from running 13 miles a day will be a factor in a five-round fight. Levi acknowledges Rob Font's superior boxing but believes Vera can create chaos and make it a dirty fight, similar to the Pedro Munoz blueprint. He is concerned about Vera eating shots early but trusts his recovery. He took two units at +130.

Bet 2 units at +130 moneyline

"as a betting man as someone who took the plus 130 on chito here i can just start this fight at round three"

Half the Battle

MMA Lock of the Night Expert Confident picked Apr 28, 2022 (2 days before fight)

Rob Font

The host picks Rob Font, citing his superior output and jab. He believes Font's volume and technical striking will outwork Vera over five rounds, especially since Vera is a slow starter. He notes Font's reach advantage and ability to stay on the outside, and doubts Vera has one-punch knockout power to change the fight. He expects a decision win for Font.

Font by decision +170, fight goes to decision -150

"i lean the rob font side i do think his output numbers are going to be way higher than vera"

MMA Lock of the Night

Paul Shaughnessy Expert Lean picked Apr 27, 2022 (3 days before fight)

Rob Font

Paul leans towards Rob Font based on volume and activity, noting Font's jab and boxing should outwork Vera over five rounds. He acknowledges Vera's power in kicks and potential grappling edge but doesn't trust Vera's wrestling to secure takedowns. Paul is concerned about Font's history of getting knocked down, as seen against Jose Aldo, which could cost him rounds. He hasn't bet the fight yet but sides with the numbers.

"i'm gonna lean towards font but it's a dicey fight and i'm won't be shocked if it goes either way"

Bookie Beatdown

The MMA Guru Expert Confident picked Apr 25, 2022 (5 days before fight)

Marlon Vera

The Guru picks Marlon Vera as an underdog, citing Vera's size and physicality as key advantages. He believes Rob Font struggles against pressure and big opponents who can muscle him around. The Guru predicts Font will win the first two rounds, but Vera will take over in the later rounds, eventually securing a submission via d'arce choke in round four or five. He notes Vera's youth (29) and ability to absorb damage, while questioning Font's power after making Cody Garbrandt's chin look okay.

Vera by submission (d'arce choke) in round 4 or 5; Vera is an underdog

"i'm gonna have to go with marlon vera here over rob font i think rob fonte's gonna have some success early on... i think i'm gonna have to go with marlon vera getting like a darsh choke submission in round …"

THE MMA GURU

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